Does the thought of getting out on the lake on a SUP for some fishing, yoga, or a tour excite you? Do you dream of charging the waves at your local beach break? SUPs are plenty of fun, and they don’t take much time to master, unlike surfboards and skateboards.
Stand up paddleboards (SUPs) are becoming a popular sport. Visit any beach, lake, or river, and you’re sure to see a few SUPs floating around with the rider stroking the paddle through the water. From a distance, it appears that all SUPs are the same, but nothing is further from the truth.
SUPs come in different shapes, sizes, and lengths for various activities. From dedicated surf SUPs to boards designed for fishing, and even yoga, there are plenty of ways to have some fun on a SUP.
However, with so many SUP brands and models available, how do you choose the right one for your watersports activity? This post unpacks everything you need to know about choosing the right SUP for your adventure out on the lake or the ocean.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall Stand Up Paddleboard – UICE SUP
The UICE SUP is a great choice for an all-around SUP. This model can do it all, from surfing to fishing. You get user-friendly dimensions and a full accessory kit included with your purchase. - The Best Premium Stand Up Paddleboard – Hurley PhantomTour SUP
Hurley is a leading surf brand, and the PhantomTour brings you the best all-around SUP in this review for any activity. Surfing, yoga, fishing, touring – the PhantomTour does it all in style. - The Best Budget Stand Up Paddleboard – Cooyes SUP
If you want to start your SUP experience on a budget, we recommend going for the Cooyes SUP. This board features a thinner rail design with a pointed nose and pintail, making it a great option for surfing.
Stand Up Paddleboards Reviews
The Best Overall Stand Up Paddleboard- UICE SUP
Our choice for the best overall SUP goes to the UICE. This 10’6″ x 32″ x 6″ inflatable model uses “3 Double Technology” for the skin of the board, featuring drop stitching and thick PVC material for rugged durability and puncture resistance. The thick cover doesn’t add much weight to the board, and it has a lightweight feel.
The SUP deck features an attractive floral design with excellent UV resistance, ensuring the design doesn’t fade in the sun. The deck also features reinforcement with carbon fiber for added strength and a grab handle for easy carry from the car to the shore. The front of the deck also features bungee rigging for securing your gear.
- 【Real Double Technology】UICE SUP is 11'long x 33''wide x 6'' thick. UICE Inflatable Paddle Board is made of excellent drop stitch and thicker PVC, reinforced with one more layer of real material than other brands, our board is thicker but still lightweight as we uses the most advanced technology:Double Layer/Double Wall/Double Fusion,also known as "3 DOUBLE Technology".We provide the strongest and durable board,because we hope every customer who uses our product will stand out from the ocean.
- 【Colorful UV-Printing Technology】 UICE Inflatable Paddle Board is very attractive so that people will recognize you at the first glance.It is a combination of classic black and fashion color,but you do not worry about the color fading problem because we use the updated UV-Printing Technology to make sure the color is permanent.
- 【Excellent Performance】The paddle board reinforced with carbon fiber are more stable，easier to keep balance.The shape of our paddle board is not the usual all-round,it is with a special pointy nose, and with 10 degree perk. Its wider and bigger traction pad eva space make you feel more comfortable and no problem to allow one more person and pet.It is also perfect for all skill levels and suits in most water environments.You can take a cruise through oceans, lakes or rivers.
- 【Premium Full Accessories】Everything you need to enjoy your day on water: Two detachable side fins /removable center fin;safty surfboard coiled leash;double action adjustable hand pump;3-piece easy to install alumimum paddle;5L UICE designed black waterproof bag;a thick,soft and big storage backpack;repair kit.
- 【High Performanced Board】 Please note that because UV printing technology is adopted, if not used, please avoid exposure to high temperature and sunlight to avoid unnecessary damage. UICE SUP own the maxium pressre 15psi,can load up to 370lbs. We have full confidence in our products.Any questions,please feel free to contact us.We provide 1 year warranty service. If there is damage during this period, we will replace the paddle for free.
The board is wide, providing -plenty of buoyancy for beginners, and the large traction pad prevents your feet from slipping from the board, with no need for wax. This model comes with a 10-degree rocker in the nose, making it ideal for use on the ocean or in rougher water in lakes, lagoons, and estuaries. The wide rails give it good stability on the water.
