Make Memories Last On The Best Paddleboards

Best Paddleboards Buying Guide

What Are Paddleboards?

Paddleboards are flat boards designed for use on water surfaces like rivers, lakes, and oceans. Paddleboards are the primary instrument needed for paddleboarding. Paddleboarding is a water-based sport/recreation that involves participants finding their way through water performing various actions like surfing, yoga, fishing, or racing. Oftentimes, paddleboards are used in a standing position hence the name ‘Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP).’

What Are the Types of Paddleboards?

There are two types of paddleboards. The classification is done based on the material used to make the paddleboard.

Solid paddleboard

Solid paddleboards are made from solid materials like Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foams coated with epoxy and fiberglass to give it a solid outlook. Solid paddleboards are also made of plastic and sometimes lightweight wood. Solid paddleboards are preferred for their relative stability and ease of use.

Inflatable paddleboards

Inflatable paddleboards are made with PVC exteriors. The drop-stitch construction makes it inflatable and deflatable. When inflated, inflatable paddleboards take on a strong, rigid form that mirrors solid paddleboards. They come with pumps for inflating the paddleboard and bags to store the deflated board after use. Inflatable paddleboards are preferred for their ease of storage and transport.

Tips for Using a Paddleboard

If you are using a paddleboard for the first time, it is ideal that you use it in shallow water bodies where you can easily navigate and find your way to the shore. 

What Do I Need to Consider Before Buying a Paddleboard?

There are various factors to consider before buying a paddleboard. These factors vary from person to person and are sometimes interwoven.

Length of the paddleboard

The paddleboard’s length is a major determinant of how well you will be able to handle the paddleboard. There are short, medium, and long lengths for paddleboards. Paddleboards with short lengths are ideal for use by kids and for surfing. Medium-length paddleboards are good for yoga and general use. Long-length paddleboards are good over long distances.

Width of the paddleboard

The paddleboard’s width affects stability and overall handling. The wider a paddleboard is, the more stable it is to handle. Wider boards also give paddlers extra storage space to carry extra things along. Also, wider boards are better for yoga paddling as it affords the yogi better stability and more space to practice different poses.

However, experienced paddlers may prefer narrow paddleboards because of the dynamism it brings.

Weight capacity

The paddleboard’s weight capacity refers to the maximum weight the paddleboard can hold afloat on water. This includes the weight of extras like coolers and pets. Obviously, a paddleboard with a higher weight capacity serves the user better. Though they tend to cost more than paddleboards with a lower weight capacity.

Fins

Fins are attached under a paddleboard to provide it with better stability and tracking. Fins take different configurations. Some paddleboards feature only one fin, some feature three fins, and some the 2+1 fin. The 2+1 fin configuration includes two permanently fixed fins and a third fin that is removable. This configuration is common with inflatable paddleboards and gives users more control of the dynamics of the paddleboard’s movement.

Attachments and extras

Another factor to consider before buying a paddleboard is the board’s space for attachments and extras. This factor is important for users that want their paddleboard to serve a dual purpose. Space for attachments like bungee straps could come in handy when attaching kayak seats to the board. They can also be used to firmly secure clothes and coolers. Also, some paddleboards have special mounts to attach cameras to seamlessly take pictures while on water.

How Much do Paddleboards Cost?

The prices of paddleboards vary due to various reasons like type, length, and thickness. You can find cheap inflatable paddleboards at $200 and high-end epoxy boards at over $1500. You can get a balance for cost and efficiency with paddleboards within the price range of $300 and $800.

Final Thoughts on Paddleboards

Paddleboards are great tools for recreation and exercise that bring you closer to nature. Whether on a family or personal vacation, you can accomplish a lot of fun activities with them. 

Since paddleboards are only used inside water,  users should have basic swimming ability in case of any eventuality. They usually come with safety leashes that are meant to be attached to the board and the user’s ankle. Users should endeavor to have the leash on at all times. Also, having a personal flotation device when paddling is highly recommended.