About the board: The NXT from Jimmy Styks is an all around paddle board best for beginner paddlers that want a board that can take a beating. The NXT is a non-inflatable paddle board made from blow-molded ironhide which makes it a rugged board great for recreational paddling with the whole family. The board is very stable, yet very heavy and difficult to carry. This board does come as a package deal with a paddle and leash so at a price point under $450 it’s a great deal. Read more HERE.

Who is this for: If you’re looking for a stable, lightweight, inflatable, all-around board to paddle mid-range distance, and in the low price point of under $500 then the Magma from Aqua Marina is worth a look. This stand up paddle (SUP) board comes in the drop stitch construction which is somewhat fragile and has its ups and downs. With its 30 inch width the board is pretty stable, and has 1.57 lbs per foot weighing only 17 lbs. Its shape makes the Magma an all-around board that can be used by almost anyone and is designed primarily for recreation. Its construction and shape combined best fit this board for short to mid-range distance paddling (3-5 miles). Retailing at $499 the board is among the most affordable paddle boards (inflatable or not) that you can find.

Who is this for: If you’re looking for a stable, inflatable, all-around board to paddle short to mid-range distances and in the low price point of under $500 then the Thrive from Aqua Marina is worth a look. This stand up paddle (SUP) board comes in drop stitch construction which is somewhat fragile and has its positives and negatives. With its 30 inches in width the board is stable, it has 1.75 lbs per foot, weight a total of 17.11 lbs which makes the board very lightweight but can also have an impact on the durability of the board with the construction not being as strong. Its shape makes the Thrive an all around board that can also be fun in the surf and is suited for intermediate paddlers. Its construction and shape combined best fit this board for short to mid-range distance paddling between 3 and 5 miles max. Retailing at $449, the board is among the most affordable ones you can find.

Who is this for: If you’re looking for a board that will be very durable for you to have for yourself, your kids, friends and family that can be beaten up, thrown around and still last for a long time, this is the board for you. The Baja 100 is a perfect board for flat water paddling and touring and can withstand up to 230lbs. The board is made out of a plastic-like construction called RamXs polyethylene and is very stable and very durable however, the board has 4.7 lbs per foot and weighs 47 lbs total, making the board very heavy.  As it's typically the case with low price point boards, the Baja 100 is relatively heavier when compared to boards in higher price point tiers. You’re going to want to look at the mid-to high price-point range boards for lighter and faster boards. Retailing for $399.99, the Baja 100 is among the most affordable boards you can find.