It’s a great crossover model, offering you a good blend of surf and touring compatibility. The board comes with a complete accessory package, including a large collapsible paddle, leash, dry bag, detachable center and side fins for better tracking, and a hand pump. There’s a puncture repair kit and storage bag included, and you get a 2-year warranty from UICE.
What We Liked
- Good choice for beginners.
- Suitable for touring and light surfing.
- Rugged military-grade drop stitch.
- Attractive deck print.
- Accessory kit included.
- 2-year warranty.
The Best Premium Stand Up Paddleboard – Hurley PhantomTour SUP
This 10’ 6” x 30” x 6” inflatable model from legendary surf brand, Hurley, brings you the ultimate in inflatable SUP fun. Hurley is an iconic surf brand founded in Huntington Beach in 1999.
The PhantomTour is a great choice for touring, yoga, and fishing, and the design also holds up in two to three-foot surf. The board has a thinner width and rails for better gripping into the wall of waves and excellent handling in all conditions.
The deck and hull feature design and construction with a 2-ply high-density drop stitch, featuring pro laminate fusion materials for durability and puncture resistance. The board has a prominent nose and tail rocker, and the square squash tail allows better tracking and grip in small surf.
- Includes: 10’ 6” Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard, Coiled Leash, Dual Action Hand Pump, Utility Waterproof Backpack Bag, US Standard Detachable Fin & Repair Kit. This set includes everything you need to get out on the water right away.
- The Hurley PhantomTour 10’ 6” SUP is perfect for Touring, Racing, Fishing, Yoga and Surfing! Take on any conditions, in and easy to transport package and lightweight setup. Perfect for paddlers of all skill level. Board Dimensions: 10’ 6” x 30” x 6”
- With 2 ply high density drop stitch and pro laminate fusion material, The Hurley SUP offers board stability with the highest quality material. This board can handle up to 280 lbs of weight.
- The included hikeable waterproof utility backpack and dry bag makes storing and carrying your board & accessories to the water easy and convenient. The carrying bag contains exterior straps to latch the pump, paddle and fin to the outside of the bag to increase storage capacity inside. Keep clothes and valuables safe and dry throughout your SUP adventures with the waterproof dry bag. Hurley DryBag & SUP backpack is perfect for all outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking and backpacking.
- Hurley was founded in Huntington Beach in 1999 on the principle of empowering and fueling the voice of the next generation. Disruptive innovation is our unique blend of style and performance and has Hurley sitting as the global benchmark for performance both in and out of the water. Trusted in quality for over 20 years! Hurley - Born from Water.
The top and bottom of the board feature an attractive multicolor print. The deck comes with a traction pad for grip and a handle for carrying and dragging the board to and from the water. The front of the board comes with bungee rigging to secure your gear while fishing or touring.
The Hurley Phantom tour comes with an ISUP Paddle and standard fin for better tracking. The paddle offers full height adjustment capability with a cam lock system to ensure your paddle holds the right length. The US standard detachable fin is ideal for helping you stay on your line when surfing.
The PhantomTour comes with an accessory kit featuring a two-way air pump for fast inflation, a leash, the telescopic paddle, detachable fin, and a stylish backpack-style carry bag. You get a two-year warranty included from Hurley.
What We Liked
- Hurley is a top surf brand.
- Premium design and features.
- Trac-pad and drag handles on deck.
- Telescopic paddle.
- Full accessory kit included.
- 2-year warranty.
The Best Budget Stand Up Paddleboard – Cooyes SUP
If you’re looking for a SUP on a budget, this 10’6″ x 32″ x 6″ model from Cooyes is a solid choice for beginners. This model comes built for a good time in the waves, with a slender nose and a pintail. The nose and tail combined with the elevated nose rocker to hug the face of the wave when surfing in three to four-foot waves.
There’s plenty of width for stability when surfing and touring. However, it’s not the best choice for yoga or fishing as the thinner nose and tail don’t offer the same level of support when standing with your feet in the forward-facing position.
- 【More Fun for Beginners & Experts】10'6" in Length, 32" in Width, and 6" in Thickness. 330 lbs weight capacity helps you stand and balance perfectly, suitable for beginners. Superior Maneuverability For Different Users. 3 triple bottom panel fins help improve overall speed. The triplefin design is better for going straight in flat water and also helps with control during surfing. Designed to target customer who wants to enjoy fishing, excursions, snorkeling, leisurely paddling, and even SUP-yoga.
