11 Best Cheap Paddle Boards for 2023 – Stand Up Paddle Boards Review

Best Affordable Inflatable SUP Boards

Read on for my reviews of these cheap SUP boards:

1. iRocker Nautical 10’6 – Overall Best Cheap Paddle Board

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The iRocker Nautical 10’6 2021 upgrade is packed with amazing features. There is a reason why I consider it the best budget paddle board. 

The SUP features 13 D-rings and one action mount. It has two bungee storage areas, at the front and back. You can attach a kayak seat, cooler, action camera, and other gear. 

It also has four safety handles so your kid has something to hold on to when they come with you.

There are three fins–a large center fin and two side fins. All of them are removable.

The Nautical 10’6 is built using dual-layer military-strength PVC material. It is reliable and you can have fun without worrying about dents. 

iRocker SUP has been making quality inflatable paddle boards for years. Paddlers love all their paddle boards, including the Nautical. 

RELATED: Also read our iRocker Nautical Review

The inflatable board can hold 240 pounds. 

The iRocker Nautical features an all-inclusive package. Unlike many of the cheap paddle boards you find on the market, its accessories are well-made. 

The paddle has a fiberglass shaft and a nylon blade. Aluminum paddles are common in this price range and they tend to be a little heavy. Fiberglass paddles are lighter and more efficient.

The Nautical travel backpack comes with a wheel option. This means that you can buy a roller tray from iRocker and convert it into a rolling bag. 

Previous boards did not have the option. 

As far as performance is concerned, the Nautical glides well and it is fun to paddle. It is stable enough for beginners and people who want to bring their dog or kid. 

The iRocker Nautical comes with a 60-day guarantee and a two-year warranty. 

I would recommend this paddle board to anyone who is looking for premium quality at a low price. 

Note: if you’re a larger paddler, you should consider the Nautical 11’6 below. I personally weigh about 192 lbs at 6’1 and the Nautical 10’6 is not long enough for me. Paddling it feels sluggish. At my weight, the Nautical 11’6 glides a lot better and gives me much better performance.

What I Like

• Super tough and rugged: It’s made by one of the most reputable iSUP companies using military-grade materials. It’s super tough, so you don’t need to worry about damaging it.
• All-inclusive package: I love the quality of the accessories–a fantastic deal given the price.
• Additional safety handles: Four additional safety handles mean that your kids have something to grab onto when they come with you – a welcome addition that gives me peace of mind.
• Lightweight: Despite the heavy-duty, dual-layer construction, it only weighs 20 pounds, so it’s easy to carry.

What I Don’t Like

• Low weight limit: A 240-pound weight limit is low but it can handle more than it’s rated for.

Check Price of the iRocker Nautical 10’6

2. iRocker Nautical 11’6 – Best Cheap Paddle Board for Larger Paddlers

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For big guys, a larger board may be more suited. And you don’t have to spend too much money to get one. 

The iRocker Nautical is 11’6 long, 32 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. It is also made using dual-layer rugged PVC material on a dropstitch core. It has a weight limit of 265 pounds. 

The size and construction quality ensure you have a nice stable platform for paddle boarding. You won’t find it tippy and it doesn’t flex. 

Many of the super cheap inflatable paddle boards on the market tend to flex, especially if you are heavy. That is not something you have to worry about with this paddleboard. 

The iRocker Nautical 11’6 has a triple-fin system and all the fins are removable. You are free to change the setup based on the conditions you will be paddling in. 

It comes with bungee storage, 13 D-rings, and an action mount for gear. You can buy additional action mounts from iRocker to customize your Nautical if you want to bring more accessories. 

This all-around board also has three grab handles and four safety handles as well as a large soft deck pad. 

The Nautical package includes a fiberglass paddle, carry bag, hand pump, coiled leash, and a repair kit. 

Paddlers who love to travel with their SUP will love the Nautical 11’6. It is lightweight and only weighs 22 pounds. Its backpack is compatible with a wheel tray so you can convert it into a wheeled bag. Traveling will be fun and easier.

The Nautical is available in four colors: sky blue, blue, teal, and gray. 

This would be an ideal stand up paddle board for bigger paddlers or anyone looking for a good all-around SUP.

