Rating of the best SUP boards for surfers for 2022

Hot summer days are in full swing, which means it's time to master such a sport as SUP surfing. This is a kind of rowing, when a surfer, standing on a SUP board, moves through the water with the help of an oar. Supsurfing has several varieties - it can be a leisurely walk on the water, riding the waves, rowing at speed, whitewater rafting, as well as fitness or yoga. Each of the directions of stand-up surfing has its own boards, as well as additional equipment items that are worth considering in more detail.

Characteristics of SUP boards

SUP boards differ in several basic parameters:

• body shape;
• width;
• length;
• thickness;
• weight and volume;
• nose rocker.

Hull shape

There are only 2 main forms. Other varieties are derivative modifications from 2 main ones and combine mixed characteristics.

The first form is a wide flat body. This is a versatile option with good stability, suitable for classic and recreational SUP, as well as yoga or fitness.

The second shape is a narrow body, a V-shaped bottom that cuts through the water. Stability is less than the first option. This shape is necessary for speed, so the device is suitable for active sports, racing or touring.

Width

One of the most important features. The wider the SUP board, the more stability it will show. At the same time, the width also affects the speed - wide boards are much slower. Riders prefer narrow devices: they are maneuverable, develop great speed.The average width of a SUP board varies from 62 to 90 cm.

Wide models are also suitable for those who intend to take long walks on the water and who are just starting to master surfing or those who wish to practice SUP yoga. In addition, this type is suitable for people with a large physique.

The narrow body is designed for riders as well as experienced surfers.

Length

A short board (up to 10 feet) has great maneuverability, a long board (over 12 feet) develops high speed and is designed for rafting or fast movement over long distances.

As a rule, long boards have a smaller body width, while short boards, on the contrary, are wider. Special SUP boards up to 8 feet long are suitable for children. The 10 to 12 foot length is versatile and suitable for daily riding or yoga.

Thickness

Everything is simple here - the thicker the device, the more weight it can withstand and the higher its displacement (volume).

SUP boards 10 cm thick - thin, 12 cm - medium, 15 cm thick - thick.

Weight and volume

To maintain stability and stability, the SUP board must displace a certain amount of water according to the user's weight. Walking structures have a volume of 200 to 300 liters. Do not heavily load the deck, otherwise the speed of movement through the water will be significantly reduced.

Nose rocker

Rocker is a measure of how high the nose is raised. If the rocker is too small, then the front of the device will dive underwater.

If we are talking about an inflatable SUP board, then the indicator in question does not matter.

Types of SUP boards: hard or inflatable

Before choosing an inflatable or composite SUP board, you need to consider their differences, characteristics, main pros and cons.

Solid sup boards

Basically, such products are made of EPS foam wrapped with fiberglass and coated with epoxy resin. A board of this type is lightweight, durable, and its cost is affordable. Carbon fiber products are lighter and harder, but their price is much higher than those presented above. The most affordable boards are made of plastic, but at the same time they are quite heavy, and in terms of characteristics, plastic is inferior to other solid materials.

• performance - a solid SUP board moves quickly and smoothly over the surface of the water, while moving requires less effort compared to inflatable ones;
• variety of body shapes and sizes;
• stability - a firm surface provides a sense of stability both in pleasure riding and on waves, as it sinks slightly below the water surface;
• dimensions - on average, the length is from 2.5 meters, so a lot of space is needed for storage or transportation.

• fragility - despite the overall strength and reliability, a hard SUP board is susceptible to mechanical damage (its surface is easy to scratch, so it is not recommended to touch the stones with the body), and it will be especially difficult for beginner surfers to maneuver on reefs or in small bays.

Inflatable SUP boards

The most popular models. They are made from varieties of PVC and differ only in production technology. There are single-layer and double-layer inflatable.

A single-layer SUP board is 2 PVC layers connected by special threads. This type is suitable for everyday use.

The 2-ply SUP board is a single-ply version with an additional layer of PVC that is applied by hand. Such models are suitable for extreme surfing.Another option for a two-layer SUP board is with machine lamination. This manufacturing technology is still young, but very quickly gaining popularity. With machine lamination, the layers are not glued by hand, but with the help of a special press, resulting in a light but strong construction.

• compactness - unlike a solid model, an inflatable one can simply be deflated and neatly folded (in this form it fits in a small backpack, it is easy to transport, and storage does not require much space);

• strength - paradoxically, but an inflatable SUP board is not afraid of stones, unlike hard boards (PVC, from which it is made, has high strength and is not afraid of underwater obstacles);
• The cost of inflatable SUP boards is much lower than that of solid ones.

