The Best Inflatable SUP Boards for Every Water Adventure in 2024

Whether you’re looking to try surf, cruise your local lake or even try SUP yoga, these inflatable paddle boards are excellent options.

iStock

The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.

If you are a fan of adventure and love the idea of spending the day in nature exploring lakes, rivers or the ocean, inflatable stand up paddle boards (SUPs) may be a great fitness option for you. Not only does this activity provide the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, but it may offer health benefits including improving strength and balance.

First appearing as a recreational activity in Hawaii in the 1950s, standup paddle boarding combines the techniques of surfing and paddling. Today, there are a wide variety of paddle boards available for a range of activities including yoga, racing, fishing and general stand up paddle board fitness.

Paddle boards take up a large footprint, with many boards measuring 10 or 11 feet long. However, inflatable paddle boards can make paddle board fitness more convenient and easy to take with you on any adventure.

Inflatable paddle boards can roll up to fit in a backpack or carrying bag. They are often lightweight, while stable and durable at the same time. What should you look for in an inflatable paddle board and how do you find the one that’s right for you? Whether you’re looking for a beginner paddle board, a two-person paddle board or a great paddle board for yoga, this list will help you find the best paddle board for your preferences and budget.

Our Picks for the Best Inflatable Paddle Boards of 2024:

• Best Beginner Inflatable Paddle Board: Red Paddle Co Ride
• Best Budget Inflatable Paddle Board: Advenor Paddle Board 11-Foot x 33 x 6
• Best Rated Inflatable Paddle Board on Amazon: Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
• Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Stability: Bote Flood Aero 11-Foot
• Best Lightweight Inflatable Paddle Board: Pau Hana Solo Backcountry SUP
• Best Two-Person Inflatable Paddle Board: Body Glove 15-Foot Dynamic Deuce Inflatable Paddle Board
• Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Yoga: Advanced Elements Lotus Yoga
• Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Bigger People: Connelly Big Easy

Best Beginner Inflatable Paddle Board: Red Paddle Co Ride

REI

• Price: $1,199.13
• Weight: 20 pounds
• Dimensions: 10 feet six inches length, 32 inches mid, 4.7 inches thick, 4.5 inches fin length
• Weight capacity: 220 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features twin fins, a full length deck pad, three grip handles and three cargo bungees. It also comes with a paddle, coiled leash, Titan II pump and backpack.

Red Paddle Co’s Ride 10 feet six inch Inflatable Paddle Board is a durable and stable option for beginners, intermediate paddle boarders or those looking for an all-around reliable board for the family. In fact, Red says this is its most popular board.

The paddle board’s dimensions are designed to provide stability: It features a 10-foot six-inch length and 32-inch mid and is 4.7 inches thick. Its full-width deck pad provides traction with an extra-grippy texture that offers comfort and hold for whichever stance you use. In addition to stability, these dimensions were also selected to offer a good mix of glide, agility and speed.

At the back of the board you’ll find the inflation valve which was made for fast inflation and deflation. The board comes with a Titan II, a quality pump to get the job done. (The brand recommends 20 PSI for inflation.)

The board has three carry handles: A cushioned, ergonomic carry handle at the front of the board, one on the deck pad and one on the tail. The carry handle at the tail has a D-ring for the leash. The board also features three stretchy cargo straps. (The largest strap is fully adjustable.) The paddle board’s two tail fins feature the iFin System, a durable, tooless fin system.

The Ride comes with a three-piece adjustable paddle, coiled leash and backpack for storage. The three-in-one backpack makes portability easy, and can be used as rolling luggage, a backpack or a bagless harness. The two reviewers on the REI website both love the carrying bag. One reviewer says, “The carrying bag is really well made and I LOVE that it's got wheels.” The other reviewer says, “The new bag is amazing, love that I can separate the carrying system from the main bag. Makes it much easier to get to the beach.”

Meanwhile reviewers on the Red Equipment website give this inflatable paddle board 4.5 out of five stars overall. “Just love it, quality board, quality pump, quality bag… you get what you pay for,” says one reviewer on the Red Equipment site.

