First and foremost, it's always a good idea to decide between hard and inflatable paddle boards, by thinking about the pros and cons above. Once you've come to a decision on this aspect, you can then refine your search and begin to look for the right size, shape, and finish (look out for funky-coloured models, like our range of red paddle boards, to really stand out from the crowd!). To select the right paddle board length, it's best to opt for a model that's at least 10" taller than the user's height, for optimum balancing. Indeed, due to their inflatable nature, they can easily be deflated and rolled up to allow for storage in even the smallest of spaces, unlike hard paddle boards that can require a significant storage area - especially if they're a full-sized model. Inflatable paddle boards are also much lighter, which typically makes them easier for children to carry to and from the beach. Plus, lightweight paddle boards are likely to be used more frequently, allowing you to get the most for your money. Construction is a key consideration, but usually an easily resolved one. The days of stand-up paddle boards being mainly solid fibreglass or expanded foam have long gone. If you have a campervan or live next to the water, then a solid construction will make sense, as these are almost indestructible and perform much better in the water. But if that's not the case (which it won't be for most), then you'll want one of the new breeds of inflatable SUPs.

Get started with the best in-house brand that watersport has to offer with Decathlon’s very own — Itiwit. Our specialist team is made up of SUP enthusiasts that know stand-up paddling inside-out, including the unique demands paddlers face on the open water, whether it’s for touring, racing or surfing. Explore our range of Paddle board equipment and accessories, designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced SUP levels by watersports experts in Dorset, UK. One final factor to consider is price. As with anything, you get what you pay for, and in our ranking, we've chosen beginner's paddle boards that range from the downright bargainous through to the spendy-but-tempting. Bear in mind that good quality, desirable beginner boards are always popular in the second-hand market, so buying well will pay dividends later in cash as well as enjoyment. How we test the best the best stand-up paddle boards for beginners

Touring Inflatable Paddle Boards

Aside from the board, to SUP, you’ll also need a paddle – it’s in the name, after all. Paddles can be fixed in length, detachable (so they break down into smaller pieces for easier transport) or adjustable, depending on your height or use. You can also adjust the length of the included paddle to suit your height, meaning everyone has a reason to have a go. Easily deflating and folding away in its bag at the end of a session by the sea, this paddle board is a downtempo, relaxing way to get newcomers to surfing used to the waves - or help experienced surfers take a more chill approach to their beach day fitness. READ NEXT: The best inflatable paddle boards The best paddle boards you can buy in 2023 1. Tahe Outdoor Beach Performer: The best hard-body SUP for hitting the beach

Wider boards are more stable but slower in the water; longer boards are less manoeuvrable but more buoyant. The overall shape ranges from bulbous to slim and shark-like. The slimmer and sharkier the board, the more suitable it is for racing and surf-style activities, but these are fairly advanced operations, so choose based on stability rather than flashiness, to begin with. To start out, you'll be looking for either an all-rounder or a touring-style SUP if you plan to travel longer distances, but either should be relatively stable and tractable to learn the basics on. I've used the X100 about six times, and so far it's been pleasingly robust. A few other reviewers have reported eventual leaks, although there is an included repair patch if this does happen, and I think with good care this board should last for a few summers of adventures. Decathlon X100 touring paddle board review: alternatives to consider It's stable, beginner-friendly and comes with everything you need to get on the water, and its neat cargo system means that it's easy to take all your stuff with you too. The only real downside (apart from the steep price) is that while it's a delight in the water, it's a lot less fun to manoeuvre on dry land; however, Red has done all it can to make this as painless as possible. If tandem paddling feels like your thing, this is definitely the way to do it. Generously proportioned, super stable and available at a sensible price, the Two Bare Feet Entradia 10’ 10” is one of the best inflatable SUP boards for beginners and bigger paddlers, but it’s more than just that. It’s tons of fun even for more experienced paddlers, especially if conditions are lumpy or if you have small family members that want to get on board. The kit is really nicely put together too.If you want to go out paddle boarding with a friend but don't want to end up in the inevitable situation where one of you goes faster, and you get split up, the Red 15'0 Tandem MSL Inflatable Paddle Board is a great – if expensive – choice. It's a tandem touring board that's ideal for exploring with a partner while having a relaxed and chatty time, and it means that either of you can take a break if you get tired without the other having to slow down or stop. Storage is another key consideration. Stand-up paddle boards are long and bulky, so think about where you’ll keep it and how you’ll transport it to the water. If you’re short on space, an inflatable paddle board may be a better idea. How do you choose a paddle?