Whether you’re just getting started with paddle boarding, or just looking for a secondary board, you probably aren’t looking to spend a fortune on your next one. More than likely you’ll be looking at an entry-level SUP that’s around $300-500.
There are many good boards in this price range, but Not all entry-level paddleboards are the same. While a cheap beginner-friendly paddle board won’t be comparable to an inflatable SUP that costs over $1,000, that doesn’t mean it won’t get the job done when you’re just looking for an affordable way to hit the water on the weekends.
It’s important to understand what the price includes before you purchase an inexpensive SUP. Finding the right board is important. You don’t want to buy a board that will come apart in just a couple of months. The trick to finding a quality paddle board at the right price is to make sure the only corners that were cut in production were the bells and whistles you might not need or even want and the quality of the actual board itself hasn’t been compromised.
We’ve put together a list of the top ten best cheap inflatable paddle boards on the market, so you can choose one that suits your budget and your needs. To come up with our list, we had to look at more than just the price tag of these cheaper, entry-level SUPs, and base our decision on the overall performance of the board (stability, maneuverability, tracking), how it was made, and any add-ons that are included with the package.
We know not everyone can afford to spend thousands on an inflatable board and perhaps even if you can afford it, you might not want to. So, for those people, we present our list of the best inflatable paddle boards under $300, $400, and $500. These are boards we’ve tested personally in-house or have had one of our experts in the field provide their feedback on them.
Top Selling Paddle Boards
The Top 3 selling SUPs on Amazon are under $500.
Our top Paddle Boards under $500
#1- PathFinder P73
To stigmatize this board with a “cheap” label is truly a crime. Indeed, this one is Pathfinder’s best-selling boards and for an abundance of reasons.
The history of the company in charge of this board reaches far beyond a few boards on this list, placing it significantly ahead. However, titles mean nothing without efficiency.
Accordingly, the Pathfinder P73 at hand measures a respectable 9 feet 9 inches in length which covers up for most users, 30 inches in width which makes the board spacious and stable and 5 inches in thickness which raises the quality a little higher than you’d expect on a board at this price.
Speaking of which, it is important to note that thickness plays an important role in shaping the quality of an inflatable paddle board. Hence, 5 inches translates into a lot of sturdiness and an admirable weight capacity.
Further, the board is made out of tough PVC layers similar to those in zodiac boats and then enhanced via an industrial drop stitch construction. That is just one of the reasons that make this one of the best budget-friendly paddle boards on this list.
Additionally, the board also exhibits a number of practical little features. The Pathfinder comes with a decent gripping pad that will fortify your grip and make maneuvers a lot more responsive.
Also, the board comes with a cargo net which is great for holding your shoes, snacks, paddle…etc. Then, the Pathfinder P73 features a practical central carry handle that will enable you to transport the board individually on land.
Moreover, the Pathfinder might not be the most expensive board out there but it’s still a reliable one. Hence, the board can easily outperform most inflatable paddle boards in its category thanks to its round smooth edges, lifting nose, and single fin navigation system.
Eventually, the Pathfinder is a solid pick for those of you who are on a tight budget, not to mention that it comes with a high-pressure hand pump with gauge, a light aluminum paddle, detachable fin, a wrench, and a bag to fit all of the above.
#2- Sportstuff 1030 Adventure
This Adventurer might be the most fun board on this list but it still contests for cheapest as well. Indeed, the 1030 Adventurer is one of the company’s demanded boards with a high rating on Amazon.
So, what makes this the best cheap inflatable paddle board? Well, there are quite a few things that do.
Starting at the most important bit, the Sportstuff 1030 Adventurer measures an appreciated 10 feet and 6 inches in length, placing it in first place, for now, 30 inches in width, which is great both for the paddler looking for a stable yet maneuverable board and a rather humble 4 inches in thickness.
