Paddleboarding is one of the most exciting water sports. But for beginners, it can be pretty scary and intimidating. Luckily, I’m here to let you know that it’s not as frightening as it seems. Yes, there are chances you’ll fall into the water. However, even some pros still have those moments. And with the best stand-up paddle board for beginner, you should have nothing to worry about. I have tried out some of the top options on the market, and they don’t disappoint. Aside from being exceptionally stable, many are also more affordable than paddleboards for professionals. So, which ones made it to the list? Keep reading to find out!
Table of contents
- FBSPORT Paddle Board
- Aqua Marina Atlas
- SereneLife Free-Flow
- Goosehill Sailor
- iROCKER All-Around
- Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board
- NIXY Newport
- GILI Meno
- THURSO SURF Waterwalker 126
- GILI Air
- ISLE Pioneer
- Bluefin Cruise
- iROCKER Nautical
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Standup Paddleboards for Beginners
- Are stand-up paddle boards easy to use?
- What style of SUP would be most suitable for a beginner?
- Do paddle boards flip easily?
FBSPORT Paddle Board
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The first beginner-friendly paddleboard on this list comes from FBSPORT. The FBSPORT Paddle Board is a high-quality option that won’t intimidate first-timers. Though inflatable and lightweight, I was surprised by its toughness. After I fully inflated it, it honestly felt like a hard paddle board. It’s hard and rigid, but I was able to lift and carry it without any problems.
The maneuverability of this beginner stand-up paddle board is nothing you should underestimate. With a pointed nose and three fins, I was able to have fun on the water with no worries and always keep my balance. Better yet, I was able to do so without sacrificing speed. Not to mention, the accessories are of high quality. However, it can only accommodate up to 280 lbs of weight.
Pros
- Unlike other cookie-cutter options, this paddleboard offers great maneuverability.
- It’s a versatile option that can also be used for fishing, yoga, and other water activities.
- I had an easy time inflating and deflating it.
Cons
- Though not a deal-breaker, its maximum weight capacity is only 280 lbs.
Buy on:
Aqua Marina Atlas
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If you’re a beginner that wants someone to paddleboard with you, consider the Aqua Marina Atlas! Compared to the others, it’s relatively longer and wider. This 12 feet paddleboard is surely big enough for an extra passenger. This paddleboard is big enough whether you want to bring extra gear, your dog, or your beloved one. And at 34 inches wide, it’ll make sure you’ll never lose your balance.
What about its weight capacity? Fret not, as this paddleboard can handle a maximum weight capacity of 396 lbs. In addition, its durability is also impressive. With a double-layer design, it can last for seasons to come. Though inflatable, it’s also ridiculously rigid. This paddleboard is truly one of the best for a budget-friendly yet durable option.
Pros
- I found it easy to attach the fins to the paddleboard.
- The bungees are high quality.
- It offers great value for a big paddleboard.
Cons
- I have to admit that it’s pretty heavy.
Buy on:
SereneLife Free-Flow
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The SereneLife Free-Flow is one of the most popular paddleboards on Amazon. As of this writing, it has over 21,000 buyers. That’s pretty insane, right? One of the main reasons behind its popularity is its construction. When I first touched this inflatable paddleboard, I thought it was hard plastic. I certainly didn’t expect this at all, especially considering its affordable price tag. Such a good deal, right?
Also, inflating this beginner stand-up paddle board was never a hustle. I was able to fully inflate it in just around five minutes using the included manual pump. Though not an electric pump, I found the manual pump to be easy to use. Made for beginners, this option comes with an anti-slip top deck. Even if you fall, it won’t hurt as much as the top deck is soft. And since it’s grippy, I doubt you’ll fall often.
Pros
- It allows beginners to maneuver easily.
- This is a lightweight and travel-friendly option.
- Thanks to its wide body, it has an amazing balance.
Cons
- It’s not the most durable option, especially when compared to other premium paddleboards.
Buy on:
Goosehill Sailor
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Though not a high-end model, the Goosehill Sailor still managed to impress us. After testing this paddleboard, I came to the conclusion that it’s one of the most beginner-friendly options out there. During testing, it was super easy to use. It’s stable, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. Plus, who says a budget paddleboard can’t last long? I knew it was durable with a PVC material the moment I touched it.
Now, let’s talk about the freebies. As with most paddleboards on this list, this one also comes with a pump, removable fin, repair kit, and other accessories. All of them have decent quality, but my favorite is the bag, which is exceptionally well-made. Also, I only fell into the water twice, thanks to the non-slip surface. Best of all, the paddleboard is backed by a three-year warranty. By the way, make sure to also check out Goosehill’s YouTube channel! It provides plenty of useful tips for beginners.
Pros
- This paddleboard is backed by a three-year warranty.
- It’s one of the more lightweight options out there.
- It’s available in a wide color options.
Cons
- The quality of the accessories is so-so.
Buy on:
iROCKER All-Around
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What we have here is the iROCKER All-Around, a reasonably priced and versatile paddleboard that’s designed for beginners. This paddleboard is suitable for a wide range of activities, be it touring, fishing, or simply chilling on the river. More experienced paddleboarders may also love this paddleboard, making it a widely versatile option regardless of your paddleboarding skills.
