Inflatable Paddle Boards vs Hard Paddle Boards
Whether you are new to SUP or hitting the open water like an old pro, you know that your most important investment will be your stand up paddle board.Your biggest decision will probably be choosing between an inflatable paddle board vs hard paddle board. Both boards have their advantages and disadvantages, so let’s take a deeper look.
Inflatable SUP vs Solid SUP: Basic Info
Hard Paddle Board (Rigid Board)
Referred to as epoxy, fiberglass, or traditional boards, hard paddle boards come in two varieties.
1. Soft-Top
The soft top paddle board features a foam covering that is considered more durable than the surfaces of a harder board. These boards are light-weight and generally more affordable than a traditional hard board.The soft foam and fiberglass surface of a soft top paddle board provides a softer landing surface in case of falls.These boards also tend to be a bit wider for stability, making it a good choice for beginners. Soft top boards are also a good choice for those who choose to do SUP Yoga, or are looking to make SUP a family sport.People who paddle with pets prefer the surface of the soft top board because it gives their pets a better, less slippery surface to stand on. 2. Hard-Top
Hard top paddle boards are sleek, strong, and generally a good choice for those who have experience in SUP, and want to seriously pursue the sport.They are a great choice for any competitive paddle boarding or long distance touring because they feature precision handling in the water. Hard paddle boards are made with Extruded Polystyrene cores (EPS), covered with fiberglass and epoxy. Resulting in a relatively lightweight board. Other options include much heavier boards made of plastic, and the lighter weight carbon fiber which is generally more expensive.A hard paddle board is a good option for those looking for precision in their sport, such as competing or racing, surfing, or for long distance paddling. They also offer a bit more stability than an inflatable board, and hard paddle boards offer a little more variety in size, length and shape for a more custom fit.However, these boards fall a bit short in the hard paddle board vs inflatable paddle board debate. This is because they are more prone to damage if dropped or if they strike a rock.Hard boards also require a special car rack to transport them, and are heavier to carry any distance to water such as across a beach or down a trail.Airlines charge fees to transport paddle boards, and if you are renting a car at your destination, you will need to pay extra for a vehicle that can transport your board.Hard boards are prone to breakage, so transporting them safely is always a concern.Additionally, the average length of a hard paddle board can be between nine and twelve feet, so storing them in your home or garage can be problematic.Finally, hard paddle boards are generally higher priced than their inflatable counterparts.Inflatable Paddle Boards (iSUP)
An inflatable paddle board is designed with a PVC outer covering and drop stitch construction that creates a core of air. These boards are inflated with a pump to a standard 12 to 15 PSI and become extremely rigid when filled.
Inflatable vs Hard SUP: The Verdict?
