To keep your child safe and dry, you will want to invest in the best kids paddle board to take out on your family adventures. Whilst you can find many boards large enough to fit you and your child, as they get older and more adventurous they will no doubt want their own one.
Top 3 Picks
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
The Complete Children’s SUP Guide
The top paddle boards for kids are smaller, lighter and usually cheaper than the SUP boards that you will have seen previously. They are built specifically for children to help them learn how to paddle board.
When your kids are old enough, you should encourage them to go out on their own and enjoy the fact that you no longer have to share your own board. If you are looking for a way to really unwind whilst your kids are charting the waters, check out our list of the best paddle boards for fishing!
We used our expertise in all things sports, and our personal experience paddle boarding, to craft this buyers guide to help you pick the safest, highest-quality and best board for your kids. We also spoke with the owner of a local SUP school to get their opinion on the things every parent needs to look for when selecting a new board for their offspring.
Tables of Contents
Best Kids SUP Boards
- THURSO Surf Prodigy Junior Kids Inflatable SUP
- DAMA Youth 10′ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- YASK Children Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Tuexdor Sailor Kids SUP
- GILI All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Package
- Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana
- Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Airhead Popsicle 730 iSUP
- Aqua Marina Vibrant
- FunWater Ultra-Light Inflatable Paddle Board
Review Criteria
How to Select the Best Paddle Board for Kids
Junior Paddle Boarders Safety Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sources
10 Best Kids SUP Boards
1. THURSO SURF Prodigy Junior Kids Inflatable SUP
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
This board features a nice, sleek blue or pink camouflage design. Kids (boys or girls) will love the cool look and feel of the board. If your child has expressed an interest in paddle boarding, this should be one of your first options. Expertly designed with kids in mind, you will struggle to find a safer and higher-quality board.
Size & Materials
THURSO SURF, measuring at 34.8″x16.1″x10.2″, delivers a durable iSUP structure, including a triple military-grade PVC coating and double-layer construction. The two PVC layers reinforce the solid structure on the side and deck, keeping the paddle board lightweight and steady. THURSO SURF’s carbon shaft paddle only weighs two pounds and has a nylon composite to eliminate warping.
Features
This board includes three removable fins, providing two different options for setups. Each has a unique benefit of maneuver through the water while assuring stability for all junior-aged paddlers, making it one of the best kids paddle boards.
Positives
- Designed specifically for children.
- Blue and pink design options.
- Attractive camo pattern design.
- Great size for younger SUP boarders.
- Strong, solid materials.
Negatives
- This specialist product comes at a slightly higher price than the most basic starter boards.
2. DAMA Youth 10’ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
This board offers a more subtle, understated design for slightly older kids. It is a more affordable option than the board above, so it could be good a option for kids just dipping their toes in to the sport (so to speak!).
Size & Materials
This board takes only ten minutes to deflate and is simple to set up. It includes steel D-rings, making it convenient to carry. This paddle board measures 10’x30”x4” and contains lightweight PVC, UV-proof, and anti-corrosion materials to make it high capacity and stable for wider bodies of water. It also includes a detachable floating paddle, made of a hollow, aluminum alloy design.
Features
This board offers features with kids in mind, including a 5-liter waterproof bag for belongings and shoulder straps for easy carrying. The bag is perfect for transporting food, drinks, clothes, and other mobile equipment. The four D-rings also ensure that parents can keep their children close when learning the ropes.
Positives
- Affordable option great for beginners.
- A more subtle, understated design.
- Lighter paddle for kids with less strength.
- Comes with accessories to keep your kids personal belongings safe and dry.
- Suitable for touring, yoga and drifting in fresh or salt water (take it abroad or use it at home).
Negatives
- Single action pump might mean it takes you and the kids longer to pump up the board.
- As an all-round board, it is great for general paddle boarding but its features are less specialized (if you know you/your kid wants to use it for yoga and yoga only, consider going with another option).
