Top 11 Best Paddleboards For Surfing

Are you looking for the best paddleboard for surfing?

Summer would be incomplete if you miss out on enjoying water sports like surfing.

Getting a good paddle board for surfing will make all the difference ! So this article  will share all the best paddle boards you can use for surfing as well as the pros and cons of each.

Summary of 11 best paddle surfboards!

1. Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
2. SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
3. DAMA Stand Up Paddleboard 
4. Boardworks SHUBU Kraken Inflatable Paddleboard 
5. ISLE Pioneer Inflatable Paddleboard
6. TUSY Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
7. FaaFuu Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
8. Viniie Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard 
9. PORTAL Stand-Up Paddleboard
10. SAKEE Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard
11. Sky Surf Foil

Disclaimer

This article may contain some affiliate links which means I may  earn some commission when you click on it, but no additional cost to you. Hope you will find this article helpful.

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What Are The Best Paddleboards?

The best paddleboard is SHABU Kraken from Boardworks. Not only does the design look simple and stylish, but the quality of the board is also excellent yet still affordable.

The board’s length and width are in the medium range which is suitable for surfing and the fin setup installed is the tri-fin setup. The thruster setup performs well for all skill levels.

SHABU Kraken has a displacement hull that will create a smooth and efficient ride. 

This option has most of the features fit for a surfing paddleboard. That’s why SHABU Kraken is chosen.

What Is A Paddleboard And Why Do You Need One?

A paddleboard is a longer version of a surfboard and also can be used when you want to enjoy surfing up.

Nowadays, paddleboarding has become one of the most popular water sports. The reason you should have one is you will not only use it for surfing but also for yoga, fishing, and touring. 

It won’t be a waste of money to own one and enjoy water activities during the weekend, but it WILLl be a waste if you buy the wrong board! 

Keep on reading to see the top 11 best paddleboards for surfing.

Top 11 Best Paddleboard For Surfing

 

1. Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

The best inflatable stand-up paddleboard for surfing is different from others.

This board is industry-leading in terms of weight as the board’s weight is only 17.5 lbs, which is 20% lighter than the competitors.

If you are looking for a lightweight paddleboard, this is the best SUP surfboard for you.

Specs

• Weight: 17.5 lbs
• Length:10’
• Width:33”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 350lbs

Features

• Removable main fin
• Comfort grip handle 
• Safety leash
• Premium dual-layer non-slip deck pad
• Full accessories with a backpack

Pros	Cons
Easy to carry and use	No manuals or instructions included
Easy to inflate and deflate The fin is easy to attach and detach	White colour easily looks dirty Need extra caution when handling the paddleboard

2. SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

SereneLife is one of the brands that sell the best SUP boards for surfing.

The best surfing SUP boards need to have good features that are suitable to be used for surfing.

This paddleboard from SereneLife is constructed with an additional PVC layer which is good for durability. It is also quite a hard paddleboard which helps with stability and performance.

All skill- levels can use this paddleboard as they made it suitable for a variety of conditions. 

You can also do yoga or fishing using this board because the deck pad has been extended to the tail of the board making it convenient to use for other activities too.

Specs

• Weight: 19.6 lbs
• Length:10’6
• Width: 32”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 270 lbs

Features

• 6 selection of colours
• Tri fin setup
• Safety leash tie-down cords
• Coiled ankle cuff
• Carrying handle
• Foldable paddle
• Full accessories with a backpack

Pros	Cons
Excellent quality	The paddles are heavy and do not float
Easy to fold and store Very stable Durable More than 1 person can ride Fin easy to install

3. DAMA Stand Up Paddleboard 

To young surfers or youngsters who just started to try surfing, this option is the best SUP board for surfing for you.

The graffiti design looks funky and fun. Plus this paddleboard is equipped with a camera mount so you can record yourself having fun.

They also provide a safety leash and a waterproof bag for you to keep your essentials. 

This paddleboard is also 20% lighter than other paddleboards, which makes this board a good choice for teens.