Pros:

• Stable option for beginners
• Comes with excellent carry bag
• Comes with Titan II pump for easily inflation
• Five-year warranty
• Comes in two colors: blue or purple

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not recommended for those over 220 pounds

Related Post: The Best Trail Running Shoe for Every Runner

Best Budget Inflatable Paddle Board: Advenor Paddle Board 11-Foot x 33 x 6

Amazon

• Price: $186.98
• Weight: The brand doesn’t release a specific weight for the board itself, but the package weight is 27.99 pounds
• Dimensions: 11 feet length, 33 inches width and 6 inches thickness
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Key features: This board features an EVA grip deck, one carry grip handle, D-ring at the tail and three fins. It comes with an adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, backpack, repair kit and waterproof cellphone bag

If you are looking for a wide paddle board, but are on a budget, Advenor Paddle Board 11-foot x 33 x 6 may be a good fit. At only $186.98, this 33-inch wide board provides stability and balance for a great price.

At the front of the board a criss-crossed bungee tie-down provides a secure storage option. The deck of this Advenor Paddle Board features a non-slip EVA pad to provide a good amount of grip and support high pressure. There’s also a carry grip handle on the deck pad.

At the tail of the board you’ll find the air valve for inflating the board. The board comes with a double action hand pump for quick and easy inflation. The D-ring for securing your leash is also at the tail of the board. This board features three fins on the underside: two removable side fins and a large removable center fin.

The board also comes with several accessories including an adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, backpack, repair kit and waterproof cellphone bag. One Amazon reviewer comments on the accessories, saying “Love the accessories as they are very practical and useful to both beginners and novice paddle-boarders.”

Reviewers on Amazon give this inflatable paddle board 4.6 out of five stars total, saying it is sturdy, stable and easy to inflate. One reviewer says, “This paddle board seems sturdy, durable and looks to be made pretty well.” Another reviewer says, “Full disclosure, this isn’t an expensive paddle board. But for the price I’d say this board is pretty outstanding. It’s a good length, width, depth, it holds air, appears well constructed (no leaks yet!) and is pretty stable.”

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Extra-wide design for stability and balance
• Comes with a wide range of accessories
• Available in three colors

Cons:

• Some reviewers say air valve can be leaky

Best-Rated Inflatable Paddle Board on Amazon: Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Amazon

• Price: $249.95—$299.95
• Weight: 17.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 120 inches x 33 inches x six inches
• Weight capacity: Some colors have a 350 pound weight capacity
• Key features: This board features EVA foam deck grip, one carry handle, storage bungees and three fins. It comes with a pump, adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, waterproof accessory bag and a carrying backpack

Looking for an attractive and affordable paddle board that can be used for a wide variety of activities from paddle board yoga to fishing to stand up paddle board fitness? This 10-foot tall, 33-inch wide, six-inch thick board is built with military-grade materials for durability and stability. It also comes in nine colors and is lightweight at only 17.5 pounds.

The board features an EVA foam deck for grip. Like most of the other paddle boards on this list, there’s also a carry handle on the deck pad. A criss-cross of bungees at the front of the board can be used for securing your things. Similarly to the Advenor Paddle Board, this board features three fins on the underside: two smaller outer fins and a larger removable inner fin that locks on. It also has the air valve and secure D-ring leash clip at the tail.

The paddle board comes with the accessories you need to get started on your paddle boarding journey. This includes a pump, adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, waterproof accessory bag and a carrying backpack.

Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards are not only affordable, but they are also the best rated paddle board on Amazon, earning 4.8 out of five stars overall, with over 88 percent of reviewers giving this board five stars. Reviewers say this board is highly durable, sturdy and stable. One reviewer says, “Our paddle board exceeded all expectations! It was sturdy, easy to inflate and most of all very light/easy to pack. We love this product and would recommend very highly!” Another reviewer shares, “This product is awesome! Rides like a dream :-) very easy to inflate and pack back into its bag when done.”

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Extra wide board for stability
• Made from durable military grade material
• Nine color choices
• Comes with a variety of accessories

Cons:

• Some reviewers say the accessories, including the pump, are lower quality

Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Stability: Bote Flood Aero 11-Foot

Backcountry

• Price: $809.10
• Weight: 28 pounds
• Dimensions: 11 feet tall, 32 inches wide, six inches thick
• Weight capacity: 275 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features a multi-textured deck pad, pointed nose and single 10-inch removable fin. It comes with a travel bag with backpack straps

Bote’s Flood Aero 11-foot paddle board is a stable, easy-to-use board with an efficient design that makes it a good choice whether you’re a beginner or intermediate paddle boarder. The paddle board has an entry rocker shape with an up pointed nose to help maneuver through the water. It’s designed to be used for leisure paddling, SUP fitness or fishing. It’s also a good choice for yoga on the water thanks to its 11-foot length which will give you plenty of room to practice your warrior poses and more.

The board features a full-length deck pad with traction along the entire board for grip throughout. This could be helpful if you want to share the board with a child who’s learning to paddle board (or even your dog).

