Wednesday, June 8, 2022

(Inflatable) Paddleboards Are Better Than Ever Before

Welcome to the golden age of paddleboarding!
TRAVEL TODAY



REI's Anniversary Sale is the Official Summer Kick-Off We've Been Waiting For
Water Sports
(Inflatable) Paddleboards Are Better Than Ever Before
Many things changed for me when I moved to the West Coast almost a decade ago. I got soft about cold weather. My fondness for avocado toast grew. I became pretentious about produce. And I discovered paddleboarding.

As someone who has been described frequently by friends and family as "intense," paddleboarding has been a welcome approach to being outside. It's genuinely a mindful and meditative activity (I know, the West Coast is coming out again).

Before I lose you, hear me out. Inflatable paddleboards are a game-changer. Many traditional paddleboarders will advocate for the rigidity of hard boards. And I agree. But inflatable paddleboards have progressed and made the sport more accessible—they're less expensive, pack down smaller, and are lighter.

I've been testing paddleboards for the past few years near my home in Ventura County, California, and in mountain rivers and lakes. These are some of my favorites:
  • Atoll 11-Foot SUP: This board is a straight-up river-runner and lake cruiser. I've been testing and watching others try it for a couple of years now and can confidently say it rips. It inflates quickly, can run rapids, be a base for fly fishing, and pack down easily. Plus, it's fairly lightweight.
  • BOTE HD Aero SUP: A stable board is a good board. Especially for beginners. And this one is stable. For any beginners, children, or people just looking for a good float, this is a solid board to get as a starter.
  • BOTE Rackham Inflatable SUP: For the ultra-newbies, greenhorns, or those looking for a duo paddleboard/kayak duo, this is the board. You'd have to try very hard to tip this SUP. It'd be good for any expeditions, fishing missions, or taking kids or dogs out for a ride.
Welcome to the golden age of paddleboarding, my friends! It's a great time to get into the sport and invest in a new recreational activity.


READ NOW



Astrid Taran Nathan Allen
Outdoor Gear Editor


Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products and services; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

A Women's Rock Climbing Camp Was One of My Most Empowering Travel Experiences
Water Sports
A Beginner's Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding
read more
10 Climbing Harnesses for Every Terrain, From the Gym to the Crag
Style
9 Rash Guards to Stave Off the Sun and Chafing on Your Next SUP Excursion
read more
14 Hiking Shirts That Are Lightweight, Wick Moisture, and Offer Top Sun Protection
Health & Beauty
9 Sunscreen Formulas That Have Plenty of SPF and Promise Effective Coverage
read more
15 Spectacular Places to Go Rock Climbing in the US
Shoes
Non-Slip, Quick-Drying, and Lightweight: 10 Pairs of Women's Water Shoes We Love
read more
The 7 Best Chalk Bags of 2022
Tech & Gear
We Tested the Best Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboards to Take Anywhere
read more
You'll Never Want to Take Off These Ultra-Comfy Women's Travel Leggings
Tech & Gear
These Waterproof Phone Pouches Will Keep Your Devices Dry, Protected, and Afloat
read more
Fuel Up in the Outdoors With These Easy-to-Pack Snacks
Tech & Gear
The Absolute Best Life Vests of 2022
read more
Leak-Proof, Durable, and Lightweight: 8 Water Bottles for Your Next Adventure
Tech & Gear
Paddling at Night? These Headlamps Will Keep You Exploring Despite the Darkness
read more
VACATION LIKE A PRO
You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Travel Today newsletter.
If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here
A DOTDASH BRAND
© 2021 Dotdash.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy.

If you believe this has been sent to you in error, please safely unsubscribe.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Blog Archive