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Looking for the Best Paddleboards for Surfing?
Paddleboarding on a stand-up board (SUP) combines the thrill of surfing with an energizing workout, appealing to newcomers and experienced riders alike.
Picking the right SUP is crucial for maximizing both your performance and enjoyment on the waves.
In this guide, we explore some of the top SUPs for surfing, highlighting their main features, advantages, and potential drawbacks to help you choose wisely.
Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into SUP surfing or an experienced paddler seeking an upgrade, this comprehensive overview aims to enhance every moment you spend on the water.
The Benefits of the Surfing SUPs
If you’re completely new to paddleboard surfing, or you’ve tried it once on vacation and are ready to take it more seriously, this guide is made for you.
We’ve selected five standout paddleboards that we consider top picks for SUP surfing. For each one, we’ll highlight the essential specifications and key features, making it easy to compare and find the right fit.
Of course, there are countless paddleboards out there. If none of these five feel like the perfect match, spending a little extra time researching will help you find a SUP that perfectly suits your preferences and riding style.

Features:
The Tom Carroll Paddle Surf Outer Reef MX Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) is designed for paddlers seeking a versatile board that excels on everything from serene flat water to dynamic wave conditions. Drawing on Tom Carroll’s pioneering hydrodynamic designs, it offers a seamless blend of accessibility and high performance.
Built with robust Molded Epoxy (MX) construction, the Outer Reef MX features a medium-density EPS core reinforced with multiple fiberglass layers for durability and long-lasting strength. Its deep double concave hull and spiral vee tail enhance water flow, providing stability in choppy conditions while remaining highly responsive on the waves.
A relaxed rocker profile allows for smooth paddling and easy wave entry, while beveled rails improve control and precision during turns. The 2+1 fin setup, which includes FCS II GL side fins and a custom 9" TCPS center fin, delivers an optimal mix of speed, maneuverability, and hold.
Available in four sizes ranging from 10'0" to 11'6", the Outer Reef MX suits paddlers of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned SUP surfers.
Whether you’re cruising calm waters or riding surfable waves, the Outer Reef MX offers reliability, versatility, and a performance edge that keeps you in tune with the ocean.
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Features:
The Adventure Paddleboarding Sixty Forty MX SUP is designed for paddlers who want a board that excels on both surf and flatwater. With a thoughtfully balanced 60% surf / 40% flatwater design, it adapts effortlessly to different conditions, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking versatility.
Measuring 10'0" long, 33" wide, and 4¾" thick, the Sixty Forty MX offers 190 liters of volume, providing excellent buoyancy and stability for paddlers up to around 90 kg. Despite its sturdy construction, it stays lightweight and durable thanks to molded epoxy technology. Multiple layers of fiberglass are fused around a medium-density EPS core under high pressure, giving the board strength without unnecessary weight.
The board’s shape is engineered for performance: a gentle displacement hull smooths out choppy waters, a single concave center keeps speed consistent, and a double concave vee tail enhances maneuverability. Its pulled-in tail and curved rails make sharp turns in the surf feel effortless.
Additional practical touches include a cavity carry handle for easy transport, a soft deck pad with arch bar and tail kick for control, and nose plugs for securing gear or even a GoPro.
Whether you’re carving waves or enjoying a relaxed flatwater paddle, the Sixty Forty MX SUP delivers a balanced, fun ride that earns a spot in any paddler’s lineup.
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Features:
The Boardworks Kraken is a versatile stand-up paddleboard (SUP) that blends performance, durability, and style. Available in three lengths—9'9", 10'3", and 11'0", it’s well-suited for beginners taking their first strokes as well as seasoned paddlers seeking a dependable board.
Constructed with EPX-V technology, the Kraken features an EPS foam core wrapped in fiberglass and bamboo veneers, resulting in a lightweight yet sturdy board. Measuring 32 inches wide and 4.75 inches thick, it provides excellent stability, while the gently rockered nose ensures smooth navigation through flat water, choppy conditions, or surf.
A highlight of the Kraken is its adaptable fin system, accommodating single, tri-fin, or quad-fin configurations to match your paddling style. Additional thoughtful features include a LiftSUP carry handle for convenience and a large honeycomb deck pad for comfort and grip during extended sessions.
From calm lakes to ocean swells, the Boardworks Kraken performs with ease across varied conditions. Its combination of stability, maneuverability, and sleek design makes it a favorite for both casual paddlers and dedicated SUP enthusiasts.
For those seeking a reliable, stylish, and adaptable SUP, the Boardworks Kraken is a top contender to consider for your quiver.
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#4. Naish Nalu 10'0"

