Inflatable Paddle Boards

Inflatable Paddle Boards
  • Jan 26, 2022

Is a Stand Up Paddle Board Worth the Investment?

A very common question we get is "Are inflatable stand-up paddle boards worth the money or should I get a hardboard? Spoiler alert, YES! Inflatable paddle boards are worth it as long as you are getting a quality board. Key Highlights Unrivaled Portability: Emphasizes the ease of transportation and storage, making travel to remote paddle locations feasible. Durability That Lasts: Discusses the use of high-quality materials like military-grade PVC for long-lasting durability. Versatility Across Waters: Highlights how inflatable SUPs perform excellently in various water conditions, from calm lakes to ocean waves. Quick Setup and Ease of Use: Details the convenience of quick inflation and deflation, making it ideal for spontaneous adventures. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time: Analyzes the long-term value offered by investing in a quality inflatable SUP, despite the initial cost. Safety Features: Points out the increased safety provided by inflatable SUPs, such as a softer landing during falls.

  • Jan 25, 2022

How To Fix Your iSUP Valve

There's nothing that will fill you with dread faster than seeing air bubbles and hearing the hiss of air escaping from your inflatable paddle board while you're out paddling around. Except seeing a great white tailing you; that would be worse. The good news is that inflatable paddleboard repair is so much easier than fixing dings on a hard paddle board. We'll review the repair process here and explain different techniques for locating leaks and applying patches to get rid of those pesky leaks once and for all. Don't fret- small holes are an easy fix. Key Highlights Identifying the Leak: Start by inflating your SUP and applying a soapy water solution to spot persistent air bubbles indicating leaks. Preparing the Surface: Thoroughly dry and clean the leak area with rubbing alcohol before any patch application. Patch Application: Apply PVC glue to both the patch and the SUP, press firmly to adhere without gaps, and allow to cure overnight for best results. Using Self-stick Patches: For quick, minor repairs, self-stick patches offer a convenient, no-mess solution. Valve Maintenance: Tighten the valve with the included wrench to prevent air from escaping. Regular checks ensure the valve remains tight and functional. Post-Repair Testing: After repairs, re-inflate and recheck the area with soapy water to confirm the leak is sealed.

  • Dec 30, 2021

Glide O2 Lotus Inflatable Yoga Paddle Board

The O2 Lotus inflatable board is the inflatable version of Glide’s famous Lotus board. The Lotus board was the first board designed as a yoga specific paddle board. There were other boards that were painting Yoga graphics on an all-around board and calling it a yoga board but the Lotus set the standard of what a Yoga paddle board should be, and to this day it is still the benchmark which all other yoga boards are compared against. Key Highlights: Purpose-Built for Yoga: The O2 Lotus is crafted with a focus on yoga, providing a stable and wide platform that mimics a yoga mat, ideal for both beginners and advanced yogis. Premium Materials: Constructed with fusion PVC and a reinforced woven drop stitch core, ensuring durability and longevity. Versatile Design: While optimized for yoga, the O2 Lotus is also fun and easy to paddle in various water conditions including flat lakes and ocean waves, thanks to its tailored rocker and tail design. Complete Package: Comes with all necessary accessories, including a wheeled travel bag, adjustable paddle, leash, fin, manual pump, and repair kit, making it ready for any adventure. Renowned Durability: Backed by Glide's reputation for producing durable boards, accompanied by a two-year warranty against defects.

  • Dec 25, 2021

Air Travel with an iSUP

Traveling with your inflatable stand-up paddleboard (iSUP) can add an exciting dimension to your holiday adventures, offering the freedom to explore waterways wherever you go. Whether by plane or car, taking your iSUP along requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Here are comprehensive tips for traveling with your iSUP during the holiday season. Key Highlights: Construction and Durability: iSUPs are built using single, double, or fusion layer methods, impacting their resilience and performance. High-quality iSUPs can last over seven years with frequent use. Comparison to Hard Boards: While hard boards have their merits, iSUPs offer advantages in portability, safety, and ease of storage, making them an appealing choice for many paddlers. Investment Value: An iSUP offers not just a mode of recreation but a durable asset that brings extended joy and adventure on the water. Maintenance Tips: Proper care, including storing the iSUP dry and shielded from UV rays, is crucial for maximizing its lifespan. High-Performance Features: Look for iSUPs that incorporate advanced technologies and materials to enhance durability and stability.

  • Dec 16, 2021

How the Inflatable Paddle Board became a Game Changer for Women

The portability of inflatable paddle boards has truly made SUP the perfect sport for women. The meditative aspects of being out in nature with friends and family while keeping their muscles and bones strong are powerful antidotes to the stress of modern-day life. Here's our rundown of why stand up paddle boarding can be for you! Key Highlights Accessibility: The lightweight and portable design of inflatable SUPs makes them ideal for easy transport and quick setup, catering especially to women who appreciate the convenience. Empowerment: SUP offers women the freedom to explore waterways independently, promoting empowerment and a sense of adventure. Fitness and Fun: Stand-up paddleboarding provides a full-body workout that strengthens muscles and bones, making it a healthy, enjoyable activity. Versatility: Whether it's SUP yoga, leisure paddling, or vigorous touring, inflatable paddle boards cater to a diverse range of activities and skill levels. Community Support: Organizations like She SUPs highlight the growing community of women paddlers, fostering connections and support among enthusiasts.