Also, when it comes to durability, this paddleboard doesn’t disappoint. While some of the most durable options out there have a two-layer construction, this one comes with a three-layer construction. This means you’ll have a thicker and better paddleboard. Inflating the paddleboard is also a breeze. Thanks to the electric pump, I was able to fully inflate it by myself in around 10 minutes. Such a piece of cake!
Pros
- It has plenty of bungees for storage.
- This paddleboard is backed by a three-year warranty.
- It’s not only lightweight but also stable.
Cons
- The material of the included bag is a bit too thin.
Buy on:
Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board
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Another nice option for newbies is the Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board. Considering its price tag, I was surprised by this paddleboard’s performance. In fact, it’s much cheaper than some budget-friendly SUPs on the market. Based on my experience, it could handle the water much better than its competitors. Moreover, at just 18.8 lbs, it’s also pretty lightweight. You don’t have to be a gym rat to lift and carry this paddleboard around.
Beyond that, this paddleboard is also stable. As long as the waves aren’t too big, there’s nothing you should worry about. And just like most paddleboards out there, this one also comes complete with accessories like a fin, a paddle, and a pump. Of course, there’s also a durable backpack that can keep all the included accessories, making them a breeze to store and transport.
Pros
- This paddleboard is lightweight and highly portable.
- It’s much more affordable than its competitors.
- It’s backed by a hassle-free one-year warranty.
Cons
- The quality of the pump isn’t that great.
Buy on:
NIXY Newport
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For those looking for a beginner-friendly paddleboard that doesn’t break the bank, look no further than the NIXY Newport! NIXY is a reliable brand, and for beginners, NIXY Newport is a must-have. This recreational SUP has amazing maneuverability. During testing, I was able to stand up and maneuver my way stably. Not to mention, this paddleboard is extremely rigid and sturdy.
In addition to that, this paddleboard has a pretty high weight capacity. It can accommodate a weight of up to 300 lbs, which should be enough for most. Despite that, it’s extremely lightweight. Carrying it to and from the water was like a walk in the park. On top of that, it’s available in several different designs. However, my favorite has to be Maui. Plus, did you know that NIXY also makes some amazing paddleboards for lakes? Go check them out!
Pros
- Despite its rigidity, it’s extremely lightweight.
- The included pump is of high quality and easy to use.
- It has a high weight capacity.
Cons
- This paddleboard’s middle fin can only be used along with standard US fins.
Buy on:
GILI Meno
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Most Stable. When it comes to stability, I think GILI Meno is the best. With a 35-inch body, this paddleboard is incredibly wide. Actually, it’s one of the widest paddleboards on the market. THERE WAS VIRTUALLY NO WOBBLE when I was using this paddleboard. Of course, I fell a few times, but that was because of my lack of skills. However, I couldn’t discredit the stability it offered me. I’m sure all beginners will be able to easily stand up and paddle even though it’s their first time.
Now, let’s talk about the traction pad! This paddleboard comes with a diamond rear tail pad that offers an impressive amount of traction. Combine that with the best shoes for paddleboarding, and I’m sure you won’t fall as often as I did. Also, it comes complete with a bag that has tons of pockets, wheels, and comfortable straps. There’s even a dedicated pocket for fins, so you’ll never forget to bring them along with you again.
Pros
- There are multiple colors to choose from.
- This paddleboard is exceptionally wide and stable.
- It has plenty of space, allowing you to bring your extra gear or little kid along with you.
Cons
- It may be a bit too pricey for some people.
Buy on:
THURSO SURF Waterwalker 126
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Best Construction. While there are so many amazing paddleboards for beginners on the market, the THURSO SURF Waterwalker 126 has to be one of the most well-constructed options. I found the Waterwalker 126 to be extremely rigid. Though I only had the chance to spend a day with it, I can confidently say that it can withstand plenty of seasons to come. Also, no scrapes and punctures can damage this beast.
The shape of this paddleboard is great for beginners. Despite being a little bit faster than some options out there, it offers amazing maneuverability and stability. It also doesn’t offer a steep learning curve to beginners, which is a huge plus. Thanks to this paddleboard, I’m sure you’ll ace your learning process. Learn more about this paddleboard by visiting its official product page!
Pros
- This is one of the most robust paddleboards available on the market.
- It’s stable enough for beginners without sacrificing stability and speed.
- The quality of the included accessories is great.
Cons
- I found it a bit heavy.
Buy on:
GILI Air
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GILI is one of the best paddleboard brands on the market, and this model right here is certainly worth the recognition. At 32 inches wide, GILI Air has the perfect body for beginners learning how paddleboard properly. Using this paddleboard isn’t too hard but offers enough room for beginners to grow their skills. After using this paddleboard, I can say that I love its stability. I found it easy to maneuver on the water even though I wasn’t as experienced.
