8 Amazing Flatwater SUP
8 Amazing Flatwater SUP

Stand-up paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing outdoor sports. It’s an accessible, exciting, and affordable way to explore lakes and rivers; you don’t need much equipment or experience to get started.

However, choosing the right SUP for flatwater paddling can be tricky. There are so many boards on the market that it’s hard to know which is best for you.

This blog post will cover eight amazing flatwater stand-up paddleboards that will provide you with a great SUP experience on any lake or river.

From beginner boards to more advanced models, we’ll cover all the bases so you can find the perfect board for your needs. Let’s dive in!

What is flat water SUP?

Table of Contents

A SUP, or Stand Up Paddle Board, is an increasingly popular watersport in which participants use a paddle to propel themselves across a body of water while standing on a board.

SUPing can be done in both flat and wavy water conditions, making it a versatile activity for novice and experienced paddlers alike.

Read Next – Amazon Best Sellers: Best Stand-Up Paddleboards

Different types of SUPs

There are a few different types of SUPs, each with its purpose and benefits.

  • All-Around SUPs: These are the most versatile SUPs on the market and are great for flatwater and light ocean conditions. They are stable and easy to paddle, making them perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed experience. Here is a quick rundown of the most popular types:
  • Touring/Race SUPs: These SUPs are designed for speed and efficiency and are often used in long-distance paddling or racing. They are narrower and longer than all-around SUPs, making them more challenging to balance but much faster in the water.
  • Surf SUPs: As the name suggests, these SUPs are explicitly designed for surfing. They are shorter and broader than all-around or touring SUPs, making them more stable in waves. Surf SUPs often have extra features like fins and leash plugs to make them even more surf-friendly.
  • Fishing SUPs: These specialized SUPs provide everything you need for a successful day fishing on the water. They often have rod holders, bait wells, fish finders, and other helpful accessories built right in. Some fishing SUPs even have live wells to keep your catch fresh until you return to shore!

Acooday Inflatable Paddle Board - Stand Up Paddleboards for Adults,11'x33”x6 Extra Wide SUP Boards with GoPro Camera Mount, 11ft Blow Up Paddleboard with Pump, Paddle, Backpack , Fin, Leash

 out of stock
Amazon.com

FBSPORT 10'6'' Premium Stand Up Paddle Board, Yoga Board with Durable SUP Accessories & Carry Bag | Wide Stance, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck, Leash, Paddle and Pump for Youth & Adult

$199.99
$189.99
 in stock
6 new from $189.99
5 used from $137.73
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

Read Next – Best Cheap Stand Up Paddle Boards (2023)

The best flatwater SUPs

If you’re looking for the best flatwater SUPs, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll look at the top 10 flatwater SUPs available and what makes each one stand out from the rest.

The best flatwater SUPs:

The BIC Ace-Tec Wing is an excellent option if you’re looking for a great all-around flatwater SUP.

It’s ultra-stable and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It’s also lightweight and durable so that you can take it on all your adventures without fear of damage.

The best inflatable flatwater SUP:

For those who want the portability and convenience of an inflatable SUP, the iRocker All-Around is an excellent option.

It’s made with high-quality materials and construction, so it’s built to last. It’s also highly stable and easy to paddle, making it ideal for flatwater exploration.

The best budget flatwater SUP:

If you’re on a budget but still want a quality flatwater SUP, the Aqua Marina Beast is a great option.

It’s made with durable materials and construction, so it can handle whatever you throw. Plus, it’s super stable and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget.

The best fishing flatwater SUP:

If you’re looking for a flatwater SUP specifically designed for fishing, the Boardworks Kraken is a great option.

It has plenty of features to make fishing more accessible, such as two removable rod holders, an adjustable seat, and four built-in cargo bins. Plus, it’s incredibly stable and easy to paddle.

The best touring flatwater SUP:

If you’re planning on taking your flatwater SUP on long-distance adventures, the BIC Sport TOUGH-TEC Touring is a great choice.

Its lightweight and durable construction make it perfect for extended trips, while its large size provides plenty of room for gear and supplies. Plus, it’s incredibly stable and easy to maneuver in any condition.

The best all-around inflatable flatwater SUP:

The Red Paddle Co Explorer is the perfect all-around inflatable SUP for those who want something lightweight and portable but still up to the challenge of any conditions.

It’s made with high-quality construction materials that are durable and rigid, so you can trust that it will stay afloat no matter what you throw at it.

