No matter where we paddle, it is all the same, isn’t it? Wrong! Each body of water offers different currents, waves, and other conditions affecting your paddleboarding experience. The most common bodies of water that everyone loves to paddleboard are oceans and lakes. Here, we are focusing more on the 70% that covers our planet—the ocean. SUP or Stand-Up Paddle Boarding out in the ocean is the next big thing on your bucket list this summer. Chances are, you’ve tried it last summer or heard a lot of great things about SUP and want to try it out. Either of the two, we got you!
Here is where you want to start: shopping for your partner, your ocean paddleboard. Choosing the ideal stand-up paddleboard for ocean paddling can be tough. You should never rush your purchase and get to know first the sport and your board. We’ve done the research for you and listed the best ocean paddleboards that will suit your versatile and adventurous self.
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Ocean Paddleboards Reviewed
- Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12’ Paddle Board – Best Overall
- SereneLife Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board – Best Value
- Peak Expedition Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board – Editor’s Choice
- Hala Gear Carbon Straight-Up Paddle Board
- PEXMOR Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- THURSO SURF Expedition Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
- Atoll 11′ Foot Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
1. Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12’ Paddle Board – Best Overall
Key Features:
- 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate PVC
- Pro Weave Drop Stitch
- Flex Reduction System
- Smart Lock Fin System
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 12 ft. x 32 in.
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 28 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 385 lbs.
The Bluefin Cruise Carbon’s use of high-end materials, high-quality construction, and dependable versatility made them worthy of mentioning. It is almost impossible to damage this paddleboard, making it by far the most durable, most rigid iSUP on the market, ideal for extended ocean paddling.
Its second inflation chamber under the deck pad adds to the board’s structural rigidity, along with the carbon-reinforced Flex Reduction System side rails help it glide easily through the ocean water and maintain stability on choppier wave conditions. Proving its versatile profile, the paddleboard features a clip-on padded seat that will convert your board into than iSUP kayak, and there is even a mount for your GoPro camera, allowing you to film your most exciting ocean adventure.
With its 12-foot x 32-inch x 6-inch dimensions, the Cruise Carbon 12 can handle riders up to 385 pounds. However, if you wish for a longer board, the Bluefin Carbon 12 is available in a massive 15 feet long version. Plus, you can inflate the board up to 28 pounds, but most electric pump does not go above 20PSI, and to do it by hand would be a challenge.
Other board accessories include a backpack for storage, coil leash, high-pressure pump, and two-piece paddles. With a total of five grab handles, carrying around the ocean paddleboard with ease will not be a problem.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The option of converting into a kayak | Heavier than most ocean paddleboards |
| Extremely durable, rigid, and sturdy | Somewhat expensive |
| Stable even on choppier conditions | |
| Consistent speed and stability | |
| Heavy-duty craftsmanship | |
| Offers long-term warranty |
2. SereneLife Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board – Best Value
Key Features:
- Anti-slip top deck
- UV-resistant
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 10.6 ft. x 32 in.
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 19.5 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.
If you are looking for an ocean paddleboard that performs almost like a standard epoxy paddleboard, the SereneLife Inflatable Paddleboard will impress you. Plus, the paddleboard is moderately-priced but expensive in its quality and functions.
It paddles more like a rigid paddleboard, especially when inflated its recommended 15 PSI. This paddleboard will lend you very consistent stability even on the most choppy waves on the ocean with its wide 32 inches platform, six inches thick, supporting over 300 pounds of rider cargo.
The SereneLife ocean paddleboard is available in multiple colors, black and gray, black, aqua, blue, marine blue, and olive green, and all complement the deep blue color of the ocean. Built from sturdy PVC material, double-layer fabric, and blended with a UV-resistant coating, this paddleboard is equipped for the ocean’s adventure. It is charmingly impact-resistant, and the sun will not get to damage your board.
The non-slip EVA pad on the top of the board lends more grip and safety. The board is lightweight at only 19.5 pounds, and the carry handle in the middle of the paddleboard allows you to carry the board with ease. The complete kit includes an aluminum floating paddle, a pretty good backpack to store the board when you are done of the day, a high-pressure pump for quick inflation, a leash, and a repair kit—everything you need to get you on the ocean.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Travel-friendly, great for ocean paddling excursions | Not the most stable board on rough waters |
| All accessories included; a complete package | Not the best option for advanced paddlers |
| Moderately priced with high-quality features | |
| The top deck is soft, anti-slip, and stable | |
| Fast and easy to glide through the water | |
| Durable, rigid, and sturdy |
3. Peak Expedition Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board – Editor’s Choice
Key Features:
- Soft EVA deck
- Puncture-resistant shell
- Military-grade PVC construction material
- Complete iSUP accessory bundle
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 11 ft. x 32 in.
