Should I Get A Stand-Up Paddle Board? Comparing Hard vs Inflatable

July 20, 2024

Stand-up paddle boards have become very popular. Sales have surpassed that of kayaks. When selecting the right board for you, we recommend seeking the advice of an expert. Our staff ask the right questions to narrow down the right size and type of board. Read on to learn what you need to consider when selecting the right stand-up paddle board.

What is the primary use for your board?

There are many different uses for these boards. If the main function is leisure, one doesn’t need a high-performance board to just float around for short distances on the water. If one seeks fitness or touring, board shape will come into play. There are two types of boards to consider, displacement and planning. Displacement boards have a bow (front) that is designed like that of a boat. Water is displaced to allow it to travel more efficiently through the water. It is best for traveling a distance or touring. The other board style is more common and is flat along the entire length of the board. It can be used for surfing or just paddling more leisurely. See the photo for examples of both boards.

How will you store or transport the board?

Inflatables have become very popular because of these two issues. Hard board takes more space to store and requires a roof rack, truck bed or trailer to transport. If a customer has a dock at home, they can store it at the dock and won’t need to transport the board. If either storage or transportation is an issue, inflatables are the answer.

Pros and cons to consider when choosing a stand-up paddle board.

Inflatable boards are usually lighter weight than hard boards making them easier to carry. They ride higher in the water which makes them more prone to be affected by winds. Longevity requires more meticulous maintenance to reach their full lifetime.

Hard boards are heavier, require more storage space and more elaborate transportation means. On the other hand, they are more durable, last longer and perform better regarding tracking and conversion of effort to go forward. They are more expensive than the inflatable alternative, but the performance can make up for that.

Doing a demo before choosing your paddle board.

If you are still in the air between hard versus inflatable, finding a place to demo each could help. Doing so would give you the sense of how each performs and what would be best for you. If you have any questions, contact your local outfitter. In the Tampa Bay area, that would be us. Call us at 727-576-4169 or email at adventure@billjacksons.com. Either way, hard or inflatable, get yourself on the water and enjoy the fun of stand-up paddle boarding.