Everyone has the right to fun, isn’t it? When we talk about fun, paddleboarding easily makes it right to the top of the activities that offer out-of-this-world experiences. Plus, unlike most adventures, paddleboarding doesn’t even put a cap on the max age for stepping into it. Like, you may be threescore or ten and decide to take your baby steps in paddleboarding for the first time now. Literally, nothing can stop you if – and that’s a big “if” – you’ve got one of the best paddleboards for beginners to bolster and hold you up on the thrilly maiden journey!
Moving on, we’ve tried and tested several paddleboards for starters in our group over the years. Yes, many were lousy, but some options turned out to be incredible fits too! So, considering that most people find it challenging to choose the best SUPs to match their skill level, we decided to compile this exclusive roundup for beginners in paddleboarding. Alright, without further ado, let’s get right into it!
Table of contents
- Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board
- CADALENE Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Highpi Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- BEYOND MARINA Inflatable Paddle Board
- ADVENOR Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Solstice Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Jiubenju Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- YASKA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Bluefin Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- PORTAL SUP Inflatable Paddle Board
- VoltSurf Inflatable Paddle Board
- Runwave Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Paddleboards for Beginners
- Is it worth buying a cheap paddleboard?
- Is paddle boarding easy or hard?
- Will I fall in paddle boarding?
Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board
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Known for a smooth and hassle-free ride, let’s discuss the outstanding specs of the Surfstar Inflatable Paddle Board! So, first of all, we loved the toughness! The paddle board is meant to last, thanks to the double-layer PVC and drop-stitch core! Besides that, the magnificent footing platform allows for better stability and control for newbies taking baby steps in paddling. There’s more! The SUP features advanced technology with its enhanced fiberglass paddle, giving us power and steadiness. This UV-stabilized fiberglass paddle proved tough as boots; however, lighter than aluminum paddles.
In addition, the board has a mount for a sports camera, which is the icing on the cake. It let us capture all those amazing maneuvers, crazy belly flops, and huge wipeouts, you see. All in all, it has been an awesome choice!
To choose from a range of options, see the original brand site!
Pros
- It is pretty lightweight and easily portable.
- The package offers a complete set of accessories.
- The SUP is good for various water activities.
Cons
- It has limited color options, restricting customization.
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CADALENE Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Loved by youth and adults equally, the CADALENE paddle board has made its way into our good books with its next-level performance! The board is made from high-quality PVC material that bestows it with a firm and sturdy construction. Plus, the lightness and extreme portability made a lasting impression on us. We were able to transport the thing with ease thanks to the collapsible, ergonomic design.
Moving on, unlike many run-of-the-mill options, the SUP is versatile and provides fun with a range of activities, including fishing, surfing, touring, and so on. It has a comfortably wide deck for novices to learn paddling with freedom and without fear of tipping over. So, all of that, plus the budget-friendly price, no doubt, make it a pretty worthwhile choice!
P.S. Check out the best paddleboards for the ocean in case you’re interested!
Pros
- The board comes with a full paddling kit.
- It has precise fin locations for the best control.
- The SUP is good for all sorts of waters.
Cons
- A user reported a cosmetic defect on the bottom.
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Highpi Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Best Quality. A no-brainer choice for beginners in paddling, the Highpi Inflatable SUP has got multiple customer-oriented features that won us over in the blink of an eye! Firstly, what impressed us what the amazing weight capacity of up to 350 pounds which meant we could go paddling with the doggo or a child. Then, the soft anti-slip deck ensured top-level stability, which is exactly what newbies are after, right?
Aside from that, this SUP has a long and lasting life, springing from high-quality military-grade PVC material. So, of course, that makes it a worthwhile asset for most surfing and paddling enthusiasts wanting a low-on-price and high-on-quality option! Not only that, the entire package is super cost-effective, loaded with everything you need for full-blown action on your chosen waters – sea, lakes, rapids, whatever! We highly recommend it!
Pros
- It’s portable and only weighs about 20 pounds.
- The manufacturer offers a generous one-year warranty!
