Best Paddle Boards Under 500 in 2022

Finding something in the budget range is always challenging and it doesn’t matter whether you are finding laptops or paddleboards because looking for the essential facilities without getting out of a budget range is always a challenge. Speaking of paddleboards, they are often expensive and, if someone is new to paddleboarding, he might look for a budget paddleboard.

So, if you’re on a similar journey and you need some help in finding a budget range paddleboard, then we are here for you. Today, we have gathered a list of the best paddle boards under 500 dollars. We have extensively researched and tested the budget range paddleboards and finally; we have compiled a list of the top 5 entries. So, if you’re looking for a SUP clearance sale, then all the entries in today’s list will be suitable for you. But that’s not it.

We will also give you a few pointers that will come in handy for choosing the right paddleboard according to your needs. And lastly, we will answer the most commonly asked questions regarding paddleboards. So, without any further delay, let’s begin today’s discussion.

List for the Best Paddle Boards Under 500:

Keep in mind that we have strictly followed the $500 price range. So, if you’re looking for the best inflatable paddle boards under $1000 or the best SUP under $1000, then this list is not for you.

So, without any further delay, let’s get to the list.

1.     ROC iSUP

The first entry on our list for the best paddle boards under 500 is an excellent and easy-to-use iSUP that offers excellent value. Its name is ROC Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (iSUP). So, let’s take an in-depth look at this paddleboard and see the features that make this paddleboard worthy of being the first contender on this list.

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 10-feet Width: 33-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 17.5 lbs. Package Dimensions: ‎  33 x 16.2 x 12.2-inches

In-Depth Review:

ROC SUP Co. has built this inflatable SUP as a rock with the help of military-grade material. Therefore, this iSUP can last a lifetime. The military-grade material of this iSUP allows the users to maneuver this paddleboard easily and its diamond EVA deck pad provides a good grip and brings comfort while standing on it. Hence, your experience level won’t be an issue while paddle boarding with this iSUP.

Like most iSUPs we have tested so far, this one also comes as a complete package and it’s a major plus point for iSUP users because companies are providing comprehensive accessories packs in this price range. So, you have got a coil safety leash, collapsible aluminum paddle, hand pump, and three (one removable and two fixed) fins with it. This inflatable paddle board also includes a waterproof bag and an upgraded backpack. However, the included backpack is not as reliable as other accessories because it is made from an easy-to-tear material.

The ROC inflatable paddleboard is highly durable and its durability comes from its rock-like manufacturing. But despite its rock-like manufacturing, this paddleboard is the lightest entry on our list because it weighs only 17.5 pounds. So, if you’re someone who has a problem with handling heavy weights and you’re looking for a budget iSUP, this one is perfect for you.

This iSUP is not only durable but is also a reliable entity and its reliability comes from a double-layered deck, a reinforced core, three fins, and a UV resistant coating. So, you can attach the fins with a plastic clip and the clip will hold the fin securely in its place. This paddle board is one of the few options that use a three-layer PVC laminate technology for under $500. So, it’s a great value iSUP at this price point because you can’t puncture or scratch it easily.

2. ADVENOR Paddle Board 11’x33 x6 Extra Wide iSUP – Amazon’s Choice

The second spot is the best paddle board under 300 on this list. Its name is ADVENOR iSUP. The company claims that this is one of the widest iSUPs on the market because its width is 33-inches. However, let’s see our opinion about this iSUP.

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 11-feet Width: 33-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight:28.5 lbs. Package Dimensions: ‎ ‎35.5 x 13.5 x 8.5-inches

In-Depth Review:

ADVENOR has designed this extra wide and longer paddleboard for better balance and stability. Despite being the second-longest entry on the best SUP boards under 500 list, this iSUP only weighs 29.1 pounds. So, it’s a good option for transporting because you won’t have to carry a heavy inflatable paddleboard.

This inflatable paddleboard has a non-slippery EVA deck pad, which is not only made of high-quality material but also soft enough to stand out and provides a good grip to the bare feet. The long bottom fins keep the board steady in the water. Plus, the three detachable fins improve the overall stability and speed of this iSUP.

