A super light weight board isn’t always the best option but there are times when the lighter the board the better.
If you love to travel or backpack and want to bring your paddle board along for the adventure then a lightweight SUP is ideal.
Or there could be various reasons why you simply want a board that is easier to carry and transport.
As iSUP technology changes and improves more companies are able to build stronger and stronger boards that are lighter in weight.
That being said you will find that the smaller the board the lighter it will be and also the less weight it will be able to hold.
So when looking at lightweight paddle board options also take note and consider how much weight you will need the board to handle.
WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR
The one issue you want to be aware of when looking at ultra light paddle boards is that they are not all constructed the same.
SINGLE LAYER VS DOUBLE LAYER
Some companies will use only single layer material in the construction of their boards in order to give their customers a lightweight (and cheaper) option.
It can be hard to tell sometimes when reading the board write-ups if they are only using single layer because they will use fancy lingo to try and market their product.
Beware that some companies will say their boards are double layer because they are counting the extra layer on the side rails. However that does not actually classify the board as double layer construction.
It’s okay to purchase a single layer board if you are really trying to keep the price down just be aware that it won’t be as strong as a double layer paddle board.
A good rule of thumb is that most inflatable SUP’s priced under $700 are usually using only single layer technology. However there are a few exceptions and I will go through those below.
THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT ISUP OPTIONS
The boards listed below are all great light weight options to consider. I have listed them in order of weight starting with the lightest.
HONU BYRON 17 LBS.
| L x W x T | 10'6" x 32" x 4.72" |
| BOARD WEIGHT | 17 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 250 LBS. |
| STABILITY |  |
| PERFORMANCE |  |
| PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| REVIEW | CLICK HERE |
Considering this is the lightest option right now, the Honu Byron is a solid board.
It is well constructed, durable and strong. Although 10’6″ long and 32″ wide it is only 4.72″ thick, which really helps to keep the weight down.
A smaller thickness like you see on this board will keep the riders center of gravity a little lower and closer to the water allowing them to feel every ebb and flow and respond accordingly. This can be a lot of fun as the board will feel very responsive however it is also less stable.
For this reason unless you are confident in your paddling skills it will best suit a rider with a smaller frame. It can hold up to 250 lbs. but those who weigh under 200 lbs. will feel most comfortable on it.
This is a versatile board that can be used for cruising on calm water and even in a little surf. It has a simple yet classic design and is a lot of fun to ride.
NIXY HUNTINGTON G4 18.75 LBS.
| L x W x T | 9'6" x 32" x 6" |
| BOARD WEIGHT | 18.75 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 250 LBS. |
| STABILITY | |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| REVIEW | CLICK HERE |
The Nixy Huntington is one of my favourite lightweight inflatable SUP’s. This board surprised me with how fun and responsive it is to paddle.
It is not a very big board at 9’6” long but the 32” width stays fairly wide throughout the body and that keeps it more stable than one would think for a board this size.
The tapered nose helps it to glide well and it takes very little effort to paddle and turn.
The Huntington comes in two options, the Compact model or the Ultra Compact model. The one I am holding in the picture is the Compact model. The Ultra Compact is designed slightly different so that it folds up into a much smaller backpack that can be used for backpack trips, motorbike trips or for anyone who just wants an ultra compact package.
I like the regular Compact model because it comes with the backpack with wheels so I can roll it to and from the water.
The smaller size of this board won’t suit everyone but if you want a super portable and responsive SUP is a fantastic option.
GILI 10’6″ AIR – 19 LBS.
| L x W x T | 10'6" x 31" x 6" |
| BOARD WEIGHT | 19 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 280 LBS. |
| STABILITY | |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| REVIEW | COMMING SOON |
The Gili Air is a nice little all-around board that is stable, easy to paddle and super light weight. I have an older Gili Air and will be reviewing the newest model very soon.
There have been several upgrades for the latest model including rear removable bungees, a paddle holder, a nose action camera mount, two more action mounts, rear grab handle and a newly designed backpack.
I like the 31″ width of the Gili Air and feel that it is a very versatile board. It can hold a lot of weight for it’s smaller size and I think most beginner paddlers will feel comfortable quite quickly on this board.
With the functional features and versatile design the Gili Air is a great choice for a light weight paddle board.
HERO SUP SPARK 20 LBS.
| L x W x T | 10'5" x 31" x 6" |
| WEIGHT | 20 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 250 LBS. |
| STABILITY |  |
| PERFORMANCE |  |
| PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| REVIEW | FULL REVIEW |
The Spark is made very durable with the latest in iSUP construction. It is fun to paddle and great for days on the lake or paddling around ocean bays.
The Hero SUP boards come with a really nice rolling backpack that is perfect for travel and easily getting to and from the water.
The Spark can hold up to 250 lb but is best suited for those who weigh 220 lb or less.
This board is great for riders of all skill levels. I have known several complete beginners who learned to SUP on the Spark and continue to use and love it as their skills have improved.
If you want a super fun light weight board that you can count on the Spark is an excellent choice.
Earth River Skylake 20 lbs.
| L x W x T | 9'6" x 31" x 5" |
| WEIGHT | 20 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 220 LBS. |
| STABILITY |  |
| PERFORMANCE |  |
| PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
| REVIEW | FULL REVIEW |
Earth River is a great company with some great paddle boards. The Skylake is a super fun ISUP.
It is the smallest board on this list and best suited for those who weigh under 200 lb.