It also features bungees at the front and rear of the board for securing your essentials. Bote Flood Aero has three fins, including a detachable center fin.

This military-grade single layer PVC board comes with most of the accessories you need to get started on the water, including a three-piece adjustable paddle, Aero repair kit, hand pump and travel bag. However, it does not come with a leash which Bote sells separately for $44. The board comes with two aesthetic design options, and both are unique and stylish.

Reviewers on the Bote website say this board is lightweight yet stable. One reviewer says, “Very good balance and design. Works great for the creek and river.” Another reviewer comments, “I was thoroughly impressed with the ease of inflation and stability of this paddle board. It’s hard to believe it’s something you can fit on your back yet in less than five minutes you're paddling on the water. Awesome and highly recommended.”

Pros:

• 11-foot length
• Full length deck pad traction
• Entry rocker shape
• 10-inch removable center fin for enhanced stability

Cons:

• Does not come with a leash

Best Lightweight Inflatable Paddle Board: Pau Hana Solo Backcountry SUP

REI

• Price: $1,249
• Weight: 14.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 10 feet 10 inches long, 30 inch mid, six inches thick
• Weight capacity: 240 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features a neoprene grab handle, front and rear five millimeter bungee tie downs, a textured PVC traction pad, D-ring, and two six-inch fins. It comes with a paddle (with rollable storage sleeve), pump, 50-liter dry-bag backpack, repair kit and accessory storage bag

This lightweight inflatable paddle board weighs only 14.8 pounds, so it’s easy to take with you wherever you travel. The board comes with a dry-bag backpack that features ergonomic shoulder straps with exterior gear loops, bungee tie downs and side mesh pockets, making portability and storage convenient. There’s also a zippered accessory bag that you can use for holding your repair kit and other essentials.

Key paddle board features include its textured PVC traction pad which offers plenty of grip, front and rear bungee tie downs for securing items and a reinforced D-ring for attaching your leash. The board’s two fins are simple to snap into place.

Besides the backpack, the Pau Hana Solo Backcountry SUP also comes with several accessories including a paddle, pump, leash and repair kit.

Reviewers on the REI website say that the board is great for portability. One reviewer says, “The Pau Hana Solo delivered on what I wanted it for—to let me paddle my favorite high mountain lakes that are miles from trailheads. The total size and weight of the Solo package is incredibly small compared to any SUP I've ever used. The board itself is very stable and maneuverable and the new paddle design works really well.”

Another reviewer comments, “While an interesting exercise in engineering, the paddle is by far the most notable nod towards weight and packability. That it can roll up into a package the size of a good baguette and still function as a paddle is impressive.”

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Comes with backpack for easy portability and storage
• Comes with a good variety of accessories

Cons:

• Some reviews say fins can get loose and fall out, making them easy to lose

Best Two-Person Inflatable Paddle Board: Body Glove 15-Foot Dynamic Deuce Inflatable Paddle Board

Dick’s Sporting Goods

• Price: $899.99
• Weight: 35 pounds
• Dimensions: 15 feet long, 34 inches mid, 5.4 inches thick
• Weight capacity: 500 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features a tow point nose, front cargo bungee cord, EVA traction pad, two carry handles and a D-ring attachment. It also comes with two four-piece paddles, two kayak seats, a hand pump, coil ankle leash, cell phone dry bag, repair kit and storage duffel.

At 15 feet long, this Body Glove 15-Foot Dynamic Deuce Inflatable Paddle Board is just the right size for a day of fun for two. This board gives you plenty of configuration options for two people. You can stand up paddle, sit down paddle or even use the board as a kayak. It comes with two removable kayak seats for extra versatility.

The board features a front cargo bungee, EVA traction pad for grip and two carry handles. The carry handles feature a unique design that can also be used to secure water bottles to your board. D-ring attachment points can be used to secure the coil ankle leash.

Additionally, this paddle board comes with useful accessories including a high pressure pump to inflate the board, cell-phone dry bag, repair kit and backpack to carry everything.

One reviewer on the Dick’s Sporting Goods website shares, “This thing moves us about like whip cream on ice cream. Very smooth. It’s like being in a limousine.” Another reviewer says it’s a solid paddle board, but “It needs more tie down area.”

