Paddling through the waters, surrounded by beauty – there’s no experience quite as serene as stand-up paddleboarding. But did you know that there’s a world beyond inflatable paddleboards? Yes, we are talking about non-inflatable ones. It’s time to discover top non-inflatable paddleboards and find out what makes them an excellent choice for many boarding enthusiasts.
Non-Inflatable versus Inflatable
Before jumping into non-inflatable paddleboards, it’s essential to understand how they differ from their inflatable counterparts. Non-inflatables, also known as rigid or solid boards, are typically heavier, more stable in the water, and require more storage space. On the other hand, inflatable counterparts narrate a different story – lightweight with easy portability but slightly less in performance.
Diverse Material Choices
The world of non-inflatable boards gives you access to a variety of materials. The most common ones include fiberglass, plastics, epoxy resin over EPS foam core or carbon fiber – each offering a unique balance between weight and durability. So depending on your requirements, you can choose the one that fits best.
Fiberglass Boards
Fiberglass is popular in these paddle boards due to its lightness and toughness. Being mainly made up of woven glass fibres fused with polyester resin or epoxy under high pressure creates a robust board that withstands harsh water conditions.
Epoxy over EPS Foam Core
A widely preferred construction type for non-inflatable boards is Epoxy over EPS Foam Core. This combo creates a board extremely light yet strong enough to face most challenges out at sea. The foam affords buoyancy, and the epoxy lends it robustness, making it an excellent choice for beginners and professionals alike.
Plastic Boards
Plastic paddleboards are a more budget-friendly option. They are highly durable, designed to withstand drops and hits – great for those who are just starting out. However, they are generally heavier and slower in the water when compared to their fiberglass or foam counterparts.
Carbon Fiber Boards
Carbon fiber is seen as the premium choice. It’s ultra-light, extremely strong, and allows more effortless movement in the water. Carbon fiber boards are perfect for competitors or anyone looking for top performance levels despite their relatively higher price point.
Riding Styles: All-around or Specific?
The beauty of non-inflatable paddleboards is that you can find one to suit various riding styles. The all-around boards are versatile and work well in a range of conditions whilst specific boards like surf, touring, or racing boards each excel in their particular domain.
Finding the Perfect Size
The dimensions of your paddleboard play an essential role in how well you’ll be able to balance and maneuver it. As a rule of thumb, bigger boards offer more stability but might be a bit challenging to control. Therefore, deciding the ideal size should ideally be based on your weight, skill level, and intended use.
Looking After Your Board
One reason why non-inflatable boards stand out is their durability. Even so, they still need proper care to increase longevity. This mainly includes appropriate storage away from direct sunlight/ extreme temperature fluctuations and well-timed repairs in case of any damages.
Where to Buy Non-Inflatable Paddle Boards
Finding quality non-inflatable paddle boards is not as challenging as it seems. Many specialty stores and online platforms sell a range of options from reputable board manufacturers. It’s just a matter of finding the one that fits your budget, style, and ability.
Set to Paddle
Now that you’re familiar with non-inflatable paddle boards, step forward into this exciting outdoor venture confidently. Whether you are an experienced paddler looking to upgrade your gear or a beginner on the brink of exploring paddlesports world – solid paddleboards are definitely worth considering.
The Wrap-Up
The realm of non-inflatable paddle boards might seem overwhelming initially. But once explored, has its own flair. By understanding their different materials, sizes and types combined with proper care, they yield unforgettable experiences in terms of performance, durability and adaptability. So next time you hear ‘paddleboard,’ remember it’s not just about inflatables!