paddler in wetsuit on fiberglass sup

Best Fiberglass Stand Up Paddle Boards Compared

Looking for the Best Fiberglass Paddleboards?

What is a fiberglass stand-up paddleboard? A fiberglass SUP is a paddleboard built around a core of EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam.

EPS foam, originally used in surfboard construction, was later adapted for stand-up paddleboards due to its lightweight yet sturdy properties.

The foam core is then wrapped in layers of fiberglass and epoxy resin, creating a strong, durable board. This construction is why many paddlers refer to them simply as fiberglass paddleboards.

The Benefits of the SUPs Built with Fiberglass

The biggest advantage of fiberglass SUPs is their rigid, solid feel compared to inflatable boards. While there are excellent iSUPs available, they can’t match the firmness of a fiberglass board, and that rigidity directly translates to better performance.

If you prioritize sharp turns and precise maneuvering, like when surfing, a fiberglass board gives you the confidence and control you need underfoot. Often called “glass,” these boards deliver a smooth, fast, and responsive ride.

Fiberglass SUPs were actually the first type of paddleboards, modeled after traditional surfboards, while inflatables are a more recent development.

The extra stiffness also adds buoyancy, making fiberglass boards a great option for heavier paddlers who want stability without sacrificing performance.


top, bottom, and side view of the Adventure All Rounder MX


Features:

  • Versatile all-around design
  • Lengths: 9'8", 10'6", 11'6"
  • Weight: 22.7 lbs., 25 lbs, 28 lbs 
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Nose plug for mounting a GoPro

There’s something truly appealing about a clean, simple paddleboard design. The Adventure Paddleboarding All Rounder, MX doesn’t just look good, it has an excellent personality on the water.

Its wide, generous midsection, balanced outline, and low rocker create exceptional stability, giving riders confidence and keeping the board flat and steady.

Named for its versatility, the All Rounder,  MX is built from Molded Epoxy (MX). It features a medium-density EPS core, layered with five sheets of fiberglass (three on the deck, two on the bottom), and a special epoxy resin reinforced with carbon strands. The result is a firm, stable, and easy-to-use SUP.

The board’s generous size-to-volume ratio and user-friendly shape make it a favorite among paddlers of all skill levels. The submerged, comfortable carry handle makes transporting the board effortless, while the deck traction covers two-thirds of the surface, complete with a back foot kick and soft arch bar to prevent slipping.

If you’re searching for a stylish, high-quality fiberglass paddleboard that’s fun for beginners and intermediates alike, the Adventure Paddleboarding All Rounder – MX is a top choice.

Pros of this Board

  • Concave bottom provides smooth glide in flat water 
  • Great for cruising on lakes and flat water but also has the chops to handle thigh high surf 
  • 3 different color options to choose from

Cons of this option

  • Not the easiest board to transport
top, bottom, and side view of the kraken sup by boardworks


Features:

  • Beginner friendly
  • EPS foam core construction
  • Available in three sizes 9’ 9”, 10’ 3” & 11’
  • Width: 36"
  • All-Around foam paddle board

The BoardWorks Kraken is a striking fiberglass paddleboard built for performance. While it handles flatwater conditions like calm lakes and bays with ease, it’s also designed to tackle rougher waters, including ocean surf and choppy waves.

Its quality comes from a durable EPS foam core laminated with layers of fiberglass, bamboo veneers, eye-catching graphics, and a high-grade paint and polish finish.

Paddlers will enjoy hours on the water thanks to the comfortable honeycomb deck pad and wide, stable platform that makes movement easy and secure.

One feature we love at PaddleboardSurf is a “hidden” carry handle, and the Kraken delivers with an integrated LiftSUP handle that simplifies transport and locking.

The board offers versatile fin setups: single, tri-fin, or quad-fin options. You can cruise with just the center fin or add side fins for improved surfing performance. The center fin is a toolless installation, so you can get on the water faster.

Although the Kraken was named “Best of the Best for Most People” by Outdoor Gear Lab in 2018, it remains an excellent fiberglass paddleboard for anyone seeking versatility across a wide range of water conditions.

Pros of this Board

  • Anyone can use this paddleboard
  • The sharp nose of the board is designed for rough water and maneuverability while riding waves
  • Width of 36 inches

Cons of this option

  • At 47 lbs it is a heavy paddleboard
top, bottom, and side view of the isle glider rigid paddleboard with paddle included


Features:

At Paddleboard Surf, we’re big fans of ISLE paddleboards, and it’s easy to see why. They consistently top our recommendations and sales charts thanks to their blend of quality, thoughtful design, and affordability. The Glider, in particular, stands out with its elegant, timeless look and practical, performance-driven design.

The Glider is a versatile paddleboard suitable for everyone, from beginners just learning the ropes to experienced paddlers and wave enthusiasts seeking some fun on the water.

