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Whether you are a beginner or a seasonal paddler, the $400 price range is enough to buy a budget to mid-range inflatable paddleboard. No doubt, the market is filled with low-price inflatable stand-up paddleboards, but finding the right one without compromising too much on the quality and performance is necessary. That’s where we will help you.
Today, we have brought a list of the best paddleboard under 400. After extensively researching and testing different entries, we have finalized a list of the top 8 entries. But that’s not it.
Here, we will also discuss some important factors that will come in handy while buying the paddleboards. Lastly, we will share some FAQs regarding this topic. So, even if you are not here for this list, you can still find some important bits to improve your knowledge regarding paddleboards. Hence, without any further ado, let’s begin this topic with the ‘Buying Guide’ first.
What to Consider While Choosing the Stand-up Paddleboards? – the Buying Guide
Whether we talk about purchasing paddleboards or any other thing, it is always difficult to choose something in a budget range. But we have made a list of the factors that you can use as a template to choose the right paddle board for you. So, before discussing the entries on today’s list, keep the following things in mind.
1. Shapes
Paddleboards come in different shapes and sizes. However, the two most popular shapes are Touring/Displacement/V-Shaped boards and Planing boards.
- Touring/Displacement/V-Shaped board – helps in maintaining a line and getting a good consistent speed. These nose-shaped boards are pretty effective because they allow the user to pierce through the water while going through the current or chop.
- All-around/planning board–also works great because they come with the traditional rounded shape to the nose.
So, choosing between these two shapes depends on how you want your board to perform for you while you’re in the water.
2. Standard Features
Every paddleboard comes with some standard features. So, your paddleboard should have the following standard fortes.
- Handle – which helps you pack the board to and from the water. This is typically in the center, which brings a satisfying balancing point because you’re neither dragging the nose nor the tail.
- Fins – allows you to move forward in a straight line. So, your paddleboard should have fins (either single or multiple).
- TractionPad – is a subtle cushy area that lets you have grip and remain in contact with your paddleboard all the time.
3. Length
Mostly, paddleboards’ lengths vary from 10.5-14 feet and they also have variations in increments from 3 to 4 to 6 to various other inches of increments. So, we discuss some scenarios that will help you while choosing between different lengths of paddleboards.
- If you want a paddleboard that is easier to turn, then a shorter board should be your choice. For example, for paddle surfing, people use shorter planning boards.
- If you want to go straight and be efficient in the water, then a longer board is perfect for you. For example, if you’re on a bay, a lake where there’s no surf required, a touring board is best for you.
4. Width
Width plays a vital role in the stability of the board and, mostly, paddleboards come in 26 to 32-inches of width. So, you should pick the width of the board according to your experience level. For example, the touring board should be 30-inches and the planning board should be 31-32-inches wide for beginners.
5. Volume
Aside from shape, length, and width, volume is another important factor that you should consider while buying a paddleboard. For example, experts don’t recommend a board that doesn’t have enough volume to float its user. Because the wrong combination of paddlers with the volume will result in an uneasy ride in the water (practically swimming 😁). So, it’s best to choose a board with enough volume.
Now, let’s move to the best entries for today’s list.
List for the Best Paddle Board Under 400
In the following list, you will find some entries similar to the best inflatable sup under $500 and best paddleboard under 500 list. So, don’t panic because we have considered those entries for this list, as we have found them suitable.
Now, let’s start the list.
1. ROC Inflatable Stand-up Paddleboard – Amazon’s Best Seller
The first spot on our list for the best SUP board under 400 is an excellent and easy-to-use iSUP that offers incredible value. Its name is ROC inflatable stand-up paddleboard (iSUP). So, let’s take an in-depth look at this paddleboard and see the features that make this paddleboard worthy of being the first contender on this list.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet
Width: 33-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 17.5 lbs. Package Dimensions: 34 x 16 x 12-inches |
In-Depth Review:
ROC SUP Co. has built this inflatable SUP as a rock with the help of military-grade material. Therefore, this iSUP can last a lifetime. The military-grade material of this iSUP allows the users to maneuver this paddleboard easily and its diamond EVA deck pad provides a good grip and brings comfort while standing on it. Hence, your experience level won’t be an issue while paddleboarding with this iSUP.
