How to Choose a Paddleboard: Lightweight Edition
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a fun outdoor activity that guarantees a full body workout, with an infusion of the great outdoors and a perspective of nature far from what you might normally have. Whether you want to relax and sightsee or challenge yourself with surfing or racing, choosing the right paddleboard is an important factor in ensuring your safety and enjoying the experience based on your interests and skills.
Now, many novices to paddling may imagine that light boards inevitably mean performance and durability compromises. This is absolutely not true. In fact, the lightweight boards that are available now are newer and better because of ongoing advances in materials and board construction. In this buying guide, we are going to consider the features to look for when selecting paddle boards according to your weight and your use of them. We are also going to zoom in on some of the best lightweight picks ideal for both beginner and experienced paddlers.
How to Choose a Paddleboard: Lightweight Edition
Nowadays, inflatable SUPs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which allow the right board to fit the right paddling needs and ability levels. So, if you want to keep the carrying weight to a minimum without compromising too much on performance, here are some factors to bear in mind when selecting a lightweight inflatable paddleboard.
Consider your intended uses.
What type of paddling do you envision–cruising local lakes, experiencing ocean swells, or pushing speed limits? Boards designed for touring emphasize straight tracking over maneuverability best for fitness. Those for racing and surfing shape boards emphasize responsive handling. Stability also depends on intended conditions–wider boards aid beginner paddlers most.
Inspect board construction/materials.
Advanced construction such as fusion welding and cross-stitch drop stitch spread the load between all the boards for strength, but minimal materials. Boards constructed this way support heavy use without the extra weight. They dissipate impacts better than boards that rely on single layers of PVC alone and reduce the risk of delamination after several seasons. Amount and quality of the construction impact the board’s lifespan. It’s best that you purchase one built to last multiple seasons.
Evaluate board dimensions.
Length, width and thickness are all factors to consider for your desired performance traits. Lengths 9’6″ – 11′ allow novices balance, yet restrict maneuvering space. Experts tend to size down to increase this maneuverability. Too slender and straight and tracking suffers; too wide and boards feel sluggish. 5 “- 6” thick boards offer security and weight capacity limits for paddlers, especially novices.
Choose a hull design.
Planing hulls, similar to surfboards, maintain spinning tricks on waves but have more drag in long distance fitness. Their rockered profile peaks at board tips for faster edge response. Displacement hulls taper similar to canoes or boats, slicing through water with minimal wind resistance over long distances. Each design caters best to certain characteristics–choose the hull that best caters to your favored discipline.
Consider your body type.
Personal balance comfort impacts board choices more than guidelines. Test paddle to see how the different lengths and widths feel before purchasing. If a board is too narrow, it may feel unstable when full strokes are powered. Boards that are too wide or have poor weight distribution also create problems. Boards should be symmetric in design for distribution requirements, but should also match your needs.
Evaluate portability needs.
Inflatable boards roll tightly while rigid epoxies drag. Some boards break in half like suitcases. Others feature wheels or ergonomic carry handles. Minimalist bags barely fit under airline seats while wheeled packs roll any terrain. Prioritize transport per intended adventure, whether it be, rails, buses or wilderness expanses so you don’t get restricted in any way.
10 Best Lightweight Paddle Boards
Here are some top-rated lightweight paddleboards worth considering across a range of price points and intended uses:
NIXY Newport 10’6” Inflatable Paddle Board
Weighing in at a lightweight 21 lbs, the Nixy Newport Inflatable Paddle Board is extremely durable thanks to its advanced drop stitch and fusion welding construction techniques. This allows it to be rigid while shedding unnecessary weight. It delivers great all-around performance and tracks exceptionally well for its dimensions.
Beyond performance, it also has convenient deck features like a CarbonTM removable bungee system and stern grip handle. It comes with high-quality extras like a carbon fiber hybrid paddle, backpack, pump, and fin set. This makes it an excellent value for the affordable price. While not the cheapest option, it delivers quality, performance and includes accessories. It’s a great choice for beginner to intermediate paddlers looking for a versatile board.
iRocker All Around 10 Ultra
Taking lightweight design to the next level, the iRocker All Around 10 Ultra weighs a mere 19.8 lbs thanks to its cross-threaded drop stitch construction. This provides surprising rigidity without bulk or heft. It’s a remarkable performer given its slim weight.
Beyond performance, it’s also an excellent portable option since it packs down smaller than competitors for its class. Folding in half lengthwise allows it to fit effortlessly into the included wheeled backpack. At only 10′ long, it also maneuvers with ease. However, its narrower 32″ width means it may not suit larger paddlers as well as other options. Overall it’s a top pick for smaller paddlers seeking a high-quality lightweight board.
Atoll 11′
The wider 32″ build of the Atoll 11′ allows it to reach an impressive maximum capacity of 550 lbs while still weighing a reasonable 21 lbs out of the box. This is thanks to its quality dual layer fusion PVC construction, which provides durability without excess weight. Its extra length offers stability for recreational use while still maintaining efficiency.
Beyond performance, its smooth top and array of unused D-rings create ample mounting options for adventures. Standout features include an ergonomic handle and high-quality backpack. At an affordable price, it delivers superbly on value for money. It’s an excellent choice for leisurely day trips or multi-day excursions fully loaded with gear.