Built with precision in mind, this board combines a firm, stable ride with excellent maneuverability. Its construction starts with a high-quality EPS foam core, layered with fiberglass resin and a paulownia wood veneer for added stiffness, then finished with another layer of fiberglass resin to lock everything together.

Practicality is also a highlight of the Glider. It features generous bungee storage at the front, and an innovative carry handle that pops up when you need it and sits flush when you don’t, keeping the sleek lines intact.

Comfort and grip are well thought out: the middle of the board has a soft brushed traction pad for most of your paddling, while the rear sports a diamond-grooved pad that offers extra hold during dynamic moves, like catching waves.

Everything required for a great day on the water comes included, an adjustable carbon paddle, a leash, and a center fin that installs or removes without tools.

For those looking for a lightweight, sturdy board capable of handling varied conditions while turning heads with its stylish design, the ISLE Glider is an excellent choice.

Pros of this Board

  • Anyone can use this paddleboard
  • One of ISLE's most popular long standing SUP's because of premium construction and beautiful aesthetics, 
  • Weight is only 25 lbs.

Cons of this option

  • The Glider is a premium board.  Worth the price, but not cheap.
california board company hydra foam sup package with paddle, leash, and fin


Features:

  • Beginner friendly
  • EPS foam core construction
  • Incredible price
  • Length: 10'6"
  • All-Around foam paddle board

The CBC Hydra Foam 10'6" SUP offers outstanding value, making it an ideal choice for beginners or families looking to enjoy paddleboarding together. Unlike inflatable SUPs, rigid boards often come with a higher price tag due to the cost of materials, but CBC has managed to deliver a high-quality board at a reasonable price.

Weighing just 25 pounds, the Hydra Foam is constructed from high-density EPS foam and features a fully waterproof core. Its design allows it to glide effortlessly across the water, making each paddling session smooth and enjoyable. For added versatility, the board includes a camera mount and surf leash right out of the box.

Thanks to its solid build, this SUP provides excellent buoyancy and stability, supporting over 300 pounds, more than most inflatable boards can handle. Whether you’re a larger paddler or interested in tandem use, this board is a reliable and affordable option.

The CBC Hydra Foam 10'6" also comes with a complete set of accessories, making it a ready-to-go package for new and experienced paddlers alike. For anyone looking for a durable, stable, and budget-friendly rigid paddleboard, this CBC model is an excellent choice.

Pros of this Board

  • Anyone can use this paddleboard
  • Comes complete with adjustable SUP paddle, surf leash with neoprene padded ankle strap, and 1 fin
  • Width of 32 inches

Cons of this option

  • Vinyl liner somewhat easy to scratch
bic sport slide foam sup
cut out of bic sport slide foam sup


Features:

  • A serious foam core SUP
  • Soft fin included
  • Everything you need is included: board, fin, adjustable paddle, and leash
  • Smooth rounded tail for easier turning
  • Adjustable paddle included

The BIC Sport Slide stands out from most foam SUPs on the market. While many foam boards are geared toward beginners or beach rentals and come with a lower price tag, this paddleboard takes a different approach.

Though it uses foam construction, the Slide is a premium-quality board built for both flatwater touring and small to medium wave surfing. Its versatility makes it suitable for paddlers seeking more than just a basic ride.

Comfort and grip are key features of this board. The full-length soft EVA foam deck ensures your feet stay secure and cushioned, no matter where you stand.

Foam core construction also offers a major advantage: lighter weight. Measuring about 5 inches thick but tipping the scales at only 25 pounds, the BIC Sport Slide is easy to carry and transport, making it accessible for almost anyone.

This board strikes a near-perfect balance between buoyancy and weight, which is why it’s popular among families. Its stable design gives confidence to paddlers of all ages, making it a joy to take out on the water.

If your goal is simply a budget-friendly foam SUP, there are cheaper options on this list. But for those seeking a higher-quality, lightweight, and versatile foam board, the BIC Sport Slide is an excellent investment.


Pros of this Board

  • Lightweight 
  • Good for just about all conditions from flatwater to surfing small to medium sized ocean waves
  • Stable and easy to control

Cons of this option

  • Due to much higher quality, this is not a cheap board like most foam SUPs.  This board is for more advanced paddlers.
isle soft top sup


Features:

  • Beginner friendly
  • Complete package includes: carbon adjustable paddle, center fin, & leash
  • Extended and lowered standing surface
  • Weight: 28.5 lbs.
  • Composite Soft Technology with textured padding

The Isle Cruiser has held its spot as the best-selling soft top stand-up paddleboard for several years, and it’s easy to see why.

Its popularity comes from a combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design, affordability, and a complete, ready-to-use package that appeals to a wide range of paddlers.

The soft top design makes it incredibly user-friendly, capable of handling bumps and scrapes, and even letting you bring your dog along for the ride. Beneath the soft exterior lies a rigid epoxy core, giving the board solid performance while the textured croc-skin padding provides comfort and grip for all-around versatility.

