Stand up paddle boarding is an activity beloved by adventurers of all skill level, and for good reason. 

For beginners, sitting on your paddle board is the best way to enjoy your ride. As you become more acquainted with your board and how to balance on it, you can attempt to kneel or stand. True aficionados can even attempt paddle board yoga for a challenge. 

If you’re ready to start your next (or first!) paddle boarding adventure, it’s important to know what type of inflatable stand up paddle board to choose. Don’t worry — Retrospec is here to help with this ultimate inflatable paddle board guide!

What Is Paddle Boarding?

Before we can talk about what you should look for in a high quality paddle board, we need to make sure we’re all on the same page about what defines paddle boarding. 

Paddle boarding is a water sport that can be enjoyed in an ocean, lake, or river. Unlike surfing, paddle boarding does not require waves, which makes it more accessible for those just getting started. Beginners should learn in still waters and only attempt paddling through fast-moving water once they’ve gained a little experience and confidence on the water. 

When paddle boarding, you’ll use a paddle to maneuver the board through the water while sitting, kneeling, or standing. 

Stand up paddle boarding is a low-impact, full-body workout that can increase calories burned and challenge more muscles in your body. Balancing on your board engages your core muscles while paddling challenges your arms, back, and shoulders. Luckily your board is capable of long distance excursions so you can get the most out of your workout. 

Plus, being outside and exposed to fresh air and sunlight can help reduce stress and help boost your serotonin levels. Now that’s something to smile about!

Why You Need to Get Into Stand Up Paddle Boarding

In case you still need convincing, here are some reasons why we think everyone should consider adding paddle boarding to their summer to-do list: 

• It’s a workout. Paddle boarding engages your entire body less intensely than running or other kinds of cardio workouts. Paddling increases the strength of your upper body while balancing engages your core and leg muscles. Go long distance for an added burn.

• It gets you outside. Paddle boarding is a great activity to get outside and enjoy the sunshine as the weather gets warmer. 

• It’s accessible. Paddle boarding invites people of all ages and ability levels to explore the open waters. Calm bodies of water like lakes or rivers are incredibly forgiving and provide a great environment to practice.

• It’s fun. If you love the water, the great outdoors, or trying new experiences, you’ll have a wonderful time on your board. With those stunning natural vistas and the serenity that comes with being outdoors, how could you not enjoy yourself?
  
  

What Are the Different Types of Paddle Boards?

So, now you know why paddle boarding is the sport for you. What comes next? With so many paddle boards to choose from, how do you pick the one that’s perfect for you? 

We’re going to guide you through various paddle board features in the search for your SUP soulmate… First, we need to begin by explaining the differences between inflatable and solid paddle boards.

Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

Inflatable paddle boards (iSUP), are generally used for recreation and are more easy to carry because of their ability to inflate and deflate. This allows you to fit your paddle board in the trunk of your car with ease, but the inflated board is still just as sturdy and stable on the water as a hard paddle board. 

Inflatable SUPs are also typically less expensive and lighter than hard SUPs and come in carrying cases and weigh anywhere from 18 to 28 pounds. 

These paddle boards are made from high quality, military grade PVC drop stitch technology, which is incredibly durable and can withstand damage from sharp rocks or objects in the water. Most inflatable paddle boards also come with a repair kit and manual pump, just in case.

A textured foam deck pad is typically included to prevent you from slipping off the board, and attachment points at the tail of board let you add leash to ensure your board always stays close.

Many inflatable paddle boards will also come with adjustable paddles and a removable fin (or a set of several) so that you can choose the speed, stability, and turning radius of your board.

They are also equipped with air valves and often come with a dual action hand pump to make inflating easy. (For even easier inflation, consider investing in an electric pump!)

Once you have your inflated board, you’re ready to go!

Hard Stand Up Paddle Boards

Hard or solid boards are made from a variety of materials that each serve a unique purpose. At its core, foam is necessary to create a board that will float. Materials such as fiberglass and Kevlar help to create board longevity and durability. Solid paddle boards are typically covered with what is called an epoxy finish, which hardens the board and creates a water-tight outer layer. 