Like most iSUPs we have tested so far, this one also comes as a complete package and it’s a major plus point for iSUP users because companies are providing the complete accessories packs in this price range. So, you have got a coil safety leash, collapsible aluminum paddle, hand pump, and three (one removable and two fixed) fins with it. This inflatable paddle board also includes a waterproof bag and an upgraded backpack. However, the included backpack is not as reliable as other accessories because it is made from an easy-to-tear material.
This ROC inflatable stand-up paddleboard is highly durable and its durability comes from its rock-like manufacturing. But despite its rock-like manufacturing, this paddleboard is the second lightest entry on our list, as it weighs only 17.5 pounds. So, this one is perfect for anyone looking for the best lightweight paddle boards because it is a budget entry.
This iSUP is not only durable but is also a reliable entity and its reliability comes from a double-layered deck, a reinforced core, three fins, and a UV resistant coating. So, you can attach the fins with a plastic clip and the clip will hold the fin securely in its place. This paddleboard is one of the few options that use a three-layer PVC laminate technology in a budget range. So, it’s a great value iSUP in a budget range because you can’t puncture or scratch it easily.
| PROS | CONS |
| A portable choice, therefore, easier to transport | A few of the paddlers have reported the issue while connecting the air pump nozzle to the valve |
| Availability of electric pump | Smaller D-rings |
| Suitable for any experience level | Non-durable backpack |
| Great build quality | |
| Great value in a budget range | |
| Ultra-lightweight |
2. Awesafe Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board 10’x32″x6″ – Amazon’s Best Seller
The second entry on our list for the best paddleboard under 400 is the lightest entry on this list. Its name is awesafe iSUP. This one might be a bit unknown to some users, but, currently, it is one of the best-selling paddleboards on Amazon. So, let’s take an in-depth look at this paddleboard to find out more about it.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet
Width:32-inches Thickness:6-inches Item Weight: 17.2 lbs. Weight Capacity: 320 lbs. Recommended PSI: – 12-15 PSI Package Dimensions: 10’ x 32” x 6” |
In-Depth Review:
The (32-inches) standard width of this paddleboard makes it suitable for skills of all levels. Plus, its other characteristics make it suitable for different water conditions, such as freshwater lakes and rivers. This paddle board is ideal for fishing, snorkeling, touring, and yoga. So, this is another all-around lightweight paddleboard on this list for paddleboard enthusiasts.
The company has used high-quality military-grade material in the construction of this paddleboard. Other than this, the company has used ultra-light drop-stitch cores. That is why it is the lightest paddleboard on this list. Plus, this lightweight paddleboard comes at a reasonable price point as compared to the other heavyweights. So, that is why we have put this on the cheap paddle boards list.
The EVA non-slippery deck pad of this paddleboard improves the stability of the board while standing. So, it reduces the possibility of falling while paddleboarding. Being an inflatable paddleboard, the company has used a double-deck valve, which speeds up the inflation process as well as reduces the chances of air leakage. So, this valve comes in pretty handy to prevent the board from water entering. This paddleboard comes with a lot of storage features. For example, the six-spot expandable bungee system of this paddleboard allows the riders to attach more stuff.
The company provides a three-piece adjustable aluminum paddle along with this paddleboard. Speaking of its paddle, the company has used a premium aluminum alloy shaft and nylon blade. Being an adjustable paddle, you can fit this paddle easily into the provided travel bag. The shoulder strap of the travel backpack thickens and widens the backpack. So, it equally divides the weight of the backpack.
Aside from the bag and paddle, this paddleboard comes with a detachable fin, manual air pump, safety leash, waterproof bag for holding the essentials. So, it has a complete accessories pack.
| PROS | CONS |
| Complete accessories pack | A manual pump might be a drawback for some users |
| Lightest paddle board we have ever tested | Not as stable as other entries |
| Works at 12 PSI as well |
3. SereneLife Premium Inflatable Stand-up Paddleboard:
The third spot on our list for the best inflatable paddle board under $400belongs to the SereneLife inflatable stand-up paddleboard. This iSUP is perfect for paddlers who love adventures and there are several reasons for it. So, let’s see those reasons through its features and benefits.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet, 6-inches
Width: 32-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 19.6 lbs. Package Dimensions: 36.6 x 17.2 x 10.2-inches |
In-Depth Review:
SereneLife has designed this paddleboard by keeping the ease of users in mind and, its inflating procedure is the live proof of it. You will just have to plug the pump in the air valve and keep inflating until the pressure gauge on the pump reaches the green zone. Once done, then you can detach the pump without worrying about escaping air. So, it is the first plus point of this iSUP.