Pros:

• Fits two people
• Can also be used as a kayak
• Comes with a good range of accessories
• Carry handles can also be used to secure water bottles

Cons:

• Only one bungee tie-down doesn’t provide enough cargo space for two people

Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Yoga: Advanced Elements Lotus Yoga

Dick’s Sporting Goods

• Price: $899.99
• Weight: 28 pounds
• Dimensions: 10 feet long, 32 inch mid, six inches thick
• Weight capacity: 200 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features almost a full-length traction pad and a removable shoulder strap.

Whether you are looking for an inflatable paddle board for SUP fitness or need a stable board for your downward dogs, the Advanced Elements Lotus Yoga Board gives you the stability and balance you need for a comfortable experience. The 10-foot-long board is almost completely covered with a grippy full-length traction pad for a smooth yoga experience. There are no bungees or grip handles throughout the length, giving you the full surface to practice your moves without anything getting in the way. There is a removable shoulder strap that can be used to help carry the board.

The board also comes with a paddle, pump and Lotus YSUP carrying bag.

One reviewer on Amazon says, “I love this board! I used it for touring and yoga in the ocean, harbor, my pool and on a lake! It's so convenient to transport and easy to pack into the duffel. The shoulder strap makes it easier to transport inflated than any other board I've used. It's really maneuverable for its size (10 feet) very buoyant, stable (nice and wide for yoga) and firm! The only feature I think is missing are elastic cargo tie downs to secure a life vest or gear.”

Pros:

• Nearly full-length traction pad
• Surface doesn’t have items (such as bungees or grips) that get in the way of yoga moves
• Comes with a paddle, pump and carrying bag

Cons:

• No cargo ties to help store gear

Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Heavy People: Connelly Big Easy

REI

• Price: $700
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Dimensions: 11 feet long, 38 inches mid, six inches thick
• Weight capacity: 375 pounds
• Key features: This paddle board features a soft, sanded EVA pad, bungee for storage and nine-inch removable center fin. It also comes with a pump with gauge, carry bag, coil leash and patch and repair kit.

While some of the boards on this list barely support over 200 pounds of weight, the Big Easy has a weight capacity of 375 pounds. It’s also 11 feet long, making it a good choice for those who are on the taller or heavier side.

For comfortable grip, the board features a soft, sanded EVA deck pad. A bungee at the front of the board is ideal for storing essentials. Accessories include a high-pressure pump, convenient carry bag, coil leash and a patch and repair kit. It also comes with one nine-inch center fin that can be removed for storage.

Pros:

• Supports 375 pounds of weight
• 11 feet long
• Comes with a good range of accessories

Cons:

• Only one color choice

Why Buy an Inflatable Paddle Board?

Inflatable paddle boards can be a convenient option for water fitness since they are easily portable, but still solid, durable and stable boards.

Mike Lamm, champion surfer, surf coach, paddle board instructor and owner of Channel Island Kayak says, “The inflatables are really good for toughness, transportation, lightness and storage.”

How to Use an Inflatable Paddle Board

In order to use an inflatable paddle board, you first need to inflate the board. Most inflatable paddle boards on this list come with an air pump. You’ll need to use the pump to fill up the valve on the back of the board. Usually, boards will have a recommended PSI for achieving the best pressure for the paddle board experience.

Once your paddle board is inflated, and you are ready to use it, one of the first things you may want to do is secure your leash to your ankle. This will ensure that you don’t get too far from the board if you fall off. You can carry the paddle board to the water, using the carry handle.

When entering the water, make sure that the water is deep enough to accommodate the entire board including the fin(s). When you get on the board, first get on your knees with an even weight distribution on the center of the deck pad. Once you feel stable, you can get onto your feet, with a balanced upright posture. Often positioning yourself around the center carry handle provides a good reference for where to stand.

The paddle should be held vertically with the angled bottom forward. One hand should be at the top of the paddle and the other more towards the center of the paddle as you pull the paddle straight back with the blade underwater.

Some manufacturers will provide instructions and/or videos for how to best use the board. If you are a beginner, it’s a good idea to take an introductory paddle board class to learn how to safely use the board.

What to Look for in an Inflatable Paddle Board

Intended use

Paddle boards can be used for a wide variety of activities including SUP fitness, fishing, yoga and more. Some paddle boards can only support one person while others have enough room and weight capacity to support two people.

It’s important to keep your intended use in mind when selecting a paddle board because some features will be a better fit for certain activities than others. For instance, if you want to do yoga, you may want a longer board with full-length grip throughout the board.

Size

Longer and wider boards can provide more stability and be a better fit for beginners.

Lamm shares that boards that are longer are good for going a little faster while boards that are shorter and wider can be a little easier to turn.

