Paddle boarding has long been a popular water sport, offering a peaceful and invigorating way to explore waterways and enjoy the outdoors. However, for those seeking a more competitive edge, the world of racing paddle boards has emerged as an exciting frontier. As we approach the 2024 paddle boarding season, it's time to explore the best options for the dedicated racer.
The key factors that distinguish high-performance racing paddle boards are their length, width, rocker profile, construction materials, and fin systems. These design elements directly impact the board's speed, maneuverability, and durability – all crucial attributes for the serious competitor. Racing boards typically range from 12 to 14 feet in length, with the most elite models leveraging lightweight, high-tech materials like carbon fiber to shave off precious ounces. The width of these boards, usually between 25 to 30 inches, balances stability and responsiveness, while the rocker profile – the curve of the board from nose to tail – is optimized for cutting through the water efficiently.
Beyond the physical attributes of the boards themselves, the choice of fin configuration can also make a significant difference. Removable or adjustable fins allow racers to fine-tune their setup for specific water conditions, giving them a competitive edge. These advanced features, combined with the overall design emphasis on speed and agility, set racing paddle boards apart from their recreational counterparts.
Starboard Sprint Carbon Sandwich: Elite Racing SUP
Starboard Sprint | 14' x 23" / Carbon Sandwich -- $3699(Paddleboard Specialists)
Starboard Sup Sprint 14'0" x 23" Carbon Sandwich 14'0" x 23" Board Bag -- $3220(Riverbound Sports Paddle Company)
Why We Picked It
The Starboard Sprint Carbon Sandwich stands out for its unparalleled speed and glide efficiency, making it a premier choice for competitive racers and enthusiasts who prioritize performance on the water. Its construction in Carbon Sandwich technology not only ensures a lightweight board but also contributes to its stiffness and speed, making every stroke count towards victory.
Who It's For
This board is ideally suited for experienced paddlers and competitive racers who are looking to push their limits and achieve top speeds. Its specialized design and high cost make it less suitable for casual paddlers or beginners who might not yet benefit from the advanced features it offers.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional speed and glide efficiency for competitive racing | ❌ High cost may be prohibitive for some |
| ✅ Lightweight and stiff construction using Carbon Sandwich technology | ❌ Specialized design not suited for casual or beginner paddlers |
| ✅ Designed for top performance in various water conditions | ❌ Narrow width may challenge stability for less experienced users |
Infinity Blackfish Dugout: Elite Racing SUP Board
BLACKFISH DUGOUT 14 x 21.5 x 269L / BLACK/GREY 441 / DUGOUT -- $3195(Infinity Surf)
Infinity Blackfish 14' x 24.5" Race Board -- $2795(supcalifornia.com)
Infinity SUP Blackfish 14' x 23" - Ghost White -- $3495(supcalifornia.com)
Why We Picked It
The Infinity Blackfish Dugout stands out for its innovative dugout design, which enhances stability and speed, making it a top choice for racers navigating various water conditions. Its unique design is tailored for competitive paddling, offering a blend of speed, stability, and performance that sets it apart from traditional SUP boards. The choice of sizes and colors, including the striking BLACK/GREY 441 Dugout, ensures that there's a perfect match for every racer's preferences and needs.
Who It's For
This board is ideal for competitive paddlers and racers who prioritize speed and stability in their equipment. It's best suited for those who are willing to adapt to the dugout design for the competitive edge it provides in races. However, it might not be the first choice for beginners or those primarily interested in leisure paddling in flat water conditions due to its specialized design.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Innovative dugout design enhances stability and speed | ❌ Dugout design may require an adjustment period |
| ✅ Optimized for competitive racing in various water conditions | ❌ May not perform as well in flat water conditions |
| ✅ Available in multiple sizes and colors to suit different preferences | ❌ Premium pricing reflects its specialized design and features |
NSP Carolina Pro Carbon: Best High-Performance Racing SUP
NSP PUMA - 14'0" - Pro Carbon - Race SUP 14'0" x 24.5" -- $2995(Plaia Shop)
Puma Pro Carbon 2022 14'0" x 22'' | 265.0 L -- $2900(NSP North America)
Why We Picked It
The NSP Carolina Pro Carbon is a top-of-the-line racing SUP designed for serious paddlers who demand the best in both flatwater and open ocean performance. Its construction and design are tailored to provide speed, stability, and versatility, making it a standout choice for competitive racing and intense training sessions.
