Different sorts of water bodies offer different experiences with paddleboarding. You may be aware of that if you go paddling routinely like us. (Well, do you?) So, out of all waters, the sea is hands down the most challenging when it comes to paddling. The reason is, of course, the mighty currents that the ocean pulsates with. That means unless you have got firm sea legs, the waves will be tossing you here and there. But the experience also largely depends on the quality of the equipment you use. And this leads us to ocean paddleboards!
Well, not all paddleboards are the same. We found that the hard way. You don’t need to. Basically, SUPs engineered specifically for the ocean are the only lifeline you have for a true paddling session on the ocean. These boards have the built-in quality to take on the thrashing waves, stay balanced and withstand the salty water plus sunlight all day long. Since choosing the right option is a headache, we’ve done all the research and experiment work for you. All you have got to do is go through the ultimate roundup below and choose your pick!
Table of contents
- Swonder Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Blue Water Toys Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Cressi Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Roc Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- iROCKER Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Hurley PhantomTour Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Crew Axel Inflatable Paddle Board
- Weekender-Tour Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard
- MYBOAT Inflatable Paddle Board
- GILI Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Adventum Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
- Valwix Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Our Verdict!
- How to Choose the Best Ocean Paddleboards
- Does salt water damage the paddleboard?
- Is it hard to paddleboard in waves?
- Can a paddle board sink?
Swonder Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
13
Best Performance. Not only is the Swonder Inflatable SUP an ocean-wise answer, but it’s also extremely well-suited to lakes and riparian zones! Well, the board has several promising features that made us fall in love with it. So, to begin with, it features remarkable control that comes with the three strategic fins and a high-tech, sleek design engineered to take on menacing waves. Besides that, we liked the generously wide and stable deck. It provided us with a solid and uncompromising footing, and the newbies in our group found it a lot of help.
What’s more, given that SUPs are a sizable investment for most of us, this option is highly durable and will continue to provide value for many years. The reason behind the longevity is the top-grade PVC construction. With double-layered walls, casual bumps won’t be any damage, plus repeat use will be nothing to worry about! Needless to say, it makes one of the best ocean paddleboards!
Check out the detailed review by Reviews Unscripted on YouTube!
Pros
- The SUP is lightweight and easy to transport.
- It comes with a full kit, including a paddle and pump.
- The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.
Cons
- The manual pump surely takes some elbow grease.
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Blue Water Toys Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Function over form, the Blue Water Toys SUP has been a top option for us for crazy oceanic ventures! Made from military-grade polypropylene, the SUP is a highly durable product and offers a rock-solid platform. So much so that when on the move, we felt like we were riding hardboard and not an inflatable one! Anyway, moving on, the board also features a drop-stitch construction which ensures durability, while the honeycomb EVA padding provides a full shield against the elements like the sun!
To talk of performance, the board is versatile and well-suited to a variety of water sports, including kayaking, fishing, paddling, surfing, etc. Furthermore, we were impressed by the rich SUP kit that came with the board. It incorporated everything that we needed for an all-out paddling experience, for example, cutting-edge fins, a convertible paddle, a seat, a pressure pump, and much more!
Pros
- The detachable fins offer max maneuverability.
- It comes with a two-year warranty.
- The board is good for all skill levels.
Cons
- The paddle may not be the best for kayaking.
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Cressi Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Best Quality. Made with the objective of top-notch performance, ease of use, and versatility, the Cressi Inflatable SUP fits the bill for all paddling enthusiasts! The board is constructed from high-quality plastic that guarantees unmatched soundness and lasting performance. Further, the wide and perfectly curved shape provides maximum balance – offering awesome stability on high tide. That makes it a great choice for beginners, of course. Moreover, we loved the thick layer of transparent PVC, which allowed the board to stay fit as a fiddle no matter how many times we used it – or hit the rocks while surfing.
That’s not all. Coming from a brand that has been serving the water sports industry for decades, you can expect next-level quality and customer service from the manufacturer. So, precisely, the board comes with a complete paddling kit, including all the necessary accessories that you need for a full-bore thrill. Plus, you get a two-year warranty!
Pros
- It’s a user-friendly, ultra-portable option.
- The board is speedy, maneuverable, and stable.
- You get good value for the buck!
- For a better variety of options, check out the official website of Cressi!
