Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (2024)

If you live near the water, stand-up paddle boarding (known by the acronym SUP), is a very fun hobby to get into. As you might expect, there are quite a few different brands of paddle boards; one such brand is Connelly, which you might recognize from making water skis. But are Connelly’s any good?

Connelly SUPs are among the consistently highest rated paddleboards on the market. Connelly has been in the water sports industry since 1965, and they’re a leader in manufacturing not only paddleboards but also water skis, tubes, and wakeboards.

You can’t go wrong with picking up a Connelly paddle board. While they may be more expensive than similar SUPs on the market, they’re well made, have plenty of nice features, and are stylish and attractive. Keep reading to find out all about SUPs in general, what makes Connelly boards so good, and the different types of boards on the market.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good?

Asking whether Connelly makes good paddle boards is like asking if Nike makes good shoes or Mercedes makes good cars. Some Connelly boards may tend towards the expensive end of the spectrum of stand-up paddle boards, but you’re getting quality for the price.

This isn’t to say that Connelly boards are the only boards out there, or that all others are inferior. There are plenty of other brands out there that are perfectly good as well, if you find that Connelly boards are too pricey or don’t meet your needs.

Connelly has a number of paddle boards available:

  • hard-top (which are made of epoxy and fiberglass with a foam core)
  • soft-top (which are inflatable)
  • a yoga board so you can do yoga out on the waves.

Connelly boards are also well-known for being beginner-friendly, especially the wider versions that offer increased stability and support. We’re going to get into the various types ofConnelly boards availableas well as offer a guide to buying a good SUP board to suit your needs.

Connelly Boards Reviews

One of the things that Connelly boards are known for are theirexceptional durability (source.)They’re made to be resilient to dents and dings due to their proprietary manufacturing technology, called Thermo Shell. They specialize in making a variety of all-purpose general use boards that are great for beginners.

Another great feature that all Connelly boards has is a dedicated spot for gear using bungee cord tie-downs. Many SUP riders like to take lunch out on the water and find a spot to eat, and since they’re so stable, it’s simple to load up the board with gear and eat right on the board.

Connelly boards are at the higher end of price, especially the hard-top versions, which is probably the most significant drawback of the boards. However, you get what you pay for, and Connelly boards are high-quality construction.

Connelly Hard Top Boards

A hard-top SUP board is typically made of a combination of fiberglass and epoxy around a lightweight foam core. It creates a resilient material that is also buoyant and light enough to carry around by hand. Connelly’s boards are constructed using a technique they call Thermo Shell, which is ding-resistant so your board doesn’t get damaged.

Connelly offers a variety of boards in a variety of sizes for all size people and skill levels. They have five different varieties of hard-top boards, each of which comes in at least two different sizes. Generally speaking, the larger you are in terms of height and weight, the wider and longer of a board you’ll want.

Wider boards are also better for beginners as they’re more stable, while narrow boards are faster and easier to maneuver. But more on that later. Here’s a brief rundown of Connelly’s different hard top boards to choose from.

AquaSportsPlanet is an Amazon Associate. As an Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also maintain affiliate relationships with other companies. Purchases made through affiliate links pay us a commission but do not increase cost to the buyer. For a full list, read our affiliate disclosure statement.

Classic

The Classic comes in two different sizes to fit any user. It’s similar to a surfboard in style and shape, but wider and thicker for increased stability. It’s easy to carry for even the smallest riders and super light as well, and it has a gear tie-down in the front to hold your stuff. It’s perhaps their most versatile board, intended for use in a wide variety of environments.

Rocket

The Rocketis a narrower board designed for speed and maneuverability. It only comes in one size, but its design helps increase efficiency by giving you more glide per stroke of the paddle. There are also two gear tie-down spots to hold your gear.

Echo

The Echois a smaller version of the Classic but it’s more suited for new riders. It only comes in one size so larger riders may not find it suited to their needs.

