Youth paddleboarding has become one of the new and fun ways for kids and teenagers alike to get fresh air and exercise. Especially during the spring and summer, it can be incredibly fun to get out on the water and enjoy the breeze with your kids in tow. Paddleboarding is a sport you can do with most ages of children and it gives families a chance to bond over a fun sport that gets the whole family active.

It is important to get your child the right SUP board for their age as adult paddle boards can be a bit too big and unwieldy for them. You can also save a good amount of money on getting a youth paddle board that perfectly suits your child. The sizing is better for your child and comes in multiple styles and helps with balancing so your child who is just learning will have an easier time getting adjusted.

But what makes a good youth SUP board and what are the best brands to consider when you’re just starting your child out on this hobby?

What To Consider Before Buying a Youth Paddle Board

While kids and teens tend to think they are ready for everything adult, having a paddleboard or SUP board that suits them specifically is really important. The wrong board can cause injury, accidents, or make it harder for them to enjoy or succeed at the sport. Not to mention, paddleboards can be expensive and if you have the wrong kind you’ll be spending more money in the long run.

You should consider a few important things before you shell out on a paddleboard for these reasons specifically.

Age

Your child’s age is important to take into account when you’re going to select a SUP board. Youth boards tend to be smaller than regular ones, so if your child is still relatively young, they’ll benefit from having a board they can grow into. Younger kids will also need a stable and durable board to handle being roughed up by them the longer they use them.

Boards for younger kids tend to come with less accessories and attachments to help prevent accidents or potential loss as kids have a hard time keeping up with too many extras.

Price

If your child is still growing, you won’t want to drop too much on a board you’ll have to replace once they grow out of it. Not to mention, kids need a durable and affordable board as they have a habit of damaging or roughing things up over time. It is also important to ensure the price of the paddleboard matches the board you are paying for.

Some lower quality boards will market themselves at higher price points but their stability and durability won’t match the price. If your child’s board is a bit more expensive you should ensure it comes with features that match the price point like promises for higher quality performance.

Build

Whether you’re going with hardboard or an inflatable, the build of the board should match your child. For most kids, we recommend inflatable boards as the harder-built ones can be difficult to maneuver and can even break if mishandled. Inflatable boards tend to be a bit more affordable but if your child is taller or heavier they might do better with something harder and sturdier. Take in their height and weight when you’re considering the build you’re going to buy so they have the right board for them.

Depending on their level of interest and skill as well you can factor in features and appearance. A high-performing youth board would be a good purchase for a child that’s really looking to hone their skills. If your child is really interested in the sport, a board with extra features and sturdiness would benefit them more than a board that’s just the basic skill level.

Beginners will do better with a board that is more basic and has the durability and stability they need to keep learning.

Recommended Youth Paddle Boards

Once you’ve made note of the specifications you need for your child’s board you can start looking into options. Some things to take into account before you purchase is how easy it will be to transport the board, the price, and the equipment that comes with it. While these aren’t the end all be all of importance, they do hold a lot of weight depending on your child, your budget, and your needs.

1. YASKA Children’s Inflatable SUP Board

>>Check current price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a reliable youth SUP board, this is a really great option. The YASKA Children’s SUP board is 10.6 feet so your child has plenty of room but can also grow into it if they’re still relatively little. Getting a board that is of average size will work to prevent the possibility of needing to replace it once they grow a little bigger.

This board comes equipped with a non-slip deck so you don’t have to worry about any accidents on the water. It also comes with a leash and an ankle strap so it won’t get lost in the water. The detachable fin and the three-piece ore are also convenient and can be stored away in the waterproof carrying bag so your child won’t lose a single piece.

The board is also versatile and can be used by multiple ages for a variety of water-based sports like paddling, floating, or fishing. The YASKA is high-quality and inflatable to make it easy for your child to navigate and remain stable. Choppier waters can be a little bit difficult to navigate so having a stable and durable board so your child can stay safe and have fun.

It is also incredibly affordable for a board of its quality. Check the current price over at Amazon. There is even a repair kit to help with any potential repairs that you might need to tend to for your little paddleboarder.

