Inflatable vs. Rigid Paddle Board Comparison

In the world of Stand-Up Paddle, there are doubts when it comes to choosing a paddle surf board that suits the needs of each user. Many are those who debate on the type of SUP to buy, with the eternal comparison of inflatable vs. rigid paddle surfboard.

In this post we clarify all the questions you may have if you are hesitating between buying an inflatable paddle surfboard or a rigid board. Both have their pros and cons, and are aspects that should be carefully assessed before making a purchase decision. For this reason, we always recommend taking a few minutes to learn about the characteristics and differences of both types of boards.

Main structural differences of inflatable vs. rigid paddle surfers

The structural differences of an inflatable vs. rigid paddle surfboard are in the material they are made of, the weight and size. Our inflatable boards are made with military grade PVC coating and "Dropstitch" composite, a technology that consists of joining two panels by means of thousands of polyester threads. Its advantage is that it provides great rigidity to the SUP when it is inflated to high pressures.

Meanwhile, rigid paddle surfboards are generally made of materials such as fiberglass, epoxy or carbon fiber. This gives them great rigidity, but also makes them less resistant to shocks and affects their weight, which is another difference in their shape and construction.

Paddle board weight is also different between inflatable and rigid boards. While inflatable SUPs weigh between 9 kg and 15 kg, depending on the model and size, rigid boards increase the weight to over 20 kg in some cases, a factor that negatively affects transport and maneuverability out of the water.

The other major structural difference found in an inflatable vs rigid paddle surf is its size. The measurements of a paddle surf board can be identical regardless of the type of SUP it is. However, a rigid model achieves the same structural strength with less thickness than an inflatable board. This is why rigid boards are usually thinner than inflatable boards. Here you can learn to differentiate and identify the parts of a paddle surf.

Advantages of the inflatable paddle surf

These are the main advantages of inflatable paddle surfboards:

• Easy to store: inflatable paddle surfboards are easier to store at home or in a storage room. Once deflated, just put it in its backpack and you can store it anywhere. Even inside a closet.
• Convenience in transportation: as it can be deflated and stored in the backpack, it is also easier to transport, both on foot and in a vehicle. In addition, you can check it on a plane, it fits in an elevator and you can take it with you if you travel by train or bus.
• Lighter: its PVC-based construction helps reduce the weight of the board. Inflatable models weigh between 9 kg and 15 kg, so it is also easy to carry from one place to another thanks to the backpack, handle and carrying strap.
• High resistance: as they are made of soft materials and high resistance coatings, inflatable boards are more resistant to wear and tear and possible shocks. In addition, their edges (rails) resist the friction of the paddle, while rigid boards need specific protection.
• Safe from falls: precisely this soft construction makes them safer boards. In the event of a fall and impact with the board, this soft surface will prevent damage or injury.
• Very versatile: inflatable paddle surfboards adapt to any type of water and level of experience. Therefore, they are ideal for users who are just starting out in this sport and for children, given their lightness and maneuverability. In addition, they can be converted into a kayak in a matter of minutes, allowing you to enjoy an alternative activity.
• Ideal for activities and pets: inflatable boards are perfect for water activities such as SUP Yoga or SUP Fishing. Their soft and grippy surfaces help us to practice these modalities, in addition to enjoying a day on the water with your dog.
• Low maintenance: care is basic for inflatable SUPs. They only require sweetening after each use and a thorough cleaning before storage. Discover how to clean your inflatable paddle surf board step by step.
• More economical: inflatable paddle surfboards have prices that are usually lower than those of rigid boards. There are models that can be very expensive, but they will always have a lower price than a rigid model.

Advantages of rigid paddle surfing

These are the advantages of rigid paddle surfboards:

• Less thickness: rigid boards are thinner for the same size. This has to do with their construction, so they are thinner without affecting the stability or maximum weight they can support.
• More rigidity: rigid boards are made of materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, as well as epoxy. This gives them greater structural rigidity, which prevents the board from flexing when sailing in rough waters.
• Greater stability: due to their thickness and stiffness, this type of board also offers greater stability on the water. They achieve this without increasing the width of the SUP, so they are usually narrower than inflatable boards.
• Better performance: in paddle surfing, a rigid board always provides greater agility, speed of navigation and behavior in the water. It is for these characteristics that rigid paddle boards are so widely used in the SUP Surf and SUP Race modalities.
• Usability: another of the advantages of rigid paddle surfboards lies in their ease of use and availability. They do not require a previous inflation process nor do you have to empty them to store them in your backpack. Also, not being inflatable eliminates the risk of punctures or valve problems. Even if you don't worry about air leaks, here's how to fix a puncture on your board.
• Ideal for experienced users: if you are one of those who have been paddle surfing for a long time and have an advanced level of experience, rigid boards are usually a more recommendable option for their performance and versatility. They are also the most used boards in Stand-Up Paddle competitions.