- The kit comes in an all-purpose dry bag.
Cons
- The high-pressure pump may not last long!
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DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Are you looking for a paddle board that will make your water excursions more convenient and fun? Check out what we call the superhero of SUPs, the DAMA Inflatable SUP! The DAMA paddle board is engineered to make its way through any water obstacles that may come up, owing to its hard-wearing, premium PVC material. Tough as nails, it can easily support up to 330 pounds, so a fitting option for bulky beginners! Furthermore, the board is versatile and facilitates yoga sessions, fishing trips, or even a joyride with children or furry companions.
Additionally, it functions just as well in saltwater as it does in freshwater, providing countless opportunities for aquatic exploration. A user-oriented option, it took us only ten minutes to blow it up, and we were ready to hit the water. Not only that, the deflation was also super quick (five minutes)! Fitted with D-rings for no-hassle carriage, this board has all that it takes for a seamless paddling experience!
Also, here’s our expert guide on the best river paddleboards.
Pros
- You can record epic moments with the camera mount.
- The brand offers a one-year warranty.
- It’s a full set, with all the essential paddling gear!
Cons
- A user reported minor quality issues.
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BEYOND MARINA Inflatable Paddle Board
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Best Value for Money. You see, we were looking for something light yet tough. The seemingly never-ending wild-goose chase eventually stopped when we found the Beyond Marina Paddleboard! The iSUP is made from a premium-quality PVC and polyester 1000-D fabric concoction. The woven drop-stitch and fusion-tech composite layers enhance the board’s firmness, stability, and balance. Moreover, it’s a good-for-all option. It fits the bill for youngsters and adults looking for a safe and innovative paddling platform that responds intelligently.
Moving on, when on the go, we needed a safe place to store our gear. Luckily, the board features six inserted D-rings where we could stow the stuff. On the other hand, the ankle leash kept us connected to the board in case we slipped off. Finally, adding to the lovely features, the Hulk-like weight capacity of 308 pounds topped off this product’s stellar user-friendliness!
Check out the review by Modern Canine on YouTube!
Pros
- You get a sturdy and spacious SUP bag.
- It’s a complete package with a two-year warranty.
- The design offers good speediness.
Cons
- A customer reported quality issues with the pump.
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ADVENOR Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Steady and tough, we found the ADVENOR Inflatable SUP ever ready to make a splash! This high-end inflatable board takes balance to a whole new level with its extra-wide and longer design! Plus, the non-slip EVA deck pad does an excellent job of countering roguish currents. However, what impressed us even more, was the light and portable make! It was a breeze to carry the thing from the garage to the car and from the car to the shore. Also, with this SUP, we experienced unparalleled speed – skimming through the water with swag and style like never before.
Adding to that, the accurate control over the ride that comes with three detachable bottom fins was another huge plus point for the beginners in our tour group. So, all of that together, plus the versatility and good-for-all quality, presented us with a passport to have unlimited fun on the water staying within the cocoon of safety and comfort!
Pros
- The aluminum paddle is hard and effective.
- It’s a complete kit, packed with top-tier accessories.
- The SUP boasts a weight capacity of 330 lbs.
Cons
- Being ultra-wide, it’s not the speediest option!
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Solstice Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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A super-fast option, great for paddlers of all skill levels, the Solstice Inflatable SUP passed muster as an all-rounder SUP for us! The board is constructed from heavy-duty PVC fabric for long and lasting life. Plus, the six-inch deep core endows the board with the amazing capacity to absorb casual or hard bumps of paddleboarding at a rocky beach. Furthermore, we loved the incredible stability that comes with the generously wide and balanced design, cut out to take on the high tide.
So, this stability is what lets the SUP claim a decisive spot among the top paddleboards for beginners. But, of course, other than that, it’s a rich package that offers good value for the buck, supplying you with a full kit inclusive of a high-pressure pump, a gauge, and a dry carry bag! So, hands down, our verdict is in its favor!
See the official website of Solstice for more exciting options!