- 【35% lighter & Long Service Life】Made of military-grade DWF epoxy reinforced material. The ultra-light drop-stitch PVC structure makes it 35% lighter than similar-size SUPs (19.4 pounds). PVC and top-quality nylon yarn brushed cushions to bring the board higher strength and a lower bending rate. 15 PSI safety data is strictly tested before leaving the factory. UV resistant exterior protective coating and high-pressure laminate structure are also designed for board protection.
- 【50% Less preparation time】The other SUP usually takes 5 - 10 minutes to inflate and deflate, but COOYES needs only 3 minutes to do the same. Quick and time-saving. Provided double action hand pump with an air pressure gauge to help you inflate or deflate the SUP quickly. The ergonomic handle fits your palm perfectly to save energy effectively. Two elastic strings are equipped to fix the air hoses.
- 【All in 1 accessory bundle】COOYES inflatable stand-up paddle board comes with a complete package that includes: Center removable fin, emergency repair kit, 3-Piece adjustable light weight aluminum paddle, premium backpack carrying bag, ankle Leash, waterproof phone case and double action hand pump with air pressure gauge. It makes COOYES SUP ready to use when out of the box. We also take into account possible emergencies, emergency repair Kit are included in the accessories package.
- 【12 months warranty】If you had chosen COOYES, you will not only get a stylish COOYES ISUP and enjoy a follow-up, considerate after-sale service. COOYES is committed to bringing the best quality SUP to all users. Therefore, we confidently promise a one-year unconditional warranty on boards and accessories! If you have any concerns or questions about COOYES SUP, do not hesitate to contact our after-sale team, and we will respond to you within 24 hours.
However, you get a bungee rig in the nose for your gear, and the deck features a traction pad. There’s a carry handle at the center for easy transport from the car to the water. The hull of the SUP features detachable side and center fins for improving tracking on waves. The board comes with a drop-stitch military-grade PVC material for puncture resistance.
We like the UV-resistant cover and the attractive palm tree and bird print. There’s a complete accessory kit included with this board. You get a telescopic paddle, detachable fins, leash, dry bag, and two-way air pump included for fast inflation. Deflate the board, fold it, and pack it into the included carry bag when the day is over.
What We Liked
- Affordable price tag.
- Thinner nose and pintail for better performance in the waves.
- Tri-fin thruster setup.
- Long trac-pad on deck.
- Full accessory kit included.
- Four color options.
- 2-year warranty.
Tuxedo Sailor SUP
If you’re a SUP beginner, you need a board offering you a beginner-friendly setup on the water. The longer the length and wider the board, the more stability it provides you for yoga, fishing, and general tour paddling. The Tuxedo Sailor brings beginners the ultimate SUPO package.
This inflatable model measures 12’× 34 “× 6” with extra length and width, offering superior stability on the water. However, the longer design, minimal nose rocker, and wide tail mean this board is only suitable for flat water, so keep it out of the waves, or you’ll find yourself pearling forward and losing track of the face.
- 【Unique Design】Tuxedo Sailor paddleboard is specially designed for fishing activities. The three fishing bases set on the paddleboard are to facilitate the installation of fishing supports from different angles. Our package has also prepared you with two fishing supports. The multi-functional elastic rope at the front and rear of the board is a unique design to facilitate easier storage of the fishing accessories and your fishing harvest.
- 【Extra Large Size】The extra-large in the dimension of 12' × 34" ×6” is not only suitable for fishermen but also suitable for beginners with its advanced stability. This paddleboard is equipped with a shoulder strap; you can carry the board easily even it’s inflated. The kayak seat in the accessory package is to facilitate long- time fishing activity.
- 【Multifunctional Accessories】A multifunctional base on the board is wonderful for any parts that can be installed. When being used as a camera base, your paddleboarding journey can be recorded. On the side of the paddleboard, there’s a paddle hanger that we designed to safely store your paddle and free your hands when the paddle is not in use.