What I Like

• Well-made: It’s a high-quality inflatable SUP, made with military-grade PVC and comes with a one-year warranty.
• Better for big SUPers: This inflatable stand up paddle board is bigger than the Nautical 10’6 and it can hold more weight, so it’s great for larger paddlers.
• Nice color options: I love the color options – it is available in teal, blue, sky blue or grey.
• Attachment points: It has multiple handles, D-rings, and a gear mount for gear and accessories. This means it’s easy to carry, easy to handle, and gives you the option to attach gear to enhance your SUP session.

What I Don’t Like

• Pricey for a ‘cheap’ SUP: It’s not the cheapest option here but it is still on the more affordable side.

Check Price of the iRocker Nautical 11’6

3. Gili Air 10’6 – Cheap Paddle Board with the Best Color Options

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The Gili Air inflatable SUP is another budget board that will not disappoint. When I tested the Air – I honestly found that it performed almost exactly the same as the Nautical.

If the Air came with a fiberglass paddle (like the Nautical), then I would have really struggled with figuring out which paddle board to put in my top spot on this review!

The Air is a well built paddle board. It looks great and, for an all around board – it feels nice and stable. You’ll have no trouble paddling it on lakes, slow-moving rivers, and even the ocean with small waves. 

It’s also responsive and easily maneuverable; making quick sharp turns won’t be a problem. It’s tough and durable, made using military-grade PVC, and can hold up to 280 pounds. 

This budget paddle board offers the best color options of any board on this list. It’s available in six vibrant colors and I love that they aren’t too bright when the sun shines on them (so not dazzling), but they still look eye-catching.

This isn’t just about aesthetics, though. The different color options have varied graphics and text displaying a message about oceanlife – so each design is also about raising awareness, as well as looking good!

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Gili Air 11’6 and 10’6

The included accessories–backpack, paddle, and leash–are color also matched, so the overall look is styling and eye-catching. The accessory package also includes a manual pump that comes with a detachable foot, so it packs more compact. It’s attached with a cord so you don’t lose it. I thought this was a nice addition. 

Unfortunately, the paddle is made of aluminum, which is sort of expected when it comes to cheap paddle boards. But seeing as some lower-priced SUPs are now offering fiberglass paddles (like the Nautical), I hope that Gili Sports will follow suit. 

For now, you can choose a fiberglass paddle option at a higher price when buying your Gili Air, but the SUP package does not include this as standard. 

Consider getting the Gili Air 11’6 if you’re a taller or heavier paddler like me. I weigh about 192 lbs at 6’1 and, like with the Nautical, the Air 11’6 performs much better for me.

This stand up paddle board features a large deck pad which is great for yoga or when you are bringing a pet. It has two bungee storage areas, three grab handles, three action mounts, and a paddle holder. 

It is a good option for advanced riders who are looking for an affordable and versatile paddle board. The Gili Air comes with a 60-day guarantee and a two-year warranty.

What I Like

• Attractive and varied color options: The Gili Air is available in six beautiful colors including camo – a pretty unique and cool option for a paddle board. Each color has slightly different graphics and text about reefs and oceanlife; to catch the eye but also raise awareness (see my point about charity below).
• Updated shape for 2022 for improved performance: Gili updated the shape and design of the Air in 2022, and I think it’s much better now. It doesn’t feel like a ‘budget’ package or performance any more – and it’s great value for money.
• Longlasting: This may be a budget option but it is rugged and can take a lot of use and abuse. It has a two-year warranty and you can count on it to last years.
• Plentiful attachment points: The board comes with extra D-rings and three action mounts for you to attach all your gear and accessories.
• Gili makes a charitable donation for every sale: Each time you purchase, Gili donates a small amount to one of many charities that support our oceans and reefs. This is definitely a good cause – and it feels good to offer a little help.

What I Don’t Like

• Aluminum paddle: The Gili Air comes with an aluminum paddle. You could say that this is to be expected when it comes to cheap paddle boards – but I find it a little disappointing, since the Nautical includes a fiberglass paddle for the same price.

Check Price of the Gili Air

4. Bluefin Cruise 10’8 – Best Affordable SUP for Casual Touring 

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Proper performance paddle boards can be quite expensive. But you can still enjoy decent speed on a budget with the Bluefin Cruise 10’8. 

It is moderately long and not too wide. It also has a pointed nose. This gives it a streamlined shape that glides with ease on the water. The performance is decent, whether you are paddling flat water or ocean with mild waves. 