Read Next – Lightweight Paddle Board For The Perfect Day Out In The Ocean

How to choose the right SUP

When choosing the right SUP for flatwater paddling, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about what type of paddling you’ll often do. An all-around SUP might be a good option if you’re primarily interested in cruising around calm lakes and rivers.

But if you’re planning on doing more challenging paddling, like racing or surfing small waves, you might choose a specific SUP designed for those activities.

Next, consider the size of the SUP. Generally speaking, longer and wider boards are better for beginners because they offer more stability.

But if you’re taller or heavier, you might feel more comfortable on a giant board. And if you want to paddle faster or do tricks, a smaller board might be better suited for your needs.

Finally, don’t forget to factor in cost when choosing a SUP. More expensive boards typically offer better quality and performance, but there are plenty of great options available at lower price points too.

So do your research and pick the best board that fits your budget and needs.

Tips for beginners

  • Get to know your paddle- The first thing you need to do when standing up paddle boarding is get to know your paddle. It may seem simple, but paddling is the most critical part of stand-up paddle boarding. You cannot move through the water without a good paddling technique.
  • Don’t be afraid to fall- One of the best things about stand-up paddle boarding is that it is straightforward to get back on your board if you fall off. So don’t be afraid to fall because you will look at some point. Just remember to get back on your board as quickly as possible so you can keep paddling.
  • Be aware of your surroundings- Another important tip for beginners is to be mindful of their surroundings at all times. This means being aware of other boats and obstacles in the water around you. By being aware of your surroundings, you can avoid potential hazards and have a more enjoyable experience paddle boarding.

Where to find the best SUPs

There are a few things to consider when looking for the best stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) for flatwater paddling.

The first is the type of board. There are three main types of SUPs: all-around, touring and racing.

All-around boards are the most versatile and can be used for various activities, including flatwater paddling. Touring boards are designed for longer journeys and have more storage capacity than all-around boards.

Racing boards are the longest and narrowest type of SUP and are designed for speed and agility.

The second thing to consider is the size of the board. The board’s width varies from 28 to 36 inches wide. SUPs come in sizes from 9 feet to 14 feet long.

Choose a size that’s comfortable for you and will fit in your space to store essentials.

The third thing to consider is the material the board is made from. Most SUPs are made from either fiberglass or plastic. Plastic boards are a good choice for beginners or on a budget. Fiberglass boards are lighter and more durable than plastic boards but are also more expensive.

Considering all these factors, you’re ready to start shopping for your new SUP! Here are a few of our favorite places to buy SUPs:

REI: REI carries a wide selection of SUPs from brands like Naish, Bic, and Red Paddle Co.

Amazon: Amazon carries a wide selection of SUPs from brands like Inflatable SUP USA and Goplus.

Local outdoor stores: Many outdoor stores carry SUPs from popular brands like Boardworks, Yolo, and Badfish.

Online specialty retailers: Many online retailers sell SUPs for all types of paddling, including flatwater paddling. Two of the most popular are Tower Paddle Boards and iRocker.

What is flatwater SUP?

When most people think of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), they envision riding waves in the ocean. However, SUP can also be done in calm, shallow waters such as lakes and rivers. This is what’s known as flatwater SUP.

Flatwater SUP is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. It’s also relatively easy to learn. All you need is a board, a paddle, and a life jacket (if you’re new to the sport).

There are many different types of flatwater SUP boards to choose from. The best board for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you plan on doing a lot of yoga or fishing from your board, you’ll want to get a wider board that’s stable enough to support your weight.

If you’re starting flatwater SUP, taking a class or two from a certified instructor is a good idea. This will help you learn the proper techniques and safety guidelines.

Acooday Inflatable Paddle Board - Stand Up Paddleboards for Adults,11'x33”x6 Extra Wide SUP Boards with GoPro Camera Mount, 11ft Blow Up Paddleboard with Pump, Paddle, Backpack , Fin, Leash

 out of stock
Amazon.com

FBSPORT 10'6'' Premium Stand Up Paddle Board, Yoga Board with Durable SUP Accessories & Carry Bag | Wide Stance, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck, Leash, Paddle and Pump for Youth & Adult

$199.99
$189.99
 in stock
6 new from $189.99
5 used from $137.73
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

Can you SUP foil on flat water?