- [Inflation & Store] The unique ergonomic design of the inflator allows the board to inflate with you. The sensitive barometer ensures that you can read the inflation pressure value of the Sup (12-15psi) at any time. You can use the multifunctional elastic rope at the front of the board to store items you may need for the trip.
- 【Package Including】1 inflatable paddle board, 3-piece length adjustable floating paddle, 3 fins, 1 SUP pump, 1 backpack, 1 10L Dry Bag, 1 leash, 1 shoulder strap, 1 kayak seat, 2 fishing rod bracket.
The deck and hull feature design and construction with durable military-grade PVC materials for puncture resistance. The board is ideal for fishing, with the larger width allowing for more movement when fighting fish. There’s a paddle holder on the rail and bungee webbing on the front and tail of the board for storing your gear and catch.
There’s a long trac-pad on the deck and carry handles in the center of the deck, the nose, and the tail, allowing easy carry to the water and easy removal after landing from your day out on the water. Connect the shoulder straps for a lightweight, comfortable carry.
You get a fishing and accessory kit included. We like the detachable back pad for relaxing in a seating position when fishing and the deck also features a rod holder for hands-free fishing. Other accessories included with the board are the two-way air pump, carry bag, dry bag, three detachable fins, leash, and telescopic paddle. You get a two-year warranty included with your purchase.
What We Liked
- The best setup for fishing.
- Fishing accessories included.
- Wide and long design for stability.
- Plenty of bungee rigging for storage.
- Shoulder strap and rail paddle clips.
DRIFT SUP
This Drift SUP features inflatable design, measuring 10’8″ x 33″ x 6″. The board offers excellent stability for beginners, and the tail and nose rocker makes it a great crossover board for surfing, touring yoga, and fishing. You get a military-grade PVC construction with excellent puncture resistance.
The 33″ width adds more stability to the bard for crossover use, and the pointed nose and squash tail improve tracking on wave faces, with the tri-fin thruster setup digging into the wave face for better board control when surfing.
- Durable Paddle Board Design: This inflatable paddle board is constructed to be sturdy enough for any water adventure
- Convenient Features for Paddle Board: This stand-up paddle board has a foam deck pad, bungee straps, and grab handles for a secure ride
- Portable Paddle Board: This stand-up paddleboard quickly inflates and deflates, making it easy to store and transport
- Water Paddle Board Kit: This inflatable paddle board comes with a coiled leash, removable fin, repair kit, 3-piece aluminum paddle, high-pressure pump, and a carrying bag
- Paddle Board Warranty: All paddle boards are covered by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty at no additional cost, because at Drift, we stand by the quality of our boards
The front of the board comes with bungee rigging for storage, and there’s a long trac-pad extending to the rigging.
The deck features a carry handle in the center and drag handles at the nose and tail for easy carry and removal from the water. The attractive, fade-resistant, floral design on the nose is a nice touch, and it’s available in two color options.
You get a complete accessory kit included, with telescopic paddle, leash, removable tri-fin set up, two-way air pump, and a carry bag.
What We Liked
- Crossover design for surf, fishing, touring, yoga.
- Long trac-pad.
- Full accessory kit included.
- Good choice for beginners.
SereneLife SUP
This inflatable model from SereneLife measures 10’6″ x 32″ x 6″. It’s a good choice for crossover use, offering you enough stability for yoga, fishing, and touring. The high nose and tail rocker and the tri-fin thruster setup also provide better tracking of the board in rougher waters.
It’s a good choice for an entry-level board for surfing, with the rounded nose and squash tail combined with the thruster fin setup for better control on the wave face.
- Upgraded wide SUP design for better balance: measuring 10’6 feet long & 32 inches wide, balancing & stabilizing on top of our SUP board is a breeze. Construction Materials-Drop Stitch, Reinforced Engineered PVC
- Soft, stable & anti slip top deck: perfect for beginners, We've upgraded this inflatable paddle board with a no slip Soft top that cushions your fall when slips or accidents occur. They happen to the best of us, so might as well be prepared
- Best paddling manoeuvrability: outfitted with triple bottom panel fins, steering & handling The stand up inflatable paddle boards is incredibly easy offering exceptional surf control, you'll be gliding & skimming the water like a sea creature
- PORTABLE & INFLATABLE SUP BOARD: 100 percent travel friendly, this unique SUP inflatable paddle board is preferred by those who have a knack for adventure Take it with you on surfing excursions or keep it in your car for those times you want to explore
- All in 1 blow up Paddle board kit: complete with all must have Paddle board Accessories, Our SUP Paddle board will have you ready to hit the waves includes 10'6 board, Coiled ankle cuff Safety leash, upgraded aluminium paddle, patch repair accessory kit,
The board features design and construction with durable drop-stitch reinforced PVC material for puncture resistance.