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 19 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.
The Peak Expedition will fit any ocean paddling adventures to any paddlers who love to explore the vast wonders of the ocean. Its features, functions, and construction are built for explorations and are great for paddling in all weather conditions.
Weighing at only 19 pounds when inflated plus the extra-wide 32 inches stance ensures a stable and sturdy stand-up paddleboard, supporting up to 275 pounds. You can share the 11-foot-long paddleboard with your adorable pet or enjoy the speed and smooth ride with the Expedition paddleboard.
The soft EVA deck pad adds comfort and grip, with no worrying about slips when paddling through the ocean waves. Made from tough six-inch military-grade PVC construction that is the puncture-resistant tough outer shell, so there is no more worrying about dings or damage on your paddleboard.
The bungee straps on the paddleboard’s hybrid nose and tail secure your water bottle or gear while slicing through the water. The fins are removable, and the D-rings are stainless. Overall, the board is lightweight, so carrying it will not be difficult, especially with the handle at the board’s center.
You should definitely consider buying the Peak Expedition inflatable paddleboard if you are looking for a paddleboard that cruises smoothly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Military-grade PVC construction; cannot be punctured | A little tough to inflate with hand pump |
| Soft and excellent grip EVA deck pad | |
| Adequate bungee straps and D-rings | |
| Glides smoothly and likes to go fast | |
| Coms with iSUP accessory bundle | |
| Lightweight; easy to transport |
4. Hala Gear Carbon Straight-Up Paddle Board
Key Features:
- Carbon-reinforced construction
- Squared-off tail
- Three rear fins
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 10’6” x 32 in.
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 23.5 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
The Hala Gear Carbon Straight Up inflatable paddleboard provides respectable all-around performance as one of the most rigid ocean boards on the market. Its blend of glide, stability, and maneuverability for all paddlers’ levels in all conditions will make you want to buy this paddleboard for your next ocean paddling.
This inflatable paddle board is 10-foot, 6-inch long by 36-inch wide by 6-inch thick with a stunning carbon stringer running along both the top and bottom of the board. This results in an excellent rigid board, almost the same as a traditional rigid SUP model.
The Carbon Straight Up inflatable paddleboard is certainly stable in most conditions, thanks to its carbon-reinforced, squared-off tail, and three rear fins, especially in calmer conditions. It is impressive how the board easily glides and offers ease of maneuverability. This paddleboard is likely better suited for smaller and lighter paddlers with a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds, and the board does come short compared to other boards in the list.
Its pointed and slightly rockered front end allows the board to glide through the water nicely. However, it tends to lose its efficiency in rougher conditions, and as the wind picks up, it becomes difficult to keep tracking the line. Hence, the board will be best suited for beginners who are more laid back or advanced paddlers who can control the board in less-than-ideal conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gets bouncy around choppy water more than bigger boards | Does not include a paddle |
| Diamond Groove 4mm EVA Deck Pad | Expensive |
| Lightweight and easy to maneuver | |
| Easy to transport and inflate | |
| Smooth glide on water | |
| Very rigid and durable |
5. PEXMOR Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
Key Features:
- ULTRA LIGHT CONSTRUCTION DUAL LAYER PVC
- 4 D-rings with extendable bungees
- 3-year guarantee warranty
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 10-ft,6-in x 32 in
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 19.6 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 551 lbs.
The PEXMOR iSUP is charmingly 35% lighter than comparable models but still one of the most durable and rigid paddleboards in the market. It is great for your ocean paddling excursions, featuring functions and construction ideal for any conditions.
The paddleboard has two layers of military-grade PVC material at six inches thick and weighs only 19.5 pounds when inflated, meaning everybody can carry the board with ease and comfort. The paddleboard lends a 10.6-long by 32 inches wide platform with a deck pad extending all the way to the tail.
What makes this paddleboard shine is its maximum weight capacity. The PEXMOR inflatable paddleboard supports a whopping 551 pounds of weight. So, if you have a lot of gear to carry on your ocean excursion or have lovely pets that you can’t leave on the shore, this paddleboard is your best to go. Plus, the useful four D-rings on the board’s nose can secure your gears, and a leash is attached to one of the rings for safety.
The package includes a high-pressure pump, aluminum paddle, storage backpack, repair kit, safety leash, fins, and a waterproof bag. Plus, you will be lent a 3-year guarantee on the material and given 30 days of return if received with damage or some parts are missing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and very durable paddleboard | Smaller than ideal dimension for ocean paddleboard |
| All necessary iSUP accessories included | |
| Easy to transport and inflate | |
| Easy for all skills to control | |
| Very high weight capacity | |
| Extended grip deck pad | |
| Long term warranty |
6. THURSO SURF Expedition Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
Key Features:
- Drop stitch core and double-layer construction
- Sleek design
- Three-fin system, all removable
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 11’6” x 30”
- Board Thickness: 6”
- Weight: 28 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 330 lbs.