This paddleboard comes with an entry-level accessories pack (in terms of quality), including a 9-inch detachable board fin, coiled ankle cuff safety leash, and a manual air pump. For the ease of users, Serene Life has packed all these accessories inside a convenient storage bag. So, you’ll have no problem carrying them. However, the unavailability of padding in the strap is a drawback because it will create discomfort for women.
The build of this paddleboard is PVC-based, which means it will be stable while standing. And even if you fall while standing or learning paddleboarding, you will not hit a hardboard on your way down because its build is gentle. However, the build quality is not the same as expensive iSUPs because it uses two-layer laminate technology. Still, it is better than most iSUPs which use a single-layer laminate technology.
Speaking of the build, this iSUP has a thinner and plastic construction, but this is acceptable at a $400 price point. The foam pad of this iSUP features a diamond design that covers enough area of the board and gives it an attractive look. Plus, the portable design of this paddleboard makes it easier to do yoga or any other exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature. So, that’s another plus point.
Whether you are an adult or a teenager, you can easily glide across the surface with this paddleboard because it is an inflatable paddleboard and it improves the balance and stability of riders. Even if you have caused any minor damage to this iSUP, you can easily repair that damage with the help of the provided repair kit. Speaking of accessories, you can easily extend the paddle to suit anyone’s height. So, whether you’re a short or long person, you won’t face any issue with its paddle.
| PROS | CONS |
| Availability of D-range will prove useful for both attachment and storage | The use of the included air pump might be challenging for some users |
| Non-slippery top deck design | Although the color options’ list is extensive, they fade easily |
| Complete package | |
| Lightweight |
4. Funwater Inflatable Paddle Board SUP TIKI – Amazon’s Best Seller:
The fourth entry on the list of the best paddleboard under 400 belongs to the 10’6″Funwater inflatable paddleboard SUP TIKI. This paddleboard is an ideal choice for beginners who are budget conscious. So, whether you fall into such a category or not, checking this paddleboard won’t be a time wastage.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet, 6-inches
Width: 33-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 17.6 lbs. Max Pressure: 15 PSI Package Dimensions: 10’6” x 33“ x 6” |
In-Depth Review:
Funwater has used an additional PVC layer for constructing the board rails of this paddleboard. This will strengthen the durability of the board, which is just what beginners need. As you can see in the specs sheet of Funwater TIKI, it weighs only 18.5 pounds. So, it is the third lightest entry on this list, which also makes it suitable for beginners. Plus, its budget price is proving to be icing on the cake, as it won’t break the bank. So, it is an ideal choice for beginners because always go for the budget entry while trying something for the first time.
The width of this paddleboard offers a good amount of stability in calm waters and lakes. So, this paddleboard suits the relaxed water and lake conditions for paddleboarding. Plus, the weight capacity of this paddleboard is around 330 lbs. Hence, it’s a decent paddleboard in a budget range.
But being a budget range paddleboard does not always bring benefits. That is why you won’t find double cylinder pumps and carbon paddles with this paddleboard. Other than the absence of double cylinder pumps and carbon paddles, you will find a travel backpack, coil leash, waterproof bag, and three removable fins in the package of this paddleboard.
