Best Kids Paddle Boards (Inflatable SUPs)

What is a kids paddleboard?

iSUP for kids is a great way to explore nature, do some recreational activity during sunny days or rainy days! It's also something children can enjoy doing with friends so everyone in the group can join together to have fun!

These products are designed to be sized for children and have features that make them more stable on the water. The kid can choose a bigger board if he wants. They will need the appropriate size leash so they don't lose their board while swimming near shoreline waves. These models would be great for kids and teenagers or older kids, as well as for youth.

How do paddleboards for kids work?

For paddling, kids should use one arm on each side of the board with their elbows bent at about ninety degrees in order to maintain stability and keep as much weight off of the front end of the board as possible. It's better to stand straight up when using a two-handed stroke motion (or "paddle") rather than bending over like adults do because it creates less drag and is easier for them to clear water from under their hands by reaching forward along an arc instead of trying to scoop water as adults do.

The main difference between an adult and kids paddleboard

Stand-up paddleboards for kids are designed to be sized for children and have features that make them more stable on the water. They need the appropriate size leash so they don't lose their board while swimmings. These models would be great for kids and teenagers or older children as well as youth-aged paddlers!

Important tips to using for kids stand up paddle board

• Keep in mind your child's age when choosing a kid's inflatable SUP – younger children may prefer something smaller with colorful designs whereas teens might enjoy experimenting with new shapes like fishtails.
• Consider how much storage space you have - some boards come with carrying handles that allow children to carry their own gear around.
• Consider the SUP for kids you are buying. Is it made of plastic, fiberglass, or composite material? It’s better to pick something that children can't break!

How to use kids paddleboard for beginners and skilled paddlers

Kids may find it easier to use a two-handed stroke than one-handed because they can more easily clear the front of the board by using their other hand for support, and they will need an appropriately sized paddleboard leash so they don't lose their board while swimming near shoreline waves or fishing docks.

Children should also always wear a life jacket that fits them properly in order to protect themselves from injury if paddling boards are used on rough waters like lakes, rivers, bays, and oceans where there is no protective barrier around them (like when being close to shorelines).

Kids who are interested in trying out paddle boarding but don't know how can benefit from reading our guide of essential questions answered with a pro.

What is the best type of stand up paddle board for kids?

Kids will need a paddleboard that fits them and is designed for their weight. They should also consider the features they want to include such as color, graphics, or shapes.

If you are trying to decide between buying a kids inflatable paddleboard versus a hard foam board, there are pros and cons of both types which we'll go over below.

What is the best position for a child to paddleboarding?

There are three main positions for safety paddleboarding:

1. standing;
2. kneeling;
3. laying.

As for first-time paddleboarders, the best position is standing. Experienced children can try the kneeling position, which is more stable and allows them to use their arms for balance or safety purposes if needed.

Types of SUP paddle boards for kids, juniors, and youth

Inflatable paddle board or iSUP

Kids often like these boards because they're easy to carry after inflating then deflating when finished playing in the ocean waves but don't provide much stability while paddling on flat surfaces like lakes. Young paddlers may also find it difficult to balance on an inflatable paddle board for kids and they can't use them while swimming near shorelines because the board will deflate.

Hard foam stand up paddle board

Kids like hard foam boards for stability and durability but some parents prefer inflatables over this type of board due to their weight (usually about 20lbs) which makes them more difficult to carry when not in use, as well as safety risks associated with carrying a heavy object around water.

Tip: Hard foam paddle boards usually have soft tops.

Kids should evaluate what is important to them before picking the right paddleboard.

What size of paddle board do I need for my kid?

Kids need an appropriately sized stand up paddle board so they don't lose their board while swimming. They can choose a bigger board if they want but will need the appropriate size life jacket in order to protect themselves from injury when paddling boards are used on rough waters.

Tip: Children must be supervised at all times during recreational activities!

How do I benefit from a stand up paddle board for kids?

• Kids will benefit from an appropriate size and type of paddleboard for their individual needs.
• Kids can also use this board to improve balance, coordination, muscle strength, or have fun with friends in the ocean waves!

Tip: Kids should be supervised by adults because they are unable to assess risk on their own.

What are the drawbacks of SUP for kids?

1. It's better to use a junior paddle board that is the appropriate size for their weight in order to avoid injury.
2. They may also have difficulty balancing on these boards and they can't use them while swimming near shorelines because they can be deflated.

Is kids paddle board worth it?

• Child paddle boards are worth the investment because they provide a stimulating activity that improves balance, coordination, and muscle strength while having fun in the water.
• Kids can also have their own board to use at home or in their pool for practice without needing an adult nearby during every session which makes them more independent.

What materials do child paddle board comes in?

