Paddleboarding has seen an exponential growth curve over the last few years, and unfortunately with this comes an increase in the costs of the sport. So, if you’ve ever wondered about a paddleboard cost – then you’re in the right place!

In this article – I’ll be covering how much you should expect to pay for a paddleboard (and how to snag yourself some great deals on equipment).

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

Let’s get into it 🌊

First off…

Why Are Paddleboards So Damn Expensive?

There are a few factors around why paddleboards can get expensive, these are the main ones:

Materials	High-quality materials are a significant factor in the cost of paddleboards. Premium boards are typically made from materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or epoxy, which provide durability and performance but come at a higher cost than cheaper alternatives.
Production Techniques	The manufacturing process for paddleboards can be complex and labor-intensive. Crafting a paddleboard with attention to detail and precision contributes to its cost.
Branding and Reputation	Established brands with a reputation for quality tend to charge higher prices for their products. This premium is often associated with reliability, customer support, and a history of producing excellent gear.
Design and Innovation	Some paddleboards incorporate innovative design features, such as advanced hull shapes, integrated accessories, or unique construction methods. These innovations can drive up the cost.
Market Demand	As stand-up paddleboarding gains popularity, the demand for high-quality boards has increased, allowing manufacturers to command higher prices.

Let’s get into more detail on how this all works.

Paddleboard Cost: What Is The Average Price Range?

When it comes to paddleboarding – you need a few different things for everything to work. You need a board, leash, paddle & fin at a bare minimum.

A complete paddleboard set will generally cost between $500 to $1,200 or more.

But the price is impacted by other factors such as the type of paddleboard, the materials and the construction.

Types Of Paddleboards

There are generally 5 different types of paddleboards that are worth talking about right now, and those are:

• Racing paddleboards (prone)
• All round touring paddleboards
• Surfing paddleboards
• Inflatable paddleboards
• Yoga paddleboards

Each of these different boards carry a different price because they are different sizes and materials. We will cover materials more later in the article but for now just understand that the bigger the board – the higher the cost.

The average paddleboard size seems like it’s around 10-11 feet, and it can get even bigger with the yoga paddleboards!

Paddleboard Materials & Construction

This might seem obvious, but paddleboards can be made of different materials and each of them will impact the price of the board.

The most common materials that you’ll see on hard boards are:

• Foam
• Epoxy
• Carbon FIber
• Fiberglass

This is what the construction of an average hard paddleboard looks like.

The most common materials that you’ll see on inflatable boards are:

• PVC that is layered
• EVA deck pads
• Inflation valves and seals
• Rail tape
• Cross stitching

You can get an idea of the construction here:

So you can see that hard paddleboards will generally carry a higher price tag than inflatable paddleboards because of the extra materials that they need to construct the board.

Along with that – things like fiberglass are much more expensive to produce than basic PVC, so that will explain the major differences between hard and inflatable paddleboard prices.

Accessories

So on top of all the above factors, we are missing out on the different accessories that add to the price of paddleboarding.

Here is what an average paddleboard setup looks like:

It includes the pump, fin and paddle which will also add to the price of the sport.

And on top of that, there are a huge variety of other accessories that you can add to your setup in order to make it a better experience for yourself.

Here are 23 top accessories to make your paddleboarding experience better: The 23 Best Paddleboard Accessories That You Need In 2024

Paddleboard Cost: Summary

So you can see from the above all the factors that impact the price of the paddleboards that you see all around you.

Here is a quick summary of the different cost ranges that you’re most likely see.

Inflatable Paddleboards

CATEGORY	PRICE RANGE
Beginner Range	$300 – $450
Mid Range	$450 – $800
Top Range	$800 – $1,600

Epoxy (Hard) Paddleboards

CATEGORY	PRICE RANGE
Beginner Range	$700 – $1,200
Top Range	$1,200 – $2,000+

Now that we know how the costs are made up, let’s talk about how to get great paddleboards at a discount.

How To Get The Best Gear On A Tight Budget

First things first – you need to set a realistic budget based on the pricing structures above. What is in your range?

This will help you narrow down your options and prevent overspending.

Next thing you can do is decide if you want to buy new or used.

Buying New vs. Used

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a new or used paddleboard. We’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you make an informed choice.

Buying A New Paddleboard

Pros:

• Warranty: New paddleboards often come with warranties that cover manufacturing defects. This can provide peace of mind and protection in case of issues.
• Latest Technology: New boards may incorporate the latest design and technology advancements, offering improved performance, stability, and durability.
• Brand New Condition: You receive a board in pristine condition with no wear or tear, ensuring it performs at its best from day one.
• Customization: You can choose from a variety of models, sizes, and designs, allowing you to find the perfect board to suit your specific needs.
• No Hidden Problems: You won’t have to worry about hidden defects or repairs that might be necessary with a used board.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: New paddleboards tend to be more expensive than used ones, which can be a significant upfront investment.
• Depreciation: Just like with many other products, the value of a new board can depreciate quickly, especially if you decide to sell it later.

