The Complete Guide to Blow Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boarding also known as SUP is not just a fad, it’s here to stay for good! SUP is a very good watersport to indulge in to the fullest. There are paddle boards available like the traditional hard boards made from epoxy or fiberglass and a popular one is the iSUP, inflatable stand up paddle board. Also known with the moniker, blow up paddle board! 

From beginners or those wanting to take SUP as a sport, an inflatable paddle board is a very ideal choice. There are a lot of advantages of using a blow up paddle board.

What is a blow up paddle board or iSUP?

A blow up paddle board is made from high quality PVC. The board’s upper and lower part are connected through drop stitches. Your iSUP will come with a pump hence the moniker blow up paddle board. Air needs to be pumped in for the board to transform into its shape.

There are fibers that will keep the board from bursting like a balloon. Just like any inflatable thing, the more air that is pumped in, the better! It will make it stiffer and to its fullest shape. They say that the better the quality of the PVC, the more stiffer it gets.

Where can a blow up paddle board be used?

Inflatables have been used for the longest time. It was mainly used for river with rapids. Also as an emergency tool for any transportation that can have emergency situations like in a ship, airplane and boats.

Nowadays with anything being possible because of technology, blow up paddle boards or iSUP’s can be used not only in rivers but in flatwater, beaches, oceans and lakes as well. You can race, surf, cruise, and do all fun-filled water activities.

Like its solid board counterpart. Here’s a detailed rundown of the common uses of an inflatable paddle board.

For the all-around iSUP, they are very good for beginners. There are a lot of stand up paddling that one can do. It’s great for simple and easy paddling that’s not complicated. 

You can use an iSUP to surf. The best inflatables for this have a narrow tail, and a rounder nose that makes it stable on those waves.  It usually has more fins to gain better control and to be able to feel it’s at par with a solid board.

It can be enjoyed too for yoga. The blow ups for yoga are wider, longer, and thicker. The surface is larger that has more stability into it. They come with anti-slip traction pads suited for those yoga routines.

The inflatables used for racing is designed for speed. They are light and quick. They can easily cut through the water very easily. This boards don’t offer much stability and they are not suited for beginners in paddle boarding.

As for the inflatable fishing boards, they are spacious and are stable. You have room for your tackle, rods, and fishing gear. They offer stability and not for speeding.

For your touring activities, the best inflatable boards have great tracking and gliding properties. They can also be used for recreational racing or working out. They offer great paddling features to step up. 

There are also inflatables that are very good for kids. They are usually smaller and lighter and easier to maneuver for kids. They come with adjustable paddles and usually measures from 5-6 feet long.

What is the step to step procedure to inflate and deflate my blow up paddle board?

As a proud owner or would be owner of a blow up paddle board you have to know how to inflate and deflate it. This is a step to step guide to how to do it properly. Don’t worry as you go along, you’ll get the hang out of it!

How to inflate your blow up paddle board

One pretty neat advantage of an iSUP is it very convenient to bring anywhere. It’s easier to transport because it’s in its deflated state and you can inflate it as soon as you reach your paddling destination.

The beginner usually use the hand pump. As soon as they realize it can pose some kind of hassle, they level up to using an electric pump.

1. Get your board and unroll it. Check the yellow valve first.  The pin should be in the upright position. This explains that the valve is closed. Air wouldn’t be coming out as you start pumping in.

2. Set it to stop at 17 PSI if you’re using an electric pump.

3. With a hand pump, just insert and twist the hose into the valve and start pumping. This will take you around ten minutes to inflate. The gauge will only read when it reaches 7 PSI.

4. Remove the cap of your pump while nearing the desired PSI. Inflating will be easier.

5. Continue to pump until you reach 17 PSI. That is the recommended PSI.

6. Next is you need to twist off the hose of your pump.

7. Make sure to put the cap of the valve of your board. Now, you start to go!

Helpful Tip - The very good iSUP’s can cost more. Look for the one that the recommended PSI is 17. The best feel and they are the stiffest iSUP. The feel and performance will be the same as a hard board.