Pros
- It’s a good option for heavy paddlers.
- The SUP is attractive enough to put on a show.
- It’s a packable and portable option.
Cons
- When inflated, it’s heavier than its counterparts.
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Jiubenju Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Best Rigidity. An ideal fit for a ruthless paddling ride, the Jiubenju Inflatable SUP proved an evergreen option for an adventurous lifestyle! The SUP is created from premium-quality PVC, featuring a drop-stitch construction. Of course, that provides a tough and uncompromising platform to the newbie paddlers! Apart from that, this SUP has a remarkable capacity to support as much as 308 pounds – again, a plus point for heavy beginners that need extra support.
Moving on, we were able to easily transform the board into a kayak, as it contains a seat-attachment option so that you can sit on top and enjoy an intense kayaking session! That’s not all. The paddleboard comes with a fully equipped, high-value kit ready to take you for a thrilling ride through white water rapids or the gigantic ocean! So, what else could you possibly ask for?
Feel free to go through the best surfing SUPs as well. You might find the one that fits your bill there.
Pros
- The SUP features a non-slip deck pad.
- It ensures the best durability and toughness.
- It’s suited to all skill levels – not just novices.
Cons
- The shape is narrow, so not the stablest option.
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YASKA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Offering us a fast-track experience at the best stability, the YASKA Inflatable SUP passed the grade as a flawless board for beginners! Where the slender design guaranteed a quick ride, being a generously thick and wide construction, this PVC board ensured awesome balance as well as resistance to the elements. What’s more, the robust multilevel construction of meticulous hand-sewn stitches provided the SUP with durability that’s rare to find these days. Expanding further on the strength, the high-quality drop-stitch core can also withstand tremendous pressure without a trace of damage!
Moving on, the board is no less than a work of art that is carefully crafted to supply you with a wonderful time on all sorts of waters like whitewater rapids, wavy seas, and still lakes. Finally, featuring a friction-friendly EVA surface to prevent slips, nothing stops this option from being among the top paddleboards for learners!
Pros
- The package has a high-capacity pump.
- With a strategic center fin, the board gives you maneuverability.
- It’s a good option for the money!
Cons
- Due to larger dimensions, it may be kind of heavy.
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Bluefin Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
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Best Versatility. We loved the Bluefin Inflatable SUP! Not only because it’s an affordable choice but also a family-oriented, sustainable option good for beginners in paddling! Thanks to its ergonomic design, the board is lightweight and easy to carry. However, at the same time, it’s incredibly durable and lasting because of the robust PVC make and drop-stitch construction. Furthermore, the kayak conversion feature makes it a win-win for all those wanting to try their luck with kayaking. Plus, the D-rings can be used for adjusting a kayaking seat and other necessary gear during a freestyle ride. That’s not all. It’s overall a pretty cost-effective package inclusive of so many top-of-the-line accessories like a high-capacity pump, a coiled leash, and more. So, of course, it’s a big yes from us!
Pros
- The board has a camera mount for shooting!
- It’s 45% lighter than other options.
- The shape is stable for kids as well as adults.
Cons
- A user said that the SUP showed paint brush marks.
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PORTAL SUP Inflatable Paddle Board
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Designed for phenomenal performance, the PORTAL Inflatable SUP provides newbies in paddling with a sharp balance! The board is made from high-quality PVC and boasts a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. Awesome, right? Moreover, we found the beginner-oriented design pretty useful. For example, the SUP has an anti-slip EVA deck which provided us with a great grip during the ride – be it on the ocean, fast rivers, or still lakes! Furthermore, this SUP is easy to inflate (and deflate), fun to steer with innovative detachable fins, and a breeze to carry. That makes it a very convenient overall option for those who have no idea what it’s like to deal with a paddleboard. Finally, with excellent maneuverability and so many high-end, smart features, this option stands out from the crowd and outshines most of its counterparts!
Pros
- The board comes with a paddle, pump, and more.
- It has a one-year manufacturer warranty.
- The D-rings allow you to store your gear safely.
