Stand up paddle boarding has taken the world of water sports by storm, offering a fun and exciting way to enjoy the waves.
For those who love surfing, stand up paddle boards can provide a new challenge and a different perspective on the ocean.
Combining the thrill of riding a wave with the full body exercise of stand up paddle boarding, these boards are designed specifically to perform in surf conditions.
When it comes to stand up paddle boards for surfing, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase.
- The most important aspects include size, shape, construction, and maneuverability. A good board for surfing should be relatively short and wide to provide stability and allow for quick turns on the waves.
- Additionally, the construction and materials used play a crucial role in the board’s durability, performance, and weight.
- For aspiring wave riders, it’s also vital to find a board suited to your skill level as well as the type of waves you’ll be encountering.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a stable and forgiving platform, or an experienced surfer who needs advanced maneuverability and performance, there is a stand up paddle board out there for you.
To help you make the best choice, we have researched and tested various stand up paddle boards in different surf conditions, focusing on their performance, stability, and overall user satisfaction.
Join us now in discovering the top stand up paddle boards for surfing that meet both casual and expert needs.
Best Stand Up Paddle Boards for Surfing
We’ve compiled a list of the top stand up paddle boards specifically designed for surfing enthusiasts.
Browse through our selections to find the perfect fit for your next wave-catching adventure.
1. Shridinlay Inflatable SUP
The Shridinlay Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a versatile and user-friendly option for all skill levels looking to enjoy surfing and paddling experiences.
Pros
- Wide and stable design, perfect for beginners
- Easy to fold and store, comes with a backpack
- High-quality construction with EVA and drop-stitch materials
Cons
- Manual hand pump could be improved
- Not ideal for individuals over 140 lbs
- Some users reported missing accessories in the package
From our experience, the Shridinlay Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board impressed us with its stability and ease of use, especially for beginners. Its 30” width provides excellent balance, and the high-quality EVA on top offers good grip, reducing the risk of slipping.
We found the portability and convenience of this inflatable SUP to be one of its selling points. It’s easy to fold and pack away in the provided backpack, making it perfect for those who want to take their paddleboard on trips or store it in small spaces. The board is suitable for various activities such as paddling, cruising, fishing, and yoga, making it an all-rounder for users of any expertise.
One of the minor drawbacks we experienced was the manual hand pump, which could be time-consuming and labor-intensive. However, once inflated, the board felt sturdy and held up to normal paddleboarding activities. We do recommend this SUP for individuals under 140 lbs, as it tends to be less stable for heavier users.
The complete package comes with everything needed for a day out on the water, including a collapsible aluminum paddle, safety leash, repair kit, and an upgraded backpack. While some users reported missing accessories, we did not encounter this issue, and the overall experience was enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Shridinlay Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a reliable and budget-friendly option for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike, offering stability, convenience, and versatility in various water activities.
2. DAMA 11′ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
The DAMA 11′ inflatable stand up paddle board offers a versatile and user-friendly experience, perfect for individuals looking to enjoy the water, whether they’re beginners or more experienced paddlers.
Pros
- Sport camera mount for recording your adventures
- Extra steel D rings for convenience and multitasking
- High-quality drop stitch material for durability
Cons
- Inflation and deflation times can be time-consuming
- Glue not included in the repairing kit
- Hard fin may not suit everyone’s preferences
The DAMA 11′ inflatable stand up paddle board caught our attention with its unique sport camera mount, allowing us to easily capture our experiences on the water. Sharing moments with friends has never been easier, and we appreciate this exclusive feature on this paddle board.
In addition, we took note of the extra steel D rings on the board. They provided added convenience for carrying the board and even allowed us to connect our paddle board with our friends’, enhancing the enjoyment of our water adventures. The high-quality drop stitch material used in the construction of this inflatable paddle board is both lightweight and durable, contributing to its overall performance on the water.
However, we did find that the inflation and deflation times were a bit longer than expected, which might not suit busy individuals who want to utilize their time on the water more efficiently. Furthermore, the repairing kit came without glue, so it’s essential to have some on hand for any potential repairs. Also, the hard fin may not be preferable for everyone, depending on personal taste and preferences.
All in all, the DAMA 11′ inflatable stand up paddle board is an excellent choice for those who want to have a fun, user-friendly experience on the water. Its unique features and durable construction make it suitable for various water activities, ranging from leisurely paddling to more intense surfing action.
3. FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board
The FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board is a great choice for all skill levels, providing a lightweight and versatile paddling experience.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight military-grade double wall PVC
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Ergonomic handle design and sensitive barometer
Cons
- May not be ideal for heavy surf conditions
- Some users may prefer a wider board for extra stability
- Limited warranty for accessories
This 11’x33”x6” inflatable stand up paddle board from FunWater is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy water sports, explore, or go on an adventure.
Made from a new ultra-light military-grade double wall PVC, the board is both wear-resistant and has a long service life. Weighing only 18.5 pounds, it is 35% lighter than similar sized products, making it easy to transport and handle in the water.
The FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board can accommodate up to 330 pounds and is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.
The unique ergonomic handle design ensures a comfortable grip while paddling, and the sensitive barometer accurately reads the sup inflation pressure value (12-15psi) for optimal performance. In addition, the multifunctional elastic string secures any objects placed on the board, and the ultra-large backpack enables you to carry the paddle board with ease.
Included in the package are the inflatable paddle board, adjustable sup paddle, three fins, sup pump, backpack, dry bag, leash, and a waterproof phone bag. The FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board offers a 30-day no-hassle return service, a 60-day warranty for the board, and a 1-year warranty for accessories, ensuring a worry-free purchase experience.
While this board may not be ideal for heavy surf conditions, and some users may prefer a wider board for extra stability, its lightweight construction, ergonomic design, and suitability for all skill levels make the FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board a top choice for those looking to purchase a stand-up paddle board for surfing.
4. ADVENOR Paddle Board 11’x33 x6
An excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, well-balanced paddleboard that caters to all skill levels and various water activities.
Pros
- Extra wide and longer design for better balance
- Ultra-light and easy to carry
- Fast inflation with double-action hand pump
Cons
- Backpack lacks wheels
- Takes some effort to inflate
- Some cosmetic issues reported
We recently took the ADVENOR Paddle Board out for a spin, and we were thrilled with its performance. The extra-wide and longer design provided exceptional stability, letting us ride the waves confidently. Plus, the robust non-slip EVA deck pad withstood the high pressure, giving us more confidence in our surfing abilities.
The ultra-light design of this paddle board made it extremely easy for us to carry it from our car to the water. The three detachable bottom fins improved the overall speed and handling, making this inflatable stand-up paddleboard suitable for a variety of water activities – from exploring and touring to fishing and yoga. We also appreciated that it could be used in oceans, freshwater lakes, and rivers.
The double-action hand pump provided with the paddleboard allows for quick inflation and deflation. The aluminum paddle is height-adjustable (65-82 inches), making it suitable for most people.
The package also includes essential SUP accessories such as an adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, waterproof bag, upgraded backpack, three removable fins, and a repair kit.
However, we did find that the backpack could benefit from having wheels, as carrying the paddleboard long distances could get tiring. Also, inflating the paddleboard did take some effort, and we encountered a few cosmetic issues – although, these did not impact the board’s performance in any way.
In conclusion, the ADVENOR Paddle Board offers fantastic value with its excellent balance, sturdy construction, and versatile design that caters to various skill levels and water activities. Just be aware that inflating the board might take some effort, and the backpack could use some improvements.
5. FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP
The FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP is a fantastic choice for paddlers of all skill levels due to its lightweight construction, durability, and stability.
Pros
- Ultra-light construction makes it easy to transport
- Highly durable with additional PVC layer on board rails
- Excellent balance due to 33″ width and 3 removable fins
Cons
- High-pressure pump’s PSI gauge may not always work
- Inflation can be a workout
- Waterproof phone bag may be too small for some devices
Our first time using the FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP gave us a remarkable experience. The 17.6 lbs weight made it quite convenient to carry the board around effortlessly.
Once on the water, we found the board to be stable and suitable for different skills and weather conditions. The ultra-durable construction with an added PVC layer on the board rails ensured that the board can take a beating, and we felt confident to paddle among rocks and debris.
We noticed that the 33” board width and the three removable fins significantly improved the balance of the board, making it perfect for new paddlers. Furthermore, the package includes an adjustable aluminum paddle, a high-pressure pump, a travel backpack, a coil leash, a waterproof bag, and three removable fins – ensuring we had everything we needed for our adventure.
