You might not have heard of a Fanatic paddle board before, and if that’s the case then it’s a shame because they truly are excellent. Fanatic is a watersports company that initially specialized in windsurfing but then expanded into inflatable SUPs. And they have a large range that caters from beginners all the way to advanced racing boards.

Recently I’ve been on a mission to get more Fanatic sups into more peoples hands because they are seriously good, the market is growing (1) and it’s the perfect time to buy one! That’s why in this article I will be going through four different paddleboards that are extremely underrated and showing you why you should seriously consider them in 2024.

Looking for our best paddle board product recommendations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Buyer Guides

The 4 Most Underrated Fanatic Paddle Boards In 2024

Category	Fanatic Paddle Board
Best Entry Level SUP	Fly Air 10’4″
Perfect For Intermediate Riders	Ray Air Premium 12’6″
Great For Women	Diamond Air Touring 11’6″
Best For Children	Ripper Air Touring 10′

Let’s go review these so that you have all the right information.

#1: Fly Air 10’4″ (Best Entry Level Fanatic Paddle SUP)

Overall Thoughts:

This is truly a world-class entry level paddle board that comes at a great price for what you get. You are getting a durable sup, along with accessories that are seriously impressive (including a lightweight carbon fiber paddle). They aren’t messing around with this package. The only downside that I found with this is that it’s more of a flatwater board so consider where you will be riding. Otherwise, it’s amazing!

PROS	CONS
– Comes at a really competitive price compared to other entry level paddle boards. – Really high construction quality – Extremely lightweight (18lbs) and easy to carry even for kids and women. – Comes with a full stack of accessories that you’ll love. They are really high quality and I love the carbon fiber paddle.	– This is catered as more of flatwater sup, which in itself isn’t a problem but just consider that with your purchase.

Details:

The Fly Air 10’4″ Inflatable SUP Stand Up Paddle Boarding Package by Fanatic is an extremely underrated entry-level SUP set, designed for versatility and ease of use across various water conditions, from flatwater to small waves. This blue, 10’4″ size package includes the board, a bag, pump, and paddle, emphasizing convenience for those with limited storage or who travel frequently. The board’s all-round shape and generous volume make it stable and easy to handle for both beginners and advanced riders, ensuring a smooth ride.

It features high-quality printing for an appealing look, an integrated deck net for securing luggage, a diamond grooving footpad for superior grip and comfort, comfortable carrying handles, high-quality towing eyelets, and a removable tool-free fin.

The included Pure paddle, with a 15% Carbon-Composite shaft and solid 8” ABS blade, is lightweight yet durable, perfect for beginners. Constructed using DS Light technology, this single-layer Drop-Stitch construction offers a lightweight, high-quality build at an affordable price, maintaining the high standards Fanatic is known for.

Construction:

The Drop-Stitch Light technology used in Fanatic’s inflatable boards is a cost-effective method that doesn’t compromise on quality or weight. It’s built with top-notch materials and adheres to high production standards. This technology involves a single-layer construction that includes a V-Drop Stitch core for structure, encased in a strong Tarpaulin layer for durability.

The board features two layers of PVC along the rails for added strength and a diamond grooving footpad for better grip. Despite its lightweight design, this construction method ensures the board is robust and reliable, all while being produced by one of the leading manufacturers in the industry.

Here is a video to walk you through this Fanatic inflatable sup:

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Fanatic inflatable paddle board
• 3-piece carbon fiber ‘PURE’ paddle (5% Carbon-Composite shaft and solid 8” ABS blade)
• Fanatic Power Pump HP8
• 1x Fly Air 19.5 cm
• Coiled ankle leash
• Carry backpack

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#2: Ray Air Premium 12’6″ (Perfect For Intermediate Riders)

Overall Thoughts:

I loved this SUP. The Ray Air premium is more of an advanced paddle board that is a bit more wobbly than the Air mentioned above because of it’s narrower width. This board is great for intermediate paddlers and will allow you to dip your toes into racing and going fast on your sup. It has a narrow pointed nose that cuts through the water and it has limited flex when inflated to 12 psi so it truly is a fun ride and I highly recommend it.

PROS

CONS

– Extremely high quality material and accessories. They don’t cut corners in any way with the construction quality. – It has a high rigidity level that makes for a really smooth ride in even choppy waters. – Large EVA deckpad so that you can move around on the board. – Love the carbon fiber paddle – it is lightweight, grippy when wet and floats when you drop it. – Really nice acceleration on the water – this could compete with any entry level racing sup.

– More wobbly compared to the Air, so there might be a higher learning curve for brand new paddlers. – A bit more expensive.

Details:

The Ray Air Premium 12’6″ Inflatable SUP package by Fanatic is a high-quality, touring stand-up paddle set ideal for intermediate riders seeking to enhance their speed or explore racing paddle boards. This blue, 12’6″ long and 32″ wide board is designed for exceptional glide and stability, perfect for covering long distances along coastlines, lakes, channels, or rivers. Its design combines generous volume and a maximized waterline to ensure stability and straight-line performance, while its optimized thickness provides great rigidity for effortless paddling.