| PROS | CONS |
| Suitable for beginners who are budget conscious | Being a budget entry, it is not as refined as other entries on this list |
| Second lightest entry on this list | Availability of a single-cylinder pump may be a drawback |
| Stable | Non-floating paddle |
5. FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board:
The fifth spot on our list for the best inflatable stand-up paddleboard under $400 belongs to FBSPORT Premium iSUP. This inflatable stand-up paddleboard is also suitable for the list of the best paddleboards under $300 because you can get it for less than $300. So, let’s take an in-depth look at this paddleboard.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet, 6-inches
Width: 30-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: – 22 lbs. Package Dimensions: -35.5 x 15 x 10.5 inches |
In-Depth Review:
This iSUP features three fins and one fin is removable, whereas the other one is fixed on the board. The overall speed of the board improves through the triple bottom panel fins. So, when you order this iSUP, it comes with package essentials, including a coiled ankle cuff, a carrying bag, a floatable premium alloy paddle, a pump, and a safety leash. The dimensions of this iSUP improve the balance and stability of this paddleboard while standing because it comes with a military-grade PVC construction material.
This iSUP is suitable for all skill levels because the non-slippery soft deck pad of this iSUP minimizes the possibility of accidents. Plus, it is suitable for all-weather conditions and all types of paddling, including fishing, recreational paddling, snorkeling, spearfishing, and touring.
| PROS | CONS |
| Strong and durable build | No tie-down system |
| Good design | Unavailability of repairing kit |
6. Bestway Hydro-Force OceanaInflatable Stand-up Paddle Board:
The sixth spot on the list for the best paddleboard under 400 belongs to the Bestway inflatable stand-up paddleboard (iSUP). This inflatable stand-up paddleboard targets users with a low-to-mid-range budget. It is suitable for lakes as well as yogis. So, let’s see its in-depth review to find out more about this paddleboard.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet
Width: 33-inches Thickness:4.75-inches Item Weight: 30 lbs. Package Dimensions: 36 x 18.5 x 11.75-inches |
In-Depth Review:
If we discuss a certain set of requirements that an iSUP must fulfill to qualify as a suitable iSUP for lakes or yogis, then this paddleboard meets all of them. For starters, the dimensions of this paddleboard are perfect for lakes’ paddle boarding. Hence, without inflating it too hard, you can easily handle this paddleboard. But our testing shows that inflating it is not a one-man’s job.
The 6-inches thickness adds the cherry on top because it’s the average best thickness that users look for while buying an iSUP. You can check more details about what you should look for while buying the paddleboards in the ‘Buying Guide’ section. Anyway, traction pads have become an essential feature in paddle boards because every company provides them. So, Bestway is no exception here. But its traction pad is a full-length non-slippery traction pad, which won’t destabilize the riders while paddleboarding on lakes.
Even if you make some mistake while paddling, the two fins of this iSUP prevent it from flipping over. So, extra security is always a plus point for us. Last but not least, this iSUP is customizable as well because you can convert it into a kayak by configuring a seat with it.
| PROS | CONS |
| Non-slippery soft traction pad | Pumping up this board is not a one man’s job |
| Stable | Low-quality paddles |
| Convertible to Kayak | |
| Easier to deflate and inflate |
7. Pathfinder Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board
If you’re looking for a portable iSUP to get started with paddleboarding, then the PathFinder iSUP is a good choice. This entry has made the seventh spot on our list for the best budget inflatable paddle boards and let’s see the specialties that make this iSUP worth using.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 11-inches
Width: 31-inches Thickness: 5-inches Item Weight: 24.52 lbs. Package Dimensions: 36.77 x 18.7 x 8.74 -inches |
In-Depth Review:
The design of this iSUP is pretty attractive and it’s portable as well. So, you can easily store this iSUP anywhere you like. The dimensions of this iSUP make it stable enough that riders can perform any exercise on it. Plus, this is a highly maneuverable paddleboard and whether you’re a beginner or pro, maneuvering this iSUP won’t be an issue for you.
Like most inflatable paddleboards in the market, Pathfinder has also constructed this iSUP with the combination of military-grade PVC material and drop-stitch technology. So, it’s strong enough to withstand hard hits. Similarly, you will get a complete accessory pack with this iSUP, including an aluminum paddle, carry bag, center fin, hand pump, large deck pad, and valve wrench.