You can use this iSUP for fishing on paddleboards, exercises on paddleboards, and paddleboarding in ocean/lakes/rivers. So, you’re getting an all-in-one solution for most of your paddle boarding needs. However, you should not compare its paddle boarding quality in different conditions with the premium iSUPs because of the difference in the price points.

Like most paddleboards we have seen, this one also comes with a double-action hand pump. So, you can quickly deflate or inflate this iSUP. Apart from the double action hand pump, you will find a complete accessories pack with this iSUP, including an adjustable aluminum paddle, repair kit, safety leash, three removable fins, waterproof bag, and upgraded backpack. However, the quality of the bag is pretty cheap, which is acceptable at this price point.

3.     SereneLife iSUP – Amazon’s Choices

The third entry on our list is the best inflatable paddle board under $400. Its name is SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board. This iSUP is perfect for adventurers and there are several reasons for it. So, let’s see those reasons through its features and benefits.

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 10-feet, 6-inches Width: 32-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 19.6 lbs. Package Dimensions: ‎  36.6 x 17.2 x 10.2-inches

In-Depth Review:

SereneLife has designed this paddleboard by keeping the ease of use in mind and its inflating procedure is the live proof of it. You will just have to plug the pump in the air valve and keep inflating until the pressure gauge on the pump reaches the green zone. Once done, then you can detach the pump without worrying about escaping air. So, it is the first plus point of this iSUP.

This paddleboard comes with an entry-level accessories pack (in terms of quality), including a 9-inch detachable board fin, coiled ankle cuff safety leash, and a manual air pump. For the ease of users, Serene Life has packed all these accessories inside a convenient storage bag. So, you’ll have no problem carrying them. However, the unavailability of padding in the strap might be a drawback for some users.

The build of this paddleboard is PVC-based, which means it will be stable while standing. And even if you fall while standing or learning paddleboarding, you will not hit a hardboard on your way down because its build is gentle. However, the build quality is not the same as expensive iSUPs because it uses two-layers laminate technology. Still, it is better than most iSUPs which use a single-layer laminate technology.

Speaking of the build, this iSUP has a thinner and plastic construction, but this is acceptable at a $400 price point. The foam pad of this iSUP features a diamond design that covers enough area of the board and gives it an attractive look. Plus, the portable design of this paddleboard makes it easier to do yoga or any other exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature. So, that’s another plus point.

Adults and kids can easily glide across the surface with this paddleboard because it is an inflatable paddleboard and it improves the balance and stability of riders. Even if you have caused any minor damage to this iSUP, you can repair that damage easily with the help of the provided repair kit. Speaking of accessories, you can easily extend the paddle to suit anyone’s height. So, whether you’re a short or long heightened person, you won’t face any issue with its paddle.

4.     Mousa iSUP, 11′ x 34” x 6”(Tropical Zeal)

The fourth pick on our list for the best paddle boards under $500 is dual player paddleboards for adults. Its name is Mousa Tropical Zeal inflatable paddleboard. So, let’s see the in-depth Mousa paddle board review and check whether it’s worth spending money or not.

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 11-feet Width: 34-inches Thickness: 6-inches Weight:20lbs. Package Dimensions:  36.5 x 16.25 x 9 inches

In-Depth Review:

Despite being the widest and longest entry on this list, this iSUP only weighs 20 pounds, which is mind-boggling because we don’t know how the company has managed to manufacture this as a super-light SUP. So, if you’re worried about carrying this iSUP by looking at its dimensions, then don’t be because it feels super lightweight. Plus, the maximum weight capacity of this iSUP is around 330 pounds, but in our testing, we have observed that the actual capacity of this iSUP is more than 350 pounds.

When the design of this paddleboard is combined with the extra accessories, this iSUP offers great value at this price point. One of the additional accessories is the 5-liter waterproof smartphone pouch, which is an extra facility because companies don’t provide such facilities in a budget price range. Plus, the company has packed the waterbag in the included duffel bag, which is easier to hold because of its backpack straps and adds extra stability because of the waist strap. So, carrying that duffel bag won’t be an issue for most users because it’s smaller than your expectations.