• thickness - inflatable boards have a fairly pronounced thickness, so they are not well suited for classic SUP surfing;
• capriciousness - you have to monitor such parameters as pressure, fin attachment, and also be attentive to weak points, for example, seams.

Varieties of SUP boards by purpose

Regarding the application, SUP boards are divided into 3 types:

1. All around. This is the most common type. These versatile designs feature rounded noses and a flat bottom. They are well suited for water trips, and are also recommended for beginner surfers.
2. Fitness/Touring. An intermediate option between a universal and racing SUP board. Such models have a large volume, so they can ride with children and even pets. The shape of the nose is pointed (elongated), so the device is suitable for swimming long distances.The thickness is average, the rails (side parts) are usually round or square, which ensures not only high speed, but also stability. The only fin allows you to perfectly keep the course.
3. Race SUP. Racing option for competitions or extreme sports. These boards have low maneuverability, so they are not designed for walking or classic surfing. But in comparison with other designs, Race-SUP develop more speed. The shape of the body is narrow (elongated), the nose is sharp, due to which she received the nickname "toothpick". The shape of the tail affects the speed, the feeling of stability, as well as the ease of making turns.

The cheapest SUP boards

GLADIATOR SUP 10’6″

The Gladiator line is an attractively priced inflatable SUP board from the Russian company DV-Extreme, which is manufactured in China. The production of boards is carried out according to classical technology. Finished models are of high quality. The main material is reinforced two-layer PVC. The kit includes paddle, leash, repair kit and backpack. As for the purpose, Gladiator boards are suitable for water trips, yoga or fitness.

The GLADIATOR SUP 10’6″ model is the most popular of the considered line. This is a versatile version with a length of 323 cm (10’6″) and a volume of 245 liters. The maximum weight of the rider is 85 kg with the declared 100 kg. The kit includes a paddle, a pump, a bag on wheels, a leash, a repair kit and three fins - a removable central one, two elastic side fins. The weight of the SUP board is 14.2 kg. The average cost is - 24,500 rubles.

• all details are well executed;
• high quality products;
• protective coating against ultraviolet;
• anti-slip carpet;
• affordable cost.

• not suitable for professionals.

ZRay X1

This is a versatile model that is ideal for beginners. Inflatable ZRay X1 develops good speed, designed for water trips or classic surfing on a small wave. An optimally balanced board is stable, strong and durable. All models of the ZRay line are produced on German equipment, the layers are soldered by machine. The SUP in question comes with a high pressure hand pump, paddle, backpack bag and fin protection. The length is 297 cm, the volume is 250 liters. The maximum rider weight is 120 kg. The average price is 24,800 rubles.

• decent quality;
• attractive price;
• strong material;
• suitable for beginner surfers.

• not identified.

Aqua Marina Rapid 9’6”

Boards of the Aqua Marina brand are produced using a special technology: by vertical stitching and lamination. This method made it possible to give the models additional rigidity. The company's products are distinguished by their bright design, variety of shapes and sizes. Suitable for beginners and those who feel confident on the waves.

The Rapid 9’6 is a short SUP board made in China with good maneuverability and high performance. The model shows good stability and has a solid construction, making it suitable for long-distance rafting, as well as surfing on high waves or mountain rivers. The case is wide, optimized. The Rapid 9'6 is equipped with four side fins and one central fin. The surface is covered with a mat with a diamond structure, providing the surfer with reliable stability.The model is also additionally equipped with built-in carrying handles. In the bow there is a luggage net. Length is 289 cm, volume - 289 liters. The weight is relatively small (only 10 kg). The maximum rider weight is 110 kg. The average cost of the model is 27,000 rubles.

• a wide selection of products;
• bright, attractive appearance;
• democratic price;
• material strength;
• modest weight.

• not identified.

F2 RIDE 11’5

F2 is a cult German company famous for the high quality of its products. For more than 40 years, F2 has been manufacturing products for extreme sports. When it comes to SUP boards, the company is a leader in the production of SUP boards. The range is rich in inflatable and hardboards, while all rigid models can be equipped with a windsurf sail.

The inflatable RIDE 11’5 is made of double-layer PVC with increased strength, has a tapered bow and a square stern, which provides good stability and decent speed. RIDE 11’5 demonstrates increased maneuverability, therefore it is suitable for long water trips, including sea trips. The model is suitable for beginners and advanced surfers. The maximum rider weight is 155 kg. Length is 350 cm, weight - 14 kg. The average cost is 36,930 rubles.