3. YASK Children Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
A cute, kid-friendly design partnered with a great price and all the accessories your child will need out on the water makes this a great option for a first board. The kangaroo design makes the board highly appealing to kids and the strong Korean strength DWF material makes the board appealing to parents.
Size & Materials
The YASK inflatable stand-up board contains a safe surface for kids because of the DWF Korean strength material. It includes an extra layer of PVC for board rails, which delivers a durable foundation. Measuring at 9’x30”x4”, it provides additional width and balance. The bottom of the board contains a triple panel of fins to help improve steering and handling.
Features
YASK built many kid-friendly features into its paddle board. The center carry handle makes for easy transport, while the non-slip EVA deck prevents slipping. Children have easy access to their bag of valuables, thanks to the nose bungee system.
Positives
- Cute design loved by kids.
- Super strong material makes the board long lasting and durable.
- Affordable price.
- Reinforced board rails.
- Accessories such as bag and ankle leash comes with the board!
Negatives
- Some comments on issues with the pump.
4. Tuexdor Sailor Kids SUP
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
This SUP board offers an adorable design that your kids will love. It is meant to be incredibly buoyant and secure for kids of all levels (even those who have yet to develop their balance).
Size & Materials
Teuexdor’s SUP has a double-layer construction on its durable 8’x30”x4” board. It comes with a neoprene handle and a removable side fin for easy carrying. The non-slip EVA deck pad makes it easy for a child to learn the ropes on any body of water. Tuexdor constructs its board with an extra layer of PVC board rails for added strength.
Features
The Tuexdor SUP comes with a double-action high-pressure pump, adjustable paddle, coil leash, travel backpack, bungee rope storage system, and waterproof bag. This board is an ideal, safe option for kids because of its ample 30”-width and lighter weight of 13.1 pounds.
Positives
- Buoyant, thick materials helps kids of all abilities stay afloat.
- Adorable design for younger users.
- Non slip deck for added stability.
- Can keep children up to 150 lbs safely floating.
Negatives
- Child friendly design means as your child get older (particularly 10 and over/into the teenage years) they might look for/want a more grown up board.
5. GILI All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Package
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
A great option for young ones to grow into. The GILI board is perfect for active kids looking to explore the great outdoors with a paddle board that can be used as their skills advance. An extremely durable option great for families who like to travel far and wide with their SUP gear.
Size & Materials
This inflatable board delivers a combination of weight, size, and balance. It measures 10’6×31”x6” and weighs 19 pounds. The construction includes reinforced, cross-stitched PVC, which lowers the chance of damage. Because of the 6-inch thickness, beginner paddlers can learn with confidence.
Features
The package comes with a hand pump, coiled leash, travel paddle, inflatable backpack, and a 9-inch center fin that snaps-in. GILI’s design makes it ideal for children. It contains a larger diamond traction surface to eliminate the chance of slippage.
Positives
- Great board for families who like to stay active on the go.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- 6-inch thick design makes it a good option for beginners.
- Pump, leash and paddle included.
- Weight limit of up to 280 lbs means even teenagers and adults can confidently use the board.
Negatives
- Limite color options.
6. Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
The Hydro-Force Oceana features a sleek, elegant design which would appeal to paddle boarders of all ages (from infants to teenagers and young adults!). You can also select from a number of different color options.
Size & Materials
This is an excellent option for beginners because of its wide base and stability. It measures 9’x30”x6”, and the inflatable board is much more portable, affordable, and stable compared to a hard board. This board is made with resistant Drop Stitch and TriTech materials, making it more reliable than traditional products.
Features
Bestway’s Hydro-Force comes with a travel bag, hand pump, and surf leash. It contains an elastic cord for extra storage. The board’s drop-stitch feature connects the internal surfaces, sealing air and keeping the board rigid, but lightweight.
Positives
- Cool and trendy design (with multiple color options).
- Wide base for added stability (good for younger and more clumsy users).
