Imagine gliding across a glassy lake, the sun warming your face, and the only sound is the gentle splash of your paddle. Sounds amazing, right? But choosing the right Touring Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different shapes, sizes, and features, it’s easy to get lost and end up with a board that doesn’t fit your adventures.
Many people want to explore further and longer on their SUPs, but they worry about picking a board that’s too slow, too wobbly, or just plain wrong for their needs. You might be wondering what makes one touring board better than another for covering miles, carrying gear, or simply enjoying a peaceful journey. We get it!
This post is here to clear the waters. We’ll break down what makes a great touring SUP and what you should look for to find your perfect paddling partner. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a board that will help you discover new places and make every paddle an adventure. Let’s dive in and find the touring SUP that’s right for you!
Our Top 5 Touring Stand Up Paddle Board Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Touring Stand Up Paddle Board Detailed Reviews
1. Mistral Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for adventure with the Mistral Verde 13’2″ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board! This board is designed for long-distance touring and racing, offering a great balance of speed and stability. Whether you’re exploring calm lakes or coastal waters, the Verde is built to handle it all with its durable and versatile design.
What We Like:
- Exceptional Durability: Made with advanced Knitted Dropstitch Technology and a robust PVC outer shell, this board is built to last.
- Stable and Versatile: The 13’2″ length and 30″ width provide a stable platform perfect for touring and even a bit of racing.
- High Weight Capacity: It can carry up to 160kg, with ample cargo space for your gear on longer trips.
- Complete Package: Everything you need is included: a dual-action pump, 3-part paddle, leash, and a tool-free fin.
- Peace of Mind: Backed by a 3-year warranty and certified by SGS, CE, and ISO for quality.
- Convenient Features: Includes center grab handles for easy carrying and an action camera mount to capture your paddling moments.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve for Beginners: While stable, the longer length might require a little practice for absolute beginners compared to shorter boards.
- Storage Space: While it has cargo tie-downs, a dedicated storage pocket might be a nice addition for smaller items.
The Mistral Verde 13’2″ iSUP is an outstanding choice for paddlers seeking a durable, high-performance board for long excursions. Its thoughtful design and comprehensive package make it ready for your next water adventure.
2. Retrospec Weekender Tour 11’6 Inflatable Paddle Board – Lightweight Touring SUP with Paddle
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready for adventure with the Retrospec Weekender Tour 11’6 Inflatable Paddle Board! This board is designed for fun on the water, whether you’re a beginner or looking for a reliable touring SUP. It’s lightweight, super tough, and comes with everything you need to hit the waves.
What We Like:
- Great for beginners and long trips: The pointed nose and slim shape make it easy to steer and paddle for a long time.
- Super strong and tough: Made with special technology, this board can handle rocks and rough water without getting punctured.
- Comfy and non-slip: The deck pad gives you a good grip, so you stay steady and comfortable, even after hours of paddling.
- Easy to carry anywhere: It’s really light (only 23.5 lbs!) and folds up small enough to fit in a backpack. You can easily take it on road trips or even on a plane.
- Comes with everything: You get the board, a paddle, pump, fins, leash, and even a phone case. Plus, there are bungees to hold your stuff!
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s built tough, very sharp objects could still pose a risk to the PVC material.
- The included paddle, while functional, might not be the best choice for serious paddlers who want the lightest or most efficient option.
The Retrospec Weekender Tour 11’6 is an excellent option for anyone wanting a versatile and durable inflatable paddle board. It offers a fantastic package for both new paddlers and experienced adventurers.
3. Retrospec Weekender XL Inflatable Paddle Board – Lake Essentials SUP with 400lb Capacity – Wide 11′ x 35″ x 8″ All-Around Board for Fishing & Touring – Complete Kit with Paddle
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for amazing adventures on the water with the Retrospec Weekender XL Inflatable Paddle Board! This big board is designed for fun, stability, and carrying lots of gear. It’s perfect for a relaxing day on the lake or exploring new places. You can even bring a friend or all your beach stuff because it holds up to 400 pounds. It inflates quickly and packs down small, making it super easy to take anywhere.