Who It's For
This board is best suited for experienced paddlers and professional racers who are looking for a high-performance board that can handle a variety of conditions. It's not the best fit for casual paddlers or beginners due to its narrow design and high cost, which reflect its specialized racing capabilities.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Versatile design suitable for flatwater and open ocean racing | ❌ Premium price tag reflects its high-end status |
| ✅ Pro Carbon construction ensures top-tier performance and durability | ❌ Narrow design may not be suitable for beginners or casual paddlers |
| ✅ Available in different sizes to accommodate various paddler preferences | ❌ The cost may be prohibitive for those not dedicated to competitive racing |
404 V3 Carbon Fiber Race Board: Elite Performance Race Board
Carbon Fiber Sheet 3MM Thickness 100X250mm 3K Matte Surface Carbon Fiber... -- $21.49(Amazon)
404 JUMP 14' PRO CARBON 14' x 25" -- $3499(West Coast Paddle Sports)
Why We Picked It
The 404 V3 Carbon Fiber Race Board is a top-tier choice for competitive racers seeking a high-performance edge. Its lightweight and responsive design, crafted from advanced carbon fiber, ensures exceptional speed and tracking on the water. This board is engineered for those who prioritize performance and efficiency in their racing endeavors, making it a standout option in the competitive racing scene.
Who It's For
Ideal for experienced paddlers and competitive racers who are looking for a board that offers speed and precision. The 404 V3 is best suited for those who have a good sense of balance and are comfortable handling a narrower board in the pursuit of top performance. It may not be the best fit for beginners or those who require a more stable platform for leisure paddling.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and responsive design | ❌ Narrow shape may challenge stability for some |
| ✅ Excellent tracking and speed | ❌ May require advanced paddling skills |
| ✅ Constructed from high-quality carbon fiber for durability | ❌ Higher price point due to premium construction |
SIC Maui RS (Rocket Ship) Series: Best All-Around Race Board
12’6 SIC Maui RS “Rocket Ship” x 23.5” Racing Touring Stand up paddle bo... -- $1500(Jersey Paddle)
Mike's Paddle - 2024 Sic Maui RS (Rocket SHIP) 14' x 24.5" DF -- $2499.95(Mike's Paddle)
RS AIR-GLIDE 14.0 x 28.0 (CFL) by SIC Maui | Liquid Surf and Sail -- $1449.95(Liquid Surf and Sail)
Sic Maui RS 14.0' x 24.5" SF -- $2999.95(The Kayak Centre - Wickford)
RS AIR-GLIDE 14.0 x 26.0 (CFL) by SIC Maui | Liquid Surf and Sail -- $1399.95(Liquid Surf and Sail)
Mike's Paddle - 2024 Sic Maui RS (Rocket SHIP) 14' x 26" DF -- $2499.95(Mike's Paddle)
Why We Picked It
The SIC Maui RS (Rocket Ship) Series stands out for its versatile design, which combines a fast displacement hull with the ability to perform well in various water conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for paddlers looking for a competitive edge in races without being limited to flatwater performance. Its construction and design are tailored for speed and efficiency, ensuring that paddlers can enjoy a top-tier racing experience.
