Summer can be a great time to let your children experience more freedom while still being under the protective eye of mom and dad. One great way to build confidence is to get your child their own stand up paddleboard (aka SUP) – one made specifically for kids.
Summer can be a great time to let your children experience more freedom while still being under the protective eye of mom and dad. One great way to build confidence is to get your child their own stand up paddleboard (aka SUP) – one made specifically for kids.
The following SUP’s are build for children. They are easier for kids to control, and most are more forgiving on the water. Think of the fun the family will have out on the lake paddling together under the warm summer sun!
Best SUPS For Kids
 | Airhead Popsicle 730 ISUP | Check price at |
 | Pathfinder Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard | Check price at |
 | BIC Sport DURA-TEC Original SUP | Check price at |
 | Sun Dolphin Seaquest 10 Stand Up Paddle Board | Check price at |
Airhead Popsicle 730 ISUP
The colorful paddling board that looks like a popsicle is designed for smaller, beginner paddlers. Young and petite kids should easily grip the molded handle to carry this lightweight board. The full round shape slows down the board so that it won’t go to fast for novices who are still unsure of their paddling abilities. Parents can always tow them with the stainless-steel tow ring at the front for a faster ride.
Seven feet is long enough to turn in the water without adding extra length for beginners to navigate. Inflatable SUPs sometimes feel not as stable as a solid board. The 6” thickness of the Airhead Popsicle gives a solid feeding and stability a novice rider would appreciate.
The deck surface is covered with EVA traction padding with a kick tail at the rear to prevent slipping from the board. A rocker at the front and rear assist in smooth handling of the SUP board. Four fixed durable fins improve traction and won’t break as quickly as loose fins.
Included in the package is a mesh backpack to allow quick drying, a pressure manual pump, pressure gauge, valve wrench, inflatable repair kit, and stainless-steel tow ring, board strap.
Weight:
19 lbs.
Dimensions:
7’x30x6”
Material:
Inflatable thick EVA traction pad using drop-stitch construction with X-cross technology
Weight Limit for Rider:
30-120 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
D-ring at the rear of the board to attach a leash
Paddle Included?
No paddle
Fins:
Four fixed thruster fins (2 x 3”, 2 x 4 ¾”)
Pathfinder Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
The Pathfinder is a great choice for both the newbie and expert youth paddler in your house.
The 5” thick paddling board rides high in the water; novices should feel safer riding high. It’s easy to assemble the adjustable paddle to the desired length for the child.
When inflated to 15 PSI, the board feels sturdy beneath your feet like a solid board. If the board isn’t inflated correctly, it may not feel as sturdy.
Package includes the adjustable aluminum paddle, single action pump, detachable center fin, carry bag with shoulder straps, and valve wrench.
Weight:
20 lbs.
Dimensions:
9’9”x30x5.”
Material:
Inflatable PVC with strong multi-layer drop-stitch
Weight Limit for Rider:
240 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
D-ring for attaching a leash but no leash included
Paddle Included?
Adjustable aluminum paddle included
Fins:
Detachable center fins
BIC Sport DURA-TEC Original SUP
The rugged Dura-Tec construction makes this BIC SUP board one of the most durable boards available. The kayak-like HDPE shell with polyurethane foam core found in surfboards gives a true board-sport feel and performance.
Highly durable, the kid’s sized board comes in the bright BIC orange color. Embossed EVA deck pad ensures excellent grip. The width is broad enough for novices to learn how to balance on the board.
It has a pre-curved ergo-grip handle for kids to transport the paddling board comfortably. The paddling board fits nicely under an adult’s arm.
Weight:
21lbs.
Dimensions:
8’4”x23.25×3.1.”
Material:
Solid polyethylene shell and highly-dense foam core
Weight Limit for Rider:
80 lbs. (9’4” board weight limit is 135 lbs.)
Does it come with a leash?
No Leash
Paddle Included?
No, the paddle is not included
Fins:
Two fixed fins and one removable center fin
Sun Dolphin Seaquest 10’ Stand Up Paddle Board
Sun Dolphin
Excellent tracking, nonslip footpads, and a board-width that helps with balance make the Sun Dolphin Seaquest, a smooth and stable ride for teenagers. Maneuvers well and is easy to get on and off. The cross section is broader than most, representing a kayak. Although it requires more paddling strength, it’s wide enough that it’s practically impossible to fall off.
The recessed cooler storage area at the back of the board is ideal for keeping a cold beverage. The bungee storage area will hold objects that need to stay dry like a mobile or keys. Additional luggage weight has no noticeable effect on the extreme stability of the board.
Five carry handle locations make it easy to transport the paddling board despite the extra weight. It is almost indestructible compared to fiberglass boards.
Weight:
50 lbs.
Dimensions:
10’x33x10”
Material:
Solid
Weight Limit for Rider:
230 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
No Leash
Paddle Included?