Manufactured using the advanced DL Light technology, the board offers superior rigidity compared to single layer boards, further improving performance. Additionally, the package features the practical Click Fin system for easy setup, a mast foot insert for windsurfing options, and includes a 3-piece adjustable Paddle Pure with a 15% Carbon/Composite shaft and solid 8” ABS blade, ensuring lightweight handling and durability against ground contacts.

Completing the package are a premium wheelie-backpack and an ultra-fast air pump for convenience. The Ray Air Premium set is the ultimate choice for those looking to experience the thrill of touring and racing with a board that delivers performance, stability, and speed.

Construction:

The Double Layer Light technology is Fanatic’s top-tier construction method for their inflatable products. It includes a second PVC layer welded to the core and V-Drop Stitch material, enhancing durability and providing a premium finish with stylish deck prints. A third layer adds color and extra strength around the rails.

This advanced construction offers a significant improvement over the standard Double Layer technology, reducing weight by 20-25% and increasing stiffness by 25-30%. It’s considered the best inflatable technology available, offering both performance and aesthetic benefits.

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Fanatic inflatable paddle board
• 3-piece carbon fiber ‘PURE’ paddle (15% Carbon-Composite shaft and solid 8” ABS blade)
• Fanatic Power Pump HP8
• 1x Race Air 20 cm Click Fin
• Coiled ankle leash
• Premium wheelie backpack

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#3: Diamond Air Touring 11’6″ (Great Fanatic Paddle Board For Women)

Overall Thoughts

There are many great women’s paddle boards on the market, and this truly deserves its place as one of them. My wife absolutely loved this board. From the pretty pink decals on the sup, all the way to the performance on the water… It was great. It is a similar quality to the Ray Air premium except they have lowered the weight and size to make it more accessible to smaller ladies. This is a great paddle board for any woman looking to get some speed on the water on a great touring board.

PROS	CONS
– Extremely lightweight (19.5 lbs) for a touring board making it easy to carry. – Has a high rigidity and volume which makes it comfortable and easy for paddling. – The wheelie backpack is high quality and fits the board well. – Love the PURE paddle again, and also the details they’ve added to make it match the board. – High performance on the water, similar to the Ray Air Premium.	– Higher price tag compared to other entry level sups.

Details:

The Diamond Air Touring 11’6″ Inflatable SUP package by Fanatic is designed specifically for women who love touring and trekking on water. This stylish pink set includes the board, a bag, pump, and paddle, offering a light, stiff, and visually appealing setup. Ideal for all levels of female paddlers, the board delivers excellent straight-line performance, making it perfect for exploring calm waters.

Its design is inspired by Fanatic’s sleek 11’6″ Ray Air, ensuring an exceptional glide and the ability to cover distances easily. The board’s generous volume and rigidity provide a stable and comfortable platform, while a deck net keeps belongings secure during your journey. The package is made affordable without sacrificing quality, thanks to Fanatic’s Drop Stitch Light technology, ensuring the board is both durable and lightweight.

The included Diamond Carbon 35 paddle, adjustable to suit your size and style, features a durable carbon composite blade and a shaft that matches the board’s graphics, making this package not only effective but also the most stylish choice for women looking to enjoy the water.

Construction:

Fanatic’s single layer Drop-Stitch Light technology offers a budget-friendly solution for lightweight and high-quality inflatable products. Made by one of the top manufacturers in the world, this technology uses premium materials and adheres to high production standards, ensuring durability and performance without a hefty price tag.

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Fanatic paddle board
• 3-piece carbon fiber ‘PURE’ paddle (15% Carbon-Composite shaft and solid 8” ABS blad
• Fanatic Power Pump HP8
• 1x Fly 19.5 Diamond Color
• Coiled ankle leash
• Premium wheelie backpack

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#4: Ripper Air Touring 10′ (Best Fanatic Paddle Board For Children)

Overall Thoughts:

This is a really nice kids paddle board that will bring a smile to any young ‘rippers’ face. It is lightweight and easy to use, but they thing that Fanatic did that was so smart was raise the volume on the board so that most kids won’t grow out of it too quickly. This board has a maximum weight of 65 kg, so that means that it can last kids until their early to mid-teens if they look after it. Not to mention it’s has a high-growth potential and even more advanced paddlers will love it.

PROS

CONS

– Has a high volume and weight capacity which means that this will last most kids until their mid-teens before they grow out of it. – High performance on the water – it has nice acceleration and a top speed that will be lots of fun. – Allows for diverse activities – you can take this into waves, explore the coastline and even fish with it if you want. – High quality materials that are lightweight and work really well.

– Higher price tag compared to other children’s SUPs.

Details:

The Ripper Air Touring 10′ Inflatable SUP package by Fanatic is a high-quality, lightweight stand-up paddle kit designed specifically for kids. This orange, 10-foot board is the ideal choice for young paddlers eager to beat their parents and friends on the water. Tailored to suit the lighter weight and specific needs of children, the board offers excellent gliding capabilities and stability, making it perfect for longer journeys. Its design ensures efficient paddling and good tracking, regardless of distance.