Maddle Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Striking an astonishingly low 13 lbs, the Maddle is among the lightest boards on the market. Despite its weight, it surprises with stiffness and rigidity thanks to cross-woven drop stitch construction. At only 10’6″, it offers maneuverability without compromising stability for beginners.
Its traction pad and soft rails provide security while learning without bulk or excess heft. Stylish designs add flare without performance tradeoffs. While likely not a long-term core board, it delivers fun and functions perfectly for novices. At a reasonable price, it inspires newcomers to fall in love with stand up paddling without heavy outlay. Overall an excellent pick for new paddlers.
Sea Gods Skylla CX
The Sea Gods Skylla CX delivers high-end engineering and materials at a fair price. At 19.5 lbs, its patented CX cross-woven drop stitch and fusion welding techniques maximize rigidity while minimizing ounces. Its sporty 11′ length and 33″ width support both stability and speed for versatile paddling. Handcrafted graphics embellish without impeding functionality.
From efficient gliding to sharp turns, it handles confidently across conditions. Onboard organization and included high-quality accessories like the carbon paddle and bag further boost value. Its touring racing potential and lifetime warranty backing set it apart as a premium pick. It’s well-suited for experienced paddlers seeking serious lightweight performance.
Blackfin Ultra CX
The Blackfin Ultra CX leads the iRocker Ultra line with its pointed touring shape and a mere 19.8 lb weight. Its cross-threaded drop stitch construction delivers surprising rigidity for a board so compactly packaged. While handling emphasizes maneuverability over stability relative to other boards, it achieves both attributes better than most in its class.
Like other Ultra models, its included electric pump and backpack simplify setup and transport. At just 10’6″, it benefits paddlers valuing agile handling without sacrifice. It earns top marks for serious lightweight paddlers seeking fitness-focused boards.
Gili Air 11’6″
The Gili Air earns praise as an affordable option with its modest 21 lb weight achieved through single layer PVC construction. Though basic, its wide 32″ platform offers stability well-suited to calm water beginners. Upgraded finishes and extras over prior models like tri-fin and backpack improve value.
While stability and straight-line tracking suit new paddlers, advanced users would benefit from upgraded construction materials found elsewhere. However, its recreational-focused performance and affordable balance still make the larger 11’6″ an approachable board within budgets so you don’t have to spend a lot . Overall it serves as a great entry-level board.
Gili Komodo
At a steady 21 lbs, the Gili Komodo distinguishes itself with a shockingly grippy deck pad claimed to hold dogs up to 90 lbs. Its wide 33″ shape and dual layer fusion build increase stability for beginners or those with gear. Adjustable fins, mounts, bungees and bags provide versatility.
While not the lightest, it handles predictable recreation while accommodating extras. Its large deck space converts perfectly to other uses as skills progress too. Though entry-level in build, it delivers outstanding value thanks to its compatible deck perfect for four-legged friends or stretching out with total security. It earns top marks for dog-loving paddlers.
Nixy Huntington Ultra Compact G4
Living up to its name, the Nixy Huntington Ultra Compact G4 delivers supreme portability within its 20″ x 13″ x 26″ bag at a competitive 18.75 lbs. Its 9’6″ size lends nimble maneuverability, while woven drop stitch and fusion welded layers reinforce stiffness without bulk. Thoughtful touches like included carbon fins and bag rank it among top lightweight boards for quality and convenience when traveling.
Tracking and gliding meet performance needs of its class. While stability requires skill, it inspires intermediate-level fun anywhere thanks to pack-and-play simplicity. Its balanced size-to-weight ratio and included gear make it a premier pick for minimalist adventures.
Serenelife Free Flow
As one of the most budget-friendliest picks, the Serenelife Free Flow introduces new riders to stand up paddling affordably at $499 for its 19.6 lb build achieved through single layer construction. Calm-water stability and straight tracking accommodate beginners, while its planning hull fosters basic maneuvering skills.
Basic extras suffice for starting out, and its popular following on shopping sites speaks to reliable performance. While likely not for serious athletes, it serves well as a first board. With little investment, the Free Flow inspires to explore and potentially upgrade later as skills progress. Overall a risk-free way to fall in love affordably.
Choosing a paddleboard becomes easier when you know the right things to look out for.
Whether you’re looking to relax and sightsee on the local lake or push your limits surfing ocean swells, choosing a board is an important decision to get the most enjoyment out of the sport. This guide broke down the key factors to consider like board construction, hull design, dimensions, intended use, and portability needs. While board specifications provide a starting point, personal preference and fit should also guide your selection process through hands-on testing when possible.
When it comes to inflatable paddle boards, advancements in materials allow today’s lightweight models to perform on par with their bulkier counterparts while maintaining excellent durability. Overall, inflatable stand up paddle boards provide active outdoor fun across skill levels in portable, long lasting, durable packages suiting all types of fitness buffs and water sports enthusiasts. Choose a standup board tailored to your uses and start enjoying light, breezy water adventures today!
For more information on beneficial water therapies and all things around benefits of water, stay tuned to my blog. I’m always available to give recommendations, reviews, and health information around water. If you found this particular post helpful, you might want to check out my posts on how to choose a camping water filter, best water filters for your RV and best portable water filters!
Stay hydrated,
Shashank Varma (Mr. Water Geek)