As inflatable SUP boards started getting more popularity, we realized that the number of products from different brands skyrocketed and flooded the market. Thus choosing the most convenient and best inflatable paddleboard(isup) has become quite a difficult task.
Our experts have used different models of SUP boards from different brands, and finally sorted out these five models for you. In this article, you are going to know the ins and outs of five following inflatable stand up paddle boards that are currently at the top of the market.
Our Top 5 Best Inflatable Paddle Board(iSUP) for Surfing 2020 [July 2020 Updates]
When it comes to routine physical activity or having fun, stand up paddle boarding covers it all. No wonder inflatable SUP (stand up paddle) boards remain on top of the wishlist of many paddle borders due to flexibility and comfort.
Let’s take a look at the quick overview of all the models first:
#1. Atoll 11′ Foot Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Atoll always boasts of how light their SUP boards are, and Atoll 11’ Paddle Board is no different. They consider this model to be a premium one, as people from all ages and heights are able to bring the best out of it.
The built contains Fusion Light construction and dual layer PVC. The second layer is basically designed to give more protection to the inner layer, so that the board can last for some good years. The board is very strong regardless of the light weight that it has.
The top of the board comes with EVA foam pads to prevent the surface from being slippery. And the 13 D-rings Atoll 11’ has are good enough to tie down your paddleboard accessories. Paddle boarders won’t have to worry about losing their belongings if they are using this iSUP.
With the board itself, you will get the paddle, front and back bungee tiedowns, leash, manual pump, detachable fin, a repair kit and the backpack. We think these cover everything that is required to enjoy a great experience on water.
Just like the board, the paddle is very light as well; actually it is less than 2.5 lbs. People who are not regular paddlers will find this very convenient as they won’t be fatigued very soon. In addition, the paddle is made of three separate pieces, giving you the freedom to choose an appropriate paddle length.
A 300 lbs capacity can support almost anyone, even more than one person if they are lightweight. This way the Atoll 11’ can work as an alternative to boats as well.
The price range for Atoll 11’ SUP board varies from $625 to $1400 with and without discounts.
Things We Liked
- Comfortable Surface
- Durable Body
- Lightweight
- Complete accessory set
Things We Didn’t Like
- The Manual Pump
- Expensive Price Tag
#2. iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
iRocker says that they don’t want their customers to compromise on quality as they are paying less. The features seem to be quite attractive for the price. Especially the durability of the board seems quite impressive.
The construction includes 4 layers of protection, crocodile textured diamond groove deck pad, dual fusion heat welded seams and maximum stitching per square inch. In addition, the outer layer is strengthened with protective PVC and drop stitch core.
iRocker’s SUP boards are popular for having rockers in them, and the iRocker Cruiser also have one. The slight rocker placed at the nose of the SUP board will keep it responsive while taking turns. The shape of the board compliments the rocker very well.
Along with the board, the package contains a fiberglass paddle, a leash, a triple action pump and a backpack. We liked the fiberglass paddle as it is very durable and made of TVR rubber which stops it from getting chipped under pressure. The triple action pump seems quite impressive for a manual hand pump.
The iRocker Cruiser has a capacity of 400 lbs, which is above average. The board itself had to gain some additional weight for being able to support such capacity though.
Things We Liked
- Affordable Price Range
- Triple Action Hand Pump
- High Capacity Durable Built
- The Rocker
Things We Didn’t Like
- Heavy Weight
- The Occasional Drag on Water
- Comparatively Slow Speed
#3. ISLE Airtech Inflatable Explorer Stand Up Paddle Board
ISLE Explorer is a SUP that is designed for adventurers. It comes with a tri-fin configuration to enhance versatility for different kinds of water. The shape ensures stability and comfortable cruising through waves and chop.
The built structure of the ISLE Explorer follows airtech construction. Military grade PVC is used to provide the body with robust physic. A big bungee system is placed at the front side of the board, complimented by a small bungee cord at the back.
Due to the bungee system the foot pad is smaller than usual, but enough to function properly. It also has rubber padding on surface to make it more comfortable. With 15 individual D-rings, securing your belongings won’t be rocket science while roaming on water.
The removable fins at the backside help to maintain stable aerodynamics and proper balance on the board. The larger fin comes in very handy when you are dealing with open water. As the board is quite light, it is important to have suitable balancing mechanism to prevent the board from being blown away with unfriendly water.
The package comes with nylon blade paddle/adjustable carbon shaft, coil leash, travel fins, high pressure pump and the backpack. We think these accessories are quite adequate for both short and long distance paddle surfing.
With a capacity of 350 lbs, the ISLE Explorer is quite able to support your body, along with some supplies.
The product price varies from $750 to $800, making it quite affordable.
Things We Liked
- Lightweight
- Removable Fins
- Military Grave PVC
- Affordable Price Tag
Things We Didn’t Like
- No D-rings at the Front or Back
- Occasional Drag on Open Water
- Comparatively Slow Speed
#4. THURSO SURF Waterwalker All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
The Waterwalker Inflatable SUP Board by THURSO SURF seems to be the most durable entry in this list. It has multiple features that have made the body very rigid and robust. For a price range of $530 to $600, this looks like a good bargain.
iSUPs are not traditionally considered as durable, but the Waterwalker has proven that wrong. It has double layer construction with quad military grade PVC coatings almost on the entire body. On top of that, another double layer PVC coated tarpaulin is included in both the deck and side. These features have made the board almost as strong as a hard board.