Specs

• Weight: 19.6 lbs
• Length:10’6”
• Width:32”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 320 lbs

Features

• Fast-inflating valve
• 1 removable balance fin
• Soft double grab handle (on top and in the middle)
• Shoulder strap
• Floating paddle
• Sport camera bracket mount
• Full accessories with a backpack

Pros	Cons
Sturdy	Not suitable for heavy people
Very stable  Easy to inflate and deflate	The design easily comes off

4. Boardworks SHUBU Kraken Inflatable Paddleboard 

Boardworks is nominated as one of the best paddleboard brands due to its affordable yet high-quality surfboards and beach accessories.

SHUBU Kraken is one of their best inflatable paddleboards for surfing if you are considering buying from this brand.

This paddleboard for surfing has a Dual Fusion Laminate (DFL) and a specialized sidewall material to make the layers more durable and resilient.

The deck pad is embossed with an ultra-comfortable “Honey fob” to provide an easy grip and feel soft on your feet.

Specs

• Weight: 24.5 lbs 
• Length: 11’
• Width: 33”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 225 lbs (novice), 250 lbs (intermediate), 280 lbs (advanced)

Features

• Comfortable neoprene carrying handles
• Tri fin setup
• Full accessories with a backpack

Pros	Cons
High stability	A bit pricey
Easy to carry Beginner-friendly	Low durability

5. ISLE Pioneer Inflatable Paddleboard

Another most trusted brand you should give attention to is ISLE. They are also known as a beginner-friendly paddleboard brand.

The reason this brand is known for its best surfing paddleboards is most of the paddleboards are extremely stable and lightweight.

ISLE Pioneer Inflatable paddleboard is stable and spacious which is perfect for beginners. This board drifts smoothly on the ocean.

This paddleboard option comes with military-grade PVS so it is guaranteed to be rigid and can be used for more than a year.

Apart from that, this paddleboard looks very attractive and has good aesthetics. 

If you are looking for a good performance paddleboard but at an affordable price, this would be it.

Specs

• Weight: 24 lbs
• Length: 10’6”
• Width: 34”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 285 lbs

Features

• 3 selection of colours
• 6-point front bungee 
• 4-point rear bungee
• Rounded center carrying handle
• Paddle holder
• Nose handle
• Pet-friendly traction pad
• Full accessories with a backpack

Pros	Cons
Can be used for more than a year	The colours easily come off
Sturdy, light, and durable The paddle is light The fin is easy to install

6. TUSY Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

This best inflatable stand-up paddleboard for surfing is the cheapest one from the TUSY rangel. Although the price is cheap, the design looks premium.

The paddleboard is composed of thickened PVC with most of the area covered with an EVA (anti-slip material) cushioned deck to give extra comfort and friction.

The tri fins help to improve the overall speed, handling, and steering. You will have a great experience skimming and gliding the water with this paddleboard.

If you love to make videos or you want to capture the moments, this board includes a camera mount that is perfect for you.

Specs

• Weight: 22.6 lbs
• Length: 10’6”
• Width: 33”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 300 lbs

Features

• 3 removable fins
• Convenient handle
• Camera mount
• Shoulder strap
• Full accessories in a backpack

Pros	Cons
Easily inflates and deflates	Difficult to install the centre fin
Stable and sturdy	Not suitable for heavy people

7. FaaFuu Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

This paddleboard is one of the best stand-up paddleboards for surfing and is great for all skill levels.

The board is very durable and the tri fins give you good handling and steering.

It is a beginner-friendly paddleboard suitable for learning and the design is simple yet looks fresh.

Specs

• Weight: 19.6 lbs
• Length: 126”
• Width: 30”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 300 lbs

Features

• 3 selection of colours
• 3-pieces adjustable aluminum paddle
• Removable tri fins
• Full accessories in a backpack

Pros	Cons
Easy to install	Not easily balanced
Good customer service Sturdy Can fit more than one person

8. Viniie Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard 

This minimalist paddleboard is the best sup paddle for surfing and other purposes such as yoga or touring.

The material is made of military-grade triple-layer  PVC and has a displacement hull design. 

This design looks pointed at the front end of a paddleboard and longer compared to the planing hull design but they have lower maneuverability which is not suitable for beginners.

You will have a great experience surfing with this paddleboard as the displacement hull is great for surfing.