• high quality;
• stability;
• good rigidity;
• high-quality bonding materials.

• uncomfortable carrying case.

The best mid-range SUP boards

Inflatable board for windsurfing WindSup (Windsurf) Stormline Powermax 10.6

The leader in this group is a model of a Russian brand created in collaboration with Stormline Inflatable Seoul from South Korea. Stormline has established itself as a manufacturer of premium boards that are world class in quality. Distinctive features of inflatable SUP boards are imported components from South Korea and Germany, as well as unique patented production technologies - EdgingTape and Double Wall Double Layer.

The WindSup Stormline Powermax 10.6 model can be called universal. At 10.6 feet long, 81 cm wide and 15 cm thick, it is comfortable for both the beginner discovering the basics of windsurfing and the confident rider. If desired, the sail can be removed from the board and used as a regular SUP board for walking.

WindSup Stormline Powermax 10.6 has a well-adjusted geometry - hard-cut corners from the center to the stern, a smooth deck, a rounded bow, a special tail shape and an overall streamlined shape, which together provide high maneuverability, controllability in any water, stability, maximum water removal and the ability to reach high speeds. Permissible point weight of the rider is 120 kg. Length - 320 cm. Displacement - 300 liters. The average cost is 97,900 rubles (complete with a sail) and 54,900 rubles (without a sail).

WindSup Stormline Powermax 10.6 Unboxing Video:

• Small board weight;
• High quality materials of the board itself, as well as accessories;
• Good equipment;
• Extended warranty (3 years);
• Stylish design;
• High reliability, durability and stability.

• The relatively high cost of a board with a sail.

Unifiber TOURING ENDURANCE iSup 12’6”

This is a model of a Chinese company that produces inflatable SUP boards, as well as surf equipment - masts, hinges, sails. Boards are made using modern technologies from two-layer PVC and Drop Stitch material, which has a high density. Thanks to this, Unifiber boards are durable and wear-resistant. The range includes versatile models with the ability to mount a sail, as well as SUP boards for long walks, travel and active sports. The model under consideration belongs to the latter type.

TOURING ENDURANCE iSup 12’6” is a reliable and rigid board for long trips. The elongated shape provides high speed with good stability. The tail fin is adjustable, making it suitable for family outings, racing or rafting. The surface is covered with an anti-slip mat, the deck is equipped with a storage net. The weight is only 12.7 kg, the load capacity is 112 kg, and the displacement is 350 liters. The average price of a SUP board is 40,162 rubles.

• durable fin included;
• transport handles;
• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• Convenient backpack for storage or transportation.

• not detected.

D7 10'0-Style

The popular Russian company D7 produces light and durable surfboards with a bright and stylish design. The range includes devices positioned for surfing or windsurfing, as well as women's SUP boards designed with the female figure and center of gravity in mind.

A striking example of a female SUP board is the D7 10’0-Style model, which has an ergonomic shape and catchy design.It has a small weight - only 8.3 kg, is impact resistant and stable. The length is 305 cm, the maximum rider weight is 95 kg, and the volume is 200 liters. Includes carbon paddle, pump, repair kit, leash, wheel bag and fins. The average cost is - 43,500 rubles.

• maneuverability;
• holds course well;
• universal option for women;
• beautiful appearance.

• there are traces of glue on the surface.

Shark Sups 9’2 ALL ROUND SURF

The products of this Chinese brand optimally combine price and quality. The company's products have good adhesion, high rigidity, high load capacity, as well as catchy attractive design. The company's assortment includes boards for beginners, experienced surfers, as well as models for various types of water trips and sports. Shark Sups products are reliable, stable and practical. The 9’2 ALL ROUND SURF is designed for wave surfing. It has a moderate size, thin body (10 cm) and a narrow tail - these characteristics allow the SUP board to easily maneuver in the waves. The model is suitable for children, as well as riders with a light weight (7.05 kg) who can use the board to walk on calm water. The kit includes a pump, a paddle (carbon-nylon), a bag on wheels, a leash and a repair kit. The maximum rider weight is 80 kg, length - 280 cm, displacement - 167 liters. The average cost of the model is 55,800 rubles.

• good build quality;
• little weight;
• moderate dimensions;
• rich equipment;
• attractive design;
• suitable for children.

• the paddle needs improvement;
• The first time after purchase there is a smell of glue.

Anomy the way of Ricardo Cavolo 10’6

The products of the Spanish company Anomy are distinguished by their versatility and their own design: all models are made in different styles and decorated by famous artists. By purchasing the Anomy board, the surfer receives a real work of art. The production of boards combines innovative and classic traditional technologies. Models are resistant to ultraviolet radiation, demonstrate good maneuverability and smooth running.

