The Best Cheap Paddle Board: 10 Quality Picks [2023] — Adventure In You

Searching for the best cheap paddle board? Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get a high-quality SUP. Most of the best budget paddle boards on the market can be found for under $500, and as long as you know what to look for, these boards will perform just as well as one that costs thousands.

Stand up paddle boarding is an ever-growing sport with an ever-growing supply of boards. As a beginner (or an experienced paddler looking for an upgrade) it can be overwhelming looking at all the options out there.

But fear not, we’re here to save you time and money with a list of the ten best cheap paddle boards around in 2023, along with some tips and tricks to help you decide which SUP is best for you.

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Quick Answer: Best Cheap Paddle Boards

10 Best Cheap Paddle Boards

We’ve done the groundwork for you and scoured the web for the ten best cheap paddle boards. All that’s left for you to do is check out the features and decide which one is right for you!

Weight: 17.5 lbs | Length: 10′ | Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 300 lbs

Taking the number one spot for the best cheap paddle board on your list is this inflatable SUP from Roc.

Popular with paddlers for its high-quality construction and materials, including military-grade PVC and DuraWeld technology, this is a durable inflatable paddle board that can take on some serious wear and tear. It’s also super lightweight and has an impressive weight capacity of 300 pounds.

The width and thickness combined with the heavy-duty construction make this stable all-around SUP one of the best budget paddle boards for beginners, and the price is just right.

Other noteworthy features of this board include a large, EVA foam deck pad and an impressive accessory pack.

The price tag of this budget board has been known to fluctuate, so you may want to consider snagging one while the price remains low!

Weight: 27 lbs | Length: 10′ | Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 209 lbs

Features: Convertible to kayak | 2 layers of PVC w/ drop-stitch construction | Aluminum paddle | Travel bag | Removable fin

Simple yet versatile, this inflatable SUP from Bestway is one of the best cheap paddle boards available. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth with this one, as the accessory pack is fully loaded with an attachable seat and footrest for when you want to switch it over to kayak mode.

At ten feet long and four inches thick, this inflatable paddle board works best for smaller paddlers. That being said, the weight limit is just over 200 pounds, so as long as you don’t exceed that, you’ll find this board to be plenty stable.

It’s made from military-grade PVC with double drop-stitch construction, so this is one of the best budget paddle boards for those who might take their board through the wringer (intentionally or not) – beginners, we’re looking at you!

As this board was made with newbies in mind, you probably won’t win any races. However, if you’re interested in a comfortable, stable SUP, this is a great option at a budget price.

Weight: 19.8 lbs | Length: 10′ 6″ | Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 330 lbs

Sporty paddlers looking for the best cheap paddle board need not look any further. This inflatable SUP from Dama checks all the boxes of a good sport SUP.

The V-shaped nose and narrow tail allow it to cut through waves with speed and ease. Although narrower at the front and rear, the middle of the board is still plenty wide to offer top-notch stability for beginners and yoga lovers alike. There’s even a camera mount if you want to record your session!

This inflatable paddle board is made with a light-weight military-grade PVC, and the faux wood design assures that you will be paddling in style. The accessory pack is fully loaded with some enticing extras, including a waterproof phone bag a dry pack, and the backpack storage bag makes for easy transportation to and from the water.

We’ve really got nothing bad to say, this is one of the best budget paddle boards around!

Read More: 10 Best Wetsuits For Paddle Boarding in 2023

Weight: 20 lbs | Length: 11′ 6″ | Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 240 lbs

The most expensive option on our list (which isn’t saying much because it’s still under $550) is still one of the best cheap paddle boards you will find. iRocker is beloved by paddlers, and the Nautical is one of their best (and cheapest) SUPs.

This budget board has the perfect dimensions for touring, yoga, or paddling with a pal, and its pointed nose allows it to take on some chop while remaining nice and stable. This makes it a great all-around board, though beginners may have a hard time maneuvering it due to its long length.

High-quality materials like dual military-grade drop stitch make this inflatable paddle board tough as nails, so feel free to use and abuse it without fear of dents or dings.

Other features worth mentioning include lots of D-rings for attachments, an adjustable fiberglass paddle, and three carrying handles – which can really come in handy if you’ve got a lot of gear on board.

Warning: you may feel like you’ve committed a crime after you buy this SUP because this high of quality at this price point is a steal!

Weight: 19.6 lbs | Length: 10′ 6″ | Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 275 lbs

One of the most popular and best cheap paddle boards on the market is this inflatable SUP from SereneLife.

Unfortunately, it’s not quite as stable as some of the other best budget paddle boards on our list, so we don’t recommend it for beginners. Small and intermediate paddlers should however find this to be a good quality board, and the pointed nose will get you through any chop without a problem.

Other redeemable features of this board include high-quality construction and military-grade PVC, a long, soft EVA foam deck, and a premium accessory pack that includes a handy backpack carrier.