Adjustable paddle included
Fins:
A detached fin that screws on
True Wave 8′ Youth SUP
The True Wave padding board is ideal for young and petite kids who want to learn paddle boarding. Soft constructed deck with textured grip avoid slipping off the deck of the paddling board. In the middle of the board is a molded, mid grip handle to hold onto. The handle and non-slipping surface will give beginner paddler confidence to focus on learning the techniques and having fun without being fearful of losing their grip and falling into the water.
Kids can carry their board using the molded grip. The lightweight eases the learning experience in maneuvering the board in the water.
Weight:
12 lbs.
Dimensions:
9’
Material:
Solid HDPE bottom skin and EPS core with three marine-ply stringers
Weight Limit for Rider:
100 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
Molded leash plug and removable ankle leash
Paddle Included?
Adjustable paddle included
Fins:
One removable fin included
What Else Will My Kid Need To Start Paddle Boarding?
- A personal floating device (PFD) may be optional for adults but not for kids, even if they are good swimmers
- Depending on the water temperature, a wetsuit
- Water boots help with board grip and avoid feet numbing from cold
- Polarized sunglasses with neck rope and sunscreen to protect against the sun
- An ankle leash keeps the board nearby if the kid falls off. The board becomes a floating device for the kid to hold onto or to climb back on board.
How Old Should My Child Be
If a kid can swim, he can paddle sitting down with a parent on a nearby board. Most kids who swim are ready by 7-8 years old, but each kid is different. Parents should decide if their child is ready considering their strength, motor skills, ability to follow instructions, and level of maturity.
Age is not as important as comfort in the water and board durability:
- Thinner boards give better balance because it rides lower on the water and fits better under the kid’s arm when transporting to and from the water. If the kid falls or jumps into the water, it’s easier to climb back on a thinner board.
- Quality, resistant material won’t tear from rough and uncaring use.
- Wider boards are more stable and easier to balance on but require more paddling effort.
- More fins steer the board easier but causes more friction.
What Are the Pros and Cons of an Inflatable SUP?
Pros
- Made of softer material, it hurts less when the board hits a kid on the head or collides with another rider.
- Flexible fins aren’t as sharp; injuries aren’t as severe.
- It doesn’t dent as easily when roughly handled.
- It rolls up for storage in small spaces.
- Fits in a backpack when traveling or if parked a distance from the water.
- Don’t have to leave the board outside at night when on holiday (avoiding unnecessary theft)
Cons
- A solid board may feel more stable
- Sold boards take less effort to paddle, and a paddler can travel a greater distance with same or less energy than with an inflatable SUP board.
- It takes about 20 minutes to inflate the board before you can go out on the water.
- Boards are easier punctured than solid boards.
Summer can be a great time to let your children experience more freedom while still being under the protective eye of mom and dad. One great way to build confidence is to get your child their own stand up paddleboard (aka SUP) – one made specifically for kids.
The following SUP’s are build for children. They are easier for kids to control, and most are more forgiving on the water. Think of the fun the family will have out on the lake paddling together under the warm summer sun!
Best SUPS For Kids
Airhead Popsicle 730 ISUP
The colorful paddling board that looks like a popsicle is designed for smaller, beginner paddlers. Young and petite kids should easily grip the molded handle to carry this lightweight board. The full round shape slows down the board so that it won’t go to fast for novices who are still unsure of their paddling abilities. Parents can always tow them with the stainless-steel tow ring at the front for a faster ride.
Seven feet is long enough to turn in the water without adding extra length for beginners to navigate. Inflatable SUPs sometimes feel not as stable as a solid board. The 6” thickness of the Airhead Popsicle gives a solid feeding and stability a novice rider would appreciate.
The deck surface is covered with EVA traction padding with a kick tail at the rear to prevent slipping from the board. A rocker at the front and rear assist in smooth handling of the SUP board. Four fixed durable fins improve traction and won’t break as quickly as loose fins.
Included in the package is a mesh backpack to allow quick drying, a pressure manual pump, pressure gauge, valve wrench, inflatable repair kit, and stainless-steel tow ring, board strap.
Weight:
19 lbs.
Dimensions:
7’x30x6”
Material:
Inflatable thick EVA traction pad using drop-stitch construction with X-cross technology
Weight Limit for Rider:
30-120 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
D-ring at the rear of the board to attach a leash
Paddle Included?
No paddle
Fins:
Four fixed thruster fins (2 x 3”, 2 x 4 ¾”)
Pathfinder Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
The Pathfinder is a great choice for both the newbie and expert youth paddler in your house.
The 5” thick paddling board rides high in the water; novices should feel safer riding high. It’s easy to assemble the adjustable paddle to the desired length for the child.
When inflated to 15 PSI, the board feels sturdy beneath your feet like a solid board. If the board isn’t inflated correctly, it may not feel as sturdy.
Package includes the adjustable aluminum paddle, single action pump, detachable center fin, carry bag with shoulder straps, and valve wrench.
