Choosing an inflatable paddle board
The most decisive criterion in choosing an inflatable paddle board is the program you have set yourself. Depending on how you use it, the most suitable board will not be the same. Indeed, the dimensions, balancing, and curves of the board will be radically different depending on whether it is a SUP board for the ride or surf for example.
The most important point to note here is the volume of the board. The more it will be important and the more the board, and you by extension, will be stable. The smaller the volume, the more responsive and responsive the board will be.
An inflatable paddle board for the ride
Whether you are a beginner, Sunday sportsman or paddle pro, there is nothing more enjoyable than taking a board and enjoying a beautiful landscape while a gentle breeze gently caresses your skin.
SUP walks are special moments of contemplation and relaxation, so it is not surprising that many families try and adopt them. To walk quietly on calm water, it is advisable to privilege a broad plank with round forms in order to benefit from a maximum of stability.
Thus, the perfect inflatable SUP board for the ride will have a length of between 10 and 11 feet with a width of 30 to 36 inches.
Thanks to the latest advances, rigid SUP boards are less interesting for the ride and this is even more true for a family ride: parents and children will each have their board in a compact bag for a much simpler transport!
An inflatable SUP for surfing
For fun with the waves, an inflatable stand up paddle board will have to be a little more compact than for the ride. Indeed, here we seek a little more performance and above all a lot of maneuverability to make the most of the sensations offered by the waves. Unlike a larger board that will be more versatile but less playful in the waves.
So, to choose a SUP board for surfing, the length will be very important. Unlike a board, very long, the surfboard will be very short to gain accuracy and speed of movement.
In terms of width, a SUP board for surfing may be substantially as wide as for the ride, so as not to lose too much stability.
Inflatable Paddle Surf
If you are planning a travel trip and do not have enough space to bring a paddle surf, or if you plan to carry your surf on a bike by the rack or even on a bus, an inflatable model might be a good choice. Inflatable models are found in all categories.
Inflatable paddle surf packs into a carry bag the size of a large backpack. To inflate it, count on average 5 to 10 minutes using a hand pump, or less with an electric or battery operated pump.
Advantages of inflatable paddle surf
They are very easy to transport and store.
They are perfect for the travel trip (offering great opportunities for outings to lakes and rivers in remote areas.)
They are extremely durable, which is perfect for whitewater outings.
Their flat bottom and great buoyancy promote stability, making them a good choice for beginners and yoga on the water.
Disadvantages of inflatable paddle surf
Although inflatable models are no less rigid than hard surface models, you may notice a slight bending in paddling, which requires increased effort on your part with each stroke of the paddle.
Some are quite thick, which can make you feel a bit higher and have less contact with the water.
If you are looking for a more advanced shape, chances are you will not find what you are looking for in the inflatable paddle surfing range.