The Top 7 Paddle Boards For Beginners
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Ah, your first paddle board, there’s no better memory than searching for and finally getting your very first SUP! It’s one of those memories that will just stick with you when you’re one day on your pro-board tearing through the water on a SUP that right now you could only dream of being good enough to ride.
In this article, not only am I going to break down everything you need to know before making that fantastic purchase, I’m going to tell you 7 of the best paddle boards for beginners. So let’s get into it!
Inflatable Vs. Non-Inflatable
This is one of those things you’re going to have to discover on your own in terms of which one you prefer. But, honestly, you can’t go wrong either way. There are some exemption inflatable boards out there as much as there are exception hard paddle boards. Similarly, both options have their own awful products mixed among the great ones.
In terms of the difference between the two, there are a few significant differences beyond the initial one is an inflatable board, and the other is a hard paddle board. Further differences mainly come in the following forms;
Durability – Inflatables are usually more durable than hard paddle boards.
Storage – Inflatables are easy to store.
Portability – Inflatables are easier to cart around as they can be inflated at the beach or water source.
Performance – traditional hard paddle boards are better in the performance department.
Cost – Cost can vary on both types of paddle boards, but overall, inflatables are cheaper. Both types of boards have cheap and expensive options, however.
The Classifications of SUPs
There are several types of different uses for SUPs, and they’re classified according to those abilities. Here are the different types of SUP classifications;
All-Around SUP
Standard all-around SUPs are often longer, wider, and thicker than other boards. As its name suggests, the all-around SUP is a versatile board that can be used in numerous conditions and is the most commonly purchased type of SUP. Unless you’re looking for one of these other classifications of paddle boards, you can’t go wrong with an all-around SUP.
SUP Surfing
Looking to hang ten? Shred some gnarly waves? Then you’re going to need a SUP surfing board. However, it’s important to note that these aren’t really meant for beginners (so don’t expect to see any on this list) and are primarily used by intermediate paddlers and beyond. In addition, SUP surfing boards are different from other boards due to their shorter length, narrowness, and, more specifically, narrow tail and nose.
Fitness or Yoga
There’s a new trend taking off, and honestly, it sounds peaceful as all hell called YOW! YOW stands for Yogo-on-Water and is where you go out on your paddle board and do yoga on the board while on the water! Beats the boring gym aesthetic. Yoga paddle boards are usually wider to provide more stable and balanced platforms capable of accepting more movement than usual.
Touring Or Racing
In terms of touring boards, you’re looking at a longer SUP than your standard all-around board. They feature no rocker and have a pointy nose. If you’re looking to take the lakes on and cruise, then this is perfect for you. However, touring boards are also ideal for training for bigger, better, and different types of SUPs.
Racing SUPs are somewhat like touring SUPs, but they are far narrower to allow for more substantial speeds. Racing SUPS are very difficult to stand on as they’re usually the least stable of all the paddle boards.
Fishing
There are very few boards out there aimed solely at fishing, but they do exist. Fishing SUPs are commonly wider to allow for more stability. However, most people opt for an all-around board for fishing as fishing SUPs can be pricy when attached to a ‘classification’ title.
Kids
The biggest difference between a kid’s SUP and any other SUP on this list is size. Most SUP boards for kids are about 8’, but this can vary from kid to kid, depending on their height and weight.
Top 7 Best Paddle Boards For Beginners
After an exhaustive search, here are the seven best paddle boards for beginners.
Thurso Waterwalker 132
Weight | 26 lbs |
Max Capacity | 160 – 210 lbs |
Dimensions | 11’ x 32” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
Thurso is one of paddle boardings’ strongest brands. They always deliver exceptional products; the Waterwalker is another excellent example. The design of the Waterwalker is a stunning wood grain look which really looks fantastic.
Recently, Thurso dropped several pounds from this board after they began making them with lighter woven drop-stitch. This has meant the board retained a majority of its outstanding qualities and gained better speed and added durability.
The Waterwalker boasts numerous fantastic features and additional items such as an EVA deck pad, bungee areas front and back, an action mount, and a paddle holder on each side. It’s disappointing that there’s only a single camera mount, but this isn’t enough to dismiss the board. Additionally, the Waterwalker has several included items: a pump, repair kit, carbon hybrid paddle, and a backpack.
This board is a prime example of why Thurso’s one of the best in the business regarding paddle boarding SUP boards and gear.
