The Vapor inflatable paddle board by Aqua Marina is one of the company’s best products. If you are a beginner and want to practice stand up paddling for the first time, an Inflatable paddle board is where you want to begin.
It’s appearance is very similar to that of a natural hard board as the Aqua Marina only 4″ thick, slimmer than most inflatable boards out there that are typically 6″ thick. Being thinner you get better performance and maneuverability from the board, but the trade off is a lower weight limit and that it will tend to flex going over larger waves and in choppy conditions.
The Vapor is long, at 3.3 meters (10 foot 10 inches) and is 30″ wide. The VAPOR is nicely designed with a slim body and sharp looking edges which adds to its authentic look. Its wide EVA deck design guarantees a stable yet fast performance.
The board is featured with 4 stainless steel D-rings on the head intended to quickly secure your cargo and 2 D-rings on the back to install a kayak seat; which is never a bad thing when it comes to SUPs. With a double-wall drop stitch PVC construction, this board is very durable, and can be used in almost any kind of environment.
Just like any inflatable SUP, this one can perform best when it comes to small wave surfing or slow currents. However, that does not mean that the Vapor is not suitable for heavy duty action. When it comes to strong currents (beach, river. etc), you might want to remove the central fin in order to maintain solid control and avoid damaging your board.
Taking into consideration the price tag of the Aqua Marina – Vapor, you might notice that there are boards which would cost you a lot more but not necessarily provide more. Simply because The Aqua Marina – Vapor comes with a complete gear which consists of a:
3-part paddle that you can easily put together
extra high pressure 23.5″ hand pump that will inflate the board in under 10 minutes
repair kit if ever needed
3 removable fins (2 small side fins, and 1 large slide-in central fin)
back pack bag where you can store your board when deflated and easily transport it with you everywhere you like.
The day I received the Aqua Marina – Vapor, I inflated it in no time using my old electric pump; hand pumping would have been a great warm up before getting to the local lake though, but manual pumping can get a little bit challenging once you’re over 10 PSI.
The Aqua Marina – Vapor also has a carry handle installed conveniently at the center of the board to help carry it but also get back on top after you dive into the water. The traction pad is basic but considering the price, it seems to be a fair deal.
The Vapor performed decently, it was stable and swift in flat water and it felt very solid when fully inflated.
I was satisfied with the overall performance of the board. However, it may flex in the middle a little when faced with waves, so you might want to think about that if you’re a larger sized person or want to do a lot of surfing.
Pros
The Aqua Marina – Vapor looks and feels almost like a hard board thanks to its all-round design.
It is stable and delivers a great performance on flat water because of its wide and flat deck design.
It comes in a complete package which is always a good thing.
Cons
The only minor problem I have with The Aqua Marina is the lack of build quality in the making of this board. I mean, it is not a deal breaker but a cleaner manufacturing would have added a lot to the aesthetic aspect of the board.
Final Thoughts
The Vapor is a good choice for beginners and is easy to paddle about. After all, this board is pretty strong and can take a beating and that allows you to clear your mind and actually enjoy this thing.
If you are a beginner; you might want to also get a removable kayak seat to relax and enjoy the flat waters or the small waves. Also, you can exploit this feature and try out some fishing.
The ISLE Airtech 10’4 Stand up paddle board is a really well done inflatable board which is not what I would say for most inflatable SUPs out there. This thing supports users who weigh up to 200 lbs easily which is really decent for a board in this category. For 600 bucks, this board is debatably amongst the best boards in its range because not only is it beautifully designed but it is also suitable for people of all levels.
The ISLE Airtech 10’4 is rugged and it serves many functions for not only is it very reliable on water but it can also be used for next level yoga routines and various fitness exercises which can be easily found online nowadays.
I said this once and I will say it a thousand times: Inflatable boards are the future of paddle boarding because they are simply so much more practical than regular boards. The board at hand measures 10’4, its platform is 31 inches wide and it is 6 inches thick when inflated.
On the other hand, it measures some 1ft in diameter x 31 inches width when deflated and that is the magic of owning an inflatable board. I mean, with ‘a click of a button’, you can transform this thing from a monster to a little rolled up carpet which can be stored easily under your bed. Add to that the fact that it is ten times easier to transport when travelling or on vacation. You simply cannot beat that.
This board is perfect for beginners because it comes with everything you will need to maintain your board. Unlike most SUPs, the ISLE Airtech 10’4 comes with an aluminium paddle that breaks down into 3 parts and mounts easily which makes it easier to store and move. Also, the company includes a manual pump that is equipped with a pressure gauge to help you pump up your board to the perfect PSI which is somewhere around 15 (The pumping gets a little difficult after 10 PSI but the overall operation wouldn’t overpass 10 minutes).
The ISLE Airtech 10’4 SUP board has 3 fins in the back which are very useful on calm water and slow currents. However, I would advise you to consider removing the central fin in strong currents or shallow water to avoid damaging your board. And last but not least, the company includes a quick repair kit which would save you a lot of labour if ever needed. However, if you used the board responsibly, I doubt you’d ever need the repair kit because this thing is strong.
I’ve been out on this board on a few occasions and one thing which impressed me most is the quality of this thing. I am not what you’d call an easy going dude and I like to squeeze the juice out of my toys and this board was not an exception. I just throw it in my car, drive off to the nearest local beach, I pump it and do not give a second thought to where I throw it; Be it rocks, pebbles, sand, you name it, yet this thing has proven to be very durable and up till now, I haven’t needed the repair kit.