3D Softy

The Softyis a soft-top board, which means its more user-friendly and significantly cheaper than its hard-top counterparts, but it’s not going to be quite as maneuverable and it won’t perform as well as the epoxy boards Connelly offers.

Connelly SUP Drive System

Connelly was one of the first manufacturers to make an electric drive motor that fits in a paddle board center fin slot. The Connelly SUP Drive Fin System from Amazon is a simpler and cheaper version of the ScubaJet that I wrote about in this post. The Connelly system was created first.

It features 3 forward drive speeds and one reverse, and will top out around 3 mph. You can get 2-4 hours of drive time out of it. It isn’t limited to Connelly boards. It will fit any board with a standard center fin slot, and you can purchase a US fin box adaptor.

Connelly Inflatable Boards

Inflatable boards are easier to store and transport than hard-top or soft-top boards; you won’t need a huge devoted space for it and you won’t have to install roof-racks on your car to move it. All of Connelly’s inflatables include a kit that has a pump as well as a patch kit in the unlikely event they get a hole in them (which is unlikely due to their quality construction).

Drifter (Amazon)

At 10’, this compact board is one of the lightest iSUPs on the market at 16 pounds. Easily carried along on hikes to remote water spots, it is also easy to use in tight spots on small creeks and streams. It ships with a 3-piece paddle, carrying bag, pump, patch kit and leash. It’s also one of the lesser expensive boards from Connelly. Good for riders up to 250 pounds, it’s definitely a good option for hikers who want to have a little fun in the water while away from the main camp.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (1)

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Tahoe (Amazon)

The Tahoeis one of Connelly’s all-purpose inflatable SUPs (ISUP), suitable for riders of a variety of sizes and skill levels. It’s also adaptable for a wide variety of water types, so whether you’re on a calm lake or riding the waves out on the bay, you’ll be all set. It comes in two different sizes. It also includes the ISUP kit which has a bag, repair kit, and pump.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (2)

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Dakota (Amazon)

The Dakota’s claim to fame is its ultra-lightweight design, weighing in at just 18 lbs when inflated. It’s got a little less weight capacity than the Tahoe and it only comes in one size, so it may not be suitable for larger riders.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (3)

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Dorado (The House Gear)

The Doradois another lightweight, all-purpose ISUP that’s perfect for on-the-go adventures. It’s good for smaller riders, and again, it’ll handle a variety of water environments with stability and easy maneuverability.

Connelly Nava Yoga (Amazon)

Connelly also offers a paddle board specifically designed for on-the-water yoga. TheNava board is an inflatable board with a rectangular design for increased stability during even the most difficult yoga poses. It is one of Carlo’s top paddle boards for yoga in his post. You probably won’t be speeding over any waves with this board but if you’ll be able to find enlightenment out on the water using this great board.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (4)

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Closing Thoughts

There’s a reason Connelly is known as a leader in both the SUP community as well as the water sports field in general. They make quality boards with a variety of great designs that are perfect for beginner or experienced SUP riders. Connelly most certainly makes good boards, and choosing an inflatable or hard-top Connelly board is a great way to start having adventures.

Paddleboard Comparison Shopping

iRocker paddle board reviews and general info.

Bluefin paddle board reviews and general info.

The right inexpensive board might be a good way to get started.

AquaSportsPlanet is an Amazon Associate. As an Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also maintain affiliate relationships with other companies. Purchases made through affiliate links pay us a commission but do not increase cost to the buyer. For a full list, read our affiliate disclosure statement.

Are Connelly Paddle Boards Good? (2024)

FAQs

Is Connelly a good SUP brand? ›

Connelly SUPs are among the consistently highest rated paddleboards on the market. Connelly has been in the water sports industry since 1965, and they're a leader in manufacturing not only paddleboards but also water skis, tubes, and wakeboards. You can't go wrong with picking up a Connelly paddle board.