How to deflate my blow up paddle board

1. First clean and wash your board with fresh water. Have it dry completely.

2. The next step is to deflate by taking off the valve cap and by pushing the yellow pin. Then twist to lock so it will be open. The air should be going out by now.

3. When the air is almost all out and deflated, you can start rolling your board. The proper way is to roll from the nose to the tail. This will guarantee that all the air can come out. Keep the fins outside when you’re rolling your blow up paddleboard.

4. You can now strap it up and strap it tightly.

5. Upon proper strapping and bundling of the iSUP, you can put it back to its carrying bag.

What are the benefits of Blow Up Paddle Boards?

Blow up stand up paddle boards are gaining so much popularity nowadays. There are many reasons why. But the main reason is, it is very convenient. No more hassle in transporting them around. A hard paddle board will require you to transport it in a roof rack of your vehicle or at the back of a pick-up.  On the other hand your SUP blow up paddle board can be brought along with you even if you travel by air or by car. Renting one can be pricey too. 

Here are the benefits a stand up paddle board blow up has:

1. They are very compact and convenient

As I mentioned earlier, they can be brought along anytime. They can be inflated and deflated. It has a carry bag that you can bring along.  If you want to go paddle boarding overseas, you can do that easily and take a flight with your blow up SUP with you. Another advantage is that storage is space saving. You can store them in a closet, cabinet, and a big drawer.

2. Very lightweight 

It can be carried by one person using one arm or carry it through a backpack bag that some manufacturers package their blow up paddle boards with. It can weigh from 15-35 kilos. There are different types of carry bags that comes with it. It can be a bag with wheels, backpack, and the usual carry bag.

3. They are versatile 

The growth of the blow up paddle boards through the years is a testimony of their efficiency. One of its strong points is its versatility. They can be used by adults as well as children. Generally a lot of these boards are 6” thick. It can provide the stability needed in stand up paddle boarding. The whole family can definitely enjoy them.  They can be addictive and can be used in different water surfaces like flatwater, rivers, lakes, oceans, and beaches.

4. They are sturdy and strong

They are proven to be strong since time and memorial. We have inflatable pools, inflatable rescue boats, and inflatable bouncers. There can be some leaks or tears but they are repairable. Care should be taken into consideration in everything. If it’s taken cared off, it can last a very long time. Minor issues such as valve leaking with the simple solution of tightening it. For tears, they can be repaired through patch up jobs. One good advice is to invest in a good blow up paddle board. It will save you from weak seaming that it can eventually leak. This will save you big time from a lot of troubles.

5.  They are very rigid once they are inflated.

It can feel like a solid paddle board once it’s inflated.  It has a look of the real deal. It looks like a solid board. One great feature is the top traction pad gives a cushiony feel, and gives a softer surface for kneeling, and yoga. The traction helps in gripping too. Just remember to inflate it to the maximum recommended PSI to be able to experience its worthiness!

Blow Up Paddle Boards Pros and Con    

Let us compare the pros and cons of a blow up stand up paddle board. See why it’s gaining a huge demand it the market. It can also help you in your quest of that perfect board for you!

PROS

Easier to mobilize and to transport – No need to fret over to go out of your way to try to fit it and load it into your vehicle. No need to spend and rent a vehicle to transport it. Carrying it is easy as ABC.  A bonus is it comes with its own bag! 

You can literally bring it anywhere! – Are you flying to your dream beach getaway? You don’t have to worry. No need to skip those SUP days and miss your sport. You can bring with your blow up paddle board any part of the world! One day you can be in Bali, the next you can be in Hawaii. Your SUP adventures can be limitless and have a lot of possibilities.

Has cushion for a softer surface – It’s inevitable that everyone without exception will fall while stand-up paddling. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you fell one time or another. In that case with a blow up paddle board just in case you fall, the impact will be less. Although it’s inflatable the iSUP’s can be rigid it doesn’t have the rigidity of a fiberglass. They are especially great for children and people starting out in this sport.

Stability – Users of inflatable SUP’s can attest that they are more stable than a hard-shell board. They find it easier to learn and improve on their SUP. They found it more helpful to have a more stable ride.

