September 04, 2024 8 min read

Table of Contents

Introduction

When you're eager to catch some waves, choosing the right stand-up paddleboard (SUP) can make all the difference. The best SUPs for surfing seamlessly blend stability, maneuverability, and durability to deliver an exciting and efficient ride. Today, we will review some top-notch SUP boards built specifically for surfing, helping you find the perfect fit for your wave-riding adventures.

Understanding Your Surf SUP

Before diving into the reviews, it's important to understand the features that make a SUP board great for surfing. A shorter length allows for more control, while a decent width and a well-designed rocker line (the board's bottom curve) ensure good stability and wave performance. The tail design also impacts how the board handles a wave. Let's explore the top choices available on the market.

Catching the Wave: The Joy of SUP Board Surfing

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has seen a meteoric rise in popularity over the past few years, with SUP surfing standing out as one of the most thrilling iterations of this versatile sport. A unique blend of traditional surfing and paddleboarding, SUP surfing offers an exhilarating way to enjoy the water, engage with nature, and even sneak in a killer workout.

The Allure of SUP Surfing

In traditional surfing, the ride begins once you've caught a wave, but with SUP surfing, the adventure starts the moment you step on the board. Positioned upright, you have a commanding view of your surroundings, making it easier to spot incoming waves and offering a unique perspective on the underwater world below.

But SUP surfing isn't just a feast for the eyes. It's a dynamic, full-body workout that strengthens your core, enhances your balance, and works your muscles from your shoulders down to your calves. The mix of strength, balance, and endurance needed to stay upright on a moving SUP board adds up to a fun, challenging workout.

Choosing Your Wave Runner

As with any sport, having the right equipment is crucial. For SUP surfing, the choice of board can make all the difference. Surf-specific SUPs are generally shorter with a narrow nose and tail for better maneuverability on waves, but they also maintain a good width for stability.

Mastering the Surf

Mastering SUP surfing is about balancing three key components: your board, your paddle, and the wave. Your feet should be positioned hip-width apart in the center of the board. Remember to keep your knees slightly bent and your body upright. The paddle not only propels you forward but also acts as a balancing aid, helping you steer and stabilize.

When it comes to catching a wave, timing is everything. You'll want to start paddling as the wave approaches, matching its speed. The key is to gain enough momentum without exhausting yourself before the wave breaks. Once you're on the wave, it's all about using your paddle for direction and your body for balance.

Riding the Crest of Popularity

As more people fall in love with SUP surfing, it's clear this exciting sport is more than just a passing trend. It's a novel way to interact with the water, offering both a physical challenge and a serene escape. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a newcomer to water sports, SUP surfing offers a unique way to ride the waves. So why not grab a paddle, hop on a board, and see where the tide takes you? The ocean is calling, and an SUP surfing adventure awaits!

Top Surf SUP Board Reviews

Each SUP board we've chosen stands out for its design, build quality, performance, and value for money. Let's surf through the details:

GILI Meno 10'6

GILI Meno 10'6 is an incredibly versatile inflatable board, but it excels when ridden on waves. Its design strikes an impressive balance between stability and maneuverability, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers.

GILI Meno

Features & Specs:

  • Length: 10'6"
  • Width: 35"
  • Weight: 23 lbs
  • Material: Dual-layer PVC with fused technology
  • Includes: Travel paddle, leash, fin, and pump

Pros

  • Excellent stability and control on waves
  • Robust construction ensures longevity
  • Comes with useful accessories

Cons

  • May be challenging for beginners

iRocker All-Around 11'

iRocker All-Around 11' is another stellar inflatable SUP that delivers a superb surfing experience. The 32" wide deck offers good balance, and the overall design provides a good blend of stability and responsiveness.

Features and Specifications

  • Length: 11'
  • Width: 32"
  • Weight: 26 lbs
  • Material: Triple-layer composite PVC
  • Includes: Adjustable paddle, backpack, pump, leash, and repair kit

Pros

  • Provides a smooth and responsive ride
  • Exceptional build quality
  • Comes as a complete kit

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than other boards

Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8”

The Cruise Carbon from Bluefin is a versatile board with a sporty design that's perfect for SUP surfing. Its size and shape offer excellent stability and agility, and the integrated GoPro mount means you can capture your surfing adventures in stunning detail.

Features

  • Size: 10'8" in length, 82cm in width, 16cm thickness
  • Weight limit: Up to 150 kg
  • Material: 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate PVC & Pro-Weave Drop Stitch
  • Fins: Removable Smart Lock fin system
  • Accessories: Fiberglass paddle, double-action pump, backpack, leash, waterproof phone case

Pros

  • Carbon-reinforced rails offer enhanced stiffness and strength, giving you more control while surfing
  • A unique kickpad at the tail allows for sharp turns and improved maneuverability
  • Includes a 5-year warranty, providing value for money

Cons

  • Despite being an all-around board, it may not offer the same performance as a specialized surf SUP in larger waves
  • On the higher end of the price spectrum

ISLE Pioneer Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board

The ISLE Pioneer inflatable SUP is a reliable board for SUP surfing. Its wide nose and tail provide excellent stability while the three-fin setup helps with maneuverability on the waves.