What We Like:
- ROCK-SOLID STABILITY: It’s really wide and thick, so it won’t wobble. This makes it easy to stand and paddle, even if you’re new to paddleboarding.
- BRING THE CREW: You can put up to 400 pounds on it! That means you can bring your cooler, your dog, or even a friend to join the fun.
- ADVENTURE-READY DESIGN: It has lots of places to tie down your gear with bungee cords and D-rings. Your stuff will stay safe and dry while you paddle.
- TRAVEL ANYWHERE: This paddle board folds up into a backpack. It’s so easy to carry from your car to the water.
- FULLY EQUIPPED: You get everything you need to start paddling right away: a paddle, a pump, fins, a leash, and even a special pad for your feet. There’s also a spot to attach a camera to record your adventures!
What Could Be Improved:
- While the board is very stable, some users might find the 8-inch thickness makes it slightly less maneuverable for advanced tricks.
- The included pump, while functional, might take a bit longer to inflate the board to its full pressure compared to electric pumps.
The Retrospec Weekender XL is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a stable, versatile, and portable paddle board. It’s ready for all your lake day essentials and more!
4. SLOOSH Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for adventure with the SLOOSH Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, the Aqua Surge! This 11’6″ board is designed for fun on the water, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler. It’s extra long and wide, making it super stable and easy to steer. The grippy deck keeps you safe, and it’s perfect for both kids and adults. You can use it on calm lakes or even for longer trips.
What We Like:
- The 11’6″ length and 34″ width make it very stable and easy to track.
- It comes with a complete premium kit, including a kayak convertible paddle, so you have everything you need.
- FortaFusion Technology makes it strong and durable, holding up to 350 lbs.
- The M8 mount lets you add accessories like cameras or cup holders, and the kickpad tail helps with quick turns.
- It includes a 1-year warranty for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for calm water and touring, it might be less ideal for very rough waves.
- The “Rapids SUP” name might suggest it’s for whitewater, which isn’t its primary strength.
The SLOOSH Aqua Surge paddle board offers a fantastic balance of stability, versatility, and value. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the water this summer.
5. Bluefin SUP Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to explore the water with the Bluefin SUP 14′ Sprint Model. This inflatable paddle board is built tough and designed for speed and long-distance touring. It comes with everything you need to hit the water right away.
What We Like:
- Super strong materials (1000D Density Exo Surface Laminate PVC & Pro Weave Drop Stitch) can handle up to 28 PSI for a rigid and stable ride.
- Bluefin plants a tree for every purchase, which is great for the environment.
- The angled nose helps you cruise smoothly and go farther, faster.
- It has plenty of space for your gear.
- The durable backpack is comfortable to carry with extra padding and wide straps.
- The lightweight, two-piece fiberglass paddle is easy to handle and the blade won’t chip.
- Both the paddle and the board float.
- The Smart Lock fin is easy to attach and provides great glide.
- The double-action pump inflates the board quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for speed, it might be less maneuverable for absolute beginners compared to wider boards.
This Bluefin SUP is an excellent choice for anyone who loves to paddle and wants a durable, high-performing board. It offers a fantastic package for exploring new waterways.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Touring Stand Up Paddle Board
Choosing the right touring SUP makes a big difference for your adventures. These boards are built for longer trips and exploring new waters.
1. Key Features to Look For
- Length: Longer boards (11-14 feet) are faster and track straighter. This means less work for you on long rides. Shorter boards are easier to turn but slower.
- Width: Wider boards (30-34 inches) offer more stability. This is great for beginners or when carrying extra gear. Narrower boards (28-29 inches) are faster but less stable.
- Thickness: Most touring boards are 6 inches thick. This provides good buoyancy and keeps you higher out of the water.