Yes, you can SUP foil on flat water! There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, you’ll need a giant board than regular SUPing. Second, you’ll need a foil specifically designed for flat water use.

Third, you’ll need to be careful of your speed and watch for obstacles. But with the right equipment and caution, you can enjoy flat water foiling!

Should you wear water shoes on SUP?

If you’re paddling in calm water and don’t anticipate any obstacles, you can get away with wearing regular shoes.

However, if you’re swimming in rougher water or areas with a lot of debris, it’s best to wear water shoes. Water shoes protect your feet from getting cut on sharp objects and provide better traction than regular shoes.

Read Next – Inflatable vs Hard Paddle Board: Which Is Best To Buy?

Is SUP suitable for weight loss?

Yes, SUP is suitable for weight loss! Here are three reasons why:

  • SUP requires you to use your core muscles to maintain balance, which helps to tone your abs and improve your overall strength.
  • SUP is a great cardio workout that can help burn calories and promote weight loss.
  • The paddling also helps tone your arms and legs, further aiding in weight loss.

Is SUP more demanding than a kayak?

SUP is often harder than kayaking because it requires more balance and coordination.

While this may be true for some people, others find that SUP is easier than kayak because it allows them to move more freely and doesn’t require as much upper-body strength.

Ultimately, the difficulty of SUP depends on the individual paddler’s skill level and comfort with the sport.

Conclusion

When it comes to flatwater SUPs, having the correct board is essential for making the most of your water adventures.

We hope that this list of 8 amazing flatwater SUPs has helped you find the perfect board for your needs and that you can now get out on the water confidently.

With a great selection of boards, we are sure you will have no trouble finding one that suits your style and budget. Have fun out there!

Read Next – SUP for beginners and introducing the Stand Up Paddle Board

Acooday Inflatable Paddle Board - Stand Up Paddleboards for Adults,11'x33”x6 Extra Wide SUP Boards with GoPro Camera Mount, 11ft Blow Up Paddleboard with Pump, Paddle, Backpack , Fin, Leash

 out of stock
Amazon.com

FBSPORT 10'6'' Premium Stand Up Paddle Board, Yoga Board with Durable SUP Accessories & Carry Bag | Wide Stance, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck, Leash, Paddle and Pump for Youth & Adult

$199.99
$189.99
 in stock
6 new from $189.99
5 used from $137.73
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board 11'x33''x6'' Ultra-Light (20.4lbs) Inflatable Paddleboard with ISUP Accessories,Three Fins,Adjustable Paddle, Pump,Backpack, Leash, Waterproof Phone Bag

$229.95
$209.95
 in stock
3 new from $172.31
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

PORTAL SUP Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults, Stand Up Paddleboards, Non-Slip Deck Blow up Paddle Boards with Adjustable Paddle, Carry Bag, Emergency Repair Kit (10ft Beige, 10'6x33 x6)

 out of stock
Amazon.com

Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (6 Inches Thick) with Premium SUP Accessories Heavy Duty Comfort Backpack Kayak Attachment and More | Wide Stance Non-Slip Deck, | Youth & Adult Standing Boat

$224.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

FunWater Inflatable 10'6×33"×6" Ultra-Light (17.6lbs) SUP for All Skill Levels Everything Included with Stand Up Paddle Board, Adj Floating Paddles, Pump, ISUP Travel Backpack, Leash,Waterproof Bag

$239.95  in stock
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board 11'x33''x6''W Premium SUP Accessories, Backpack, Wide Stance, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck, Leash, Paddle and Pump, Standing Boat for Youth and Adult

$219.99  in stock
1 used from $199.45
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am

FunWater SUP Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Ultra-Light Inflatable Paddleboard with ISUP Accessories,Fins,Adjustable Paddle, Pump,Backpack, Leash, Waterproof Phone Bag

$229.99  in stock
2 new from $229.99
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of January 20, 2025 10:00 am
Chris Miller
Hello, I'm Chris Miller, a passionate enthusiast of SUP BOARD and the proud owner of supnoob.com. As an avid paddleboarder, I have spent years exploring the world of stand-up paddleboarding and honing my skills on the water. With a collection of prizes under my belt, I have become well-versed in the intricacies of this exhilarating sport. What sets me apart is my commitment to sharing my knowledge and experience with beginners and fellow SUP enthusiasts alike. Through supnoob.com, I strive to provide valuable insights, tips, and resources to help individuals delve into the world of stand-up paddleboarding with confidence.