At only 9’6” long 31” wide and 5” thick you will definitely notice how quick and responsive the Skylake is to paddle.
The nice thing about the Skylake is that it is very versatile. It is fun to cruise around on but if you have the skill it can handle light surf and wake as well.
Being so light weight and responsive it is fast to turn and fun to practice pivot turns. With the smaller size this board is also ideal for kids or teens to paddle as well.
GOOSEHILL SAILOR 20.5 LBS.
| L x W x T | 10'6"x32"x6" |
| WEIGHT | 20.5 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 440 LBS. |
| STABILITY |  |
| PERFORMANCE |  |
| BEST DEAL | CHECK PRICE - USE CODE: ISUPWORLD FOR 10% OFF. |
| REVIEW | CLICK HERE |
The Goosehill Sailor is only constructed with single layer material so it isn’t necessarily as durable or strong. This isn’t the board you’ll want to use for paddling with your dog.
However it is still a great starter board and super stable at 10’6″ long, 32″ wide and 6″ thick. I have used this board quite a bit and although I am a little extra careful with it I have had no issues.
It can hold a lot of weight so it will suit riders or all sizes. The design is basic but it is functional and great for paddling on calm water.
Plus it is extremely well priced. Beginner riders will appreciate the extra stability and how easy the Goosehill Sailor is to paddle.
Common Issues For Inflatable Paddle Boards
Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard FAQ
Benefits of an Inflatable SUP
Best Touring & Performance Inflatable Paddle Boards
Hello Allison,
Thanks for compiling all of this information. I am looking at getting my own paddleboard as I currently share the Ten Toes Weekender with my fiance and she is ready to have the board to herself. I like a good all-around board like the Weekender (we have taken it all over the country and done everything from surfing to yoga on it) but I would like something a little lighter and with a better bag for taking it up into the mountains. I know your review says the Nixy Huntington G3 is the best for that kind of stuff, but it looks like the G4 version now states the all-in weight at 30lbs instead of the previous 23lbs and I like the features of the Gili Air better. My question would be if you know the all-in weight of the 10’6″ Gili Air and if you see any big difference in the durability of either of those boards? I haven’t seen any information on the double vs single layering for many boards.
Hi Hank, I am actually just in the process of reviewing the new Gili Air right now and should have the review up within a week. It’s a great board, super versatile and nice to paddle. Let me get back to you on the all in weight. I’ll weigh it tonight and let you know. Another option would be the Hero SUP Spark. Similar to the Weekender it’s just a great portable all-around board. The Spark itself weighs 20.5 lbs. I can’t remember the all in weight though, I’ll weigh that one as well. Both these boards would be good options. The Hero board is made slightly stronger. The Gili Air was made to keep the price down. That being said I have been paddling it lately and it feels solid. The Nixy Huntington is the most durable of the bunch. They are using woven drop stitch, which costs more to make the boards but increases the strength and durability. Also if you plan to hike you can’t beat the small backpack that comes with the Nixy Huntington Compact. Both Gili and Hero SUP have nice comfortable backpacks but they are still large and a bit awkward for hiking any real distance. I’ll get back to you with the weights!
I really want a super light board but I”m concerned about it feeling too small. Would you recommend the Nixy Huntington for a total beginner?
I’m in fact looking for an iSUP so I can backpack into more remote lakes in the mountains. I’m finding most websites/companies don’t list the “packed weight” eg, board, paddle, pump, bag. I’m a small framed woman at 5’4″ so packed weight is critical for me. Tx for the review 🙂
Hi Susan,
The absolute best ISUP for backpacking is the Nixy Huntington G3. The board itself only weighs 17 lbs. and the whole package weighs 23 lbs. The backpack is much smaller than most ISUP backpacks and easier to hike with. Unfortunately it’s completely sold out right now. For most inflatable SUP’s you can add about 8 lbs. on top of the board weight for the fully packed backpack.
I’m doing some training right now to hike up to some remote mountain lakes as well. I’ve been hiking with the 11’6″ Hero SUP Dynamo on my back. The board weighs 22 lbs. and the total package weighs about 30 lbs. I think. My shoulders get a bit sore but it’s doable and I find that I’m working up the muscles quickly. Good luck!!
Hi.
Looks like there are lighter inflatable SUP available than published 😉
Around 13lbs.
https://airboard.ch/collections/ultralight-edition
For sure, they are not made for rough paddling. – I think its more something like a superlight carbon race-bike where you also take a little more care than regular.
Cheers Thomas
13 lbs! Wow that’s super light. Very cool, thanks for sharing!
Love your content! Finding so much useful info. I’m wondering if the really light weight boards are durable enough?
Hi Rebecca, Sometimes the really lightweight boards are not made as durable. To lower the weight often the material is not as thick and durable. However there are many lightweight boards are made quite tough. I feel quite confident in the models listed in this post. Cheers.
I have 4 SUPs and I bought the lightweight airSUP based on your review. I throw it in the back of my car when I take a road trip anywhere because it is so portable. Really lightweight, maneuverable, and quick to inflate and deflate. Also easier for a smaller person like myself to handle in heavy wind. I have never regretted the purchase. When I SUP with friends I usually loan them my expensive, faster boards and use the airSUP because it is just so much fun.
Thanks for the comment Barbara! So glad to hear you are enjoying the airSUP. I totally agree it is just so portable, convenient and fun. Happy paddling!