Are you considering purchasing the best inflatable stand up paddle board (also known as an iSUP)? You’ll see that there are many of them on the market, all with different price ranges and quality guarantees.
This short and easy tutorial is intended to offer you an overview of things to think about before purchasing.
#1. The thickness of the Board
SUP boards vary in thickness from 4 to 6 inches thick. The 4-inch planks will work well; however, they will be closer to the water. You’re more likely to get your feet wet if you’re heavier! A 4-6 inches deep board will be more stable and more straightforward to get started with for novices.
#2. Length of the Board
There are so many distinct board lengths! Choose the 10’6 or 10’8 depending on your weight and height for an all-arounder board when you’re just starting out. They will be the finest’ all-rounders,’ providing a good mix of stability and maneuverability when starting out.
#3. Your Budget
It would be wonderful if we didn’t have to think about money… yet we do. So, before you go down the rabbit hole of various boards and styles, make a budget. What is the maximum amount of money you can spend on your Board?
Depending on your paddling goals, you may spend anywhere from £250 to £1,000+ on a high-quality, long-lasting inflatable stand up paddle board.
#4. The Reviews
You’d be surprised at how much you can learn by just Googling the Board you’re considering purchasing and seeing what other people say about it.
Top tip: think about what you’ll be using the Board for a while reading the reviews. This will assist you in getting the most out of what other people have said about the Board after using it.
#5. Weight of the Board
Now, if you’re simply intending to pump up your Board beside the vehicle and throw it into the canal directly to your side, you can probably ignore this.
If you intend on going on an adventure with your SUP, such as going for a stroll and then inflating up in a remote location, be sure to check the weight of not only the Board but the whole package. Some SUPs are much heavier than others, so double-check, especially if you walk or use public transportation.
#6. Ease of Setup
You’ve probably noticed that different boards have various fin systems. Some have a single primary center fin, while others have three V-shaped fins. In general, the one-fin configuration is better for touring, tracking, and lengthy trips. At the same time, the three-fin arrangement is better for all-around paddling and, in particular, surfing.
#7. Your Current Weight!
One of the most common problems we encounter on the water is someone purchasing a board that is too heavy for them and sinking in the center. Each board ad should include a maximum weight (usually in kilograms), so make sure you know how much you weigh before purchasing.
You want to make sure you’re a few kilograms under the maximum weight stated. If you’re bigger than the size chart suggests, go up a size.
That’s all there is to it.
