Newbie surfers may want to start with a surfing SUP to get them used to standing on the water. Surfing SUPs are designed to handle more gentle waves so you can get a hang of your balance without getting swept away in more intense waters. After much research, we located some of the best SUPs for surfing available and have listed them below for you to look at.
What is the Best SUP For Surfing?
To find the Best SUP For Surfing for you we have used several of surfing SUPs and selected the absolute top 7 sups for surfing.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. FITPULSE Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28 pounds (12.7 kg) Size: 120 x NaNNaN inches (304.8 x NaNNaN cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Plastic, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Accessories included: pump for quick inflation, an emergency repair kit, a storage bag |
The FITPULSE Inflatable Sup is a board that’s advertised as being suitable for adult beginners. It’s made from lightweight but durable plastic materials, so it won’t tire you out when you’re carrying it on those trips to the beach. It has a non-slip deck for improved safety and control. It boasts a wide design, so you’ll find that it has good stability out on the water, but is still easy to steer, because it also includes a triple bottom panel fin system for added maneuverability. The package includes a pump for easy inflating, plus an emergency repair kit and a storage bag.
Pros
- Good maximum carrying capacity the board is rated for 330 pounds,
- Company promises an excellent customer service team to help out,
- Eye catching graphics design, so you’ll look good on the water,
- Soft design for reduced rider soreness due to sitting or standing
Cons
- Manufacturing defects can appear in leaking air valves,
- Some customers have received their board without the pump
2. Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board For All Skills
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 30.2 pounds (13.7 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: PVC Accessories included: Air Gauge |
The Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is definitely one of the big boys in the realm of inflatable SUPs. Constructed from the highest quality military grade materials, this board has a built in drop-stitch core that’s ultra-light, for improved comfort and resilience, making it almost indestructible. Its 11 foot length and 33 inch width will certainly offer plenty of room to move around when you’re riding the waves on this board. Its got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 352 pounds. Accessories also include a pump for easy inflating, a carry bag, and a paddle.
Pros
- This model includes an air gauge to assist in getting the fill psi right,
- Their great sales service policy means a safer purchase for you,
- The deck has a non-slip pattern to keep you safer when it’s wet,
- Easy set up and assembly right out of the box
Cons
- Customers sometimes find damaged parts out of the box,
- Some people have reported not receiving a pump in the box
3. FunWater All Skill Levels SUP Inflatable Ultra-Light
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 20.39 pounds (9.25 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: 1×inflatable paddle board, 1×adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×waterproof phone bag, 1×leash. |
The FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP might be your next choice for a light-weight SUP. It sports military-grade double wall PVC and is up to 35% lighter than similar boards in its class. Excellent wear resistance and toughness are sure to provide longer life. These boards are large at 11 feet long and 33 inches wide, giving them very good stability on the waves. Its got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 330 pounds. This model also has an ergonomic handle design to facilitate easier inflation and deflation. A built-in pressure gauge is handy and will let you know when the inflation psi is just right.
Pros
- A multi-function elastic tie string is included for convenience,
- An ultra-large backpack is also included for easier carrying,
- The package also has the pump, phone bag and a safety leash,
- 1 year warranty on some parts, and a 30 no-hassle return service
Cons
- Customers have reported that the air pump may be defective,
- Some accessories may not be included exactly as promised
4. Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.53 pounds (14.3 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: collapsible length adjustable alloy floating paddle which will never sink, double action hand pump with psi gauge, 1 big removable fin for better balance, paddle board ankle safety leash, 5L water proof dry bag for essentials such as cell phone and keys, detailed sup manual, repair kit and a premium comfortable sup backpack to hold everything. |
The Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a full-sized piece of equipment with a higher than average weight carrying capacity and large dimensions, well suited for larger riders. Having an extra-wide design gives this board greater stability in water, which means it’s easier to learn on than a narrow board. These paddleboards are inflatable, so storage is very compact and simple. The lightweight design makes it easy for lifting and carrying around. This SUP is advertised to be 20% lighter than competitors’ similarly sized models. Made from military-grade materials, these paddleboards have a nonslip deck that offers greater safety and control for the rider.
