Top Inflatable Paddle Boards UK 2025 – Full Guide
Looking for a reliable inflatable stand-up paddle board in the UK? Start with our full collection at Loco Surfing.
Inflatable SUPs fit UK life well. They pack small for city storage or car trips. You can carry one on public transport to spots like the Lake District. Data shows they hold 66.9% of the UK market in 2025, thanks to easy handling. For most paddlers, this type beats rigid boards on convenience.
Inflatable vs Rigid: Quick Comparison
Rigid boards suit speed events or wave riding. They cut water faster with less drag. But inflatables win on daily use. They resist dings from rocks better and store flat. Here's a side-by-side look:
| Feature | Inflatable SUP | Rigid SUP |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | Packs into a bag; easy to carry | Needs roof racks; bulky to move |
| Storage | Fits in closets or boots | Requires garage space |
| Durability | Bounces off rocks; puncture-resistant | Scratches easily on shores |
| Performance | Stable glide for calm waters | Quicker in races or surf |
| Setup Time | 5-10 minutes to pump up | Ready right away |
| Best Use | Travel, beginners, family outings | Competition, advanced surfing |
In the UK, inflatables suit varied spots like rivers or coasts. Rigid ones work for pros chasing peaks.
Board Types: Match to Your Needs
Pick based on what you do most. All-round boards handle daily paddles. Touring ones cover distance. Surf models turn quick on waves.
- All-Round: Wide nose for balance. Good for new paddlers on lakes or slow rivers. Try the Loco Amigo Air at 32 inches wide.
- Touring: Longer shape for straight paths. Covers miles on canals like the Norfolk Broads. The Loco Motion Air tracks well.
- Surf: Shorter with curve for waves. Handles UK breaks in Devon. The Loco Shred Air grips turns.
Yoga boards add width for poses. Kids options like the Loco Kids Amigo Air keep it light.
Size Guide: Fit to Your Weight
Size affects float and ease. Wider boards steady beginners. Volume supports your load. Under 70kg? Go 10'6" by 32". Over 100kg? Pick 11' by 34" for lift.
Quick chart:
| Weight (kg) | Length | Width (inches) | Thickness | Example Board |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 70 | 10'4"-10'6" | 32-34 | 6" | Amigo Air |
| 70-90 | 10'6"-11' | 32-33 | 6" | Loco Aztec Air |
| Over 90 | 11'-12' | 33-34 | 6" | Loco Scout Air |
6 inches thick gives firmness at 15 PSI. Add gear weight too.
Build Quality: Inside the Board
Drop-stitch links top and bottom PVC with threads. At 15 PSI, it stays flat like rigid. Layers matter: single for light use, double for strength.
Fusion bonds layers with heat. It cuts weight but holds air tight. Loco boards use this for 20 PSI max. Rails take wave hits without flex.
Key Add-Ons: Complete Your Kit
A full package saves hassle. Look for these:
- Paddle: Adjustable carbon for light swing.
- Pump: Dual-action fills fast.
- Leash: Coiled keeps it close without drag.
- Fins: Removable for tracking.
- Bag: Padded for safe carry.
The Loco Fly Air includes all.
Price Ranges: What to Expect
Under £400: Basic single-layer. Fine for light use but flexes.
£400-£700: Mid fusion build. Stiff with good kits. Most UK picks.
Over £700: Top touring or surf. Matches rigid feel.
Loco sits in mid for value. The Rapid Air handles rivers tough.
Common Questions
Do inflatables last on rocky UK shores? Yes, PVC shrugs off pebbles. Rare punctures fix easy.
Best beginner size? 10'6" by 32-34" wide. Stable without bulk.
Care routine? Rinse fresh after salt. Dry full. Store cool, dry. Roll loose.
Surf on one? Short models work on small UK waves. Add rocker for turns.
Get Started on UK Waters
Inflatables open up rivers, lochs, and beaches. The Loco S Wave fits white water. Check local spots. Share your first paddle below.