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I have to point out that, for me (at 192 lbs and 6’1), the Cruise 10’8 is too short. Larger paddlers should go with a longer board. I’d recommend the Nautical 11’6, Gili Air 11’6 (both mentioned in this review) – or Bluefin Cruise 12’. 

I mention these boards in particular because they are cheap paddle boards that are comparable with the Cruise – particularly the Nautical.  While the Cruise is more maneuverable than the Nautical 10’6, it is also harder to keep on course – so this is something to keep in mind. 

In terms of pure performance I have to be honest that – for most people – the Nautical would be the better choice. More stability, better tracking and enough speed, and at a better price.

According to the brands information, the Cruise should have a higher weight capacity (330 lbs vs 240), but from my experience the Nautical feels like the higher capacity board. Neither board will sink with an extra rider, but the Nautical will still perform a bit better.

However, where the Bluefin Cruise really shines is with its accessory package.

The Bluefin Cruise 10’8 comes with more than just the basic package you get with most iSUPs. In addition to a paddle, travel bag, manual pump, and leash, it comes with a kayak conversion kit. 

The kit includes a kayak blade and a kayak seat. When you are tired of standing while cruising, you can convert your SUP into a kayak in a minute. 

The paddle has a fiberglass shaft and a polyurethane blade. It is 45% lighter than a standard aluminum paddle. 

For what you pay, I’d say the Bluefin Cruise 10’8 package is a great deal. 

The paddle board has a non-slip croco-diamond deck pad. It offers grip as well as comfort. The board also has a kick-pad feature that enables you to make quick sharp turns. 

When cruising around, you will need to bring a few essentials for comfort. So you’ll love the D-rings, bungee cord storage, and nose action mount on the Cruise 10’8. 

Bluefin inflatable paddleboards are some of the most durable SUPs around. They are built using tough PVC and dropstitch construction. All of them, including the Cruise 10’8, come with a five-year warranty. 

So it may be a cheap stand up paddle board but it is definitely not cheaply made. 

What I Like

• Remarkable performance: The Bluefin Cruise glides smoothly and with decent speed. It’s so much fun to paddle.
• SUP accessories: It comes with all the essentials for paddle boarding as well as a kayak conversion kit.
• Tough and durable: The Cruise 10’8 is one of the best quality paddle boards and even comes with a five-year warranty. You don’t have to worry about dents, even when paddling a rocky river.
• Kick pad feature: The kick pad feature at the tail greatly helps with maneuverability, especially when you have to make quick sharp turns.

What I Don’t Like

• Harder to keep on course: A downside to its maneuverability is that the Cruise tracks less well than comparable boards.
• Only has a 4 d-ring bungee on the nose: The Cruise only has a 4 d-ring bungee on the nose, which is a little disappointing – especially considering that the Nautical has a 6 d-ring bungee on the nose and a 6 d-ring bungee on the tail.

Check Price of the Bluefin Cruise 10’8

5. Roc Inflatable SUP – Best Cheap Paddle Board Under $400

Many of the really cheap paddle boards can’t stand the test of time. The Roc inflatable board, however, continues to be a best-seller. People love it. 

The paddle board is made using military-grade quad-core PVC and ultra-reinforced dropstitch weave construction. It is super tough and comes with a one-year warranty. 

When fully inflated, the Roc inflatable paddle board has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. This is impressive, given its price. And it only weighs 17.5 pounds. 

It would be a great fit for smaller paddlers or the young paddler in your life. They won’t have a problem carrying it over long distances. 

The Roc comes with an adjustable paddle, leash, waterproof bag, backpack, and a manual pump. The paddle is made of aluminum–no complaints because this is a cheap SUP.

If you like to have color options, you will love having 10 of them to choose from. It comes in aqua, black, blue, carbon, charcoal, desert, green, pink, sangria, and solar. 

The Roc stand up paddle board comes with a front bungee storage area and a center carry handle. As far as features go, it is pretty basic. But it is still one of the best cheap SUPs you can get. 

What I Like

• Nice package: The Roc inflatable stand up board package includes all the basic accessories plus a dry bag. For a fair price, you get everything you need to start paddling right away.
• Awesome color options: You can get this inflatable SUP board in 12 beautiful colors.
• Lightweight: It’s wide and rigid enough to support 350 pounds but it only weighs 17 pounds so it’s easy to carry around, even for younger paddlers.