Features

  • Size: 10'6" length, 34" width, 6" thickness
  • Weight limit: Up to 285 lbs
  • Material: Military-grade PVC
  • Fins: Removable three-fin setup
  • Accessories: Adjustable travel paddle, backpack, high-pressure pump, leash, and fins

Pros

  • Military-grade PVC construction ensures durability and rigidity, which is crucial for SUP surfing
  • The wider design provides excellent stability, helping beginners feel more comfortable on waves
  • Comes with all necessary accessories and a 60-day guarantee, providing great value

Cons

  • Despite being versatile, it may not provide the same performance as a specialized surf SUP in challenging surf conditions
  • Given its dimensions, more experienced riders may find it less maneuverable than they'd like

Red Paddle Co 10'6" Ride MSL

The 10'6" Ride MSL from Red Paddle Co is another excellent choice for SUP surfing. Known for their high-quality inflatable paddle boards, Red Paddle Co offers a stable and responsive board that handles well on the waves.

Features

  • Size: 10'6" length, 32" width, 4.7" thickness
  • Weight limit: Up to 220 lbs
  • Material: MSL fusion composite and airtight coating
  • Fins: Tri-fin system with removable central fin
  • Accessories: Adjustable paddle, Titan II pump, all-terrain backpack, repair kit, and water-resistant phone case

Pros

  • MSL fusion composite and airtight coating ensure the board is lightweight yet durable, ideal for surfing conditions
  • The tri-fin setup provides excellent control and maneuverability on the waves
  • The board's thickness and streamlined design contribute to its speed and responsiveness in surf

Cons

  • With a slightly lower weight limit, this may not be the best choice for larger riders
  • It's on the pricier side, which may not suit all budgets

The Red Paddle Co 10'6" Ride MSL is a fine addition to your water sports arsenal, promising a great surfing experience. As with all Red Paddle Co products, you're getting a robust and well-crafted board that's designed to perform. Surfing enthusiasts looking for a reliable and agile SUP board will find a lot to love in the 10'6" Ride MSL. Whether you're catching small waves or exploring calmer waters, this board is a companion you can count on. 

Conclusion

Whether you're an experienced wave rider or just starting your surfing journey, finding the right SUP can elevate your experience. Both the GILI Meno 10'6 and iRocker All-Around 11' have proven their mettle in the surf, offering superior design, build quality, and performance. So why wait? Dive in, explore these boards, and find your perfect wave companion!

GILI Sports: Your One-Stop Shop for SUP Adventures

GILI Sports is a leading player in the water sports market, celebrated for their top-tier stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) and related accessories. With a vision to deliver high-performance, durable, and user-friendly products, they cater to a diverse audience, from novices taking their first paddle strokes to seasoned paddlers carving up waves.

Their extensive lineup comprises both inflatable and hard SUPs, specifically tailored to suit various activities and skill levels. Whether you're into relaxed paddling sessions, challenging SUP yoga, or thrilling SUP surfing, GILI Sports has you covered. Notable products include the agile 10'6 Komodo and the versatile 11'6 Meno, which are excellent choices for surfers of all levels.

Besides SUPs, portsGILI S also offers a comprehensive range of quality water-sports accessories, from robust paddles and safety leashes to convenient SUP bags and efficient electric pumps. These accessories not only enhance your paddling experience but also ensure you have all you need for an exciting, safe, and memorable adventure on the water.

GILI Sports isn't just about selling products; they're dedicated to building a knowledgeable and passionate paddleboarding community. Their blog is a treasure trove of information for anyone intrigued by the sport. Featuring a regular influx of how-to guides, product reviews, location guides, and articles covering various aspects of paddleboarding, it's a platform designed to help customers make informed decisions, improve their paddleboarding skills, and discover new locations to explore.

GILI Sports is your trusted partner in your paddleboarding journey, committed to helping you get the most out of your time on the water. Whether you're buying your first board, looking to upgrade, or seeking expert advice, GILI Sports is there to guide and support you every step of the way.

FAQs

🏆 What is the best size of SUP for surfing?

The ideal SUP size for surfing largely depends on your experience and the wave conditions. Generally, a smaller board (around 10') offers greater maneuverability on waves but may require more skill to balance.


👍 How does board shape affect surfing performance?

The shape of the board greatly influences its surfing performance. A narrower nose and tail can make the board more maneuverable, while wider boards offer better stability.


🏝️ Is an inflatable SUP good for surfing?

Inflatable SUPs like the GILI Meno 10'6 and iRocker All-Around 11' can be excellent for surfing. They offer good balance and are easier to transport and store than hardboards.


❓ What are some maintenance tips for surf SUPs?

To maintain your surf SUP, rinse it with fresh water after each use, avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, and ensure it's dry before storing. Regularly check for any damages or required repairs.


📦 Can beginners use surf SUPs?

Yes, beginners can use surf SUPs, but they should start with wider, more stable boards and small, gentle waves. As they build their skills, they can progress to more advanced boards and bigger waves.

Jay Regan
Jay Regan

Chief Paddler - Jay has been surfing and paddling for over 5 years. When he's not dreaming up new stuff at GILI, he's writing articles about paddling, out paddling, or often traveling.


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