This paddleboard not only looks fantastic but is easier to inflate as well. So, when you pump it up, this paddleboard feels pretty firm and, if you have used some hardboard before, it will feel the same to you (when inflated). Plus, its size is perfect for someone who likes to paddleboard with pets and you won’t face any issues while handling this paddleboard.

This iSUP is beneficial in different activities without any experience, like drifting, fishing, floating, and yoga, because of its EVA non-slippery deck pad. Plus, every handle of this iSUP gets an extra double-layer sponge.

So, whether you’re a female or male, this iSUP will take care of your body gently.

5.     Zray iSUP

The last pick for today’s discussion is an under $350 SUP and its name is the Zray inflatable stand-up paddleboard. Like other models, this iSUP also offers quite a lot in the package. Plus, it’s portable as well and that is why it is one of the best family choices on this list.

Let’s see some other details about this paddleboard.

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 12-feet, 6-inches Width: 30-inches Thickness: 6-inches Weight: –  35 lbs Package Dimensions: ‎150 x 30 x 6 -inches

In-Depth Review:

As mentioned earlier, people who’re looking for family paddleboards prefer this iSUP. So, the EVA deck pad of this paddleboard is suitable for multiple riders and doesn’t cause any fatigue after long paddle boarding sessions. It is not the longest paddleboard on this list, but its 10 feet length is ideal. Plus, the 6-inches thickness of this iSUP makes it a well-stitched paddleboard and you won’t face puncturing issues here.

One of the major highlights of this paddleboard is it is easier to inflate and deflate. And once you’ve deflated this iSUP, you can store it anywhere for easier transportation. Speaking of transportation, you can set up a kayak seat or leash with this paddleboard by using the four stainless steel D-rings. That is why this paddleboard is marked as one of the best portable boards at a $500 price point.

Apart from the mentioned fortes so far, this paddleboard also features an EVA kick pad at the back. So, the kick pad aids the users in taking critical turns perfectly. Plus, the paddleboard is rigid enough to not face any issue in water because of its military-grade PVC and drop-stitch build quality.

Honorable Mentions

There are a few entries that couldn’t make this list because their price points are a bit above the $500 range. Their names are Bluefin Cruiser iSUP and iRocker NAUTICAL 11’6″. We have mentioned their main specifications. So, if you want, you can check them out.

Bluefin Cruise Carbon Paddle Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 10-feet, 8-inches (There’s also a 12-inch and 15-inch model) Width: 32.28-inches Thickness: 6-inches Weight:28 lbs. Package Dimensions: ‎125.98 x 35.43 x 7.87-inches

iRocker NAUTICAL 11’6″:

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 11-feet, 6-inches Width: 31-inches Thickness: 6-inches Weight:22lbs. Package Dimensions: ‎10.3 x 18.9 x 35.6-inches

Plus, if you’re looking for a travel bag for your premium surfboard or paddleboard because you don’t want something to happen to your premium product, then try Abahub Premium SUP.

Abahub Premium SUP

 

PRODUCT SPECS

Length: 9-feet, 8-inches Width: 33-inches Thickness: 6-inches Weight: 11.2 Ounces (0.7 Pounds) Package Dimensions: ‎39 x 15 x 8-inches

Factors to Consider While Buying the Best Paddle Boards Under 500 – the Buying Guide

Whether we talk about purchasing paddleboards or any other thing, it is always difficult to choose the best in a budget range. But we have made a list of the factors that you can use as a template to choose the right paddleboard.

So, let’s see those factors.

1.     Shapes

Paddleboards come in different shapes and sizes. However, the two most popular shapes are Touring/Displacement/V-Shaped boards and Planing boards.

• Touring/Displacement/V-Shaped board – helps in maintaining a line and getting a good consistent speed. These nose-shaped boards are pretty effective because they allow the user to pierce through the water while going through the current or chop.
• All-around/planning board – works great as well because they come with the traditional rounded shape to the nose.