Who It's For
The SIC Maui RS Series is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers who are looking to participate in races or simply want a high-performance board for touring. It's ideal for those who value a board that can handle choppy conditions and maintain speed, but it may not be the first choice for beginners or those exclusively paddling in flat, calm waters.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Fast displacement hull design for quick acceleration and maintaining speed | ❌ May not be the absolute fastest board in flat, calm water conditions |
| ✅ Versatile performance in a variety of water conditions, from choppy to calm | ❌ Premium pricing may be a barrier for some buyers |
| ✅ High-quality construction and materials for durability and longevity | ❌ Specific dimensions may not be suitable for all skill levels or body types |
Naish Maliko Carbon: Best Performance SUP for Racing and Touring
2024 Naish Maliko Carbon 140 X23 -- $2699(Boardsports California)
Naish 2024 Maliko Carbon X26 -- $2699(Naish)
Naish | S26 Maliko Inflatable Fusion Carbon Sup -- $1054.95(! OutdoorXL.com)
2022 Naish | S26 Maliko 14' Carbon | Sup -- $2157(Naish)
Naish S26 Maliko Inflatable Fusion Carbon Light 14'0 Width 25 -- $545(California Kiteboarding)
2024 Maliko Carbon, X23 by Naish | Liquid Surf and Sail -- $2699(Liquid Surf and Sail)
Why We Picked It
The Naish Maliko Carbon series is a premium range of paddleboards designed for enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance in downwind races and long-distance touring. With its advanced carbon construction, the Maliko offers a superb blend of speed, glide, and stability, making it a formidable choice for serious paddlers looking to elevate their experience on the water.
Who It's For
The Naish Maliko Carbon is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers who prioritize performance in their SUP activities. It's ideal for those who engage in downwind racing or long-distance touring and are looking for a board that can provide an edge in competition or enhance their endurance paddling sessions. However, it may not be the best fit for beginners or those who focus solely on short sprint races due to its design and price point.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional combination of speed, glide, and stability | ❌ Premium price point may not be accessible to all budgets |
| ✅ High-quality carbon construction for durability and performance | ❌ May not be the optimal choice for beginners due to advanced design |
| ✅ Versatile design suitable for downwind races and long-distance touring | ❌ Performance might not be as specialized for short sprint races |
Bark Vapor Ghost Carbon: Premium Racing Paddleboard
Bark x Surftech Commander - Ghost Carbon Prone Paddleboard 14'0" x 20.7"... -- $2310(Jack's Surfboards)
Surftech x BARK - Commander Prone Paddleboard - Ghost Carbon 14'0" x 20.... -- $2310(Surftech)
Why We Picked It
The Bark Vapor Ghost Carbon stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and performance in the world of paddleboarding. Known for its speed and tracking capabilities, this board is a product of the collaboration between Bark and Surftech, ensuring a top-tier experience on the water. Its construction from Ghost Carbon makes it both lightweight and durable, offering an unparalleled paddling experience. The high price point is a reflection of its premium materials and design, aimed at those who seek the best in their water sports equipment.
Who It's For
This paddleboard is best suited for serious paddlers and racers who demand the highest performance and quality. It's an ideal choice for those who are willing to invest in a top-of-the-line board that offers speed, efficiency, and durability. Whether you're competing in races or simply seeking the best equipment for your paddling adventures, the Bark Vapor Ghost Carbon is designed to meet the needs of the most discerning enthusiasts.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional speed and tracking | ❌ High price point reflects its premium quality |
| ✅ Lightweight and durable construction | ❌ May not be suitable for beginners due to its performance-oriented design |
| ✅ Crafted from premium Ghost Carbon material | ❌ Limited accessibility for casual paddlers due to cost |
Sunova Ocean Faast Pro: Best for Ocean Racing Enthusiasts
Sunova - Allwater Faast Pro - 2 Piece - TR3 Tec - Race Paddleboard 14' x... -- $3999(spunkyssurfshop.com)
Sunova - All Around Faast Pro - TR3 Tec - Race Paddleboard 14 x 25.5" -- $3249(spunkyssurfshop.com)
Why We Picked It
The Sunova Ocean Faast Pro is a top-tier paddleboard designed with the competitive racer in mind. Its specialized shape is optimized for handling downwind and choppy conditions, making it a formidable choice for ocean racing events. The board's construction and design are tailored to provide speed, stability, and performance when the waters get rough, ensuring that serious racers have the equipment they need to excel.