Another thing worth mentioning is its construction. With a single-layer construction, this beginner stand-up paddle board isn’t the stiffest choice. However, this allows the board to be more lightweight than many others. My favorite color of this paddleboard is the blue variant. But if blue isn’t your color, there are still many other vibrant options to choose from. Also, it comes complete with all the accessories you need. For more options from GILI, check out its official website!
Pros
- It’s available at an affordable price.
- The deck pad offers enough traction for most people.
- Its upgraded shape allows it to be faster without losing stability.
Cons
- This isn’t the best option for larger paddleboarders.
Buy on:
ISLE Pioneer
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Best Brand. The ISLE Pioneer is available at a reasonable price for beginners without sacrificing performance. While it has a lot to bring to the table, the highlight of this paddleboard is its stability. During testing, it offered me an unbelievable amount of stability. With a 32-inch wide body, I was able to feel like I was a pro. It may not be affordable, but for what it offers, I think this paddleboard is worth the money for serious beginners.
Don’t worry! Though it’s wide, this paddleboard is still relatively lightweight. Weighing 24 lbs, I didn’t have a problem carrying it by myself. Also, dual PVC layers make this paddleboard extremely rigid and durable. Lastly, have fun choosing which color suits you best! The Aqua variant looks the coolest to me, but the rest are just as good-looking. By the way, the ISLE Pioneer is also listed on the best paddleboards for rivers, so make sure to read the list as well.
Pros
- There’s a big and soft deck pad for your gear.
- For its size, this paddleboard is surprisingly lightweight.
- It comes with a kit of accessories.
Cons
- The deck pad doesn’t provide that much traction.
Buy on:
Bluefin Cruise
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Best Accessories. Offering enough stability for beginners, the Bluefin Cruise is flooded with thousands of positive reviews on Amazon. Despite its big size, this paddleboard is aerodynamic. When I tested this beginner stand-up paddle board, I was able to paddleboard quite fast without ditching stability. For my safety, I also used the included coiled ankle leash.
Speaking of which, this paddleboard takes the included accessories to a whole new level. Everything is of high quality. In addition to the standard accessories like a paddle, pump, and backpack, it also comes with a waterproof phone case. Oh, this paddleboard is also included in our list of the best stand-up paddleboards for surfing, so feel free to read it!
Pros
- This paddleboard is backed by a five-year warranty.
- It comes complete with a set of accessories, including a waterproof phone case.
- The durability of this paddleboard is top-notch.
Cons
- The paddle doesn’t have a length indicator.
Buy on:
iROCKER Nautical
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Best Overall. When it comes to the best beginner SUP, the iROCKER Nautical takes the cake. As a casual paddleboarder, I found this paddleboard to be extremely lightweight. And with a 32-inch wide body, I was able to have fun on the water without falling multiple times. It’s an exceptionally stable option that won’t intimidate first-timers.
“This is a sturdy, lightweight, and stable option that won’t disappoint. Beginners like me will finally have the chance to paddleboard with confidence.”
WOW Travel
Also, I was impressed by the paddleboard’s rigidity. Though not the most expensive option, it has better rigidity than the others around the same price range. This is because it has dual PVC layers instead of one. Hence, I think this is a nice paddleboard for heavier individuals, too. Not to mention, there are multiple different colors to choose from. But the blue variant is definitely the best one!
Pros
- It’s a nice option for beginners who want something wallet-friendly.
- This paddleboard is stable enough for most beginners.
- You’ll also get the same accessories as the brand’s more premium paddleboards.
Cons
- It takes a while to inflate the paddleboard.
Buy on:
Our Verdict!
Wide, rigid, and lightweight, the iROCKER Nautical is my favorite on this list. It checks all the right boxes without breaking your wallet. But not everyone has the same preferences. So, I’ve categorized some of the paddleboards above according to the following criteria, so make sure to take another look at them!
- Best Accessories: Bluefin Cruise
- Best Brand: ISLE Pioneer
- Best Construction: THURSO SURF Waterwalker 126
- Most Stable: GILI Meno
How To Choose The Best Standup Paddleboards for Beginners
When choosing the best paddleboard for beginners, there are a few important things to consider. They include:
Stability
Stability should be the main feature to consider when you want to get the best stand-up paddle board for beginner. A wider paddleboard is always more stable than a narrower one because it has a bigger surface area. Most beginners should be comfortable with a 32-inch wide paddleboard.
Material
Most of the paddleboards on our list are inflatable ones. They’re not only cheaper but also more convenient to use. That said, strong inflatable paddleboards are usually made using high-quality PVC. So, make sure to check the material used and look at the seams’ strength.
Price
When it comes to a beginner-friendly paddleboard, you don’t have to spend a lot unless you really want to. Many high-quality paddleboards for beginners are reasonably priced but still offer premium features.
Are stand-up paddle boards easy to use?
I think most people can agree that stand-up paddleboarding is a relatively easy sport. It doesn’t take a long time for one to be a pro.
What style of SUP would be most suitable for a beginner?
Getting an all-around paddleboard or something specifically designed for beginners is always recommended.
Do paddle boards flip easily?
It depends on the condition of the water. Also, normally, inflatable paddleboards won’t flip that easily.