What made me feel safer with this board is the fact that the company trusts their product and there’s nothing that shows trust more than a 2 year manufacturer’s warranty. These guys are willing to replace any of their products if defected under the given time period and if this thing lasts more than two years with me then I couldn’t really ask for more because most things I own don’t survive past the first year.
Also, a few days ago, I looked up the material out of which this board was made online and turned out it is high military grade quality but that wasn’t a surprise because if you use these things commonly, you can tell it is a good quality board just by running your palm over it.
The ISLE is also really stable which should be your first concern when purchasing an inflatable board because the last thing you want is a malfunctioning board. This board is shaped nicely to help you maintain balance easily when you’re on top of it, as long as you pumped it sufficiently. It has a large traction pad which covers almost two thirds and a carry handle situated in the center of the board to facilitate carrying it out of water.
Pros
This board is of great quality and that means you don’t have to treat it like a fragile baby and actually enjoy using it.
The traction pad on the deck is huge and roomy enough to fit two people comfortably. But you want to keep that weight limit (200lbs) under check.
The package is all inclusive and equipped with everything you need to maintain the board.
Cons
Again, and like a few companies out there, this company doesn’t provide a bag to carry the board when deflated which would’ve been perfect.
I am not really a fan of the color but clearly this board was designed with a woman in mind.
Final Thoughts
The manual pump is great but pumping for 10 minutes can be demanding sometimes. So, I would advise you to invest in an electric pump and save yourself the trouble. After all, you always needed one but haven’t found a good reason to up till now.
If you’re a beginner and you want a really nice and durable board, the ISLE is definitely where you want to start.
The TOWER XPLORER is a gracious 14 feet tall inflatable Stand up paddle board. Just like the name indicates, this board is huge and with huge boards come huge responsibilities because everyone will try to climb up your board and join you. But do not worry because this board can get the job done.
The company claims that the weight limit is 700 lbs but last time I went to check the coral in our local beach, I got a bunch of my friends to join me on top of the board and I would say they weigh fairly more than 700 lbs and that didn’t affect the performance a bit.
The XPLORER is a big sturdy boy and when you stand tall on top of it, it feels as if you’re sailing a little boat of yours, the only difference is that the TOWER XPLORER is far more swift and glorious. However, unlike other boards, this one is perfectly pumped at 10-11 PSI which is guaranteed to save you a lot of struggling. Nevertheless, if you’re not into manual pumping, you can switch to an electric pump as I did and relax while it gets the job done.
On a side note, you don’t want to ride this big boy without an ankle leach because it will keep cruising without a second thought. The board might be big but it is nowhere near being slow. In fact, if anything, the size of this monster provides more stability and helps it gain steady speed.
If there’s anything you should know, it is that the XPLORER is not a racing board. So, do not expect matrix speed but then again I could easily trade that for a firmer, more stable platform and this board delivers.
Jumping off of the board feels like cliff diving which feels amazing to say the least but you might be expected to put a little effort to get back on top of this thing which is logical, considering it is 8” thick. However, that shouldn’t be a problem because the deck is 32” wide and is equipped with a huge traction pad that is very grippy and can help you a bunch to get back on top of your board.
This is a common feature amongst Stand up paddle boards but it has never seized to convince me to take an inflatable board instead of a normal one any day of the week. This thing can be deflated!!! Which means it can be rolled up and easily stored anywhere you want, unlike a big normal board which will kill you one day, unless if you have a big empty garage where you can store it. However that still doesn’t fix the transportation problem.
On the bright side, the TOWER XPLORER is great quality product. It is designed to take a beating as it is made up from military grade materials and manufactured with great care. I have the habit to scan every purchase of mine for defects because that is always a sign of cheap manufacturing but I failed hard to find anything on this board that is worth emailing the company for.
On the down side, the company in charge does not provide a bag for the board to store when deflated. But that is by no means a deal breaker because you can shove this thing in any sitting bag in your house.
Pros
It is a big rigid bad boy and it guarantees a fun experience either for you alone or when you want to take your wife/girlfriend/boyfriend/friend on board or even all of them at once which might get messy considering the fact that you’re arranging a mid sea meet up for your wife and girlfriend.
The XPLORER tracks very well and that is supported with its not so humble size and the big fin underneath. It might take some time to acquire the techniques in order to manipulate this board the way you want but it will come with time.
The traction pad is high quality stuff and it will always be there to support you whenever you try to get back up on your feet or at least on your knees; unlike your EX.
Cons
It’s a big board, so it requires some pumping which doesn’t go over 10 minutes but it is still a good workout.
It’s a bit over 35lbs, as you might have expected considering its size.
No storing bag is included.
Insider’s Tip
Do not use this board without an ankle leach because it will not stand still and wait for you to retrieve it.
The Ten Toes theWeekender is an inflatable stand-up paddle boards that is designed for people of all skills and levels. Specially made of military grade PVC, the WEEKENDER is almost indestructible with an astounding weight limit of 250lbs-275lbs.
The beauty of the WEEKENDER is that it is an inflatable board which makes it that much lighter and easier to store as it can be rolled up inside a medium sized bag when deflated – Forget about struggling to find space for your board – This board Measures 10’x30x6″ when inflated and it is just as firm and sturdy as any SUP.
The best thing about this SUP is that it comes with everything you’d need whether you’re a beginner or an old fish. The WEEKENDER includes an indestructible iSUP, an adjustable aluminium paddle which breaks down to 3 parts for storage, 3 fins (2 small 1 big), a manual pump, and a repair kit and if that’s not enough, it also includes Ten Toes’ 1 year warranty!