This iSUP is suitable for any water conditions and, whether you want to use it in rivers, lakes, or the ocean, it won’t be an issue for this iSUP. While on water, you can pack almost every gear with you because of its secure onboard cargo.
| PROS | CONS |
| Easily maneuverable | Low-quality paddle |
| Easy to set up | No leash |
8. DAMA 10’6″ Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board
The last spot on our list for the best paddleboard under 400 belongs to another multifunctional all-around iSUP named DAMAiSUP. This iSUP is unique from most entries on our list because of its available mount for attaching camera gears. Apart from this feature, there are several handy benefits of this iSUP. So, let’s look at them.
| KEY PRODUCT’s SPECS |
| Length: 10-feet, 6-inches
Width: 32-inches Thickness: 6-inches Item Weight: 19.8 lbs. Package Dimensions: 34.2 x 14.5 x 10 – inches |
In-Depth Review:
Starting with its setup, this iSUP is pretty easy to set up because it only takes 10 minutes to inflate and 5 minutes to deflate. Like most iSUPs, you will find a grip handle in it. But in addition to that, the additional steel D-rings make transportation of this iSUP easier. Plus, you can travel together with your friends by connecting these rings to your friends’ paddleboards. Even if you want to set up a kayak seat in this iSUP, the steel D-rings will be useful in that situation as well.
As mentioned earlier, it’s a unique iSUP. But the available mount is not the only reason for its uniqueness because its anti-corrosion and ultraviolet (UV) proof material make it a multipurpose iSUP. So, you can use it for paddling, touring, or yoga on lakes and the sea. Plus, you can use this iSUP in salt or freshwater. Hence, it’s a versatile iSUP.
This iSUP has everything you need to start paddling, including an adjustable paddle, a camera mount, a hand pump (with an air pressure gauge), removable fins, a repair kit, a safety ankle leash, a transparent waterproof cell phone bag, and a 5-liter waterproof bag. The waterproof bag is multipurpose as well because you can either use it as a life jacket or accessory for carrying essentials. The double bungee system of this iSUP allows the user to carry more equipment because of its large space. Plus, the carrier will come in handy while carrying this iSUP to the sea/lake/ocean. There’s also a spring rope on this iSUP and you can use it to carry the bag or paddle.
| PROS | CONS |
| Availability of camera mount | Poor quality pump |
| Support of attaching a kayak seat | Accessories are not as sturdy as other entries on our list |
| Multipurpose | |
| Complete package to get you started | |
| Convenient inflation and deflation process | |
| Lightweight |
Honorable Mentions
Some other entries could have been on this list. But we have not included them because, at the time of creating this list, they’re unavailable on most e-commerce stores. So, if you want a paddleboard under $400, the following entries are also worth considering.
- Cooyes 10’6″ Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board.
- Freein 10’2″ All-Around Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board.
Read More: Best Fishing Paddle Boards
Wrapping Up
Although we have specifically picked the entries in this list that fall under the $400 category, you will still find some entries that you can get for $300, $200, or maybe less price. So, even if you are searching for the best inflatable paddle board under $300, an inflatable paddle board under $200, or a paddleboard under 200, this list will still prove useful.
Plus, we recommend reading the ‘Buying Guide’ before moving on to the list. That is why we have put the ‘Buying Guide’section before the main list.
1. Are cheap inflatable SUPs good?
Some cheap inflatable SUPs are worth spending money on, but you should not compare the performance of cheap paddleboards to their premium counterparts because they will definitely fall behind
2. What is the best paddleboard to buy?
It entirely depends on your requirement because paddleboards are available in different shapes, sizes, styles, and price points. High-end paddleboards will be superior to budget-range paddleboards. But some budget-range paddleboards are better than mid or high-end paddleboards.
So, we can’t suggest which one is the best to buy. However, you can check the best value inflatable paddleboards list to find out our best picks for 2022.
3. What is the best value paddleboard?
According to the paddleboards we have tested so far, Atoll iSUP is the best inflatable paddleboard. But if you want something for attaching your camera, go for some other entry as there is no such option in Atoll iSUP. But if you want a complete list of the best inflatable paddle boards 2021, check out the best value inflatable paddleboards.
4. What’s the difference between a cheap and expensive paddleboard?
The price of cheap paddleboards attracts the users at first, but their cheap quality makes them inferior and less durable compared to high-end paddleboards. So, even if you find some paddle boards under $100, their performance will be far inferior to their expensive counterparts.