The deck comes with a large trac-pad, and there’s bungee rigging on the nose for storing your gear. There are paddle clips on either side of the rials, allowing for paddle storage when practicing yoga or fishing.
The SereneLife comes with a complete accessory kit, including a telescopic paddle, two-way air pump for fast inflation, removable fins, repair kit, leash, and carry bag.
What We Liked
- Suitable for crossover use.
- Affordable.
- Accessory kit included.
- Good choice for beginners.
Aqua Plus SUP
The Aqua Plus SUP is another good choice for beginners who need more board stability for crossover use. This inflatable measures 11′ x 33″ x6″, offering you a bit more length and width than other SUPs.
This board features design and construction with durable PVC drop-stitch materials for puncture resistance. There are plenty of D-rings along the length of the board for tying off gear and securing the SUP when you’re fishing. You get a shoulder strap included for easy carry to and from the water.
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- Rigid Design : It feels very similar to a hard board.The board is made of high grade Military Ultra Light PVC Drop Stitch Fabric. Constructed with additional PVC layer of board rails are highly strengthened the board.
- Ultra Portable : Deflated it's only 1 foot in diameter by 38". Inflated size : 11'x33"x6" Thick. Weight 20.3lbs, Maximum capactiy is up to 350lbs, Stable and great for all skill levels and conditions.
- Deck Features : 5mm Comfort diamond groove traction for grip. 11pcs of 316 Stainless Steel D-Rings and bungee on front deck for storage.
- Complete Package : Board, Fully adjustable aluminium paddle measures from 65-82inches long,Voyager ISUP travel backpack, Shoulder Strap, Coiled leash, Removable fin, Waterproof Cell-Phone Pouch,Double Action Pump: during the 1st phase of the inflation use double action:clip closed Fig.1, when the pressure arrives to a relatively higher value, use single action:clip open,Fig.2.
The deck comes with a trac-pad and carry handle in the center. There’s also bungee rigging in the nose for secure storage of your gear out on the water. The additional width and length of the board give it exceptional stability for beginners when practicing yoga, fishing, or touring. However, the wider design means that the rails don’t have the same grip on wave faces for open-face surfing.
The Aqua Plus comes with a full accessory kit, including a pump, leash, shoulder strap, dry bag, telescopic paddle, and carry bag. You get a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.
What We Liked
- Wide design and extra length for stability.
- Good crossover use for yoga, fishing, and touring.
- Accessory kit included.
Other Best Selling Options
- 3 YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY
- Roc’s Paddle Boards are now made with the highest-grade material that is 50% stronger than competitors boards. Find out why Roc is the top-rated paddle board sold on Amazon and around the world.
- With an industry leading 350lbs weight limit. You can see why Roc is committed to manufacturing the safest most reliable paddle board on the market.
- Our extra wide design creates an incredible all-around board for all skill levels. Making it the perfect board for all.
- All boards come complete with premium accessories that are superior to other board packs
- Versatile: Paddle board suitable for various water activities like cruising, yoga, fishing, and more.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials to withstand regular use and outdoor conditions.
- Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to transport, with a compact size for convenient storage.
- Stable Platform: Wide and rigid shape provides excellent stability and balance on the water.
- Accessories Included: Comes with essential gear like a paddle, leash, and carry bag for a complete experience.
- 【Enjoy the Water with Confidence】Crafted with premium PVC materials and cutting-edge technology that is absolutely stronger and durable than other sup boards, Overmont inflatable paddle board ensures lasting durability&reliability, and offers unparalleled convenience and performance on the water,making it the ideal choice for both novice and experienced paddlers seeking a board they can trust.
- 【Unmatched Stability】Backed by rigorous testing and quality assurance, our inflatable SUP meets industry standards for performance and safety. With a weight limit of 320 pounds, you can trust that our paddleboard offers the stability and resilience needed to navigate different water conditions with ease.