What I Don’t Like

• Cheap pump: The pump quality is underwhelming even at this price point but it gets the job done.
• No extra D-rings: You can’t attach a kayak seat or other accessories.

Check Price of the ROC SUP

6. Outdoor Master Solar Spirit 11’6 

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The Chasing Blue Solar Spirit all-around SUP boasts of a large platform, 11’6 long by 34” wide. It is an amazing entry-level option. 

One thing you can expect from a larger board like this is stability–an important quality for beginners. The Chasing Blue would be great for newbies of all sizes. I found it super stable and rigid (I’m a guy, 6’1, 189 lbs). 

Most cheap inflatables can’t hold a lot of weight and tend to flex with heavier riders. The Outdoor Master Chasing Blue has a weight capacity of 320 pounds, which is commendable. With such remarkable stability and a good weight limit, you can use this SUP for yoga or paddling with your pup. 

Considering it’s price, the Solar Spirit iSUP performs well on the water. It tracks decently and I have no complaints about the speed. 

This paddle board has seven handles; three carry handles and four safety handles. The carry handles make handling the board easy. The safety handles are great for kids to hold on to. I love the front and rear bungee cargo storage which allows you to bring enough gear for a day of paddling. 

The Chasing Blue has a three-fin system: two side fins and a larger center fin. The center fin design is a little different from what you typically see on other SUPs. But the manufacturer sells the fin separately in case you lose yours. 

The Outdoor Master package includes a paddle, backpack, repair kit, leash, phone case, manual pump, and three sets of action mounts. The bag doesn’t feel very durable but it is big enough to fit all your accessories and features travel wheels for ease of transport. 

This paddle board only weighs 24 pounds and comes with a two-year warranty. 

What I Like

• Super stable: The Outdoor Master Spirit is large and stable. It’s suitable for beginners and you’ll also be able to bring your kids with you.
• Weight capacity: The paddle board can support up to 320 pounds so it’s great for paddlers of all sizes.
• Quality construction: It is built using advanced drop stitch construction and it handles impact really well. It has a warranty of two years.
• Action mounts: You’ll receive action mounts in the package so you can attach them wherever you want on the board.

What I Don’t Like

• Manual inflation: Inflating this SUP manually is quite the workout and you may want to invest in an electric pump after a while.
• Can be hard to handle: Because of its size, smaller paddlers may have some trouble maneuvering it.

Check Price of the Outdoor Master Solar Spirit

7. Outdoor Master Violet Spirit 10’6

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The Chasing Blue Violet Spirit is smaller than the Solar Spirit, with a length of 10’6 and a width of 32”. 

It is built using the latest drop-stitch construction, making it rigid and durable. The board has a weight capacity of 280 pounds and comes with a two-year warranty. 

The Violet Spirit is less stable than the Solar Spirit, especially for bigger paddlers. It is a budget inflatable SUP better suited for those on the smaller side. It would also be ideal for older kids and it’s even light enough at 20 pounds for them to carry it around.

On the water, the Violet is slower compared to the Solar Spirit above but it still glides well.  

The Outdoor Master has a soft traction pad that covers most of the deck. It offers comfort and prevents you from sliding off the board when it is wet. I love the two bungee storage areas as well as the extra D-rings for a kayak seat or more gear. 

There are seven handles on the Violet Spirit–four safety handles and three grab handles–that make it easy to carry the board. 

This inflatable paddle board comes with three fins; one large center fin and two side fins. The center fin has a rather odd design, just like the Solar Spirit’s. Fortunately, the manufacturer sells the fins separately so you can easily replace yours if it gets lost.

We love the Violet Spirit inflatable package. It comes with everything you need to start paddling and then some. It includes a paddle, backpack, manual pump, leash, repair kit, phone case, and three sets of action mounts. 

Everything is great but the bag doesn’t feel very high quality. It, however, looks good and comes with wheels. Most boards in this price range don’t come with wheeled backpacks. 

What I Like

• Moderate size: It’s neither too big nor too small and anyone in the family can paddle it just fine.
• Action mounts in the package: The Violet Spirit also comes with action mounts that you can attach whenever you want for your gear. You can use the mounts for your action camera, fishing rods, and other cool accessories.
• Well-made: Even though it’s cheap, this is a durable paddle board that you can expect to use for years. It comes with a two-year warranty.

