We’ve tested hundreds of different paddle boards using rigorous, standardized methods here at Inflatable Boarder. So when we get the question, “What is the Best Inflatable Paddle Board?” we’re able to do something very few can – provide real comparisons by experienced paddlers.
We examine and compare different materials and constructions. We use real data to measure board performance. And of course, we use our experience as instructors and coaches to spend time with each of these boards to learn their nuances, quirks, and perks. Then we agonized over which one was the best.
But there’s a problem. There’s no such thing as the best paddle board available, but there is the best paddle board for you. And we can help you find out which one that is.
All of the boards below have earned a place on our Best Paddle Boards list based on their construction, performance, value, and brand quality. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses when compared side by side. Each tester had their own personal favorites for one reason or another. Each paddle board is the best in its own right and for the right paddler.
It’s important to note that we have put a lot of different types of boards on this list, but with a focus on all-around style iSUPs and some wider/larger all-around iSUPs. We’ve also included boards from a variety of budget ranges.
We also have more specific lists for Best Paddle Boards for Touring, Fishing, Heavier Paddlers, Kids, Budget Friendly, and even Whitewater.
The one thing all of the boards on this list have in common is that we don’t hesitate for a moment to honestly recommend them to you.
Best Inflatable Paddle Boards Comparison Chart
| section-hd | Top-Rated All-Around Inflatable SUPs |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOARD | DIMENSIONS | CAPACITY | WARRANTY | PRICE | |
| Isle Explorer Pro 12’ | Isle Explorer Pro 12’
| 12’ x 31.5" x 6" 23 pounds | 330 lbs | 5 years, 60-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Isle Pioneer 3 | Isle Pioneer 3
| 10'6" x 33.5" x 6" 20 pounds | 285 lbs | 5 years, 60-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Blackfin Model X | Blackfin Model X
| 10'6" x 35" x 6" 26.2 pounds | 450 lbs | 3 years, 45-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker All Around 11’ Ultra 2.0 | iRocker All Around 11’ Ultra 2.0
| 11’ 0” x 32" x 6" 20 pounds | 290 lbs | 3 years, 45-day return period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Sea Gods Carta Marina CX | Sea Gods Carta Marina CX
| 12'0" x 32" x 6" 21 pounds | 350 lbs | Lifetime, 30-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Hydrus Joyride | Hydrus Joyride
| 11'" x 32" x 6" 23 pounds | 350 lbs | Lifetime, 30-day return period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| thurso-waterwalker | Thurso Waterwalker 132
| 11' x 32" x 6" 26 pounds | 330 lbs | 2-years, 30-day return period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Gili 11’ Komodo | Gili 11’ Komodo
| 11'0" x 32.5" x 6" 26 pounds | 410 lbs | 2-years, 60-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| honu-byron | Honu Byron
| 10’6" x 31.5" x 4.7" 17.6 pounds | 240 lbs | 4 years, 30-day return period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Glide O2 Retro 3.0 | Glide O2 Retro 3.0
| 10’6" x 33.5" x 6" 21.8 pounds | 400 lbs | 10 years, 30-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| bluefin-cruise-carbon | Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8”
| 10'8” x 33" x 6" 30 pounds | 330 lbs | 5 years, 60-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Nixy Newport G5 | Nixy Newport G5
| 10'6” x 32" x 6" 18.8 pounds | 300 lbs | 3 years, 30-Day Return Period | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
Best Inflatable SUPs – Details/Quick Review
These paddle boards are all fantastic – that’s why they’re on our Best Paddle Boards List! This is not a ranking list with the “ultimate best” at the top. We firmly believe that choosing the right board for you is just as important as how well any board performs for us. These boards were all selected to offer the best options for many different paddler sizes, skill levels, and uses. The Stand Up Paddler who wants a really surfable board is going to want a different SUP than the new paddler who wants to start SUP fishing, and so on. There are 12 different paddle boards on our Best SUPs list in order to show off our favorite boards for a variety of different uses.