Anomy the way of Ricardo Cavolo 10’6 has a striking design inspired by the unique work of artist Ricardo Cavolo. The board is a two-layer structure made of durable, wear-resistant materials. The protective coating of the deck and the bottom of the product reliably keeps the pattern from fading. The weight is small (15 kg), in addition, the model is equipped with a neoprene handle, which makes it easy to carry it with you, take it on trips or travels. The model is designed mainly for calm walks on the water. Anomy the way of Ricardo Cavolo 10’6 provides stability and stability in light seas. Length 360 cm, displacement 240 liters, maximum rider weight is 100 kg. The set includes paddle, leash, pump, removable fin, repair kit and backpack. The average price is 68,700 rubles.

• unique design;
• high quality materials;
• excellent maneuverability;
• compact dimensions;
• Sun protection.

• not identified.

Red Paddle 10’6″ Ride

The Chinese company Red Paddle specializes in the production of inflatable SUP boards, the quality of which is not inferior to the products of popular European brands. These are premium devices designed for surfing or windsurfing.They are suitable for a variety of water riding, racing, beginners and professionals.

The Red Paddle 10’6″ Ride is a versatile classic board suitable for family outings or cruising. Its size is the most popular and running. The SUP board is quite stiff, showing good acceleration and stability. The ultra-modern MSL (Monocoque Structural Laminate) technology is used in the manufacture, in which the second layer of fabric is glued by machine. This method allowed to reduce the weight of the product and increase the rigidity. The Titan Pump is included with the model, with which inflation is quick and effortless. The maximum allowable rider weight is 100 kg, length - 321 cm, volume - 240 liters. The weight of the product is small - 9.5 kg. The average cost is - 69,900 rubles.

• strong, well taped seams;
• bright design, resistant colors;
• no chemical smell;
• high quality.

• not identified.

The best premium boards

Inflatable board for sup-boarding STORMLINE ELITE PRO 11.6

The second representative of the Russian brand Stormline, created in collaboration with Stormline Inflatable Seoul from South Korea, in the ranking and the leader of the premium board group.

The Elite PRO 11.6 model is an absolute Stormline exclusive, worthy of the most sophisticated riders!

This SUP board is one of a kind! The board was released worldwide in a Stormline Elite Pro LIMITED EDITION of only 200 pieces. Each copy has a unique serial number, because the board is made by hand and by special order.Another feature of the Stormline Elite PRO 11.6 is its individual fantastic design, created by the famous artist Choi Sung Wok from South Korea.

Stormline Elite PRO 11.6 has a unique shape patented by the manufacturer - streamlined and curved, with a smoothly ending stern line and increased bow height. The smooth open deck allows for easy maneuvering and centrifugal turns, the rounded base for a smoother ride, and the balanced tail geometry for greater manoeuvrability.

The Elite PRO 11.6 also features high strength and stiffness. This was achieved through the use of high-density PVC fabric (1200 g/sq.m.), 3D weaving technology of the fabric itself and Dropstitch thread fastening technology.

The buyer of this SUP board receives not just equipment, but a whole range of features from the manufacturer:

• Membership in the Stormline club;
• Privileges from the brand, namely personal discounts on accessories (up to 10%), the opportunity to be the first to know about promotions and special offers;
• Opportunity to participate in annual SUP-boarding competitions for free.

Permissible rider weight - 180 kg. Length - 350 cm. Displacement - 350 liters. The average cost is 99,900 rubles.

• Unique patented board shape;
• Exclusive design;
• Production by special order;
• High quality materials of the board itself, as well as accessories;
• Rich equipment (for example, a carbon paddle);
• Extended warranty (3 years);
• More than 112 service centers serving the Stormline board under warranty throughout Russia;
• Multi-stage quality control during production;
• High build quality;
• Durability;
• Stability, maneuverability, high speed;
• A wide range of privileges from Stormline for the buyer.

• Relatively high cost.

Hyperfit Tigerhai S-32

This SUP board of the German brand was created with the direct participation of professionals and lovers of surfing and water activities. Thanks to this, it turned out to be as versatile as possible. Sup board suitable for different categories of users: from beginners and families with children to experienced athletes and fans of long rafting. Each has a handy feature. For example, a transparent viewing window for observing the underwater world is a unique solution that no other analogue has. Or as many as 2 cargo systems, so that you can take a maximum of things with you when traveling on water. Or an action camera mount at the front of the board to record your adventures.

