Inflatable Paddle Boards

If you are buying your first inflatable paddle board, start with how you will use it most often. Most paddlers fit into one of these routes:

• Beginner and family paddling: choose a stable all-round paddleboard with reassuring width and volume.
• Rivers, estuaries and longer days: look at touring paddleboards for better glide and straighter tracking.
• Fitness and speed: compare race paddleboards if efficiency and pace matter more than maximum stability.
• Performance feel: if storage and transport are not an issue, compare with composite paddle boards.

For a full plain-English overview, read our SUP buying guide.

Size is where many people go wrong. A board that is too small or too narrow can feel twitchy, tiring and frustrating. As a simple guide:

• Lighter beginners can usually use a standard all-round board comfortably.
• Taller or heavier paddlers often benefit from extra width, length or volume.
• Family paddling, dogs or kit usually calls for more stability and deck space.
• Longer distances are easier on a touring shape because the board glides further per stroke.

If you are between sizes, tell us your height, weight, experience and where you paddle. We will help you shortlist properly rather than guessing.

All-round inflatable SUPs are the easiest place to start. They are stable, forgiving and ideal for learning, short cruises, beach days and general family use.

Touring inflatable SUPs are longer and more efficient. They track straighter, carry speed better and suit paddlers who want to explore rivers, harbours, lakes and sheltered coastal routes.

Race inflatable SUPs are narrower, faster and more specialist. They are best for confident paddlers who prioritise glide, training and performance over easy stability.

Browse all-round paddleboards, touring paddleboards and racing paddleboards to compare the main routes.

Construction affects stiffness, weight, durability, pack size and feel on the water. A good inflatable board should feel solid underfoot, hold shape well and suit the way you paddle. Budget boards can be fine for occasional use, but regular paddlers often notice the difference in stiffness, rails, deck fittings, bags, pumps and overall finish.

For a deeper explanation, read our Inflatable SUP Construction Guide. If you are debating whether inflatable or hard is right for you, use our inflatable SUP vs hard SUP guide.

We stock inflatable paddle boards from brands we trust and understand in real-world UK conditions. Each range has a slightly different feel and buyer profile:

• Red Paddle Co — premium inflatable SUPs with a strong reputation for build quality, bags, pumps and refined packages.
• Starboard — broad range covering all-round, touring, race and performance-focused inflatable SUPs.
• Fanatic — easy all-rounders, touring shapes and quality packages from a major watersports brand.
• Jobe — popular inflatable SUP packages for family use, all-round paddling and value-conscious buyers.
• Duotone inflatable paddleboards — modern iSUP designs from a brand with strong wind, wing and SUP heritage.
• SIC Maui — a good option for paddlers who value glide, touring and performance-led design.
• Tahe — beginner-friendly boards, SUP-yak options and accessible all-round packages.
• JP Australia — practical, well-known watersports kit with solid all-round and progression options.

Still unsure? Compare our latest advice in the Best Beginner Inflatable Paddleboards guide and the Ultimate Inflatable Paddleboard Buying Guide.

These are useful examples of where different boards sit in the range. Always check the product page for current sizes, package contents and availability.

• Red Paddle Co 10'6 Ride — a proven all-round inflatable SUP for beginners, families and general paddling.
• Fanatic Fly Air Pure — an easy, great-value all-round iSUP package from a major watersports brand.
• Jobe Yarra 10'6 Inflatable Paddleboard Package — a popular all-round package for relaxed UK paddling.
• Red Paddle Co 11'3 Sport — a step-up option when you want more glide than a classic all-round board.
• Starboard Touring Deluxe — a touring-focused inflatable SUP for distance, tracking and efficient paddling.
• SIC Maui Okeanos Expedition Air Glide — an adventure-touring inflatable board for paddlers who want to cover distance and carry kit.

A board is only part of the setup. The right paddle, leash, buoyancy aid and clothing can make a bigger difference than most people expect.

• Upgrade or complete your setup with SUP paddles.
• Read the SUP Paddle Buying Guide before choosing alloy, glass or carbon.
• Shop safety and practical kit in paddleboarding accessories.
• Choose suitable flotation from our buoyancy aids collection.
• For UK conditions, use our What to Wear Paddleboarding guide and Wetsuit Buying Guide.

Board choice becomes much easier when you can feel the difference on the water. The SUP Test Centre at Woodmill, Southampton lets you compare paddleboards and paddles with practical guidance from the team.

This is especially useful if you are choosing between two sizes, comparing all-round and touring boards, or deciding whether a premium construction is worth the upgrade for the way you paddle.

You can also find more information about our Southampton store and test centre on The SUP Co x Woodmill page.

Buying the right board first time is usually better value than buying cheap, outgrowing it quickly and replacing it. If you are looking at a higher-quality inflatable SUP package, our finance options can help spread the cost where eligible.

For delivery, returns, store support and common buying questions, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact The SUP Company for straightforward advice.