The THURSO Expedition inflatable paddleboard is designed for speed, perfect for your next ocean paddling excursion. Its streamlined body is precisely contoured to minimize drag, allowing you to cut the water more easily and paddle further.
The paddleboard features a double-layer construction and triple/quad military-strength PVC coatings on both the deck and side. Plus, the drop stitch core made the Thurso Expedition one of the most durable iSUPs you can get right now. Its performance gets better. Continue reading.
Thurso Expedition lends a 30-inch wide platform, giving you stability as you paddle faster through the ocean water. Its three-fin system also aids stability when you are exploring rough water. With this board’s premium construction, the Thurso Expedition paddleboard will not bend or sink, or wobbly, consistent performance!
Its nose is pointed, and the tail is narrow, creating a streamlined shape. It grants the desired maneuverability for tight turns and full control. The overall design allows both paddling at speed and carrying supplies for an expedition.
What’s more, this inflatable paddle board weighs 28 pounds and offers a generous bearing capacity of up to 330 pounds. The paddleboards also fold and deflate nicely just as how beautiful and rigid it is when inflated. A bungee cord is attached at the front and back for storage and has two grab handles at the nose and center.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely durable with high-quality and unique materials | Some users does not recommend the paddleboard for complete beginners |
| High-quality complete iSUP accessories | No tail grab handle |
| Simple yet very gorgeous design | |
| Stable in almost all conditions | |
| Narrow, streamlined, and fast | |
| Tool-less fin installation |
7. Atoll 11′ Foot Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
Key Features:
- Fiberglass paddle
- Military-grade PVC material
- Reasonable price tag
Specifications:
- SUP Type: Inflatable
- Dimensions (L x W): 11 ft. x 32 in.
- Board Thickness: 6 inches
- Weight: 22.5 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
Giving you a quality performance beyond its price tag, the Atoll 11′ Foot Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board concludes today’s list. The paddleboard quite does a pretty job of balancing all-around glide performance, stability, and maneuverability.
Measuring 11-foot x 32-inch x 6-inch at 22. 5 pounds when inflated, this paddleboard fits the average shape and size, making it ideal for general paddling around the ocean. Its 32-inch waist gently tapers to a pointed nose that blends perfectly along most of the board’s length, maintaining a comfortable amount of stability for most paddlers in most paddling conditions.
The paddleboard features three fins in which the two fins are permanently attached to the board, and the larger center fin is removable with the included hand-tightening screw. This brilliant feature allows a great balance of stability in choppy water while being versatile in calmer water.
Another feature that made the Atoll 11′ Foot Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board on our list is its high-quality paddle included in the package. While other companies give cheap aluminum paddles, Atoll boasts of providing a high-quality carbon fiber shaft with a stiff nylon blade paddle that will surely last you for a long time, depending on how you will take care of it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to inflate and deflate with a sleek carrying pack included | Other models are slightly more nimble |
| Its overall lightweight design helps make it easier to control | Lacks rear bungee system |
| Admirable performance at a reasonable price tag | No front handle |
| High-quality and very durable accessories | |
| Solid all-round performance |
Top-Pick for the Best Ocean Paddle Board 2020: Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12’ Paddle Board
The ocean is very versatile, unpredictable, and full of adventures. What you want when you paddleboard on the ocean is the best paddleboard to match this body of water’s adventures and un-predictableness. Hence, we offer you the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12′ Paddle Board.
This fast, stable, and versatile paddleboard is everything you will ever need when out in the ocean. Thanks to its high-end materials, high-quality construction, and dependable performance in all kinds of conditions, the paddleboard is the most reliable in the ocean. With its 12-foot x 32-inch x 6-inch dimensions, the Cruise Carbon 12 can handle riders up to 385 pounds.
Bluefin Cruise Carbon is available in three different lengths, from 10’8″, 15″, and 12″ which this deal offers. The paddle board is very durable, and the second inflation chamber under the deck pad adds to the board’s structural rigidity. Plus, its carbon-reinforced side rails help it slice through the water and maintain stability in choppier conditions.
What’s more, by utilizing D-rings, you can transform this beauty into a kayak and clip in the comfortable padded seat, and swap the SUP handle for a specialist kayak paddle end. And the integrated GoPro mount on the nose will help you document your exciting ocean paddling.