- 【Fun for Everyone】Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner discovering the joys of stand-up paddleboarding, our inflatable SUP is your perfect companion. Its generous weight limit means it can adapt to various body types and skill levels, making it an excellent choice for individuals and families alike.
- 【Easy Portability】Inflate, deflate, and hit the water in minutes with our convenient inflatable design. Compact and lightweight when deflated, our SUP is easy to transport, allowing you to explore new waterways effortlessly.
- 【Order with Confidence】Join countless satisfied customers who have experienced the thrill of paddleboarding with our reliable and versatile inflatable SUP. Our paddle boards come with a 30-day return policy and a complimentary 3-year warranty, guaranteeing your satisfaction. Any concerns with SUP, please reach out to us without hesitation.
- 【Design Concept】The Honor series has added a five pointed star. The pentagram represents the harmonious unity of all things in the world. The pentagram, due to its rich meaning, is widely used by military forces of various countries and has various uses. The pentagram is not only a symbol of demons, but also has the meaning of suppressing darkness.
- 【Quality and Details】Every detail meets high standards, and the oversized EVA anti slip deck has excellent durability, anti slip performance, and comfort. High strength elastic rope expands storage space, and unique paddle end handle design meets diverse needs. The paddle board can be easily inflated and rolled up, making it easy to store and transport.
- 【Materials and Parameters】The standard size of the inflatable paddle board is 11'x 33" x 6 ", with a load capacity of 360 pounds. It uses a new ultra light military grade double wall PVC that is 35% lighter than similar size products. The inflatable paddle board is made of ultra light military grade PVC material, which has excellent durability, toughness, and long service life. At the same time, it provides greater buoyancy and sufficient surface area to support standing or sitting.
- 【Package includes】1 inflatable paddleboard, 1 adjustable paddle, 1fin, 1 leash, 1 air valve adapter, and 1 repair kit.(Package contents are subject to pictures)
- 【Customer Service】Funwater not only has excellent products, but also has excellent customer service. Don't worry, if you have any questions about the inflatable paddle, please contact me and I will solve them for you.
- [High stability and safety]: With the extra wide stand up paddle board design, you can keep your balance very easily and steer easily. Meet the surfing needs of families and professional athletes. Sturdy and stable SUP to help you navigate between waves
- [Excellent 350lbs weight-bearing capacity]: Our inflatable paddle board is made of high quality EVA material, which has stronger weight-bearing capacity. Maximum weight capacity: 350 lbs. So you can use the with your friends or pets and enjoy surfing
- [Non-slip and soft deck]: This inflatable paddle board is equipped with a non-slip, soft top deck that provides cushioning when you slip. Bringing you a safe surfing experience. Equipped with foot loops to help keep your body firmly anchored to the board and prevent drifting
- [Supporting accessories]: Each paddle board kit comes with a collapsible lightweight aluminum paddle, dual action hand pump, stabilizer fins, coil safety leash, and an emergency repair kit. In addition, we have a weight-bearing backpack for easy carrying. Bifanuo paddle boards can be used in different waters, including oceans, lakes, and rivers to enjoy surfing
- [Professional product and service]: Bifanuo paddle boards are sold all over the world,you can trust Bifanuo as the leader in quality and value! If you have any questions about the product, please contact us promptly and we will get back to you within 24 hours
Stand Up Paddleboards Buyer’s Guide
Buying your first SUP is an exhilarating experience. However, it’s a serious investment, and boards aren’t cheap. So, you’ll need to ensure you buy the right board to get the most out of your SUP experience.
Our buyer’s guide runs you through everything you need to know when choosing the right board for your watersports activities.
What are the Types of Standup Paddleboards?
There are several different types of SUPs, and each of them has various applications and dimensions to suit your activities out on the water. Let’s unpack the difference in the boards to understand the right model for you.
What do you want to do with your SUP? There are plenty of different activities to enjoy out on the water. Here are the types of SUPs and how their design impacts the sports-specific performance of the board.
Fishing SUPs
The fishing SUP needs a longer and wider design for handling the stress of fighting fish. The last thing you need is to fall overboard when you’re trying to land that grouper. The fishing SUP usually comes with additional accessories like rod holders and adjustable seating to reduce the stress on your back when sitting on the board.