- Strong and resistant Drop Stich and TriTech material.
- Comes with the accessories you will need to get out on the water.
Negatives
- Not the best option for younger boarders (unless being used with adult supervision).
7. Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (6” Thick)
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
An age appropriate board with a huge selection of color options. This is a board for all ages that your kid can really grow into. On top of that, it is highly affordable. The paddle is lightweight and suitable for boarders of all strengths and sizes.
Size & Materials
FBSport’s Board provides stability because of its longer deck width and military-grade materials. Its specifications of 10’x30”x6” offer a spacious design, making it one of the best kids paddle boards on the market. The soft, non-slip top deck makes this product ideal for different ages and skill levels.
Features
This board is perfect for cruising, exploring, and fishing because of its proportions and length. It includes a carrying backpack, high-pressure pump, removable fin, and ankle leash. Its durable materials provide anti-UV and anti-aging properties to help children paddle with ease. FBSport also produces the board in a sleek dark and light blue color.
Positives
- Huge selection of color options for people with all different styles and tastes.
- Highly affordable board.
- Light-weight paddle for youths of all strengths and sizes.
- Soft non-slip deck for added safety.
- Good for cruising, exploring and even SUP fishing.
Negatives
- Some issues noted with the pump.
8. Airhead Popsicle 730 ISUP
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
Let your child release their inner surfer with this laid back, cool design board. A great light weight board for younger adventurers. It comes with a useful mesh backpack and a board repair kit in case you do cause some damage.
Size & Materials
The Airhead is an ideal option for introductory youth paddlers because of its compact design and EVA pad, which provides a solid grip and reliable traction. Measuring 84”x30”x6” and weighing 19 pounds, the lightweight popsicle structure will make paddling fun. Its diamond-cut platform gives kids the confidence and stability to glide on the water.
Features
Apart from its sturdy materials, the board is convenient to carry. It contains a molded handle for transport and D-ring for securing the valuables. The removable fin makes it easy for kids to learn paddle boarding.
Positives
- Trendy, simple design which kids will love.
- Light weight option for youths and juniors.
- Handy mesh backpack included.
- Comes with a board repair kit in case the board sustains any damage (as can happen when a boarder is less experienced).
Negatives
- More expensive option.
- Shorter design makes it only suitable for younger boarders (you will have to upgrade ones they reach the teenage years).
9. Aqua Marina Vibrant
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
The fun spot design on the Aqua Marina board will give your child added confidence before they even step foot on the water. You could also use them as fun focus points when teaching them how to turn and use the board. Partnered with a spectacular price (which this board offers) and you have a top contender for the best kids SUP board.
Size & Materials
The Aqua Marina board is rigid and capable of inflating up to 15 PSI. It contains drop-stitch construction and durable PVC materials for added security. Designed for beginning paddlers, Aqua Marina delivers a quality product measuring 103”x30”x4”. Its ideal combination of lightness and stability makes it easy to carry on the go.
Features
This board comes with a fin, starter pump with gauge, and carry bag. It includes a stainless-steel D-ring near the tail for a reliable safety leash. Although the maximum recommended weight is slightly lower at 154 pounds, this board contains the materials and EVA deck to help young kids learn paddle boarding at a reasonable price.
Positives
- Fun yellow and spot design.
- Sturdy, strong drop-stitched design.
- Perfect for real beginners.
- Carry bag and pump included.
- Designed for kids and teenagers.
Negatives
- Does not come with a paddle.
10. FunWater Ultra-Light Inflatable Paddle Board
*Details last updated on 2023-05-30
As the name suggests, the FunWater board delivers on fun! Choose from a blue or a pink design and benefit from the ultra light construction. You also get a generous warranty with this board, making it a great gift for those you know will put it to good use and really test it!