Cons
- The design is not trendy, but rather minimalist.
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Roc Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Best Value for Money. The Roc Inflatable SUP is a super cool alternative for paddleboarding fans on a tight budget! As a matter of fact, we have rarely seen so much value coming at this fairly affordable price. Promising quality and durability, this SUP is built with the highest grade PVC material that supplies the board with a 50% stronger construction than its competitors. In addition to that, the incredibly astonishing weight limit of 350 pounds was another awesome feature that bowled us over – considering we had a bunch of heavy riders with us!
On top of that, it’s a speedy yet stable board featuring an extra wide deck and a sleek shape. That means it’s a perfect thing for beginners as well as pro-level riders. Also, not to forget, the manufacturer offers a two-year warranty so that you can rest assured you are fully covered in case of a quality lapse. Bringing in all the essential gear, we are sure you’ll treasure the experience like us!
Feel free to see the customer reviews on the official brand site!
Pros
- You get a high-capacity inflation pump.
- Everything comes in a handy, waterproof travel bag.
- The detachable fins make navigation a breeze.
Cons
- Pumping it up is, no doubt, a tough job!
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iROCKER Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Check out the light, modernistic iROCKER Inflatable SUP! This board is the ultimate wallet-friendly option for those not wanting to compromise on fun. The nautical board has average speed, fair stability, and above-average maneuverability. We particularly loved the tough design. Made from top-of-the-line PVC material, the board can stand years of rough use. Apart from that, with this SUP, the options are endless as you can paddle at sea, indulge in yoga poses, and cruise with kids as well as furry friends.
Moreover, the adjustable travel paddle simply stole the show. We wondered whether it was made of fairy dust because it’s so light and floats but also provides decisive control over the ride! The hand pump with an integrated pressure gauge also did a quick inflation job (seven to ten minutes). Another best aspect is the 1-year warranty and the premium-quality stuff that comes with the package. All in all, with this option, our money was well-spent!
Pros
- It provides hassle-free transportability.
- The seller’s customer service is pretty responsive.
- The carry bag is convertible into a wheel bag.
Cons
- The SUP might not be the top choice design-wise!
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Hurley PhantomTour Stand-Up Paddle Board
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We rate the Hurley Phantom Tour SUP as the perfect sail when setting out on an exciting aquatic journey! In simple words, this 10′ 6″ inflatable SUP is not a typical board. Equipped to handle any adversity on the water, it’s always turned out our best buddy whenever we hit the beach. Made from a potent blend of a bunch of first-rate materials, it’s hard-wearing yet exceptionally balanced. Plus, offering a variety of entertainment, including racing, touring, fishing, yoga, surfing, etc., this option easily stands out in terms of versatility. (P.S. For fishing freaks, here’s the roundup on fishing paddleboards.)
Moving on, it is highly portable and lightweight, so carrying it to the car and then to the shore was no big deal for us. Adding to that, the board comes with a hikeable waterproof utility backpack as well as a dry bag for no-hassle transportation of the all-inclusive paddling kit! So, looking at all the high-value features, we truly recommend it as the best paddleboard for ocean fun!
Pros
- It is best for all skill-level paddlers.
- The board offers a load capacity of over 280 pounds!
- It guarantees you durability and longevity.
Cons
- This SUP has limited customization options.
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Crew Axel Inflatable Paddle Board
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An all-rounder and all-season option, the Crew Axel iSUP offered us next-level adventure in the middle of the ocean! Constructed from premium-quality PVC, it’s a naturally robust and lasting option. Plus, the make is tough as a hardshell and resists likely punctures that the stony sea floor might cause. Aside from being tough, the board possesses a remarkable weight capacity of 340 pounds. That was a jaw-dropping feature for us – considering the light body of only 18 pounds.
Also, being light, the carriage was no sweat for us. In fact, the entire kit rolled up into one carry bag, and we were ready to go. Mentioning the kit, what does it include? So, you get a double-action, high-pressure pump with comfy hand grips, four D-rings, a camera mount, a floating paddle, etc. With all of that, plus the high-performance fins, make no mistake – the SUP offers value that’s a rarity to find these days!
Pros
- The broad deck has sufficient stability.
- Everything comes in an all-purpose dry bag.
