If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
As far as essential outdoor gear for the summertime goes, you can’t go wrong with stand-up paddleboards. On top of their versatility, they make getting out on the water both fun and easy. Whether you’re looking for a new way to work out or just want to enjoy nature, the best stand-up paddleboard, along with a paddle, let you do just that.
While stand-up paddleboards are known for the way they let you leisurely explore the waterside, you can actually do a lot more with these boards than just paddle. With the right stand-up paddleboard, you can do yoga or even kayak too. They come in a wide range of sizes, but larger boards often are easier to use and to keep your balance, no matter if you’re on a lake or a pool, or somewhere with larger waves.
Here’s what you need to know about choosing the best stand-up paddleboards.
Buying Guide: What Are the Best Stand-up Paddleboards?
The best stand-up paddleboard for doing paddleboard yoga is usually not also the best paddleboard for kayaking, and vice versa. Before you start shopping, decide what kind of activities you want to do on your paddleboard. Once you have a clear idea of how you want to use your board, you can better select the best stand-up paddleboard for you.
One of the most important things to realize when you’re shopping for stand-up paddleboards is that some boards are rigid, like surfboards, and others are inflatable. Rigid boards typically have better glide and are more agile. They also last longer. However, they are more expensive than inflatable paddleboards and are harder to store. Inflatable boards are easier to transport than rigid boards, but they also require a more involved setup process. Each type of board has its advantages. Deciding between the two will come down to your budget, storage space, and personal preferences.
The Best Stand-up Paddleboards
With the above in mind, here are a few of our top paddleboard picks.
1. Isle Cruiser Stand-up Paddleboard Bundle
If you’re partial to more traditional paddleboards, the 10-foot Isle Cruiser is one of the best stand-up paddleboards that you can buy online. It has all the benefits of rigid boards (speed, agility, and glide) plus top padding that makes it soft and comfortable like the best inflatable boards. This cruiser board is perfect for stand-up paddling adventures, SUP fishing, and cruising around on the water with your pup. It weighs 24 pounds, and has an easy-to-grip carrying handle.
Amazon
2. Roc Inflatable Stand-up Paddleboard
Yogis can take their practice off-land with this wide-stance inflatable paddleboard. The board is 10 feet tall, 33 inches wide, and 6 inches thick, complete with a non-slip EVA deck pad. These dimensions and the slip-free material make this the best stand-up paddleboard for yoga because of the extra stability you get. The board also happens to be really durable, and it can hold up to 350 pounds, so you can paddle with a friend.
Amazon
3. FunWater SUP Inflatable Paddleboard
Can’t decide on which water hobby to invest in this summer? With FunWater’s SUP paddleboard, you don’t have to choose. This board comes with an accessory kit that has everything you need to convert it into a kayak, including a comfortable, easy-to-attach kayak seat and three adjustable fins. Thanks to the included carrying case, you can quickly pack up for the day and go on your way.
Amazon
4. Highpi Inflatable Stand-up Paddleboard
Catch a wave with this extra-tall, extra-wide stand-up paddleboard. Measuring 11 feet tall, 33 inches wide, and 6 inches thick, this paddleboard is seriously sturdy for whichever water activity you’re planning for the day. You can take a wide stance and trust in the board’s stability. Plus, it has three fins for better agility and tracking. We also love this board because even though it’s an inflatable, it’s designed to look like a real wood surfboard.
Amazon
