Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle boards under $500

Stand paddle boarding is fast becoming the front runner in the water sports arena. There’s an abundance in the variety that comes in different sizes, shapes and functions. Not only that, SUP paddleboards can be classified into price categories. They can be classified as:

• Low-range boards - Boards under $500
• Mid-range boards - Boards $500-$1000
• High-end boards -  Boards $1000-$1500
• Pro-boards - $1500 and up

What are the factors that attribute the wide range of price in paddle boards?

This will be the likely question that will pop-out in everyone’s mind. Why such a huge difference of prices in these boards whether they are solid or inflatable boards?

SUP prices are based on the following attributes:

• Size of the board - It makes sense that the bigger the board, the more time to produce it, more materials to be used and the more designs are more detailed.

• Type of the board - Each boards have their own special functions. Each function demand certain specifications that need to be met.

• Brand - More popular brands can demand more than lesser-known ones in the market.

• Quality of the board - The higher the quality, the more expensive it costs. There are materials that can cost more if the board is lightweight and can also boost a good performance. The use of more advanced technology can add to the expenses of producing these boards.

• On top of the product add-ons - These are add-ons to complete the SUP package. These accessories can also cost more because of their special features and high-caliber quality. Examples are: top of the line adjustable paddle made from very materials, backpacks, and carrying bags, fin system, leash, and more reliable pumps for the inflatables. Some paddle boards have more accessories that come with them like: phone holder, camera mount, roof rack, and some has vests included.

Customized boards will also tend to cost very high since it will be designed and made under a client’s strict specifications and guidelines.

As they also say, there are boards that belong to the low-range price bracket and yet they can be considered very good ones. The reason could be that they are produced by large companies that make bulk production thus can sell them lower. 

Don’t just buy an inflatable paddle board because it has a lot of add-ons!

Accessories can be pricey, but one of the worst things you can do is buy a board that bows or isn’t suitable for your type of activity. Although most shoppers for this guide are casual paddlers, we still want to be on the lookout for quality boards.

So how should you pick the best inflatable paddle board under 500?

Aside from the look, functions, features and price, you should purchase a paddle board that could support your weight. Always take a look at the maximum weight capacity of the board. 

Next check how thick the board is. It’s quite important since your weight when standing up on a paddle board can cause the board to bend in the middle. When the board tends to bend in the middle, it would be incredibly hard to paddle. A board should be 6” thick especially for heavier paddlers from 250 lbs. The paddle board should also be long and wide enough for you. 10' to 10' 6? long and 30? to 32? wide is a standard board. If you’ve had trouble balancing from previous paddling experience or want a board that is as stable as possible, buy a wide board that is 32? or greater in width.

A lengthy and wider board is most applicable to fishing enthusiasts who needs more for a lot of gear, yoga practitioners that needs to use more deck space, and for the taller individuals that want to sleep or lie down on top of their board. 

Lastly, you can also consider the accessories that complete the package. You can compare what the SUP package consists of and you might consider purchasing the one with the most complete line-up. The type and class of the innovative accessories can help you to decide too.

With all these covered, you can pick a SUP board that looks cool, has perfect features and fits you well.

You will for sure find a board that’s right for your weight and which is suited for the type of activity or activities you plan to take on. 

Here’s the list of the Best SUP paddle boards under $500 with reviews:

⭐ GILI Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The do-anything all-around inflatable paddle board. It’s 10' 6” in length, 31" in width, and 6” thick. The perfect combination of balance, weight, and size proportions. You will have a complete feeling of it being a hard board and not an inflatable. Great for all skill levels. Definitely durable, stable, and portable! No need to worry about those dents, dings, and damages. This includes a complete set of accessories: travel Paddle, inflatable backpack, 2-stage hand pump, 10' coiled leash, snap-in center fin. To even make it better: it has extra-large diamond traction pad, 6-Point Front Bungee for quick access to your gear, nose and center grab handle for easy transport and maneuverability. Its 9” Snap-In fin attaches quickly and easy with its ultra-secure fin box. A truly beautiful and wonderful board in every sense!