Easy Storage – Very easy to store. No need for a special storage for them. Even if you don’t have a garage or storage room. They can be stored in cabinets and closets. Great for people who doesn’t have enough storage space.

Unbelievably Sturdy! – iSUP’s are built to last and very good for river paddling and those rocky oceans and beaches. A really excellent feature is that it just bounces back once it hits a rock or solid surface, unlike a solid board especially made from fiberglass. It might crash or might be knocked off. The worse is it might subside or get dented. The blow up paddle boards are pretty safe unless one purposely put a knife or pointed object through it.

Great to tag along a man’s best friend – Yes, even dogs can go paddling with you. They can sit or stand since they won’t slide unlike on a fiberglass. If you want to bring your dog with you, the iSUP is the perfect choice!

CONS

Blow Ups might be harder to maneuver - According to actual users, although they rarely have any issues in this aspect it can be not as easy to maneuver like a fiberglass one. There are a couple of blow ups that do not turn or can be maneuvered as fast as a fiberglass board. Try to look into this aspect when buying an iSUPs.

Rigidity - Even if it reaches the maximum PSI, it’s still a blow up as compared to a fiberglass or solid board. It will never be as rigid as a fiberglass board.

Pricey – Good quality blow ups can be pricey. There is a misconception that an inflatable SUP’s are cheaper than the solid boards. The price will definitely be worth it.

It can bend – To avoid this, all you need to do is to inflate the board to its proper level. This is very minor and can be avoided. You can say goodbye to the bend in the middle part of your board if you inflate correctly.

Just remember the heavier one is, the more air your board will need.

The pros outweigh the cons. The pros are very advantageous, and the cons are variables that can be adjusted or fixed.  As one avid iSUP paddler said: In my opinion they are totally worth it, and it’s my board of choice. I use them all year round and love the convenience that they offer.

That says it all!

Are Blow Up Paddle Boards good?

A large number that are into SUP for recreational and as a hobby, a blow up paddle boards are the best for them. If you’re aiming for durability, no hassles in transporting, and storage convenience then what are you waiting for? Go grab that inflatable SUP!

For a family-oriented sport activity which is also pet friendly, for cruising those lakes, rivers, oceans, and beaches, for that great performance nothing beat a blow up stand up paddle board!

Should I get a Blow Up Paddle board or not?

Inflatable SUP boards are generally longer and wider than hard boards. This makes it easy to balance. They give the comfort and stability that beginners might be needing.

An inflatable is the best board option to anyone as an introductory board to paddle boarding although there is a wide array of choices from all levels. There are awesome inflatables for experienced and expert paddlers too.

It is a fact that blow ups are a little bit larger than hard boards. They can go through all kinds of waves. It also offers stability, versatility, and it is user friendly. Paddlers who loves traveling also choose the inflatables over the hard boards. Imagine yourself paddle boarding anywhere in the world! If you are a free-spirited paddler who enjoys freedom, then the inflatable is your best bet!

Which one is better: Blow Up or Solid Paddle board?

A number of paddlers use a blow up paddle boards for rivers and if they are always on go and loves to travel. Long-time paddlers also recommend this board to someone who is a beginner. Another thing is it is also recommendable if you’re bringing your pet dog. There are a lot of heavy-duty and durable blow up paddle boards in the market today. You won’t be worrisome that they might just pop, or suffer wear, and tear in a short period of time.

On the other hand, those who wants to paddle longer distances opt for the hard boards. Paddlers reason that it’s easier to glide in the water. It is observed to be easier to use in surfing. Although a lot of blow ups are very rigid, there’s still the slight difference in a hard board.

If you intend to take surf regularly, the inflatable boards might be quite a struggle. You’ll probably feel little bumps in the water from time to time, and you might be challenged to catch the waves because it’s same thickness through-out. But theses boards do give the hard boards a very good competition since they are versatile and they can be used on flat water and on waves.

The real advantage of a blow up or inflatable is its flexibility since it has multi-use functions to paddling to flat water to surfing. This can’t be credited to a hard board that is used in surfing that has to struggle to be able to track in a straight line when used in flat water. You have greater control in inflatables.