If you are an intermediate surfer, you can consider this paddleboard to help you upskill to the advanced level.

Specs

• Weight: 20 lbs
• Length: 10’5”
• Width: 30”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 330 lbs

Features

• Tri fins setup (detachable centre fin)
• 3-piece paddles
• Comfortable handle
• Full accessories in a backpack

Pros	Cons
Sturdy	The handle’s location s a bit off
Easy to inflate and deflate Lightweight

9. PORTAL Stand-Up Paddleboard

The best SUP paddle for surfing is the board that is highly durable and stable.

The material used for this paddleboard has waterproof features to enhance durability with the tri fins feature to increase the stability of the board.

This is the best SUP surfboard if you are focusing on these two criteria when buying a new paddleboard.

You will also get a 1-year manufacturer warranty when purchasing this board.

Specs

• Weight: 17.8 lbs
• Length: 10’
• Width: 32”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 264 lbs

Features

• 3 selection of colours
• Elastic safety rope
• 3 carrying handle
• Tri fins setup
• Complete accessories in a backpack

Pros	Cons
User friendly	Low stability
Easy to set up	The paddle is not included

10. SAKEE Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard

The reason this inflatable paddleboard is one of the best inflatable surfboards is the material used. It is lightweight and suitable to be used for both genders.

The features are also suitable for surfing like the displacement hull and the tri fins setup. 

When you purchase the paddleboard, it comes with a backpack and other accessories such as a pump and a paddle.

Specs

• Weight: 18 lbs
• Length: 10’
• Width: 32”
• Thick: 6”
• Max Capacity: 310 lbs

Features

• 3 selection of colours
• Tri fins setup (detachable centre fin)
• Full accessories in a backpack

Pros	Cons
Sturdy	Takes some time to inflate and deflate
Not easily scratched

11. Sky Surf Foil

Sky Surf Foil is the best sup foil for beginners because it has 3 different sizes you can choose from. 

The channeled bottom shape will help you to deliver a softer touch-down and due to the smaller size compared to other paddleboards, the sup foil is made heavier so you will have a great experience when paddling.

This option features a track foil mount system to help you fine-tune your surfing. 

Also the centreline bumper at the footpad will help your foot locate the centreline when riding it besides delivering a nice grip and comfort.

Unlike other paddleboards, Sky Surf Foil is easier to pump.

The best part of this sup foil is the material used to create it. Material such as vector met, carbon stripes, and bamboo reinforcements give the exact amount of strength and flex needed by the foil board.

Specs

Features

• 3 selection of sizes (4’8” / 5’8” / 5’11”)
• Channeled bottom
• Increased volume
• Track foil mount system
• Centreline bumper

12. Sky Surf Foil WS

One of the best sup foil boards you can consider, as this board is designed 100% optimized for foiling.

The compact shape gives good stability and maneuverability for you. 

To avoid catching in tight turns on the waves, the board is equipped with a pulled-in nose and beveled rails for neutral touchdowns.

They also increase the recessed deck shape to give extra comfort and control when you paddle. 

This surf foil also has a full deck pad with a centreline bumper to deliver a good grip and enables you to locate the centreline when riding it.

To ensure a great strength to weight ratio, this board uses their new Vector Net Technology which reinforces bamboo wood and stringer in key areas and comes with exceptional frame stability for a responsive and direct feel.

Specs

Features

• Carrying handle
• Track foil mount system
• Channeled bottom
• Full deck pad with centreline bumper

8 Things To Consider When Buying A Good Paddleboard

Before you buy a new paddleboard, you need to consider these 8 things so then you will make a good purchase.

1. Cost

I am pretty sure you know the price range of paddleboards and this may bother you (it certainly bothered me!)

The best purchase would be low in cost but high in quality. 

But if you are an experienced surfer, it may be worth it to spend extra money to buy a customized or highly specialized board.

2. Construction

There are 2 types of paddleboards which are:

•  Solid construction and
•  Inflatable construction.

A solid paddle board is made of a single piece of material that has been stretched tightly over the molding and baked at a high temperature.

Solid construction paddleboards are recommended because solid boards are heavier, will last longer, and will provide better maneuverability as they have a better centre of gravity when they sit lower in the water. 

