Best Paddle Boards for Ultimate Water Adventures

If you haven't already got an inflatable paddle board then this is the best time to get yourself one. With paddle boarding seeing a huge uptake since the pandemic, more and more choices have become available on the market now. They are a great way to explore the waters and make for some of the most relaxing ways to spend your day. You can even spend it with your family if you own one of the best multi-person inflatable paddle boards.

In this article, we've tested the top paddle boards available on the market right now and are excited to share our findings with you. Most of these paddle boards below come with a manual pump but we’ve tested these using our range of stand up paddle board electric pumps to help us out with inflating them and deflating them.

We have used the Airbank Puffer Pro and Topump TPS300 to help us out with that especially when it comes to deflating the paddle boards to see if we could fit all the bonus items back in the storage bag.

Moreover, we'll walk you through each board's unique features and performance so you can find the perfect one. Whether you're an experienced paddleboarder who’s visiting the most unique places to paddle board in the UK or a newbie just starting your watersport journey, these boards promise a fantastic experience on the water.

We have spent hours talking to influencers and paddle boarders to see which ones are popular on the market right now and hope you enjoy the detailed reviews below.

But, if you are in a hurry then here's a quick summary of the best inflatable paddle boards which we ended up going with. There's a brief overview of their qualities and some of them are on sale so might be worth a look.

Top of our list is one of the big powerhouses in the inflatable market. This is the Cruise range from Bluefin who are an award winning board supplier with equipment designed in the UK. You may even have seen them mentioned before in our best electric rechargeable paddle board pump article where Bluefin was featured for its durable air pump.

If you would like a more detailed review than have a read of our Bluefin Cruise Carbon in-depth review article. The Cruise SUP model is there staple option that is most versatile and stable. It is made from ultra-durable 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate PVC & Pro Weave Drop Stitch. This makes it highly rigid and sturdy even at 28 PSI.

One thing that makes Bluefin different to other companies is its commitment to environmental sustainability including planting a tree with every purchase, showcasing its dedication to the environment. This SUP board is not just a board but represents a wider purpose and motive that the brand shares.

What really makes them stand out for us from all the other paddle board brands is the 5 year warranty which is unheard of in the inflatable world. This is why they are so popular and we keep hearing from loyal customers as you can feel at ease whilst out on the water.

Moreover, this one has a D-ring system that easily converts it into a kayak with a comfortable seat and an action camera mount to capture every moment. The travel backpack, ergonomic fiberglass paddle, smart lock fin, and double-action pump provide convenience, comfort, and optimal performance. This makes it the ideal package supported by responsive customer care.

Overall, the Bluefin Cruise paddle board is our best rated inflatable paddle board on the market right now because of it's superior technology and build quality. It is one of the most popular companies within the paddle board world and you can see how passionate they are about the products as well as projects and missions outside of the sales part. The Cruise model itself is a stable board that has a fantastic grip on the surface of the board. It performs well on calmer waters as well as in the choppy sea. It is on the more expensive side but if its within your budget and taking into account the 5 year warranty, you will not be disappointed with this.

Next, we introduce Triclicks, who are a relatively unheard-of company when it comes to paddle boards and have gone a little under the radar especially considering their price point. It's the perfect paddle board for both beginners and experienced paddlers who are looking for something on the budget friendly side. Whether you're looking to surf, fish, practice yoga, or enjoy a calm river paddling, this paddle board has you covered.

The best part? You can use it in different water environments like lakes, rivers, or choppy seas. Plus, it's super easy to use. You can assemble it in less than 10 minutes without needing a roof rack.

Moreover, the board is made from durable 3-layer, abrasion-resistant PVC material, ensuring stability and strength. This set has an adjustable paddle, a high-quality leash, a backpack, a hand air pump with a pressure gauge, a detachable center fin, and a repair kit.

And that's not all! With a size of 300 x 76 x 15cm and a maximum load capacity of 350 lbs, this paddle board is perfect for water sports enthusiasts! You can paddle alone, with friends, or even with pets. After use, everything can be neatly stored in a compact backpack for effortless storage.

Overall, considering how much the premium options cost, this is almost too good to be true. You get the complete set as well and meets all your expectations and more when it comes to the overall experience. Great quality build with all the items fitting in the storage bag that is provided which had plenty of room leftover. The fins were easy to attach, which can sometimes be tricky but this one we had no issues with.

So, coming in at number one on our list is is Funwater Classic paddle board. FunWater has taken the paddle board industry by storm with its dynamic and colourful presence in the market. Visiting its website or taking a look at its paddle boards, you can’t help but notice it’s cool designs straight away.