Isle Explorer Pro 12’ iSUP/Kayak
12’ x 31.5” x 6”
Availability: US
Read Full Review Here
I’ve told a lot of people that the Isle Explorer Pro 12’ is my “desert island” paddle board. If I could only have one board to do everything with, this is it.
First, Isle’s Pro construction is fantastic. It’s lightweight and impossibly rigid, with welded rails for maximum longevity. On the water, the Explorer Pro 12’ flies. It’s fast and efficient, but it’s also comfortably stable thanks to its wide tail profile.
The Isle Link system makes the Explorer Pro 12’ nearly infinitely adjustable and compatible with all sorts of different accessories
Bottom Line: The Isle Explorer Pro 12’ is a Swiss army knife. Whether you are touring, cruising, or want to convert it to a kayak, the Explorer Pro can do all of that and more.
Isle Pioneer 3
10’6” x 33.5” x 6”
Availability: US (International Availability Late 2024)
Read Full Review Here
The Pioneer 3.0 is Isle’s latest iteration of this long-time fan favorite (and tester favorite) paddle board.
The Pioneer 3 shares the same size and shape as the previous version but with the benefit of “trickle-down technology” that first appeared in the Isle Switch and Pro series boards. The new woven drop stitch core, AirTech fusion PVC shell, and PVC rail stringers shave nearly five pounds of weight from the board while still keeping it comfortably rigid on the water.
In addition to the new materials, the Pioneer 3 also has new heat-welded rails for superior durability and longevity, which Isle has recognized by doubling its warranty period from 2 years to 4. Other upgrades include a new roller bag and a new carbon fiber/nylon Remix paddle.
Bottom Line: The Isle Pioneer 3 offers great build quality and a stable ride in a high-value package.
Blackfin Model X
10’6” x 35” x 6”
Availability: US, International Shipping Available
Read Full Review Here
The Blackfin Model X is iRocker’s extra-stable and highly maneuverable fishing paddle board.
When you are chasing big fish on small waters, this is the right board. But it’s not a one-trick pony, either. The Blackfin Model X can be used as a regular cruiser-style iSUP as well. There’s a ton of space and cargo room, and the wide outline gives it enough stability for Yoga or even some light whitewater paddling.
With dozens of attachment points for everything from coolers to action cameras, extra fishing rods, and even passenger handles for bringing along a friend, the Blackfin Model X is ready to handle it all.
Bottom Line: The Blackfin Model X is a super-stable paddle board great when you want high capacity with high maneuverability.
iRocker All Around 11’ Ultra 2.0
11’0” x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, International Shipping Available
Read Review Here
The iRocker All Around 11’ Ultra 2.0 is one of our favorite compact iSUPs, making it a no-brainer to add to our Best Paddle Boards list. iRocker’s Ultra boards are made with lightweight but durable and rigid materials and feature a “split” design. The split deck pad and off-set features allow the All Around 11’ Ultra to fold in half lengthwise before rolling. Combined with a five-piece paddle and electric pump, the All Around 11’ Ultra fits into a bag that is half the size of a traditional iSUP bag.
While it is a compact iSUP, it’s not compact in its features or performance. At 11’ long and 32” wide, the All Around 11’ Ultra fits a wide range of paddlers and offers some excellent speed and tracking for easy long-distance paddling. There are over a dozen D-rings and two removable bungee cords to easily carry all of your cargo, kayak seat compatibility, and two threaded accessory mounts.
Bottom Line: The iRocker All Around 11’ Ultra is a super-compact and versatile iSUP for paddlers on the go or with limited storage space.
Sea Gods Carta Marina CX
12’ x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, Canada
Read Full Review Here
Sometimes when you try to design a product that is good at lots of different things, it ends up being great at none of them. But that is not the case with the Sea Gods Carta Marina CX. This ultralight paddle board is a wonderful blend of both touring efficiency and all-around comfort.
