Looking for a fun activity to add to your summer vacation? Why not try stand up paddling (SUP) or simply inflatable paddling? This activity involves paddling while standing on a floating, non-rigid board. It costs less than traditional fiberglass boards, is easier to transport and just as sturdy. Read our guide to learn more.
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Our selection
"This inflatable paddle was designed for long rides. We particularly like it for its speed. Moreover, it inflates in less than 6 minutes and can…"
"The FBSport SUP-Board inflatable paddle has excellent buoyancy, with a lightweight, yet rugged construction. It can be easily carried in a backpack."
"The ZRAY Fury 10′ has a low profile board, but it performs just as well as the other boards from the brand. Very fast, this…"
"The Alpidex iSup is suitable for beginners as well as advanced riders. The board is easy to use, measures 320 x 76 x 15 cm…"
This inflatable paddle was designed for long rides. We particularly like it for its speed. Moreover, it inflates in less than 6 minutes and can support up to 150 kg.
See the priceThe ECD Germany Makani offers an unparalleled experience on the water. When you buy this inflatable paddle, you get a complete package with adjustable aluminum paddle, air pump, repair kit, safety line and carrying bag. The board has a 10 cm thick, double-walled landing point core made of PVC/EVA, so it can withstand high loads (150 kg) while remaining fast on the water.
Thanks to the 308 cm length of this inflatable paddle, an adult and a child can easily fit on it. It is suitable for all levels of practice. In addition, the 3 built-in fins offer more directional stability. As for the anti-slip traction pad, it guarantees a secure hold on the board.
The FBSport SUP-Board inflatable paddle has excellent buoyancy, with a lightweight, yet rugged construction. It can be easily carried in a backpack.
See priceThis inflatable paddle is great on its own, but it comes with a range of practical accessories, including a carry bag. The 304 cm board is made from military-grade material used in marine commando dinghies, among other things. No matter how hard you slam it against rocks or oyster beds, it won't tear!
The non-slip upper surface will please all stand up paddle enthusiasts. Indeed, it protects from falls and slips. The FBSport SUP-Board is also suitable for fishing, snorkeling or just learning to paddle. The triple bottom panel fins help improve overall speed and maneuverability, which can help navigate in a range of weather conditions.
The ZRAY Fury 10′ has a low profile board, but it performs just as well as the other boards from the brand. Very fast, this red paddle will not go unnoticed.
See the priceIf you're looking for an inflatable paddle that's easy to handle and performs well, the ZRAY Fury 10′ should appeal to you. It was developed to the highest standards, using durable materials that enhance performance on the water. For example, we note the presence of the Drop Stitch double fused layer coating, which gives the board great lightness and allows it to gain strength.
This inflatable paddle does not exceed 10 kg despite its 305 cm length. It is equipped with 6 stainless steel D-rings capable of supporting paddling for several days and over a very long distance. Finally, this inflatable paddle comes with all the necessary accessories for its use, its handling on the water and its maintenance.
The Alpidex iSup is suitable for beginners as well as advanced riders. The board is easy to use, measures 320 x 76 x 15 cm and can support a maximum weight of 140 kg.
See priceAlpidex offers us this versatile inflatable paddle. It will suit many different positions and activities: standing, sitting, yoga and pilates training, in calm waters or on light waves, relaxing while paddling or kayaking. In all, it has three fins that ensure the stability of the board. And the large center fin is removable.
Thanks to the Drop Sitch coating, the SUP has the best air pressure/firmness ratio of this comparison! This 3-layer edge construction provides exceptional hardness and durability to this inflatable paddle. The contoured, non-slip platform offers a secure standing position and is made of comfortable EVA. And thanks to the intermediate shaft, the aluminum and plastic paddle can quickly transform into a kayak paddle.
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The best inflatable paddle in 2021
The best entry-level inflatable paddle
The best high-end inflatable paddle
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | ALTERNATIVE | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
7/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
ECD Germany Makani
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FBSport SUP-Board
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ZRAY Fury 10
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Alpidex iSup
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This inflatable paddle was designed for long rides. We particularly like it for its speed. Moreover, it inflates in less than 6 minutes and can support up to 150 kg.
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The FBSport SUP-Board inflatable paddle has excellent buoyancy, with a lightweight, yet rugged construction. It can be easily carried in a backpack.
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The ZRAY Fury 10′ has a low profile board, but it performs just as well as the other boards from the brand. Very fast, this red paddle will not go unnoticed.
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The Alpidex iSup is suitable for beginners as well as advanced riders. The board is easy to use, measures 320 x 76 x 15 cm and can support a maximum weight of 140 kg.