Key Features
- Light-woven drop-stitch construction
- Woodgrain design
Pros
- Rigid
- Great durable build quality
- Comes with several high-quality accessories
Cons
- It only has one action mount
Blackfin Model XL
Weight | 29 lbs |
Max Capacity | 480 lbs |
Dimensions | 11’6” x 34” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
This board is a big boy and is more for the bigger beginner sup riders, so if you’re somebody who’s on the small side, maybe gloss over this pick.
The Blackfin Model XL is a long, wide, and sturdy board for bigger paddle boarders to enjoy. While it’s bigger, it still retains some impressive abilities in terms of speed and glide. In addition, the board features eight action mounts, 20 d-rings, three fin system – which is removable, and has attachment points for fishing rods!
With all the additional goodies you get, you’re getting a well-rounded, relatively robust board considering its size. So if you’re someone a little bigger and want to learn and enjoy paddle boarding, I think this board is for you.
Key Features
- Triple-layer composite PVC
- 8 action mounts
- Tri-fin system
- 20 D-rings
- Carbon shaft paddle
Pros
- Some of the best stability of any beginner board
- Durable
- Numerous attachment points
- Wheeled backpack
Cons
- Smaller paddlers may have difficulty handling and controlling this beast
iRocker Nautical
Weight | 20 lbs |
Max Capacity | 240 lbs |
Dimensions | 10’6” x 32” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
iRocker is such a successful brand in so many different areas of outdoor living. They killed it with their Budget board, the iRocker Nautical. Despite its insanely reasonable price, this board is actually very well made.
The build quality of the Nautical is dual-layer military-grade Drop stitch, and it can take a beating. In terms of performance, the Nautical is sturdy that can handle maneuvering well, thanks to its efficient design. Overall, it’s rigid, stable, doesn’t flex, and is a good size.
The iRocker Nautical features a straightforward design with three color options available; aqua, blue, and white. It’s equipped with bungee straps, additional D-rings, and three grab handles, making it really easy to move around.
Like a few options on this list, the Nautical is loaded with additional items, which honestly make this SUP a steal. It comes with a leash, pump, backpack, and a fiberglass adjustable paddle. What can we really say other than iRocker really delivered, yet again.
You can read my full review of the iRocker Nautical here.
Key Features
- 13 D-rings
- Dual-layer military-grade Drop stitch material
- Bungee storage at the front (six-point)
- Fiberglass paddle (Included)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Comes with high-quality accessories
- Responsive
- Affordable
Cons
- Max capacity is low
10’6 / 11’6 Gili Meno
Weight | 23 lbs (10’6) 24 lbs (11’6) |
Max Capacity | 450 lbs (10’6) 485 lbs (11’6) |
Dimensions | 10’ 6” x 35” x 6” (10’6) 11’ 6” x 33” x 6” (11’6) |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | Yoga and Fitness |
Looking to center yourself and open your chakras? Well, we recommend using the Meno Yoga Board to go out to sea and enjoy sunrise yoga in the morning! Gili has worked in this space a long time, and their boards are highly trusted. Well, that trust hasn’t been broken with the Meno.
Made from a triple-layer fusion laminate PVC, you’re getting a board that can take your weight, provide you space, and lasts longer than all the inner peace you’re going to gain from YOW. Obviously, because this is a board designed to be the choice for yoga, don’t expect to be fast and furious once the yoga is over. The Meno isn’t a very fast board due to its size.
With the Meno, you’ll get a whole host of extras, as well as a five-piece fin kit and more. Additionally, color options include green or teal. The Meno SUP has three grab handles in the center, nose, and teal. Finally, document your YOW sessions by utilizing the Scotty mounts attached for cameras and other items.
This is another great board for Gili. Just be sure to understand its primary purpose before you lose your inner peace realizing your mistake.
Key Features
- Carbon fiber rail
- Three carry handles
- Multiple color and size options
- Triple-layer fusion-laminated PVC construction
Pros
- Great stability
- Durable
- Rigid
Cons
- Slow
Nixy Newport G4
Weight | 22.11 lbs |
Max Capacity | 300 lbs |
Dimensions | 11’2” x 29” x 4.8” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
When it comes to looks, Nixy Newport G4 probably wins. It has this really nice wooden style while also adding in tropical elements to the design, and it’s just really perfect for SUP beach use. You have a few color options: aqua, blue, purple, Exuma, and Maui. I wouldn’t really go for anything other than the Maui or Exuma. They’re so bright and vibrant with their patterns, and the other color choices are a little boring.
The Newport G4 as a board is light, durable. It has a tremendous woven drop-stitch construction and uses NIXY’s ultralight fusion technology. In addition, you’ll get a stable ride out of the Newport G4, as it’s a broader board that’s stable and rigid.
