Hard Board Advantage: Why Loco Solid SUPs Are the Choice for Performance & Durability

When it comes to paddleboarding, there’s a longstanding debate between solid paddle boards (hard boards) and inflatable models. While inflatable boards have gained popularity for their convenience and portability, there’s still no substitute for the feel, performance, and responsiveness of a solid SUP. For paddlers who are looking for superior speed, performance, and a classic, reliable design, a hard board is the way to go. At Loco, our solid boards are built for those who want to take their paddleboarding experience to the next level, offering exceptional control, durability, and versatility for riders of all levels.

Let’s explore why a solid paddle board makes sense for serious riders who value performance and quality gear that lasts season after season.

Performance You Can Feel – Why Solid Boards Are Superior

The primary advantage of a solid paddle board is the performance it delivers. When you’re riding a Loco hard board, you get the feedback, glide, and responsiveness that inflatable SUPs simply can’t match. Solid boards are designed with rigidity that enhances your ability to cut through the water smoothly and efficiently. Unlike inflatables, which are soft and flexible, a hard board remains firm, which means more speed, better tracking, and greater stability.

Whether you're touring, racing, or SUP surfing, a solid board provides an immediate connection to the water. With no bounce underfoot, each paddle stroke is more effective, transferring your energy directly into forward momentum. The rigid shape of the hard board slices through the water, making it easier to maintain a straight line and stay on course, even in choppy conditions or when you’re paddling at higher speeds.

In contrast, inflatable boards, while great for casual use, have a degree of flex that reduces efficiency and responsiveness. The stability and control of a solid board, like those from Loco, make it the ideal choice for paddlers who want to improve their technique, whether it’s carving on waves or cruising on flatwater. This heightened level of performance makes hard boards a game-changer for serious riders.

Durability Built for Real Life

Another key benefit of a solid paddle board is its durability. When you invest in a Loco solid board, you’re getting a product that is built to last. Our boards feature high-density EPS foam cores, layered with fiberglass and carbon reinforcements to provide excellent strength and impact resistance. This combination of materials ensures that your board can handle rough conditions, including bumps, knocks, and scratches, without losing its shape or performance.

Unlike inflatable boards, which are prone to punctures and require regular maintenance, a solid board like the Loco hard board is built to handle the wear and tear of regular use. You won’t have to worry about deflating, folding, or checking the PSI before each session. After a day on the water, simply rinse your board off, store it, and it’s ready for the next outing. No hassle, no fuss.

This rugged durability makes a solid board the perfect choice for riders who want to paddle in a variety of conditions, from lake paddling to surfing. Whether you're navigating rocky shores or riding through turbulent surf, your Loco solid board will stand up to the challenges, season after season.

Better for Progression and Long-Term Use

If you’re planning to paddle frequently — or want a board that will grow with you as your skills progress — a solid board is a smarter long-term investment. Loco’s solid paddle boards are designed to handle all levels of paddling, from beginner to advanced. As your skill level improves, the board will continue to deliver the performance and control you need to progress further, making it a versatile choice for paddlers who want to improve and challenge themselves.

Another key factor is resale value. Solid paddle boards hold their value much better than inflatables, which can wear out or degrade over time. As a result, if you decide to upgrade or change boards in the future, you’ll find that your Loco hard board has a higher resale value compared to inflatable models, which tend to lose their appeal as they age.

Additionally, hard boards tend to be easier to repair than inflatable boards, so any minor damage can typically be addressed with relative ease. This adds to the longevity of a solid board, ensuring that it will continue to perform well for years, even with regular use.

Why Choose Loco’s Solid Paddle Boards?

At Loco, we’ve dedicated ourselves to creating boards that deliver exceptional performance, unmatched durability, and superior comfort. Our solid boards are designed for serious paddlers who want more from their gear — whether you’re touring, racing, or riding waves. Loco boards are crafted with the finest materials and cutting-edge design to ensure that your paddleboarding experience is always at its best.

Loco's solid paddle boards offer several advantages:

• Improved performance with better glide, stability, and control
• Built to last, with high-density foam cores and reinforced fiberglass and carbon layers
• Ideal for progression, as they handle a variety of conditions and skill levels
• Low-maintenance, with no deflating or worrying about PSI
• Superior resale value, making them a smart long-term investment

Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just starting out, Loco’s solid boards give you the edge you need to maximize your time on the water. They’re designed to help you ride harder, perform better, and enjoy your sessions without the concerns that come with other board types.

Solid Paddle Board vs. Inflatable Paddle Board: The Key Differences

While inflatable boards may seem like a convenient choice for beginners or casual paddlers, they come with certain limitations that serious riders often feel as they progress. Inflatables, while portable and easy to store, lack the rigidity and responsiveness that solid boards offer. As a result, many riders find that inflatable boards become less effective as their skills develop.

Solid paddle boards, on the other hand, are designed for high-performance and are perfect for riders who want to challenge themselves. With Loco’s solid boards, you get the best of both worlds: a board that’s easy to manage, versatile enough for different activities, and built to last.

Loco’s Solid Paddle Boards Are Built for Performance

When it comes to paddleboarding, a solid paddle board is the clear choice for riders who prioritize speed, performance, and durability. Whether you’re hitting the lake, the ocean, or the river, Loco’s solid boards are designed to keep up with your paddleboarding needs, no matter how advanced you get. With rigid construction, superior glide, and increased control, these boards offer unmatched performance in all conditions, helping you take your paddling to the next level.

Investing in a Loco solid board means you’re getting a long-term, reliable partner for your paddleboarding adventures — one that will perform and endure for years to come. So, whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned pro, choose Loco and experience the difference that a solid paddle board can make.