The paddle that comes with the Waterwalker is made of Carbon shaft, which weighs only 2 lbs. The size of the paddle is flexible, due to three separate parts. The blade is made of composite nylon, along with a center rib.
Three removable fins will give different options to the paddle surfer based on the type of water they would like to surf on. Quick lock installation system has reduced the time to install the fins to a significant extent.
The package includes the carbon shaft, lock fins, leash, hand pump, deck bag and the backpack. We found the deck bag to be quite a good addition, as surfers don’t carry bagpacks on their back while paddling.
The Waterwalker comes in two sizes: 10’6” and 11’. The smaller one has a capacity of 280 lbs while the longer one can carry up to 380 lbs. We would recommend going for the longer one as it gives more freedom while carrying accessories.
Things We Liked
- Tri-fin Configuration
- Good Capacity
- Beautiful Design
- Ultimate Durability
Things We Didn’t Like
- No Kick Tail
- Inadequate Capacity for the 10’6” Version
#5. Bluefin SUP Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board
The Bluefin SUP board is inflatable up to 15 PSI for convenient rides. The body is constructed main military grade PVC with overlapping seams. Though there is no additional layer, the structure is strong enough for day to day use.
The portable Kayak seat has made this SUP board very different from the other traditional ones. No one thinks that there needs to be a sitting arrangement on an SUP board, unlike Bluefin. With convertible paddles, a full Kayaking experience can be enjoyed with this board.
The package comes with a dual action air pump, the convertible paddles, portable kayak seat, detachable tracking fin, valve tool, repair kit, board leash and the backpack. Though it doesn’t have any coil leash, the board leash can get the job done.
The weight capacity of the 10’8” Bluefin SUP board is 310 lbs. This is a quite decent number if you are willing to go fishing or taking a pet with you. There are two other sizes: 12’ and 15’. We think that a capacity of 350 lbs is quite inadequate for the 15’ version.
The Bluefin SUP board won’t give you the best numbers, or the most eye-catching features. What you will get is versatility. If you want to go for kayaking once in a while, this one can be a good option for you.
Things We Liked
- Versatility
- Thermosealed Deckpad
- UV Resistant Coating
Things We Didn’t Like
- No Coil Leash
- Heavier than Others
- No Double Layered Protection
Beginners Guide To Choosing An iSUP
Choosing the best inflatable SUP can be quite challenging if you don’t have any experience. It’s okay, as there are so many different paddle board brands in the market, each claiming that their inflatable sup is the best in the market. We would like to give you some insights on this.
Understand Your Need
When it comes to inflatable SUPs, there is no certain brand that ticks all the boxes. Different paddle boards have different characteristics. You need to choose the one that fits your need, and automatically it will be the best inflatable SUP for surfing.
For example, if you are willing to go out on an adventure or fishing, then you will need a large board with enough capacity to carry your supply or fishing apparatus. On the other hand, if your goal is to take part in water sports, then you’ll need a lighter one that has more speed.
Length
SUPs come in all shapes and sizes. Usually short boards are under 10’, while the large ones tend to be longer than 12’. Anything in between are medium the medium ones. Different sizes have different purposes to fulfill.
If you are just learning to surf, then you won’t need a larger one initially. A short inflatable SUP is best for climbing waves, as it is easier to maneuver them. You won’t get the same excitement with the larger sizes.
Medium SUPs are best for yoga and spending some quiet comfy time on water surface. You won’t be able to carry tons of weight on them, but they do provide you with the option to carry some accessories.
Long boards are needed when you are willing to go quite some distance with your iSUP. You can carry substantial amount of supply on them, and will be able to find some room for taking rest when your arms are fatigued.
PSI
Pounds per Square Inch (PSI), is the unit of how much pressure your inflatable SUP can endure. In general, inflatable SUPs with higher PSI are more durable and strong. Ideally, you should purchase a SUP board that can endure no less than 12 PSI. You can pump more air in these SUPs without having to worry about a mini-explosion.
Paddle
If the paddle of your inflatable SUP is not good, then you won’t have a pleasant experience going out surfing with it. Good paddles are made of carbon shaft, nylon blade or fiberglass. Portable paddles give you more flexibility as you can choose the size according to your need.
Make sure your paddle floats on water. It is very normal to drop the paddle while surfing. If it doesn’t float, then you are doomed.
Pump
Almost all the inflatable SUPs will come with a pump. In most of the cases hand pumps are given. But if you find one with decent specs and an electronic pump, then don’t hesitate to go for it. Hand pumps take a lot of effort and energy. You don’t want to drain all your energy right before you are going water boarding.
Conclusion
We believe that THURSO SURF Waterwalker All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board took this battle home by a slight margin. Attol 11’ and iRocker Cruiser came really close, but eventually we had to give it to Waterwalker for its ultimate durability.
Such a strong body makes sure that Waterwalker is able to give services for years. Rest of the options was not fragile, but for the price tag it has, there was no competition regarding this in fact.
We also gave Waterwalker some additional points for the comfort it provides. We don’t calculate comfort based on the material used to cover the surface; rather we give more priority on balance and flexibility of movement.
All the entries in this list have similar accessories, but the additional deck back put Waterwalker ahead of the others. We also liked the tin-fin set that helps to maneuver the board better.
So, here goes quest on choosing the best inflatable SUP. Do you agree with our list? Feel free to share the post with your valuable opinion.
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