Like so many on this list, NIXY has thrown everything but the kitchen sink your way in terms of free accessories. You can’t go wrong with this board. The cons are so minuscule that they might as well not even matter.
Key Features
- Carbon hybrid paddle
- Action mounts
- 3-stage pump with removable handles and folding feet
Pros
- Lightweight
- Stable
- Durable with a great build quality
- Stiff and rigid
Cons
- The front cargo area isn’t as big as it could have been
- Awkward bungee paddle holder
iRocker All Around 11’
Weight | 26 lbs |
Max Capacity | 435 lbs |
Dimensions | 11’ x 32” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
Another iRocker entry is the All-Around 11. Again, build quality remains a priority for iRocker, which is evident in their utilizing a triple-layer PVC construction. As a result, the All Around 11 is lighter than most boards, very durable, and able to handle a weight of 435 lbs.
You’ll have an easy time on this board as it’s stable, wide, and easy to control. In terms of design, you have something a little more fun than that of the Nautical, featuring brighter colors with options including; orange, gray, white, aqua, teal, or blue.
Additional features include all those added products which the Nautical got, except the paddle with the All Around is made of a carbon blend. Additionally, the board features 20-d rings, four action mounts, and two bungee storage areas on both the front and the back.
If you were going to stick to a brand like iRocker, you wouldn’t go wrong with either of these choices between iRocker SUPs.
Key Features
- 20 D-rings
- Four action mounts
- Triple-layer composite, military-grade PVC construction
- Three-fin system
- Evo deck pad
- Six color options
Pros
- All removable fins
- Some of the best construction of any board on this list
- Stable
- Durable
Cons
- No universal fin box
Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
Weight |
33 lbs |
Max Capacity | 287 lbs |
Dimensions | 10’8” x 33” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
The Bluefin Cruise is an excellent board for paddle board beginners for multiple reasons. First, the low price tag and quality make something about this board seem too good to be true. The Bluefin Cruise SUP is a strong board for beginners, offering a stable ride on a well-built SUP.
At the end of the day, if you’re unhappy, then let Bluefin know because they have a 5-year warranty! This is confidence in a product right there!
The board is heavy, so be prepared for that to be the case when you’re attempting to travel with it or cart it around. But, overall, despite the weight, you’re able to get some real action out of this board and even mount a GoPro on so you can relive the moments!
Key Features
- Center carrying handle doubles as a paddle holder
- Grab handles at nose and tail, providing easier handling
- Raised kicktail, which is great for added control
Pros
- Value for money
- Durable
- Stable
- GoPro camera mount
- A warranty unlike any other (5 years)
Cons
- Heavy
Atoll iSUP
Weight | 21 lbs |
Max Capacity | 400 lbs. (Average) 700 lbs. (highest) |
Dimensions | 11 ft. x 32” x 6” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
The Atoll 11’ is an extremely popular board amongst paddle boarders across the skill spectrum and for good reason.
Due to the Atoll 11’s size, it’s the perfect balance of stability without the board being too bulky. The Korean drops strict technology combined with the machine laminated dual-layer PVC means this board will be around for a long time and is up for the harshest of challenges. Another great aspect of its construction is the three-fin system, which helps with maneuverability.
The Atoll 11 comes with an extensive list of additional items, including; a leash, paddle, pump, bag, and more.
In terms of design, the Atoll 11 has four color options to choose from; desert sand, army green, light blue, and aquamarine. In addition, the board features two carry handles, 15 D-rings, and a bungee storage area at the front.
The Atoll 11 should be considered a serious contender for beginners to practice and grow as a new paddle boarder.
Key Features
- 15 D-rings
- Korean Drop stitch technology
- Four color options
- Large deck pad
- Three fin system
Pros
- Durable
- Stable
- High-quality accessories included
- Really impressive weight capacity
Cons
- No nose carry handle
BONUS (For the Children): Bluefin Cruise Jr.
Weight | N/A |
Max Capacity | 264 lbs |
Dimensions | 11’2” x 29” x 4.8” |
Build | Inflatable |
Recommended Skill Level | Junior Beginner+ |
Use | All-Around |
Didn’t think we’d end the list off without a shout-out for the kids, did you? The Bluefin Cruise Jr. is the perfect tool for your child to start going out on the water, getting comfortable and learning how to paddle board like a pro.
Your child will have a board that’s got excellent maneuvering capabilities, a kick pad, and all those additional things that the adults got! This board is designed to be easy to carry, and the three grab handles really help make that happen.