It is easier to ride on the open water with solid boards due to less drag.

To create a strong inflatable board, 2 pieces of latex are layered together and it can be inflated and deflated as needed. For those who like to have their paddleboard in tow at all times, this paddleboard is for you.

However, inflatable boards are more convenient than solid boards as they can be deflated and easily stored in a small space. So, this is an excellent option for you if you don’t have much space to store a solid paddleboard.

The downside of this type is they might not last long due to the material used for the construction. Common damage you might be facing is from over-inflate 

Damage from over-inflation is common damage that can lead to a crack board over time.

You can consider an inflatable paddleboard if you are looking for a board to use on the calm water.

Choose an inflatable paddleboard if:

• You are a beginner
• You have limited storage and portability is important
• You want to try SUP Yoga
• You plan to use the paddleboard on rivers and whitewater

Choose a solid paddleboard if:

• You want to have more choice
• You have enough space to store it
• You think performance is important more than portability

You can read the article from GILI Sport to help you distinguish between these two types of constructions.

3. Hull Type

Choosing the right hull type is also important. Hull is the body of a paddleboard that will directly impact the performance of the paddleboards on the water.

Paddleboards usually are built with either a:

•  Planing hull or
•  Displacement hull. 

There is also a hybrid hull design for some paddleboards. This hybrid design is a blend of the best features of displacement and planing hulls into a board.

Planing hulls are flat and wide which is similar to a surfboard with a rounded nose. They are great for SUP Yoga, whitewater, recreational paddling, SUP surfing, and all-around paddling.

Displacement hulls are designed with a pointed nose to pierce through small chops and waves as they will create a smooth and efficient ride by cutting through the water. This hull type is ideal for paddlers who are looking for a faster board and long distance paddling.

The length for displacement hulls is usually longer and tracks very straight. The downside is they have lower maneuverability compared to the planing hulls.

For beginners, planing hulls is great because they are stable and versatile.

If you are looking for a paddleboard that can handle long-distances, you can go for the displacement hull option.

4. Fin Setup

Another important aspect to give attention to is the fin configuration. Paddleboards for surfing are better if they have a customizable setup.

For a paddleboard to be able to surf up will require fins to do so. That is why you need to choose which fin setup is the best fit for you.

Single Fin – It is a classic style which was the first available setup. This setup is an ideal choice for traction to hold the line and for generating a straight-line speed.

Twin Fin – It is an upgraded version of the single fin design as this setup is faster and gives higher maneuverability in small to medium size waves. The downside of this setup is they have no fin at the centre of the board so it will be prone to lose traction if it takes a tight bottom turn in a bigger wave due to “spinning out”.

Thruster/Tri Fin – This setup is the most common configuration and you will easily find it on the majority of surfboards’ shapes and sizes. Thruster performs well due to the stability, maneuverability, and control for the beginners until the pros. It also gives you options of whether to ride on a twin on a single fin if you want.

Quad Fin – A combination of the twin fin and thruster is suitable for smaller and medium-size surfboards. This setup is good for generating speed, allowing quick, sharp turns which is very similar to the twin fin but with the added control.

2+1 Fin – A slightly different setup from the traditional thruster as it has a larger centre fin. A thruster setup has 3 equal-sized fins but a 2+1 fin has 2 smaller rail fins or known as “side bites” and a larger central fin. The side bites have greater control and stability to the surfboard when it’s on the rail.

Five Fin – This is an all-in-one setup but it is not designed to have all fins but it gives you the choice to use your ideal setup without having to buy another surfboard.

5. Length

The length of a surfboard is important as it will affect the performance of the board and the speed. It also determines the water conditions that your SUP can handle.

Short (10’ and under) – Short surfboards are a good choice for surfing and kids as they make them more maneuverable. High maneuverability makes them suitable for surfing waves.

Medium (10’ to 12’) – The medium-length board is the best for all-around paddleboard use, yoga, and recreational use. It is because they have planing hulls and rounder shapes which will make them stable, buoyant, and able to handle most water conditions. 

