What SUP board should I get as a beginner?

As a beginner, you want to concentrate on getting up and remaining comfortable while standing on the sup board. As such, you don’t want to be worrying about whether the kit you are on is making it harder, wobbly and subsequently the reason you may be finding paddleboarding hard or unenjoyable!

We have put down our top 3 paddleboard recommendations for beginners, based on our knowledge and expertise, but also from what we have learned from feedback from customers on beginner lessons and after-board purchases!

As we have already mentioned in previous blogs such as ‘What is a good sup board for beginners?’ and ‘Ultimate Inflatable SUP Buying Guide’, when you are starting out paddleboarding, you want a board that is stable, stiff, and with a suitable glide, as well as with a decent paddle and pump to make it an easier experience overall!

 

Our Top 3 Recommendations:

1. Starboard iGO Zen SC 10'8" x 31+"

A shop favourite. The reason we recommend this paddle board is because the Starboard iGO Zen is a fantastic, top-quality paddleboard package, and currently, as it is discounted, this board can apply to more price budgets. Who doesn’t love great value for money?

 
A great size for all beginners, you get stability from the 31” width, good glide at 10’8, and easy manoeuvrability as it is not too long. It is suitable for those using it on chop at the beach, in a flatter harbour, or in river waters. The Zen construction is lightweight but super sturdy and reliable, with dropstitch and welded rails (a rare quality in most sup boards). ‘Welding the rails is the only way to avoid a board leaking over the long term. Starboard has pioneered the most advanced and reliable rail welding technology, which mechanically bonds the rail layers to the dropstitch. This makes the board more durable, longer lasting and better for the environment.’

 
If you are starting out at paddleboarding or buying your first board, you will not be disappointed with the Starboard iGO Zen. It is a super-quality board, the perfect size, and will last for ages. You won’t need to upgrade with this board, and if you do, we guarantee it will be because you are after something for longer, like exploring paddles like a touring board! 

Check out the Starboard iGO Zen SC from £389!

 

2. STX Cruiser 10.8: 

The STX sups fit perfectly in the middle of our range as a board with a quality, stiff construction but for a mid-level package price. For under £500, you can get a double-layered board with double-layer rails and an X-fusion dropstitch. ‘The lightest inflatable boards on the market'. Woven fabric weighs less. It prevents the material from stretch and holds more tension.’ The technology means that this a super stiff board that won’t flex, yet as a double layer board it is still incredibly light.

 

This is a great board that we generally sell to families, as it has plenty of volume, great width for all ages, and is stiff so that everyone in the family can be comfortable standing on it—even the dads! The nose is slightly pointed so that it can cut through the water for a smoother glide, but it is also round and voluminous enough to go over waves comfortably.

It comes with decent package components that are suitable for beginners: a double action pump, a fibreglass paddle (slightly lighter and stiffer than the alloy paddles you get in the cheapest package), an ankle leash, a click-in fin (no need for losing screws or tools), and a zip-up rucksack bag that has plenty of space to put it all in and is lighter than a bag with wheels!

Overall, a great quality package in our mid-range of boards and a great first board for anyone.

Check out the Starboard Cruiser at £429!

 

3. RED Ride 10.6: 

The newest addition to our range of inflatable paddleboards, but definitely a brand I am sure you have all heard of in the SUP market. RED started the trend of inflatables and are still at the top of the market for a reason: they do them right! The Ride range from RED is notorious as a fantastic board for everyone of any age and skill and a go-to choice as a first board for someone who wants to buy once and get quality from the start.
 
The super stiff MSL construction allows any rider to have great time paddleboarding and feel stable at all times. The higher price package is due to the high-quality board and components; the package comes with the Titan pump (which makes it SO much easier to inflate the board), a wheely bag rucksack (so convenient getting it around), a waterproof phone pouch AND a quality hybrid paddle with anti-twist clamp.

 

Purchasing a Red Ride is a long-term investment as they are built to last and be on the water. Plus, purchase now while we have the 2023 model here discounted!

Check out the RED Ride 10.6 discounted to £649!

As you can probably tell, there are plenty more available options out there on the market, but from our experience and testing, we think if you are wondering where to start looking, these are the best 3 packages based on value, quality and stiffness!

 Certain people buying their first board may want something a bit more progressive and cruisey too, so just drop us a message or call about this :) 

Also check out our 'Ultimate Paddleboard Buying Guide' Blog.

 

If you have any other questions, please do call us on 01202 700503, email us at info@pooleharbour.co.uk, use LiveChat in the corner of the screen or come in to say 'hello and take a look at our selection! We are always here in any way.