However, we did experience a few shortcomings. Inflating the board can take some effort, so prepare for a bit of a workout. Additionally, we found that the waterproof phone bag might be too small for some of the larger modern phones. Lastly, the PSI gauge on the pump might not always work, so be cautious and avoid overinflating.
Overall, despite some minor hiccups, we believe the FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP is an excellent product for anyone looking to purchase a stand-up paddleboard for surfing. The combination of durability, light weight, and stability make for an enjoyable experience on the water.
Buying Guide
When searching for the perfect stand up paddle board for surfing, several factors should be considered. In this buying guide, we will walk you through the essential things to keep in mind when making your decision.
1. Type of Board
The first thing to think about is the specific type of stand up paddle board that best suits your needs. There are different shapes and sizes available, with each suited to different styles of surfing.
Some common types include:
- All-Around: These boards are versatile and can be used in various conditions, making them great for beginners.
- Surf: Surf-specific paddle boards are designed for wave-riding performance and have more curve in their shape.
Find out are inflatable boards any good.
2. Size and Volume
When choosing the ideal size, consider both the length and volume of the board.
The length will impact the maneuverability, while the volume affects stability and support. Generally, the taller or heavier you are, the higher volume you will need.
You can use the following table as a guide:
| Rider Weight (lbs) | Board Volume (liters) |
|---|---|
| Under 140 | 135 – 165 |
| 140 – 200 | 160 – 199 |
| Over 200 | 200+ |
3. Construction and Materials
The durability and performance of your stand-up paddleboard will be greatly impacted by the materials used in its construction.
Higher-quality boards will be built with strong and lightweight materials, such as:
- EPS Foam Core: Expanded polystyrene foam is commonly used in paddle boards, as it is lightweight and provides excellent buoyancy.
- Epoxy Resin: This helps create strong and durable boards that can withstand dings and scrapes.
4. Extras and Accessories
Lastly, consider what extras come with the board and whether they suit your needs.
For example, some boards come with removable fins which can be easily replaced or upgraded. Additionally, look for features such as carry handles, bungee storage, and mounting points for GoPro cameras.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose a surf SUP?
When choosing a surf SUP, consider factors such as board size, shape, and construction. Size is crucial as it affects stability, maneuverability, and performance. For beginners, we recommend a larger, wider board for enhanced stability. For experienced riders, a shorter board with a narrow tail offers sharper turns and acceleration. Additionally, consider the board’s construction material, as it impacts durability and performance. Epoxy boards provide more rigidity and are great for performance surfing, while inflatable boards are portable and easier to store.
Difference between paddle boarding and paddle surfing?
Paddle boarding involves standing or kneeling on a board while using a paddle to propel through the water. This activity takes place on flat water surfaces, like lakes and rivers. Paddle surfing, on the other hand, involves catching and riding waves using a similar technique. It requires a specialized SUP board designed for maneuverability and stability in the surf zone.
Best inflatable SUP for surfing?
Inflatable SUPs are known for their portability and ease of storage. Some of the best inflatable SUPs for surfing include the iRocker All-Around, Red Paddle Co Whip, and NIXY Newport G4. These boards exhibit excellent performance, rigidity, and durability, making them suitable for catching waves and enjoying the surf.
Top SUPs for surfing small waves?
Surfing small waves requires a SUP that’s easy to maneuver and provides ample stability. We recommend the Naish Mana GTW, Starboard Wide Point, and BOTE Breeze Aero for beginners and intermediate riders. These boards offer excellent stability and are designed to maximize fun on small waves.
Ideal paddleboard for ocean waves?
When tackling ocean waves, your paddleboard should be nimble, responsive, and stable. The Fanatic ProWave, Badfish MVP, and Infinity New Deal are some of our top recommendations for ocean wave paddleboarding. These boards are designed to handle challenging conditions while enabling smooth paddling and maneuvering.
Performance surf paddle board recommendations?
For performance surfing on SUP boards, you’ll need a high-performance board with excellent responsiveness and agility. Some of our recommendations include the Starboard Pro, Sunova Creek, and SIC Maui Triton. These boards are tailored for advanced riders looking to push their limits and elevate their surf experience.