The Aqua Plus paddle board brand is well known in the budget inflatable SUP space. These boards have collected an impressive number of reviews on Amazon, which is a sentiment to how many boards they sell.

But the question is – are these inflatable SUPs any good? Here’s the short answer:

Want more details? Let’s get into the reviews of these paddle boards.

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Who Makes Aqua Plus Paddle Boards?

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Aqua Plus is a company known for its high-quality, budget inflatable stand-up paddleboards, with a focus on convenience and making them easy to transport. Despite its limited online presence, Aqua Plus has experienced viral success through sales primarily on Amazon.

Their boards, designed for a wide range of activities such as cruising, yoga, and fishing on calm waters (1), are praised for their durability, stability, and versatility. Accompanied by solid accessories, these boards cater to paddlers of all skill levels, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

The Different SUPS Available

When you go onto the Amazon page, you’ll notice that there are 9 different options available. These boards are generally very similar with the only difference being cosmetic (the color of the EV deck pad) and the size.

Aqua Plus Paddle Board Sizes Available:

You can get the following sizes:

• The smallest size is the 10′
• The medium size is the 10’6″
• The largest size is 11′

How We Tested The Aqua Plus Paddle Boards

So let’s get into the review.

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The Aqua Plus 10’6″ Stand Up Paddle Board

PROS	CONS
– Really easy to inflate, it takes about 10 minutes depending on your fitness level. – It is very rigid (when blown up to 15 PSI) which makes it stable on the water. – The smaller size makes it more nimble and maneuverable on the water. – It is pretty stable with it’s 33 inch width, making it easy to get started on.	– The accessories are average, they serve their purpose but aren’t anything to write home about. – I would have liked to see another bungee storage system at the back of the board.

Details:

The Aqua Plus 10’6″ inflatable SUP is a versatile board that’s suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced paddlers. It’s made from durable Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and designed for SUP paddling. Lightweight at 20 pounds, it can support up to 330 pounds, making it stable and suitable for various activities like cruising, fitness, fishing, and exploration.

Its ultra-portable design deflates to a compact size, making it easy to transport and store. The board feels similar to a hard board due to its rigid construction and military-grade PVC material. It features a comfortable diamond groove traction for grip, storage bungee, stainless steel D-rings, and comes with a complete package including an adjustable aluminum paddle, backpack, shoulder strap, coil leash, waterproof bag, removable fin, and a double-action pump.

This board stands out as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance.

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Inflatable paddle board
• Adjustable 3 piece paddle (extends to 65 – 82inches long)
• Detachable fin (single fin set up)
• Double action pump
• Safety leash
• Shoulder strap
• Travel backpack
• Waterproof cell-phone pouch
• 1 year warranty on materials

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

Test Results:

Our testing of the Aqua Plus 10’6″ inflatable SUP confirms it as a solid board, excelling in various conditions. It impressively balances rigidity and stability, mimicking the feel of a hard board while offering the convenience of an inflatable. With its ability to support up to 330 pounds, it caters to a wide range of paddlers and activities, from cruising to fitness. Its portability and comprehensive package, including a decent pump and durable accessories, underline its value.

Overall, the Aqua Plus 10’6″ stands out as a reliable, budget-friendly option for both new and seasoned paddlers.

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The Aqua Plus 11′ Stand Up Paddle Board

PROS	CONS
– The larger board opens up more opportunities for things like fishing and yoga. – This board has a large weight limit (350 lbs), meaning that you can have more than 1 person on the board at one time. – Large deck pad gives you lots of room to move around on the board. – The board is quick to inflate and deflate. – It works well in most water conditions (it struggled a bit in the choppy sea)	– The paddle can bend slightly if you’re paddling aggressively because the board is larger. – Again, the accessories are okay.

Details:

The Aqua Plus 11′ inflatable SUP, is a budget-friendly board that doesn’t skimp on quality or features. Made from high-grade Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and designed for activities like touring and fitness, this board is sturdy, weighing 20 pounds, and can hold up to 350 pounds. Its ultra-portable design easily transitions from a compact 1-foot diameter when deflated to a spacious 11’x33″x6″ when inflated, offering more room for activities like yoga, touring, and fishing compared to the slightly smaller 10’6″ model. T

he board’s rigid design feels akin to a hard board, ensuring stability and ease of use for all skill levels in various conditions. With features like a diamond groove traction for grip and multiple D-Rings for storage, plus a complete package including an adjustable aluminum paddle, travel backpack, shoulder strap, coiled leash, waterproof bag, and a versatile double action pump.

This SUP stands out as an great choice for paddlers looking for a versatile and affordable option.

What’s Included:

The kit contains:

• Inflatable paddle board
• Adjustable 3 piece paddle (extends to 65 – 82inches long)
• Detachable fin (single fin set up)
• Double action pump
• Safety leash
• Shoulder strap
• Travel backpack
• Waterproof cell-phone pouch
• 1 year warranty on materials

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

Test Results:

In our tests, the Aqua Plus 11′ inflatable SUP proved to be a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate paddlers. It’s good across the board—literally. Thanks to its slightly larger size compared to the 10’6″ model, it offers enhanced stability and extra space, making it ideal for a variety of activities like yoga, touring, and fishing. Its construction from high-quality PVC ensures durability and rigidity akin to a hardboard, while still maintaining the portability and convenience of an inflatable. With its comprehensive package and excellent performance in different conditions, this board stands out as a versatile and valuable option for anyone looking to explore the waters.

