Southern Style Cooking: (Inflatable) Paddleboards Are Better Than Ever Before

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

(Inflatable) Paddleboards Are Better Than Ever Before

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(Inflatable) Paddleboards Are Better Than Ever Before

Many things changed for me when I moved to the West Coast almost a decade ago. I got soft about cold weather. My fondness for avocado toast grew. I became pretentious about produce. And I discovered paddleboarding.

As someone who has been described frequently by friends and family as "intense," paddleboarding has been a welcome approach to being outside. It's genuinely a mindful and meditative activity (I know, the West Coast is coming out again).

Before I lose you, hear me out. Inflatable paddleboards are a game-changer. Many traditional paddleboarders will advocate for the rigidity of hard boards. And I agree. But inflatable paddleboards have progressed and made the sport more accessible—they're less expensive, pack down smaller, and are lighter.

I've been testing paddleboards for the past few years near my home in Ventura County, California, and in mountain rivers and lakes. These are some of my favorites:

Atoll 11-Foot SUP: This board is a straight-up river-runner and lake cruiser. I've been testing and watching others try it for a couple of years now and can confidently say it rips. It inflates quickly, can run rapids, be a base for fly fishing, and pack down easily. Plus, it's fairly lightweight.
BOTE HD Aero SUP: A stable board is a good board. Especially for beginners. And this one is stable. For any beginners, children, or people just looking for a good float, this is a solid board to get as a starter.
BOTE Rackham Inflatable SUP: For the ultra-newbies, greenhorns, or those looking for a duo paddleboard/kayak duo, this is the board. You'd have to try very hard to tip this SUP. It'd be good for any expeditions, fishing missions, or taking kids or dogs out for a ride.

Welcome to the golden age of paddleboarding, my friends! It's a great time to get into the sport and invest in a new recreational activity.

	Nathan Allen Outdoor Gear Editor

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