- Shape: Look for a pointed nose. This cuts through water smoothly, making paddling easier. A flatter tail helps with stability.
- Storage: Many touring boards have bungee cords or tie-downs. These are perfect for securing your paddle, water bottle, or a dry bag.
- Handles: Comfortable handles make carrying the board much easier, especially to and from the water.
2. Important Materials
- Inflatable SUPs (iSUPs): These are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They are durable and portable. Inside, they have thousands of “drop-stitch” threads that connect the top and bottom layers. This makes them stiff when inflated.
- Solid SUPs: These are often made from foam covered with fiberglass or epoxy resin. They are usually heavier but can be more rigid and perform better in some conditions. Wood veneer can also be used for a beautiful finish.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improved Quality:
- Stiffness: A stiffer board feels more solid and efficient. This comes from good construction and high-quality materials, especially in iSUPs.
- Tracking: How well a board goes in a straight line. A good fin system helps a lot.
- Durability: A well-made board will last longer. Check for reinforced seams on iSUPs and a strong outer shell on solid boards.
- Reduced Quality:
- Flex: A board that bends too much is tiring to paddle. It wastes your energy.
- Poor Tracking: If the board constantly drifts sideways, you’ll spend more time correcting your course.
- Leaking (iSUPs): Cheaply made iSUPs might have seam issues that lead to leaks.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Touring SUPs are built for exploring. They are great for:
- Long-distance paddling: Covering miles on lakes, calm rivers, or the ocean.
- Exploring coastlines: Discovering hidden coves and beaches.
- Fishing: The stability and storage make them good for casting a line.
- Photography: Carrying gear to capture beautiful scenery.
- Fitness: A great workout that also lets you enjoy nature.
The user experience is about effortless gliding and enjoying the journey. You want a board that feels stable and moves smoothly through the water. It should also be easy to handle both in and out of the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best touring SUP for beginners?
A: Beginners should look for wider boards (30-32 inches) for extra stability. A longer board (12 feet) will help with tracking. Inflatable boards are often a good choice because they are easier to store and transport.
Q: How does the fin affect my touring SUP?
A: The fin helps your board go straight. A longer, narrower fin usually provides better tracking for touring. Most touring boards come with a removable fin.
Q: Can I use a touring SUP on the ocean?
A: Yes, touring SUPs are excellent for the ocean. Their length and shape help them handle small waves and chop. Always check the weather and tide conditions before heading out.
Q: How much weight can a touring SUP hold?
A: Weight capacity varies by board. Generally, longer and wider boards can hold more weight. Check the product specifications for the exact weight limit. It’s good to have some extra capacity for gear.
Q: Is an inflatable touring SUP as good as a solid one?
A: For most people, yes. Modern inflatable touring SUPs are very rigid and perform almost as well as solid boards. They are much easier to store and transport, which is a big advantage.
Q: What accessories do I need for a touring SUP?
A: You’ll need a paddle, a leash (to stay attached to your board), and a personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket. A pump is also necessary for inflatable boards. Waterproof bags are great for keeping your gear dry.
Q: How do I care for my touring SUP?
A: Rinse your board with fresh water after each use, especially if you paddle in saltwater. Store it out of direct sunlight. For iSUPs, make sure it’s completely dry before deflating and rolling it up.
Q: What is “tracking” on a SUP?
A: Tracking is how well a board stays going in a straight line. Longer, narrower boards with good fins tend to track better. This means less effort for you to paddle straight.
Q: Are touring SUPs good for carrying gear?
A: Yes, touring SUPs are designed for carrying gear. They often have bungee tie-downs at the front and sometimes the back, allowing you to secure dry bags, water bottles, and other essentials for longer adventures.
Q: How important is the board’s thickness?
A: Thickness is important for buoyancy and stiffness. Most touring boards are 6 inches thick, which provides good support for the rider and gear. It also helps keep your feet drier by lifting you higher out of the water.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.