Buying A Used Paddleboard

Pros:

• Cost Savings: Used paddleboards are generally more budget-friendly than new ones, allowing you to get into the sport at a lower cost.
• Access to Quality Brands: You might be able to afford a high-end brand or model that would be out of your budget if purchased new.
• Good for Beginners: Used boards are often recommended for beginners who are still learning and might not want to invest heavily upfront.
• Minimal Depreciation: Since the board has already experienced its initial depreciation, it may retain its value better than a new board.

Cons:

• Uncertain History: You may not know the board’s full history, including how it was maintained and whether it has sustained any damage.
• Potential Repairs: Used boards may require repairs or maintenance, which can add to the overall cost.
• Limited Selection: You might have to compromise on the type, size, or design of the board since used boards are available based on what’s currently on the market.
• No Warranty: Generally, used boards do not come with warranties, so you’re responsible for any issues that arise after the purchase.
• Hidden Problems: There’s a risk of hidden defects that might not be immediately apparent, such as cracks or delamination.

Based on the above factors, I recommend that you look into a new inflatable paddleboard because it will give you the best long term usage and allow you to grow as a rider.

But if you don’t want to buy new then here are some hints on where to find used SUP setups.

Where to Find Great Deals

Scoring a great deal on paddleboard equipment can make a significant difference in your paddleboard cost. The easiest way to find second hand equipment is on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or at local paddleboard shops.

Essential Gear

Beyond the paddleboard itself, there’s a range of gear you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. The essentials are:

• Paddleboard
• Fin
• Pump
• Paddle

That’s all you need right now to get up and on the water.

Paddleboard Cost: My Budget-Friendly Gear Options

For those looking to save money without compromising on quality, I’ll recommend some budget-friendly gear options that won’t break the bank.

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LOW BUDGET STARTER OPTIONS

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Tower All Around Inflatable Paddle Board Package

Tower paddleboards are seriously good! They are one of the original paddleboard creators and they have a long history of producing some really high quality stuff. This is their starter edition that is designed to get you on the water at a really affordable paddleboard cost.

Here is the explainer video to see all the unique engineering that they use in their stand up paddleboards:

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The next recommendation is from one of my favorite brands – ISLE.

ISLE Pioneer 10’6″ iSUP Package

This board is honestly one of the best paddleboards that I’ve ever tried. I’m a big fan of ISLE paddleboards and if you’re looking for an introductory starter board then this is a great option.

Here is the explainer video talking about the unique attributes of this SUP:

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MID RANGE OPTIONS

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Tower Adventurer 2 Inflatable Paddle Board Package

This is the updated performance version of the Tower paddleboard range. It has seen some big improvements in the stability, durability and performance aspects which is why the price is higher.

Along with that – the accessories are better which also adds to the cost and turns it into a great mid-range SUP.

Here is the explainer video for this board:

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Another great mid-range paddleboard option is the Atoll 11’SUP

Atoll 11′ iSUP

The Atoll inflatable stand up paddleboard is a heavy duty mid-range paddleboard that is made of some of the best materials that you can find. Something that I love is the fact that it caters to heaver paddleboarders because they can often struggle with thinner board profiles. It is a high performance board that is great in all conditions and for the price that it comes at – this is a purchase that you will never regret

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HIGH RANGE OPTIONS

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Finally we get into the top performers.

Here are my recommendations if you have a higher budget and are looking for quality 🙂

Tower Xtreme 8″ Thick Inflatable Paddle Board Package

This is the top performing paddleboard from Tower. It’s the best of the best and it’s perfect for larger riders. It has industry leading rigidity which makes it extremely stable. You can take it into all water conditions and it will function nicely – and it has some of the best durability that I’ve ever seen.

Here is the explainer video around why you should seriously consider this SUP:

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Conclusion

In conclusion, stand-up paddleboarding can be a thrilling and budget-friendly activity if you plan wisely. By understanding the costs, setting a budget, and exploring your options, you can enjoy this fantastic sport without breaking the bank.

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

Paddleboard Cost FAQs

How much does a basic paddleboard cost?

The cost of a basic paddleboard can vary widely but typically starts at around $300 for an entry-level model.

Is it better to buy a paddleboard package or individual gear?

It depends on your needs. Buying a package can be cost-effective, but individual gear selection allows for more customization.

Where can I find second-hand paddleboards for sale?

You can find used paddleboards on websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or at local paddleboard shops.

Are inflatable paddleboards a good budget option?

Yes, inflatable paddleboards can be a cost-effective choice, and they offer the advantage of easy storage and transport. I recommend getting an inflatable paddleboard over a hard epoxy board as a beginner.

How often should I maintain my paddleboard?

Regular maintenance is essential. Check your board and gear after each use and perform a more thorough inspection periodically, especially if you’re in saltwater environments.