ISUP Construction
Inflatable SUP is the real deal. Yes, there are some lesser quality inflatable Stand Up Paddleboards on the market that do not do the sport justice but at The SUP Company, we don't sell them, never have and never will.
Inflatable SUP technology has come on hugely in the few years and as a result inflatable paddleboards are now a real alternative to a hard-shell board; performing to a very similar standard while offering all the advantages that come from being inflatable. Inflatable SUPs are light, highly portable and can be taken to the most remote of places with ease. Inflatable SUPs allow you to freely explore your favourite beach, river, canal, or as yet undiscovered areas without the consideration you have to give to a hard-shell paddleboard.
We have done the hard work for you by selecting the best inflatable paddleboards from the best brands on the market.
There are usually a variety of construction choices each manufacturer offers. The construction method and materials used have a big impact on the board’s performance. The construction is also an indicator for how long the board will last and the price that you pay. There are pros and cons for each construction, but we will try to help you find the best board for you.
Single Skin Construction
All inflatable paddles boards start with the drop stitch, thousands of internal threads between the top and bottom layer of the board. Once air is put into the board, the dropstitch only allows the board to expand to a certain point before going tight and taut. This allows the board to maintain its rigid shape. Dropstich fabric on its own isn’t airtight, so a liquid PCV layer cover the dropstich creating a airtight seal. This is a single skin construction.
Fusion Double Layer Construction
The Fusion/laminated double layer construction is the gold standard technology in inflatable paddle board manufacturing. The lamination process puts a stop to cosmetic wrinkles or bubbles on the boards surface. Laminated boards are up to up to 25% lighter and 30% stiffer than boards using a glued double layer construction. If you are looking for the best performance from an inflatable paddle board a laminated double layer construction is the way to go.
Woven Fusion Double Layer Construction
The woven manufacturing process uses woven dropstich which requires less dropstich yarns which makes the board even lighter. The dropstich then makes the board even more responsive and stiffer.