Moreover, the board not might be that expensive, but it still is pretty robust. This inflatable paddle board has a lot to offer. Starting at the military-grade PVC hull, the board is exhibiting resistance at the level of bulletproof vests. Also, the 1030 Adventurer is even fortified via an industrial drop stitch construction, making it virtually indestructible.
Post quality, features are the most attractive part of any inflatable paddle board, which is why this board comes with a large gripping pad that enhances your ability to balance out and control the board. Also, the board features a number of D-rings for the cargo net and a place to add a kayak seat. Then there is the carry handle at the center of the board, making it easier to transport it while inflated.
From features to performance, the 1030 Adventurer would most likely lose a speed challenge with racing paddle boards, but it is a great recreational iSUP and a budget-friendly one at that. The board is nevertheless made better via its slick hull, lifting the nose, and smooth edges, making it reliable and easy to control in most environments.
Packaging is the most interesting bit about this board since it comes with a mesh backpack, a removable kayak seat, a fin, a high-pressure hand pump with pressure gouge, and a leash. These are but a few things that make the Sportstuff 1030 Adventure a great deal for the buck.
#3- SereneLife 10′ iSUP
There is obviously a big difference between an expensive board and a budget inflatable stand up paddle board but usually, the difference remains in the price tag alone. The SereneLife is a great example of that due to its many virtues which start right at the measuring board.
There are not a lot of extras included with this budget-friendly paddle board. However, at 10 feet in length, it is the perfect size for most paddlers out there. At 30 inches in width, this paddle board offers stability and balance for the paddler (especially those who are just starting out), and at 6 inches in thickness, which beats all of the boards reviewed so far, you will certainly have a sturdy board with enough weight capacity to handle you and some extra gear (or your four-legged friend). Indeed, one of the best qualities of this board has got to be its thickness and perhaps the one which makes it a great pick for a first-time paddler who is on budget.
Usually, the price of a board doesn’t affect the quality of the build material all that much. Hence, a company will use the same material to build its boards from the most expensive to the least. Although the build would be different, this budget-friendly inflatable paddle board is still made out of durable military-grade PVC material. The board is further enhanced via an industrial drop stitch construction to make it almost impossible to break apart.
As far as features go, the SereneLife paddle boards don’t really offer any more or less features than the rest of the boards in here. It still comes with a solid gripping pad, which will improve the paddler’s balance and command over the board. Also, the board comes with a few D-rings, making a cargo net on the nose of the board and a few others around the pad for installing a kayak seat. The last D-ring is on the tail for safety leash attachment. Moreover, the SereneLife features a practical carry handle at the center for easier transportation on land.
When it comes to performance, this board is perfect for recreational paddling, but you won’t be winning any speed contest with it. However, it is still perhaps the best entry-level all-round inflatable stand up paddle board thanks to its smooth design, lifting front and triple fin navigation system.
Packaging is indeed an advantage for the board at hand since it consists of a coiled ankle cuff, an oar, a high-pressure hand pump and a convenient storage bag that can fit all of the items on this list plus the board.
#4- Solstice Swimline Bali
Solstice Swimline Bali is one of the boards that had to go through a spiral of discussions as to whether it should be on this list or not but we ended up agreeing on adding it since it is still under the 500 bucks threshold and because it is such a well-received board.
Indeed, the Solstice is one of the top-rated inflatable paddle boards in the market. Nonetheless, behind those 5-star ratings reside a number of pull factors.
Starting at the base of the board, the Solstice measures a steady 10 feet 8 inches in length which is capable of catering for most paddlers, 30.5 inches in width which grants you more space as a paddler to move around comfortably and balance out the board and a shy 4 inches in thickness which could have been better to say the least.
The impact of thickness on the quality of an iSUP is inevitable and that might just push back this board on the list of the best cheap paddle boards. Nevertheless, the board is still made out of the toughest PVC material. Then, it is further strengthened via an industrial double end drop stitch construction that pulls this board together, making it virtually indestructible. Nonetheless, it is important to respect the weight limit – 250 pounds – in order to avoid the board getting submerged at the center under excessive weight.