The Hyperfit Sup-board is made using MSL technology - 2 layers of PVC are reinforced and soldered under pressure. Due to this, the structure is rigid and durable. The ribbed EVA coating keeps the rider stable and the removable fin improves the board's maneuverability. The set includes a convenient and reliable pump, a carrying bag, a strap for carrying an inflated SUP board and much more.

• Observation window.
• 2 attachment points for luggage.
• Action camera mount.
• MSL technology - 2 layers of reinforced PVC, pressure welded.
• Universal sizes.
• Lightweight paddle.
• Rich equipment with high-quality pump and carrying strap.

• Not detected.

Starboard iGO (TIKHINE) SHOUT ZEN 2019 (ASSORTED, 10’2″ x 31″ x 4.75″)

The Chinese company Starboard was founded by a professional windsurfer who personally tests each model made. The company is engaged in the production of sports equipment for swimming and water sports. The brand is an innovator, developing new production technologies and complementing its products with comfortable elements. These innovations include product carrying handles, full deck coverage and reinforced load points.

The Starboard iGO model is characterized by good mobility and maneuverability. A reliable board that develops good speed is suitable for riders weighing no more than 100 kg. Swimming and turning are comfortable thanks to the wide center section of the hull. The double layer of PVC is durable, the sidewalls are made of strong impact-resistant plastic. The board shows high stability and smooth sliding. SUP board is equipped with a handle, as well as a shoulder strap for carrying. In the bow there is a mesh for storage. Weight - 10.7 kg, length - 310 cm, and displacement - 225 liters. The average cost is 76,950 rubles.

• the price is fully consistent with the quality;
• high maneuverability;
• unique design;
• ergonomic shape.

• not detected.

BIC Sport CROSS FISH 12’0″

This is a model of a French company, suitable for riding on calm water: walking, doing yoga or fitness, fishing (devices for fastening fishing gear are located along the sides). This is a hybrid board that combines versatility and stability. It is suitable for beginner surfers, travelers and family surfers. The model is easy to transport due to its low weight - 22 kg.The deck surface is equipped with a non-slip mat. The nose is equipped with a cargo system for transporting things. Length - 365 cm, volume - 350 liters. The average cost is - 81,000 rubles.

• excellent workmanship
• ease of transportation;
• value for money.

• not identified.

Jobe Aero Sup 11’6 Package

The boards of the Chinese brand Jobe have good maneuverability, speed and lightness. The average weight is only 7.2 kg, which makes the product portable, in addition, women or children can use the board. The company's products are suitable for experienced and novice surfers.

The Aero Sup 11’6 Package has a narrow nose that allows you to develop good speed and walk long distances. At the same time, Aero Sup provides stability, additionally equipped with a convenient system for attaching things to the bow and tail. Load capacity: 120 kg, displacement - 317 l, length is 350 cm. The kit includes a collapsible aluminum paddle, pump, leash and backpack. The average cost is - 95,599 rubles.

• little weight;
• good equipment;
• high speed;
• excellent maneuverability;
• high build quality.

• high price.

How to choose a surfboard

There are the following types of boards for SUP-surfing, which differ from each other in such characteristics as the type of construction, width and length:

• A shortboard is a thin board.
• Fanboard - medium size.
• A longboard is a long, thick SUP board.
• Gan - no more than 10 feet long.
• Toe-in - designed for big waves.
• Fish - a board with a forked tail, equipped with several fins.
• The soft top is ideal for the beginner rider.

When choosing a board, you should pay special attention to the following indicators:

• Length. A beginner surfer is more suited to a long and stable SUP board with good maneuverability.
• Surface coating. The thick resin layer provides high strength of the model, but also adds weight to it.
• Reinforcing rib. With it, the boards are much stronger and more reliable.
• Tail shape. The square tail provides high speed and good maneuverability. Round is more suitable for experienced riders. The nose in the form of "Fish" is designed for gentle as well as foamy waves.
• Nose shape. A narrower one is necessary for high-speed models, and for steep waves, a SUP board with a thin, curved nose is suitable.
• Fin. This element is responsible for the maneuverability of the SUP board. The main (central) fin allows you to make turns in small waves or flat waves. Lateral are responsible for direct movement through the water.
• Additional amenities. It will not be superfluous to have an anti-slip mat, comfortable carrying handles, storage systems and other elements responsible for the comfort of the surfer.

No matter how experienced a surfer is, a wide variety of SUP boards to choose from makes it possible to find the best option for any skill level. It remains only to choose the best option and enjoy all summer boat trips, rafting, racing or just riding with the whole family.