The longer waterline and torpedo-like outline give the Carta Marina CX some great speed on the water. It’s easy to paddle at a fast pace for churning out miles in a fitness paddle or to get to your next campsite on an expedition.
At the same time, the 32” width and stiff construction make the Carta Marina feel comfortable and familiar, like an all-around board. It’s stable on the water and easy to maneuver when you want.
With a multitude of accessory mounting points and cargo areas, the Carta Marina CX is just as easily set up for a multi-day trip as it is an afternoon cruise.
Bottom Line: The Sea Gods Carta Marina CX is a lightweight and versatile crossover SUP that is equally at home as an all-around and touring paddle board.
Hydrus Joyride
11’ x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, Canada
Read Full Review Here
Use code “BOARDER” at checkout to take 12% off the Hydrus Joyride
Hydrus’s dedication to building iSUPs with the highest quality materials and construction techniques available, combined with their “Function First” design mantra, makes them some of the top performers on the water.
Even the Hydrus Joyride – an all-around iSUP i is what I would consider to be a high performance board. The excellent rigidity and well-designed shape make it very efficient and quick on the water while the moderate nose and tail rocker keep it both easily maneuverable and capable of handling choppy conditions up through Class II whitewater.
With a large cargo area in the front and cargo D-rings in the rear, the Joyride can even be loaded up for fishing and SUP camping trips.
Bottom Line:The Hydrus Joyride is a durable, stable, and efficient inflatable paddle board that can truly handle anything you throw at it. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty and excellent customer service.
Thurso Waterwalker 132
11” x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, Canada, UK, Europe
Read Full Review Here
While the Waterwalker 132 blends a classic SUP shape and pleasing aesthetic with functionality. The board’s deck is kept free of extra accessory points, but still maintains a huge amount of versatility with twin cargo areas, paddle/fishing pole holders on each side of the board, kayak seat compatibility, and a GoPro mount with integrated threaded mount for other accessories.
The Fusion PVC construction is stable and rigid, and carbon fiber rail reinforcements add a huge margin of durability in one of the highest-wear areas of the board. Under the board are standard US and two-tab fin boxes for ultimate fin and performance customization.
The included carbon fiber paddle is lightweight and comfortable enough to use all day. Lastly, the Waterwalker 132 includes an electric pump for hands-free inflation.
Bottom Line: The Thurso Waterwalker 132 lives up to its name. This stiff and stable SUP is even highly regarded for its performance among our heavier testers, making them feel like they were walking on water.
Gili 11’ Komodo Hybrid iSUP/Kayak
11’ x 32.5” x 6”
Availability: US, International Shipping Available
Read Full Review Here
Dogs and Paddle Boarding are like peanut butter and jelly. Sure they are each great on their own, but put ‘em together and it’s an instant classic.
The Gili 11’ Komodo is a dog-lover’s dream board. First up we’ve got a full length deck pad and a wide, parallel shape so Fido can confidently roam the entire length of the board without slipping off or tipping you over. The bungee cords are all removable to give you even more clean space, and can be rearranged all over the board by using any of the over 30 lash tabs along the board’s edges.
That same board shape also makes the 11’ Komodo a great board to paddle, whether you are casually cruising the shore or taking your best buds for an adventure.
Lastly, with each 11’ Komodo purchase, Gili donates over $600 worth of dog supplies to a dog rescue of your choice.
Bottom Line:The Gili 11’ Komodo is a capable all-around SUP for both you and your pup.
Honu Byron
10’6” x 32” x 4.7”
Availability: US, UK, Australia
Read Full Review Here
The Honu Byron uses woven drop-stitch fabric with two layers of PVC fused together and triple-layer rails to create a rock-solid SUP when inflated to the 20 PSI maximum pressure. The diamond-groove deck pad is soft and secure under your feet, and the large tail kick-pad provides enhanced control of the board for pivot turning and surfing. A 9” fin comes with the Byron, and the standard Longboard fin box opens a world of possibilities for different paddling situations.