Your kid is going to love the chance to get out on the water in style with their snazzy new Bluefin Cruise Jr.
Key Features
- GoPro Mount
- Tri-fin system
- Double-sided rails (heat-welded)
Pros
- Durable construction
- Stable
- Easy to handle
Cons
- Not suitable for heavier paddlers.
**Note – I listed a variety of boards that appealed to both the beginner with a strict budget and a beginner who was in a position to spend. If its important right now to keep things on the cheaper side, you can find quality boards below $400 here.
Buyers Guide
There are so many things to consider when it comes to getting your first paddle board. How you go about making the right decision requires you to know what you want and understand what each board has to offer. Here are a few things you should know and consider before making the final purchase.
Construction Material
Which material a company predominantly uses will always depend on the company. However, most companies experiment with almost all the available material options and vary their product lines accordingly.
Carbon Fibre
Carbon Fibre is one of the more expensive materials associated with paddle board construction. However, this material makes for lightweight boards that glide well over other boards using various alternative materials.
Fiberglass
You have to be really careful with fiberglass paddle boards. It’s far too easy to be conned into buying a SUP made of this material only to realize it’s a poorly made board. So don’t get blindsided when they mention fiberglass as a material used in the board’s construction.
Fiberglass is usually combined with Epoxy, and board makers all have various ways to use these materials to make durable and rugged boards.
PVC
When it comes to iSUPs you’ll find a vast majority, if not all, feature PVC. The amount of PVC layering can vary from iSUP to iSUP. As far as materials are concerned, PVC is durable and makes inflatable boards almost indestructible.
EPS Foam
Hard paddle SUPs make use of EPS foam and layer the board with a variety of other materials. The materials they use in combination with EPS foam can be carbon fiber, fiberglass, wood, or plastic. In other cases, they can be completely hollow.
Wood
Stylish, a sense of authenticity, pricy are just a few ways to describe a wooden paddle board. Wooden SUPs are beautiful boards that are durable and harken back to the origin of the sport. However, their durability and style come at a pretty hefty price tag, so a beginner should be staying clear of these until they’re ready for the commitment.
Utility
If you’re looking for a beginner board, you need to be smart and avoid diving into heavily classified boards. You’re not a master of the water or board yet, so start slow and go for something more your speed.
All-around boards are what you should be looking at, which is why this list is filled to the brim with boards for beginners that are all-around boards. An all-around board allows for some experimentation into what specific boards offer better as they’re more specialized.
Stability
The truth is that while a board is a board, non-inflatable SUPs will always provide the best performance compared to inflatables. A non-inflatable SUP is;
- More agile
- Feature better glide
- Catch waves easier
Non-inflatable boards will be the best option for SUP racing, surfing, and all your longer distanced adventures.
FAQ
Here are some of the questions that come up when people consider getting a SUP board for beginners.
Which is better for beginners, inflatable or hardboard SUP?
Inflatable boards are considered the better option for beginners to paddle boarding for a few reasons;
- They’re more affordable – no beginner intends to stick with their first SUP forever and therefore isn’t looking to break the bank on a new board.
- Inflatable paddle boards are usually a complete package deal – this means you’re getting the board, the paddle, the accessories, and everything you need, bar a few items, to start your paddle boarding journey. The only thing that definitely won’t be included is a PFD; everything else is potentially there and ready to be used.
- Easy storage and transport – if you live in an apartment, or don’t have access to a car, then an inflatable means you can easily store your SUP and travel with it using whatever means of transport you have available. As a result, iSUPs make the sport more accessible to larger swaths of people.
How long, wide, and thick should a board for beginners be?
The length of your paddle board, if you’re a young beginner, is between 8 – 10 ft. If you’re an adult beginner, you’re looking at 10’6 to 12 ft.
The width of your paddle board should allow for stable performance, so you’re looking at 30 inches or more. However, if you’re a bigger person, then consider 33 inches wide or more. Use this sizing calculation here to get a better idea.
The thickness of your board will always vary. However, look out for thicker boards as they float better and can support more weight.
Final Thoughts
So what are you waiting for? Finally, you have all the information you need to start really figuring out what board you’re going to get. You’re about to become closer than ever to hitting the open waters on your very own SUP.
Let us know in the comments which board you chose as your first paddle board! Also, if you have friends who are flirting with the idea of picking up this legendary sport, then share this article with them so you can enjoy the water and sunshine together.
If you’ve never paddle boarded before, take it slow and easy as you get the hang of things. You’re going to love it, even when you make a few mistakes in the beginning. Good luck, and don’t forget to enjoy your time on the water!