Pros:

• The pump is perfect.
• The huge fin tracks very well and being removable are a plus 
• Deflating and packing up the board are quick and easy
• There is a front handle, which sounds minor, but it is a huge deal in transporting the board. 
• I was impressed with the quality of the board,
• The board and accessories are all of good quality
• This board comes in at 19 lbs, which was a big selling point for me
• This paddle board is an incredibly affordable 
• The board is very sturdy

Cons:

• The handle doesn't lay perfectly flat, so if you lay on the board there's an uneven surface 

• Amazon

⭐ Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

This premium paddle board is one great all-around board for all skill levels.  Boards are 10’ 5” in length, 32” in width, and 6” in thickness. It has a maximum weight limit of 275 lbs. Dubbed as the most durable lightweight board on the market. This extra-wide board can be used almost all water conditions like the ocean, freshwater lakes, and rivers. The package comes with: 

Pros:

• It’s sturdy and stable. 
• The three fins system is very good
• So comfortable to stay standing and kneeling down is even better on the board
• The air pump works efficiently
• It comes with two ‘rubber rings’ that goes onto the air socket.
• The dry bag is really good.
• The paddle is adjustable and comfortable
• The backpack is actually impressive
• Bungee cords are great. It 6 points instead of 4 where most other boards have
• Leash is wonderful

Cons:

• No instruction manual included
• Pumping the air manually can be quite a challenge

• Amazon

⭐ ANCHEER Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Fantastic and unbelievable price for this gem! This board has the following dimensions: 10' in length, 30” in width, and 6” in thickness. Has a maximum load of 240 lbs, It only weighs 17 lbs. Super light!  Only takes 5 minutes to inflate and 3 minutes to deflate. It’s durable and made from thick military grade PVC and 0.9 mm military PVC plus drop stitch inner construction. It can maintain its rigidity and reliability. Be worry free from those dings, dents, and damages. A fun all-around board that has a 3-fins system under it. Good for all levels. Good for paddling, cruising, yoga, fishing, and recreational paddling in flatwater. Comes with, 3 piece paddles, coil leash, detachable center fin, backpack, common hand pump, and a repair kit.

Pros:

• Everything you need is included: leash and pump and repair kits
• Inexpensive
• Very stable
• Easy to inflate and deflate
• Lightweight, easy to carry anywhere

Cons:

• The bag is not really that great

• Amazon

⭐ SereneLife Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

This very wide board measures 10’ 5” in length and 30” in width that gives balance and stability. It has non-slip soft top cushions for an added safety feature. Perfect for beginners for that enriching paddling experience. Equipped with triple bottom panel fins that makes steering & handling the stand-up inflatable paddle boards is very easy. Has exceptional surf control that makes gliding & skimming efficiently! Take this board with you to any water explorations. Top of the line accessories such as: coiled ankle cuff safety leash, upgraded aluminum paddle, manual air pump, and storage bag.

Pros:

• Stable
• Great for casual paddle boarding.
• Has a good speed and ability to maintain that pace without too much drag.
• The pump that fits into the cigarette lighter slot of the vehicle and pumps up in a few minutes.
• Easy to deflate and fold back into bag.
• Great customer service

Cons:

• The paddle doesn’t float
• Hand pump provided with board had a bad gauge

• Amazon

⭐ Retrospec Weekender Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

Truly an amazing paddle board that is the most stable for all skill levels. This board measures 10’ in height, 30” in width, and 6” in thickness. Made from military-grade PVC that guarantees its durability. Has a recommended weight capacity of 275 lbs. This comes with every accessory needed such as: 3Pc adjustable & lightweight aluminum Paddle, 3 removable nylon fins, manual pump. 

Great for those family out-of-town weekends and can accommodate two riders for that never a boring ride at all!

Pros:

• It tracks quite well
• Ease of transport 
• It takes no more than 10 minutes to inflate and 5 minutes to deflate the board
• Can withstand bumping into rocks and other things
• High quality pump. Very light and works perfectly
• The paddle floats and it is adjustable
• More stable than hard boards 
• Durable
• Very easy to handle and maneuver

Cons:

• The plastic fins are not very good
• The inserting and the removing of the 3 fins can be hard

• Amazon

Best paddle board yoga under $500

⭐ Goplus Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board 10’

This is an extra durable paddle board made from high quality PVC and constructed with drop-stitch construction. This stand up paddle board provides stability and safety and built for long time use. Comes equipped with high quality bungee on the front deck to keep safe and has something you can hold on to. What’s good about it is, it can be used for multi-functions. This paddle board is perfect for all skill levels and suits almost all water conditions. You can go cruising along the oceans, lakes or rivers. The deck pad covers almost throughout the tail area of the board for activities like surfing, yoga and fishing. Added features are a durable top foam, non-slip grip and 4 point mounted bungee system, which ensures the extra safety when paddlers are very active on it. This inflatable SUP has a large weight capacity that allows heavier riders up to 440 lbs. to enjoy this water sport. This reasonably priced SUP package comes complete with a carry backpack, a front bungee for storage, carrying handles, hand pump with PSI gauge, repair kit, one fin and deluxe lightweight paddle. You can quickly and easily inflate and deflate this blow up paddle board.