What I Don’t Like

• Thinner: It is 4.7” thick and may not be buoyant enough for heavier riders because of less volume.

Check Price of the Outdoor Master Violet Spirit

8. Retrospec Weekender 10′

This is another simple and affordable inflatable paddle board, perfect for casual paddle boarding. 

The Retrospec Weekender is built using armor-strength PVC. It is tough and holds up well when you bump into obstacles. 

It can accommodate up to 275 pounds and only weighs 17 pounds. This is a great paddle board for beginners and young paddlers who are looking to get started with SUP. 

The inflatable board has bungee storage at the front, a center carry handle, and a D-ring for your leash. It features a three-fin system–two fixed side fins and a large central fin which is removable. 

There are no extra D-rings for a shoulder strap or kayak seat as is common with other boards. But, again, it’s just a simple inexpensive SUP. 

The Retrospec Weekender inflatable package features a paddle, carry bag, dual-action manual pump, waterproof phone case, and a leash. 

When it comes to performance, this inflatable paddleboard is maneuverable. Making quick turns is easy and you can have so much fun with it. 

What I Like

• Lightweight: Only weighs 17 pounds and anyone can easily carry it around, including kids.
• Maneuverable: It makes a great board for newbies and younger paddlers because they can handle it on the water without an issue.
• Rugged: Despite being so light, the quality of the Retrospec Weekender is actually impressive and it can take whatever you throw at it.

What I Don’t Like

• Tracking: It doesn’t track as well as longer SUPs but with the right paddling technique it’s decent.

Check Price of the Retrospec weekender

9. FunWater 10’6 – Best Paddle Board Under $300

If your budget is really tight but you still want a good paddle board, consider the FunWater inflatable SUP. It is another best-selling model and it has been around for years.

The paddle board is constructed using dual-layer PVC. The rails have an extra PVC layer to make the board even more rigid. 

Despite the heavy-duty construction, the FunWater is a lightweight paddleboard, weighing only 17.6 pounds. If you are looking for a cheap all-around paddle board for a teen, this would be great. 

The FunWater inflatable can hold up to 330 pounds. It comes with a 60-day guarantee and a one-year warranty.

This board’s rigid construction and 33-inch width offer maximum stability. If you want, you can even try SUP yoga on it.

The FunWater paddle board features a bungee storage area, a center grab handle, and a leash D-ring. It has three fins and all of them are removable. 

You get a paddle, backpack, waterproof phone case, high-pressure pump, and a leash with your FunWater SUP board. The paddle is made of aluminum, which is what you would expect at this price. 

What I Like

• Super cheap: One of the cheapest inflatables around and it’s great if you’re on a really tight budget. You’ll get a good paddle board without having to break the bank.
• Good quality: Despite the price, this FunWater SUP is tough and can take a beating. It is stiff enough to support up to 330 pounds so bigger paddlers can use it too.
• Stable: It’s a stable board that anyone can use, including total newbies.
• All-inclusive package: The FunWater iSUP may be the cheapest but you still get all the accessories you need to go paddling right away.

What I Don’t Like

• Cheap bag: The included paddle board bag is not much but it’s what you would expect at this price point.

Check Price of the Funwater SUP

10. Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Inflatable Paddle Board

The Bestway Oceana is a low-priced all-around paddle board for people of all skill levels. Anyone would love it–beginners who want to learn, a skilled paddler looking for an extra board, or anyone who wants a SUP that everyone in the family can use. 

The inflatable paddle board is wide at 33 inches. This is one of the things that make it versatile. It is stable enough for most SUP activities. 

The Hydro-Force Oceana is built using dropstitch construction. It is so tough and durable, you won’t have to worry about dents. 

This inflatable comes with a bungee storage cord attached. It also has two grab handles, extra D-rings for a kayak seat, and a footrest. If you get tired of standing, you can quickly convert it into a SUP kayak. 

The Bestway Oceana inflatable package includes a travel bag, repair kit, paddle, manual pump, and leash. 

In addition to being stable, the Oceana is easy to control and tracks well. You can paddle leisurely on flatwater or ride small waves in the ocean. 

What I Like

• Wide and stable: It’s 33 inches wide and stable for paddle boarders of all skill levels. It feels solid and I’d recommend it even for complete beginners.
• Converts into a kayak: The Oceana has extra D-rings and a footrest –you can quickly convert it into a kayak when you want to take a break from standing.
• Good quality: This inflatable paddle board handles impact well and isn’t easily dented, thanks to the military-strength drop stitch construction.