Transporting the Cruiser is simple thanks to the smartly designed center handle, which pops up when needed and stays flush when not in use. A 6-point bungee system at the front offers plenty of space to secure a dry bag or other gear for longer adventures.

Everything needed to hit the water comes with the board, including an adjustable carbon paddle. The lighter carbon shaft is especially appreciated on longer outings, helping reduce arm fatigue for more enjoyable paddling.

For families or anyone looking for a fully equipped board to keep at a beach or lake house, the Isle Cruiser Soft Top is hard to beat. Its combination of durability, ease of use, and versatility makes it perfect for paddlers of all ages and skill levels.

Pros of this Board

  • Anyone can use this paddleboard
  • Easy to balance which conserves energy
  • Width of 32 inches

Cons of this option

  • If you're a more advanced and aggressive paddler, you probably want something else
wavestorm foam paddleboard


Features:

  • Fun is the main objective of this board
  • One of the easiest to use SUPs you'll find
  • Strong EPS (foam) core
  • Low cost SUP package
  • Adjustable paddle included

The Wavestorm 8ft SUP features a foam core, making it an excellent choice for beginners due to its lightweight design and affordable price.

Foam construction also adds a layer of safety: if the board bumps into someone, it’s much less likely to cause injury compared to a rigid epoxy board, giving new paddlers extra confidence on the water.

This complete SUP package comes ready to use, including a 9-inch removable and adjustable center fin, an adjustable paddle, and a leash, everything needed to start paddling right away.

The internal compression-foam deck pad provides hours of comfort, offering both cushioning and grip. This helps reduce strain on your feet while maintaining excellent traction during your paddle sessions.

Thanks to its combination of durability, affordability, and lightweight design, the Wavestorm 8ft SUP is ideal for a beach or lake house. Its forgiving foam construction makes it easy to loan out to friends and family without worrying about damage, making it a practical and fun addition for everyone to enjoy.


Pros of this Board

  • Lightweight 
  • Good for flatwater conditions on lakes, rivers, and open water
  • Stable and easy to control

Cons of this option

  • Know that this is more of a beginner board.
south bay board co beginner soft top


Features:

  • One of the easiest, user friendly SUPs on the market
  • Nose rocker to prevent unnecessary drag
  • Kayak seat compatible
  • 3 fin setup for better tracking and stability
  • Very stable

If you’re searching for a lightweight, stable SUP that’s easy to get on the water, the South Bay Board Co. Premium Beginner Soft Top is an excellent choice. Getting started is simple, just attach the fins, add water, and you’re ready to paddle.

This board provides outstanding stability and instills confidence, whether you’re navigating waves from passing boats or battling strong winds on a busy day. Its smart design and high-quality construction deliver performance-focused features at a price that’s hard to beat.

Soft top boards are perfect for beginners not only because they’re forgiving to paddle on but also because their material makes transport safer. You won’t have to worry about scratching your car roof or bumping into other gear when loading or unloading.

For those looking for a versatile, all-around paddleboard without the hassle of inflatables or the high cost of rigid boards over $1,000, this SUP is an ideal option.

Thanks to its combination of durable materials, thoughtful engineering, and excellent value, the South Bay Board Co. Premium Beginner Soft Top earns a top spot on Paddleboard Surf’s list of recommended boards.

Pros of this Board

  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • High-quality board for complete package

Cons of this option

  • More expensive than other foam boards, but better quality
california board co. sup set


Features:

  • High Density EPS foam
  • 100-Percent Waterproof Core
  • Surf leash
  • Adjustable SUP paddle

The California Board Company 9ft SUP set is an affordable and beginner-friendly option, perfect for those just starting out. One standout feature is that it comes with padded roof racks included, making it incredibly easy to transport the board to your favorite paddling spots.

This SUP is lightweight and easy to carry, which is a huge advantage over heavier hard epoxy boards. Keep in mind, though, that lighter boards tend to be less stable, while heavier boards offer more stability.

With a weight limit of around 160 lbs, this board is best suited for beginners, kids, or smaller adults. It’s designed primarily for casual fun on the water rather than serious touring or surfing.

Ideal for lakes, calm bays, or just playful sessions on the water, this SUP allows you to enjoy paddling without spending a lot. While it’s not geared toward advanced paddlers or challenging waves, it’s a practical, budget-friendly choice for recreational use and family fun.


Pros of this Board

  • Inexpensive, ready to go SUP package
  • Tri fin system for added stability

Cons of this option

  • Best on flat water conditions, not great in choppy waters

Final Thoughts

Fiberglass stand up boards are fun to ride, the were the first type of paddleboards to be produced. They are ideal for beginners, but more geared to experienced paddlers as they tend to be more expensive SUPs.


The highlighted boards are some of the best you can get, and it will enable you to get to a new level in stand up paddleboard fun.

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