Any average-sized paddler will enjoy their time on the Byron, but it really stands out for those looking for a board that will grow with them as they learn new skills, and for the intermediate-to-advanced paddler that is looking for a more nimble and responsive SUP.
Deck storage is limited on the Byron, so it may not be the best choice for anyone who regularly carries lots of equipment. Honu does not include a paddle with the Byron, but they do offer a line of extremely high quality carbon fiber travel paddles at a reasonable price, and discounted when purchased with the board. Honu offers a 2-year warranty with an additional 2 years of product repair with all of their boards.
Bottom Line: The Honu Byron is a favorite among our testers for its responsive and sporty feel.
Glide O2 Retro 3.0
10’6” x 33.5” x 6”
Availability: US
Read Full Review Here
The Glide O2 Retro 3.0 occupies a board space that I didn’t realize existed until I began paddling it – the performance cruiser!
This unique paddle board blends some of the most advanced materials and construction techniques with a well-developed shape to give you a comfortable ride on the water as a beginner, but grows with you as your skill improves.
At 33.5” wide, I was sure the O2 Retro 3.0 was going to feel sluggish in the water, but instead, this board brings stability and speed to the beach. It also tracks incredibly well for just a 10’6” long paddle board.
Combined with the excellent kit of accessories (including an inflatable kayak seat) and Glide’s 10-year warranty, the O2 Retro 3.0 is a buy-it-for-life performance board good enough for beginner and advanced paddlers alike!
Bottom Line: The Glide O2 Retro 3.0 has the stability of a cruiser for new paddlers and the performance advanced paddlers love to use.
Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8”
10’8” x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, UK, Europe, Australia
Read Our Full Review Here
Let’s start with the construction. The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” double-layer PVC deck and hull with heat-welded seams and a carbon fiber rail as part of the Bluefin Flex Reduction System. It also has a second “Air Duo” inflatable chamber in the center of the board. This second chamber increases the overall stiffness of the board and offers a degree of safety in case one of the two chambers becomes compromised while on the water. All of these construction enhancements do come with a bit of a weight penalty as the Cruise Carbon 10’8” comes in at a scale-tipping 30 pounds.
If you are looking for versatility, though, Bluefin has your back. The Cruise Carbon 10’8” not only includes 14 d-rings, an action mount, and two sets of grab handles, but it also ships with a complete kayak conversion kit (seat, straps, and paddle) included with your SUP.
Bottom Line: The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8” offers a lot of versatility, an incredibly stiff platform, and an excellent warranty.
Nixy Newport G5
10”6” x 32” x 6”
Availability: US, CAN, UK
Read Full Review Here
Nixy has some pixie dust they put in their boards – or at least that’s my theory as to how they have made the Nixy Newport G5 so astonishingly lightweight and stiff at the same time. The FusionTech dual-layer laminated PVC and woven drop stitch work in partnership with the 32” width to bring this fairy tale to life for paddlers of all skill levels.
The standard all-around width in the main section of the board and rigid construction keeps the Newport G5 feeling comfortably stable on the water, but the tapering tail in the rear of the board gives it a lively and nimble feeling with just a few steps toward the tail. This design gives you the stability you need when first starting and the performance you’ll want when you’re ready to take your paddling to the next level.
The Newport G5 has a large cargo area at the tail of the board and a smaller one at the front for your quick-access needs. Between the cargo areas and five threaded action mounts, there’s not much you can’t take with you on the water!
Nixy also includes one of the best kit paddles we’ve tested. It’s a 70/30 carbon fiber/fiberglass hybrid with a medium-sized blade that gives power and control while still being soft on your body.
Bottom Line: The Nixy Newport G5 is a nimble all-around SUP that comes well equipped with onboard features and a fantastic kit paddle.