What is the most stable paddle board for beginners? ›

Best Beginner SUPs
  1. 1 – iROCKER Nautical 10'6.
  2. 2 – Isle Pioneer.
  3. 3 – Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126.
  4. 4 – Gili Air 10'6/11'6.
  5. 5 – iRocker Cruiser Ultra.
  6. 6 – Gili Meno 10'6/11'6.
  7. 7 – BOTE Breeze Aero 10'8.
  8. 8 – Sea Gods Skylla.
Jan 23, 2023

Are cheap paddle boards worth it? ›

Whilst cheap paddle boards may appear attractive at first, the low quality materials and construction mean that not only is their performance far inferior to their more expensive counterparts but they are also far less durable.

What is the most stable paddle board? ›

An inflatable paddle board, inflated to its recommended pressure, will typically be more stable than a hard board of the same dimensions.

How much is a good quality paddle board? ›

A good inflatable paddle board from a reputable brand will generally cost between $900 for a solidly performing all-around board with a durable construction to $1200 and up for higher-end boards with additional material layering and unique design features for specialty uses.

What length paddle board is best? ›

Keep in mind your intended use when deciding what length SUP to buy:
  • Short boards (under 10') are great for surfing and/or kids. ...
  • Medium boards (10' to 12') are ideal for all-around use and for SUP yoga. ...
  • Long boards (12'6” and above) are great for fast paddling and long-distance touring.

Is higher PSI better for SUP? ›

PSI for inflatable SUP's can vary from 10 – 20 PSI. Basically the higher the PSI number, the harder the board is going to be. Making sure your SUP is inflated to the proper air pressure will ensure: that it performs well.

Are 3 fins better than 1 on a paddle board? ›

The main con to a 1 fin SUP is that they can sometimes feel unstable, balance and control are a bit more reliant on the rider. A 3-fin setup, also called a thruster, promotes straight tracking on flatwater and offers good control in the surf.

How do I stop my legs from shaking when I paddle board? ›

It's just SUP. Gently wiggle your toes if you have shaky legs. It's a perfectly normal fight or flight instinct kicking in. Getting up and down a few times may help.

What wind speed is not good for paddle boarding? ›

Most paddling safety experts recommend staying off the water in winds above 15 mph, or 10-12 mph if you're a beginner. Winds below 10 mph are more like breezes, and not much to worry about.

What's the difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards? ›

One of the biggest differences between cheap and expensive paddleboards is built quality. What is this? While cheaper boards are usually made with fewer layers, more expensive ones are double-layer or even double-layer fusion boards. Those paddleboards are stiffer, provide more stability and have a better durability.

Is a 3 piece or 2 piece paddle better? ›

For 90% of casual to enthusiast paddlers, a 3-piece paddle is the best solution.

Does paddle boarding burn belly fat? ›

Paddle boarding does burn belly fat. This is because you're recruiting large muscles such as your back and arms to paddle. The larger the muscle group you recruit, the more muscular strength you build and the more calories you burn, which can help burn body fat (including belly fat).

Are solid paddle boards more stable than inflatable? ›

Are Inflatable Paddle Boards More Stable? The stability of an inflatable paddle board depends largely on the thickness of the design. A well-made 5 inch thick inflatable paddle board will generally be more stable than a hard board because of the difference in rail construction.

Are heavier paddle boards more stable? ›

Thickness affects a paddle board very similarly to width and length. The thicker the board, the more volume and capacity it can support. As such, thicker paddle boards are more stable.

Is Solid SUP better than inflatable? ›

Made of fibre glass, they're of better quality than inflatables and are generally more durable (when properly cared for). Compared to inflatable SUPs, hard SUPs are more stable because they have a larger surface area on the water.

What is the best value paddle board? ›

Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards on the Cheap (2023)
  • #0 Red Paddle Co or Bluefin.
  • #1 Roc Scout 10′ iSUP.
  • #2 SereneLife Thunder Wave 10' iSUP.
  • #3 Retrospec Weekender 10′ iSUP.
  • #4 FunWater Tiki 10'6 iSUP.
  • #5 Aqua Spirit Barracuda 10'6 iSUP.
  • #6 Runwave 11′ iSUP.
  • #7 Highpi 10'6 iSUP.

