Best Inflatable Paddle Board for Ocean

The ocean which covers 70% of our beloved Earth is a sure dream paddling destination. Can you imagine the remaining 1% are lakes, bays and rivers that are so small compared to the vast ocean?

One must reach a certain level of competence in paddle boarding before realizing one bucket list entry such as SUP paddle boarding in the ocean. You should be accustomed and very familiar with your board. You really have mastered and know your way around your paddle board!

There are still other things that should be known and skills you should possess before finally embarking on the great ocean adventures of your lifetime.

What should I know about the ocean?

Being the largest body of water in our planet, the ocean can be so challenging. It’s full of mysteries in those deep water. The water can be calm one moment, and temperamental the next minute. There are risks and precautions should be taken. Ocean SUP paddling requires more power, stamina, and mastery of balancing and steering on your board.

In the ocean, one will be exposed to currents, under currents, tides, and ripples. A lot of information and knowledge should be gained like: weather conditions, weather forecasts, low and high tides time, and wind conditions as well. Your safety is always the priority!  Let us show you the best inflatable paddle board for ocean that will make your paddle boarding in the ocean worthwhile, fun and safe.

How do I prepare to go on SUP paddling on the ocean?

Aside from being ready and competent with your board, you must also be ready physically.

There are more preparatory guidelines you should put into practice:

• Have your safety gears ready like a life vest, whistle, flashlight and a cell phone with a power bank. The most important is a life vest. Falling off the board is unavoidable. Keep yourself covered at all times as to avoid dangers.

• Download an application on your phone about the weather and tides and currents most probable times. They say, the water in the ocean is calm in the morning. But it can be unpredictable too and suddenly shift into another state. It’s better to be always be prepared at all times.

• And definitely a must is that you know how to swim. With that you have a sense of security. You will need your swimming skills too in going in and out of your board.

• Before going on a long-distance ocean paddling, set a time to feel the water first. Feel your way through the tides and currents. Find a spot that isn’t crowded or busy with people. This will be better since you will not get in the way of other paddlers.

What should I look for in an inflatable paddle board for the ocean?

Every paddle board of any size and shapes serves different functions as well as reasons. In finding the right board for ocean paddling one must look for these characteristics.

1. Nose - There are two types: displacement hulls, and planing hulls. The planing nose is recommended for flat water. It’s wider and more surface areas. Planing noses are good for better stability, drag, and it’s a longer board. Though they are fast nor very responsive.

As for the displacement hulls it’s more pointed and easier to maneuver, has better speed, stability, drag, and gliding performance. This one is highly recommended for open-ocean paddling.

2. Tails - Tails are very important accessories for the boards to run well. Depending on the size of the surface, the best fit will be matched to this. The guiding principle is, the fuller the tail, the faster you can get. The narrower the board, the easier it is to navigate and maneuver it.

Here are the tails that are compatible for your paddling needs:

1. Small Waves: A flatly thinner tail would be good for flat water. A tail that is a little bit fuller are good for big waves. This tail will help you maneuver with ease and at the same time keeping your speed limit.

2. Big Waves: If you want to conquer and paddle the bigger waves then you need a high performing tail.

3. Flat Water and Racing: Tails with greater surfaces area are best for flat water and racing.

4. Rocker Line: It is not so popular component of the paddle board. The rocker line actually influences the speed and agility of the paddleboard. The thinner the board is the faster it will go. Another important thing to know is the more arched the board is the better navigation it has. Plus the more emphasize the rocker line is the better it performs in surfing.

They are very influential in having a very good ocean paddling experience.

5. Rails: By just mere looking at the rails of a stand up paddle board you can tell what type of water it was meant for. You can find the rails by merely looking at the area where you stand in the board. Is it thick and rectangular? Thin and less in thickness? Or in the middle ground?

The thinner the rail, the better you are able to have authority on the surf. It increases the performance and maneuverability of the board while it decreases the speed and volume. If stand up surfing on a paddleboard appeals to you, this is the perfect rail for you!

A rectangular rail gives more stability and best for beginners. By using a thicker rail, the volume and the glide gets better. This is especially perfect for SUP touring or SUP racing on an ocean.