Overall, the Aqua Plus 11′ is a well rounded budget paddle board that most people will be happy with. It functions well in any water conditions, and it is perfect for people that just want a no-frills option to get out in the water more.

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Which Aqua Plus SUP Should You Pick? The 11′ Or The 10’6″?

Choosing between the 10’6″ and the 11′ Aqua Plus paddle boards largely depends on your planned activities and preference for stability. The 11′ board is a better choice if you’re looking for increased stability on the water, which is particularly beneficial for beginners. Additionally, its larger size enhances its suitability for activities that require more space, such as yoga and fishing. The extra length and width provide a more stable platform, making it easier to balance and move around, which can be crucial for engaging in yoga poses and gaining flexibility (2) or managing fishing gear.

So, if your paddle boarding plans include yoga, fishing, or if you simply value a more stable and spacious board, the 11′ Aqua Plus paddle board is the recommended choice.

The Key Features Of Aqua Plus Paddle Boards

After putting the Aqua Plus 6″ Thick Inflatable SUP through its paces, here’s the lowdown on what makes it tick and a few things to think about before you buy.

Easy to Move Around

This paddleboard is pretty handy when it comes to moving it from point A to B. You can squash it down to just a foot across and 37 inches long, and since it only weighs 20lbs, carrying it isn’t too much of a sweat. It even fits nicely into the backpack it comes with. But, if you’re on the smaller side or not big on lifting, hauling it for a while might feel like a bit of a workout.

Deck and Stuff

The grip on the deck is top-notch, thanks to a 5mm diamond groove that keeps you from slipping around. And with 11 steel rings plus a bungee cord, strapping down your gear is easy. Though, if you’re the type to bring the kitchen sink, you might be wishing for a bit more room.

Comes with Everything

Aqua Plus throws in everything you need: an adjustable paddle, a strap for over your shoulder, a leash, a waterproof bag, and a pump that’s pretty smart. You can adjust the paddle’s length to fit you just right. The pump makes blowing up the board easier at first, but getting it to full pressure takes a bit of muscle.

So, those are the key features of the Aqua Plus Inflatable SUPs. It’s worth weighing these points against what you’re looking for in a paddleboard to see if it’s the right pick for you.

Customer Reviews

Overall, people think the Aqua Plus SUP is a solid choice for the cost, coming with all the bits and pieces you’d need. However, if you’re really serious about paddleboarding, this might not be the top performer you’re after. The design and extra carry strap are cool, but there are a few drawbacks, like the single fin, which might not cut it for everyone. I reckon it’s great for chill days on the lake, but maybe not for the pros out there.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, choosing between the two sizes boils down to personal preference and intended use, but either way, you’re getting a dependable board at a great price point. Aqua Plus paddle boards stand out as a testament to the idea that quality water sports equipment can be both accessible and affordable, making paddleboarding an enjoyable activity for paddlers of all skill levels.

FAQs

How do I inflate an Aqua Plus paddle board?

Inflating an Aqua Plus paddle board is straightforward. Begin by unfolding the board and locating the valve at the rear. Ensure the valve is in the closed position (pushed down and twisted clockwise). Attach the pump hose to the valve and start pumping. Aqua Plus boards typically take about 5 to 10 minutes to inflate, depending on the pump type and your pace. You should aim for a PSI of 12-15 for optimal rigidity. Once inflated, ensure the valve is securely closed before removing the pump hose.

How do you fold an Aqua Plus paddle board?

To fold your Aqua Plus paddle board, start by opening the valve to let all the air out. It helps to press down on the board or roll it gently to push air towards the valve. Once deflated, begin at the nose of the board and roll or fold towards the valve end to keep any remaining air moving out. Try to follow the original creases or folding pattern to fit it back into its bag easily. Make sure the board is dry before folding to avoid mildew or damage.

Are the fins and pumps good?

The fins and pumps provided with Aqua Plus paddle boards are generally well-regarded for their functionality and quality within the budget SUP category. The fins offer good tracking and stability for most water conditions, suitable for recreational paddling. The detachable fin system allows for versatility in shallow and deep waters. The double-action pump included with these boards is effective for quick inflation, switching to a single-action mode when higher pressure is needed, making it easier to reach the desired PSI. While there are higher-end options in the market, Aqua Plus accessories offer solid performance for casual and beginner paddlers.

Can Aqua Plus paddle boards handle ocean conditions?

Aqua Plus paddle boards are designed with versatility in mind and can handle a variety of water conditions, including calm ocean waters. Their stability and construction make them suitable for light ocean paddling, fishing, and yoga. However, in rougher sea conditions or for more aggressive surf SUP activities, a more specialized board might be necessary. The Aqua Plus is ideal for leisurely coastal explorations where water conditions are relatively calm.

How durable are Aqua Plus paddle boards?

Aqua Plus paddle boards are known for their durability, thanks to the military-grade PVC material and drop-stitch construction. They can withstand bumps and scrapes against rocks, docks, and other typical hazards without significant damage. Regular care and proper storage will extend their life further. While not indestructible, these boards offer a solid durability level, making them a reliable option for recreational paddlers looking for a long-lasting board without the high price tag of premium brands.

References:

1: BRETT WILLIAMS, NASM, How to Work Out Like a Paddle Board Champion, taken from https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a25298537/stand-up-paddleboard-workout-red-paddle/
2: Rachel Grice, 10 Yoga Poses for Flexibility From Head to Toe, taken from https://www.livestrong.com/article/13778866-yoga-for-flexibility/