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Best Paddle Boards for Beginners

04/02/2021

Fancy a unique activity that's been attracting millions lately? Get the chance to feel what is like to walk on water! Although not with your feet but with a paddleboard. Experience the serenity of floating on water and explore the range of possibilities you can enjoy yourself with. There is absolutely no other activity that matches up to this. Of course, to enjoy it to the fullest, one would need the best equipment around – join us as we go over the best paddleboards for beginners, make your pick, and enjoy!



Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board


Quality and competitive price are what one gets with a Roc Inflatable iSUP. Military-grade materials are the highest grade currently on planet Earth, and that is what Roc iSUPs are made from. To make things more interesting, Roc iSUPs cost nearly half of what other iSUPs with similar material costs. It not only presents a Roc as a consideration but as a must-have. With a width of 33", its stability makes it very convenient for all people with different skill sets and suitable for all water environments. The Roc was created to accommodate most of the population as it has a maximum weight limit of 300 pounds. The premium package includes all the accessories to make your experience nothing less than majestic. Included is a collapsible aluminum paddle for easy storage and transportation and a waterproof bag for all your electronic gadgets. On top of that, there is a hand pump, a leash, and finally, the backpack to store everything. Just grab your backpack and go paddling - that's Roc iSUPs for you!!


ROC Inflatable Stand up Paddle Board


Thurso Surf Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board


A convertible in the world of iSUPs, Thurso Surf Waterwalker iSUP, that's the name. An all-rounder iSUP that was made for actually everyone. With a slightly oval shape at the front, it is unlike many other all-round iSUPs, which are rounded. It makes the Thurso not just a stable iSUP but also a smooth one as it can glide with ease covering long distances effortlessly. With three detachable fins, which use Quick Lock, the installation and disconnection are only a matter of seconds. Thumbs up to Thurso engineers for understanding that many want to surf, not to be iSUP mechanics. The fins can be installed in different setups, providing a whole new board with different capabilities. For maximum speed, just install the center fin, and for maximum stability in rocky waters, install all three. 


For yogis, there is a paddle holder to secure your paddle when you want to meditate. Aluminum paddles have dominated as the best in the market, but a Thurso paddle doubts that with a carbon shaft and weighing only 2lbs. The Thurso paddle is stronger and lighter simultaneously. With a strengthened nylon blade that does not warp, the Thurso paddle is the King of all paddles. Along the Thurso, Surf iSUP is a manual pump, capable of both inflating and deflating the board. The pump has two modes of operation: one is for low pressure, and the other - for high pressure. Thurso iSUP is a perfect example of a board that was designed by top engineers. If you love to surf, with a Thurso iSUP, you will surf with pleasure.


Thurso Surf Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board


iRocker All Around 


Built for maximum stability, iRocker All Round iSUP was designed just for that. Surprisingly with a width of 32" to provide maximum stability, it also has 3 fins to further increase the stability of the iSUP. The iRocker is most suitable for heavy and tall riders who require more stability than average-weight riders. It has the strength to support weight up to 435 lbs. The board is also ideal for dual riding, increasing the fun even more. With 20 D-rings strategically positioned, one can mount their accessories to get even more when paddling with an iRocker. 


The introduction of the upgraded carbon paddle has increased the ease of paddling. The paddle is lighter and stronger, providing the rider with nothing but the best paddling experience. The EVA deck-pad has the extra comfort to provide extra protection to the feet and act as a yoga mat. For hikers, the iRocker is an ideal iSUP. The backpack is made with cushioned adjustable straps and back support for easier and comfortable transportation. The backpack is made with weather-proof material to make sure that nothing happens to the board. Hiking to that perfect spot to do your paddling on the best stable iSUP is a dream come true with an iRocker All Around iSUP.


iRocker All Around


Nixy Newport 


The Nixy Newport is the board that was created to have the best features in all categories. With its sides reinforced with carbon, it provides the durability you can only find on the Nixy board. Its dual-layer PVC makes it one of the reliable boards as you are guaranteed that you have a durable board. With a weight of approximately 21lbs, it is convenient for easy traveling and optimum paddling experience as it is super light. The base of 33" provides the stability that will make a beginner feel like a pro. 


The Nixy board comes with a superior hand pump, capable of operating in high or low-pressure mode. On top of that, there is a hybrid leash made of reliable high-quality polyurethane. To stuff all your things and get ready to go paddling, a Nixy G4 backpack is equipped with three heavy-duty wheels, which are not affected by pulling the backpack on rough terrain. The straps of the backpack are padded to provide extra comfort when carrying it on your back. A mixture of lightweight, stability, and performance - all combined in one product Nixy Newport iSUP, get yours now.


Nixy Newport


Blackfin Model XL


Blackfin Model XL is the ultimate all-around paddleboard for everyone, even for beginners. With a width of 34", the Blackfin provides the highest level of stability among all-round paddleboards. They are suitable for bigger and taller riders. With its maximum carrying capacity of 485lbs, it can support multiple riders at once. For performers, the Blackfin is the answer: a wide range of activities can be easily done without having to be concerned about the stability of the paddle. Its smooth flow coupled with its awesome stability makes it ideal for long tours. With 20 D-rings and 8 action mounts, what more can one really want?


