Stand up paddle boarding has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It offers a unique way to explore the water, get some exercise, and enjoy the great outdoors. If you’re looking to take your paddle boarding adventures to the next level, then a touring paddle board is the perfect option for you. In this article, we will explore the top touring inflatable stand up paddle boards of 2023, their features, and why they are worth considering for your next paddle boarding expedition.
Why Choose a Touring Paddle Board?
Touring paddle boards are specifically designed for those who want to cover more distance with less effort. These boards are ideal for longer trips, downwind adventures, and fitness paddles. The key feature that sets touring boards apart from other types of paddle boards is their sleek and streamlined design. They typically have a leaner and pointier nose, allowing them to cut through the water more efficiently and glide effortlessly from point A to point B. This design reduces drag and creates more momentum, enabling you to paddle faster and cover more ground.
Another advantage of touring paddle boards is their stability. While they may not be as versatile as all-around boards, they offer superior stability and control, especially in calm water conditions. This makes them a great choice for beginners who are looking to improve their paddling skills and build confidence on the water. Additionally, touring boards often come with gear storage options such as bungee tie-downs, allowing you to bring along essential items for your journey.
Characteristics of a Touring Paddle Board
Before diving into the top touring paddle boards of 2023, let’s take a look at the typical characteristics you should consider when choosing a touring board. These features will help you determine which board is best suited for your needs and preferences.
Length: Touring boards are typically 11 feet or longer. The longer length provides better tracking and stability, making it easier to maintain a straight course and navigate through different water conditions.
Width: Compared to all-around boards, touring boards are narrower. The narrower width improves the speed and efficiency of the board, allowing it to cut through the water with minimal resistance.
Hull Shape: Touring boards often have a displacement hull, which is characterized by a pointed nose and a V-shaped bottom. This hull design enables the board to slice through the water smoothly, minimizing drag and increasing speed. It’s important to note that some touring boards may have a planing hull, which is wider and more arched. Planing hulls are designed for riding and floating on waves, making them suitable for more adventurous paddlers.
Gear Storage: One of the key features of a touring board is its gear storage options. Look for boards that have bungee tie-downs, D-rings, or other attachment points that allow you to secure your gear, such as dry bags, coolers, or camping equipment. This will ensure that you have everything you need for your trip.
With these characteristics in mind, let’s explore the top touring inflatable stand up paddle boards of 2023.
11’0″ Beach Wing by TAHE
The 11’0″ Beach Wing by TAHE is a versatile touring inflatable paddle board that offers excellent stability and performance. With a rigid inflatable board, adjustable paddle, safety ankle leash, and backpack, this complete package has everything you need for your paddle boarding adventures.
The Beach Wing features an 11-foot length and a width that is suitable for novice riders up to 220 lbs. It is designed for flat-water cruising with family and friends, as well as longer distance touring-style adventures. The board is lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport to your favorite paddling spots.
Additional features of the Beach Wing include a deck bungee for gear storage, carry handles at the center, nose, and tail, and tie-down o-rings at the nose and tail. The “yoga-mat” style traction pad provides comfort and grip, ensuring a pleasant paddling experience.
Performer 11′ 2022 by Body Glove
The Performer 11′ 2022 by Body Glove is a high-performance touring inflatable paddle board that combines speed, stability, and durability. This board is designed for both novice and experienced paddlers who want to push their limits and explore new waters.
The Performer features a new and improved overall shape, a wood grain ClearTek™ drop-stitch construction, and laser engraved foot placement guides. It offers a stable and efficient paddling experience, allowing you to cover long distances with ease.
Not only does the Performer deliver exceptional performance, but it also gives back to the planet. Starting in 2022, Body Glove partners with One Tree Planted to plant a tree for every Performer sold, making your purchase a contribution to the environment.
11’6″ Journey by Grey Duck
The 11’6″ Journey by Grey Duck is a lightweight and efficient touring paddle board that is perfect for covering long distances on the water. This board offers great glide and increased speed, making it a favorite among paddlers who want to explore new waters and challenge themselves.
The Journey features an EPS foam core with vacuum bagged bamboo and epoxy construction, ensuring durability and performance. It comes with a 10-inch center fin, a GORE no maintenance vent, and neoprene grab handles for easy carrying.
With its six-point tie-down system on the nose and four-point tie-down on the tail, the Journey provides ample gear storage options for all your essentials. It is suitable for average-sized adults and offers excellent stability and control on the water.
Tao Tour Air-Glide Inflatable 11’0″ x 32″ by SIC Maui
The Tao Tour Air-Glide Inflatable 11’0″ x 32″ by SIC Maui is a versatile and durable touring paddle board that is suitable for various water activities. Whether you want to go on a family adventure, surf small to mid-sized waves, or practice SUP yoga, this board has got you covered.
This board is made from the finest Drop Stitch Construction (DSC) and lightweight and durable Support Stringer Technology (SST). It offers a light, stiff, and reliable paddling experience. The Tao Tour Air-Glide comes packaged with a three-piece adjustable paddle, making it ready to use straight out of the box.
Additional features of the Tao Tour Air-Glide include a tethering and leash D-rings on the nose and tail, a bungee tie-down, and a dual-action pump for easy inflation. The board is designed for average-sized adults and provides stability and control on the water.
NRS Escape 12’6″ Inflatable SUP Board
The NRS Escape 12’6″ Inflatable SUP Board is designed for those who want to go fast and far on their paddle board adventures. This board offers efficiency and carrying capacity, making it ideal for after-work attainment paddles and overnight tours.
The Escape features heavy-duty PVC drop-stitch construction with double sidewalls, ensuring durability and rigidity. It inflates to 20 psi, providing a sturdy and stable platform for your paddling endeavors. The board comes with a 6-inch wide stiffening band and a removable, interchangeable nylon-reinforced plastic fin for enhanced tracking and performance.
With its six D-rings on the nose and four D-rings on the tail, the Escape offers ample attachment points for securing your gear. It also features top-quality Leafield D7 inflation/deflation valve and a pressure relief valve to prevent accidental over-inflation.
Conclusion
Touring paddle boards are the perfect choice for those who want to explore, adventure, and cover more distance on the water. The top touring inflatable stand up paddle boards of 2023 offer a range of features and benefits, ensuring a thrilling and enjoyable paddling experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s a touring board out there that suits your needs and preferences.
Remember to consider the length, width, hull shape, and gear storage options when choosing a touring paddle board. Each board mentioned in this article has unique characteristics and advantages, so take the time to explore their features and determine which one is the best fit for you.
Investing in a high-quality touring paddle board will open up a whole new world of paddle boarding adventures. So gear up, hit the water, and enjoy the thrill of touring on an inflatable stand up paddle board.
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