Even though you will find the Cruise Carbon 12 on the more expensive end of the spectrum, its high-end construction, and joyful functions will make every penny count. It is ideal for all-around ocean paddling, in all types of paddlers, and in all types of conditions, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12′ Paddle Board earns out Top-Pick for the best ocean paddleboard.
Best Brands for the Best Ocean Paddleboard 2020
Knowing the best brands that guarantee great-quality ocean paddleboard lets you know, you are off to a good start. Here are the best and most reliable brands for the best ocean paddleboards. A lot of paddlers loved and left good reputable ratings about them. We know you will too.
- Bluefin
- Hala Gear
- Isle
- Atoll
- Peak
- PEXMOR
- THURSO
- ISLE Surf and SUP
- SereneLife
- Nixy
The companies are always the ones behind every top-notch paddleboard that are always worthy of mentioning. Remember these brands to ensure your shopping for ocean paddleboard success.
Ocean versus Lake Paddle Boarding — Which is Better?
Paddleboarding can take place in almost all types of bodies of water. There are five classifications to name, including the seas, rivers, lakes, canals, and oceans, which are the largest of them all. The ocean covers 70% of our planet, and the rest appears as tiny relevant dots on our world map.
The most common water body that paddlers love to go to are the ocean and lake. Here, we will take a closer look at these two water bodies, and try to find out which better suits you for your next paddleboarding excursion.
The Difference
Ocean paddle boarding comes with lots of variables. It can be quite unpredictable, rough, and mysterious. One time it’s calmer then late is choppier than you were expecting. Ocean paddle boarding is best suited for paddlers who super love surprises in their adventure. When out in the ocean, it is best to come prepared because the weather could change unexpectedly.
In comparison, on lake paddle boarding, not going to lie, life is so much easier. This is because of the flat water that the lake offers. A typical day out in the lake is usually calm in the morning, slightly breezy in the afternoon, and then ending the day with calm water again.
While both water bodies have pros and not much of cons, the decision lies on you. If you want a little more adventure and can handle the un-predictableness of the ocean, we gladly support you. While for a mellower, calming, and relaxing paddle boarding, the lake is ready to welcome you. Paddleboarding itself is very fun. Wherever you wish to paddleboard, we are here to cheer for you.
Buying Guide for Ocean Paddleboards — Factors to Consider
Factors to consider when shopping for an ocean paddleboard are simple, and let’s cut to the chase and glide through them now. Take a pen and take down notes; it may come in useful.
Length
For ocean paddling, the touring paddleboards are the ideal type of paddleboard. It offers more speed, making it best for long-distance paddling. When out in the ocean, you have a vast place to explore. Paddleboard with 10 to 12 feet long will be a great choice.
Width
Of course, after the length, your paddleboard’s width is your next factor. A wider paddleboard is much more stable and ideal if you are a beginner. By far, the most common width starts at 30 to 33 inches. For ocean paddling, this will be enough to provide stability in unpredictable conditions.
Thickness
After determining your paddleboard’s length and width, you want to check its thickness next. Most inflatable paddleboards are 6 inches thick and will already provide you plenty of rigidity for a good performance. Some paddleboards go beyond six inches, and even up to eight inches of thickness.
Construction material
You want to have an ocean paddleboard that can withstand all conditions. It has to be tough and durable, made to last for a long time. Usually, paddleboards made out of military-grade PVC materials and drop stitch technologies are reliable.
Safety Leash and Deck Pad
When out in the ocean, you should never compromise safety. Our listed ocean paddleboards include a leash in the deal. You can attach it to the D-rings and around your ankle. This is for safety when you fall from the board after your encounter with big waves. Plus, the deck pad offers more stability and safety too.
When paddleboarding in the ocean, it is best always to come prepared. It is unpredictably beautiful and has a lot of unexpectedness to explore. Have your best ocean paddleboard for the best ocean paddleboarding experience. Happy shopping!
Conclusion
Ocean paddleboarding is the best to prioritize on your bucket list this summer. But this vast water body is a temperamental beast. One hour it could calm with rainbows, and next, you’re out in stormy and choppy conditions. To be prepared for the worst, you have to have the best paddleboard to handle the more difficult conditions.
And here, the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12’ Paddle Board is our best recommendation. It is stable, fast, and durable—you will love it just as much as we did. We’ve listed six more in a full review and are confident that you will purchase only the best. Make sure to remember the brands we’ve listed along with our comprehensive buying guide.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How to stand on my paddleboard?
How heavy are inflatable paddleboards?
Are inflatable better than rigid paddleboards?
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G’day, my name is Luke and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former xxx athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of xxx’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home,xxx. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely xxx and am also a regular xxx.