The package includes a child-friendly Ripper Pure Adjustable 3-Piece paddle, adjustable between 130 and 160 cm, ensuring it can grow with your child. The paddle features a 15% Carbon/Composite shaft and a solid 6.5” ABS blade, making it both durable and easy to handle. Also included are the Ripper Air Touring fin, a leash for safety, a convenient backpack, and an air pump, rounding off everything needed for a complete family SUP touring adventure.

Built using Fanatic’s single layer Drop-Stitch Light technology, the board is not only light and easy to transport but also maintains high quality without being overly expensive, crafted with top-notch materials and manufacturing standards. This kit is perfect for children looking to have fun and stay ahead on the water.

Construction:

Fanatic’s single layer Drop-Stitch Light technology delivers a cost-effective, lightweight, and high-quality inflatable product. Crafted with premium materials and adhering to high production standards at one of the world’s leading manufacturers, this technology ensures durability and performance without a high price tag.

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Fanatic paddle board
• 3-piece child friendly carbon fiber paddle (15% Carbon-Composite shaft and solid 6.5” ABS blade)
• Fanatic Power Pump HP8
• 1x Fly 19.5 cm Fin
• Coiled ankle leash
• Backpack

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Which Fanatic Paddle Board Should You Choose?

I’ve tried to make it easy for you with these reviews, but choosing the right paddleboard from Fanatic’s lineup involves considering your specific needs, skill level, and intended use. Here’s a brief guide to help you choose among the four discussed boards:

1. Fanatic Fly Air 10’4″ (Allrounder)

• Ideal for: Beginners to intermediate paddlers looking for a versatile, all-around board.
• Features: Stability, ease of use, and suitability for various conditions from flatwater to small waves.
• Why Choose: If you want a board that does a bit of everything (yoga, touring, paddling etc. (2)) and is easy to store and transport.

2. Fanatic Ray Air Premium 12’6″ (Touring)

• Ideal for: Intermediate paddlers interested in speed, distance, and touring.
• Features: Enhanced glide and efficiency, more rigidity for long distances, and additional features like the Click Fin system.
• Why Choose: If you’re aiming for longer paddling adventures with a focus on performance.

3. Fanatic Diamond Air Touring 11’6″ (Women’s Touring)

• Ideal for: Female paddlers of all levels looking for a touring board with great straight-line performance.
• Features: Women-specific design, easy to paddle and transport, stylish, and tailored for long glides.
• Why Choose: If you’re a woman seeking a high-quality, efficient board for exploring and trekking.

4. Fanatic Ripper Air Touring 10′ (Kids)

• Ideal for: Young paddlers or kids who want a board tailored to their size and needs.
• Features: Lightweight, stable, and easy to manage with child-friendly accessories.
• Why Choose: If you’re looking for a durable, safe, and fun option for children to join in on the paddleboarding adventures.

The Factors You Should Consider:

Take a look at these factors when making your choice:

Skill Level:	Beginner boards are more stable and forgiving, while advanced boards offer better performance and speed.
Purpose:	Touring boards are for distance and speed, allrounders for general use, and specific designs (women’s, kids’) cater to particular needs.
Physical Considerations:	Weight, height, and strength should match the board’s design and capabilities for optimal performance.
Storage & Transportation:	Inflatable boards are easier to store and transport, making them ideal for those with limited space.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on matching the board’s characteristics with the paddler’s needs, so go through this and make your pick 🙂

Here are our favorite paddle board accessories in 2024: The 23 Best Paddleboard Accessories That You Need In 2024

Conclusion:

These boards are not only constructed with top-notch materials and technology but also cater to specific user needs without overlooking style and performance. With their underrated status, choosing a Fanatic paddleboard means you’re getting a product that exceeds expectations in durability, functionality, and on-water enjoyment. Consider your skill level, intended use, and personal preferences when making your selection, and you’ll surely find a Fanatic paddleboard that not only meets but exceeds your paddleboarding aspirations.

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

Fanatic Paddle Board FAQ:

Are fanatic paddle boards good?

Yes, Fanatic paddle boards are known for their excellent quality, durability, and performance, catering to all skill levels.

What is the pressure for the Fanatic paddle board?

The recommended pressure is around 12 psi, but always check your specific board’s manual for precise instructions. You can normally inflate it to a maximum of 18 psi.

Why are some paddle boards so expensive?

The cost is influenced by the materials, construction techniques, brand, and design features, with higher-quality boards offering better performance and durability.

How much should I spend on a paddle board?

For beginners, $400 to $800 may suffice. For more frequent or advanced paddling, investing $800 to $2000 can offer better quality and features.

Is it better to have a long or short paddle board?

Long boards (over 12 feet) are great for touring and speed, while short boards (under 10 feet) offer maneuverability for surfing and casual paddling. Medium-length boards balance stability, speed, and maneuverability for general use.

References:

1 – SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd, Stand-up Paddle Board Market Set to Soar Past USD 2.39 Billion by 2030, taken from: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stand-paddle-board-market-set-151500087.html
2 – ACCESSWIRE, SUP Your Yoga, a Website that is Ideal for People Who Want to Give a SUP Yoga Board a Try, is Launched, taken from: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/sup-yoga-website-ideal-people-124500634.html