What I Don’t Like

• Heavy: It’s a little too heavy at 30 pounds.

Check Price of the Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana

11. Aqua Plus 11’ Inflatable Paddle Board

The Aqua Plus is another amazing budget paddle board for youth and adult paddlers alike. 

It comes with bungee storage, a center carry handle, and extra D-rings in case you want to attach a kayak seat. 

The paddle board features military-strength PVC and dropstitch construction. The rails have an additional PVC layer for added rigidity. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.

The Aqua Plus 11 can hold up to 350 pounds when inflated. This is a great weight capacity for a cheap paddle board. 

It is 11’ long and 33 inches wide. You will have a nice stable platform for all your paddle boarding activities, including SUP yoga.

The board only weighs 20 pounds. Deflate it, put it in the bag and you can travel wherever you want with your inflatable paddle board. 

The Aqua Plus, unlike most of the other paddle boards here, has a single-fin system. You can detach it when packing away the SUP and attach it when you go paddling. 

The package includes an aluminum paddle, shoulder strap, travel backpack, waterproof case, pump, and a coiled leash. 

As for performance, the Aqua Plus glides with satisfactory speed, although it’s no racing board. The center fin helps with tracking or moving in a straight line. 

This is a good option for any paddler looking for a really cheap paddle board. 

What I Like

• Large platform: The Aqua Plus is 11 feet long and 33 inches wide. It’s incredibly stable and you can even use it for yoga.
• Rigid: This SUP is so stiff when fully inflated and can hold up to 350 pounds, which is impressive for a cheap paddle board. It’s good for heavy paddlers or people who want to paddle with their kid or pup.
• Lightweight: The Aqua 11 may be tough and rigid but you won’t have a problem carrying it around as it’s only 20 pounds.

What I Don’t Like

• Cheap paddle: The paddle isn’t much and it can bend if you paddle too intensely.

Check Price of the Aqua Plus 11′

What to Consider in Buying a Cheap Inflatable Paddle Board? 

1. Build Quality: What Is the Paddle Board Made Of?

Even though you are buying an inexpensive SUP, you still want it to be durable. 

All inflatable paddle boards are made using PVC and a dropstitch core. So it is a matter of material quality and the number of layers used. 

Quality paddle boards are built with military-grade PVC and usually have two or more layers. This ensures that they are rigid when fully inflated. They can hold a lot of weight and you won’t have to worry about flexing. 

Most cheap paddle boards are made with single-layer PVC and you can find a few with dual-layer PVC construction. 

Single-layer paddle boards tend to flex–but not all of them. 

First, check the company. If the manufacturer is reputable and they have been around for a while, you know the SUP is most likely well made. 

You will also have contact information in case you have a problem with your paddle board. 

You should check what other paddlers are saying too. All the inflatable SUPs reviewed here are highly rated by users on different platforms. Some have had their paddle boards for years and they are still strong. 

Another thing, never ignore the warranty information. A one- to two-year warranty is great for cheap paddle boards. A SUP with no warranty is a huge red flag. 

2. Stability: Is It Stable Enough for the Intended Use?

Most inexpensive paddle boards are stable since they are all-around boards. 

But you should consider your body size and what you want to do with your paddle board.

You will need a more stable SUP if you want to bring a child with you or try yoga. The same goes for bigger paddlers. 

Wider boards are generally more stable. I’d recommend a width of 32 inches or wider for beginners, fitness enthusiasts, larger paddlers, and those who want to bring kids. 

Smaller paddlers, teens, and advanced riders can get away with the narrower models.

The thickness also matters when it comes to stability. Thicker inflatable SUPs are more rigid and have a higher volume. They don’t bend when you put too much weight on them. 

Go for a thickness of 6 inches when buying an inflatable paddle board. 

3. Accessories: What Does the Paddle Board Come with?

Almost all inflatable paddle boards, including the cheap ones, come with accessories. 

Since saving money is the point, you need to make sure that the accessories are high quality too. You should be able to comfortably use them until you have enough money to upgrade. 

For instance, it would be nice to get a fiberglass paddle instead of an aluminum one. Fiberglass is lighter and more efficient. 

But you will have to set your budget at $450+. All the cheaper SUPs will have an aluminum paddle. 

