Distance paddling on a stand-up paddleboard is an awesome way to explore. I love the feeling of gliding across calm water, seeing the shoreline slowly change, and getting a great workout. But not all SUPs are created equal when it comes to touring. You need something stable, efficient, and comfortable for those longer paddles. So, I’ve put together a list of the best touring SUPs to help you find the perfect board for your adventures.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks:
- iRocker Nautical 11’6″: Best budget-friendly option.
- Blackfin Model X: Best for stability and durability.
- Red Paddle Co Voyager+ 13’2″: Best high-end inflatable for serious tours.
- Atoll 11′ Touring SUP: Great all-around performance and value.
- BOTE Rackham Aero 12’4″: Best for fishing and bringing gear.
Top 5 Best Touring SUP Boards
1. iRocker Nautical 11’6″
The iRocker Nautical 11’6″ is an excellent choice for paddlers looking for an affordable touring board without sacrificing quality. It’s stable enough for beginners and efficient enough for longer paddles. This board is a great way to get into touring without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- ✅ Very budget-friendly.
- ✅ Good stability for beginners.
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as fast as higher-end boards.
- ❌ Basic paddle included.
- ❌ Limited features compared to premium models.
Verdict: A fantastic entry-level touring SUP that offers great value for the price. Perfect for recreational paddlers and beginners.
2. Blackfin Model X
The Blackfin Model X is designed for paddlers who prioritize stability and durability. It’s built with reinforced PVC, making it incredibly tough and resistant to damage. I’ve seen people run these over with cars (don’t try that!) and they still hold up, which is crazy. If you need a board that can handle rough conditions and heavy use, this is it.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely stable and durable construction.
- ✅ Plenty of D-rings and attachment points for gear.
- ✅ Comfortable deck pad.
Cons:
- ❌ Heavier than other inflatable SUPs.
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ Can be a bit slower than narrower touring boards.
Verdict: An excellent choice for paddlers who need a super stable and durable board for all types of conditions. Great for fishing, yoga, and carrying extra gear.
3. Red Paddle Co Voyager+ 13’2″
The Red Paddle Co Voyager+ 13’2″ is a premium inflatable touring SUP designed for serious paddlers. It’s known for its exceptional build quality, stiffness, and performance. If you are going for longer expeditions then this should be considered.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior build quality and stiffness.
- ✅ Excellent tracking and glide.
- ✅ Includes a high-quality wheeled backpack.
Cons:
- ❌ Very expensive.
- ❌ Can be bulky to store and transport.
Verdict: A top-of-the-line inflatable touring SUP for experienced paddlers who demand the best performance and quality. If you are serious about touring, this is a great board to invest in.
4. Atoll 11′ Touring SUP
The Atoll 11′ Touring SUP strikes a great balance between performance, stability, and value. It’s designed with a sleek shape that cuts through the water efficiently, making it a joy to paddle on longer tours. The Atoll is known for its quality construction and thoughtful design.
Pros:
- ✅ Good balance of speed and stability.
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to handle.
- ✅ Includes a quality paddle and accessories.
Cons:
- ❌ Deck pad could be more comfortable for long tours.
- ❌ Not as durable as the Blackfin Model X.
Verdict: A solid all-around touring SUP that offers great performance and value. Perfect for intermediate paddlers looking to upgrade their gear.
5. BOTE Rackham Aero 12’4″
The BOTE Rackham Aero 12’4″ is designed for paddlers who want to bring extra gear, especially for fishing. Its wide and stable platform makes it easy to stand and cast, while the numerous attachment points allow you to customize your setup with rod holders, coolers, and other accessories. I’ve seen people load these up with everything but the kitchen sink!
Pros:
- ✅ Super stable and spacious deck.
- ✅ Customizable with BOTE’s accessory system.
- ✅ Great for fishing and carrying gear.
Cons:
- ❌ Slower than other touring SUPs due to its width.
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Can be challenging to paddle in windy conditions.
Verdict: An excellent choice for paddlers who need a stable and customizable platform for fishing, recreation, or carrying extra gear. If you want to bring a lot of stuff with you, this is your board.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right touring SUP can make or break your paddling experience. Here are a few things to consider:
- Length: Longer boards (11’6″ to 14′) are generally faster and more efficient for touring. They track better and glide more smoothly through the water.
- Width: Wider boards (32″ or more) offer greater stability, which is important if you’re carrying gear or paddling in choppy conditions. However, they can be slower and less efficient than narrower boards.
- Construction: Inflatable SUPs are convenient for storage and transport, but solid boards generally offer better performance. Look for inflatable boards with high-quality construction and reinforced materials.
- Volume: The volume of the board determines how much weight it can support. Make sure to choose a board with enough volume to accommodate your weight and any gear you plan to carry.
- Features: Consider features like D-rings for attaching gear, comfortable deck pads, and high-quality fins. These can make a big difference in your overall paddling experience.
- Budget: Touring SUPs range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Determine your budget and look for a board that offers the best value for your money.
FAQs
What is the ideal length for a touring SUP?
Generally, touring SUPs range from 11’6″ to 14′. Longer boards tend to be faster and more efficient for covering distances.
Are inflatable SUPs good for touring?
Yes, high-quality inflatable SUPs can be excellent for touring. Look for models with stiff construction and good tracking.
How important is stability for a touring SUP?
Stability is crucial, especially if you’re carrying gear or paddling in varied conditions. Choose a board with enough width and volume to feel comfortable and secure.
What accessories should I consider for touring?
A good paddle, a comfortable leash, a dry bag for your belongings, and a PFD (personal flotation device) are essential. You might also want to consider a SUP cart for transporting your board, and a repair kit.
Can I use a regular SUP for touring?
While you *can*, a dedicated touring SUP will be more efficient and comfortable for longer distances. Touring boards are designed for speed, tracking, and stability, making them a better choice for serious paddling.
Conclusion
Finding the best touring SUP depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize budget, stability, performance, or gear-carrying capacity, there’s a board out there that’s perfect for you. I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the ideal SUP for your next paddling adventure. Get out there and explore!
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