Cons
- The color may rub off when you use it.
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VoltSurf Inflatable Paddle Board
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A high-quality, value-packed option, the VOLTSURF Inflatable SUP never fails to impress us whenever we go out surfing or paddleboarding! The board obviously makes a top option for beginners for supreme rigidity and next-level tensile strength. Moreover, constructed from military-grade PVC with a drop-stitch core and UV-coated deck, you can expect long-term use and remarkably long life. Furthermore, it’s an aesthetically attractive option that will entice newbies to try it out, igniting their paddling passion. Another feature we liked was the ultimate package, which includes everything from a dual-action pump that reduces the pumping effort to an adjustable paddle that improves maneuverability. So, considering the awesome features, it’s definitely among our top recommendations!
Pros
- The pump has a gauge for precise measurement.
- The fins are easy to install.
- Everything comes in a durable backpack!
- Go over the reviews and testimonials on VOLTSURF’s official site!
Cons
- The board might show wear and tear with repeat use.
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Runwave Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
1
Best Overall. The RUNWAVE Inflatable Paddle Board is the ideal partner for water lovers seeking unending enjoyment! To begin with, we loved everything about the rare piece! It’s not only lightweight but also built to survive under the toughest circumstances as a result of the premium PVC material used in its construction. Besides featuring the hardest drop-stitch materials and a high-intensity layer for maximum air holding, we knew from the onset that this was going to be a sturdy and hard-wearing choice!
The Runwave SUP makes a perfect stepping stone for starters. It’s stable, speedy and supportive of rising talent. But, that’s not to say that it’s not a fit for pros. Because, believe it or not, it actually is!
WOW Travel
What’s more, the distinctive non-slip top deck on the board was a sign of relief for the newbies riding with us since it provided them with a firm footing. Furthermore, the foot leash takes up the safety by a notch in case of a clumsy wipeout. On top of that, offering great balance and stability with a large deck, the SUP leaves us no choice but to include it in our top recommendations straight away!
Pros
- The board is easy to carry and highly portable.
- It offers a seamless inflation process.
- The package is all-Inclusive, packed with all the gear.
Cons
- It has a limited range of color options.
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Our Verdict!
We’ve selected the Runwave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board as our Best Overall choice, given the stellar features and user-focused make. However, there are other best options that we’ve chosen based on some top features. Here they are!
- Best value for money: BEYOND MARINA Inflatable Paddle Board
- Best quality: Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Best rigidity: Jiubenju Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Best versatility: Bluefin Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
How To Choose The Best Paddleboards for Beginners
When choosing the best paddleboards for surfing or paddling, there are some key factors to consider so that you can make the best choice. When we were on the hunt for the best available option for newbies in paddleboarding, we kept in mind the following points. Take a look!
Stability
Of course, that’s something a beginner will clearly look for. So, to make sure that our boards were stable and solid like a rock, we double-checked the claims and even talked with experts. That’s what you must do, too, in order to provide newbies with the confidence they need in the early learning stages!
Weight Capacity
The more weight a paddleboard can handle, the better. That’s to accommodate paddlers of all weights as well as different skill levels. Because, of course, SUPs with a better load capacity are hard to flip or drown!
Versatility
Finally, we made sure that the options we picked were all versatile enough to cater to the needs of both young and adult paddlers. A versatile paddleboard will enable starters to try new stuff like surfing, fishing, and yoga without limiting their potential to paddling.
Is it worth buying a cheap paddleboard?
If low cost doesn’t mean low quality, then it’s a good deal for a beginner. However, cheap SUPs usually don’t last long enough. If you plan on holding on to your SUP for years, you might as well spend some more in exchange for better quality.
Is paddle boarding easy or hard?
Learning to ride a paddleboard is not that difficult. In fact, experts say that you can learn to paddle a SUP in no time if you’re willing to put in the effort.
Will I fall in paddle boarding?
Casual falls are natural for beginners in paddleboarding. In fact, pro-level paddlers also take a plunge from time to time. That’s nothing to worry about!