The pump should be able to inflate the board properly so you don’t spend all your time and energy before you get to the water. 

Always check to see what other users are saying. This will give you an idea of what to expect.  

4. Design: What Are the Features on the Inflatable Paddle Board?

Some features on a paddle board are absolutely essential. 

While you won’t find fancy features on cheap paddle boards, look for essentials. Things like fins, carry handles, bungee storage, and leash D-rings are necessary. 

If you want to attach a kayak seat or gear, check to see if the paddle board has extra D-rings and maybe an action mount. 

Check the fin system to make sure it is right for you. Some people love the idea of having all removable fins because they can change the setup. Others don’t mind having fixed side fins.

These design differences may seem minor but they affect your comfort and convenience.  

5. Performance: How Will the SUP Perform on the Water?

You want a paddle board that tracks well, glides with decent speed, and will be easy to control. 

Poor paddling performance can frustrate you. 

Wide paddleboards are stable but the width increases resistance which can slow it down. Long and narrower paddle boards track well and they have impressive speed.  

Longer boards may be good for speed but controlling them can be hard, more so if you are small. 

Most cheap SUPs are all-around paddle boards. You will find that they balance stability, speed, and maneuverability. 

6. Price: Stick to Your Budget or Wait for a Sale 

Stand up paddle boarding is all about having a good time. And that can happen even with a low-cost paddle board. So there is no need to buy a fancy expensive board if money is tight. 

Settle for a nice cheap inflatable paddleboard or wait for a sale–end of summer sales, clearance sales, and other holiday sales. You can even get an expensive SUP for half the price. 

Here is everything you need to know when buying cheap paddle boards.

How Cheap Is Cheap?

The definition of cheap varies from one person to another. In this case, cheap is any inflatable paddle board under $500. 

The paddle boards reviewed here are not the cheapest options on the market. But they are the cheapest quality boards I could find. 

You have to be careful when looking for low-cost SUPs, just as with anything else. It is easy to fall for the enticing advertising language and end up with something that won’t last. 

The paddle boards discussed above range from $300 to about $500. They are solid and durable.

Why Choose A Budget Inflatable SUP Over an Epoxy/Traditional SUP?

First, inflatable paddle boards are generally cheaper compared to solid boards. So if you have a tight budget, an inflatable makes more sense. 

There are many quality inflatable SUPs under $500. Getting a good epoxy SUP in that price range will be hard. 

The other reason is that inflatable paddle boards are easy to transport and store. This is actually one of the main reasons why most paddlers will prefer an inflatable paddle board. 

iSUPs fold into small packages that can be stored and transported pretty much anywhere. You can’t say the same for a solid board. 

Inflatable paddle boards, including the inexpensive ones, come as a complete package. They come with everything you need to start paddling, except a life jacket. They are the better option if you want great value. 

Lastly, iSUPs are durable. They don’t get dented as easily as the solid stand up paddle boards. They handle impact well and can last a long time. 

Are Cheap Paddle Boards Any Good?

It depends. 

Some cheap paddle boards are no good while others are amazing–which is why it is important to be careful. 

In this price range, you will find poorly made paddle boards that don’t last. Their accessories are unreliable and barely function properly too. 

You will be looking for another paddle board in a few months or even weeks. 

But you can also find fantastic SUP boards on a tight budget. You just need to know how to find a good one. 

So here are the factors that should guide you. 

Final Thoughts: Best Cheap Paddle Boards for 2023

Stand up paddle boarding doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. The boards discussed here are some of the best cheap paddle boards you can come across. 

The iRocker Nautical 10’6 is a fantastic entry-level inflatable SUP. It’s even safe to say you get more than what you pay for. 

The paddle board comes with high-quality accessories that you won’t need to upgrade. I was impressed by the fiberglass paddle and the premium bag with a wheel option. 

It is made with durable construction and you can count on it to last. You will also love the attachment points that allow you to bring paddling gear.

If you are heavier and the Nautical 10’6 seems too small, I would recommend the Nautical 11’6. It has the same features as the 10’6 but it is longer and has a higher weight capacity.

You should consider the Roc inflatable SUP if your budget is super tight but you still want a good board. It is made by a USA family-owned company and lots of paddlers love it. 

The Roc iSUP has been around for years and its quality is remarkable. 

Do you have any questions? Feel free to ask below. Happy paddling!