If you're thinking about getting an inflatable paddle board but wondering whether it’s harder to stand on compared to a hard board, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions from first-time paddlers.

The short answer is: A high-quality inflatable paddle board is just as easy to stand on as a hard board—and in some cases, it’s even easier.
Let’s break down why, what factors matter most, and how to choose a board that gives you the best stability for your style of paddling.

Understanding Paddle Board Stability

When it comes to standing up comfortably on a paddle board, stability is everything. Several factors determine how stable a board feels under your feet:

• Board Width
  Wider boards are more stable. Look for widths between 32 to 36 inches if you prioritize easy balance.

• Board Thickness
  Most inflatable SUPs today are built 6 inches thick, providing a rigid, high-volume platform that floats you higher on the water.

• Board Shape
  All-around boards (rounded noses) offer great stability. Touring and racing boards (pointed noses) are designed for speed but can still be stable once moving.

• Rigidity
  An inflatable board needs to be inflated to its recommended PSI (usually 12–18 PSI) to achieve maximum stiffness and minimize flex.

How Inflatable Paddle Boards Compare to Hard Boards

Thanks to advancements in design and materials, high-quality inflatable SUPs, like those from Glide, match or even surpass hard boards in several key areas.

Inflatable Paddle Board Advantages:

• Forgiveness: Inflatable boards have a slight give, which can absorb small waves and choppy water, offering a smoother ride.

• Durability: High-end inflatables are built with military-grade PVC and reinforced seams, making them extremely tough and resistant to dings and cracks.

• Stability: When properly inflated, inflatables maintain a firm, stable surface that rivals the feel of a traditional hardboard.

Hard Board Advantages:

• Direct Feel: Some paddlers prefer the slightly firmer feel of hard boards for racing or advanced maneuvers.

• Slightly Faster Glide: Hard boards can offer a bit more speed in glassy, calm conditions.

Bottom Line:
If you're a beginner, an inflatable board is not harder to stand on. In fact, it might be more forgiving and comfortable, especially in real-world paddling conditions like lakes, bays, and rivers.

Factors That Make Inflatable Boards Easier to Stand On

1. Width and Shape
Wider boards offer a larger surface area, making it easier to maintain balance. Glide’s all-around and fishing models, for example, feature wider designs for extra stability.

2. Board Construction
Superior drop-stitch core technology and dual- or triple-layer PVC give inflatable boards a rock-solid feel underfoot. Glide’s AeroMatrix™ construction ensures exceptional stiffness without extra weight.

3. Proper Inflation
An underinflated board feels soft and wobbly. Always inflate to the recommended PSI to maximize stability. Glide inflatables are engineered to hold high pressures safely.

4. Your Technique
Starting on calm water, keeping your knees slightly bent, and keeping your gaze on the horizon will instantly make standing easier—regardless of board type.

Why Glide Inflatable SUPs Stand Out for Stability

At Glide, we focus on building inflatable paddle boards that perform in real-world conditions—not just perfect flatwater. Every model is:

• Built with woven drop-stitch cores for maximum rigidity

• Reinforced with heat-welded seams for durability

• Designed with optimized width for enhanced balance

• Tuned for easy tracking and glide, even for beginners

From our beginner-friendly O2 Retro to the ultra-stable O2 Angler for fishing and gear hauling, Glide boards make standing, paddling, and adventuring easier for paddlers of all sizes and skill levels.

Final Thoughts: Standing Tall on an Inflatable Paddle Board

A high-quality inflatable paddle board is absolutely not harder to stand on—and in many cases, it’s easier. With the right width, construction, and inflation, today's inflatable SUPs deliver outstanding stability, durability, and performance.

If you're looking for an inflatable paddle board that makes it easy to stand, paddle, and explore with confidence, check out Glide’s collection of ultra-durable, high-performance boards built for every adventure.

Shop Glide Inflatable Paddle Boards