Suggestions for Inflatable SUPs?

[Gaylord]

Hey all...I'm looking for some suggestions on inflatable stand-up paddle boards...we like the portability of the inflatables vs. rigid, and are planning to take them along when anchoring at the beach.

Anyone have any strong feelings about one particular brand? I almost pulled the trigger on purchasing two of the Tower Adventurers...decent reviews and very reasonable price ($600 each w/ paddle & pump)...but I figured I would wait and see what others have to say.

Thanks in advance!

Oh and BTW, an SUP might be the only water sport I get to participate in this year...I tore my achilles playing basketball a month ago. Yep, just in time for the summer.

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[Duncan]

Fast and full recovery!!

[Dandy]

That sounds like a rough injury at a rough time of year.

Regarding SUPs, my wife has a small business that sells/rents SUPs. We have been paddling since 2008 and absolutly love it. She carries BIC, BOGA and Coreban currently, but no inflatables, but we follow the industry very close.

I have heard great things about BICs new inflatable line and BOGA makes great boards but their inflatable is new for 2014. I ride some Slingshot gear and this company if filled with great people and have provided great service. Slingshot always does things just a little different than normal - check out their gear and you will see.

Below are links to BICs and Slingshots inflatable lines:
http://www.bicsup.com/products/infla...sup,3,104.html
http://www.slingshotsports.com/Home/Boards#

Keep in mind that the SUP market is BLOWING UP. Following the industry, I could quickly name off 5-7 companies that are new in 2014. Many of the manufactureres boards come of our the same plants and some out of the same molds, just branded differently.

One tip for the best results for use of an inflatable. After inflating, set it in the water for a while. This will stabalize the air in the board, you will notice that it will "shrink" due to the air compressing due to cooling from the water temp. After this, top off with air. This will keep the board more firm, otherwise if you don't top it off, they tend to flex ALOT since.

Definatly purchase somethign new, there has been alot of progressing in inflatable technology and pumps over the past 2 years.

Good luck and speedy recovery.

[Gaylord]

Thanks for the advice...it would never have occurred to me to let the board get a little "water time" in order to squeeze some more air in. Interesting!