I wish that I got a paddleboard when I was a child. I always believe that teaching any child about a sport is such a good idea because it is the perfect outlet to let them have fun while also learning valuable life skills. That’s why I think that a kids paddle board is one of the best gifts you can give!

Paddleboarding not only provides a fantastic outdoor activity but also promotes physical fitness, balance, and coordination. In this article, I will guide you through the best kids paddleboards in 2024, considering various factors to ensure an enjoyable and safe paddleboarding experience for your little ones.

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Factors to consider when choosing a kids paddle board

When selecting a paddleboard for your child, there are several essential factors to keep in mind. These factors will help you find the ideal paddleboard that suits your child’s age, size, and skill level.

Size and weight capacity	One of the primary considerations is the size and weight capacity of the paddleboard. It’s crucial to choose a board that is appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Opting for a board with a weight capacity slightly higher than your child’s weight allows room for growth and ensures stability.
Stability and balance	For kids, stability and balance are key. Look for paddleboards with wider and more rounded shapes, as they offer better stability on the water. A board with a wider deck provides more surface area for kids to maintain balance and build confidence.
Durability and material	Children can be quite energetic and enthusiastic, so selecting a paddleboard made from durable materials is essential. Look for boards constructed with high-quality, impact-resistant materials that can withstand rough handling, accidental bumps, and potential scratches.
Paddle length and adjustability	Ensure the paddleboard comes with an adjustable paddle length suitable for your child’s height. A paddle that can be adjusted as your child grows ensures proper paddling technique and comfort.

With that out the way, let’s jump in the best kids paddle board that’s on the market in 2024. Who’s the winner?

The Best Kids Paddle board Of 2024

Here is the summary for the skimmers out there 😉

CATEGORY	PADDLEBOARD
Best Overall Paddleboard For Kids & Teens	ISLE Grom 8’6″
Best Hybrid Paddleboard Kayak For Kids	Bluefin G Cruise Junior
Best Paddleboard For Teens	THURSO Surf Adept Youth
Best Paddleboard For Younger Kids	THURSO Surf Prodigy Junior
Best Budget Kids Paddle Board	Retrospec Weekender-Nano

Based on extensive research, talking to other paddleboarders and personal experience, I have compiled a list of the top 5 kids paddleboards available in 2024. Each paddleboard offers unique features and benefits that make them excellent choices for young paddlers.

Paddleboard 1: ISLE Grom 8’6″ (BEST OVERALL KIDS & TEENS PADDLEBOARD)

I’ll be completely honest with you, if you’re looking to buy any paddleboard then you will never be disappointed with any ISLE board. They are truly world class – have high quality and durable paddleboards along with amazing customer service. I believe that ISLE is the best paddleboard brand in the world, so if you’re looking for a quality kids paddle board then grab this one.

For a detailed explainer of some of the best features of this ISLE paddleboard, watch this short explainer video:

PROS	CONS
– High quality material that is durable and can resist bumps and scratches. – The 8’6″ size means that teens can also use it and your child won’t grow out of it quickly. – Extremely stable so it’s easy to get going fast. – Great price for what you get	– Difficult for some small children to inflate on their own because of its size – so get an electric pump or you’re going to have to inflate it.

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Paddleboard 2: Bluefin G Cruise Junior (BEST HYBRID KAYAK PADDLEBOARD)

The Bluefin paddleboards are top sellers on Amazon for a reason, and that’s because they are really high quality paddleboards! The Bluefin G Cruise is a great kids paddle board because it is a hybrid SUP and kayak. This means that it comes with a chair that you can attach to your board. This is really awesome because kids often get tired of standing and this also gives them the option to sit and use the board as a kayak. On top of that – it is high quality, durable and a great brand so you can’t go wrong with this SUP.

PROS	CONS
– The chair is really awesome if your kids ever want to sit on the board instead of standing – Great price – High quality and durable materials – Comes with everything you need to get started.	– I’m not a huge fan of the paddle that comes with the SUP. Here are some other options if you’re open to getting a better paddle.

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Paddleboard 3: THURSO Surf Adept Youth (BEST PADDLEBOARD FOR TEENS)

If you’re looking for a paddleboard for a teen then this is a really good option for you. It is 9 foot in length so a longer board that will allow teens to use it also. If you’re looking to invest in a kids paddle board then this is also an option but it will be a little more difficult to maneuver on the water for them (they’ll need to grow into it a little bit). But all around THURSO is a really good brand that would make anyone extremely happy.