This inflatable SUP board reviews will aid you choose the best inflatable SUP for the ocean.

Let’s go to the Best Inflatable Paddle Board for the Ocean:

1. HALA CARBON PLAYA Inflatable SUP

This amazing board is every SUP ocean paddler and surfer wish come true! It’s a favorite ocean board. What makes it stand-out it’s a high performing board with carbon hybrid inflatable construction. That sounds pretty neat! A board that never fails to amaze. It allows the rider to catch those waves with so much grace. It’s a high quality board and it shows. It’s expensive but you will be always grateful you purchased it. The dimensions of the board are 10’ 11” in length, 30” in width and 4.75” in thickness. It weighs only 27 lbs. This top notch board include these exclusive accessories: bundled pumped up SUP gear pack with Earth river SUP gauge, straps, float, phone case, 5L dry bag, & Pumped Up SUP Sticker.

Image source: halagear.com

Pros:

• Made from high-quality material and it shows
• Rider can paddle comfortably for a cruise, as well as catch some waves. 
• It can handle the waves better
• Has a great length
• Has a streamlined design that is great for gaining speed in the ocean
• Has a rocker that makes it easy into the waves. 
• Super lightweight
• Easy to transport.
• Simply an amazing board

Cons:

• There is no negative feedback as of today with regards to this board.

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

This Thurso Surf SUP is another winner! It boasts as having the strongest inflatable stand up paddle board structure having a double layer construction with triple/quad military grade PVC coatings on its deck and its sides. This makes the board lightweight, extremely durable, and can perform as the hardboard

It has an innovative feature that it’s the original to combine the design elements of an all-around and touring board into just this board. The positive outcome is the excellent stability and incomparable tracking. This board is good for all skill levels. To complete the package, it comes with top of the line accessories such as: carbon shaft paddle, 3 removable fins, allowing two different set-ups, inflatable stand up paddle board pump to inflate and deflate the board, SUP leash, waterproof cellphone holder, cooler bag that can hold 10 beverages and it’s waterproof too, and a backpack. The pros and cons of the thursosurf in this thursosurf inflatable reviews will widen your perspective with regards to this board. Know its good and bad points altogether and you can decide.

Image source: thursosurf.com

Pros: 

• Super light carbon fiber shaft paddle that floats
• The cooler bag is of excellent quality and has plenty of room for food and drinks
• The pump is heavy duty and has single and dual action modes 
•  Nice coiled leash and a waterproof cellphone holder.
• The removable fins are made from heavy duty plastic and feel very solid
• The deck pad has a very good gripping functions. It is not slippery
• 3 Fins for much better tracking than a single fin board
• Bullet proof construction
• Great design

Cons:

• Some paddles could break easily, but they had improved it now.
• Manual pump can be exhausting

3. Peak Expedition Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Another fantastic board that can claim to be built for exploration. A special feature is a hybrid nose for fishing, touring, snorkelling, fishing, and recreational and cruise paddling in any weather condition. It is also 35 lbs lighter and just weigh 18 lbs. The wider stance ensures a stable and sturdy stand up paddleboard. Comes with a soft EVA deck to make it a comfortable ride. It has a 350 lb. weight capacity.

You will be ready to surf anytime with this ideal board for all water conditions and levels of skill. To complete the pack, it has the following: paddle, coil leash, high pressure pump, fin, and waterproof phone case; all fits in the included carry back pack. Definitely a tough board that is safe from being punctured, damaged, or bent. These add-ons really make it all worthwhile: a lightweight design with nose, a tail carry handle for easy mobility, front and back bungee cord that secures your things on-board.

Made from 6” thick military grade PVC. This board comes in two sizes, 10' 6"or 11' long, 32" in width.