Pros
- 1 year manufacturers warranty is included at no added cost,
- Includes full accessory kit to get you paddling sooner,
- Adjustable floating alloy paddle won’t sink when you drop it,
- Designer appearance to simulate the grainy wooden look
Cons
- The anti-slip deck padding may be easily damaged or dislodged,
- The removable fin design can be hard to use due to jamming
5. SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Universal SUP
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 19.6 pounds (8.89 kg) Size: 120 x 30 x 6 inches (304.8 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: PVC Accessories included: including a coiled ankle cuff safety leash, oar, manual air pump, and convenient storage bag |
Measuring up at a compact 10 feet long and 30 inches in width, the Serenlife Inflatable Standup Paddleboard is a likely choice for youths or smaller adults. This SUP boasts a triple bottom panel fin design that will enhance its speed, steering and overall handling capability, especially useful for younger riders. The deck is complimented by a non-slip surface that is also soft, to reduce riding soreness and reduce the chance of injury, in the event of a fall. Its inflatable design means easier carrying during those walks to the beach, not to mention the space you’ll save on storage, compared to a hardboard.
Pros
- Stylish and attractive looking design to keep you looking sharp,
- Easy to assemble out of the box to get you paddling sooner,
- Light to carry at under 20 lbs it won’t leave you fatigued,
- Inflates easily with the manual pump that’s included
Cons
- The paddle is of a lower grade than comparable SUPs,
- The hand pump has design issues and may fail early
6. SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 17.6 pounds (7.98 kg) Size: 126 x 33 x 6 inches (320 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Aluminum, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: Board, adjustable aluminum paddle, high pressure pump, travel backpack, coil leash, waterproof bag, and 3 removable fins. |
The FunWater ultra-light 10.5ft x 33inch SUP is a lighter weighing option among the contenders for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over greater distances. Its ultra-durable construction provides reliability and peace of mind, while promising years of fun on the water. FunWater ultra-light’s size and its 330 pound maximum weight rating suggest the space and carrying capacity to accommodate more than one rider, in case friends come along. Comes with a selection of 3 removable fins to help tune the board’s balance to the rider’s preference. Accessories also include a high pressure pump for easy inflating, a waterproof backpack, and an adjustable aluminum paddle.
Pros
- Their effective customer support system results in fewer hassles and more fun,
- Inflatable design means less space needed for storage,
- Made with ultra-durable materials for long and reliable life,
- Includes your choice of 3 fins plus other accessories
Cons
- Filling to the specified psi can be a little tricky for some,
- A repair kit is advertised as included, but some customers find it is missing
7. MAXFLO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board With Non-Slip Deck
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28.88 pounds (13.1 kg) Size: 126 x 32 x 6 inches (320 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Non-Slip Accessories included: coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Upgraded Aluminum paddle, center fin, manual air pump, storage backpack, extra rowing wooden paddle and cell phone waterproof protector |
Introducing the MAXFLO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board With Non-Slip Deck, suitable for a wider stance. It’s made from lightweight but durable plastic materials, so it won’t tire you out when you’re carrying it on those trips to the beach. It has a non-slip deck for improved safety and control. Its 10.5 foot length and 32 inch width will certainly offer plenty of room to move around when you’re riding the waves on this board. Having an extra-wide design gives this board greater stability in water, which means it’s easier to learn on than a narrow board. These paddleboards are inflatable, so storage is very compact and simple.
Pros
- Includes full accessory kit to get you paddling sooner,
- Light to carry at under 20 lbs it won’t leave you fatigued,
- Inflates easily with the manual pump that’s included,
- Includes an upgraded aluminum paddle to get started
Cons
- Inflatable paddle boards cannot be left in the sun long,
- Some will find this board heavy, since it weighs over 20 pounds
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 7 Best SUP For Surfing, our absolute top pick is FITPULSE Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults.