The Goplus is a 10’ long, 30” wide and 6” thick paddle board. The wide grip surface also makes it great for extra passengers and yoga enthusiasts. Although it is not as wide or long as other boards, it’s rigid soft top build is reliable and comfortable. There is also a bungeed compartment in the front for more storage.

Pros:

• Has a large no-slip grip deck space suited for yoga practitioners
• It has a maximum weight capacity of 440 pounds
• Good for recreational paddling on calm waters and other water conditions
• Has a rigid soft top construction that is reliable
• It feels very solid
• It IS easy to deflate, roll up and fit in the bag along with everything else
• The backpack comes with padded adjustable straps
• There are 5 D rings around the pad for securing things and other gears 

Cons:

• The tracking can be unpredictable at times since it only comes with one fin and it has round front end
• The package doesn’t include a leash

Where to buy:

• Amazon

Best Paddle Board for Fishing under $ 500

⭐ Zray FS7 Paddle Board

This good looking versatile board has inflatable sup board reviews that are very positive. You can indulge in a lot of water activities like leisurely paddling, yoga and most especially, it’s designed for fishing aficionados. By standing up it will allow you to see almost all the fish with great vantage point and you can silently bait and catch them. This inflatable board comes with two fixed and one removable fin. When fully inflated, it feels very similar to a solid hard board and can accommodate a paddler up to 330lbs. Be comfortable and secure while fishing and enjoy the stability it offers. It comes complete with almost all the accessories you need like a pump, an adjustable floating aluminum paddle, 3 fins with 1 removable central fin,  backpack bag , waterproof case as a bonus and another latest updated pump which makes the inflating faster and easier, in about 5-10 minutes only. Aboard that is compact when rolled up for easy storage and portability.

Pros:

• It has multiple D-Rings on the sides, so you can use them for coolers and or even for a kayak seat
• There is also a bungeed storage compartment in the front for storing smaller things
• The deck is wide and it a uses a non-slip grip so you can stand with so much comfort
• Comes with a very good looking backpack with shoulder straps for storage and carry and the size is great to fit everything
• High maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds
• Wide and long deck, with no-slip grip
• Comes with everything you need to start paddling
• It's not hard to inflate, as fast as five minutes 
• The paddle may be a bit on the heavy side, but is adjustable and floats
• This paddle board will allow you to go to places you have never been before
• It’s ultra- light compared to a kayak
• This is a very stable board fishing, and very easy to on and off it 
• It can track pretty straight

Cons:

• The package doesn’t come with an ankle leash
• It’s not quite suitable for long-distance paddling or for racing
• Pump can be sensitive to use, extra care is needed

Where to buy:

• Amazon

Best Paddle Board For Racing under $500

⭐ Goplus Expedition Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

This racing board comes in two sizes, 11’ and 12’5” both with 30” width and 6” thickness. It is made of high quality PVC and drop stitch material, which provides stability and very safe to use. It also can be used for a longer period of time. It has a maximum weight capacity of up to 440lbs. It’s suitable for heavier paddlers that will make them have an enjoyable ride. This paddle board is ideal for all skill level because of its length and proportion. It can also provide an excellent glide for fishing, cruising, exploring and fitness. If you love the open water, there’s nothing quite like enjoying this board to the fullest. It features a wide and non-slip soft top deck, which provides improved stability and balance for all paddlers. The aluminum paddle can be adjusted to adapt to any age and height. This paddle board inflates and deflates quickly for easy use, storage and transport anytime. Comes with a big removable fin, a nose mounted carry handle, 4 points mounted bungee, and 5 D-Rings. It’s so easy to inflate and use it.