Image source: peakpaddleboards.com

Pros:

• Easy to inflate, especially with a compressor
• Tracks greatly 
• This board has good buoyancy and stays above the water line with no problem.
• Super stable
• Fast
• Rigid
• The color and design are just enticing and beautiful
• There are two bungee areas and lots of storage
• Has a nose handle and the standard handle in the middle
• Standing area has a continuous sheet of a coarse foam
• The paddle is very long
• The backpack is huge, nice, and very well made

Cons:

• The paddle has the tendency to break easily
• The deck pad can come off easily

4. Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The fourth premium board on the list that is made from the highest military grade material. Making it one of the most durable boards in the market today. The extra wide design makes it awesome for any skill levels plus it can be used in the ocean or any fresh-water lakes and rivers. It measures 10'5" long, 32" wide and 6" thick! Has a maximum weight limit of 275 lbs. Also has a premium package that contains: a paddle that is a premium alloy paddle that floats, a leash, pump, waterproof cell and key bag and a premium backpack.

Image source: Amazon

Pros:

• It’s sturdy and stable.
• still comfortable enough to stay standing
• The air pump works good
• The dry bag is surprisingly really good.
• Bungee cords are great. 6 points instead of 4 where most of all other SUP I saw they had.
• Leash works great.

Cons:

• No instruction manual
• Pumping air manually can be challenging

5. GILI Adventure Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Tagged as the ultimate paddle board for adventure. It measures 11’ x 32” x 6”. Purposely built for exploring, trekking, and portability. Explore hard to reach lakes, vast ocean, and never been too places with this perfect touring Inflatable. Has 16 D-Rings and front and rear bungees to carry all of your stuff. It offers an advanced fusion construction that has a dual layer. The fusion innovation makes this board extra durable, ultra-light. What more? It’s also laminated using a machine ensuring of being free from irregularities. The complete line-up of inclusions is: hybrid carbon fiber paddle, GILI inflatable backpack, GILI 2-Stage Hand Pump, GILI 10’ coiled leash, and the GILI snap-in center fin. Everything you need to start hitting the water!

Image source: gilisports.com

Pros:

• Very cool design
• The board is super stable
• It can go through the water with ease with the pointed nose
• Has a dual bungee system that is great
• Has a soft traction pad that’s great and super comfortable.
• Board also has a ton of d-rings for external mounts
• It’s very light and stiff.
• Does everything well in the ocean

Cons:

• Pumping air manually can be tiring

6. Imagine Icon XLT Inflatable SUP Paddleboard

This Image stand up paddle board has these features: XLT construction, full deck diamond groove EVA pad and a slide in fin. The compressor icon has a perfect all-around design that practically do everything. The Icon is a confidence boosting feature for flat-water and ocean paddling with its abundance in volume and width that adds to the stability and rigidity of the board. Can also work well in Surfing. The inflatable is offered in three sizes, 11', 10'2", 9'6" and in DLX and LTE construction. The 11' LTE has Imagine's exclusive windsurf mounting system to allow you to paddle board in any given condition.

Image source: imaginesurf.com

Pros:

• The pump is easy to use 
• The bag is great and it holds the rolled up board pretty well
• The pump is very nice.
• It’s so easy to inflate
• Much easier to transport 
• Made from XLT Construction
• Has a full deck of diamond groove EVA pad
• Has an easy slide in fin
• Includes a single cargo bungee system
• Has rear D-Ring
• Comes with a Kalama performance design
• Durable with a laminated PVC drop stitch core
• Constructed using the drop stitch technology
• Has PVC Tarpaulin Rail
• Includes a PVC Rail Tape

Cons:

• Has only one fin

7. Advanced Elements Hula Inflatable Paddle Board

This advance elements inflatable board is so easy to unfold, inflate and hop into the water in a jiffy. The Hula 11 Inflatable SUP is made of high-pressure drop-stitch material. It has a double layer of heavy duty PVC Tarpaulin for that very stiff performance and supreme durability. The deck of the board has a large foam traction pad. Other features include: 7 d-rings for gear tie down, optional kayak seat attachment, and leash attachment. This iSUP is ideal for paddling, surfing, and kayaking. The following are the accessories that are inclusive: a pump with pressure gauge, hi-quality duffel bag, repair kit, valve adaptor and 3 removable tracking fins.