The Classic Tiki Paddle Board is a fantastic all-round option that is perfect for novice and experienced users, offering a stable and versatile paddling experience. Weighing only 17.6 pounds, this inflatable SUP is built to support up to 330 pounds. This makes it both lightweight and sturdy.

Moreover, it has various accessories, including a high-pressure pump, safety line, adjustable aluminum paddle, and a waterproof cell phone pocket. This provides everything you need for a hassle-free day on the water.

Whether you want to paddle, practice yoga, tour, or surf, this multifunctional board provides a secure experience in all conditions. FunWater is dedicated to customer satisfaction, as evidenced by its 3-year paddle board body guarantee and a 1-year warranty for accessories.

Overall, the Funwater Classic Tiki is our best rated inflatable SUP paddle board as this one is unbelievable value for money and very pleased with our experience. All the equipment is supplied to get out on the water and the paddle board was easy to pump. It’s a great size for beginners who need something more stable for getting on and sitting down. Definitely highly recommended to anyone!

Another great all-rounder paddle board and this one is from Hydro-Force. The Oceana SUP is a super cool inflatable paddle board you can use for fun in the water. It's 10ft long, and you can even convert it into a sit-on kayak. It is probably the cheapest kayak conversion option paddle board on the market right now.

It's great for adults up to 120kg (265lbs) and comes with a 2-in-1 kayak seat and extra paddle attachment to keep you comfy. Plus, it's made with super strong and durable drop-stitch material, which is still easy to store.

The non-slip traction pad is perfect for keeping your grip and stability on the water. And it even comes with a travel backpack and deck handle. This makes it super easy to take with you on all your adventures.

Overall, this is a fantastic paddle board for beginners or someone whose just taken up paddling. Even though it’s slightly smaller than other boards at 10ft, it felt sturdy and smooth on the water. You’ll be pleased with it as it includes everything you need to get you out on the water.

If you have read our articles before, you may recognize this next one from Aqua Spirit who featured in our best inflatable kayak post where we loved their inflatable kayak. The Barracuda paddle board is a combination of versatility and performance when it comes to its offering. This 2-in-1 premium board offers the agility of touring models and the stability of leisure boards.

Designed for all skill levels, it guarantees a balanced and responsive ride, whether exploring the most unique paddle board areas in the UK or taking on a racing challenge. Its unique hybrid design, grooved foot pad, and Go-Pro mount ensure a secure and thrilling experience.

Moreover, the package includes a kayak seat, convertible paddle, and many accessories. This makes it an ideal choice for adventurers seeking endless aquatic possibilities.

Overall, this is a fantastic 2 in 1 option that lets you switch from paddle boarding into a kayak. With this, you also have the option to upgrade to a two-person option if you are looking to go on the water with a friend or a partner. This one is 100% worth the money and exceeded all our expectations.

At number 6, it is the inflatable paddle board from Baudelio. We must admit, we hadn't heard of this one before we saw it being mentioned across various websites. These are currently very popular at the moment due to their pricing and their offering overall. We weren't able to find too much about the company itself as they are a relatively new entrant to the market.

With a PVC surface and an EVA non-slip layer, this paddle board can take a beating and keep going. Plus, it's lightweight, weighing only 8kg, so you can easily take it on all your adventures. The slightly wider 33" width makes it ideal for beginners in our opinion as the extra width helps the balance.

The package includes everything you need for a stress-free experience, including a waterproof bag, three fins, an ISUP pump, a double-ended paddle, a backpack, and a foot leash—perfect for beginners who want to get out and start paddling immediately.

There’s also a wide range of colours available and you can instantly see that their boards stand out with cool designs on the surface.

Overall, Baudelio is a relatively new paddle board company that’s making a storm on the paddle board market. This is amazing value for money as well considering the quality and size you get with your purchase. You are sure to get compliments when people see you out on the water with this paddle board.

The SUDOO Inflatable Paddle Board is an excellent choice for those who love paddle boarding. Although a surprise choice potentially as it's quite an unheard of brand, the offering seems to be a good choice in our opinion.

This all-in-one package comes with a versatile board that measures 10 feet in length, 33" in deck width, and 6" in thickness. It provides excellent stability and balance.

Moreover, its durable design ensures optimal performance in various conditions. The non-slip top deck, adjustable aluminum paddle, and secure ankle leash offer a safe and comfortable paddleboarding experience.