Pros:

• The pump gauge works great and has no holes and no leaks whatsoever
• You’ll love the backpack and adjustable paddle.
• Definitely worth it 
• It’s stable, firm and easy to use
• Once it’s inflated you can’t even tell it’s  an inflatable other than by how light it is
• The quality is reliable
• Its paddle works well
• Very easy to  inflate and deflate
• It’s price point worthy for it’s reasonable priced

Cons:

• The pump is made of thin plastic
•  It takes only a little effort to pump it up but the screw on the cap of the pump comes off easily
• You have to be careful and not pull the handle up too hard when pumping it up or the whole thing might pull right off

Where to buy:

• Amazon

Best stand up paddle board for surfing under 500

⭐ JOYSTAR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards 11ft

Made from premium military-grade material with high-strength drop-stitch technology board which is strong and durable. Has a safety design that’s perfect for every paddler. It is also the ideal choice for people of all ages and skills. It has an upgraded no-slip soft top that has cushions to protect you when you fall or slip off the board. Enjoy a stable time riding this 11’ long, 32” wide and 4” thick inflatable paddle board that has anti-skid properties to surf with better control on any water surface. It has a large fin with strong splitting power that will make sure that your board is very stable and that the gliding speed can be adjusted.  It could be quickly inflated or deflated for easy storage and it’s very ideal for the lake, river or ocean. It is not only perfect for surfing but for yoga and fishing as well. And it only takes one minute to deflate this incredible board. Comes with a complete kit and service such as paddles, air pump, fins, leash, and other small accessories can be put into the waterproof storage backpack together for easy carrying. The company offers customer service for 24 hours. 

Pros:

• It's easy to inflate and deflate. Deflation is only a minute.
• Very good quality
• The three-fin system keeps the board nice and stable on the water
• It's a really great surfboard
• Durable
• Glides very well

Cons:

• No negative reviews so far
• As an additional information. Here are some surfing tips: 
• Always wear a leash when surfing since it will greatly help you to be always safe and far from injuries. It will also keep your inflatable at bay.
• Don’t ever try and paddle into a wave when another surfer or paddler is already riding it
• Be always prepared.  Waves are endless at times and there will always be a wave behind every wave.

Where to buy:

• Amazon

Do inflatable paddle boards pop?

An inflatable is said to be more durable than any solid board. It’s indestructible being made of high grade PVC material and with advance drop stitch construction technology.

Although inflatables are not subject to the normal dings, cracks, and scratches that epoxy boards are, they should still be cared for. Yes, they can take a lot of beating and can withstand more but they should still be treasured.  It’s proven that it takes a lot to really damage an inflatable SUP. Nevertheless, they can still pop if one is not aware on how to avoid this scenario.

How to avoid popping your inflatable paddle board

• When strapping your board on top of your car, make sure it’s not tied down too tight. This can cause bulges and lead to popping.

• When you carry your board in and out of the water, don’t drag it over gravel, rocks, debris or even sand.

• Avoid dropping your inflatable. A serious drop can lead to a crack your board. If there’s a crack, water can go through your board.

• The sun, rain and wind will take a huge toll on your iSUP if they’re exposed too much when not in use and don’t take a chance on this.

• Always clean and rinse your board after use. This is even more so if you paddled in saltwater. This is to prevent a salty crust from forming. By just simply hosing down on your iSUP, it will wash away the mildew and bacteria from perpetuating your board. Don’t forget to thoroughly clean the board including the fin boxes, deck pad and slider neck.

• Avoid your inflatable paddle board to be in contact with a sharp object like a nail. 

• Do not leave your board out in the sun while inflated for more than 24-48 hours.  The hot air temperature can cause the air pressure to increase thus possibly it can pop the board.

• Do not over inflate. 

• When storing for longer periods of time we recommend that you store your board deflated. Make sure it’s rinsed with fresh water, fully dry and it’s rolled just right and not too tight to prolong the life of the board. This will also keep the material as strong as possible.

One great thing about an inflatable paddle board is should there be a leak or it popped, it can still be repaired very easily and quite reliably. That’s is its strong point unlike an epoxy or solid board that when crashed into a rock it could easily get dinged or dented. An epoxy paddle board could break when dropped on a cemented flooring. But an inflatable paddle board might be dropped from a building to a cemented floor but it will come out undamaged!

There are a lot of price variants available for a wide array of stand-up paddle boards.

Best paddle board under 100

There are paddle boards below 100. Would you believe that? Usually, these boards are for children and teens.  Please do check our site link for the choices you have for this price range.

Best inflatable paddle board under 200

For cheap inflatable sup, do visit our link for a variety of choices to choose from for the best inflatable paddle board under 200.

Best stand up paddle board under 300

This is a price for really reasonably priced inflatable paddle boards. Do check our link for best inflatable stand up paddle board reviews under 300.

Best inflatable paddle board under 400

Check our extensive line-up for the best inflatable paddle board under 400.

Best stand up paddle board under 1000

Here are two special boards under 1000. 

