I Tested the Best Hard Shell Paddle Board: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Adventure Enthusiast

I have always been drawn to the water, whether it’s the soothing sound of waves or the thrill of riding on top of them. And as someone who loves to explore new places and try new activities, I recently stumbled upon a new way to experience the water: paddleboarding. But not just any type of paddleboarding – I’m talking about hard shell paddle boards. These sturdy and versatile boards have quickly become my go-to for all my aquatic adventures. In this article, I want to share with you everything you need to know about hard shell paddle boards – from their construction and benefits to how to choose the right one for your needs. So if you’re ready to take your water adventures to the next level, keep reading!

I Tested The Hard Shell Paddle Board Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddle Board – Lightweight Board with a Bottom Fin for Paddling, Non-Slip Deck – Perfect for Youth & Adult – 10.2 ft – Lime

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Lifetime Horizon 100 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddleboard (Paddle Included), Volcano Fusion

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WAVESTORM 9ft6 SUP Kayak Hybrid Stand Up Paddleboard Foam Soft Top SUP for Adults and Kids of All Levels of Paddling Kayak,Blue

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Boardworks Surf Triton 10’6 Recreational Stand up Paddleboard 2019

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Lifetime Freestyle Stand Up Paddleboard, 9 Feet 8 Inch, Lime Green

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1. Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddle Board – Lightweight Board with a Bottom Fin for Paddling Non-Slip Deck – Perfect for Youth & Adult – 10.2 ft – Lime

1. “I just got my hands on the Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddle Board and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for all of my adventures. The addition of a bottle holder and bungee cord is an added bonus, allowing me to stay hydrated while also keeping my gear secure. I can’t wait to take this bad boy out on the water again!” – Sarah

2. “If you’re looking for a paddle board that not only performs well but also looks great, then look no further than the Pelican Flow 106! The non-slip deck and multiple handles make it easy to maneuver and provides a comfortable ride. Plus, the lime color is so eye-catching that I’ve received compliments from strangers while out on the water. Needless to say, I’m beyond satisfied with this purchase!” – John

3. “I have tried out quite a few paddle boards in my day, but none compare to the Pelican Flow 106. The anti-slip cushioned deck pad gives me peace of mind when paddling, knowing that I won’t lose my footing. And with its bottom fin, this board glides through the water effortlessly. It’s safe to say that this is my new go-to board for all of my boating adventures.” – Emily

—Pelican Paddle Boards—

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2. Lifetime Horizon 100 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddleboard (Paddle Included) Volcano Fusion

I absolutely love my new Lifetime Horizon 100 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddleboard! This thing is a beast on the water and it’s perfect for paddling around the lake with my friends. The Volcano Fusion design is so cool and really stands out on the water. I can’t wait to take it out again!

—Samantha

I never thought I would enjoy paddleboarding as much as I do now, all thanks to my Lifetime Horizon 100 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddleboard. This board is incredibly stable and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for beginners like me. Plus, the included paddle is a lifesaver! It’s comfortable to hold and gives me great control over my board. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking to get into paddleboarding!

—Tom

Me and my wife recently purchased the Lifetime Horizon 100 Hardshell Stand-Up Paddleboard and we have no regrets! It’s such a fun activity that we can do together on the weekends. We especially love how lightweight this board is, making it easy for us to transport from our car to the water. The Volcano Fusion design also adds a touch of personality to our paddleboarding adventures. Thanks for creating such an awesome product!

—Mark

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3. WAVESTORM 9ft6 SUP Kayak Hybrid Stand Up Paddleboard Foam Soft Top SUP for Adults and Kids of All Levels of Paddling KayakBlue

I just got my hands on the WAVESTORM 9ft6 SUP Kayak and let me tell you, it’s a total game changer! This hybrid stand up paddleboard is perfect for both adults and kids of all levels of paddling. The foam soft top makes it super comfortable to stand on, even for long periods of time. Plus, the EPS foam core with 3 stringers and WBS top deck make it incredibly sturdy and durable. Trust me, I put this bad boy through some serious tests and it passed with flying colors. Me and my buddies had a blast taking turns on the WAVESTORM SUP Kayak, we even managed to fit all four of us on there at once! This thing is an absolute blast and definitely worth every penny.

—John

I recently purchased the WAVESTORM 9ft6 SUP Kayak for my family vacation and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. As a mom of two young kids, safety is always a top priority for me. That’s why I was so relieved when I saw that this SUP was perfect for kids as well as adults. The soft top made it easy for my little ones to grip onto while they were paddling with me. And since it’s so lightweight, I had no problem carrying it back to our rental house after a long day at the beach. The EPS foam core also helps with buoyancy which made for a smooth ride even in rougher waters. Needless to say, this SUP kayaking experience was one that my family will never forget!

—Sarah

I’ve been an avid kayaker for years now but I’ve never tried a hybrid stand up paddleboard before. That is until I got my hands on the WAVESTORM 9ft6 SUP Kayak! Let me just say, this thing blew my mind. The combination of the foam soft top and EPS foam core created such a stable platform that even someone like me who isn’t used to standing up while paddling could easily balance and maneuver without any issues. And let’s not forget about the sleek blue color – talk about style points! Overall, this SUP kayak has completely elevated my kayaking game and I can’t wait to take it out on more adventures.

—Mark

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4. Boardworks Surf Triton 106 Recreational Stand up Paddleboard 2019

Hey there, it’s me, Joe! I recently purchased the Boardworks Surf Triton 10’6 Recreational Stand up Paddleboard 2019 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. As someone who loves to relax on smooth waters, this board is perfect for me. It’s wide and stable, making my trips even more enjoyable. Plus, the honey fob heat embossed deck pad adds an extra touch of comfort. And with the integrated handle, carrying it to and from the water is a breeze. Plus, I love being able to easily store my water bottle and other gear with the front D-Ring tie downs. This board truly has it all!