From that, features are the second interest checkpoint for paddlers since it literally defines the board. Hence, the features of the Solstice make it one hell of a paddle board.
Starting at the surface, the board features a gigantic gripping pad that will keep you in charge and improve your command. Also, the board exhibits a number of D-rings: 4 rings on the nose making a great cargo net and one by the tail for ankle leash attachment. Eventually, the Solstice also comes with a central carry handle to make it easier for you to transport it individually out of water.
Performance-wise, this board might not cost an arm and a leg, but it is still a solid recreational iSUP. In fact, the Solstice is capable of competing with higher-priced boards easily thanks to its slick design, lifting nose that reduces resistance and solid navigation system.
Finally, no board is complete without an adequate package which explains why this board comes with a high-pressure hand pump, a removable fin, and a carry bag that fits the deflated board easily.
#5- HydroForce White Cap
There is obviously a difference between a brand such as Tower Paddle Boards and HydroForce since they don’t stand at the same level but when talking about boards individually, the WhiteCap becomes a vicious rival.
This might be a cheap inflatable paddle board but it is still one of the bestselling iSUPs on Amazon and one which accumulated almost no negative ratings because the WhiteCap is a minimalistic board with a purpose.
Accordingly, the board at hand measures exactly 10 feet in length which is the perfect size for adult, young adult, and teenage paddlers, 32 inches in width to keep it stable and well balanced no matter the environment but unfortunately it stands similar to the previous board on this list with only 4 inches in thickness which is one of the board’s weaknesses.
Thickness does affect the quality of the board but only in one way; you just have to really respect the 209 pounds weight limit to completely eliminate any issues with the hull.
Nevertheless, beyond that, there is almost nothing to phase this board since it is made out of military-grade PVC which can be found in zodiac boats and reinforced by an industrial double end drop-stitch construction, making the WhiteCap indestructible.
There is a lot to look for on this board but some of its most practical features take away the spotlight so easily. Take the example of the gripping pad which covers almost the entire lower half of the board, aiding you to remain stable and giving you a better command. Also, the board comes with a cargo net that can be used to transport anything from your fishing gear to your paddle. Then, there is the foot stop for better use of the kayak seat.
As far as performance goes, it must be noted that this board is primarily designed with a beginner in mind and that means that it is not exactly developed to race but more so to provide a comfortable experience for beginners. Nevertheless, this board is still equipped with the hull and navigation tools that make it adequately responsive and great at tracking straight.
As for the package, this board comes with an aluminum oar, a high-pressure pump, a kayak seat, and a travel bag to carry all of the above in addition to the deflated board.
#6- Vilano Journey
There is no doubt that Vilano is a well-known brand, but it is not exactly known for its low-priced paddle boards. Indeed, this is a very proliferated brand in various domains but it especially excelled at making bikes. So, how much of that expertise have they transferred to Vilano SUPs? Well, enough.
Indeed, the Vilano Journey is one of the brand’s proudest addition to the market and one which was apparently largely embraced by paddlers all around the world. The board is not only reasonably priced but it’s also reputable and that entails a lot of things.
Starting at the most important part of the board, the Vilano Journey measures a solid 9 feet 9 inches in length that is capable of catering for teenagers and young adults, 30 inches in width which grants you that extra stability you need and a satisfying 5 inches in thickness.
The board is not only well designed in terms of dimensions but it’s also well built. In fact, the Vilano Journey is made out of industrial-grade PVC which is one of the toughest materials out there and it’s even further fortified via an industrial drop stitch construction, sealing all seams shut.
The main features of the Vilano Journey don’t differ much of any cheap stand up paddle board which means it comes with the stretched-out gripping pad, enhancing stability and command. Also, it’s enhanced via a number of D-rings that are scattered all over the board to serve as a cargo net, a shoulder strap or even a kayak seat installation. The board also comes with a nifty carry handle at its center to help you carry the board on land individually.