Regardless if you get a hard board or a blow up at the end of the day, just remember don’t let the quality suffers. All SUP board is an investment you’re making. Buy only the high quality ones. Check the manufacturer, the features, and all the details. Don’t scrimp on this. It’s your safety that is at stake and also it would really save you a lot of headaches.

Paddle Board Inflatable vs Solid

Here’s a more detailed and generalized comparison between an inflatable vs a solid one. 

A solid paddle board is constructed of lightweight and durable EPS foam covered in fiberglass and epoxy, lighter carbon fiber, or plastic while an inflatable is made from durable PVC plastic.

A solid one needs ample storage space in contrast to an inflatable that can be deflated and stored easily in a cabinet or bag.

With a solid paddle board, you’ll experience a faster, smoother, more stable with less paddling pressure and effort in your part but an inflatable will give you a comfortable all less bumpy ride that is safe from punctures, dings and damages.                        

If you’re into SUP touring and racing then a solid paddle board will work well for you against an inflatable which will be best suited for you if you’re into SUP yoga and you appreciate paddling in the whitewater.

In the end, it will still up to you what you’ll pick between the two in the long run. Although most avid paddle board paddlers eventually keep and have both kinds of boards to be at their whim and use at any time.

Please do check the link here for a closer look of other options of non-inflatable paddle boards.  

How about a fiberglass paddle board? Let’s be specific and go to the nitty-gritty parts and try to compare and see how it fares against a blow-up paddle board.

Blow-Up Paddle Board vs Fiberglass

There are a lot of paddle boards to choose from especially with the sudden and steady rise of stand-up paddle boarding. There are a lot of SUPs available and can be quite confusing at times. Let us tackle the difference between a blow-up paddle board vs fiberglass paddle board. 

A fiberglass paddle board is one that is made with a foam core, and around this, there are several layers of fiberglass. The size of the board will determine its overall volume, and this will, in turn, determine the weight of people who can be accommodated on the board. Different manufacturers use different methods to construct their boards.

As mentioned earlier an inflatable is constructed using the drop-stitch technology. The inside of the board is composed of small fibers that stand up when you inflate it with air. They are designed to interconnect and interlock to achieve a feel of a solid board. These boards also has a PVC plastic layer that acts as a cushion of the board to make sure it’s shielded from any damages in case of a bumps or collisions.

In terms to their performances, it’s a hands down that the fiberglass paddleboard would top it over the inflatable one. The sole reason for this is because a fiberglass paddle board is more responsive to the waves and it is easier to control it in the water

For their prices, Inflatable SUPs will be the runaway winner since they are generally cheaper than fiberglass and other solid boards. In choosing your board though, you have to check the maximum weight capacity.

Another deciding factor is storage. Do you have enough space? Remember that storage and transportation are the other important considerations that must be thought of in a paddle board. If you don’t have ample space or room in your house, you should wisely choose an inflatable SUP. They can easily be stored by deflating and folding. During transportation, you can simply stash them in bags.

This cannot be said of fiberglass SUPs. These have to be stored in particular ample spaces and they cannot be folded or deflated. Transporting them is even more strenuous and demanding, especially if you don’t have a vehicle or you will just take public transportation.

Another basis would be can your paddle board cope up with the demands of the temperament of the water? Is it rugged enough? One pre-conceived notion and judgment among paddle boarders is that inflatable SUPs can’t last as long as fiberglass boards. This is so untrue. Inflatable SUPs are just as durable and rugged and can last for a long time. You’ll be assured that you’ll be visiting the repair shop fewer times with inflatable SUPs since they don’t easily get damaged when they bump or hit anything hard at all. This is because they are indestructibly designed with a layer of PVC plastic.

Lastly, how will it land? Inflatable SUPs are known to offer a smoother and suave landing compared to all solid fiberglass boards. As a beginner, you are likely to experience falling a couple of times as you learn how to standup paddleboard. You would be saved from hard landing and all with an inflatable one.

Here’s a more point by point comparison of an inflatable vs a fiberglass one. Weigh their pros and cons more closely.