Weight: 25 lbs | Length: 11′ | Width: 33″ | Max Capacity: 305 lbs

Designed with adventure in mind, this inflatable SUP is one of the best cheap paddle boards for exploring on the water.

It’s one of the most rigid inflatable paddle boards around, and it’s also nice and wide, which makes it a stable option for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike.

Due to its long length and V-shaped nose, it can glide across the water with ease. A small tail kick adds additional balance, control, and maneuverability to this board.

One of the best things about this budget paddle board is its high-quality construction. Layers of tarpaulin and PVC make this bad boy extremely durable yet surprisingly lightweight.

The accessory pack includes a dry bag and leash, but the bag itself could use an upgrade. That being said, if you’re not walking too far with your board this shouldn’t be an issue.

Weight: 17 lbs | Length: 11′ | Width: 33″ | Max Capacity: 350 lbs

Paddlers looking for an all-around board with impeccable value will likely consider this SUP from XYLOVE to be the best cheap paddle board on the market.

It’s made from the same durable, lightweight material as some of the more expensive boards, and it comes with everything you’ll need for a successful day out on the water.

This inflatable paddle board is rigid yet lightweight and can hold up to 350 pounds. At 11 feet, it’s great for more experienced paddlers, and the narrow nose and fin make cutting through choppy waters a breeze.

The textured EVA deck pad allows for comfort and balance, perfect for yoga or those who want to bring a furry friend along on their cruise.

Another perk of this budget board is that all three fins are removable, making it great for whatever kind of activity you hope to perform out on the water.

Weight: 22 lbs | Length: 10′ | Width: 30″ | Max Capacity: 280 lbs

Features: Non-slip soft top deck | Triple bottom panel fins | Premium alloy paddle | Coiled ankle cuff | Carry bag

Beginners searching for the best cheap paddle board would be hard-pressed to find a better option than this inflatable SUP from FBSport.

The dimensions are perfect for someone who is just starting out, offering plenty of stability and balance. You won’t have to worry about any dents or dings either, as this inflatable paddle board is made from top-notch, military-grade material. It’s also anti-aging and UV protecting, so it’ll last for many years, no matter what kind of conditions you put it in.

Other features that make this one of the best budget paddle boards include its soft non-slip decking, its large bungee storage area, and the three removable fins.

It comes with everything you’ll need for a successful day out on the water, including a handy carrying backpack, an adjustable paddle, a leash, and a pump. Some paddlers report that inflating the board is a workout in itself, so if you’re not looking to get a cardio session in before you even hit the water you may need to upgrade to a better pump.

Weight: 25 lbs | Length: 10′ | Width: 31.5″ | Max Capacity: 240 lbs

Price and performance are two of the qualities that make this SUP one of the best cheap paddle boards on the market.

High-grade military PVC and Korean drop stitch technology make this bad boy rigid and durable, and if you do happen to take a tumble, the soft traction pad will offer you at least some protection.

This inflatable paddle board is made to handle all sorts of conditions. The narrow nose can cut through chop, and the single fin is great for tracking on flat waters and gaining speed.

At just under ten feet long, this board isn’t great for larger paddlers, but it’s certainly good for those who are smaller (like teens and young adults) and beginners.

Weight: 17.6 lbs | Length: 10′ 6″ | Width: 33″ | Max Capacity: 330 lbs

Rounding out our list of the ten best cheap paddle boards is this inflatable SUP from FunWater.

This is one of the best budget paddle boards for touring thanks to its V-shaped nose and narrow tail. It’s also a great board for beginners, as it’s wide and thick enough to offer lots of stability.

The high-quality PVC makes this inflatable board rigid and durable while keeping it extremely lightweight – under 18 pounds! Although lightweight, this SUP can still holp up to a whopping 330 pounds, so there’s plenty of room for any gear or furry friends you may want to bring along.

All three fins on this board are removable, so you can use all of them to aid in maneuverability and stability, or just stick with the center fin for better tracking and speed.

How to Choose to Best Budget Paddle Board

The best budget paddle boards will provide you with the same fun experience as their expensive counterparts. That being said, with some of the cheaper boards on the market, you will get what you pay for.

Check out these considerations before deciding which is the best cheap paddle board for you.

A man on paddles on a calm lake on a beautiful summer day

Type

What do you hope to accomplish while you’re out on the water? Practicing yoga, riding waves, and casual cruises are all possible with a paddle board, but the type of board you buy will determine the type of activities that are possible.

Touring boards are long and narrow, with a V-shaped nose and a narrow tail. They’ll likely have the option for a single fin, and lots of bungee storage. These SUPS are best for those who are looking to travel long distances or get where they’re going fast.

A sport board will allow you to do yoga, fish, or surf, and the configuration will be different for each activity.