If you have the money, you can go for Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board For All Skills which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the FunWater All Skill Levels SUP Inflatable Ultra-Light.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying sups for surfing
Shape
If you want to go for long-distance paddles, the touring shape is the best. It has a pointed nose which is more efficient and has better performance. You’ll use fewer strokes with less effort, moving straighter with speed. However, this board is not ideal for beginners as it is hard to maneuver.
The other shape is a round nose. For the all-around paddleboard. The shape is wider, making it easier to maneuver and balance. The width also makes them not ideal for long distances and have no speed—best for sup surfing, rivers, and lakes.
Surfing stability
Your board should be no wider than 30-31 inches for surfing stability. Wider than that won’t work well for you when you encounter those mushy waves. Your surfboard should not be too heavy. If you can’t carry the surfboard to the water, then it’s too heavy for you. Go for a smaller surfboard than the one you usually use for cruising or touring.
The shape you choose should be one for a surfboard, not like a canoe or a floater.
Safety
For your safety, have a personal floatation device, like a safety jacket. Ensure your board is very safe by ensuring that no repairs are needed. If you are going to use an inflatable board, it should be inflated to the right pressure.
It will help if you also carry a mobile phone in a waterproof case in case of an emergency. Have all your essentials in a dry bag. Carry a puncture repair kit if you are using an inflatable board. Make sure you are dressed for the weather and wearing the correct gear.
Storage and portability
The paddleboard should be cleaned with fresh water and thoroughly dried before storage. Don’t expose your paddleboard to dirt, sand, and salt to avoid wear and tear. Avoid direct sunlight for your inflatable board for a long time. You should keep it indoors after use in a cool, dry place. You can store your board inflated or deflated, whichever you prefer. But if you won’t deflate fully, release a bit of the pressure to prevent damage from the air if it gets warm. Don’t put heavy things on your inflated board to avoid destroying the rocker. Remove the bords fin to avoid getting damaged.
Weight
When choosing a paddleboard, consider your weight and the weight of anyone or anything you’ll be bringing on board. Take the total weight and that is what you’ll use. Take the total weight now, not what you’ll be after losing a few pounds.
For beginners, you can multiply your combined total weight by one and then again by 1.4. Intermediate, you can take your entire weight and multiply by 0.8 to 1. Touring total body weight multiplied by 1 to 1.1.
Questions and Answers About sups for surfing
Is sup surfing easier than surfing?
In a few words, yes it is. You cannot successfully use a SUP for traditional ocean surfing because they simply are not made for it. A surfboard is designed for taking tight corners, as well as other fundamental differences. The surfing you’ll do on a SUP is of the shallow water variety, where the waves are much more gentle, hence a much easier overall experience.
How far do people paddleboard?
Usually, people paddleboard for reasons related to leisure and exercise, and so distances traveled can vary a great deal depending on many things. For example, someone floating down a river might travel much farther than paddling on a lake. The reality is that people might traverse less than one mile, or they might go as far as twenty miles or more in a day of boarding.
Can two people ride the same paddleboard?
The deciding factor here is the board itself. Two people can certainly ride on a paddleboard, much the same as two people can share the same bicycle seat. However, out on the open water, things can be a bit trickier, and several factors could indeed affect your overall experience or even your safety. Always consider the size and weight ratings of the board before venturing out. The paddleboard should be properly rated to withstand at least the full weight of both riders.
How should a beginner stand up paddle board?
You’ll want to start off in water that’s shallow, to make it easier to climb on the board, but also deep enough to keep the fin from bottoming out. Concentrate on maintaining your balance for the first while, which will help you control your own motion on top of the board. If standing up right away feels like the wrong idea, then just try resting on your hands and knees at first until your balance improves.
