Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic activity that the whole family can enjoy. As your children grow older and more independent, they may want to have their own paddleboards to join in on the fun. Fortunately, there are a variety of inflatable paddleboards specifically designed for kids. These boards are shorter, narrower, and thinner, making them easier for kids to handle and paddle. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best kids standup paddle boards on the market for 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned paddleboarder or a beginner, this guide will help you find the perfect board for your little ones.
Why Choose a Kids Standup Paddle Board?
As kids grow, their needs and abilities change. While they may have been able to paddle on a full-size paddleboard when they were younger, it’s important to provide them with a board that is specifically designed for their size and skill level. Kids standup paddle boards are shorter, narrower, and thinner than adult boards, making them easier for kids to maneuver and paddle straight. These boards are also lighter, making them easier for kids to carry to the water and inflate. Investing in a kids standup paddle board will not only ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding experience, but it will also help them develop their skills and confidence on the water.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kids Standup Paddle Board
When choosing a kids standup paddle board, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the perfect board for your child. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
1. Size
The size of the paddle board is crucial. You want to choose a board that is proportionate to your child’s size and weight. Kids standup paddle boards are typically shorter and narrower than adult boards. The length of the board affects its stability and maneuverability, while the width determines its stability. Consider your child’s height, weight, and skill level when selecting the appropriate size.
2. Construction
The construction of the paddle board is important for its durability and performance. Most kids standup paddle boards are made from durable materials such as PVC and drop-stitch technology, which provide rigidity and stability on the water. Look for boards with reinforced rails and strong seams to ensure they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
3. Weight Capacity
Check the weight capacity of the paddle board to ensure it can support your child’s weight. It’s important to choose a board that can accommodate your child’s weight and any additional gear they may bring along, such as a water bottle or a small backpack.
4. Stability
Stability is crucial for kids standup paddle boards, especially for beginners. Look for boards with a wide and stable platform that will allow your child to feel confident and balanced on the water. Extra width and thickness can contribute to increased stability.
5. Accessories
Consider what accessories are included with the paddle board. Some boards come with paddles, leashes, and carry bags, while others may offer additional accessories such as kayak seat conversions or action mounts for attaching cameras or other gear. These accessories can enhance the overall paddleboarding experience for your child.
6. Price
Price is always a factor to consider when purchasing any product. Set a budget for your child’s paddle board and look for options within that range. Remember to consider the quality and features of the board when comparing prices.
Let’s dive into the top kids standup paddle boards for 2023.
1. Thurso Adept
The Thurso Adept is our top pick for a kid-specific standup paddle board. This board offers excellent construction and stability, making it perfect for young paddlers. The Adept features carbon fiber reinforced rails and woven drop stitch fabric, ensuring durability and rigidity on the water. It measures 9′ x 28″ x 4.7″, providing ample stability for smaller children. The length of the board allows for growth, so your child can continue to use it as they get older. The Thurso Adept is available in the US, Canada, UK, and EU, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Overall, the Thurso Adept is a reliable and high-quality option for kids who are ready to paddle on their own.
Check the best price for the Adept Youth iSUP by Thurso Surf
2. Nautical Kids
The Nautical Kids iSUP by iRocker is a shortened version of their popular Nautical budget iSUP. This board shares the same construction and features as the full-size Nautical, but in a more manageable size for kids. Measuring 10’8″ x 33″ x 6″, the Nautical Kids offers stability and buoyancy for young paddlers. The extra width of the board ensures stability, making it a great choice for beginners. The Nautical Kids has a weight capacity of 220 lbs, making it suitable for growing kids. It also comes with a variety of on-board features, such as bungee storage and extra D-rings for attaching accessories. If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable option for your child, the Nautical Kids is worth considering.
Check the best price for the Nautical Kids iSUP by iRocker
3. Sea Gods ASR
The Sea Gods ASR (Adult Supervision Required) is a smaller kids iSUP that offers excellent construction and stability. This board measures 8′ x 28″ x 4.5″ and is made with fusion PVC shell, high-density drop stitch, and heat-molded seams. These features ensure ultimate stiffness and durability, allowing your child to paddle with confidence. The Sea Gods ASR can be inflated up to 20 PSI, providing excellent stability on the water. It has a weight capacity of up to 120 lbs, making it suitable for younger kids. The ASR comes with Sea Gods’ lifetime warranty, guaranteeing its quality and durability. If you’re looking for a well-built and reliable kids iSUP, the Sea Gods ASR is a great choice.
