Best Inflatable SUP Reviews 2018

Inflatable SUPs range in price depending on the materials they are made from. High-end inflatable SUPs retail for around $1000. If you don't want to spend that much on such a product, you can go for a good quality inflatable SUP that has multiple features and accessories for between $400 and $800. In this price range, you can find an SUP that’s good enough for a beginner or intermediate rider and you can enjoy all the fun without breaking the bank. However, we advise you to avoid cheap inflatable SUPs as they are not made of quality materials and won’t offer you the stability you need when you are on the paddleboard.

Before purchasing the right inflatable SUP for you, keep in mind how often you intend to use it. If you use it several times a week, check that the fins can be easily taken on and off. Similarly, you also have to check the cargo system of the inflatable SUP in order to be sure it can support your weight and the stuff you bring with you when you paddle.

There are multiple things you should consider before buying an inflatable SUP, so we've made a short list of them to have you covered:

• Size - Smaller people use smaller boards and taller people use wider and longer boards. You should also consider size if you are a beginner, as a larger inflatable SUP will offer you more stability. Narrower SUPs are usually used by experienced boarders. Most inflatable SUPs can support up to 250 lbs.
• Inflation - Inflation pressure varies between 12” and 15” PSI. If the PSI is bigger, the SUP will be more firm. Be aware that this criterion also affects the price.
• Additional features - There are some inflatable SUPs models that are designed for performance and others that are designed for increased comfort and convenience. It’s up to you to choose the one that suits you best.
• Package deals - Inflatable SUPs packages can include multiple accessories: paddle, carry backpack, pump, removable fins, free leashes and more. Tip: Package deals are excellent options that may provide everything you need along with your SUP. Be sure to keep an eye out for these deals!
• Material - Material is also important as it makes the difference between a durable or poor-quality inflatable SUP. Most SUPs, even if they are inflatable, are made of rigid materials that make the board stiff and stable such as epoxy, military grade PVC and more.

Let’s move forward and examine the construction and design aspects of a quality inflatable SUP.

Inflatable SUPs usually feature military grade PVC or epoxy exteriors and a drop-stitch construction that forms an air core. Most of them also come with a pump to inflate and deflate with ease, as well as a storage bag for when they are not in use.

The main advantage of inflatable SUPs over solid ones is that they are easier to transport and to deposit and have more flex than solid one, thus giving the paddler a more natural feel. If you live in a small house or in an apartment, you should go for an inflatable SUP as it is compact and can be stored almost anywhere.

The size of your paddle board should depend on your style of paddling. Boards that are less than 9 ft. are suitable for surfing or for use by children as they are more maneuverable. Boards that are between 9 ft. and 12 ft. are great for calm lakes. Similarly, long boards that are longer than 12 ft. are ideal for fast-paddling or long-distance touring. You should also consider the width, as wider boards are more stable than narrow ones but are not as fast.

Quality inflatable SUPs need to have fins that add stability and tracking to the board. Larger fins provide more stability, while smaller fins make the board easier to maneuver. There are also inflatable SUPs that feature attachment points for seats, cameras and other accessories.

In order to use an inflatable SUP, you'll also need a paddle. No worries, most of them also come with a paddle included, apart from other additional accessories. You should always check the height of the paddle, as it needs to be taller than you.

Inflatable SUPs are really easy to use if you are an experienced boarder. However, if you are a beginner and you want to start having fun on the water, here are a few useful tips that will help you get on that board faster.

First, you'll have to inflate the SUP to the proper firmness. After that, get it in the water until the fin doesn't hit the water anymore. Get on your knees and take a few strokes on the sides of the board. Slowly, stand up in the middle of that board (Note: your feet should be parallel to the stringer). Your knees should be slightly bent. After you've stood up, insert the paddle in the water as far forward as you can and start pulling it through the water. Last but not least, have fun with your new SUP!