This board is designed to adapt to the user’s requirements as it is very stable and just as rigid as non inflatable boards, especially for beginners who desire to experiment with their new board. The deck pad is a textured foam for comfort and added stability/traction. It also prevents slipping off the board and helps you maintain and fixed up posture.
This board has 4 d rings on the deck connected with a bungee cord which can be used to stow your equipments and paddle. But sadly, there’s no D-ring on the nose of the board which would’ve been perfect. However; the WEEKENDER has an additional D-ring on the back of the board for you to tow or secure it which ‘slightly’ covers up for the missing one up front.
The WEEKENDER comes with 3 removable nylon fins that are there to improve your control over your direction especially in calm water. On the other hand, it’s slightly more difficult to manoeuvre with the fins attached in running water. Therefore, when it feels like it’s harder to control, you might want to remove the fins. Speaking of which, you should consider removing the fins also when you’re trending in shallow water or rivers (start by removing the central-big- fin then remove the other two if you think you may be risking them) and stow them up front.
This board comes with its own manual pump which is not as good as an electric pump but on the bright side, pumping your board manually would serve as a great warm up before you jump in the water. Inflating the board doesn’t take longer than 8 minutes and it doesn’t really require much of an effort. The pump is equipped with its own pressure gauge so that you do not over or under inflate your board for maximal stability.
Setup
Take the board out, unroll and inflate it.
The valve is a Halkey-Roberts style valve which means you must make sure to push the spring and have it in a popped up position before you start to inflate and push it in and twist to deflate.
Secure the valve, install your fins and off you go.
Putting it away is just as easy which is exactly why I prefer inflatable boards to normal boards. They are just so practical.
Pros
The WEEKENDER is fairly light and comes with a strap installed at the center of the board in order to maintain balance when carrying it.
It is worth the money, considering the positive reputation this company has and the overall great quality of the board and kit.
This board’s characteristics are suitable for all kinds of users and it doesn’t take long to master its techniques.
Cons
This board is not the fastest board but that shouldn’t come as a surprise because it is not a competitive board.
An extra D-ring on the nose of the board would’ve been great.
Final Thoughts
The WEEKENDER is a great inflatable SUP which is designed craft-fully to fulfil the requirements of the standard user. Like most inflatable SUPs, this one is no exception when it comes to practicality of use and storage. The board is also equipped with everything you’d need for maintenance. And on top of all, it is the closest you’ll ever get to experiencing how JESUS felt when he walked on water.
The blue wave sports stingray is one of the few top notch inflatable Stand up paddleboards in the market right now. Its multi-layered drop stitched high pressure core is rigid to say the least. Add to that the double layered outer skin, increasing its durability even further.
The board measures up to 10-ft L x 30-in W x 4-in thick when properly inflated and that expands its weight capacity up to 220lbs which is significant for a board this size.
The SPORTS STRINGRAY is typically designed to satisfy users of all levels and preferences. It’s conveniently equipped with almost everything you need to keep your board on point at all times. This board comes with:
Like most inflatable Stand up boards, the STINGRAY comes with quick-grab handle for easy accessory storage(in the back), an anti slippage deck pad for a stronger grip which is also designed to reinforce comfort whether you’re standing, kneeling or sitting down on the board. The package also includes a paddle, and adjustable removable seat which is a unique feature of this brand, a hand pump, a practical polyethylene storage bag, and beginner friendly repair kit.
On the one hand, and similar to the WEEKENDER SUP, the SPORTS STINGRAY Inflatable SUP board doesn’t have a D-ring on the nose of the board and has one on the back instead which is a common feature flaw in the inflatable SUPs universe and one which should stop reoccurring. Although it’s not a deal breaker, a D-ring on the nose of the board is always a nice touch and can be used for towing or securing your board properly.
On the other, another common but very positive/practical feature of the SPORTS STINGRAY is that it’s an inflatable SUP which means it is lighter, and easy stored when deflated unlike normal board which are almost impossible to transport or story somewhere neatly. The SPORTS STINGRAY fits conveniently in a portable bag, it is so easy to assemble (it doesn’t take more than 10 minutes, including the pumping), it is easily transported when inflated via the center carry-handle, and has an uncommonly larger deck pad for more grip and comfort.
The board feels amazingly stable and rigid when pumped up to 15 PSI. However, it can be a little bit demanding once you go over 10 PSI, using the hand pump. Thus, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it would take a little bit of muscle power to pump up the board to its perfect PSI.
Performance wise, the SPORTS STINGRAY is impressive for a board in this price range. It is fairly easy to control and quite swift in calm water. But don’t be deceived, it can also be very agile in running rivers and small waves when surfing.
Pros :
The STINGRAY SUP has basically everything you’d need to start paddle boarding which makes it extremely convenient for beginners and less annoying for experienced users.
Unlike other inflatable boards, the STINGRAY has a a fabric removable seat which makes it more fun to use but also allows you to experience various features when using the board, as it can be used as a kayak or even for fishing.
The board is very practical to say the least. The fact that it is inflatable makes it possible to roll it up and store or transport it easily.
Cons :
Just like every inflatable board, the hand pump is quite the task. However, investing in an electric pump isn’t a far reach idea because not only will it save you the trouble of pumping the paddle board every time you want to use it but it can also be very useful in different situations with different products.
Insider’s tip:
If you want to invest money in a paddle board, better trust a company with a history in the field and the company at hand has a great reputation for making pool equipment, meaning it didn’t just jump into the field yesterday. I trust that.