Pros and cons of inflatable stand-up paddle boards

Pros:

• They are generally cheaper and will have a longer life span
• They are indestructible and  most likely it’s not necessary to have a lot of repairs 
• Their performance is good enough for paddlers who are interested in getting familiarized with the know how and the basics of stand-up paddle boarding
• An inflatable SUP will give you a smoother, suave and softer landing just in case you fall off your board
• Inflatable paddle boards only need to be deflated and off you go to the water
• They can be stored anywhere and no storage problems to be encountered
•  You can even bring them and travel with them anywhere including a plane ride

Cons:

• They will perform inferiorly with gusty and strong winds conditions
• You need to inflate it before you can use it
• You need a very reliable manual or electric pump to achieve the right PSI inflation 
• They are not very fast and high speed is not one of their strong asset

Pros and cons of fiberglass paddle boards

Pros:

• They can withstand the strong winds 
• They are ruggedly made and designed. 
• It can last for a long time
• You can have high speed and ride faster in these paddle boards
• No inflation and deflation are needed for this board

Cons:

• They are large and cannot be folded and they are not portable enough
• You need a lot of storage space
• Transporting them can be tedious and strenuous since it’s quite demanding to do so
• Fiberglass boards more costly and expensive than inflatables

If you’re just starting out in SUP, it’s a lot wiser to begin with an inflatable one. It will save you money and you’ll learn your basic skills and you’ll get used to the water. It would also be falling off your board with a lesser impact. Let’s face it, as a beginner you’ll experience this inevitable falling off your board! As you go along and progress, then a fiberglass paddle board will be a welcoming switch or addition to you. By this time, you’ve mastered hose moves and tricks on the board.

Inflatable vs Non inflatable

The continuing issue can be settled if you know what to want and expect in a stand up paddle board. The question will it be an inflatable vs a non-inflatable could? Will do a final round-up of this issue.

A non-inflatable have a foam core. They will have a couple of layers of fiberglass, wood, Kevlar, carbon fiber or bamboo.

A non-inflatable will be consistently be more rigid but travelling with it would also post such a challenge.

You will need a car rack and tie down tarps to do is. Traveling alone could be really trying times.

Non inflatables need a lot of space for movement, clearance and storage. It won’t be easy to maneuver it if you don’t have a larger space. It’s not enough that you have space but it should be a space where it’s not cramped.

When it comes to repairs, be ready to learn to trouble shoot and repair them. Whether you have an inflatable or non-inflatable type.

A great majority would find it hard to believe that an inflatable which you blow up can actually be stable enough on the water.  Actually they could even be more durable and stable than a non-inflatable one because inner layer made from small fibers and the outer layer that is basically a super durable hardened rubber material. It’s also where the top and the bottom layers are molded together and the rail is covered for extra support. 

What makes an inflatable in demand is because of its portability and convenience when you transport it. All you need is bag and no need to be pressured on how you will transport it.

All inflatable paddle board comes with a repair kit. Although there’s a small chance that you’ll ever get to use this kit. 

It all boils down to both types of SUP boards have their benefits and advantages It is up to you to decide which one is more realistic for your needs and expectations Better yet, get both if possible and it’s within your budget.

So, will it be an inflatable or non-inflatable stand up paddle board for you?

Here’s a more thorough article about them. Please check this link Inflatable vs Non-Inflatable Paddle Boards.

What is the best inflatable paddle boards for beginners?

The answer to this will be dependent on where you will use your paddle board. What kind of SUP activities you are inclined to do. Another will be depending on how much you weigh. There will be options that will suggest what you can choose from.

You can read more about Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Beginners.

Blow Up Paddle Board Boards Reviews:

The Best iSUP’s 

1. Tower Adventure Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

You will get your money’s worth in this all-around inflatable SUP.  This one of the most popular board. It’s highly rated and highly recommended. Reputed as one of the best boards available.

It has a maximum weight load of 350 pounds. It has exceptional rigidity to boot. It’s made from

military-grade PVC. This Tower Adventure is very durable and it comes with all the accessories in its package. The size of this blow up is 9’10”. It also comes with two year warranty.