Long (12’ and above) – These kinds of boards are excellent for long-distance, touring, and racing. They are the fastest due to their length and tend to track a lot straighter on the water. They often come with displacement hulls.

Besides determining the speed, the portability and weight of the paddleboard will also be influenced by the length and you should also consider transporting and storing your paddleboard.

6. Width

The next factor is the SUP board’s width. In general, the wider the paddleboard the better the stability. So if you buy a thin paddleboard, it will be less stable.

When choosing the right width for your paddleboard, you need to consider your body type, weight, and ability. Commonly, the width of the boards is between 25” to 36”.

Narrow board – If you are stressing about the speed, these boards are a good choice but note that the stability will not be great. This size of paddleboard is ideal for advanced paddleboarders looking for a more challenging challenge. Lighter paddleboarders tend to have a smaller weight capacity and volume, they are more suitable to use narrow boards. 

Wide Board – These boards are great for activities such as yoga and surfing, more likely for recreational use. They have excellent stability and normally have a higher volume and weight capacity but you still need to consider the length.

As for beginners, choosing a wider paddleboard will give you a better experience as it is more stable. 

7. Volume And Weight Capacity

These two are the main factors you need to consider and will be determined by your size. You have to buy a paddleboard that is made for your size to ensure the board is stable and gives the best buoyancy.

Although the volume and weight capacity of the paddleboard will be influenced by your weight, the length, thickness, and width will also determine the board;s performance.

Volume: Usually measured in litres. Higher volume means higher weight capacity of the board, so it will be more stable and buoyant on water.

Weight Capacity: Usually measured in pounds. Weight capacity will let you know the limit of weight it can support and stay efficient on the water. The paddleboard won’t float if you have exceeded the weight capacity and it will affect the performance of the board.

8. Thickness

The thickness of a paddleboard will determine its volume and weight capacity. Thinner boards will have a smaller volume and lower weight capacity and vice versa. 

If you are using the paddleboard on flatter water surfaces, thinner boards would be just fine but for the open sea with waves, opt for thicker boards.

What Makes A Paddleboard Good For Surfing?

A paddleboard good for surfing is a paddle board that fulfills your needs and helps you have a great experience surfing. 

You need to choose an ideal board shape for surfing. 

Go with a board with the shortest length of your recommended range, middle range width and a thickness that would give you enough buoyancy when you are surfing.

A Single fin in the centre creates the least drag but since most of the paddle boards are longer, adding side fins alongside the centre fin give the rider the ability to control the board’s tail.

A contoured tail pad area with a raised rear gear will give you more leverage and help to keep your back foot from sliding off the board. This feature is very helpful for a good surfing paddleboard.

So you have to focus on a paddleboard that would give high stability, buoyancy, and maneuverability as surfing requires all of it.

Can A Paddleboard Be Used For Surfing?

YES!

You can surf using a paddleboard, as there are some paddleboards made specifically for surfing but not all boards.

A paddleboard for surfing is practical if you choose the right specification because, with the right board, it is possible.

What Is The Best Paddleboard For The Ocean?

It depends on the condition you will be riding it and also your skill level. 

For beginners, choose a stable paddle board with a wide frame because you will start on small waves only.

A shorter paddle board with high maneuverability is for more advanced paddleboarders.

What Is The Best Paddleboard For Beginners?

As for beginners, your goal would be to learn how to control the balance when standing on the board. 

A paddleboard with a planing hull and length between 9’6” to 11” is suitable for you.

ISLE Pioneer paddleboard is the best paddleboard for beginners as most of the paddleboard’s features are suitable for beginners.

The brand is also trusted to be a beginner-friendly board. A beginner needs to buy a board from a reputable brand so you have a great experience trying this new water sports activity. 

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Conclusion

Nowadays, 5 inches thick stand-up paddleboards are hard to find but if you found one, do let me know!

Did any of the 11 best paddleboards for surfing catch your eyes?

Don’t think for too long! Get stuck in before you lose the excitement (or courage) to this amazing watersport! 

I would recommend you to buy an electric pump as a replacement for the pump included in the package so you won’t take a long time to inflate the best paddleboard for surfing you have chosen.

Paddle on! 

Top 11 Best Paddleboard For Surfing