Image source: advancedelements.com

Pros:

• It is extremely portable
• Stable
• Made of high quality materials
• It’s very easy to inflate with included pump
• Has 7 stainless steel d-rings for the gears safety
• A seat can be bought and installed to convert it into a kayak
• Has a raised board tip increases performance
• Comes with a large traction foam area for improved grip and comfort
• Double layer outer skin for superior durability
• Lightweight
• Compact 
• Durable
• Includes a high quality duffel bag

Cons

• Doesn’t include a paddle
• It has no handles to take out the board from the water or to carry it around
• The Hula 11 is not for larger paddlers

8. Aqua Marina Drift Fishing Paddle Board

The Aqua Marina Drift Fishing is definitely one of the best inflatable SUP for fishing.  It has been made and designed especially for SUP fishing. It has a double-sided rail design outline to ensure maximum stability as paddle through the waters. There are two fishing rod holders to keep everything in order and place while you’re busy fishing. It also comes with a removable cooler box.

This inflatable is a super stiff and durable board and you will have no qualms while fishing. The entire deck is covered with a traction pad for you to be comfortable and steady. In addition to all these, it includes the following:  Kool fishing cooler with high back seat, bait well and storage boxes, elastic bungee cords for securing cargo, fishing rod-holders on both sides, independent side chambers for safety and stability, 7 stainless steel D-rings; 4 on the nose, 2 in the center for attaching cooler box and 1 for safety leash, detachable centre fin, paddle holder, carry bag and pump. The boards dimension is 10’10” long, 38” in width and 6” in thickness. It can accommodate up to 287 lbs. on board.

Image source: aquamarina.com

Pros:

• Thick, tough and sturdy
• Independent side chambers enhance balance
• Includes a cooler in the package
• Comes with carry bag and pump
• High back seat on the cooler for you to sit comfortably
• Made from durable high quality PVC 

Cons:

• Doesn’t include a paddle in the package since 2019

PRO Tips for Stand Up Paddle Board Fishing

1. Always have and bring a cooler and a gearbox – These are two very important and essential gear components that’s needed for SUP fishing. The cooler gives you a place to store your drinks, food and fish. It can also be used as a seat when you’re tired and can also be used to stand on it to get higher and see what’s ahead. The gearbox allows you to keep all your things, tackle and other gear in a safe dry place.

2. You should start out a fishing structure – One of the most challenging things about SUP fishing is for you to try to keep yourself in the right optimal position to be able catch fish. An expert fishing paddler suggests that you need to introduce yourself to SUP fishing by fishing structure like docks and oyster beds. By doing so, you don’t have to worry anymore about you constantly shifting your board’s position like you would if you were sight fishing on the flats.

3. You need to bring an anchor –This is very important in SUP fishing. Having an anchor gives you the freedom to stop quickly and gently on the water. You stay afloat steadily on your chosen spot.

4. Use artificial baits, they are better than live bait –Bringing live baits with you is more inconvenient and heavier. The artificial baits are much easier to transport and don’t pose much maintenance while on the water. 

5. Find the right board – You need to have a big board which is enough to support your weight and it needs to be specifically made for SUP fishing. 

Some SUP board inflatable ones don’t come with certain accessories and that you will need to buy separately. Also, in ocean paddling you might be needing some additional accessories for additional convenience and comfort for you. Here are some of them.

Ocean & Earth Unisex Pro Comp One Piece Leash

At Ocean & Earth they sell surfboard leashes that you can trust. They have developed some of the strongest surfboard leashes in the world and they continue to improve in their line-up range year after year.  This model has the following features:  6'0" pro comp leash, 28mm padded strap, double swivel, detachable rail-saver, Ocean and Earth's patented one piece moulded cord creating the world's strongest leash, new thinner textured neoprene with bound edge padded strap. texture helps secure position on ankle,  highest grade urethane, 5mm cord diameter,  encapsulated dual anchor, spin free swivel for tangle free surfing,  bright safety red release tab for visibility, tough 12mm wide webbing and it’s lime in color.

Explore Planet Earth Backpack

Explore Planet Earth is becoming more well-known now is a company based in Australia. They’ve been making backpacks and rucksacks for quite a while now.

Their reputation of being pretty good is spreading and reaching a lot of people.

The rucksack fabric durability is because their bags are made from Polytech 500 fabric.