PROS	CONS
– Longer board so will suit kids and young teens. – High quality material that is durable and resistant to bumps and scratches. – Wide frame makes it easy to balance on, and more pointed nose will make it easier to navigate choppy water like the sea.	– Recommended weight capacity is 120 lb so it won’t be a fit for some older teens.

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Paddleboard 4: THURSO Surf Prodigy Junior (BEST PADDLEBOARD FOR KIDS)

Like I mentioned above, THURSO really makes a good kids paddle board! The big difference between this board and the above is the size difference. This one is smaller at 7’6 and will make it better suited for younger kids as opposed to teens. And when it comes to a kids paddle board, this is a really good bet if you want to get your children out on the water fast.

PROS	CONS
– Small size makes it manageable for kids to carry and maneuver on the water. – Great price – High quality and durable materials that will resist damage. – Comes in 3 different colors so you won’t have any meltdowns if you get the wrong color 😉	– No pump included – so get an electric pump or you’re going to have to inflate it constantly

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Paddleboard 5: Retrospec Weekender Nano 8′

A big problem for many people that comes with paddleboards is that the are relatively expensive. But they don’t have to be. This is a great example of a kids paddleboard that has a great price attached to it. It’s a 8 foot board that is wide for stability and has a rounded nose that is more suited for still water like in lakes and it will be a good bet if you want to give your children an introduction to this watersport without breaking the bank.

PROS	CONS
– Easy to deflate – Great budget option – Comes with everything you need – Includes as waterproof phone case which is convenient for you.	– Cheaper materials that will have a shorter shelf-life than some of the other recommendations.

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Tips for paddleboarding with kids

Once you’ve selected the perfect paddleboard for your child, it’s important to ensure their safety and help them make the most of their paddleboarding experience. Here are some valuable tips for paddleboarding with kids:

Safety precautions	Before hitting the water, make sure your child wears a well-fitting life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD). Additionally, teach them about basic water safety rules and how to handle unexpected situations.
Teaching kids paddleboarding techniques	Start by teaching your child proper paddling techniques, including how to hold the paddle correctly and paddle efficiently. Show them how to maintain balance on the board and how to change direction smoothly.
Fun activities to engage kids on paddleboards	Make paddleboarding an enjoyable experience for your child by incorporating fun activities. Encourage them to try paddleboard yoga, play paddleboard games, or explore nature while paddling. These activities will keep them engaged and excited about paddleboarding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best kids paddle board in 2024 requires careful consideration of factors such as size, stability, durability, and paddle adjustability. The top 5 paddleboards discussed in this article offer exceptional features and benefits for young paddlers. By following the safety tips and engaging your child in fun activities, you can create memorable paddleboarding experiences for the whole family.

And if you’re looking for a fun activity to do with kids on vacation, then it’s a great activity to do with them. You can easily find some great travel deals to some of the worlds best paddleboard destinations that you see below:

Looking for insider guides to some amazing paddle boarding locations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Location Guides

Kids Paddleboard FAQs:

At what age can kids start paddleboarding?

Children as young as four or five years old can start paddleboarding with proper adult supervision. However, it’s important to choose a paddleboard suitable for their size, weight, and skill level.

Can kids paddleboard alone?

It is generally recommended that children paddleboard under adult supervision, especially if they are beginners or have limited swimming abilities. As children gain more experience and confidence, they can gradually paddleboard with more independence.

How long does it take for kids to learn paddleboarding?

The learning curve for kids in paddleboarding varies depending on their age, athleticism, and previous water experience. With proper guidance and practice, most children can acquire basic paddleboarding skills within a few hours or a few sessions.

Can inflatable paddleboards be used for kids?

Yes, inflatable paddleboards can be an excellent option for kids. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to transport. However, ensure that the inflatable paddleboard you choose is appropriate for your child’s weight and skill level.

What are the benefits of paddleboarding for kids?

Paddleboarding offers numerous benefits for kids, including physical fitness, improved balance and coordination, increased confidence, and a deeper connection with nature and the outdoors. It also provides an opportunity for family bonding and fun-filled adventures on the water. Here are some other adventurous outdoor activities that your kids might love.