Final Thoughts
The Blue Wave SPORTS STINGRAY is a durable SUP which promises to grant you the best paddle boarding experience money can buy. Paddle boarding is a great sport because as it can be fun and exciting, it can also be calm and spiritual and investing your money in a board like this is definitely worth every penny.
First time to buy a stand up paddle board? Wondering about the best SUP brands? You’re not the only one. I’m sure there are a lot of other people out there thinking about buying their first stand up paddle board. After all, stand up paddle-boarding is increasing in popularity nowadays. Gliding peacefully through canyons or lakes, seeing bald eagles soar over the water, hearing paddle splashes – who wouldn’t want to take part in this sport? Who wouldn’t want to be out on the water, getting healthier and happier?
However, as with any sport, there is a wide array of equipment of varying price points, designs, and sizes depending on riders tastes and budget. Matching the right equipment to your physical needs is of great importance. With that said, we did the research so you don’t have to. We’ve put together this resource – a one-stop-shop, all-inclusive guide to help you find the best stand up paddle board brands worth considering.
We have received a bunch of requests from those who are just starting out who want a great stand up paddle board. We have come up with a great lineup, and we totally stand by the boards we have provided. We have tried to cover all categories from expensive to inexpensive to very inexpensive. We have also introduced you guys to a brand we have never reviewed, and you possibly haven’t heard of before.
This comes along with some other recurring brands that we like and already reviewed on this site, and we know you fellas like. Although, in all reality, if you are at this point, you are likely starting out. But even some of our veterans might see some good snags here for great prices.
Reliability and durability have become ubiquitous labels that SUP manufacturers love to attach to their boards. Every stand up paddle board brand out there throws these terms around as a marketing ploy, a gimmick used in an attempt to ingrain in consumer’s minds the idea that their packages are more worthy of the customers hard-earned buck than the next brand. But as the brands squabble with consumerism jargon and advertising tactics, there is actual research being done into what makes each brand worth considering.
So ,What stand up paddle board brands lived up to their claims of being reliable and trustworthy?
“TowerPaddleBoards”, “Isle Surf & SUP” ,”Red Paddle Co” continue to top the ranking according to the latest consumer reports survey as the leading inflatable stand up paddle board brands in in consumer’s minds. Well, that’s no coincidence. These perennial leaders have a significant advantage in overall score, but several other SUP brands are moving up the rankings.
The reviews below reflect how consumers perceive each SUP brand in three categories: price, performance, design/style. Combining these factors gives us a total brand-perception score.
If we missed a stand up paddle board brand you love, let us know in the comments!
Disclaimer on Our Best Stand up Paddle Board Brands
We have come up with this lineup after several hours of extensive research while considering parameters like price, consumers’ reviews, popularity, reliability, and many more.
This is not by any means a comprehensive list. There’ are tons and tons of great stand up paddle boards out there. However, we did want to give you a few good options. These brands represent different price points, styles and designs. With any luck, you’ll find something that best meets your needs and fits within your budget.
Price. SereneLife Stand Up Paddle Boards are very affordable, which is why they made this list, since we’re assuming most people reading it are beginners. And with some of their boards often under $350, you can get a really decent stand up paddle board. Also, keep in mind that the current offering of SereneLife is only inflatable boards. This should not be a big deal for most of the people, though.
Performance. The performance was surprisingly good. The inflatable SUP board we tried feels very solid when you blow it up, and you can barely tell it’s inflatable. One of the most subtle, but most useful features was the 6″ thickness that holds more air volume for larger paddlers, and keeps it quite stable for all riders. This board tracks very straight and glides like a dream. Though it’s not recommended for surfing, I used it in mild choppy ocean water and it proved to be quite stable.
Design. These are fairly cool looking stand up paddle boards. They’re made from extremely rugged materials like those you find on Zodiac boats and extreme river rafts. You can literally put the front tip of the 9’10” x 6″ on one chair and the rear tip on another chair and a 200 lb person can stand in the middle and you can barely see this thing flex. To put it plainly, if you’re on the lookout for a solid SUP board, and don’t have enough space to store it or you want to avoid the dilemma of transporting it, just get this SereneLife board and thank me later.
ISLE Surf & SUP (slightly more pricy but higher quality + well known brand)
ISLE Surf & SUP is one of our most-reviewed inflatable SUP board brands. They’re a company known for their long tradition of making high quality SUP Boards. We have reviewed plenty of ISLE board on on this site. We generally enjoy them, and we think you guys do as well.
Price. ISLE Surf & SUP boards come at lots of different price points. The ISLE Pioneer is is one of the best inflatable paddle boards regularly under $700 we’ve looked at recently. However, you can also find plenty of ISLE Surf & SUP boards at higher price points – up into the $1,500 range. However, some of our favorites were the less fancy, less expensive boards (like, again, the ISLE Pioneer which comes in 3 different colours so there will be always one that fits your taste).
Performance. The board mentioned above provides an excellent SUPing experience for the money. It ticks all the boxes for most all-around riders. It has great dimensions for those of you who are starting out, as well as for our veterans who have been paddle boarding for a while. The Pioneer inflatable SUP Board comes with everything you’ll need for a successful SUPing cruise including 3 piece adjustable travel paddle, high pressure pump and a removable travel fin. At regularly under $700, you can have so much fun riding your board in the water in as little as ten minutes after receiving it. Additionally, in terms of durability, this ISLE 10ft Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is made of high grade PVC material using Korean Drop-Stitch construction for added strength. Its military grade material is nearly impossible to damage. All ISLE Surf & SUP inflatable boards are covered from any workmanship or material defect for a period of 2 years.
