If you’re looking to start surfing, starting with a surfing SUP may be a great start. Surf SUPs are a bit shorter and heavier than surfboards, and are designed for you to gently glide over waves rather than ride strong ones. They are best used on stable water rather than on strong waves. To get you started on your new surf paddling journey, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best-rated surf SUPs available below.
What is the Best Surf SUP?
To find the Best Surf SUP for you we have used several of sups for surfing and selected the absolute top 8 surf SUPs.
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. 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
2. 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
3. FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.31 pounds (14.2 kg) Size: 126 x 31 x 6 inches (320 x 78.7 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: Board, Paddle, a coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Pump, And A Premium Carry Bag |
The FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a lighter weight option among the competitors for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over longer distances. Its ultra-durable construction provides reliability and peace of mind, while promising years of enjoyment out on the water. FBSPORT’s Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board’s size and its 100 kilogram maximum weight rating suggest the space and carrying capacity to accommodate more than one smaller rider, in case friends join you. Comes with a removable fin, as well as 2 fixed fins to help tune the board’s balance to the rider’s preference. Accessories also include a pump for easy inflating, a carry bag, and a paddle.
Pros
- A professional and responsible customer service system to help you,
- Easier handling characteristics makes it great for smaller riders,
- Non slip soft deck is suitable for riders of all skill levels,
- Bottom design is made for faster gliding through the water
Cons
- Some people have stated that the air pump is not high quality,
- The paddle does not seem to have the best floatation ability
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. 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
6. 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
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
8. FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP for All Skill Levels
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28.22 pounds (12.8 kg) Size: 120 x 30 x 6 inches (304.8 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: Flatwater Materials: Plastic and / or PVC Accessories included: Air pump, padded seat, paddle, air gauge |
We’re reviewing the FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP for All Skill Levels, for your comparison shopping. It’s a board that’s touted to be good for all skill levels. This one’s a mid sized model, standing just 10 feet in length and 30 inches across, so it might be better for not-so-large riders. Also, it has a max weight rating of 220 pounds, which furthers that same point. This model has been around since 2019, so it’s not untested. Blue serpentine design graphics to keep things interesting.
Pros
- Inflatable design so it won’t weigh you down too much,
- Includes an exceptional accessory package for value plus,
- Triple fin control set up ensures easy steering and stability,
- Deflates with ease so storing it takes little space
Cons
- There is a tendency for some units to have valve problems,
- Left unattended in the sun these become badly damaged
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 8 Best Surf SUP, our absolute top pick is SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels.
If you have the money, you can go for SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Universal SUP which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying surf SUPs
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.
Performance
When you are considering performance, solid boards offer the best performance. The boards are faster and smoother, unlike the inflatable boards. You’ll find solid boards more stable, especially when you encounter waves.
An inflatable board is better suited to handle bumps on the water than solid boards. If you want a board for yoga, then the inflatable can be a better choice as it’s softer.
Longer boards are faster than shortboards, but you’ll find them harder to maneuver. For a touring paddleboard, a longer length is preferred. The length makes it easier to move straight, and fewer strokes are needed.
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.
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.
Questions and Answers About surf SUPs
How do you maintain a paddle board?
Protecting your paddle board from over-exposure to heat can go a long way toward making your watercraft last for years in great condition. Another excellent practice is to keep your board clean by rinsing it off thoroughly after each time you use it. If your board has any metal parts, then applying a small film of general lubricating oil will prevent the parts from rusting.
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 long do Inflatable sup last?
If you have an inflatable that’s of average quality then you can expect to get at least five to ten years of normal use out of it, before it needs replacing. This, of course, is dependent on many factors such as unforeseen damages, the level of care you take in storing and maintaining it, and even how frequently you’ll be using it.
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.