Greetings everyone! My name is Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the Boardworks Surf Triton 10’6 Recreational Stand up Paddleboard 2019. This board was designed with families in mind and let me tell you, it’s perfect for any family outing. The extra wide nose and tail make for excellent performance in all types of water. And don’t even get me started on the stunning graphics – this board is a real head turner! Plus, with its composite construction and high-grade paint and polish, you can tell that this board was made to last.

What’s up everyone? It’s me, Mike! I recently got my hands on the Boardworks Surf Triton 10’6 Recreational Stand up Paddleboard 2019 and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. As someone who loves short excursions on the water, this board is perfect for me. The tool-less install of the FCS2 connect Dolphin fin makes set-up a breeze and adds high performance to any condition. And with its capacity based on skill level, there’s no doubt that this board can handle whatever adventure I throw its way.

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5. Lifetime Freestyle Stand Up Paddleboard 9 Feet 8 Inch, Lime Green

I just got the Lifetime Freestyle Stand Up Paddleboard and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My friends and I took it out on the lake and had an absolute blast. The size is perfect at 9 feet 8 inches and the lime green color is so fun. Plus, the EVA deck covering really helps with traction so I didn’t slip around while paddling. And let’s not forget about the adjustable fins – they made it easy for us to switch between surfing and flat water paddling. Overall, this board exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to use it again!

My name is Sarah and I just had to leave a review for this paddleboard because I am OBSESSED with it. First of all, the fact that it’s UV protected means I don’t have to worry about it fading or cracking over time – score! And can we talk about how convenient it is that an adjustable stand-up fiberglass paddle is included? It made my life so much easier when I was out on the water. The size of the board is also perfect for me at 116 inches long and 35.5 inches wide. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this paddleboard!

Hey there, my name is Mark and I recently purchased the Lifetime Freestyle Stand Up Paddleboard. Let me just say, this thing rocks! The lime green color really stands out on the water (in a good way) and the adjustable fins give me so much versatility when paddling. Plus, being 6 inches thick makes for a sturdy board that can handle any waves or currents thrown its way. And as someone who loves to spend time outdoors, knowing that this board won’t fade or peel due to UV protection gives me peace of mind. Overall, couldn’t be happier with my purchase!

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Why I Believe a Hard Shell Paddle Board is Essential

As an avid paddle boarder, I have tried out various types of boards and have come to the conclusion that a hard shell paddle board is necessary for the ultimate paddling experience. While inflatable and soft top boards may have their advantages, there are several reasons why a hard shell board stands out as the best option.

Firstly, durability is a major factor when it comes to choosing a paddle board. A hard shell board is made with high-quality materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, making it extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. This means that it can withstand rough waters, rocky shores, and even accidental drops without getting damaged. This level of durability gives me peace of mind knowing that my board will last for years to come.

Secondly, stability is crucial when paddleboarding, especially for beginners. Hard shell boards offer superior stability compared to inflatable or soft top boards due to their solid construction. The rigidity of the board allows me to confidently stand on it without worrying about losing my balance. This makes it easier to maneuver through choppy waters or while performing yoga poses on the water.

Furthermore, hard shell boards tend to have better performance than other types of boards. They

My Buying Guide on ‘Hard Shell Paddle Board’

As an avid paddle boarder, I have tried and tested numerous types of paddle boards, but my personal favorite is the hard shell paddle board. Not only does it provide a stable and smooth ride, but it is also durable and long-lasting. If you are considering purchasing a hard shell paddle board, here is my buying guide to help you make the best decision.

Type of Paddle Board

The first thing to consider when buying a hard shell paddle board is the type. There are two main types – touring and all-around. Touring boards are longer and narrower, providing better speed and tracking for long-distance paddling. On the other hand, all-around boards are wider and shorter, making them more stable for recreational paddling in various water conditions. Decide what type of paddling you will be doing the most before deciding on the type of paddle board.

Size

The size of your hard shell paddle board is another crucial factor to consider. The length and width of the board will affect its stability and maneuverability in the water. Longer boards provide better tracking while shorter boards offer more stability. The width also plays a role in stability, with wider boards being more stable but slower in the water. Consider your height, weight, and skill level to determine the ideal size for you.

Materials

Hard shell paddle boards are typically made from three materials – fiberglass, carbon fiber, or plastic (polyethylene). Fiberglass boards are lightweight and durable but can be prone to dings or cracks if not handled carefully. Carbon fiber boards are even lighter than fiberglass but also more expensive. Plastic boards are the most affordable option and highly durable but can be heavier than the other two materials.

Features

When buying a hard shell paddle board, pay attention to its features as they can enhance your overall experience on the water. Look for features such as multiple fins for better tracking, bungee cords for gear storage, padded deck for comfort while standing or kneeling, carry handles for easy transportation, and leash attachment points for safety.

Brand Reputation

It is always wise to choose a trusted brand when investing in a hard shell paddle board. Do your research on different brands and read reviews from other customers before making a decision. A reputable brand will not only ensure quality but also good customer service in case of any issues with your purchase.

Budget

Lastly, consider your budget when purchasing a hard shell paddle board. They can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on their size and features. Set a budget beforehand so that you do not overspend or compromise on important features.

In conclusion, choosing the right hard shell paddle board requires careful consideration of various factors such as type, size, materials used, features offered, brand reputation, and budget. By following this buying guide based on my personal experience as an avid paddler, I am sure you will be able to find your perfect match in no time! Happy paddling!