All-Around Stand-up Paddle Board FAQs
What is an All-Around SUP?
All-around SUPs are the bread and butter of stand up paddle boarding. They are designed to be user-friendly at all skill levels and are a great option for a first paddle board. All-around SUPs have a medium width and length for a good balance between capacity, stability, maneuverability, and tracking. They will typically have a variety of features for users who take part in multiple types of paddling activities, but they are not a specialized board that excels in one style of paddling alone.
What should you look for when choosing an all-around SUP?
When looking at all-around SUPs, the most important thing is to find a board that is the right size for you, has the features you need, and fits your budget. We recommend that paddlers over 6’ tall and over 220 lbs consider the larger options (11’ or longer and 33” or wider). Paddlers under 5’5” should consider boards that are between 30-32” for a more comfortable paddling experience. All all-around SUPs will have some sort of storage capability, and you should match the amount of storage space with your intended use. Consider what features you need for your intended use. If SUP fishing sounds like your style, make sure to pick a board that has multiple mounting points for easy equipment organization. If you like to do Yoga, a large deck pad with fewer d-rings and mounting points will be important. Lastly, consider your budget and check out what sales are going on to help stretch that even further!
What Size All Around iSUP is Best for Me?
It’s important to match your paddle board size with both your size, any passengers or cargo you regularly bring, and your style of paddling. For an individual paddler who likes to cruise around, most boards between 10-11’ long and 32-34” wide will provide a good mix of stability, maneuverability, and tracking. Larger paddlers (over 6’ tall and over 220 lbs) are generally more comfortable on boards that are a bit longer (around 11’) and wider (around 34”) for their increased stability and rigidity. If you plan to paddle with a partner or with lots of equipment for fishing or SUP camping, then it’s best to err toward the larger side as well.
All-Around vs Touring?
Touring SUPs are typically longer (12’-14’) and do not exceed 32” wide. They are designed for efficient paddling over long distances and straight-line tracking over maneuverability. If you like to paddle long distances and are interested in overnight camping from your SUP, a touring board might be the option for you. Larger all-around SUPs can also take you on these expeditions, but typically won’t be as fast or as efficient as a touring board. However an all-around board will be more maneuverable and more stable than a typical touring board, and is generally better suited to a variety of conditions.
Recommended Gear for All-Around Stand-Up Paddle Boards
While all-around SUP kits will include everything the paddle board needs to get you out on the water, there are a few accessories that will give you a better and safer experience on your new SUP.
- PFD – A PFD (Personal Flotation Device), sometimes called a life jacket or buoyancy aid, is a critical piece of safety equipment while on your SUP and may be required by local law. There are thousands of options for PFDs, and it is important to choose one that not only fits you well but is designed for paddling. A quality, well-fit PFD is not noticeable when being worn. See our Best SUP PFD reviews here.
- Dry Bag – Not everything we bring with us on our SUPs should get wet. Soggy sandwiches and waterlogged phones can ruin a good day out on the water. Dry bags come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs. See our Best SUP Dry Bag reviews here.
- Coolers – Whether you are keeping your drinks cold or your catch fresh, a great cooler can make the difference after hours out in the sun. Plus, hard coolers make a great seat to take a break from standing! See our Best SUP Cooler reviews here.
- Electric Pumps – Using the hand pump that comes with your board is a great way to warm up for your day paddling. But every now and then, it’s nice to relax while getting ready, too. Electric SUP pumps are easy to use and let you focus on other things while inflating your board. See our Best Electric SUP Pump reviews here.
Final Thoughts – Best All-Around SUPs
All-around SUPs are not only great beginner SUPs, but they offer a level of versatility that makes them an important part of every paddler’s options. Whether you are an advanced racer or just getting started, these all-around SUPs offer a fantastic paddling experience, high-quality construction, and an unbeatable range of use for everyone.