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Product sold as a complete kit
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Easy to use
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Military-grade coating
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Sturdy and reliable
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Takes less than 6 min to inflate
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UV and abrasion resistant
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Fast and light
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Stable and versatile
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Robust, reliable and lightweight
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4mm EVA foam padding
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Fused double-layer construction
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Presence of 2 layers of PVC reinforced rail
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First of all, it is essential to know in advance the type of activity you want to undertake with the inflatable paddle. In fact, this first criterion determines the type of inflatable paddle that will suit you. Most users use inflatable paddles for hiking and walking in fresh water, river or sea. Apart from the activities mentioned above, one can also use the paddle for competitions, surfing, racing, fitness or yoga sessions or even fishing.
An inflatable paddle can have a single or double skin depending on its design. Most inflatable paddles are designed with PVC, and a strong part to reinforce the structure made of coated polyester threads. The single skin type of structure is composed of a layer of PVC and a layer of coated polyester threads. While for the double skin structure, two layers of PVC are present and a reinforcement layer. Double skin inflatable paddles are obviously stronger, more resistant and rigid, but are also heavier. They require more effort to carry and their prices are quite high.
The length affects the speed and maneuverability of an inflatable paddle. A short board is more maneuverable, but loses speed. While a longer version will be less maneuverable, but will gain speed. A long inflatable paddle is therefore suitable for walking and racing. Surfing enthusiasts, for example, will find their accounts with a shorter model.
If your paddle board is difficult to inflate, you probably have the wrong pump. To avoid wasting time, use an electric pump instead of a manual pump.
The
width also impacts the stability and speed of an inflatable paddle. A model with a narrow width is able to move quickly, but loses stability. On the contrary, a wider model offers greater stability, but loses speed. A width of 60 to 70 cm is ideal for racing enthusiasts. However, an inflatable paddle with a width of 75 to 81 cm is recommended for novices, or for those who prefer to walk around.
Two thicknesses of inflatable paddle are available: 4 or 6 Po. This criterion also factors into the performance and maneuverability of the board.
Accessories are important elements when buying an inflatable paddle. Many models come with several accessories, such as air pumps, carrying bag, straps, paddle or even repair kit, etc. Currently, manufacturers accompany the boards with more or less accessories depending on the model. This is very advantageous for buyers, otherwise they will be obliged to buy them separately by allocating another budget.
You should not neglect the space requirement. An inflatable paddle differs from a rigid paddle by its ability to deflate and fold, thus requiring less space when transporting. It is also less heavy. This criterion comes into play a lot when traveling long distances, between the car and the place to use the inflatable paddle. You can carry a lot more in the car, thanks to a less cumbersome model.
Keep in mind that the board is inflatable and durable, but you should not drag it over rough or porous terrain, such as sand, asphalt, etc. The best way to move your board is to pick it up until you are in the water. This will prevent scratches and punctures. This type of damage affects the performance of the board.
Another good way to maintain your inflatable paddle is to keep it out of the sun. Leaving it exposed to the sun's rays will heat up the board, which can cause it to shatter or break depending on how long it is exposed. Any plastic product will be damaged by the sun, and the same is true with inflatable paddleboards.
As with sun exposure, it is also not practical to leave it in places that allow too much heat such as vans, closed cars or containers under the sun that heat up the interior. It is therefore preferable to leave it in a place with moderate temperature.
This is a short and wide board. This length allows you to handle the board easily, while the width allows you to catch a wave with ease. In fact, the bottom curve of the board from nose to tail and the fins all work together to create a high performance board.
The rails or contour of the board extend from the tip to the tail. They play an important role in the performance of the board. Since inflatable boards have a higher air volume, the rails tend to be thicker, and a thicker rail will not surf or turn as well as a lower volume board.
So a longer board with longer rail lines will slide better and be easier to ride, especially for a bigger rider. In short, rails are important in the direction of the surf, so if you want to surf easily in the waves, go for a lower volume board with rails that can help with steering.
Racing is first and foremost a speed discipline in stand up paddling. The goal is to be able to go as fast as possible with the paddle. To do this, you need a paddle that allows you to reach a maximum speed. The right paddle for the race is therefore a longer and narrower paddle. This means that it would be uncomfortable for beginners and that only professionals can handle them well.
Indeed, this kind of board does not favor stability or balance, which is why it is used by people who already have some experience. As the inflatable race paddle requires a certain ease, it is relevant to use it on calm and flat water. This is also why some people call this paddle, travel paddle.
First of all, this is an inflatable touring paddle. The width of the board is what really distinguishes a touring SUP from a racing board, although there is no fixed line between the two. A board 28 inches or less in width will normally be used as a race board.
Similarly, a board 30 inches wide or wider will tend to fall into touring board territory. 32 inches wide can be a great place for an inflatable touring board with plenty of glide but enough stability to paddle without worry and enough width for other fitness activities like stretching and yoga.
For flat water hiking and fitness in calm conditions, a single center fin of at least 7 to 9 inches in height will be the simplest configuration and improve paddling speed.
A poorly inflated board will be soft. Thus, it will deform abnormally and lose its shape once you get on your SUP. Instead of standing on a stand up paddle board, you will be standing on a soft paddle. In such a condition, it's hard to keep your balance!