Design. The design of ISLE Surf & SUP boards is very appealing. Trust us on this one, people will often ask you where you got your board.
If you are looking for a rigid board, the ISLE Versa Rigid might be fore you. Keep in mind however that this one is almost twice as expensive and, well, a “little bit” more difficult to travel with!
We’ve reviewed various DRIFT SUP boards on this site before, and the story hasn’t changed. DRIFT produces quality boards for a great price. If you are on tight-budget and wanting to keep your stand up paddle board under $500 and don’t get for the cheapest option like SereneLife, we can’t think of a better option for a SUP board than DRIFT’s. These stand up paddle boards are highly recommended to novice paddleboarders and all-around riders. You can certainly sub these boards out for another of your choosing in case racing and speed are high on your list of priorities.
Price. DRIFT boards are very affordable. If you’re budget-minded but simply unwilling to skimp on quality, then DRIFT’s SUP boards are your best choice. The price of these boards is usually at a perfect balance. While most of the stand up paddle boards are priced at over $700 easily, the DRIFTs SUP boards can be purchased for around $500. This stood out to us as not being too cheap, but not on the expensive side either.
Performance. To be honest, we weren’t too familiar with DRIFT SUP boards prior to using. However, The inflatable SUP board we tried (this one) proved to be a great value for the price. All things considered.
Ok, now we’re just having fun. This is one of the most luxurious, crazy, expensive SUP boards on the market. And, assuming you’ve got the cash to spare, and are a stickler for quality, any of the Red Paddle Co Ride lineup of inflatable boards (9’8, 10’6″, 10’8 ) would be a great buy. All things considered (the Ride Series of inflatable SUP boards in particular seems to be well-liked). And If I had to pick some criticisms for it, it would be the price – something this good is naturally expensive, and at over $1,000 the price tag can be difficult to swallow, but the quality of the board and the loveliness of the design are well worth it.
Price. Obviously, these are some pretty expensive SUP boards. If you want to go balls-to-the-wall and actually purchase one of these works of art. Again you’ll be looking at well over a $1,000 price tag. However, you’ll be getting a fine piece of craftsmanship that will last you a lifetime if properly cared for.
Performance. As SUP”ing has progressed over the years, Red Paddle Co have seen the need for a Ride style board for varying weight paddlers. This is why they developed the three sizes that make up the Ride family. The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ is one of their most popular inflatable SUP board on the market. That’s no coincidence. It’s designed to match the requirements of the all-around riders, it floats and glides easily and smoothly on flat water. It is also quite stable in choppy water conditions as well as in surf. And that’s what we love most about them. The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ just seems to hit the sweet spot for a lot of guys.Everything about it is high quality.Its super durable double wall construction makes it feel like a solid board. The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ is at the higher price range, but it’s worth every penny.
Special features. It’s really a fantastic inflatable stand up paddle board. It comes with an awesome backpack, a repair kit and the Red Paddle Co Titan Pump which makes inflation to 15-20psi faster and easier, leaving you more time to enjoy your SUP”ing cruise. The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ is all class.
To sum up Red Paddle is definitely one of the top SUP brands that I know.
I hope that this article gave you some idea around the best paddleboard brands out there. I think that there are plenty of SUP brands to avoid but let’s be honest, we don’t really want to give then ANY publicity. Stick the the known brands like these described above to make sure you enjoy your surf!
As stand up paddle boarding sport has progressed over the last decade, Red Paddle have spotted the need for a Ride style SUP board for differing weight paddlers. With that in mind, they’ve developed the three sizes that make up the Ride lineup. Now, you can choose the board that best fits your desired usage and body weight.
Red Paddle co 10’6 is one of the most of their badass, crazy, luxurious inflatable SUP boards on the market. And, assuming you’ve got the cash to throw around, it’s one of the highest quality inflatable SUP boards you can buy. Buying one of these boards is like buying a Mercedes. It’s just a whole different experience.
Obviously, these inflatable stand up paddle boards are expensive. If you want to go balls-to-the-wall and actually purchase one of these works of art, you’ll be looking at easily over $1,000. However, you’ll be getting a fine piece of craftsmanship that can make a day-and-night difference. The only downside about these inflatable stand up paddle boards is that they don’t include a paddle, so you’ll have to purchase one separately. Luckily for you, we’ve figured out a few examples that make up the best stand up paddles. Here’s our one-stop-shop, all-inclusive buying guide to help you find the best stand up paddle for your board.
Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Inflatable SUP Board Specifications
The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ is one of the best inflatable stand up paddle boards on the market.It puts other SUP boards to shame. Being built following the Red Paddle Co’s Tec Air construction process makes it an unbeatable value. Following are some of its most important features :
More In-Depth Info On The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Properly inflated, almost nothing beats Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Inflatable SUP board. This board is built following Red Paddle Co’s Tec Air construction process. It features high density drop stitch technology, double layering “board within a board” technique and quadruple layered rails which makes for a stronger and stiffer core. The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Inflatable SUP Board really does make the whole business of SUP”ing exceptionally easy.
The Red Paddle Co Ten Six is designed to match the requirements of all-around riders, it will float and glide easily on flat water, while still riding smoothly and predictably in surf. It is also extremely stable even in mild choppy conditions.
Although Red Paddle Co.’ has been in business only for a relatively short period of time, their laser focus has allowed them to look at the world of inflatable stand up paddle boards from a different angle and therefore come up with a product that is designed from the ground up to give you the absolute experience possible. We believe that the experience you get when you use one of these boards is that of an authentic SUP experience and not a low quality substitute to the real thing.