The backpack, equipped with 600D material, effortlessly transports the board and accessories. The dual-action pump facilitates quick inflation, and the removable center fin aids in compact storage.

Overall, another great option in terms of value for money. We found it easy to inflate and the carry bag fitted all the items. The extra wide deck is quite handy as well which means you can use it for yoga as well. Definitely worth the money.

The Runwave paddle boards are an affordable option that are designed mainly for cruising. This board is crafted from high-quality PVC material with a robust drop-stitch design, ensuring superior air holding and durability.

Its inflatable and portable nature allows for easy inflation in just 5 minutes and convenient transport to any water body, whether a lake or sea. The non-slip top deck features a unique pattern that caters to beginners' needs, providing extra grip and stability.

The included foot leash ensures safety and prevents the paddle board from getting lost, allowing you to paddle confidently. With a wide 11' length and 33'' deck width, the Runwave board offers enhanced stability and balance, guaranteeing a more comfortable and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.

The complete accessories package includes a backpack, foot leash, high-pressure pump, three fins, paddle, and repair kit. This makes it a comprehensive and reliable choice for all your paddleboarding adventures.

Overall, a fantastic stable board that is great for beginners who are looking to get into paddling. You won’t be able to do racing or long-distance cruising with this but it makes for a great beginners option.

The DURAERO Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board is a game-changer for all water sports lovers! It's the perfect blend of cutting-edge SUP technology and fun. Also, it offers an exciting experience for all ages on lakes, rivers, and sea waves. The board is super durable, easy to maneuver, and fast, making it perfect for those who want to stay fit or paddle for fun.

Moreover, the board is highly durable and incredibly convenient with its woven drop stitch technology. You can convert it between a kayak and a stand-up paddleboard in a snap, so you don't have to choose between them. It's 10.8' Long x 30" Wide x 6" Thick, so it's super stable and offers plenty of space to move around.

The package includes everything you need to start your paddling adventure, including multiple fins, a safety leash, a repair kit, an air pump, an adjustable paddle, and a portable backpack. Plus, it has an action camera mount to easily capture your exciting moments on your paddle tours.

Overall, this is a great paddle board for the money and simplicity. You can use it as kayaks which is a great option over the winter. All the accessories are great and are lightweight to carry around.

Our editorial team conducted extensive research to identify the top inflatable kayaks, considering our own experiences and insights from experts in the field. Our selection process took various factors into account, including:

Dimensions

The dimensions of the inflated kayak were assessed, considering the number of occupants it can accommodate. We analyzed the length and width to gauge stability and maneuverability. Striking the right balance is vital – a kayak that's too bulky might be sluggish, while an unbalanced one could increase the risk of tipping.

Portability

Travel-friendly features were scrutinized, including weight, the presence of a carrying case and any specialized elements that facilitate easy transportation. Our aim was to provide insights into how effortlessly a kayak can be moved, enhancing the overall convenience of your outdoor adventures.

Inflation Mechanism

We examined the ease and speed of inflating and deflating the kayak, especially considering the convenience of doing so near a water body. If you are planning to transport the pump on the kayak, its portability is also crucial.

Durability

Given the potential challenges of navigating water bodies filled with debris, we prioritized inflatable kayaks crafted from robust PVC material with multiple layers. Such construction helps prevent tears and ensures the kayak's longevity. Additionally, we looked for models with multiple air chambers for added flotation in case of minor damage.

Are inflatable kayaks durable?

Yes, modern inflatable kayaks are crafted from sturdy materials like PVC with multiple layers for durability. It makes them resistant to tears and abrasions during water adventures.

How do I inflate an inflatable kayak?

Inflating an inflatable kayak is typically done using a pump, often included with the kayak. Attach the pump, inflate to the recommended pressure, and secure the valves.

Are inflatable kayaks safe?

Yes, inflatable kayaks are designed with safety in mind. They often have multiple air chambers to ensure flotation even if one gets punctured, and they're stable for various water conditions.

How do I store an inflatable kayak?

Deflate the kayak fully, clean and dry it, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Most inflatable kayaks come with a storage bag for convenience.

In conclusion, inflatable kayaks offer adventure and exploration on the water. From tandem kayaks for family fun to sleek touring kayaks for long-distance journeys, these top 10 options cater to various preferences and skill levels.

With their portability, durability, and complete sets of accessories, these inflatable kayaks are your gateway to unforgettable aquatic experiences. Get ready to paddle, explore, and create lasting memories with the best inflatable kayaks on the market.