Quick Answer: For all-around leisure paddling, inflatable SUPs are much better overall, due to advantages in durability, portability, weight, versatility, and injury prevention. But if you are buying a board mainly for SUP surfing or racing, certain technical attributes of hardboards make them worthy of consideration.

How long do inflatable stand up paddle boards last?

Inflatable paddle boards can last anywhere from 5 to many years. A paddle board with higher quality PVC layers is more durable. If you take good care of your inflatable SUP, it will serve you for a long time.

Why are inflatable paddle boards so expensive?

Good inflatable paddle boards are expensive because they are built using better materials, better construction methods and advance technology. Cheap inflatables are inexpensive because they cut corners.

Is a paddle board worth it?

The Verdict - Pumping up inflatables is very hard, and time consuming, You will be tired out before you even start to paddle. Hard boards are ready to go at all times. If you value convenience and want to spend more time paddling than pumping, inflatable boards ARE NOT worth it.

Are inflatable paddle boards good for beginners?

The best stand up paddle board for beginners is the Roc Inflatable Paddle Board. It has fantastic reviews, is affordable without being cheap, and is great for all-around beginner use. It also comes packed with accessories to get you started paddling on the water immediately.

Does paddle boarding get easier?

Why is SUP considered an easy water sport? Stand up paddle boarding is considered easy because paddlers of all shapes, sizes and ages can learn enough to start having fun in no time with just a little bit of effort.

How much should I pay for an inflatable paddle board?

A good inflatable paddle board from a reputable brand will generally cost between $900 for a solidly performing all-around board with a durable construction to $1200 and up for higher-end boards with additional material layering and unique design features for specialty uses.

How hard is it to inflate a paddleboard?

An average size inflatable paddle board takes only 5 minutes to inflate. Inflating is super easy. All you have to do is: Connect your hand pump or electric pump to the valve.

How much should I spend on a paddleboard?

You can find inflatable SUPs for as cheap as $180 and high-end epoxy SUPs for as much as $2,000. If youre simply looking for a reliable and durable recreational SUP for the summer months, you should expect to spend between $700 to $1,100 on an epoxy or inflatable SUP.

Should you wax the bottom of a paddle board?

If you put it on the bottom the wax will increase the friction between the water and your board. This will create drag and your board will not glide as smoothly as it should. Wax on the bottom only makes it harder to paddle with no added benefit.

Can an inflatable paddleboard pop?

Inflatable paddleboards will not pop during regular use. Generally, inflatable boards are as tough and durable as rigid boards.

What should you wear paddle boarding?

Bare feet, or neoprene shoes if getting in and out of rivers. Coiled leash and Personal Flotation Device or gas inflatable aid. Quick dry shorts, quick dry t-shirt, bare feet. A rash vest or thin neoprene rash vest in more extreme surf environments, or where weather is reducing the temperature a little.

Why are paddle boards more expensive than kayaks?

Paddle boards are more expensive than kayaks because they are made out of more complex materials than kayaks. Kayaks are typically made entirely out of plastic, while paddle boards require fiberglass, epoxy resin, a foam core, and other expensive materials.

Is paddle boarding difficult?

Is Paddle Boarding Hard? (Answered) Stand up paddle boarding is an incredibly easy water sport to learn, and you can become an expert paddle boarder in no time. People of all ages and fitness levels are capable of learning to paddle board in just a few hours with proper instruction.

Are cheap paddle boards any good?

Whilst cheap paddle boards may appear attractive at first, the low quality materials and construction mean that not only is their performance far inferior to their more expensive counterparts but they are also far less durable.