Can an inflatable paddle board be used for surfing?

While inflatable paddle boards (iSUPs) might be known for their versatility in calm waters, they’ve also made a splash in the surfing world. Being portable, durable and responsive, today’s inflatable paddleboards offer a capable and enjoyable surfing experience.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the key considerations when choosing an inflatable surf SUP, explore the essential gear you’ll need for a successful session, and provide valuable tips and techniques to help you navigate the lineup and ride waves with confidence.

Not all paddle boards are created equal, especially when it comes to surfing. Several key factors influence how well an iSUP performs on the waves:

The dimensions of your inflatable SUP are a factor in its surfing capabilities. Generally, shorter and narrower boards allow for quicker turns and sharper adjustments when riding waves. Longer and wider boards provide more stability but may feel less responsive when turning.

The thickness (depth) of your inflatable stand-up paddleboard affects its volume and buoyancy. A board around 4-5 inches deep should provide a good balance of stability and responsiveness, allowing you to dig the rails of the board into the water for better control.

The tail shape influences how your iSUP releases from the wave. A narrower tail allows for sharper turns and better control, while a wider tail is more forgiving and boosts stability – a useful factor for beginners and those getting used to manoeuvring on the waves.

Rocker refers to the upward curve of the nose and tail, and curve along the board’s underside. A pronounced rocker provides better clearance when paddling out through waves and allows the board to “lift” over whitewater, preventing nosedives.

The volume of an inflatable paddleboard refers to its overall displacement. A higher volume board (one that is thicker, longer, and/or wider) offers more buoyancy and stability, which can be beneficial for beginners.

Finding the right balance between rocker and volume is key for optimal surfing performance. Surf SUPs often have a moderate rocker to ensure enough lift for paddling out and catching waves, while maintaining good manoeuvrability. The volume is typically on the lower end to enhance agility and responsiveness.

The fin setup impacts how your iSUP tracks and turns. A tri-fin (thruster) setup is a popular choice for surfing. It consists of three fins: a larger centre fin and two smaller side fins. This provides a good balance of stability, drive, and manoeuvrability.

Selecting the right inflatable SUP for surfing depends on your skill level and the wave conditions you’ll be riding (or wish to ride).

If you’re new to SUP surfing, you may want to focus a little more on the board’s ease of use.

To that end, the relatively compact template of an all-round SUP is a good starting point. It will move well in the water without compromising too much on performance. However, it won’t be quite as nimble as some smaller options.

Two Bare Feet’s 10’6″ Sport Air Allround is an excellent choice for those surfers finding their feet in the waves. As a high-performance all-round board, it’s designed to offer a balanced combination of stability, control, and manoeuvrability. Able to handle a variety of conditions, it’s a versatile choice for those looking to explore multidiscipline paddleboarding.

For riders within the recommended weight range, the 4.75″ deck depth provides a stable platform and low centre of gravity, making it easier to catch waves.

The drop-stitch construction of the Sport Air 10’6” allows it to be inflated to high pressures, giving it the rigidity and sturdiness to withstand the rigors of surfing, while providing a convenient, portable, and stable platform for those developing their skills.

Our 10’6” iSUP also comes equipped with a thruster fin setup – exactly what you need to enhance tracking and manoeuvrability, allowing surfers to navigate waves with ease.

Smaller, more agile boards allow you to tackle steeper waves and perform more advanced manoeuvres.

While designed as an all-rounder for smaller riders, Two Bare Feet’s Entradia (Allround XS) 8’6″ inflatable SUP is an excellent option for advanced SUP surfers (under the max payload of 80kg) looking for a small and nimble inflatable paddleboard for use in surf conditions.

This board’s compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it exceptionally agile and responsive, allowing experienced riders to execute moves with precision and ease, while enabling riders to tackle steeper waves.

Like our other inflatable SUPs, the 8’6″ Entradia Allround XS is constructed with high-quality drop-stitch technology. This allows the board to be inflated to high pressures which, combined with the use of PVC laminate strips on the top and bottom, results in an extremely stiff build, providing the rigidity needed to perform in various surf conditions.

Our 8’6” board also utilises a versatile thruster fin setup to optimise tracking and control, while providing the necessary stability without compromising the board’s agility. The lightweight nature of the board, combined with a practical carry handle and compact deflated size, also makes it easy to transport and store.

In addition to your inflatable paddleboard, you’ll need some reliable equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.

A light and stiff SUP paddle is ideal for surfing; it reduces fatigue, and allows for quicker, more responsive movements. Having the paddle shaft a bit shorter than it would be for other types of paddling will also allow for quicker strokes and easier transitions on waves.

A lightweight, adjustable SUP paddle will allow you to customise the shaft length to your preference. Two Bare Feet offers a range of adjustable SUP paddles designed to cater to all skill levels, making them perfect for SUP surfing.

• aluminium paddles are durable and budget-friendly,
• fibreglass paddles provide a good balance of weight and flexibility,
• carbon fibre paddles are incredibly lightweight and stiff, offering the best performance for serious surfers.

All our SUP paddles feature ergonomic handles and comfortable grips, ensuring that you can paddle for extended periods without discomfort.

In addition, the blades are designed to offer optimal water catch and propulsion, aiding in efficient paddling whether you’re navigating waves or cruising on flat water.

Carbon hybrid vs Carbon Pro

Our carbon fibre SUP paddles come in two differing compositions, each with their own benefits.