Is it worth buying your own paddle board? ›

A cheap inflatable SUP board CAN be worth buying as it can serve the purpose and allow you to enjoy the hobby as a beginner IF you chose the right seller and the right iSUP board in accordance to your needs and possibilities. There are some really good budget iSUP boards out there.

How long will a SUP last? ›

However, if you look after your iSUP by cleaning it off with fresh water after every use, drying it, storing it in a dry and cool place and making necessary repairs quickly, then you can expect your board to last up to 10 years or even more.

What size paddle board do I need for my height and weight? ›

For beginners, multiply your body weight (in pounds) by 1.1 to 1.4 to find the perfect volume range for your first board. For example: If you weigh 175 lbs and you plan on carrying 10 lbs of gear, your total weight is 185 lbs. Your ideal paddle board would have a volume of at least 185L to 258L.

Can 2 people go on a 10 foot paddle board? ›

Paddle board size and shape

I would not recommend a board under 11′ long for two persons, so you can be sure you both have enough space to move and not bump into each other. The shape is important for the purpose you have together on the board.

What is the difference between a SUP and a paddle board? ›

A SUP Needs a Paddle

Traditional surfers paddle out to the wave breaks lying on their boards with their hands pushing through the water in a swimming-like movement. Paddle boards, on the other hand, require a paddle that the rider uses to propel them through the water while standing on their board.

Is aluminum or fiberglass paddle better? ›

Blade & Shaft Material

Plastic and aluminum paddles are the least expensive, heaviest and most likely to need replacing. Fiberglass and carbon provide a lighter, more durable paddle with optimum performance, but will also come at a higher price.

Is a longer paddle board better for beginners? ›

The longer the paddle board is the faster it will be. The trade-off for stand up paddle boards is that the longer they are the harder they are to turn or maneuver. For a paddle boarding beginner, I would look for a board that is 10'6" in length. That will give you a perfect balance between speed and maneuverability.

Should I deflate my SUP after each use? ›

You can leave your inflatable paddle board inflated indefinitely, as long as you store your board correctly. If you release air, keep your board out of sunlight, and in a cool, dry place, your inflatable board can remain inflated, and little to no damage will come to it.

Can I leave my SUP inflated overnight? ›

LEAVING THE BOARD INFLATED

The answer is yes you can BUT please store it away from the elements, in a cool area out of direct sunlight and ideally off the ground. All inflatable paddle boards will lose some air pressure over time if the board is left inflated day after day.

Why does my paddle board sink in the middle? ›

With too little air deflection is exacerbated and your board will resemble a floating banana. Your SUP's 'co*ckpit' area will sink below the water line and the nose will raise and begin pushing water. Around the tail fins will be elevated and not engage correctly.

Is 15 psi good for a paddle board? ›

The best inflatable stand-up paddle board PSI level is anywhere from 10 to 15. Most people inflate their board to about 10 to 12 PSI. A higher PSI will help if you are riding in cold or choppy water. If you need a bit more stability, try increasing the PSI of your board as well.

Should I use medium or large fins? ›

a bigger fin will have more hold and more control in bigger surf. A smaller fin will have a more loose feeling and be more forgiving. However in bigger surf, will lack drive and control. A medium sized fin will provide optimum performance all-around surf.

Are bigger fins better for bigger waves? ›

A larger fin will have more hold and provide more control in bigger surf, where a smaller fin will be loose and somewhat more forgiving, but lack the drive and control needed in bigger surf. Difference between the FCS II Filipe Toledo Large template and the Filipe Toledo Medium.

What are the four golden rules of getting on your SUP? ›

4 golden rules for stand up paddle boarding
  • Plant your blade fully in the water before you start to pull.
  • Always assume ready position when paddling.
  • Use your core muscles for all your strokes.
  • Keep your board as quiet as possible.