- You get a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- You may find the customer service unsatisfactory.
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Weekender-Tour Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard
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For an unbridled, freestyle paddling session on the ocean, the Weekender-Tour iSUP proved a perfect fit! The inflatable SUP is ultra strong and tough, like a bull, constructed from top-tier PVC material. In fact, don’t ask how many we bumped into low-lying rocks, but to our amazement, the SUP turned out a hard nut! This amazing strength allows the board to support as much as 275 pounds without any trouble. Furthermore, the stability and striking a balance on the rocky waters stunned us right away!
Of course, with a thoughtful design featuring a comfortable EVA deck, the board naturally becomes super stable and firm. So, considering that, yes, it’s a great option for those stepping into paddling for the first time! Aside from that, we found the package rich and cost-effective, containing everything we required for plenty of joy on the vast ocean!
Pros
- The board is lightweight and easily portable.
- It comes with a telescopic paddle and an efficient pump!
- Built for family fun, the board is dog-friendly.
Cons
- The package doesn’t include an ankle safety leash.
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MYBOAT Inflatable Paddle Board
5
Being a state-of-the-art model, the MYBOAT Inflatable Paddle Board sees to it that nothing gets in our way when it’s about paddle boarding at the beach! Well, this board comes with plenty of superb features. First, it’s an incredibly wide and firm SUP designed out of heavy-duty PVC for a rough and tough ride. Further, a grippy, non-slip deck upgrades the performance to another level. So, the safe footing and balanced design helped our group’s starters have a carefree cruise – and learn without fear of tipping!
Apart from that, the stellar weight capacity was a huge plus point for us. We wanted a sturdy board, and since it boasted supporting 350 lbs, it was a no-brainer pick! Not only that, the deck is pretty big too. That means with the D-rings on both sides; you can store the accessories with convenience. So, what’s the final word? Of course, it’s a yes from us!
Pros
- The board comes with a complete paddling kit.
- It’s a versatile option good for so many activities.
- It’s a sleek and speedy inflatable option.
Cons
- A user was disappointed with the safety leash.
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GILI Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
4
A representation of cutting-edge design and vast surface area, the GILI Inflatable SUP has been among our personal favorites for ages now! The board is made from top-notch PVC, which is, of course, the reason why it’s so tough and rigid, like a hardboard once inflated. Plus, it’s so huge that it can accommodate a family of two to five people easily. In fact, we rode the mighty thing with our friends and a doggo for a full hour. Aside from the brilliant capacity, the SUP is extremely stable and balanced due to the carefully engineered design that allows resilience in all sorts of conditions.
Furthermore, the board features several sweet spots for mounting your camera, in case you love shooting your adventures – well, we do! And there were multiple bungee attachments that held our gear while we paddled freely across the ocean. Finally, being a versatile option for fishing, surfing, and touring, it’s easily the best paddleboard for ocean zeal!
Pros
- The SUP features a grooved traction pad.
- It comes with all the necessary accessories.
- It’s simply an awesome package for the money.
Cons
- It needs maintenance to last long enough.
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Adventum Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
3
Best Strength! For a thrilling aquatic adventure, do not miss out on the Adventum Inflatable SUP! Reveling in the calm breeze of the ocean, we paddled this one for hours at a stretch! Built from heavy-duty PVC, the board comes with natural sturdiness and strength. Further, the top-notch SUP offers a captivating snakeskin design plus an affordable price – combining superb workmanship with a low price!
Besides that, the product came heavy with everything we needed for a full-blooded ride. So, the set included a carry bag for easy transportation, a paddle for navigating the waves, a safety leash to keep us from wandering off, a pump to efficiently inflate our board, and even a repair kit in case we had a less-than-pleasant encounter with a subtle sea creature! On top of all that, with a gigantic weight capacity of over 300 lbs, the Adventum SUP may be what you’re aiming for!
Go through more options on the official site!
Pros
- It is a reliable, risk-free investment.
- You get a one-year warranty on the board.
- The board offers rigidity and balance.
Cons
- Attaching a fin to it is quite difficult.
