Choosing the Best Inflatable Paddle Board for You

An inflatable paddle board is lighter to carry, easier to store and a blast to paddle. What’s not to love? Inflatables have also come a long way in elegant, efficient engineering, meaning they are no longer just a one-size-fits-all option. See an inflatable paddle board out there that isn’t something you recognize? Just say no. The right board really matters.

If you’ve been considering an inflatable paddle board but are unsure where to start, no need to look any further. Below are the highlighted and best options based on how one would want to use it, whether that’s all purpose, fitness, fishing or expedition.

Still confused? Give BOTE a call, reach out on social media, or just plain send us an email. Our experts are available by phone or chat to answer any questions you may have. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to join #BOTENATION and hit the water!

FOR FUN

You’re going to have fun no matter which inflatable paddle board you choose, so the decision really comes down to the total weight load you plan to carry when paddling and overall stability. The wider the board, the more stable it will be. When determining weight, remember to add in the additional weight expectations for any gear you think you might take or other riders. If you plan to take either dogs or kids, the BOTE Full Trax models are a great choice for a comfortable ride. It is recommended to always use a 50lb guidance to the limit or it is better to choose a bigger board.

FOR FITNESS

Wanna get fit? Want to keep fit? Simply paddling an inflatable paddle board is a workout. But you don’t have to stop there. Long distance paddling or paddle board racing is easy on the sleek Traveller Aero. Or, bring your favorite workout to the water for a more intense version. A vinyasa flow at sunrise is possible on the lightweight Flood Aero. The HD Aero is slightly more stable with an additional two inches in width. Both offer bungees on the side to store your paddle when not in use. Just be sure to get the Full Trax versions for maximum grip on the board.

FOR THE ANGLER

Fishing from an inflatable paddle board means ultimate utility. The Rackham Aero, HD Bugslinger Aero and Rover Aero offer further innovations like the Sandspear sheath and mounting points for a Power-Pole Micro. They’re also the widest platforms, offering the best stability, most deck space and highest capacity for gear. Receivers for the BOTE Tackle Rac, Bucket Rac and Cooler Tie-Downs are available on almost every inflatable paddle board BOTE makes.

FOR THE EXPLORER

When it comes to expeditions, you want an inflatable paddle board that can handle as much gear as you need while still moving efficiently through the water. The Traveller Aero is our fastest paddle board because of its sleek design, making it the best for covering long distances. Unless, of course, you want a motor, in which case the Rover Aero is your best bet. The Rackham Aero falls in between the two, providing unmatched stability that’s ideal for large paddlers.