Most of the sizes on this list are between 10 to 11 feet long and 32-38 inches wide. While wider boards are more stable, they can be slower.

It’s important to consider your intended use, when deciding on a size because certain sizes are better suited to specific activities.

Weight capacity

The boards on this list range from 200 pounds of weight capacity to 500 pounds of weight capacity. It’s important to make sure the board can accommodate the amount of weight you plan to use on it to ensure a safer experience and avoid damaging the board.

Special features

Special features can include unique fin designs, bungees for storage, multi-use carry straps, board artwork and more.

Durability

Inflatable paddle boards are usually made from durable materials such as PVC. They aren’t as likely to get damaged as easily as a fiberglass board.

Cost

The inflatable paddle boards on this list range from around $186 to over $1,000.

Inflatable Paddle Board Accessories

• Leash: The leash keeps you close to the paddle board if you fall off. It can also be an important safety tool, so that you don’t lose your board in an emergency situation where you need it for floatation.
• Life vest: Life vests are personal floatation devices that will keep you floating if you fall off your board. Some states require you to wear a life vest by law when stand up paddle boarding. Even if a life vest is not required by law, it’s a good idea to wear one for a safe paddle boarding experience.
• Paddle: The paddle is the long tool you use to maneuver yourself through the water and control your speed and direction. It can also help with balance. You’ll want to make sure you are using an appropriate length paddle for your height. Most paddle boards come with an adjustable length paddle.
• Pump: Most of the inflatable paddle boards on this list come with pumps to help you inflate the board fast and efficiently.
• Carrying bag: One of the desirable features of inflatable paddle boards is that they can be deflated and fit in a carrying bag for easy and convenient portability and storage. 

Related Post: The Best Water Shoes for Your Summer Adventures 

Inflatable Paddle Board FAQs

Is a foam or inflatable paddle board better?

Whether a foam or inflatable paddle board is better for you will depend on your needs and preference.

If you’re looking for a convenient option for travel, inflatable paddle boards can easily be rolled up and transported in a backpack. “You can take them on airplanes, throw them in RVs, take them on boats. Then at the end of your trip, you roll them up, and they're very transportable,” says Lamm.

He also shares that both work well on flat water.

“The inflatables are very light, easy to get to the water and get out of the water. They’re very stable.” However, Lamm shares that in higher wave settings inflatables can “taco” or wobble more.

What type of paddle board is most stable?

Lamm shares, “Stability is based on size, the length and the width of the board.”

Boards that are wider and longer usually provide more stability. Most of the inflatable paddle boards on this list are at least 32 inches wide and 10 feet long, which are considered stable dimensions appropriate for beginners.

Is it better to have one or three fins on a SUP?

Fins can help with maneuverability. Often boards have one large center fin and they may have two smaller outer fins.

Lamm says that one to three fins work fine for inflatable paddle boarding on flat water, but you may want more fins if you plan to do SUP surfing. “For surfing, usually you're gonna want either a four fin or a three fin. You can use a single fin, it just doesn't have the performance,” he says.

Are inflatable paddle boards harder to stand on?

Inflatable paddle boards are not harder to stand on. Stability depends more on the dimensions of the board than whether it is inflatable.

Is it better to store SUP inflated or deflated?

Bote, one of the SUP brands on this list, recommends storing inflatable boards deflated to protect the integrity of the board and help prevent wear and tear.

Do inflatable paddle boards roll up?

Yes, inflatable paddle boards roll up and can be stored by deflating the board and then rolling it up to put in a carrying bag.

Is paddle boarding a good exercise?

Paddle boarding can be a fun way to get exercise. Research suggests that paddle boarding may provide benefits including increased aerobic and anaerobic fitness, increased core strength, and improved balance.

How much is a good quality paddle board?

You can find a highly rated beginner budget-friendly paddle board for as low as $186, such as the Advenor Paddle Board 11’ x 33 x 6 on this list. Higher quality boards can cost in the $800 to $1,000+ range.

Can I leave my inflatable SUP in a hot car?

One of the benefits of inflatable SUPs is that you don’t have to transport them on the roof rack of a car where they would get direct sun exposure. However, it is not ideal to store SUPs in extreme heat or cold.

According to REI, one of the SUP board sellers on this list, extreme heat and direct sunlight have the potential to damage the materials in the board and discolor it. If possible, store your inflatable SUP in a place where it is protected from sun, moisture and heat.

Final Thoughts

Inflatable stand up paddle boards provide a fun and versatile way to stay fit while enjoying nature. Their easily portable design makes them an ideal fitness tool for travel and adventure.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.