A child can choose a paddleboard that is made of either hard foam or soft inflatable material.

Tip: The brushed EVA deck is comfortable to stand up, it's also very rigid when inflated and feels like a regular hard paddleboard.

There are also other factors to consider such as the weight, price, and size which we'll go over in the next sections below.

What is the best place for kids paddleboard to practice?

The best place to practice their paddleboarding skills is in a pool or at the beach. Kids can also try using these boards on lakes, rivers, and bays with calm water where there are no waves.

How to care about junior paddle boards?

Kids paddleboards need to be cleaned and dried after use in order to avoid bacteria, mold, or mildew from growing on the surface.

Tip: Never leave the board in direct sunlight for extended periods of time without a cover because it can explode due to pressure buildup caused by heat exposure!

Fids stand up paddle boards maintenance

Youth paddle boards should be wiped down after paddlers use them in the ocean to remove sand and salt. Brush off any dirt or debris with a soft brush, rinse with fresh water, dry towel then store it properly.

Tip: Store SUP for kids upright when not in use so that the air can flow into the valve which will help prevent mold from developing inside of the material.

Things to consider before buying kids SUP board

Child’s Age

Size matters more than age when it comes to stand up paddle board for kids. Children's size and weight can vary greatly, so purchase according to the children's supported weight instead of their ages.

If your child is a beginner, it's crucial to find a SUP board that is easy to use for first-time users. Choose rigid boards that are not too heavy and offer good balance so they'll be comfortable on the board from the start.

Even so, age is an important consideration when deciding whether to take your child paddle boarding in the first place. While 5-year olds and older are generally safe on a board, younger children (ages 5 or under) should wait before venturing into these waters.

Quality of construction

Kids inflatable paddle board are usually made of PVC and other types of plastic while a hard foam board is typically constructed with polystyrene or fiberglass. You should evaluate the construction material to decide if it will stand up to regular use by checking for any sharp edges that might tear their inflatable life jacket, as well as seams that could leak water onto them when paddling

Durability

Look for a board that has been made with durable material and will last through regular use by kids.

Material

There are two main materials for kids SUP boards:

• Fiberglass/polystyrene foam for hard models.
• Soft PVC for inflatable models.

What is the difference and what is the best? It's up to the individual preference and depends on what you're looking for.

Hard models have a soft top that children like but can be heavy to carry around, whereas kids inflatable paddle boards come with their own carrying bag which is convenient when storing them after use or transporting them while not in use.

Inflatable models often deflate if kids fall off the board because of weight restrictions so it's best to avoid this type of model unless kids don't plan on going far from the shoreline during recreational activity.

Design

Stand up paddle board for kids might have a cool design and vibrant color for visibility, for example, turtle design or other characters that they like, which can be an added bonus to get them excited about the activity.

Some models come with their own backpack for carrying and this is also convenient because kids won't need an adult nearby if they want to use the board.

The weight limit on kids boards should not exceed 40 pounds in order to avoid injury so it's best to find one made without sharp edges or seams where water could leak.

Tip: Pretty colors are highly visible and appealing to children. They might also want a board that has their favorite character on it for visual appeal and racing, but this is just a preference.

Some models also come with a textured deck that helps kids grip the board better, especially in wetsuits or bare feet.

Safety

Kids should also make sure they only use the appropriate size paddleboard because if it is too large, they will have difficulty balancing on board.

Tip: Appropriate model can provide first-time paddlers with fun and safe use.

Extra side chambers

Extra side chambers provide more stability and help them have a greater range of motion during the activity.

Tip: Kids can use this when they first learn how to paddleboard for additional support or turn around in place if they are on their front so they can't fall off board while paddling.

Weight capacity

You should look for kids paddleboard that has a weight limit of 40 pounds in order to avoid injuries.

Tip: It's better for kids if the boards they use is lighter and easier to carry because they can't do this on their own often enough.

Overall, hard and inflatable paddle boards for kids are sturdy enough to support up to 100lbs on average, 220lbs - max.

Ease to carry

It's always up to kids' preference, but they will have a more difficult time carrying around or transporting their paddleboard if it is too heavy.

Tip: It might be better to look for a lightweight board that can easily collapse when not in use so children won't get frustrated with the weight of it and decide not to play with it because they don't want to carry it all the time.

Some designs come with backpacks which makes storing easier after use or while not using.

So, choose lightweight and easy for youth inflatable paddle board to carry to and from the water.

Length

The length of kids iSUP paddleboard will depend on the child's height and weight.

Tip: It’s important to find a board that is the right size for kids so they can balance properly without fear of falling off in deep water.

The average length of kids inflatable SUP is 8 feet.

Weight

Children models usually are lightweight: from 12lbs for inflatable models to 22lbs for hard models. But there are heavier models too.