Features:
The Naish Nalu 10'0" LE is a high-performance, longboard-style stand-up paddleboard (SUP) designed for riders seeking precision, responsiveness, and exceptional nose-riding ability. Its carefully refined foiling design maximizes drive while minimizing effort, making it perfect for paddlers aiming to take their skills to the next level.
Featuring some of the thinnest rails available on a SUP, the Nalu 10'0" LE offers excellent edge control and nimble responsiveness. The ¾-length textured deck pad includes a kick pad and single leash point, ensuring secure footing during sharp turns and maneuvers. It comes standard with a tri-fin setup and also includes quad fin boxes for adaptable configurations in different wave conditions.
With 130 liters of volume and a lightweight 8.8 kg build, this board strikes a perfect balance between stability and agility. It’s ideal for intermediate to advanced paddlers who want a SUP capable of performing on everything from knee-high swells to overhead waves.
Whether you’re executing tight turns or enjoying long, smooth nose rides, the Naish Nalu 10'0" LE delivers a dynamic, responsive, and exhilarating experience. Its combination of refined design, versatility, and high performance makes it a standout choice for paddlers ready to elevate their wave riding.
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#5. Naish Hokua GTW

Features:
The Naish Hokua GTW Custom is a high-performance surf SUP designed for riders who value precision and versatility on the waves. Geared toward intermediate and advanced surfers, this board delivers smooth carving and responsive handling across a variety of surf conditions.
Built with a CNC-cut EPS core and an S-glass bamboo sandwich deck, the Hokua GTW combines lightweight agility with durable strength. Double bamboo reinforcement in the stance area adds extra support where it’s needed most, ensuring the board can withstand demanding sessions.
Its 4+1 fin setup, featuring FCS2 side fins and a US center fin box, allows for multiple configurations, quad, thruster, or single fin, adapting to different surfing styles and wave conditions. This versatile design enhances responsiveness and smooth carving, perfect for riders looking for dynamic performance.
Practical touches include a ledge handle for easy carrying and a grooved, embossed EVA deck pad for secure footing during maneuvers. Available in sizes from 8'6" to 9'6", the Hokua GTW caters to a range of rider weights and preferences, offering a tailored fit for optimal control.
For paddlers aiming to elevate their SUP surfing, the Naish Hokua GTW Custom delivers reliability, adaptability, and performance that makes it a standout choice on the water.
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#6. Naish Mad Dog

Features:
The 2024 Naish Mad Dog is a high-performance surf SUP designed for riders eager to push their limits on the waves. Its surfboard-inspired rocker allows for sharp, powerful turns and exceptional speed, making it ideal for aggressive maneuvers.
Featuring a 4+1 fin setup, two 4.75" FCS front fins and two 4.0" FCS rear fins—the Mad Dog can be configured as a quad, thruster, or single fin, offering adaptability across a variety of wave conditions.
Built with a Sandwich Deck incorporating bamboo in the stance area, the board is both lightweight and durable. The grooved, embossed EVA deck pad provides superior grip and comfort, while the ledge handle makes transport to and from the water effortless.
Available in lengths from 7'6" to 9'5", the Mad Dog accommodates intermediate to expert surfers up to 240 lbs (109 kg).
Whether your goal is refining your technique or tackling more challenging surf, the Naish Mad Dog delivers the speed, responsiveness, and versatility needed to elevate your SUP experience.
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Features:
The Stand on Liquid Hudson 10'6" Inflatable SUP is a versatile, lightweight board built for paddlers seeking a balance of stability and performance. Measuring 10'6" long, 33" wide, and 5" thick, it offers a stable platform suitable for a variety of water conditions.
Weighing just 19 lbs, the Hudson is easy to carry and maneuver, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Constructed using Multi-Layer Fusion (MLF) technology, this SUP provides added rigidity and durability without the extra weight found in traditional double-layer boards. Its tapered nose and 2+1 fin setup ensure smooth gliding and excellent tracking on the water.
The soft Croc-skin textured EVA deck pad offers comfort and secure footing, even on longer paddling sessions.
The Hudson package comes fully equipped with everything you need: a wheeled backpack for easy transport, an adjustable fiberglass paddle, a triple-action dual-chamber pump, a fin, an ankle leash, a dry bag, and a repair kit. With a recommended inflation of 15 psi, the board delivers consistent performance and stability in various conditions.
Whether you’re exploring calm lakes, gentle rivers, or coastal waters, the Hudson 10'6" Inflatable SUP provides a reliable, enjoyable paddling experience. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and comprehensive accessory set make it a versatile addition to any paddleboarder’s gear collection.
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Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that choosing a paddleboard is hard. This is especially true for new paddlers that are just starting in the sport.
With the wide range of boards available on the market, it's best to concentrate on your specific needs and choose a board for your skill level, weight, and riding style.

Bruce Paulson is the owner of PaddleboardSurf and an avid water sports enthusiast with a lifelong passion for all things aquatic. From stand-up paddleboarding and surfing to boating, kayaking, and canoeing, he thrives on the joy of being on the water. As an advocate for water conservation and environmental stewardship, Bruce shares his adventures and insights through his writing, inspiring others to embrace the beauty and excitement of life on the water.