Inflatable paddles feature PVC exteriors with a drop point construction that creates an air core. They come with a pump to inflate the board and a storage bag when not in use. A quality inflatable SUP is designed to be inflated to 5-6 kg per square inch and should be very rigid when fully inflated.
If you live in a small house, condo or apartment, you may not have room for a large, solid board. Inflatable SUPs are compact when deflated and can easily be stored in small spaces, such as a closet or car trunk.
If you're going on a road trip or taking a plane, you can bring your inflatable SUP and paddle once you arrive at your destination. Packed in its own storage bag, an inflatable can be checked onto a plane or stored on a train, bus or car. Most storage bags have backpack straps for easy transport.
Solid boards offer the best performance on the water. They travel faster, easier and with less effort. If paddling fast and far is your priority, a solid SUP is for you. Solid SUPs come in a wider variety of sizes and finely tuned shapes, so you're more likely to find one that fits you perfectly. Plus, a solid board is a little stiffer, especially when you're riding the waves.
They also tend to roll lower in the water, which can also create a more stable feel. On the other hand, solid paddles can take up a lot of space, so they need plenty of room for storage and transportation.
For this, both options are perfect. For those who are into extreme sports like surfing, they already know their needs and it will be easy for them to determine their choice. On the other hand, beginners will still be able to learn how to keep your balance and find your comfort, so it's up to you to determine what you want according to your needs, because both options are made for sea sports.
A sport suitable for everyone
Inflatable paddling is suitable for all types of people. It is beneficial to your health. It can be practiced alone or with others. 30 minutes is enough for a beginner to learn the basics of inflatable paddling and master it.
A complete sport
The positions and physical exercises involved in inflatable paddling make it a complete sport. You can achieve several positions during the handling and you have the embarrassment of choice on the conditions of water which are appropriate to you (calm or agitated).
The material is ergonomic
Thanks to its ease of transport, the inflatable paddle can be taken to remote and exciting places, such as mountain tops, lakes, rivers or the sea.
An escape into nature
For those who love nature and want to get away from it all, the inflatable paddle is the ideal solution. This equipment is conditioned for all seasons. Even in winter, you can put on a wetsuit and indulge in your favourite activity.
To fight stress
The inflatable paddle helps you to escape from the monotonous life and stress. It gives your body and mind a sense of well-being and freedom.
In our opinion, the best brands of inflatable paddles in 2022 are :
Aqua Marina is well known in the stand up paddle world for its range of inflatable SUPs which includes 18 boards. And a range of SUP paddles and accessories, canoes, kayaks, sport boats, fishing boats, etc. The brand is quite well known in the field of water sports.
Aztron is a brand run by enthusiasts, whose great love has always been water sports. The brand aims to offer each pilot the highest level of innovation. This brand is one of the best.
Founded in 2009, ZRAY is committed to building the top water sports brand. After 10 years of development, it has become a professional brand and has a place in the industry.
Gymrex is a brand of the company Expondo which is based in Europe. Founded in 2007, the company started with two founders and a garage. Currently, it presents several brands, including Gymrex, which specializes in sports equipment such as inflatable paddle, box accessories, weight machines, etc.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Clean your inflatable paddle
After using the inflatable paddle and returning home, it is advisable to clean the inflatable paddle. To do this, wash it with soapy water to remove particles and waste.
Avoid exposing your paddle to the sun
Avoid
leaving the inflatable paddle in the sun for hours as the very hot temperature will only increase the pressure within it. If you are not using it, it is advisable to put it out of the sun or let it deflate.
Do not use a pneumatic compressor
Do
not use air compressors to inflate inflatable paddles. They can damage them irreversibly. Use small pumps instead.
Don't drag your paddles
The
handles on the inflatable paddle are for carrying it. Avoid dragging it behind you as this can damage or even puncture it.
Keep it dry
To
prevent mold from forming on the inflatable paddle, always remember to let it dry after the session or after cleaning it
.
The best inflatable paddle depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.
As far as the basic movements are concerned, paddling is fairly simple to learn. Even novices will be able to travel with ease on a calm surface, but to glide between waves and over rough water, you will need repeated practice. To master it, you are advised to take lessons. In the end, you will be able to master it completely and practice it in thrilling conditions.
The ideal pressure for an inflatable paddle is 15 to 18 PSI maximum. If the pressure is below 15 PSI, your paddle will not be rigid enough. It takes less than 5 minutes to fully inflate your inflatable paddle. Don't forget that exposing your inflatable paddle to the sun at high temperatures can damage it irreversibly. Remember to put it under cover when you are not using it or deflate it.
The best way to know the ideal paddle size is to stand up, raise your arms, and measure the length between your foot and wrist. This length is the ideal size for you.
Unfold it from time to time and inflate your inflatable paddle if you are not using it for a long time. These actions will replace the air inside, even when folded, and will cause new folds later.
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