Size & Materials
FunWater’s inflatable paddle board is constructed with a lighter dual-layer PVC, which makes it stable and suitable for all ages and skill levels. Once inflated, the board measures 10.5’x33”x6” and holds a maximum weight of 330 pounds. Its additional layer of PVC board rails and EVA non-slip floor mats provide more stability for the beginner paddler.
Features
FunWater’s paddle board comes with many convenient features, including the high-pressure spring valve for efficient inflation and deflation. It also allows the paddler to secure a bag of essential belongings because of the front bungee. The removable 10-inch fins provide enhanced tracking while paddling too.
Positives
- Nice blue or pink design to select between depending on your child’s preference.
- Stable and balanced design makes the board easier to use.
- Holds up to 330 lbs so your child can really grow into the board and use it well into adulthood.
- Non-slip floor mats for added grip on the soles of the feet.
Negatives
- Another option with some issues reported on the pump. You might want to consider buying a back-up pump in advance of any trips just in case.
Review Criteria
As with our other buyers guides, we used a selection of key review criteria to all of the kids paddle boards that we considered for the list. This helps us to more objectively and accurately gauge each boards performance. We all have our preferred brands and features, so this consistency can help us offer you a better and more objective review list.
We looked primarily at the below criteria to measure the effectiveness and suitability of each board.
Size
When looking for a children’s paddle board, size will always come in to play. If the board is too big, they will struggle to carry and control it. If it is too small, and they will only be able to use it for a short amount of time before outgrowing it. Plus, small boards can also be harder to find your balance on and aren’t always as buoyant so aren’t as suitable for beginners.
Materials
You want your kids SUP board to be strong and durable. Understandably beginners won’t be able to control the board as well which can increase the risk of bumps and knocks. You need their boards material to be strong, durable and adaptable.
Price
Paddle boards can be expensive and kids grow fast! So, you don’t want to spend an absolute fortune when you know they might outgrow the board (or even the hobby) within a few short years. We know budget will always be a concern, but when it comes to something that could impact your kids health and safety, going for the cheapest option is never the best option. We only included boards here that we feel met our quality standards whilst offering good value for money.
Features
Finally, we took into account any additional features offered by the boards that might make them more suitable for you and your kids. Things like the board rails, any non-slip surfaces, accessories included and design options. All of these add to the boards basics and make them more or less appealing depending on what you and your children are looking for!
How to Select the Best Paddle Board for Kids
All of the inflatable paddleboards included in the list above are some of our top contenders for junior paddlers. They will allow you and your child to have an enjoyable day out on the water. There is still the chance that you have your eye on another board for your kid (maybe a friend recommended it or you’ve spotted a great deal on a board not listed above). So, we wanted to offer some advice on how to decide on if the board that you are looking at is good for a young paddle boarder. Look for the below things when deciding whether to buy or not.
Stability
When looking at the best paddleboard for kids, the balance and stability offered by the board should be top of your list. How stable the board is will determine how easy to use and safe it is for beginners using it. If your son or daughter is more experienced (even an advanced paddler), stability will be less of an issue as they should be able to find their feet on any board. Having said that, the large majority of kids will be relatively inexperienced. Go with a wider board as these tend to be more stable (for most kids, you will want a board 2″ wide or larger).
Weight
The weight of the board is important because it determines how easy it is for a kid to lift and move as well as how stable it is in the water. A heavier board can support more weight but younger children will struggle to lift them and won’t be able to manoeuvre as easily out on the lake, river or pool. A lighter board is a lot more transportable but it will struggle when it comes to rougher waters. A strong current could quickly set an inexperienced paddler of course and result in accidents or cause them to capsize. Look for a good balance between weight and manoeuvrability. Keep in mind your child’s strength as well when making your decision.
Fins
For adults, more customizable fins are often better. When it comes to junior paddlers however, snap-lock fins are a much better option. Still these can fall off whilst they are out on the water so more permanent fins are that much better (even if they don’t allow for the best tracking and precision). Furthermore, more personalizable fins (like US fin boxes) require accurate installation and require you to work with small screws and plates. Fins can be a pain to attach even for the most patient of adults. When you are constructing your board for an excitable kid, the last thing you want to be doing is messing around with an attachable fin.