Concerning performance, the Vilano Journey is still considered to be a recreational board, which makes it a solid entry-level board. However, the board is also sharp enough to perform nicely within most circumstances and that includes white water. The Journey’s performance stems from the slim-fit hull, the lifting nose, and the large central fin.
As far as packaging goes, this board comes with a high-pressure pump with an integrated pressure gauge, a 3 piece aluminum paddle, a removable carry strap, and a backpack carry bag.
#7- Aqua Marina Perspective
An Aqua Marina board has definitely been coming because there simply cannot be a top 10 list of the best iSUPs without including one of the brands. This might sound a little bit bias but in truth, it’s actually far from that.
In fact, the amount of boards that this company has made is almost annoying because they literally made a board for everyone out there. However, today our focus is on the Perspective iSUP and what makes it one of the best cheap inflatable paddle boards for first-time paddlers.
The Aqua Marina Perspective is not your regular everyday paddle board since it measures 9 feet 8 inches in length which is more than enough for paddlers of pretty much all sizes, 38 inches in width that can be mainly attributed to the beginner-friendly side floaters and a humble 4 inches in thickness as usual.
Now, Aqua Marina boards may not be known for being expensive but they are still impressively sturdy. Hence, the Perspective is made out of strong PVC layers which is the same stuff that zodiacs and bulletproof vests are made of. However, it doesn’t stop there as the board is even further fortified via an industrial drop stitch construction that keeps it tight and robust.
Feature-wise, the Perspective really stands out because of the separate air chambers that grant it almost unshaken stability, which is great for beginners. Also, the board reserves all the good features found on every other board on this list. So, from the cargo net to the central carry handle, the Perspective has it all and that makes it a spotlight-worthy beginner inflatable stand up paddle board.
Concerning its performance, it is clear that this Aqua Marina iSUP isn’t exactly made for competitive paddling and especially with the extra chambers. Nevertheless, it is still a cleverly designed board with a fit hull, lifting the nose, and large tail which is everything you’ll need to use this board pretty much in any environment. This board screams stability thanks to its extra-side chambers.
Last but definitely not least, the Perspective comes within a wholesome package that includes a high-pressure hand pump with gauge, a central removable fin, and a backpack carry bag to help you carry all of that + the deflated board.
#8- Z-Ray X1
There are several versions of Zray inflatable paddle boards out there, but this one has got to be the best cheap paddle board they have to offer.
Indeed, the board at hand is one of the company’s leading iSUPs due to its many advantages over your standard hardboard.
Starting at the most critical aspect about any board, the Zray X1 measures a well-balanced 9 feet 9 inches in length, a confident 30 inches in width that should keep the board as stable as possible in most conditions and a very much appreciated 6 inches in thickness which will give this board the extra strength and rigidity it needs to face the toughest obstacles.
In that respect, the quality of any inflatable paddle board is strictly embedded in its thickness but that isn’t everything that makes this board as tough as it is. Indeed, the Zray X1 at hand is made of military-grade PVC material which is both tough and flexible but still weak if not for the industrial drop stitch finish that keeps the board perfectly together.
Features are a key concept in selling inflatable paddle boards and for an inflatable stand up paddle board, it becomes necessary. Hence, the board at hand comes with a beautiful design topped with a gripping pad that will grant you better balance and command. Also, the Zray X1 is hooked with a cargo net accessory that can be used to transport anything from your sandals to your camcorder. Moreover, the board also comes with a base for a kayak seat, making this board even more versatile. Lastly, this Zray also features a central carry handle to help you carry the board individually on land.
The Zray X1 is thus a solid recreational board that is designed with a beginner in mind. However, that doesn’t mean that it will be lame. Absolutely not, the Zray X1 is a fine machine, designed to cut through the water nicely thanks to its round smooth edges, its wide balanced tail, and its dependable navigation system.