Touring and Yoga SUPs
Touring and yoga SUPs have a longer length and wider width. These boards are all about stability, and you’ll need it when you’re trying to practice your handstands. They are bigger than the crossover version, and most of them come with single detachable fins for the underside of the board to improve tracking.
Crossover SUPs
These models are ideal for use in all watersports activities, from surfing to fishing and touring. They are typically on the shorter side, and they have more rocker in the nose and tail than other boards. They have widths ranging from 30” to 32” and thinner rails to hug the wave face when surfing. Look for models with detachable fins in tri-fin setups, known as thrusters. These fin configurations allow for the best control over the board in the surf.
Solid Vs. Inflatable SUPs
Should you buy a SUP with a solid foam construction and glassed deck, or go with an inflatable? We feel that the only time you should consider a solid SUP is when you want to go surfing. Surf SUPs are very different from traditional models and a lot more expensive.
Surf SUPs feature design and construction with EPS or PU foam and fiberglass resins glassing the deck. The result is a sturdy, heavy board. Due to the shaping capabilities of foam boards, surf SUPs usually have a thinner profile and rails, a sharper nose, and more rocker in the tail and nose.
They are a lot more expensive, and they require transport using roof racks on the top of your car. So, if you want a SUP for touring, yoga, or fishing, we recommend going with an inflatable model. Inflatables are less than half the price of a surf SUP, and they offer easy inflation and deflation for compact transport and storage. Many of them come with dedicated carry bags making hauling the board a breeze.
Some people might think that an inflatable SUP is a sinking risk. However, the reality is that most of them come with a multi-inflation chamber design, and there’s little chance of you sinking it. The inflatable is also around a third of the weight of the surf SUP.
The bottom of the board features design and construction with durable, double-drop stitching and military-grade PVC. As a result, you get superior tear and puncture resistance.
Choosing the Right Size for Your SUP
When you’re sizing up your SUP, it requires you to know the right lengths, widths, and thicknesses of the board and how it affects the design and performance in the water. Typically, all-around SUPs for beginners come with dimensions around 10’6” in length, 32-inches in width, and 6-inches in thickness. These boards suit use in flat and rough water, and they have excellent crossover functionality for all types of SUP activities.
The longer and wider the board, the more stability it offers. That’s an important design concern for people who practice SUP yoga or fish off the board. Typically, fishing and yoga SUPs are around 34-inches to 36-inches in width, and they vary in lengths between 11-feet to 12-feet. These boards have plenty of buoyancy and stability required for these activities.
The touring SUP has a longer design towards the 11-foot mark but thinner rails to improve the board’s tracking in rough waters and reduce drag under the board. You’ll choose the SUP length, width, and thickness to match your needs.
Choosing the Right Paddle for Your SUP
The SUP paddle is an essential part of equipment for the SUP experience. Without the paddle, you’re at the mercy of the current and the waves, and you go where it wants to take you, not where you want to go. The SUP paddle consists of three parts, namely, the handle, shaft, and blade.
The center of the paddle shaft features a comfortable, rubberized grip to reduce stress in your hands. The top of the shaft has a “T” installed, allowing you to power down on the top of the paddle with your stroke; the “T” design also helps manage the top of the paddle to angle the blade when turning the SUP.
Paddle Shaft and Blade Materials
Paddles are available in various configurations and styles to suit your needs.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight and sturdy material. It’s also low-cost, which is why you find it as the material of choice for entry-level paddlers. These paddles usually include plastic blades for strength and lightweight use.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is light and strong, but it’s expensive. Re-enforced fiberglass shafts are stiff and reliable, allowing for more drive in the water and less fatigue in your arms.
Carbon
Carbon fiber has a little more give to it than the fiberglass design., However, it’s a very strong and sturdy material, but it’s also horribly expensive. Typically you’ll only find the use of carbon fiber and Kevlar in professional paddles.
Kevlar
Some manufacturers weave Kevlar and carbon fiber together to create a very light, strong paddle suitable for professional use. However, it’s the most expensive material available.
Choosing the Right Paddle Height
Choosing the right paddle height for your SUP depends on your height. For surf SUPs, you’ll choose a paddle that is six to eight inches longer than your height. This length allows you to fully submerge the blade and get a deep, vertical stroke. The shorter length also makes it easy to drag in the wave face to control the board.