What are 3 important paddle boarding tips? ›

23 Top Tips to Get You Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Quickly
  • Know how to swim. ...
  • Practice on solid ground before you hit the water. ...
  • Find a good spot to launch. ...
  • Start on your knees. ...
  • Pop to your feet in one fluid motion. ...
  • Keep a wide stance. ...
  • Know where to stand on the board. ...
  • Know how to hold the paddle.
Jul 23, 2020

Is it common to fall off paddle board? ›

No matter how hard you try to stay balanced on your paddle board, you're going to fall into the water at some point. Even the most experienced paddlers take the plunge from time to time. So, if you're feeling wobbly, don't worry about it and remember, SUP is a watersport, so it's OK to get wet.

Should I wear water shoes while paddle boarding? ›

Protect Your Toes

Make sure your footwear has plenty of traction so you can easily get on and off your SUP. You can wear neoprene shoes or water sport shoes, but never go barefoot. The rocks beneath the surface of the rough waters could hurt exposed feet.

Should you bend your knees when paddle boarding? ›

While you paddle, stay engaged through your core. Keep your knees slightly bent and your feet in a shoulder-width stance.

What should you not do when paddle boarding? ›

Okay so next I'm gonna go over each mistake and show you how to do it correctly.
  1. Not Wearing A Leash.
  2. Going Out In The Wrong Conditions. ...
  3. Not Controlling Their Board. ...
  4. Not Being Centered On The Board. ...
  5. Failing to Get Back Onto the Board. ...
  6. Looking Down For Balance. ...
  7. Falling Onto The Board. ...
  8. Paddling Too Far Off the Board. ...
Jun 3, 2019

What is the best SUP for kids? ›

Best Paddleboard for Kids Comparison Chart
section-hdTop-Rated Paddleboards for Kids
Gili Cuda 9' / 8'Gili Cuda 9' / 8' Save130 lbs
Thurso Prodigy Jr.Thurso Prodigy Jr. Save80 lbs
Bluefin Cruise Jr.Bluefin Cruise Jr. Save160 lbs
Bote Flow AeroBote Flow Aero Save100 lbs
5 more rows
Jan 3, 2023

How do I know which SUP to buy? ›

To find the right stand up paddle board for you, consider how you're going to use it, how it will fit your body and how you want it to handle in the water. The key decision points will be the shape of the board, getting the correct volume and capacity, as well as the proper length, width and thickness.

Is iRocker a good brand of SUP? ›

If you are looking for a solid all around sup, then stepping up in quality to the iRocker All Around is a great option. It's a great board for anyone who: Wants a well-built, solid inflatable SUP that's great for beginners and intermediate paddlers alike in a variety of water conditions.

Is it easy to fall off a SUP? ›

One question I get a lot from new stand-up paddle boarders is "What happens if I fall off?" The truth of the matter is if you have properly-sized equipment and you have good technique, your chances of falling are very unlikely, unless you're pushing your limits in rough conditions.

Why kids paddle board keeps losing air? ›

Loose Valve

The valve can sometimes become loose and need to be tightened. If your valve is loose you may notice you are leaking air around the the outside of the valve. This issue shouldn't be a big deal and is easily fixable. Every board comes with a repair kit and in that repair kit you will find a valve tightener.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards? ›

One of the biggest differences between cheap and expensive paddleboards is built quality. What is this? While cheaper boards are usually made with fewer layers, more expensive ones are double-layer or even double-layer fusion boards. Those paddleboards are stiffer, provide more stability and have a better durability.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kareem Mueller DO

Last Updated:

Views: 6015

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kareem Mueller DO

Birthday: 1997-01-04

Address: Apt. 156 12935 Runolfsdottir Mission, Greenfort, MN 74384-6749

Phone: +16704982844747

Job: Corporate Administration Planner

Hobby: Mountain biking, Jewelry making, Stone skipping, Lacemaking, Knife making, Scrapbooking, Letterboxing

Introduction: My name is Kareem Mueller DO, I am a vivacious, super, thoughtful, excited, handsome, beautiful, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.