Best Paddle Board for Surfing – Top 5 [Ranked]
Let’s take a look at the best paddle board for surfing.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find a paddle board that’s perfect for you.
If you’re a water sports enthusiasts looking for a new challenge, paddle boarding may be the ideal activity for you.
Why Should I Invest in a Good Quality Paddle Board for Surfing
There are several reasons why you might want to invest in the best SUP board for surfing:
Performance
A high-quality SUP board will generally perform better in the surf than a cheaper, lower-quality board.
This means you’ll be able to catch more waves, ride them more smoothly, and potentially even do tricks.
Durability
A well-made SUP board should be able to withstand the rigors of paddle board surfing, including impacts with the ocean floor and being tossed around in the waves.
This means it will last longer and require less maintenance over time.
Comfort
The best surf paddle boards will be more comfortable to ride, with board features such as a deck that’s easy to grip and a shape that’s well-suited to your size and surfing style.
This can make a big difference in your enjoyment of the sport.
Safety
A high-quality sup surf board will be more stable and predictable in the surf, which can help you stay safe and in control.
This is especially important if you’re a beginner or if you’re surfing in challenging conditions.
Best Paddle Board for Surfing – Top 5 Ranked
Boardworks Kraken
The Boardworks Kraken is the perfect board that allows you to surf the waves and paddle the bay.
Its wide stance provides stability for riding waves and its sharp nose is ideal for rough water.
This open-water SUP performs equally well in calm lakes and bays as well as in rougher ocean surf and waves.
The integrated Lift UP handle makes it easy to carry and lock, and the three front tie-downs with crossing bungee allow for easy gear storage while on the water.
The center fin box comes with an FCS2 Connect Dolphin Fin for a toolless installation and high performance in all conditions.
It can also be set up for a 5-fin configuration to match the conditions.
The Kraken is constructed with EPS core laminated with layers of fiberglass and bamboo veneers, featuring stunning graphics and coated with high-grade paint and polish.
Specs
- Color: Bamboo/Grey/Ocean
- Material: fiberglass, foam, Nylon-Mesh, Epoxy
- Board Length: 9ft 9in, 10ft 3in & 11ft 0in
- Width: 36in
- Thickness: 6in
- Weight: 47lbs
- Weight Cap: 240Lbs
- Volume: 200liters
- Finset: Single 9in Fin
What are people saying?
WAVESTORM 9ft6 Stand Up Paddleboard
A high-performance board designed for all types of water.
Its EPS foam core is reinforced with three stringers and a WBS (Water Barrier Skin) top deck for added strength and durability.
The textured deck traction on the top deck provides a secure grip, and the storage accessory straps allow you to bring along all your gear.
The HDPE slick bottom skin helps the board glide smoothly through the water, while the adjustable length and interchangeable end make it easy to customize the board to your preferences.
In terms of accessories, The board comes with a handle piece and a paddle piece, so you have everything you need to get started.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this board is a great choice for a fun and enjoyable paddling experience.
Specs
- Color: Blue
- Material: Foam
- Board Length: 9ft 6in
- Width: 33in
- Thickness: 4.5in
- Weight: 35.1lbs (15.9kg)
- Weight Cap: 300lbs
- Volume: 195 liters
- Finset: Removable 9in flat water fin
What are people saying?
Run Wave Inflatable SUP
A high-quality, lightweight board that’s perfect for all types of water.
Made of durable PVC material and featuring the toughest drop stitch materials in the industry, this board is built to last.
Its high-intensity layer is specifically manufactured for superior air holding, and it inflates and deflates in just 5 minutes.
One of the standout features of the Runwave Paddleboard is its portability.
With a simple roll, you can take it wherever you want to go, whether it’s a lake or the sea. And thanks to its unique non-slip pattern, it’s a great choice for beginners.
The Runwave Foot Leash also makes it safe to surf and helps to prevent the loss of your board.
Overall, the Runwave Stand-Up Paddleboard is a versatile and reliable choice for paddlers of all skill levels.
At 11′ long and 33” wide, it provides the stability and balance you need to enjoy a great paddling experience.
Specs
- Color: Arrow blue, Kohala blue, Lotus pink, Parrot, Sunshine blue
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Board Length: 11ft
- Width: 33in
- Thickness: 6in
- Weight: 16kg
- Weight Cap: 352lbs
- Finset: 3 fins, stability side fins with a removable larger center fin
What are people saying?
ISLE Versa
A rigid and stable board that’s perfect for riders of all skill levels.
Whether you’re into flatwater paddling, yoga, fishing, or any other activity, this board has you covered.
Its versatile design makes it ideal for any skill level, and it provides an easy, stable ride suitable for riding waves.
One of the standout features of the Versa is its thermal-molded technology, which eliminates waste in the construction process and creates an eco-friendlier epoxy board that’s both lightweight and ultra-durable.
This ideal board is also stylish in design and color, making it a great choice for those who appreciate aesthetics.
In terms of accessories, the Versa comes with everything you need to get on the water. This includes a carbon hybrid adjustable SUP paddle with a nylon blade, an 8′ coil leash, and a nylon touring center fin.