A good yoga board will have plenty of room to stretch out and a long, soft deck pad. A board made for fishing might have extras like pole holders, an attachment for a kayak seat, and enough space for a cooler and other gear.

Paddle boards that are made for surfing are generally shorter and thinner, making them less stable, and therefore only a viable option for more experienced paddlers.

It may be hard to find a budget board geared toward a specific sport, but many all-around boards will suffice for various activities.

All-around paddle boards are also great for beginners because they offer solid stability, fully stocked accessory kits, and work well in most types of water. Many budget SUPs are all-around boards and will work well for almost any activity.

Stability

Stability is an important factor when you’re picking out the best cheap budget paddle board. The more stable you are, the more time you’ll spend on the board rather than in the water. This is especially true for beginners who are just learning the ropes.

Inflatable paddle boards are actually more stable than hard boards in general, and luckily, they are also some of the best budget paddle boards. Other features to look for in a stable board include a triple fin configuration and a wide, flat hull.

Size and Weight

The size and shape of your board are also going to directly affect how stable it is.

Most SUPs fall in the range of 9-14 feet in length, and the best budget paddle boards tend to be between 10-12 feet. This size is perfect for beginners because the shorter the board, the more maneuverability you’ll have.

Width is also key for stability. You’ll have the best chance of standing up and staying on the board when it’s wider. The minimum width you should look for is 30 inches, but the wider the board the better

The board’s thickness should not be overlooked, as this is also a main factor when it comes to a SUP’s stability. Six inches is the standard of most inflatable paddle boards, and anything less than that will probably not be as rigid, especially for heavier paddlers.

Construction

Just because you’re in the market for the best cheap paddle board doesn’t mean that you’ll have to go with something that is made with low-quality materials.

Many of the best budget paddle boards are made with high-quality, military-grade PVC that will easily outlast a hard board. This material is virtually indestructible, so there’s no need to worry about any dents or dings.

Don’t forget to check out the deck pad in addition to the other materials of the SUP. You’ll want to find something soft with good traction to help you stay balanced and bruise-free while you’re out on the water.

Versatility

As mentioned above, many of the best cheap stand up paddle boards are all-around SUPs. This makes them extremely versatile, further increasing the value of your budget board. You’ll get all your money’s worth when you can use your board for more than one activity and in more than one type of water.

Many SUPs can also be converted into kayaks if they have the right hardware, so pay attention to the specs if you’re hoping to get even more use out of your board.

Tips for Using a Cheap Paddle Board

Here are some main tips to keep in mind when it comes to cruising around on a budget SUP.

Woman paddling sup with a splashing water

Accessories

When you’re on the hunt for the best cheap paddle board, don’t forget to look at the accessory pack that comes with it. Good accessories can have a big impact on your overall experience and save you money in the long run as well.

Many budget boards have their fair share of impressive ad-ons, so keep your eyes peeled for fiberglass paddles, dual-chamber pumps, dry bags, and a backpack carrier bag (bonus points if it has wheels!).

Even if your accessory pack doesn’t check all of these boxes, it’s cheaper to replace a few of the items than to purchase everything separately.

Safety

You’ll also want to make sure that your board’s accessory pack has a leash included. Safety is key when you’re out on the water, and a leash will keep you close to your board if you fall into the water.

Trust us, you do not want to have to swim after your board. This is especially important for beginners and those who are taking on rough waters.

Another aspect of staying safe while you’re out on the water is making sure you stay afloat when you fall off. Even if you’re an experienced paddler, a good swimmer, or paddling in slow, shallow water, wear your PFD!

Weather and Water Conditions

The thing about budget boards is they perform best in calm wind and water. Even the best cheap paddle boards won’t be able to handle extreme water or weather as well as a premium paddle board, so always check the forecast and conditions before you head out.

If you do feel like braving the storm with your budget board, stick to areas that you’ve paddled in before so you’re not going into a completely new situation.

Rain or shine, always be sure to tell someone where you’re going, especially if you’re paddling solo.

Skill level

Your skill level will have a lot to do with how well your budget board performs. Cheap SUPs with subpar tracking will steer straight if you’ve got your paddle stroke down, and longer boards will be easier to turn if you know how to do a step-back turn.

There are plenty of good budget paddle boards out there for beginners, but usually, the more skilled you are, the more you’ll be able to accomplish with any type of board.

Once you know that a hefty price tag doesn’t always translate to a better paddle board, it’s easy to find a high-quality SUP that won’t leave your pocketbook feeling too light.

Oftentimes inflatable paddle boards are the cheapest, most durable, and lightest boards you can find.

Even if you’ve got your heart set on a specific model, chances are once a new season rolls around a new model will be released and the one your heart desires will be discounted.

If you’ve got the time to check out all the specs (or the patience to wait for your dream board), you’ll have no problem finding the best budget paddle board for your lifestyle. Happy Paddling!

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