A Look at the Top 6 Stand Up Paddle Boards for Rivers

Stand up paddle boarding is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and get in a workout at the same time. In this guide, we are going to highlight 6 of the best stand up paddle boards you can get right now, so you can enjoy Mother Nature tomorrow.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, no doubt you’ve noticed how popular paddleboarding has become in recent years. In fact, the sport has even taken off in the UK and other areas not typically known for a particularly widespread interest in water sports.

The transportable, inflatable technology of paddle boards is one of the things about the athletic trend that people love most. Plus, it’s a suitable sport for peaceful lakes, ocean surfs, and every body of water in between. But, certain stand-up paddle boards may be best, depending on where you intend to use yours the most.

In this post, we’re taking a look at the top paddle boards for rivers.

If you’re considering paddle boarding down rivers, find out which boards are best for you!

Our Top 6 Picks for Stand Up Paddle Boards for Rivers

Are you ready to take your paddle boarding passion to the river?

Take a look at our list below of boards that are designed to take on your favorite Utah river destinations.

1. Best Beginning Paddle Board for Rivers: ISLE Versa Epoxy Standup Paddle Board

This lightweight, versatile, epoxy stand up board is an excellent choice for beginners just starting to navigate rivers with relatively small waves.

At 10.5″ long, a width of 32″ and a volume of 175 liters, the ISLE Versa’s thermal construction makes it a great board for those wishing to transition from one skill level to another.

Plus, the center fin and carrying handle mean you won’t have trouble transporting your board should you have to travel to your river destination.

When you are ready for more serious paddling, you won’t have to exchange your board. Although it’s listed here as a top choice beginner board, it’s equally matched for intermediate boarders as well.

2. Best Buy Paddle Board: The Red Paddle Co. 10’8

The Red Paddle Company’s board measures 4.7″ thick, 34″ wide and packs 296 liters of volume which helps it to maintain superb tracking and balance in the water. It’s also another great choice for beginners due to its’ ease of handling. But, it’s suitable for intermediate and advanced riders too.

A front-loading cargo kit carries all of your paddling gear but doesn’t compromise its’ performance, surprisingly. The kit and the wheeled backpack add to the board’s portability and make it an especially good pick for longer river tours.

You don’t have to spend much time pumping this board up to get a firm ride, even on choppier rivers. And, it’s a good choice for boarders who are transitioning to a more advanced skill level.

No wonder it was voted the Indy Best Buy board by UK’s Independent News.

3. Most Versatile Paddle Board: Ocean Kayak Nalu Hybrid Stand-Up-Sit-On-Top Paddleboard

This board is great for calm lakes or rivers, but does well on small waves, too.

The thing that we really love about the Ocean Kayal Nalu Hybrid is that riders can choose to use as either a traditional stand-up paddle board, or they can sit on top if preferred. This feature earns it the top spot for versatility.

Ocean Kayak Nalu-Stand Up Paddle Boarding

It has built-in bungee cords, so you get extra storage room for your gear in the back. And, it’s bow is designed to cut through waves, so you can take it on peaceful or more moderately rough river rides.

It measures 11 feet long and has a flat bottom which makes for a comfortable standing position.

4. Best Looking Board: CRAZZIE Stand Up Paddle Board in Real Bamboo Wood

Obviously, when you take this CRAZZIE Bamboo Wood Paddle Board down any river, you’re going to turn heads. This beautiful board measures 10.5 feet long and 33 inches wide and weighs about 27 pounds.

Its lightweight wood makes for a stiff, but easy to handle ride for beginner to intermediate river waves.

The board also comes in a longer version, which tends to be best for Yoga enthusiasts. If you’re paddling down a river, you probably will want to stick to the shorter board, unless you’re not expecting to encounter any potentially rough waves.

5. Best Paddle Board for Kids: 8’4 BIC SPORT Dura-Tec Original Paddle Board

The 8’4 BIC SPORT Dura-Tec Paddle Board is a great choice for kids.

Not only does it come in a variety of cool colors, it has extra safety features such as an integrated deck pad that provides a more stable ride. In addition, its’ features also include a 10″ dolphin fin, plus combined leash plug and a deck rig anchor.

8’4 BIC SPORT Dura-Tec Original Paddle Board

Kids will feel secure on this board, even if they just starting out. And, parents will breathe a little easier knowing they’ve chosen a board with added security features for their little paddlers.

6. Best All Around River Paddle Board: The Aleka by Surftech Bark

Surftech Bark’s Aleka Paddle Board is a perfect match for all types of rivers and practically any body of water.

Its 29″ width makes it quick and easy to zip across river channels. Although, it’s probably best suited for intermediate or advanced skill levels.

It also has unmatched durability, is lightweight, and combines the right amount of steadiness and glide to make your ride as enjoyable as possible.

It also comes in two different sizes, depending on your preference and needs. The shorter version cuts the cost by over a hundred bucks, and can still accommodate most river riders.

Want to Try Before You Buy?

If you are new to paddle surfing or want to try out a couple of great boards, we can help.

We rent a variety of stand up paddle boards along the banks of some of Utah’s most vibrant rivers, such as Highland Pond, Utah Lake, and the Jordanelle Reservoir.

Contact us today to plan your next stand up paddling river adventure!