Check the best price for the ASR by Sea Gods
4. Gili Cuda 9’/8′
The Gili Cuda is a versatile kids iSUP that comes in two different sizes: 9′ and 8′. The Cuda 9′ measures 9′ x 30″ x 4.0″, while the Cuda 8′ measures 8′ x 30″ x 4.0″. Both sizes offer stability and maneuverability for young paddlers. The Cuda is made with durable materials and shares the same construction and features as the popular Gili Air iSUP. This board is suitable for kids up to 130 lbs (Cuda 9′) and 95 lbs (Cuda 8′), making it suitable for a wide range of ages and sizes. The Gili Cuda comes with a complete kit, including a paddle, leash, backpack, and repair kit. It also offers a large feature set, allowing your child to fully enjoy their paddleboarding experience.
Check the best price for the Cuda 8′ and 9′ by Gili Sports
5. Thurso Prodigy Jr.
The Thurso Prodigy Jr. is a compact and lightweight standup paddle board designed specifically for younger children. This board measures 7.5′ x 30″ x 4″, making it easy for kids to handle and paddle. The Prodigy Jr. offers stability and maneuverability, allowing young paddlers to develop their skills with confidence. It features the same high-quality construction as Thurso’s full-size iSUPs, ensuring durability and performance on the water. The Prodigy Jr. is suitable for younger kids or as a surf SUP for tween kids. If you’re looking for a smaller and more manageable paddle board for your child, the Thurso Prodigy Jr. is a great choice.
Check the best price for the Prodigy Jr. by Thurso Surf
6. Bluefin Cruise Jr.
The Bluefin Cruise Jr. is a smaller version of the popular Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ paddle board. This compact board measures 8′ x 29″ x 5″, providing stability and maneuverability for young paddlers. The Cruise Jr. is made with high-quality materials and construction, ensuring durability and performance on the water. It comes with a complete kit, including a kayak seat and paddle conversion, allowing your child to switch between paddleboarding and kayaking. The Bluefin Cruise Jr. is a versatile and all-in-one kit that provides endless opportunities for fun and exploration on the water.
Check the best price for the Cruise Jr. by Bluefin
7. Bote Flow Aero
The Bote Flow Aero is a durable and high-performance kids iSUP that provides stability and ease of use. This board features Bote’s AeroBote construction technology, which ensures rigidity and durability on the water. The Flow Aero is made with dual-layer PVC material, making it stiffer and more durable than single-layer constructions. It comes with an extra-large center fin that helps with tracking and stability, making it easier for kids to paddle straight. The Bote Flow Aero is a great choice for kids who want to paddle with confidence and keep up with the family.
Check the best price for the Flow Aero by Bote
8. Honu Arlie
The Honu Arlie is a high-performance kids iSUP designed for young paddlers who want to take their skills to the next level. This board features an ultralight and high-performance design, providing excellent stability and surf-ability. The Arlie is made with top-quality materials and construction, ensuring durability and performance on the water. It has a raised kick-pad on the tail of the board, allowing kids to work on more advanced maneuvers and have better control when riding waves. The Honu Arlie is the perfect choice for kids who are ready to take their paddleboarding skills to new heights.
Check the best price for the Arlie by Honu
Conclusion
Choosing the right standup paddle board for your child is essential for their safety, enjoyment, and development on the water. The Thurso Adept, Nautical Kids, Sea Gods ASR, Gili Cuda, Thurso Prodigy Jr., Bluefin Cruise Jr., Bote Flow Aero, and Honu Arlie are all excellent options that offer durability, stability, and performance. Consider the size, construction, stability, accessories, and price when selecting the best paddle board for your child. With the right kids standup paddle board, your child will have a fantastic time exploring the water and creating lasting memories. So get out there, have fun, and enjoy the amazing world of paddleboarding with your little ones!