Tip: The kids stand up paddle board weight limit should not exceed 40lbs to prevent injury during recreational activities.

Stability and balance

It's important for kids to feel safe on their board. To prevent them from falling off, they should use a model that has stability for them. A thick and wide base provides stability and balance.

Some child paddle boards will also offer first-time paddlers with extra side chambers in order to provide additional support or turn around if they are on their front so they can't fall off the board when kayaking without help from an adult nearby during recreational activity.

Tip: kids SUP board models are often wider than adults paddleboards which is great because they need more support to keep steady while paddling.

Seat

You can attach a kayak seat and transform the paddleboard into a sit-on-top kayak. That's very comfortable for the child to give his body to have a rest, especially during long trips.

Bungee cord tie-downs

Some kids paddleboards come with bungee cord tie-downs in order to secure items so they can bring water bottles, and other belongings. Bungee cord tie-downs will help with securing essential gear.

Tip: It's good also to carry a change of clothes or dry clothes because there is a chance kid might get wet on the way home.

Non-slip traction pad

The top deck includes a cushioned, non-slip traction pad to help provide a comfortable and sure grip.

Tip: Kids will need to be careful when they go onto the board with wet feet because they can slip and end up in deep water.

Fins

Four fixed fins provide straight tracking and precise maneuvering.

Tip: Make sure boards have fins when children go on the board because it will help them be more stable and not as likely to fall over.

Addition options

Some models provide the board with using additional gear:

• Stainless D-ring and stretch tie-down for gear or towing.
• D-rings for fitting a kayak seat on it.
• Stainless-steel tail ring for a safety leash.

Splash guards

Some models have splash guards around the bow to improve the experience. It'll help kids avoid getting wet when they go paddleboard on choppy water.

Tip: Splash guards can be helpful for those who are paddling on deep waters during recreational activity to keep them dry all day.

Portability

The kids stand up paddle board should be easy to carry. So youth paddle boards are often lighter and more compact than adult boards, but you should always consider how kids want to transport their boards. Some customers will find it easier if the board folds up or has a backpack so kids don't have to talk about carrying the weight during recreational activity.

Some models come with backpacks which makes storing easier after use or while not using.

Versatality

What's great about the best models is their versatility! Children can do activities from flat-water kayaking, surfing with small waves or having fun at home by playing around on lakes and rivers without fear of injury - all within the stand up paddle board for kids.

SUP paddle

Kids paddleboards usually come with kids-sized adjustable SUP paddles because children need to paddle from the trunk, but make sure they have a chance to explore and test out different sizes of boards before making your purchase.

Tip: Some SUPs for kids will also include bungee cord tie-down so children can attach items they want on their board such as water bottles and other items they want.

Textured grip

Textured grip is a great option because young paddlers can grip the handlebars easier without slipping off, especially when they go through deep water or choppy waves.

Tip: The kids paddleboard should be balanced and comfortable to use during recreational activity so it's important that children feel safe on their board.

Set

The set can include some features:

• starter pump,
• adjustable aluminum paddle,
• steering fins,
• carry bag for convinient using, carring and storing,
• surf leash,
• repair patch.

Tip: Kids stand up paddle boards are usually more affordable than adult models, but you should still make sure they're getting a good quality board for the best experience during recreational activity so kids can have fun and enjoy themselves.

Features

Youth inflatable paddle boards are usually kids-friendly, budget-friendly, and lightweight.

Overall, these product is a great opportunity to go outside and spend a great time for all skill levels of your kid, no matter where you are - on flat water or on small waves.

Tip: If a child wants to do recreational activity on a junior paddle board he should be able to enjoy himself with all the features that it offers. Kids SUP boards also come in different colors so they can choose what color board suits their personality best! Make sure they have fins installed if going into deep water areas such as choppy waves. Children also can attach items they want on their boards with bungee cord ties like water bottles, food containers, etc.

Important tips to using for youth paddle board

• Make sure kid is standing on the board and not kneeling because it will help he be more stable while paddling.
• Kid should always wear a life jacket.
• Kids need to be careful when they use the board on choppy waters because they can slip and fall in deep water.
• Kids should always make sure that they have fins installed when going onto a SUPs so it will help them balance better.
• If using alternative paddles, kids may want to get adjustable length SUP paddles for their height level or even try out different sizes before buying one.
• Kid should still wear helmet if riding waves while recreational activity on paddle board.

Avoid Surf-Style SUP for kids!

If you see a kids stand up paddleboard advertising as surfing-styled SUP, we recommend avoiding it. While paddling on a surf-style board can have its advantages for adults, this should only be attempted by more experienced users who are not beginners at paddling. It’s too risky for children unless they're already proficient in kayaking or canoeing with huge experience.