SUPS for flatwater use on lakes are usually eight to ten inches above the rider’s height. This added length gives you more drive from your paddling stroke. Touring SUP paddles are ten to twelve inches taller than the rider’s height. This configuration gives you the longest reach possible to reduce energy expenditure on long trips.
SUP Leash
The leash on your SUP keeps the board attached to your body. Without it, the board will drift away if you’re on alike, or the ocean will push it to the shore when you fall. The leash is essential for safety, especially for beginners. The last thing you need is to find yourself in the impact zone of the waves, with no SUP to float you.
You have two leash styles, standard, and coil. The leash connects one side of the line to the leg strap, usually featuring a Velcro design. You secure the leash at the top of the clave muscle, under the knee. Don’t secure it to your ankle, as the SUP will drag you when you fall in a current or the waves.
The other side of the leash connects to the leash plug at the back of the footpad. The difference between a standard and coil leash is that the coil doesn’t sit in the water, reducing the drag caused by a standard leash design.
Accessory Kits for SUPs
Most manufacturers listed in this review offer you a complete accessory kit with your purchase. You’ll get a carry bag, an air pump, a paddle, leash, and some even come with fishing accessories like rod holders and collapsible seats. Most accessory kits will include a puncture repair kit for emergency repairs. However, we recommend getting the board professionally repaired for the best results.
Stand Up Paddleboard FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between surf SUPs and other models?
A: Surf SUPs typically have more nose and tail rockers than other models. The rocker is the bend in the board, and it’s usually steeper on the nose than the tail. Surf SUPs also feature thinner rails and more fins, usually a tri-fin or “thruster” setup that helps you grip the face of the wave when surfing.
Most surf SUPs feature design and construction with foam and glassed resin; they are not inflatable. Surf SUPs don’t deflate, and you’ll need to carry them using roof racks, as most of them are too long and bulky to fit in a car or station wagon.
Q: Can I use my SUP without a leash?
A: Yes, you can use your SUP without a leash when you’re in calm water. Some pro riders even use their SUP without a leash in the waves. The leash is beneficial for newcomers as it keeps the board within arm’s reach if you fall off.
When in a strong current or rough water, the board might get away from you and float out of reach, presenting a drowning risk. If you’re a newbie to SUP, we recommend always wearing your leash. Fit the leash to the upper end of your calf muscle, just below the knee, not around the ankle. Placing the leash in this position prevents the board from dragging you if you fall.
Q: Do I need to wax my SUP?
A: No, all the SUPs in this review come with traction pads on the deck as standard features. Dedicated surf SUPs featuring EPS or PU materials and glassed fiberglass decks require wax. The wax helps your feet stick to the board when surfing, preventing you from slipping. However, the traction pad performance the same action as the wax, and you don’t have to replace it.
Q: Should I buy my SUP and gear from Amazon?
A: We recommend buying your SUP from Amazon. Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer, with the best selection and prices. Prime members get free shipping and fast delivery to your door. You get buyer protection for your order and guaranteed delivery.
The Best Stand Up Paddleboards – The Verdict
After reading through the reviews of the best stand-up paddleboards, we bet you have your eye on a specific model to suit your watersports activities. Whether you’re looking for a SUP for yoga, fishing, surfing, or touring, we have a model in this review to suit your needs.
However, we realize some of you might be biting your nails trying to decide on the right model for you. If that’s the case, why not go with one of our top picks? We have a model to suit any activity and any budget.
- The Best Overall Stand Up Paddleboard – UICE SUP
The UICE SUP is a great choice for an all-around SUP. This model can do it all, from surfing to fishing. You get user-friendly dimensions and a full accessory kit included with your purchase. - The Best Premium Stand Up Paddleboard – Hurley PhantomTour SUP
Hurley is a leading surf brand, and the PhantomTour brings you the best all-around SUP in this review for any activity. Surfing, yoga, fishing, touring – the PhantomTour does it all in style. - The Best Budget Stand Up Paddleboard – Cooyes SUP
If you want to start your SUP experience on a budget, we recommend going for the Cooyes SUP. This board features a thinner rail design with a pointed nose and pintail, making it a great option for surfing.