For those seeking an affordable lightweight option that doesn’t compromise on strength, the Carbon Hybrid SUP paddle is an excellent choice. It features a polypropylene plastic blade combined with a 100% carbon fibre shaft.

The hybrid construction offers a perfect balance between weight and durability, making it much lighter than traditional aluminium paddles while still being robust enough for regular use.

For paddlers who demand the highest performance and the lightest weight, the Carbon Pro SUP paddle stands out as the premium option. This paddle is constructed entirely from 100% carbon fibre, both the blade and the shaft, making it exceptionally lightweight and highly efficient.

The reduced weight of the Carbon Pro paddle minimizes effort and fatigue, which is particularly beneficial for periods of extended exertion. Its design ensures optimal performance with every stroke, providing the responsiveness and control needed for advanced manoeuvrers in the surf.

Depending on the water temperature, you might need a wetsuit. The type of wetsuit you choose will depend on the water temperature and your personal preferences.

Two Bare Feet offers a wetsuit range designed for different conditions, ensuring you stay comfortable and protected from the elements. Our wetsuits are specifically tailored to provide warmth and flexibility, making them ideal for SUP surfing in varying conditions.

For warmer temperatures, our 2.5mm or 3/2mm full-length and shorty summer wetsuit options offer a balance between warmth and freedom of movement, ensuring that paddling and surfing manoeuvres are not impeded.

If you choose to enter the waters in spring or autumn, our thicker 4/3 wetsuits provide the additional insulation you’ll want without significantly reducing movement, thanks to the soft, flexible and stretchy neoprene composition.

Our wetsuits are designed with flatlock seams to minimise water ingress and chafing, as well as neck and wrist seals to prevent water flushing. The easy-entry back zippers and secure Velcro closures make putting on and taking off the wetsuits a breeze, even when wet.

A surf leash is a must-have safety accessory for SUP surfing. It keeps your board attached to you in case of a fall, preventing it from becoming a hazard to others and making it easier to retrieve.

The broad consensus for SUP surfing is a straight leash (to help avoid the board from springing back towards you if you wipeout). It should be attached with an ankle cuff for easier movement on the board, and be almost as long as the SUP, to reduce the likelihood of a collision if you are dismounted.

Be sure to use a leash intended for surfing, as opposed to a coiled SUP leash, as the leash needs to be able to withstand the forces exerted by the board and the waves.

If you do hit the waves on our 8’6” SUP, one of our 8ft deluxe surf leashes is the perfect safety solution. Made from high-quality, durable materials, the robust cord is strong enough to handle powerful waves and sudden tugs, ensuring your board stays attached even in challenging conditions.

Our surf leash features a comfortable ankle cuff with secure Velcro straps, allowing for easy attachment and adjustment. The padded cuff provides a snug yet comfortable fit, ensuring that it stays in place during your surf sessions while minimizing irritation and chafing.

In addition, the swivel connectors at both ends of the leash help to prevent tangling, ensuring that you have full freedom of movement on your board without the leash getting in the way.

Once you’ve got the right equipment, it’s time to hit the waves! Here are some essential tips and techniques to help you get started with surfing on your inflatable paddleboard:

• Paddle position: Maintain a strong and stable paddling position with your body centred on the board and your paddle blade fully submerged.
• Paddle stroke: Focus on powerful and efficient strokes, ensuring you’re generating enough momentum to catch waves.
• Rhythm: Find a consistent paddling rhythm to build up speed and maintain control.

• Timing: Anticipate the wave’s approach and start popping up as the wave lifts your board.
• Foot placement: Place your front foot slightly forward of your centre of gravity and your back foot further back for balance and control.
• Weight distribution: Shift your weight forward to initiate the turn and backward to maintain stability.

• Rail-to-rail transitions: Lean into the turns, engaging the rails of your board to carve through the wave.
• Cross-stepping: For more advanced manoeuvres, practice cross-stepping to shift your weight and change direction.
• Exiting waves: To get out of waves, either kick your board hard up and out, ride the wave until it loses momentum or jump off.

For an in-depth analysis of SUP surfing technique, our detailed guide on how to SUP surf is an excellent starting point for anyone new or returning to the sport.

Staying safe should always be a top priority when surfing, especially on an inflatable paddleboard. Here are some important considerations:

• Wave size: Start with smaller, less powerful waves to build your confidence and skills.
• Crowds: Avoid crowded surf breaks, especially when you’re first starting out.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and avoid surfing in strong winds or adverse conditions.

• Respect the lineup: Familiarise yourself with surf etiquette and respect the rights of other surfers.
• Paddling outside: Paddle outside the breaking waves to avoid interfering with surfers.
• Calling waves: If you’re unsure about a wave, call it to avoid conflicts with other surfers.

• Relax: If you fall off your board, stay calm and focus on getting back to the surface.
• Board control: Keep an eye on your board, and stay attached with a suitable leash to prevent it from drifting away or obstructing other water users.
• Currents: Be aware of rip currents and other hazards, and know how to escape them if necessary.

Surfing on an inflatable paddle board is an exhilarating way to experience the ocean. With the right board, gear, and techniques, you can catch waves and enjoy the thrill of riding them.

In addition to our range of inflatable paddle boards and wetsuits, we also offer a variety of SUP accessories and accessory packages designed to enhance your surfing experience – from waterproof carry bags to SUP pumps.

In addition, we sell a selection of wetsuit accessories to provide added protection in challenging conditions, including neoprene gloves, rash vests, and wetsuit hoods. And when you leave the water, don’t forget our changing robes that keep you warm and help you dry off.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get you out on the water and riding those waves!