We’ve used and reviewed various inflatable stand up paddle boards over the years. Some inflatable boards tends to flex uncontrollably in the surf. However, that’s not the case with Red Paddle Co inflatable boards.The latter hold quite firm in various water conditions, therefore, you’ll find it pretty easy to pick your line across even the smallest of waves.
The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board ships with a solid pump which makes inflation to 25 PSI a very straight forward process. Included with the pump is a pressure gauge and hose.The boards also comes with a repair kit & backpack.
Everything about Red Paddle Co inflatable boards is top notch, from the board itself to its bag. These bags have integrated wheels that will make your life a lot easier, particularly if you’re travelling through the airport. The bag comes with a hidden backpack system that can be stowed when not in use ,and is quite comfortable when you decide to put the to board on your back. Inside are the internal straps that secure and help to hold the board in place while in transit. To put it plainly, this bag is truly the ultimate solution for travel and storage.
If I had to pick any cons, it would be the price – something this good is naturally expensive, and a price often ranging between $1200-$1600 can be difficult to swallow. Well, if you believe that you get what you pay for, Red Paddle Co inflatable boards proves that axiom right. However, despite the greater amount of money you need to throw at this inflatable stand up paddle board, it definitely earns its keep; all things considered. It’s a fantastically elegant and classy board that will give you an absolute SUP”ing experience while also making you feel like a million bucks.
Final Thoughts
The Red Paddle Co 10’6″ Ride Board is one of the best inflatable stand up paddle boards out there. It’s an expensive one, but again, it’s very well-engineered and is a great investment for anyone who doesn’t want to buy a $300-400 board every year or two (believe me, I’ve been there).
When it comes to inflatable stand up paddle boards, they all seem pretty homogeneous at first glance. You’ve got the anti-slip, rubber track pad, the back fins (single or 3 fin configuration – removable or fixed), and the inflation valve. Not much room for innovation or difference there, right? Wrong. Vilano, for example, puts out various inflatable stand up paddle boards, all of which will serve your needs just fine. In the long run, though, which one is the best Vilano stand up paddle board? Which one of these inflatable stand up paddle board will give you the best bang for your buck? Well, we did quite a bit of research to try to solve this problem, and we’ve whipped up this review for you to take a look at the ins and outs of the different inflatable stand up paddle boards that Vilano has to offer.
Stand up paddleboarding is definitely a bit of a commitment – You have to make sure you get the best stand up paddle board for the job, since the state of your board is the main factor that can make a day and night difference in your sup”ing cruise.Vilano inflatable stand up paddle boards are one of the most popular and the best budget-friendly inflatable SUP on the market, but you might be on the fence about them.
Vilano inflatable stand up paddle boards have got a lot of things in common that help them set themselves apart from the rest in small, but important, ways.
We’ve had a ton of requests to start including budget-friendly inflatable SUPs in our reviews. We have done a few. We feel we have left out some excellent inflatable SUP brands and boards, and, well, we would like to redeem that.
The great thing about Vilano Journey inflatable stand up paddle board is that it’s reasonably priced and it comes with everything you’ll need for a successful SUP”ing cruise.
If you’re on a budget and looking for a decent inflatable stand up paddleboard that comes with a paddle, a pump and backpack carry bag, then look no further than the “Vilano Journey 10′ Paddleboard”. It’s one of the cheapest ISUP board on the market.We do think you get a lot of bang for your buck with this board. It’s really well-made,and tracks well in a variety of water conditions. On top of everything else, it’s really durable and feels like a rigid stand up paddleboard. It is made of high grade PVC material with Korean Drop-Stitch construction.
Vilano Journey 10′ Paddleboard comes in two awesome colors (White/Grey – Blue/White).The board is 10′ long by 31″ wide, and it can hold up to 200 lbs.When it’s deflated, it rolls to 1 foot diameter by 35″ which makes it quite easy to carry and store.Additionally,it is equipped with heavy duty “D” ring hooks for carrying coolers or attaching Kayak seat backrest.
Vilano Journey 10′ Inflatable SUP Features
Rigid & Durable : It feels as rigid as hard board. The Vilano Journey 10″ is made of high grade PVC material with Korean Drop-Stitch construction, it’s built to last.
Ultra Portable : When deflated, the board shrinks to 1 foot in diameter by 35″. Inflated size: 10′ x 31″ Thick.
Deck Features : Comfort diamond groove traction for grip and Stainless D-Rings and bungee on front deck for storage.
Warranty : 1 Year manufacturers warranty that covers workmanship and material.
Vilano Navigator is the enhanced version of the “Vilano Journey”.In terms of design, they look the same.However, “Vilano Navigator” comes in different color variants,and it can hold more weight (50 lbs more). And more importantly, it sells almost for the same price as its predecessor.I mean, what’s difference does another $50 or so make over the life of your paddle board? That’s more or less the same market. So, often, it isn’t a question of whether or not Vilano Journey Inflatable SUP is good; rather, it’s more a question of why you would go for the Vilano Journey if you could a few dollars more and get something much better.
As for design, apart from the color difference this is virtually identical to the Vilano Journey; to that end, choosing between these two boils down to personal preference.The choice is yours, but either one of these inflatable boards would be an awesome buy.
All-in-all, this is a great option in the low-to-mid price range, and it’s ideal for beginners.
The Vilano Voyager 11′ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is going to be the most expensive pick of the lot by far. If you have read some of our reviews of inflatable SUP, you will know why. You truly get a solid experience with Vilano Voyager. At usually just under $500, the price isn’t anything to sneeze at, but this is a very well-made inflatable stand up paddle board, and it should last you a long time.
