Stand Up Paddleboards: Hard vs. Soft Boards
Stand up paddle (SUP) boarding has become an extremely popular sport in the last 5 years, with the industry having grown 500% since 2018.
If you’re looking to take part and shop for a paddle board of your own, it’s important you know the advantages and disadvantages of inflatable and hard paddle boards.
Once you know the board that’s best for you, shop from a reputable retailer. Get On The Water boards are guaranteed high-quality products which ensure they’ll last you years.
For deciding which SUP board best suits your needs, this article has you covered; read on for more information.
Hard Paddle Boards: Advantages
Performance
Due to their rigid surface, hard boards are more efficient at cutting through the water. This results in better speed, agility and handling overall, offering a more responsive experience.
Hard SUP boards tend to be the product of choice for competitive stand up paddle racing as a result.
Durability
A hard paddleboard is far less likely to sustain heavy damage from sharp rocks or debris compared to inflatable SUP boards.
They can still be damaged or scratched in these cases, but this is unlikely to compromise its usage.
Better for Surfing
Due to the better responsiveness of hard boards, they are ideal for paddleboard surfing and more advanced boarding techniques.
They generally offer much better manoeuvrability and stability over waves and rougher waters.
No Inflation Required
One of the obvious benefits is that paddlers don’t need to spend time tiring out their arms to inflate their boards.
After you arrive at the beach, river or lake, you’re ready to get in the water and start your adventure.
Hard Paddle Boards: Disadvantages
Storage and Transport
Hard boards don’t have the advantage of being deflated and packed down. They’re bulkier and heavier, so you’ll need a roof rack and straps to transport them.
Price
Designed to navigate surf and rougher waters, these boards tend to be more expensive due to their quality build.
It’s a big up-front price, but if you have a real passion and love SUP boarding, it might be worth the investment.
Fragility to Impact
While they are more resistant to scratches, hard boards can be more significantly damaged when dropped or colliding with rocks.
Soft/Inflatable Paddle Boards: Advantages
Portability
One of the most noteworthy advantages of inflatable boards is that they are designed to be deflated and stored in backpacks.
This makes transporting them and storing them at home much easier.
Durability
Conversely to hard boards, inflatables can handle drops or impacts with ease. They will usually shrug off bumps and scrapes unless something punctures the rubber.
Great for Beginners
Inflatables are ideal for beginner paddlers, as they are usually wider and thicker. This offers greater stability and a more easy experience while at a lower skill level.
They are also lighter and softer, making them better for children. They will more likely be able to carry them without trouble and avoid injury if capsizing.
Versatility
Inflating boards perform adequately in a number of environments, meaning they are a good all-around option.
These types of SUP boards also come in a wide range of choices, varying in style, brands, sizes and more so anyone can find a product for them.
Soft/Inflatable Paddle Boards: Disadvantages
Performance
Inflating boards lack the same speed and agility as hard boards when on the water. They will usually be much slower and more cumbersome to steer.
Inflation Time
Inflating a paddleboard can take between 5-15 minutes, depending on its size.
Not only does this mean that it takes longer to get on the water, but it can also be quite tiring before you’ve even begun your sport.
Vulnerability to Punctures
These boards are highly susceptible to punctures if they forcefully collide with rocks or are improperly stored.
While it is possible to repair punctures with puncture repair kits, the likelihood that the hole will re-open with use is high.
Less Responsive
Due to their lower responsiveness, inflating boards are not recommended to surf with.
Not only are they harder to manoeuvre on the water, but they are also more likely to sustain damage in rougher conditions.
Weight Capacity Limitations
Unfortunately, not everybody will be able to take advantage of inflating SUP boards.
Due to the nature of their build, they will not be able to carry heavier paddlers reliably without risk of breakage.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve read this article on the differing strengths of hard and soft paddle boards, you can shop for your own with confidence.
Ask yourself; are you more likely to want to surf on your SUP board? Or would you use it on rivers, lakes and the sea? Is manoeuvrability or easy storage a priority?
Think about this range of questions and you’re bound to find the product for you using the information in this article.
