Start with an Inflatable Paddle Board

An inflatable paddle board was a really great option for my first paddle board. I definitely want to get a hard surface board at some point, but for beginners, I think using an inflatable paddle board (SUP) is the way to go. Most Beginners are just looking for something to get them out on the water and have a great experience, which is exactly what an inflatable paddle board will give you. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits that I’ve discovered with starting with an inflatable paddle board.

What is an inflatable paddle board?

An inflatable paddle board is a type of stand up paddle board that consists of being inflated by air to replicate a hard surface stand up paddle board.

Quick Answers to Common Questions with Inflatable SUP

• How much weight will an inflatable hold? Generally it depends on the size of the board, but a 10’6 board that I own will handle 300lbs. So, inflatables can still carry a decent amount of weight.
• How long does it take to inflate? It typically takes around 5 minutes to inflate a paddle board using a hand pump. An electric pump will make inflating a lot quicker typically no more than a minute.
• Can I still do other activities like yoga? Absolutely, the majority of the activities you can do with a hard surface board you can do with an inflatable. Some things like surfing, will still be better with a hard surface board, but inflatable’s still allow you to do most activities.
• Are they stable? I think when we use the term inflatable, its common to think of something like an air mattress that has a lot of give when you lay on it. An inflatable SUP is very sturdy when properly inflated and can feel similar to a hard surface board. You won’t be sinking into the board when fully inflated to the appropriate PSI.
• Will they damage easily? Inflatable paddle boards are made of high quality materials that hold up very well. They can also simply be repaired.

What is an inflatable paddle board made out of?

EVA and PVC materials are commonly used for inflatable paddle boards.

EVA is generally used for the traction pad and is a foam like material that provides comfort when standing on your paddle board.

PVC is a strong plastic like material that is used for the overall construction of the board.

It’s better to get double layered or thicker PVC based inflatables.

Drop stitch technology is used by creating an inner core with thousands of fibers, so your board isn’t hollow.

Generally, 6-inch board thickness is good for providing adequate support and not bowing in the middle with weight.

A proper PSI for inflation is generally in the 17-22 PSI range but check your board requirements.

I provide more insight here on paddle board paddles and paddle board fins.

Why should I get an Inflatable Paddle Board

When I started my journey into paddle boarding, I discovered that an inflatable paddle board offers many pro’s.

I was a little skeptical about the overall experience of using an inflatable paddle board.

At first, it just seemed like the quality wouldn’t be there, but that wasn’t the case at all.

After purchasing my Merax Inflatable Paddle Board, I quickly learned that I made the right decision to fit my beginner expectations.

Inflatable Paddle Boards are very solid options and technology has improved the overall quality of inflatable boards.

These are some of the reasons why I think Inflatable paddle boards are great for your first paddle board or for the beginner.

Easy to Store

This was my number one reason for getting an inflatable paddle board.

Although, you can find creative ways to store a paddle board, check out my post here on paddle board storage.

With an inflatable paddle board, once you let the air out of the board, it can be rolled or folded up into a storage bag.

It’s pretty similar to storing a large tent. You do want to make sure you keep it clean when you store it and out of a really hot place.

Light and Compact

Hard surface boards can be a little more difficult to transport, due to the extra weight.

An inflatable is relatively lightweight and easy to carry down to the water.

Easier to Repair

When you chip, scratch, or dent a hard surface board it can be a challenge to repair.

Not only is it difficult, but can be costly.

Patch kits are generally provided for an inflatable, so unless it’s a major tear, a small hole can easily be repaired.

Usually comes Equipped

When you buy an inflatable paddle board it usually comes with all the necessary equipment to get out and ride.

Things like a paddle, storage bag, pump, fin, bungee storage, traction pad, and carrying handles will either be pre-installed or come with your SUP package.

This can be great for a beginner that just wants to get going.

Getting more quality accessories can come as you get more into paddle boarding.

Here are some cool accessories to check out.

Durability

Depending on where you are primarily going to be riding will determine how important durability is for you.

An inflatable SUP will handle more rough waters like a river or white water rafting better than a hard surface board.

Transport

It’s a lot easier to toss a bag in the back seat of your vehicle to transport an inflatable SUP when transporting, than needing to secure a hard surface board on the top of your vehicle.

Value

Cost is another major factor with going with the inflatable paddle board option.

As previously mentioned, most of the must have equipment comes with the inflatable paddle board and you can find some relatively low-cost inflatable paddle boards to meet your needs.

Versatile

All the health and wellness benefits that are enjoyed from paddle boarding, can be achieved with an inflatable paddle board.

Here is my post on the health benefits of paddle boarding.

All the activities that I want to do on a paddle board like fishing, spending time with my kids, and fitness activities I can do with my inflatable paddle board.

I can also utilize various accessories like a SUP chair or electric motor to enhance my experience to my inflatable paddle board.

When I decide to get a hard surface board, this is a great option to hand down to my kids.

In conclusion, a paddle board newbie won’t be disappointed with an inflatable paddle board. It’s going to be a great board to do get out in the water and start enjoying the paddle board experience.

Please comment below on anything you enjoyed from this post.