The design of this inflatable SUP Board is great as well. Ergonomically speaking,it’s really well-conceived.It has a comfortable anti-slip diamond groove deck pad. Additionally,it comes with a strong metal D ring and included bungee for toting along a cooler or dry bag, and attaching a leash or kayak seat/backrest. When deflated and rolled, the board measures 1 ft. diameter by 38 in, which makes it fit easily into the included backpack carry bag.
Vilano Voyager 11 ft. (6 in. Thick) Inflatable SUP Features :
Ultra Portable : When fully deflated, the board rolls up to a compact 38 inch long by 1 foot diameter.
Warranty : 1 Year Manufacturers Warranty that covers everything from the materials used to defects in workmanship.
Complete Package : Board, Pump with Integrated pressure gauge, adjustable 3-Piece Aluminum paddle, Removable fin and Backpack Carry Bag.
Board weight : 24.6 lbs.
Maximum weight load : It can hold up to a 300 lbs load.
Stand up paddleboarding with this board is a slightly different experience. Why? Well, it’s relatively long, but it also moves decently faster than all the boards we reviewed above.The Vilano 12′ comes with a removable 8 inch center fin which allows the board to track quite well in various water conditions.That said, It is an awesome board for exploring the ocean, rivers or lakes.
The board isn’t well suited for beginners, but it’s perfect for intermediate to advanced riders.Its price is quite affordable. At around $500, it’s not outrageous – and if you’re a stand up paddle boarding connoisseur, it could be a great investment.
Vilano 12′ (6″ Thick) inflatable touring SUP features
The SUP board measures 11 ft. long x 31 in. wide x 6 in. thick and weighs 24.6 lbs.
When deflated and rolled, the board measures 1 ft. diameter by 38 in. and fits easily in the included backpack carry bag.
The board is made with Strong PVC and Korean drop stitch construction.
It comes with 7 metal D rings and bungee for on board storage.
The package includes the SUP board, adjustable paddle, pump with an integrated pressure gauge, removable 8 inch center fin, patch kit/valve wrench, and backpack.
The boad is backed with 1-Year Full Manufacturer’s Warranty.
Max weight is 300 lbs.
The boad is backed with 1-Year Full Manufacturer’s Warranty.
Final Thoughts
Vilano inflatable stand up paddle boards are very affordable.That’s part of what makes them so appealing. And with most of their boards under $600, you can get a really decent inflatable SUP board.
These inflatable SUP boards are perfect for those just starting out or those who don’t want to go balls-to-the-wall and actually purchase one of those high-end SUP.
This is what you can get if you’re willing to shell out some serious dough. This is touring inflatable SUP board made by Isle Surf Boards, a company known well for their high-end boards. Of course, the first thing you’ll notice is the design.This thing looks gorgeous, from its sleek fast design to the unique texture on the deck.
If you’ve read our review of the Isle 10-ft iSUP and what it has to offer, but you wanted something longer, we can’t think of a better option for a long inflatable stand up paddle board than this 12-foot iSUP option from Isle.
We have reviewed a few of Isle inflatable stand up paddle board on this site. We generally enjoy them, and we think you guys do as well. First, let’s talk about the price. Our purpose here isn’t to convince you guys to go out and splurge on the most expensive stand up paddle board possible. Quite honestly, this board isn’t even close to the most expensive we’ve seen. We do think you get a lot of bang for your buck with this board. This one is handsome as hell.
The Isle 12 ft Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board has all the essentials to get your started. It comes with a 3 piece aluminum adjustable paddle, a high pressure pump & gauge and a removable travel fin.They are all quality accessories and what you need for a successful SUP”ing cruise.
Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Features
To give you an overview of what to expect from this SUP board,check out some of its top features :
EASY TO STORE – rolls to a compact size of only 1 foot in diameter x 36 inches wide. And 12’6″ x 30″ x 6″ when fully inflated.
SLEEK FAST DESIGN – Its Touring style design and fin set up (9 inch Center Box Fin & 2 Side Fins) allow for smooth long distance paddling and enhance the board’s stability when breaking through choppy water.
HIGH WEIGHT LOAD – The board can support multi-riders or single rider up to 300lbs.That means you can enjoy paddling with your dog, husband or wife or with friends.
HIGH DURABILITY – This board is made to last.You won’t need to worry about dings or damage.It can withstand a fair amount of abuse.Throw it off the roof or ram it into rocks or a pier, or run it over with your vehicle; the board is made with high quality, military grade material that resists wear and tear.
COMPLETE PACKAGE – The Isle 12 ft Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board comes with all the essentials to get your started including 3 piece Aluminum adjustable paddle, high pressure pump & gauge (Inflates to 15 PSI), removable center fin and repair kit.
2 YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY – Isle is a brand that offers exceptional quality products combined with strong design credentials.Their 12 ft Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board we’re reviewing here is backed up with a peace-of-mind 2 year manufacturer warranty that covers everything from the materials used to defects in workmanship.
More In-Depth Info On The Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
All in all, if you’re into stand up paddleboarding at all, I think the Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board a good option for you.The unique pulled nose and tail shape gives the board much better glide and ability to cut through choppy water which makes it a better overall performing flat water paddle board.Its relatively large volume on the other hand allows it to hold up to 300 lbs.
Although the Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable SUP board is quite long, it rolls up to a sleeping bag size.That said,you can store it in a closet or any other small area in which a typical hard SUP board would never fit. And yes, rigid stand up paddle boards might be a great option for some, but not others; other might not have the convenience of a large garage or space to store a hard board or have to take the stairs or an elevator going to and coming back from the water. An inflatable ISUP can be stored and taken just about anywhere you may want it to go.