Inflatable vs. rigid paddle surf: which one to choose according to your level and use?

The level of experience also influences this inflatable vs. rigid paddle surf battle. Depending on the practice and the use you are going to make of the board, it is advisable to choose one type of SUP or another. The two types do not offer the same in terms of performance, usability or versatility.

If you are going to start paddle surfing or you have a beginner level, the most recommended option is an inflatable paddle surf board. Also, if there are children who are going to use the SUP (remember that the minimum recommended age is 12 years old). This does not mean that you should not use an inflatable board if you have a certain level of experience, but for those first steps -or paddles- it is always better to use an inflatable model.

On the other hand, if you are already an expert user and practice more specific modalities, such as SUP Surf, a rigid paddle surf board is more recommendable. This type of paddle board offers a different performance and maneuverability, which helps the user to extract its full potential.

However, depending on the use you are going to make of the board, it may be more advisable to use an inflatable board or a rigid board. If you are going to use the SUP on vacations or weekends, with a more recreational use and you want to practice activities or sail with your pet, an inflatable board is better.

It is also the most recommended option if you have less storage space or do not have a van type vehicle where you can carry it, although you can always transport the board on the roof rack of the car. In addition, if you are going to travel with the SUP on public transport, the inflatable model is the one you will find the least obstacles.

On the other hand, if you are going to make a more intensive and professional use of the board, touring long crossings or practicing any of the modalities offered by paddle surfing at a competitive level, the rigid SUP is the most advisable option.

Keep in mind that you will need space for storage and a travel cover if you are going to carry it on the roof rack of the car, and don't forget the acquisition costs and that it is a type of board that requires specific care.

Transportation and storage

The transport and storage of the board is a factor to take into account if you are hesitating between inflatable vs. rigid paddle surf. Inflatable boards are more practical and comfortable in this aspect. Once all the air is extracted from inside, they can be rolled up and stored in the backpack, which makes it easier to carry it from one place to another and store it at home.

The same goes for carrying it in the car or on public transport. Inflatable boards can be transported comfortably in your backpack, which does not take up too much space, so you can carry it in the trunk or in the luggage compartments of buses and trains. They can even be checked in on airplanes.

On the other hand, rigid boards are less practical when it comes to transporting them in a vehicle, as it will require a van to carry it inside or a roof rack. It is difficult to fit them in an elevator and finding a place at home to store them is not always easy. If you have a storage room or garage, secure it so it can't fall off during the months when you won't be using it.

Durability and maintenance

Finally, durability and maintenance is another key aspect in the differences between inflatable and rigid paddle surfboards. Inflatable boards offer greater resistance to shocks and better withstand the friction that occurs on the sides when paddling.

Our boards are made of military grade PVC and are reinforced to ensure durability. Although there is the possibility of suffering a puncture or air leak, elements that are easily solved with the repair kit included with the board.

Meanwhile, rigid paddle surfboards offer more long-term durability, but are more sensitive to shocks and possible falls. The edges are a weak point in their construction, so they require specific care to avoid dents, chips and nicks.

Basic maintenance of both boards includes sweetening after use and cleaning before storage to prevent mold and mildew due to humidity. Avoid leaving the board in direct sunlight for hours at a time.

For inflatable SUPs, it is recommended to make sure that the valve does not leak and that the porous surfaces, such as the EVA rubber, the handle or the leash, are dry before storing it in the backpack, as well as that there are no traces of moisture on the inside.

Rigid boards, on the other hand, require a little more maintenance, especially after the appearance of possible damage to the edges as a result of use or blows. Depending on the material, you can do this yourself using specific resins. If this is not possible or you do not feel confident enough, you will have to use the services of a professional.

Regardless of the type of board you have, paddle surfing is a sport that is characterized by its great adaptability, as it can be practiced by all types of users, regardless of their age and experience.

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