For those who like fishing, why not paddle and do fishing at once? The Blackfin iSUP is now equipped with fishing rack attachment points. To complete all this awesomeness, there is a super-strong yet super-light carbon shaft paddle to make your whole experience magical. With an EVA deck-pad, it provides extra comfort to your feet and functions as a yoga mat. It has carbon rails for improved strength and stability. This amazing paddleboard and all its accessories can be easily carried around in a Blackfin-wheeled travel bag. The travel bag has cushioned straps to provide you with comfort when carrying your paddleboard. For just $917, one can have the mother of all-around paddleboards and fully experience the wonders of paddling. 





What to Look for When Buying a Paddle Board as a Beginner?


Interested in paddling, but don't know which board to buy? Not knowing exactly what you want, usually one ends up with an overpriced item, a not suitable item, and in frustrating cases both. Below are factors one needs to consider before parting with their cash for that board so that you can rush and go paddling.




The first factor to consider is the price. SUP boards are available in all ranges of prices: from the cheapest ones with inferior materials to the most expensive boards with features that are not even necessary to a beginner. Most cheap high-quality boards range from $500-$800, and they are equipped with features to get the best of paddling as a beginner. Before you confirm that transaction, you might want to check if the price is matching what you are looking for.


Secondly, you need to understand its mode of operation. For beginners, an all-rounder paddleboard is recommended. With this type of paddle, you can experiment with different paddling activities to find, which one fires up your adrenaline. An all-around board is the most recommended for a beginner.


Next is stability. As a newbie, it will take a few tries before you can stand on the board and paddle across the waters. As such, a board with maximum stability is required to make sure that your first experience in paddling is enjoyable and that you quickly get the hang of it. Most beginner boards have a width range of 31-33", which provides beginners with that extra stability to get them paddling. 


Next is the strength of the board. As a beginner, the board is guaranteed to encounter bumps and drops. The structural integrity of the board must be able to take in these impacts without interfering with the safety of the board. Most boards are made from military-grade material. Therefore, you might not need to worry a lot about this factor, but it's a must to make sure that the board you are buying is made with durable material.


Lastly, you might want to consider the add-ins that come with the board. Some suppliers sell the board and its accessories separately whilst others offer all as a combined package. Therefore, you must understand what you are getting from your supplier.



Is Stand Up Paddle Boarding Hard?


Stand-up paddleboarding is a water activity that one can learn and starts to have fun in a couple of hours, provided you have a good instructor. It's one of those activities with few things you have to get the hang of to start having fun. One obstacle that usually troubles beginners is maintaining balance on their board. Once one manages to stand upright on the board, the major lesson is over. To prove that it's one of the easiest activities out there, it does not matter what age, gender, and physicality one have. It can be done by anyone and at any time. Therefore, paddling is not hard but an enjoyable activity for everyone who wants to give it a try.



Types of Paddle Boards


In general, there are three major types of paddleboards. There are the race board, surfboard, and all-round board.


The race board is the most narrow and pointed among all other boards. This kind of make-up makes it the fastest board as it is built for nothing but speed. The race board is for experienced paddlers, and it is not recommended for beginners as its limited stability requires a pro to safely maneuver the board.


Race Board


The surfboard is used in surfing. It is the shortest one among all the boards, and it is more pointed compared to the all-round board. Its profile makes it the most suitable to ride on a wave as it will be easily controllable. Besides surfing, its use in other paddling activities is limited because, in still water, it has got poor stability and is slower.


surfboard


The all-round board is multi-purpose with the capabilities to do any paddling activities. They are thicker, wider, and longer than other types of boards. Their increased stability makes them an ideal choice for beginners. And their versatility is an option for those who are still in the experimental mode to find which paddling activity they like. On other models, a windsurf can be mounted for sailing, thus exploring a whole new activity.



Essential Paddle Board Gear


Essential Paddle Board Gear


First and foremost, you will need a SUP - you can't do anything without it. 


Secondly, you must have a SUP paddle: the paddle is your engine and steering wheel combined. It drives the board forward and is used for maneuvering the board. 


Next is the leash. Its function is to keep you connected to your board: in case you are toppled over, you don't have to worry about your board floating away. 


One will also need a PFD (personal floatation device). Not everything happens according to what we have planned before. Therefore, it is necessary to have a PFD with you in case anything happens. In some places, one is not allowed to paddle with a verified PFD. Eventually, while enjoying, it is a must that your safety comes first.


For those who plan to paddle at night, a flashlight and a whistle are a must. In case of danger, with those two, you can easily call for help, and at the same time, aiders can quickly locate you.


A swimsuit is for paddling in a warmer environment, and a wetsuit is for chilly weather. On a chilly day, neoprene sports shoes will make your paddling more enjoyable.


Sunscreen is a requirement on a sunny day. We all know the damage that can be done by UV rays on the skin. Therefore, it is a precautionary measure to make sure you are covered in all aspects.



Winding Up


There is nothing more frustrating than a wasted opportunity to do something with a definition of fun in it. Paddling is one of those fun activities. So if you have the opportunity, why not order one now and discover that enjoyable experience? Remember, paddling is one of the easiest water sports, which does not care about your age, gender, and physical build, but provides you with the best moments and emotions of your life. Make your pick now and paddle away!