Special Features: 

• Good for beginners and experts
• Wide with 32” width
• 6” thickness of military- grade PVC material
• Non-slip and reduces the incidence of accidents or injuries
• Very easy to maneuver, has a large single fin
• Inclusive of these accessories: 3-pc. Fiberglass Paddle, high-pressure SUP pump, high-end tower branded diamond grooved deck pad, removable center fin, a handhold strap, and a roll-up carrying strap.
• Has 2 years warranty

2. THURSO SURF Waterwalker All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board SUP

This Thursosurf blow up paddle board is highly favored for beginners. It’s 10 ½ feet long and has a width of 31 inches. It’s available in 11 feet and with the width of 32”. Made from durable military grade-PVC material and has a drop stitch construction. The package aside from the board includes: an inflation pump, a paddle that has a fiber shaft and a carry backpack with a small deck bag too.

The body surface of the board has a non-slip EVA foam for comfort as well as for soft cushioning.

It includes a leash too which is very important. Has three fins for better tracking functions. What more it’s 6 inches thick for better rigidity. It includes the guarantee that they will replace the board if it’s defective. The Thursosurf water walker 10’6” is as remarkable as can be!

Special Features:

• Perfect for beginners
• Has an upgraded paddle shaft of carbon 
• Has double-layer construction
• Three removable fins for different set-ups
• Has the best paddle made from carbon and it’s only 2 pounds
• Includes a roller backpack
• Has 2 year warranty

3. Atoll Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

This model is wider at 32 inches and is 6 inches thick.  It has a dual layered PVC that makes it stronger but still very light. It can take higher pressures hence it’s rigid for some non-stop activities. It has a military design that comes with a black paddle. Its inclusions are the following; heavy duty backpack, pump, and an iSUP repair kit. Has anti-slip properties too.

Special Features:

• Has Korean drop stitching technology
• Dual layer PVC for ultra- lightness
• Has 3rd- generation carbon adjustable paddle
• Comes with a sleek heavy-duty nylon backpack bag
• Includes a 10’ durable polyester leash
• Tri-fin design for easier tracking
• Has 2 years warranty
• Rigid

4. South Bay Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Package - 10’6 Aqua Discover ISUP

This a premium iSUP board. It’s great for all skill’s level. Extremely durable and can carry up to 350 pounds of weight on it. Made from durable layer of high-grade PVC material. Has the unique fingerprint texture IXPE for the top deck for extreme grip and comfort that is ideal for long paddle sessions. Also has a thick carry handles on the center of board, nose, & tail to make it easier to transport. Includes the complete board package with the following: 2+1 FCS Paddle Board Fin Set ,9” SUP Fin, coiled leash, 4 pieces paddles, pre-Installed bungee straps ISUP high capacity hand pump,  patch repair kit, carrying backpack with wheels, pre-installed D-rings, kayak seat, cooler, and waterproof fanny pack.

Special Features:

• Good for beginners to experienced paddlers
• Perfect for stable and easy paddle boarding, outdoor enthusiasts, and on the go explorers.
• 4 carbon fiber paddles
• 2+1 fin system
• Has an ultimate complete package
• Has a fingerprint texture that is a wax-free texture that gives a clean, long-lasting feel.
• The complete all in one adventure blow up paddle board
• Has 1 year warranty

5. YOLO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The perfect iSUP for those adventurous paddling moments. It is ultra-portable with specially designed backpack bag. Very easy to paddle and offers great stability and balance. Has a 3-fin design that allows maneuverability to be effortless. It has a non-slip deck pad that is very good for all levels. It’s constructed from high-quality marine- grade PVC material and suitable for all water conditions. It is built to last a lifetime. Comes with a complete package of everything you need in a blow up board.

Special Features:

• Great looking and worth the price
• Very rigid well handling board that stows easily
• Great quality
• Inflates and deflates easily
• Has a great traction
• Adjustable paddles with height marks on them
• Made from high grade marine PVC

The blow up boards have a lot to offer. It has multi-purpose capabilities for all those water adventure-filled activities. Once you’re on your inflatable, you feel that you’re living your life to the fullest. As they say, you only live once. The best way is to live it the best enjoyable way, out there where you feel happy, free, and one with the great water outdoor!