Who It's For
This paddleboard is ideal for experienced paddlers who are focused on ocean racing and are looking for a board that can give them an edge in downwind and choppy water conditions. It's not the best fit for those who primarily race on flatwater or for casual paddlers who are not competing in racing events.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Optimized for downwind and choppy conditions | ❌ Not optimized for flatwater racing |
| ✅ High-performance design for serious racers | ❌ Premium price point may not suit all budgets |
| ✅ Durable and advanced TR3 Tec construction | ❌ May be challenging for beginners or non-racers |
Bluefin Sprint Carbon: Advanced Performance Touring SUP
14′ Sprint Carbon Stand Up Paddle Board Kit – Advanced Touring SUP -- $899(Amazon)
Bluefin Cruise Sup Boards | Premium Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board | S... -- $692.23(Amazon)
Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board | 14' Sprint Model | Touring/Race Model... -- $684.59(Amazon)
Bluefin Sup Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board - 6” Thick - Kayak Conversi... -- $838.99(ZenithZephyr)
Bluefin Cruise SUP Boards | Premium Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board | S... -- $899(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Bluefin Sprint Carbon stands out for its advanced design and technology, making it a top choice for paddlers looking to elevate their touring experience. With features like carbon stiffening rails (FRS: Flex Reduction System), AIR DUO dual inflation chamber technology, and a lightweight carbon fiber paddle, it offers unmatched stiffness and performance among inflatable SUPs. Its design ensures a smooth, fast ride with excellent stability and durability, all at a competitive price point.
Who It's For
Ideal for intermediate to advanced paddlers seeking a high-performance touring or racing board that combines the convenience of an inflatable with the performance characteristics of a hardboard. It's perfect for those looking to cover long distances efficiently and with ease, as well as paddlers wanting to transition to racing or enhance their touring experience without breaking the bank.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Advanced construction with FRS and AIR DUO technology for unmatched stiffness and durability. | ❌ May not match the elite performance level of top-tier racing brands. |
| ✅ Lightweight carbon fiber paddle and US Box fin system for optimal performance and ease of use. | ❌ Limited to more experienced paddlers due to its advanced design. |
| ✅ Competitively priced without compromising on speed, stability, or quality. | ❌ Some users may prefer the traditional feel of a hardboard for racing. |
Red Paddle Co Elite Race: Top Inflatable Race Board
2023 Red Paddle Co 12'6" x 28" Elite Inflatable SUP Paddle Board -- $1699(Amazon)
Red Paddle Co 14'0 Elite MSL Inflatable Sup | Sup -- $1374.95(! OutdoorXL.com)
Red Paddle Co 14' x 27" Elite Inflatable Sup 2023/2024 -- $1799(Pumped Up SUP)
Why We Picked It
The Red Paddle Co Elite Race stands out as an exceptional choice for paddleboard racers seeking both performance and convenience. Its innovative design combines the portability of an inflatable board with the speed and rigidity typically found in hard boards. This board is equipped with exclusive, lightweight, and durable MSL material, ensuring a high-quality paddling experience. The meticulous 72-hour construction process and the ability to withstand high pressure make this board uniquely rigid for an inflatable SUP, offering competitive racers an unparalleled advantage.
Who It's For
Ideal for competitive racers and enthusiasts who prioritize speed, rigidity, and portability. The Red Paddle Co Elite Race is perfect for those who face storage and transportation challenges but refuse to compromise on performance. Its design caters to both seasoned racers and ambitious beginners aiming to elevate their racing experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exclusive, lightweight, and durable MSL material for superior performance | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard inflatable SUPs |
| ✅ High pressure construction allows for a more rigid board, enhancing speed and control | ❌ May still lag slightly behind hard boards in terms of ultimate speed and performance in racing conditions |
| ✅ Comes with premium standard accessories including a high-pressure Titan 2 Pump and ATB Transformer Wheeled Carry Bag for convenience | ❌ Requires more effort to reach optimal rigidity with manual inflation |
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy paddling!