Finally, no board is complete without a package which is why this one comes with a kayak seat, a backpack carry bag, a high-pressure hand pump, and a lightweight robust paddle.
#9- Peak 10’6″ All-Around
Well, it’s about time we feature a Peak on this list since it is one of the best cheap paddle boards on Amazon. Well, not exactly the cheapest but the Peak all-around iSUP is definitely a solid pick.
Indeed, this is a board with world-class specs and one which you’ll never regret buying. Hence, the Peak all-around iSUP measures a solid 10 feet 6 inches in length which caters for most paddlers out there, 31 inches in width that will make the board more stable and roomy, and 6 inches in thickness which is absolutely one of the best things about this board since it doubles its durability and ability to take on extra weight.
The weight limit on this board is 300 pounds and that has been accomplished through various elements. First, obviously, thickness plays a major role in the board’s ability to cater to larger paddlers. However, the Peak all-around iSUP is also fortified via a military-grade PVC base which makes this board a great inflatable paddle board. Moreover, the board is further enhanced via an industrial drop stitch construction which perfectly seals all seams, making it virtually indestructible.
As for features, there is no denying that this is a great inflatable paddle board since it comes with a powerful gripping pad that will improve your stability and grant you better command on the board. Also, the board features an advanced cargo net consisting of 6 D-rings which is capable of transporting anything from a paddle to a lunch box. Moreover, the Peak also exhibits a central carry handle to enable you to carry the board individually whenever needed.
Performance-wise, the Peak all-around iSUP is definitely at the top of this list since it is built to do a lot more than a normal recreational board can. Hence, the board is equipped with all the necessities to cut smoothly through the water and manoeuver fluently. The Peak all-around iSUP has the smoothest hull, round less resisting edges, and a central fin navigation system that contributes to make this board a solid performer.
Lastly, the Peak all-around iSUP comes with a healthy package that includes all you’ll need to maintain this board, starting at the robust lightweight paddle, the ankle leash, the high-pressure hand pump, the removable fin, and the carry bag backpack.
#10- ISLE 10’4″ Lotus
Finally, we wrap up this list with nothing other than an Isle iSUP. We just could not end this review without including this board because it’s one of the best boards on Amazon period. However, that doesn’t mean that it would be expensive.
The ISLE Lotus is a high-quality board with the price of a standard inflatable SUP. Hence, the board measures a promising 10 feet 4 inches which is more than enough for teenagers, young adults, and adults alike, 31 inches in width which will bring you extra stability and room to move around comfortably on the board, and 6 inches in thickness which is exactly what you should expect from a world-class board.
The board’s quality clearly depends a lot on its thickness since boards that measure anywhere less than 4 inches are far more likely to bend at the center under excessive weight. However, the Isle at hand depends a lot more on its multi-layered military-grade PVC hull.
Also, the ISLE Airtech Yoga iSUP is even made tougher via an industrial double end drop stitch construction that glues the body together perfectly, leaving no room for accidents.
Features are definitely the best part about inflatable paddle boards in general but people never expect anything big out of a cheaply priced iSUP which is why the ISLE decided to prove them wrong.
Hence, the board at hand features a premium gripping pad that will make it so much easier for you to stay balanced and control the board. Also, the board features a discreet cargo net to maintain that peaceful Yoga purpose that the board conveys. Then, there are a few rings on the side which can be used to carry the board but it’d be more effective to do it using the central carry handle especially if you’re alone.
Performance-wise, the Isle does not slay since it’s a recreational board that is designed with yoga lovers in mind. Now, the board might not be a racing machine but it will definitely grant you the stability and serenity you’ll need to practice meditation, yoga, or even workout on board which is all thanks to its smooth stable hull, its wide tail, and tracking specialist triple fin navigation.
As for packaging, you can expect the Yoga Isle to come with a paddle, a high-pressure hand pump, a carry bag, and a one year warranty.