With all this gear included, you’ll be ready to hit the water as soon as you unpack your new board.
Specs
- Color: Blue, Coral, Green
- Material: Nylon
- Board Length: 11ft, 10ft 5in
- Width: 32in, 32in
- Thickness: 5″, 4.5”
- Weight: 32.2lbs, 27lbs
- Weight Cap: 300 pounds, 215 pounds
- Volume: 216 liters, 175 liters
- Finset: Fiberglass Touring Center Fin
What are people saying?
ISLE Explorer
The ISLE Stand-Up Paddleboard is a versatile board that’s perfect for all types of water and conditions.
Whether you’re into yoga, pets, fishing, or touring, this board has you covered.
Its large size and expandable bungee system allow you to store and access all your cargo, making it a great choice for long journeys and short adventures.
One of the standout features of the ISLE Paddleboard is its Military-Grade PVC construction, which is 6″ thick when fully inflated.
This makes it extremely durable and able to withstand all sorts of abuse.
The board is also built with the AIRTECH FUSION LITE manufacturing process, which is both durable and lightweight, with a unique bond that can’t be achieved via traditional hand-gluing.
This means you won’t have to worry about dings or blown seams.
In terms of comfort, the ISLE Paddleboard features an updated soft brushed EVA traction pad that has grooves for extra traction and maximum comfort on bare skin.
It’s non-abrasive when knee paddling or practicing yoga on the deck, yet it’s still durable enough for your pet’s rough paws.
Overall, the ISLE Stand-Up Paddleboard is a top-quality choice for paddle boarding enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Specs
- Color: Aqua/Navy, Peach/Moss
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Board Length: 11ft6in
- Width: 34in
- Thickness: 6in
- Weight: 24lbs
- Weight Cap: 300lbs
- Volume: 336 liters
- Finset: Removable Nylon centre fin for simple transport and storage
What are people saying?
What to Consider Before Purchasing a SUP board for Surfing
It’s important to do your research to ensure you’re purchasing the right board for your needs, here are a few tips to ease that burden.
Size and shape
The size and shape of the board will affect its performance in the surf.
A longer, narrower board will generally be more agile and easier to turn but may be less stable. A shorter, wider board will be more stable but may be less maneuverable.
Construction
The construction of the board can affect its durability, performance, and weight.
Epoxy boards tend to be lightweight and durable, while an inflatable paddle board is more portable but may not perform as well.
Fin Setup
The fin setup on a paddle board can affect its stability and maneuverability in the surf.
Just one fin will provide a stable, predictable ride, while multiple fins will offer more control and versatility.
Weight Capacity
Make sure the board you choose can support your weight and any gear you’ll be carrying.
Price
Consider how much you’re willing to spend on a paddle board.
While it’s generally a good idea to invest in a high-quality board, you don’t want to overspend if it’s not necessary.
Experience Level
If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a larger, more stable board with a longer deck pad while more experienced surfers may prefer a smaller, more agile board.
Can you Surf with any SUP Board
Technically, you can surf with any stand-up paddle board (SUP), although some boards will be better suited to surfing than others.
In general, boards that are specifically designed for surfing will have a shorter, wider shape and a sharper rail (the edge of the board) to allow for better maneuverability in the surf.
They may also have a single fin or a thruster fin setup (three fins) to help with stability and control.
Paddle boards that are designed for other activities, such as touring or yoga, may not be as well-suited to surfing.
These paddle boards are often longer and narrower, which can make them less stable in the surf and harder to turn.
That being said, if you’re an experienced surfer, you may be able to surf with any kind of board, including a touring or yoga board.
It just might be more challenging and require more skill to do so.
So it’s always better to use a board that’s specifically designed for surfing if you’re just starting out or if you’re not an experienced surfer.
Inflatable Paddle Boards vs Solid Paddle Boards
Inflatable stand-up paddle boards (iSUPs) and solid boards both have their pros and cons for surfing.
One advantage of inflatable boards is that they’re more portable and easier to store than solid boards.
They can be rolled up and carried in a backpack, which makes them a good option for traveling or if you don’t have a lot of storage space.
Inflatable boards are also generally more forgiving and easier to learn on than solid paddle boards, as they have more give and are less likely to cause injury if you fall.
On the other hand, solid boards tend to perform better in the surf than inflatable boards.
They’re generally more rigid and responsive, which makes them more agile and easier to turn in the waves.
They’re also typically more durable than inflatable boards, as they’re less likely to be punctured or damaged.
Ultimately, the choice between an inflatable board and a solid board will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
If you want the most performance in the surf and are willing to pay more for it, a solid board may be the better choice.
If you prioritize portability and ease of use, an inflatable board might be a better fit.
Ciaran’s take on the Best Surfing Paddle Board
A board less than 6 inches thick with a grippy deck should be your main priority. Happy paddle surfing!
If you enjoyed this article, you may also enjoy Benefits of Paddle Boarding or the Best Paddleboard for Dogs.
Ciaran Coughlan
A commercial analyst by day, and an outdoor/adventure blogger by night.
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