Best Paddle Boards: Guide to the Top Five

You’ve been paddle boarding for a while, and it’s time to upgrade your beginner board. Our list of the best five paddle boards out there is here to help. Read on to find your next board.

5. NRS Beast. This paddle board is, as the name suggests, a beast. Able to fit up to eight paddlers, you and your whole crew can share the same board. Made from heavy-duty PVC and easily inflatable, this board is the perfect companion for a day at the beach.

4. Rave Sports Signature Performance SUP Board. This rigid board features a foam core with wooden stringer, full carbon fiber wrap, a displacement hull, and recessed deck pad. At 14’ and with a 280-pound weight capacity, this board is ideal for more advanced riders who maybe want to bring their pet or child with them. It also comes with an elastic cargo net for extra storage and a self-venting plug.

3. Red Paddle Co. 2020 Compact Package. This 11’ board from Red Paddle Company comes with everything you need to get out on the water, including a pump, backpack, five-piece adjustable paddle, a leash, and detachable fins. The board itself is inflatable and can be folded and rolled down to fit into the companion backpack. This is an excellent board for those who do a lot of traveling and want a convenient way to take their board with them.

2. Dertyped Stand-Up Paddle Boards. Dertyped’s inflatable paddle board lists itself as great for all skill levels, but at this price point, you may want to have some experience before diving in. Great for yoga, touring, paddling, and fishing, this board comes complete with a leash, paddle, backpack, and pump. And because it’s inflatable, it’s easy to deflate and transport, as well as store.

1. Three Brothers Wood Paddle Board. Featuring solid wood construction, this 14’ board is perfect for more advanced paddlers. With a 600-pound weight capacity, you can easily fit both you and your child or dog on top of the board– in fact, Three Brothers states that this board fits up to three people. Reinforced rails provide even more strength, while bungee tie-downs provide extra storage. Enjoy your smoothest paddle yet with this wooden board.

Considerations when finding the best paddle boards

● Solid vs inflatable. Each type has its pros and cons. Solid boards deliver higher performance and stability, while inflatables are easily portable and more suitable for yoga.

● Weight capacity. You may need to consider more than just your weight here. If you plan on paddle boarding with your little one or dog on the board with you, add their weight to yours and find a board that can accommodate a little more than that amount.

● Length. The right length for your board depends on how you want to use it. Shorter boards are great for kids or catching waves. Longer boards are faster and better for long paddles. Medium boards, in the 10’ range, are great for all purposes.

Final thought

Choosing a new stand up paddle board is no easy task, but our list is here to help. Find your new board and get paddling.