Inflatable SUP FAQs

Paddle boarding is an excellent outdoor activity. The reason it has gained so much traction in recent years is likely due to its equal accessibility from beginners to advanced paddlers. Anyone can hop on a stand up paddle board and enjoy the great outdoors.

In this article, we're taking aim at the things you want to know about the inflatable variety of stand up paddle boards. An inflatable SUP is a worthy alternative to a solid board. The main reason it has caught on is due to its portability. Stand up paddle boards are big and bulky, and difficult to lug around without a big car or a roof rack. And the main advantage is that they don't sacrifice on performance!

Below are questions that you have asked about these popular boards. Hopefully these FAQs will answer your questions and have you hitting the water in no time.

Contents

• Are THURSO SURF inflatable SUPs durable?
• What type of maintenance is required for an inflatable SUP?
• How stiff is an inflatable paddle board?
• How difficult is it to pump up an inflatable paddle board?
• What's the recommended air pressure for THURSO SURF boards?
• Where is the best place to store an inflatable SUP?
• Can I fly on an airplane with an inflatable paddle board?
• Are THURSO SURF inflatable paddle boards covered by a warranty?
• Is there anything else that I need to buy to start paddling?
• Are the fins removable?
• Can I bring my dog on a THURSO SURF inflatable SUP?
• How does an inflatable paddle board compare with a hard board?
• Is This Product Suitable For Beginners?
• Can I Do SUP Yoga On This?
• What is the Weight Capacity?
• Do You Offer An Adjustable Paddle?

Are THURSO SURF inflatable SUPs durable?

Incredibly! Our inflatable paddle boards are made from bombproof, military-grade materials and they're nearly indestructible. Unlike hard paddle boards that can be dinged, cracked, and damaged, our iSUPs are dingproof and built to withstand whatever you can throw at them.

Perhaps the main concern most have about our paddleboards is their durability, which is an understandable consideration when looking at inflatable products in general. But this inflatable board is one that can stand up to any bumps in the course of even an intense paddleboarding session.

What type of maintenance is required for an inflatable SUP?

Inflatable paddle boards are extremely low-maintenance. First of all, make sure that your board isn't left out inflated in the hot sun for long periods of time as this can over-pressurize and damage your iSUP.

After paddling, it's always best to rinse off your board with fresh water and dry it before rolling it up for storage in a backpack or other bag. Stubborn dirt can be removed with some mild dishwashing detergent and a little scrubbing. Last but not least, remember to rinse your SUP paddle and other accessories well before putting them away, especially when you've been paddling in saltwater.

How stiff is an inflatable paddle board?

When fully inflated to the recommended 12-15 psi, an inflatable SUP is incredibly rigid and should feel very similar to a hard paddle board. Well-built iSUPs are so stiff that you can literally set them on two chairs and they'll support a full grown adult standing in the middle of the board.

How difficult is it to pump up an inflatable paddle board?

Not difficult at all. Our iSUP pump is a dual-action pump that allows you to "switch gears" when the pumping gets increasingly difficult. While pumping your board up will give you some exercise, it's something anyone can do in 10 minutes or so.

If you aren't in the mood for a hand pump, we offer an electric pump as well.

What's the recommended air pressure for THURSO SURF boards?

We recommend pumping your board up to 12-15 psi. Our dual-action pump comes with an easy-to-read, built-in pressure gauge which will tell you exactly how much air pressure is in your board.

Where is the best place to store an inflatable SUP?

Storing an inflatable SUP is very easy to do, due to the fact that you can roll them up into an extremely small footprint. After rinsing and drying your iSUP, just roll it up, stash it away neatly in the included backpack, and throw under your bed or in a closet. If you are going to be storing your SUP in a garage or outdoor storage shed, it's a good idea to throw it in an airtight plastic container to keep any curious critters out.

Many see this as the main advantage to owning an inflatable SUP. The reality is that with a solid board, storing it becomes a chore, especially if you don't have the indoor or outdoor space for it. These are quite large after all!

RELATED: 10 Tips for Inflatable SUP Storage

Can I fly on an airplane with an inflatable paddle board?

Absolutely! Deflated and packed into the included backpack, your iSUP can be checked with the rest of your luggage and taken anywhere in the world. Worried about the airline damaging your backpack in-flight? Just wrap your iSUP backpack up with a plastic tarp and tie securely with a rope - problem solved!

Compared to the extra luggage costs that would come along with flying with a full-sized, non-inflatable SUP, you are talking about saving hundreds of dollars. So if you're going on a SUP trip, an inflatable might just become your best friend.

Are THURSO SURF inflatable paddle boards covered by a warranty?

Absolutely. All of our boards come with a rock-solid, 2-year warranty which covers any and all manufacturing defects. We stand behind all of the gear we make, and if you have a problem, we will refund or replace your board. No need to worry here.

Is there anything else that I need to buy to start paddling?

All THURSO SURF iSUPs include a paddle, SUP leash, backpack, pump, and iSUP repair kit. The only thing not included that we'd highly recommend picking up is a lifejacket or PFD (personal flotation device).

Are the fins removable?

Yes, all of our fins are removable and feature our super convenient and easy-to-use Quick Lock toolless fin system. The board package includes much of what you need to make adjustments to your exact specifications.

Can I bring my dog on a THURSO SURF inflatable SUP?

Of course! Our boards are built with dog owners in mind so you don't have to worry about your dog's nails damaging the deck of your SUP. With that said, we always recommend trimming your pup's nails before going for a paddle. And of course, make sure it's an activity your dog enjoys!

How does an inflatable paddle board compare with a hard board?

While rigid SUPs still have a slight edge performance-wise, inflatable paddle boards continue to narrow that gap as new construction technologies are introduced. When it comes to convenience, portability, durability, and versatility, inflatable SUPs are the strong winner. We believe that for the vast majority of paddlers, an inflatable paddle board is clearly the better choice.

RELATED: Inflatable Paddle Board (iSUP) vs. Hard SUP

Is This Product Suitable For Beginners?

Definitely! As a beginner, you are unlikely to even notice the difference between this and a rigid SUP. In fact, paddleboarding in general is an excellent sport for beginners. So long as you can master the balance, you can be up and going in minutes.

Some tips for beginners include checking the weather, wearing the proper gear, taking a lesson, and wearing sunscreen. The most important part is finding a suitable body of water. Lakes are best for this. Lakes are typically flat, except on windy days. Oceans and rivers are also acceptable, but be sure to watch out for big waves, strong currents, and fast water.

Can I Do SUP Yoga On This?

For sure! Our stand up paddle boards are rigid and strong, and can support any activity that a rigid board can. If you are a dedicated yogi, a stand up paddle board yoga is an excellent alternative. The movement of the water tests your balance even further than normal yoga. This effectively works your stabilizer muscles harder, and gives you a tougher workout overall.

What is the Weight Capacity?

The weight capacity of our boards will vary depending on the length. Typically, it can support 260 lbs on the smaller end, and 330 lbs on the longer end. Be sure to check out our convenient weight charts alongside our product descriptions.

Do You Offer An Adjustable Paddle?

Not only are our paddles adjustable, you can even convert them into a kayak paddle! You can use your inflatable SUP as an inflatable kayak of sorts. The paddles offered in our add-on package are CARBON, which is superior to your typical aluminum paddle.

Thanks for reading! We appreciate all your questions and are dedicated to making sure you have the best experience possible. If you have more questions, feel free to comment below or contact us anytime!