Weight:
20 lbs.
Dimensions:
9’9”x30x5.”
Material:
Inflatable PVC with strong multi-layer drop-stitch
Weight Limit for Rider:
240 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
D-ring for attaching a leash but no leash included
Paddle Included?
Adjustable aluminum paddle included
Fins:
Detachable center fins
BIC Sport DURA-TEC Original SUP
The rugged Dura-Tec construction makes this BIC SUP board one of the most durable boards available. The kayak-like HDPE shell with polyurethane foam core found in surfboards gives a true board-sport feel and performance.
Highly durable, the kid’s sized board comes in the bright BIC orange color. Embossed EVA deck pad ensures excellent grip. The width is broad enough for novices to learn how to balance on the board.
It has a pre-curved ergo-grip handle for kids to transport the paddling board comfortably. The paddling board fits nicely under an adult’s arm.
Weight:
21lbs.
Dimensions:
8’4”x23.25×3.1.”
Material:
Solid polyethylene shell and highly-dense foam core
Weight Limit for Rider:
80 lbs. (9’4” board weight limit is 135 lbs.)
Does it come with a leash?
No Leash
Paddle Included?
No, the paddle is not included
Fins:
Two fixed fins and one removable center fin
Sun Dolphin Seaquest 10’ Stand Up Paddle Board
Sun Dolphin
Excellent tracking, nonslip footpads, and a board-width that helps with balance make the Sun Dolphin Seaquest, a smooth and stable ride for teenagers. Maneuvers well and is easy to get on and off. The cross section is broader than most, representing a kayak. Although it requires more paddling strength, it’s wide enough that it’s practically impossible to fall off.
The recessed cooler storage area at the back of the board is ideal for keeping a cold beverage. The bungee storage area will hold objects that need to stay dry like a mobile or keys. Additional luggage weight has no noticeable effect on the extreme stability of the board.
Five carry handle locations make it easy to transport the paddling board despite the extra weight. It is almost indestructible compared to fiberglass boards.
Weight:
50 lbs.
Dimensions:
10’x33x10”
Material:
Solid
Weight Limit for Rider:
230 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
No Leash
Paddle Included?
Adjustable paddle included
Fins:
A detached fin that screws on
True Wave 8′ Youth SUP
The True Wave padding board is ideal for young and petite kids who want to learn paddle boarding. Soft constructed deck with textured grip avoid slipping off the deck of the paddling board. In the middle of the board is a molded, mid grip handle to hold onto. The handle and non-slipping surface will give beginner paddler confidence to focus on learning the techniques and having fun without being fearful of losing their grip and falling into the water.
Kids can carry their board using the molded grip. The lightweight eases the learning experience in maneuvering the board in the water.
Weight:
12 lbs.
Dimensions:
9’
Material:
Solid HDPE bottom skin and EPS core with three marine-ply stringers
Weight Limit for Rider:
100 lbs.
Does it come with a leash?
Molded leash plug and removable ankle leash
Paddle Included?
Adjustable paddle included
Fins:
One removable fin included
What Else Will My Kid Need To Start Paddle Boarding?
- A personal floating device (PFD) may be optional for adults but not for kids, even if they are good swimmers
- Depending on the water temperature, a wetsuit
- Water boots help with board grip and avoid feet numbing from cold
- Polarized sunglasses with neck rope and sunscreen to protect against the sun
- An ankle leash keeps the board nearby if the kid falls off. The board becomes a floating device for the kid to hold onto or to climb back on board.
How Old Should My Child Be
If a kid can swim, he can paddle sitting down with a parent on a nearby board. Most kids who swim are ready by 7-8 years old, but each kid is different. Parents should decide if their child is ready considering their strength, motor skills, ability to follow instructions, and level of maturity.
Age is not as important as comfort in the water and board durability:
- Thinner boards give better balance because it rides lower on the water and fits better under the kid’s arm when transporting to and from the water. If the kid falls or jumps into the water, it’s easier to climb back on a thinner board.
- Quality, resistant material won’t tear from rough and uncaring use.
- Wider boards are more stable and easier to balance on but require more paddling effort.
- More fins steer the board easier but causes more friction.
What Are the Pros and Cons of an Inflatable SUP?
Pros
- Made of softer material, it hurts less when the board hits a kid on the head or collides with another rider.
- Flexible fins aren’t as sharp; injuries aren’t as severe.
- It doesn’t dent as easily when roughly handled.
- It rolls up for storage in small spaces.
- Fits in a backpack when traveling or if parked a distance from the water.
- Don’t have to leave the board outside at night when on holiday (avoiding unnecessary theft)
Cons
- A solid board may feel more stable
- Sold boards take less effort to paddle, and a paddler can travel a greater distance with same or less energy than with an inflatable SUP board.
- It takes about 20 minutes to inflate the board before you can go out on the water.
- Boards are easier punctured than solid boards.