Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It offers a fun and versatile way to explore the water, whether it’s a calm lake, a winding river, or a serene ocean. Inflatable SUPs, in particular, have become a go-to choice for paddlers of all levels due to their portability, durability, and ease of use.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at six amazing flatwater SUPs that are perfect for cruising on calm waters. From stability and glide performance to maneuverability and construction quality, we’ll cover all the essential aspects to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and explore the top picks for your next SUP adventure!
Bote Breeze Aero: The Affordable All-Arounder
The Bote Breeze Aero is a standout choice for those seeking an all-around inflatable SUP board without breaking the bank. It offers a perfect combination of high-quality materials, lightweight design, and impressive performance. With its durable construction and easy-to-transport features, this board is a favorite among paddlers of all skill levels.
The Breeze Aero boasts excellent stability, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It glides smoothly on both flat water and choppy conditions, thanks to its gradually tapered nose and longer center fin. The board’s maneuverability is also commendable, allowing for easy turns and navigation.
One of the standout features of the Breeze Aero is its affordability. Despite its high-performance capabilities, this board comes at a reasonable price point. It’s a lightweight option, weighing only 20 pounds when fully inflated, and can support up to 250 pounds. The included carrying bag is well-designed and padded for comfortable transport.
FunWater 11: Best Bang for the Buck
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and performance, the FunWater 11 is an excellent choice. This board offers solid all-around performance and incredible value for its price. With its sleek design, lightweight construction, and bonus accessories, it’s hard to beat the FunWater 11 in terms of affordability.
The FunWater 11 impresses with its stability, making it suitable for beginners and casual paddlers. While it may not be as stable as some higher-end boards, it still offers a decent level of stability for most flatwater conditions. Its glide performance is respectable, providing straight tracking and good speed.
Weighing in at just under 19 pounds, the FunWater 11 is one of the lightest boards in its class. It comes with a simple yet effective backpack, an adjustable three-piece paddle, and bonus accessories like an ankle leash and a dry bag. These added features enhance the overall value of the board and make it a great choice for budget-conscious paddlers.
Bluefin Cruise Carbon: Most Like a Solid Board
If you’re seeking a high-performance inflatable SUP that closely mimics the feel of a solid board, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon is a top contender. With its heavy-duty carbon-reinforced construction and impressive all-around performance, this board offers the best of both worlds. It’s a solid choice for experienced paddlers looking for rigidity, speed, and stability.
The Cruise Carbon excels in stability, making it suitable for a wide range of paddlers. Its rigid and stable design allows for fast gliding and excellent tracking. The board comes with a kayak seat attachment and a convertible paddle, adding versatility to your paddling experience. The included high-capacity pump ensures quick and efficient inflation.
While the Cruise Carbon offers exceptional performance, it is heavier and bulkier compared to other inflatable SUPs. The additional features, such as the kayak seat and the convertible paddle, make it a bit challenging to fit everything into the included carry bag. However, if you’re willing to invest in a high-end board that feels like a solid SUP, the Cruise Carbon is a top choice.
Red Paddle Co Voyager+ MSL: Best for Touring
For those who crave long-distance paddling and efficient glide performance, the Red Paddle Co Voyager+ MSL is the ultimate touring board. Designed for advanced users, this board offers top-tier construction, high-quality materials, and excellent overall performance. It’s a perfect option for covering more significant distances and exploring different water conditions.
The Voyager+ MSL stands out with its exceptional glide performance. Its sleek profile and long, narrow shape allow for efficient paddling and high speeds. The board’s stability, though not as high as some other models, is decent for its thin width. It glides well on glassy days and handles windier or choppier conditions with ease.
Constructed with high-quality materials and featuring an RSS stiffening system, the Voyager+ MSL offers rigidity and durability. The included dual-chamber pump ensures quick and easy inflation, while the cargo system on the front and rear provides ample storage space for your gear. Keep in mind that this board is optimized for advanced users and may not be the best all-around option for beginners or families.
Isle Switch: Best Hybrid Board
If you’re looking for a versatile inflatable SUP that can be used for both standing and sitting, the Isle Switch is the perfect hybrid board. With its lightweight design, spacious carrying bag, and inflatable seat and footrest, this board offers a comfortable and convenient paddling experience. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy both standing and kayaking on the water.
The Isle Switch is a long and wide board, providing stability and ease of use for paddlers of all levels. It weighs just 19 pounds, making it one of the lightest boards in its class. The inflatable kayak seat and footrest add comfort and versatility, allowing you to switch between standing and sitting positions effortlessly.
The board’s unique features, such as the 20 pairs of link loops and additional straps, make it stand out from other hybrids. It comes with a four-piece paddle set, a deflated seat, a footrest, and a seat back, all of which can be stored in the cargo nets. The Isle Switch offers a stable and enjoyable paddling experience for those who want to switch things up.
Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132: Best for Bringing All the Extras
If you’re someone who likes to bring along extra gear or a furry friend on your paddling adventures, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 is the perfect companion. With its spacious carrying bag and ample cargo space, this board allows you to pack all your essentials and more. It’s a great choice for those who love to explore and bring along everything they need.
The Waterwalker 132 is designed with durability and performance in mind. It features a large carrying bag that can easily fit all your accessories, as well as additional gear or clothing. The board itself weighs only 23.7 pounds and offers a stable and sturdy platform for paddling. It can support up to 330 pounds, making it suitable for various paddler sizes and gear loads.
Despite its size and weight capacity, the Waterwalker 132 is relatively lightweight and easy to transport once inflated. It comes with a dual-chamber, high-capacity pump that makes inflation a breeze. The board’s construction quality is top-notch, ensuring durability and longevity. With its generous cargo space and attachment rings, the Waterwalker 132 is the perfect choice for those who like to bring all the extras on their paddling adventures.
Conclusion
Inflatable SUPs have revolutionized the world of paddleboarding, offering portability, durability, and versatility. The six amazing flatwater SUPs featured in this guide provide a range of options for paddlers of all levels. From the affordable all-around performance of the Bote Breeze Aero to the high-end glide performance of the Red Paddle Co Voyager+ MSL, there’s a board to suit every preference and budget.
Whether you’re cruising on calm lakes, exploring winding rivers, or enjoying serene ocean waters, these flatwater SUPs deliver exceptional stability, glide performance, maneuverability, and ease of use. Each board has its unique features and advantages, so consider your specific needs and preferences when making your decision.
With the right inflatable SUP, you’ll have endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the beauty of the water. So grab your paddle, inflate your board, and embark on your next exciting SUP adventure!