Deck
The deckpad on a paddle board can focus on grip, minimizing skin irritation and/or being comfortable. Whilst with adult boards more grip is often better, with kids we want to priotize comfort. A comfortable deck that offers enough grip will allow your kids to practise for hours on end and get the maximum amount of enjoyment out of their board.
Design
The look of a paddleboard won’t be quite as important for adults as it is for kids. Kids want something that will look cool and that they can show off to their friends. As such, kid’s SUP boards should be visually appealing and fun. The designs above are guaranteed to have your kids jumping for joy when they see them!
Specialist Kids Board or Adult/Kid Hybrid Board?
In your board research, you will quickly find a range of both kids and adult boards and it can be tricky to decide which one to go for. If you are buying the board for some one really young (between 6 years old and 10 years old), you should go with the kids paddleboard. They will be lighter and built specifically with such ages in mind (making it easier for them to find their balance out on the water). Once your kids start reaching the teenage years though (13 onwards), especially if they are taller and stronger, you should really be looking at light weight adult options. This way you won’t need to replace the board in a couple of years. Children between the ages of 10 and 13 sit somewhere in the middle. You want a board light enough for them to handle but not so basic that they will need it replaced a year from now.
Positives of a Kids Board
- Less expensive option which is good considering you’ll likely have to replace the board in a few years time once they outgrow it.
- Easier to control and turn on (good for beginner paddlers).
- Lighter so they can get the board in and out of the water.
- Softer decks/deckpads to minimize the risk of injury.
- Less D-rings keeps things simple and can prevent your kids getting the board caught up/stuck on things.
- Appealing designs which they will love to show off to friends.
Positives of Adult/Kid Hybrid Boards
- Kids are able to grow into the board as they get bigger, stronger, taller and older.
- Can be used by the whole family – brothers, sisters, kids and parents.
- Are likely to have overall better performance when it comes to things like balance/stability, weight capacity, tracking and turning.
- Can be heavily customized as their paddling skills progress.
- Stronger materials means they are generally longer lasting.
- More options to attach accessories to the board.
Junior Paddle Boarders Safety Tips
We know as a parent that you will want to keep your kids as safe as possible whilst they are out on the water. Make sure your kids follow the below tips to minimize the risk of injuries and accidents:
- Always wear the board leash. These will help them find the board should they ever fall in (especially important for less strong swimmers).
- Always wear a fitted Personal Floatation Device (PFD). These will help keep them safe if they fall in the water (especially important in stronger currents).
- Use protective products for the weather! Make sure you send your kids out with all they could need to protect them from harsher weather. For example, put together a kit with an umbrella, waterproof coat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or visor).
- Keep them supervized until they are ready to go out on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a junior paddle board worth it?
This will always depend on who you are buying for to some extent. Bigger, stronger and older kids will benefit more from adult/kid hybrid boards than a younger paddler. Still, the best paddle boards for kids will be designed specifically with younger explorers in mind. Everything from their materials to the accessories included work to deliver a more enjoyable, comfortable and safe paddling experience.
How old is too old for a kids paddle board?
A good rule of thumb is to only buy a kids board for those 13 years old or younger. Any older than this, and they will likely get much more use out of a light-weight adult board. Depending on their strength and size, you might even consider buying a hybrid one for those between the ages of 10 and 13.
Sources
Airhead, Stand Up Paddleboarding Safety Precautions, Accessed on 23rd December 2020.
ABC News, How to Safely Enjoy Paddleboarding This Summer, Accessed on 23rd December 2020.
Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Stand-up Paddleboarding, Accessed on 23rd December 2020.
Seattle.gov, It’s Paddle Safe Week – Stay Safe and Well on The Water, Accessed on 23rd December 2020.
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