The Red paddle board co. inflatables are unbeatable when it comes to stand up paddle boards and since 2008 Red paddle co has been making the best. This brand is UK’s number SUP.

⭐ Red Paddle Co Ride MSL Inflatable SUP

There are a lot of Red paddle boards available but this one is the popular choice.

It includes a double chamber red paddle co titan pump, red paddle co all terrain wheeled backpack, waterproof cell phone case and a repair kit. Its suggested inflation pressure is 18-22PSI. With its higher pressure comes a stiffer board for a better performance. While most inflatable boards flex uncontrollably at their low inflation pressures, Red Paddle Co SUPs can inflate up to 25 PSI for maximum rigidity and for a hard board performance.

Primarily designed to answer all the requirements of the all-round paddler. It can manage to float and glide easily on flat water, while giving a  smooth and predictable ride and surf. Comes with three tracking iFins for the best offering of directional stability and control. Made using an innovative leading construction technology,  Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion composite involves fusing the second layer of hard-wearing polymer to the dropstitch core at the raw material stage, removing hand gluing errors. The high-tech industrial process also saves up to 20% of weight per board and makes the boards stiffer at lower pressures. The dimension of the board is: Length: 10’6”, Width: 32" and Thickness: 4.75".

Pros:

• Has a slick new and improved graphics with attention to visual details that now match the advanced construction and ultra-rigidity technology
• Top quality MSL Fusion construction with a hard-board-feel finish
• Capable of quick inflation with the efficient Titan Pump
• Has a well-thought and designed internal packaging in the carry bag for a secure transportation of the paddle and other accessories
• Includes an accessories mount for GPS, camera or phone
• Takes pride in an improved EVA deck pad with pointed diamond texture towards the tail for better feeling and grip
• Truly a stable board with a decent glide
• It has a larger and secure storage area
• Boast of a bomb proof iFins

Cons:

• The Titan pump is a bit bulky but it’s a great one

Where to buy:

• Amazon

POP Paddleboards

Another player in the paddle board industry is POP paddle board. Founded in 2012, Orange County based POP Paddleboards is at the height of manufacturing high quality and their boards are designed and engineered  for lasting performance and long lasting memories. It features breath-taking styles of fun and vibrant retro style.

POP is now available at retailers in California and Hawaii and is has a long-term international expansion in Canada and Brazil. They have two warehouses located in Canada and Japan

https://canada.poppaddleboards.com/inflatables/

POP Paddleboards 10’6” Royal Hawaiian Mint/Black

This POP paddle board is quite a- in demand all-around model that offers excellent versatility and stability. This POP paddleboard 10'6” long, 6? thick and 30” wide that offers an additional stability that’s really helpful when you’re just beginning with the sport of paddle boarding. It’s capable of supporting a maximum weight of 300 pounds. The versatile design of this board allows it to be used for flatwater paddling, surfing small waves, SUP fitness, paddling around a child or dog, and much more. There’s a small front bungee storage area for securing cargo, a convenient grab handle at the tail, and a single removable fin on the bottom.

Pros:

• The most well-rounded iSUP in the company’s range this time
• This model is a no-frills board that offers a nice blend of stability and versatility
• Has a vibrant design and a nimble shape that make this board very pleasant to ride
• Comes with a squash tail that improves the stability and improves the thrust in small surf
• Great for beginners and expert riders that are looking for a board with an all-around shape and lot of features and innovations will love this board.

Cons:

• No negative reviews so far

Please visit our site for more options under $1000.

Stand Up paddle board bag

To have a reliable and functional stand up paddle board bag is very important to keep your SUP protected, secure and safe. There are SUP bags for solid boards as well as for the inflatable SUP’s. Take a look at the best stand up paddle board bag.

Inflatable Paddle board pump

If you have an inflatable stand up paddle board, a dependable pump is very important. This will help you to easily inflate and deflate your board. It will lessen your set-up time and you’ll be on your board in little time. Usually, an inflatable board package comes with a manual pump. Along the way, paddlers upgrade their pumps into an electric pumps. These electric pumps are widely available in the market. Please take time to visit our link for the best inflatable paddle board pump.

You will enjoy SUP paddle boarding with any of these paddle boards under $500. No need to spend a fortune on them! They will never short-change with the quality and durability you truly deserve. They are boards so worth it with their price tags so unbelievably inexpensive.

SUP paddlers don’t need to have deep pockets to enjoy and pursue this water sports.

These paddle boards will be your true allies in fulfilling your SUP paddling exploration goals!