Water sports have gained popularity in recent years, and one of the most popular types of water sport equipment is inflatable paddle boards. Both are excellent choices if you want to get into the water quickly and easily. However, the big difference between the two is the way in which they are manufactured. Hardboards are simply that, solid, hard boards without an outer layer of foam or other materials like carbon to make the board rigid. These can be used for short kayaking and river trips and are great for beginners.
Paddleboard riggings are formed by attaching a thin piece of foam or rubber on each side of the board to create hollows where the paddles are set. The foam is used to increase the surface area of the hollows, which increases the amount of friction and helps to increase the durability of the entire board. Foam also helps to keep the rider dry by providing a cushion. Paddleboard riggings, or any other type of hollowed-out deck pad, add to the durability of the board because of the increased friction.
Rigid hard boards are not nearly as flexible as inflatable paddle boards seen here. Rigid hard boards have an outer plastic layer that helps the board stay rigid, but it does not help to increase the durability of the board. The plastic serves to only make the bottom of the paddle stay dry, while the rest of the board remains wet. This means that the paddle can be used more easily, but it also means that the user is at risk for slipping and falling. Since this can happen at any time, riders are usually more careful on rigid hard boards.
Inflatable stand up paddle boarding has completely taken over the sport. The first inflatable stand up paddle boards were developed in the 1970's. These inflatable stand up boards take any form – from a flat surface to a lip. The stand up paddle board can be made from different materials – such as memory foam. Inflatable stand up boards are easier to use, because the rider is able to stand on the board without having to place his or her feet.
Another great thing about inflatable paddle boards is the ease with which they can be assembled. The rider simply inflatable's paddle feet into the proper drop stitch fabric. Next, the user will need to inflate the core, which is then attached to the foot. Once the core is full, the board is ready to go. Once it is ready, the user simply adds his or her paddle and takes off.
Inflatable boards offer the same agility and performance as other normal board surfaces. They also allow the paddlers to glide easily over rough or icy surfaces. This feature makes them a favorite among the competitive surfers. The added mobility that these boards provide also makes them ideal for sports like snow boarding and cross country skiing.
Paddle boarders know how to jump and where to land perfectly. The problem is, it can be difficult to learn how to move air with your paddleboard. To solve this problem, manufacturers have designed a mechanism that allows the paddler to glide smoothly along the board without using air power. This is done with the help of a manual pump, which is similar to the manual pump used in automobiles. The manual pump helps move air through the mechanism and provides the necessary power that allows the paddleboarder to propel the board.
Inflatable boards are definitely more affordable than most other forms of boarding. Manufacturers often tout their product as being low-cost because inflatable products have a lower unit cost and a low-profile design, which means they can fit into narrower areas. However, the high market price and low durability of inflatable products are the realities that people need to understand. To reduce costs and improve durability of the paddle boards, it is best to check on the manufacturer's reliability and performance records before making the purchase.