Pros

• Affordable and easy to purchase
• Versatile for multiple ages
• Durable, sturdy, and non-slip

Cons

• Occasionally faulty pump-valve
• Probably can’t handle both you and your child

2. Caroma Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

>>Check current price on Amazon

If you want an easy-to-transport board that comes with plenty of accessories and versatility, the Caroma Inflatable SUP is exactly what you’re looking for. The listing we’ve provided has eight options, all of which have a thoroughly included kit. The complete kit comes with an adjustable paddle that can be broken down into three pieces, a waterproof storage bag, a pump, an ankle leash, a removable fin, and a helpful repair kit.

It is light enough to transport at about 20 pounds so you and your child won’t be struggling to carry it around. The board itself can handle up to 250 pounds so if you’re teaching your child how to use it you both might be able to balance on the board. It also has a no-slip deck so that you don’t have to worry about your child’s safety.

All of your options will vary in colors, designs, and they come at different price points. This way your child can choose their favorite and be happy with their board, or if you’ve got more than one interested in paddleboarding. It is made from military-grade PVC, so you’ll know the board is sturdy and durable enough to handle anything on the water.

Pros

• Wide variety of options and accessories
• Incredibly sturdy and reliable
• Ideal for transport and multi-use

Cons

• Possible leakage

3. Rumlad Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

>>Check current price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a more affordable and simple board for your children, Rumlad’s got the model for you. Their design is extra wide so that your child can balance without falling over the edge. It is designed entirely for youth paddle boarders as the max weight is 165 pounds so the board won’t tip.

The board is multi-functional so your child can paddleboard, surf, fish, or just observe the sights with ease and comfort. It comes with a multitude of features and accessories as well so you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything. The bundle includes an adjustable aluminum paddle, a special pump, a waterproof bag for your phone, and a waterproof backpack for your gear as well.

It also has a leash that can be attached to your ankle so you don’t have to worry about your child drifting away from their board or vice versa. It comes at a great price as well with bundle options.

Pros

• Plenty of accessories
• Multi-functionality
• Great price

Cons

• Doesn’t hold much weight

4. Weekender Nano Kids’ Inflatable SUP

>>Check current price over at retrospec

If you’re looking for an impressive piece of gear that comes in at an incredible price, the Weekender Nano Kids’ Inflatable SUP is exactly what you need. It is a compact and easy-to-navigate board so neither you nor your child will have to drag around something heavy or cumbersome. It also has a textured foam deck so you don’t have to worry about your child slipping off the board even when the whole thing is soaking wet.

This SUP comes with the complete package of gear so your child won’t be left without what they need when they are out on the water. The package comes with an adjustable paddle, a high-quality pump, fins that can be removed, a waterproof phone case, and a carrying case for the gear. It also includes a sturdy leash that will attach to your child’s ankle so they and their board don’t drift away.

This board and the whole package also comes at an amazing price for the impressive features and the Weekender name. The package comes in two amazing colors such as starfish which is a mix of pink and blow, as well as marina which is lime green and blue.

Pros

• Sturdy but light board
• Impressive accessories package
• Durability and the impressive Weekender name

Cons

• Might not be suitable for bigger kids

5. Thurso Surf Prodigy Junior SUP

>>Check current price at Amazon

Coming in at the highest price on the list is the Thurso Surf Prodigy Junior SUP, but it packs a big punch for the hefty price. The board is 7 feet and 6 inches with a width of 30 inches so it should be able to hold your child just fine without any tipping. This board is made specifically for smaller paddlers so your child can get the experience of a professional board from a junior product.

It comes with a lot of accessories as well so your child has everything they need in a convenient package. It has a waterproof storage backpack, an adjustable and durable paddle, and a long leash that will ensure your child’s board doesn’t drift from them. It has a double-layer build with woven drop-stitching so the board itself is durable and stable.

It comes in three appealing colors such as Azure, Magenta, and Emerald. This price is a bit hefty but the board is professional and stable, so you know your child is getting the best.

Pros

• Size suited for a junior paddleboarder
• Durable and helpful accessories
• Sturdy build

Cons

• Price is a bit much for a junior paddleboard

Conclusion

All of these boards are impressive in their own rights and you can certainly suss out exactly which board will suit your child’s needs. Most of these packages come with everything you’ll need so all you need to factor in is price, size, and level of experience. A great board will help develop your child’s hobby further so the right board is crucial.

As long as your child enjoys their board and it suits their needs, whichever you choose will do exactly what it should. Stay safe and happy paddling!