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Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
2
A heavy-duty PVC construction, the Bluefin Cruise SUP is so resilient that it could withstand an elephant stampede. Well, jokes apart, we found this option sturdy as a hard rock! It can hold 28 PSI and offer the most rigid ride among blow-up paddleboards. Also, the board offers a lasting shelf life due to the exo surface laminate technology and drop stitch. Wait, there’s more! Receiving high value for the money, we got a conversion kit for kayaks as well. So, in a matter of seconds, we went from standing to sitting and kayaking like a pro.
Furthermore, we found the brand’s commitment to the environment pretty considerate. They plant a tree upon every transaction. Great, isn’t it? What’s more, the SUP comes with crazy versatility fitting all skill levels and so many fun activities like fishing, floating, touring, etc. So, all in all, it’s nothing short of an ideal option!
Also, you can go through the best river paddleboards if you’re interested.
Pros
- It is lightweight with an ergonomic design.
- The board uses a smart lock fin for an improved glide.
- It’s a complete set with high-end accessories.
Cons
- It’s not the fastest SUP, in case you’re looking for one.
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Valwix Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
1
Best Overall. A user-oriented deal, we loved everything about the Valwix Inflatable SUP! Sharply balancing ourselves on top of this A-grade PVC structure, we paddled across the ocean with swag! Well, the board is cut out for an intense ride at full throttle. The strategic shape offers a balance that you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Aside from that, the board comes with an electric pump, so we were able to avoid the hard labor of a manual pump and hit the water in no time. Moreover, the Valwix SUP features an action camera attachment built right into it, making it ideal for our vlogging shenanigans.
A moderately priced SUP with some top-of-the-line features, we loved every aspect of Valwix Inflatable Stand Up. It has been a great sport so far. No brainer, we’ll use it again!
WOW Travel
Additionally, the board is versatile and good for all skill levels. With the extra-grippy EVA pad, wide deck, and generous size, it offers a comfy and roomy space for a range of hobbies, including yoga, fishing, or simple gliding. Plus, this board can withstand all types of water, from calm lakes to furious rivers. Also we were also impressed with flexible D-rings that allowed us to attach kayak seats, deck bags, and other equipment we needed for our fishing sessions. What’s the bottom line? It’s going to be a fitting thing when it’s performance and value that you’re after!
Pros
- It contains triple-layer PVC construction.
- The kit includes a dry bag, leash, repair gear, and pedal.
- It will ideally bear up to 350 lbs of load.
Cons
- Electric pump reliance can be risky in remote areas.
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Our Verdict!
Considering the affordability, value, and high-class performance, our Best Overall option is, of course, the Valwix Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board. But we’ve also chosen several other top options from the above round-up based on some specific key features. So, let’s have a look at them below!
- Best value for money: Roc Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Best quality: Cressi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Best strength: Adventum Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Best performance: Swonder Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
How to Choose the Best Ocean Paddleboards
Before finalizing the options, we took a deep dive into the specifications of each paddleboard. Only after thorough research did we come up with the final list. Looking back, it’s been a worthwhile effort, of course. Now what were the factors that we considered to make the best decisions? Let’s see them below!
Shape
The shape matters the most when it comes to paddleboarding on the ocean. We looked for a wide, large deck cut out aerodynamically on the front for a stable yet free ride. That’s the model you must choose too for a cherishable experience paddleboarding at sea!
Load Limit
This depends on the precise weight you’re going to thrust down on the board. We made sure to pick boards that boasted a slightly greater weight capacity than what we wanted to stay on the safe side.
Price
Not all paddleboards cost the same, and matching the features with the price for each item takes a lot of effort. So, we talked with experts and shortlisted some of the best-priced options. As we reviewed the features, we kept only those that seemed like the perfect combination of value and performance and dropped the rest!
P.S. Do check out the guide on the best paddleboards for surfing. Of course, it will be a lot of help with ocean paddleboarding.
Does salt water damage the paddleboard?
Salt may corrode the material with time. It surely takes a toll. So, it’s best to rinse the paddleboard thoroughly with fresh water after you’ve used the SUP in salty water.
Is it hard to paddleboard in waves?
Experts say that taking a wave when you’re paddleboarding is easier compared to when you’re surfing. Because the board cuts through the wave and stays firm as you ride with the natural flow.
Can a paddle board sink?
Yes, a paddle board can sink if too much weight is loaded onto it. It can even sink when the load is not distributed evenly over the SUP.