Hard SUPs are designed specifically for high-performance activities such as surfing and racing. They are typically more expensive than inflatable paddle boards. 

When it comes to selecting your paddle board, consider the occasions in which you will be using it. iSUPs are generally the best choice for recreational use, while hard SUPs are only truly necessary when racing or SUP surfing.

What to Look for When Buying an Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

If your research has brought you to the conclusion that an inflatable stand up paddle board is best for you, we’re here to help. There are a few things to consider when deciding on the type of inflatable paddle board that is right for you.

Inflatable Paddle Board Shapes

There are two main shapes you will find when searching for an iSUP: all-around and touring. It’s important to know the function of each type in order to determine which one suits your paddling style and level.

All-Around

The all-around SUP is 6 inches thick when inflated, and sports a rounded nose and tail and wider deck. This results in a board that is more stable and easier to use for beginners. Due to its wider frame, this board is less suitable for speed and more geared toward recreation and leisure. 

The all-around has a “rocker”, which means the nose of the board is designed to stay above water, allowing the board to glide easily. 

All-around paddle board features are best for all skill levels and leisure.

Touring

The touring SUP is great for cutting through waves, thanks to its pointed nose and tail that’s narrow for easy steering. 

This style of SUP is crafted for speed, longevity, and high performance. With a narrower neck than the all-around SUP, this board is harder to balance on and should be reserved for experienced paddle boarders. 

The touring SUP is for you if you are experienced in paddle boarding and are using it for SUP racing, or are traveling long distances.

Considering your skill level and the occasions when you’ll be using your SUP can help you select the right style for you.

Kids’

Kids’ paddle boards are designed to help small seafarers get their bearings in the water and paddling in no time. Kids’ paddle boards are typically shorter and wider than classic and touring shapes but have the same textured deck pad to prevent slipping. Kids’ paddle boards also feature a removable fin and rounded hull to provide added stability and control on the water. 

Be aware that because of their smaller size, inflatable paddle boards for kids will come with a smaller weight capacity. When selecting a paddle board for a child, be sure to keep their height and weight in mind.

Inflatable Paddle Board Sizes

Choosing the perfect inflatable paddle board has a lot to do with its dimensions, like length, width, and thickness. 

Length

There are three major categories of SUP length: short, medium, and long. 

Short SUPs are typically under 10 feet long. These are commonly used for surfing and for recreational paddlers under 150 pounds. They are perfect for beginners because of their ability to maneuver better than longer boards. 

Medium boards are 10 to 12 feet long and used for recreation or touring. Long paddle boards are 12 to 14 feet long and are best for long-distance paddling. Long SUPs are the fastest of the three sizes, making them great for racing as well. 

Width

The width of your paddle board will determine its stability. When it comes to width, there are typically only two categories: narrow and wide. 

Narrow SUPs are between 29 and 30 inches wide. These boards are typically more difficult to balance and should be reserved for paddlers with more experience. 

Wide paddle boards are more stable. They are measured at 31 inches or greater in width and are more suitable for beginners.

Thickness

Paddle boards are typically between five and six inches thick. The thicker the paddle board, the more weight it can support. However, with increased thickness comes decreased maneuverability. 

Factoring in your height, weight, and ability level can help you determine the correct dimensions for your SUP. Paddle board size charts are also useful to reference to determine which board has the right dimensions for you. 

Paddle On 

Paddle boarding is continuing to grow in popularity because of its accessibility across all ages and skill levels. Investing in an inflatable SUP could be the best choice you make this summer. Whether you’re surfing, leisure paddling, or touring, inflatable SUPs are an outdoor essential. 

Paddle boarding combines outdoor adventure with a full-body workout. If you’re in the market for an inflatable SUP, factoring in your ability level, your preferred use for your SUP, and your weight can all help lead you to the right board for you. So, what are you waiting for? Let your inflatable paddle board take you on new adventures.