When it comes to traveling you can check it in to a plane, and if you’re taking a car, simply throw the bag in the trunk and hit the road! no fuss, no muss.
Additinally,and unlike hard SUP boards built with EPS foam that can become quite unstable in extreme temperatures and causes the board to delaminate in extreme circumstances, the Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable SUP board is built with highly durable military grade PVC material and drop stitch construction that can withstand extreme conditions and a fair amount of abuse.That said , it’s worth every penny.
Benefits of the Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable SUP
Rigidity/Buoyancy – The lack of these two things has been the #1 complaint to riders for over a long time.ISLE has done a great job turning what was typically 4 inches to 6 inches thickness.They’ve also managed to increase the width to 30 inches for maximum stability.
Accessories – Isle Surf Boards didnt skimp on anything to cut the costs.To the contracy , the board is well-made and it has all the essentials to get you started.It comes with High pressure hand pump & gauge. adjustable 3 piece travel paddle that breaks down for easy travelling and adjusts to varying rider heights.Additionally,the board has a comfortable deck pad and carry handle that makes the board easy to carry when fully inflated.It also features one metal D-ring on the tail for board leash attachment and 4 additional D-rings on the deck towards the nose of the board which constitute a crisscross bungee that can be used to hold onboard cargo.
Isle 12 ft 6 inch Inflatable SUP Specifications
Model : Touring Flatwater
Length : 12 ft 6 inches
Width : 30 inches
Thickness : 6 inches
Weight : 32 lbs
Fin Set Up : 9 inch Center Box Fin & 2 Side Fins
Construction : Drop Stitch PVC Inflatable SUP
Traction Pad : Super Soft EVA Diamond Groove 1 Piece Traction Pad
D-Rings 4 on the deck for rigging kits – 1 on the tail for a leash
If you’re on a budget and looking for a decent inflatable stand up paddleboard that comes with a pump and carry bag, then Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard is your best choice. It’s also one of the cheaper iSUP board on the market.
Pros :
Tie-downs for secure transport.
Comes with pump and gauge.
Durable construction materials.
Cons :
Pressure gauge needle not always accurate.
Not great in larger waves (Granted. This is to be expected its not a surf board).
Subpar tracking at times.
We have reviewed several inflatable SUP boards on this site. We believe that Solstice makes a great product, and the “Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard” is no exception.It’s actually one of the top rated stand up paddle boards on many online retailer stores including Amazon.
Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard is a perfect all around flat water board for beginners.It’s sleek, lightweight and moves decently fast.It’s has a 4″ depth and a single layer core,and it’s made with 1000 denier 3 ply PVC reinforced material, and as a result, it’s very strong and can hold riders of almost any size with no flex whatsoever.
If you were to buy this Solstice Bali inflatable SUP board, we highly recommend buying it online.You’ll end up saving hundreds of dollars.
If you were to buy it in a local store, it could run you about $900 or so based on the retail price.It is normally around half price with free shipping when you order online.That’s a major bargain.
10′ 8″ long X 32″ wide with a super rigid core thickness of 4″.
Stable and easy to ride due to its wide shape.
Made of durable 1000-Denier 3-ply PVC material and Double overlap drop stitch construction for maximum durability.
Multi-layer construction reduces flex.
Large, non-slip traction top pad.
Tri-fin setup.
Center carry handle.
Folds to 32″ for an easy transportation or storage.
4 stainless tie-downs for securing gear.
3-piece aluminum paddle adjusts from 64″ to 84″.
Inflatable paddleboard dimensions: 128″ x 29.5″.
Maximum weight capacity : 250 lbs.
More In-Depth Info On The Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard
Solstice Bali iSUP has a lot of points for design and aesthetics. This thing looks gorgeous.Its sleek, lightweight design and tri-fin setup allow for outstanding performance and tracking in a variety of water conditions. Its wide shape on the other hand allows for greater stability.Additinally,its multi-layer construction prevents flex and deflection.To that end,the “Solstice Bali inflatable SUP board” would be a great buy for any skill level looking for an affordable stable board that can be used in a wide range of activities including all-around cruising and small wave riding.
I would feel quite comfortable taking it out to areas where there are small waves but just not to the areas where the waves break. It is highly buoyant and doesn’t cut through surf like a typical surfboard.Additionally,its skin is tough enough to handle shore landings and to withstand a fair amount of abuse.
To be honest, we weren’t too familiar with this inflatable SUP board prior to using. However, The Solstice Bali iSUP board quickly caught our attention. I mean, this board performed quite nicely.First, at the recommended 15 PSI, the board was very solid for my 165 lbs and I couldn’t detect any flex or deflection while standing, getting up and down or while bouncing on the board.
All things considered, I’m really quite pleased by Solstice Bali. It gives you a nice paddle boarding experience, and it’s a wonderfully cost-effective measure for those people who don’t want to break the bank buying all the bits and bobs needed for a full successful SUP”ing experience, as the “Solstice Bali” comes with everything you’ll ever need to start SUP”ing including a carry bag, pump & gauge.The downside, however, is that the Solstice Bali iSUP board doesn’t come with a paddle,and good paddle of decent quality are a bit hard to find without spending a fair chunk of your time and money.
No product is perfect and yet this inflatable stand up paddle board comes pretty darn close to being perfect.
More On The Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard
Now that you have an overview of the “Solstice Bali” iSUP board, and what to expect from it, let me answer some of the questions that you might have about it before you buy.