It’s pretty tough and solid can withstand an abusive usage. The rucksack also comes with a separate rain-cover which is stored in a bag within the hood to add to the water proofing in case it pisses down rain from a great height. So the bottom line is: if you’re after a rucksack that doesn’t cost a truckload of money but will get the job done without a fuss and last you a while, the Carina Rucksack from Explore Planet Earth should be considered as an option.

PUNT SURF Paddle Board SUP Traction Pad with 3M Adhesive

Not all stand up paddle boards have deck pad sheet. Good thing there are a lot of them available in the market known as a traction pad. One of them is the PUNT SURF paddle board traction pad that will ensure that you’ll be comfortable in your stay on your board and have a wonderful time. The soft, marine-grade EVA foam takes the stress off the feet and the lower back thus it gives an excellent comfortable and longer paddling sessions. The foam's diamond grooves are designed to provide maximum grip and to quickly drain away the water.

The deck pad fits all and it’s a 12-piece pad fits all SUPs. For the narrower boards, simply remove the center strips. It will only take minutes to apply and you’re guaranteed that it will stick forever on your board. It only has the best 3M peel & stick adhesive on all their products. 

This deck traction pad will feel much better on your feet and knees. It has the right thickness and it’s not too thick and it does not appear to absorb excessive water weight. 

BIC Sport Stand Up Paddleboard Deck Bag

A paddle board deck bag will be very useful to every paddler anywhere. This BIC Sport Stand Up Paddleboard Deck Bag adds secure storage to your SUP. It can be attached to any SUP by using a built-in attachment points of a paddle board or by utilizing the BIC Sport's SUP Deck Attachment Kit. One thing good about it is it’s a zippered storage bag that keeps your all your valuables and essentials securely stored with you on the deck.

It does take some expected fiddling to attach the four Velcro anchor points on the flip side but it also means there is zero chance of the bag coming loose even when fully loaded.

Comes with bungee cords on top of the bag that is SUPER HANDY as you can use that to strap down your other things along with a handful of snacks.

It also has an internal mini bag that hangs down inside the roof of the bag at the front opening just the right size for a phone, cash, etc. 

Stand Up Paddle Board Deck Bag with Dry Waterproof Insert

Another paddle board deck bag that would be a welcome addition to any inflatable paddle board. This deck bag with dry waterproof has a 4-point velcro connectors to secure bag to any paddle board or kayak that has bungee or plugs, dry insert for keeping electronics or non-water proof items dry and a shoulder strap pulls out from pocket for easy off board transportation.

This Paddle North Deck Bag with dry insert that can be attached to any existing plug or bungee system of SUP brand. The bag has a shoulder strap that allows for an easy and convenient transportability. It has a great size and the shoulder strap for easy carrying to and from the water.

It could get a little wet inside, but it comes with a dry bag for just that reason. You will love the quality of this bag. 

NorthShore SUP Cooler with Attachment System

A paddle board cooler mount and a cooler will be very useful for a lot of paddle boarding trips and expedition. Especially for longer stand up paddling in the ocean while fishing, touring or even for recreational paddling. This Nortshore SUP cooler comes with an attachment system. The nylon cooler easily mounts to the deck with NSI’s deck mount attachment system with 2 rubber plates with spectra loop. Included is an over the shoulder strap for off-board carrying convenience and a male/female buckles with their webbing. The large cooler can fit 24 cans for your enjoyable paddling experience. It even includes a bottle opener. This is an ideal stand up paddle board bag if your package doesn’t include one.

Start to glide over the water on your stable SUP board, and find out for yourself why it’s a fun sport that is continuously growing and becoming more popular. Feel those waves under your board as you paddle by the oceans and enjoy all the panoramic views out there. Whether you want to do it recreationally, do some SUP yoga or explore the gorgeous oceans anywhere and everywhere, find the right and best inflatable stand up paddle board for your needs.

These 8 exceptional inflatable paddle board are guaranteed and tested to be awesome for the ocean. They are the best inflatable stand up paddle boards that are great especially in the ocean. Mind you, and it would be really a feast to have one of these boards that will truly be a very wise decision and investment.

The right board will make the difference for you to make the most out of your ocean paddling adventures, Carpe Diem!