So, choosing between these two shapes depends on how you want your board to perform for you while you’re in the water.

2.     Standard Features

Every paddleboard comes with some standard features. So, your paddleboard should have the following standard fortes.

• Handle – which helps you pack the board to and from the water. This is typically in the center, which brings a satisfying balancing point because you’re neither dragging the nose nor the tail.
• Fins – allows you to move forward in a straight line. So, your paddleboard should have fins (either single or multiple).
• TractionPad – is a subtle cushy area that lets you have grip and remain in contact with your paddleboard all the time.

3.     Length

Mostly, paddleboards’ lengths vary from 10.5-14 feet and they also have variations in increments from 3 to 4 to 6 to various other inches of increments. So, we discuss some scenarios that will help you while choosing between different lengths of paddleboards.

• If you want a paddleboard that is easier to turn, then a shorter board should be your choice. For example, for paddle surfing, people use shorter planning boards.
• If you want to go straight and be efficient in the water, then a longer board is perfect for you. For example, if you’re on a bay, a lake where there’s no surf required, a touring board is best for you.

4.     Width

Width plays a vital role in the stability of the board and mostly, paddleboards come in 26 to 32-inches of width. So, you should pick the width of the board according to your experience level. For example, the touring board should be 30-inches and the planning board should be 31-32-inches wide for beginners.

5.     Volume

Aside from shape, length, and width, volume is another important factor that you should consider while buying a paddleboard. For example, experts don’t recommend a board that doesn’t have enough volume to float its user. Because the wrong combination of paddlers with the volume will result in an uneasy ride in the water (practically swimming 😁).

So, it’s best to choose a board with enough volume.

Final Thoughts

To conclude the entire discussion, if you’re looking for the best paddleboards for the family under $500, then Zray iSUP is a good choice. However, SereneLife and ROC iSUP are the best multipurpose $500 paddleboards currently available on the market.

You will find a lot of inflatable paddleboards on the list discussed above because nowadays, people prefer these boards over hardboards. So, even if you’re looking for the best inflatable paddle boards under 500 or top inflatable paddle boards under $500, then this list will still prove useful for you. However, if you want a completely separate list, then you can check out the best inflatable paddle boards 2022 under $500.

Read More: Best Fishing Paddle Boards

1. Are cheap paddle boards worth it?

Some cheap paddleboards are worth spending money on, but you should not compare the performance of cheap paddle boards to their premium counterparts because they will definitely fall behind.

2.  What are the best paddle boards for beginners?

If you’re new to paddleboarding or you haven’t tried paddle boarding for a while, then there are tons of available options for you. Some of the options are:

• iRocker All-Around – Best all around.
• iRocker Nautical – One of the best budget picks.
• Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ – Another budget entry.
• TOWER Adventurer 2 – One of the best beginner-friendly entries from Tower.

3.  What are the top-rated paddleboards?

If you want a complete list of the top-rated paddleboards, then you can visit us some other time. But the following entries are an overview of the top-rated paddleboards.

1. Bote HD Aero Inflatable Stand-up Paddleboard – Best iSUP for fishing.
2. FB sport Premium iSUP – One of the best iSUPs.
3. ROC iSUP – One of the best-rated iSUPs.
4. SereneLife iSUP – One of the best paddleboards.

4. What is the best affordable paddleboard?

The choices might vary. But according to the testing and research we’ve conducted so far, the following are the best affordable paddleboards.

1. Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ iSUP.
2. iRocker Nautical 11’6″ iSUP.
3. SereneLife Free-Flow 10’6″ iSUP.
4. ROC iSUP.
5. Retrospec Weekender Tour 11′ iSUP.
6. Aqua Spirit 10’6 iSUP.
7. GILI Air 10′6 iSUP.

5.  What is the ideal thickness for a paddleboard?

Most stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) available in the market are 5-6 inches thicker, which is ideal because they will sit lower on water and provide more stability. However, if you want more details, you can check the buying guide.