  • Dec 9, 2021

Inflatable Paddle Board vs Inflatable Kayak

Both the inflatable paddle board and inflatable kayak will help you stay in shape while letting you reconnect with nature.  The decision over which one to purchase will come down to what you are looking for in a vessel in terms of the muscles you want to work, the ease of learning and of transport, safety, and versatility.  Here's the breakdown to help you decide which to pick. Key Highlights Muscle Engagement: Paddle boards offer a full-body workout by engaging your core, arms, and legs, while kayaks focus more on the upper body. View and Experience: Standing on a SUP provides a better view of your surroundings and wildlife, enhancing the paddling experience. Speed and Efficiency: Kayaks are typically faster and more energy-efficient, but SUPs can catch wind to aid their speed. Versatility: SUPs are more versatile, suitable for a variety of activities including yoga and surfing, whereas kayaks offer more specialized uses. Learning Curve and Safety: Kayaks may be easier for beginners due to their stability, but SUPs offer a quick learning curve in calm conditions and easier re-mounting after falling off. Transportation and Storage: Both are easy to transport and store, but SUPs often edge out in ease due to their slimmer design.

  • Dec 3, 2021

Why Glide Inflatable Paddle Boards Make Wonderful Christmas Gifts

We know that the holiday season can become stressful with giving the right gift to your loved ones. Here's why Glide Inflatable Paddle Boards make the absolute best Christmas gift for you and your family/friends! Key Highlights: Unique and Meaningful Gift: Unlike common gifts that may not impact the recipient's life significantly, a Glide inflatable paddle board offers a blend of excitement, health, and adventure. Investment in Health and Fitness: Stand up paddleboarding is not just fun but also an excellent way to improve one's physical and mental health. Perfect for Any Adventure: Whether it's a serene lake or the open ocean, Glide paddle boards are versatile enough for any water environment. Easy to Store and Transport: With a compact and lightweight design, these paddle boards are ideal for those who appreciate practicality and convenience. Durability and Longevity: Built with high-quality materials and construction, Glide paddle boards are designed to last, making them a long-term investment in fun and fitness.

  • Oct 13, 2021

What type of Glide iSUP should I buy?

It can be hard trying to figure which Glide Inflatable Paddleboard would be the best fit for you. Here's a breakdown from our very own, Joe, who will give you his best advice on making the greatest decision of your life! Key Highlights Board Types: Understand the differences between Glide's various models like the all-purpose Retro, the narrow and fast Quest, and the stable, utility-focused Angler. Consider Your Size: Use your height plus 9-12 inches to determine the ideal board length, keeping in mind that width is more crucial for stability. Activity-Based Choices: Choose a board based on your primary activities—whether it’s yoga, fishing, touring, or casual paddling. Advanced Materials and Construction: All Glide boards utilize fusion construction for superior durability and performance. Special Features: Explore unique features like extra tie-downs, D-rings, and Scotty® gear mounting points on models like the Angler for added utility.

  • Oct 7, 2021

O2 Retro Inflatable Paddle Board

Deciding which Glide inflatable paddle board to get, or just purchase your very own O2 Retro inflatable paddle board? We're here to give you the skinny on everything about our All-Around iSUP. We also created a video on YouTube that you can watch on our channel. Key Highlights Classic Style Meets Modern Technology: The Glide O2 Retro combines a classic all-around shape with the latest fusion construction and woven drop stitch technology for unparalleled performance. Designed for Everyone: Whether you're a first-timer, a seasoned paddler, or looking to enjoy paddle boarding with your pets and family, the O2 Retro's stability and maneuverability make it the perfect choice. Optimized Dimensions for All-Around Use: At 10’6” in length and 33” in width, the O2 Retro offers an excellent balance of glide, speed, and stability, making it a versatile board for all water conditions. Feature-Rich for Maximum Enjoyment: Includes a bungee cargo area, non-slip brushed deck pad, comfortable carry handle, high-quality valve for up to 25PSI, reinforced rails, and a flat bottom design for extra stability. USA Fin Box for Customization: Unlike boards with proprietary fin systems, the O2 Retro features a standard USA style fin box, giving you access to a wide range of fins to tailor your board to any condition.

  • Sep 28, 2021

How to Pack Your Inflatable SUP

Finding a quality inflatable paddle board can be a bit tricky, but with your own Glide Inflatable Paddle Board you'll never be disappointed. Here is the tips and tricks on packing up your inflatable to get you board stored correctly. Key Highlights Deflation Process: Safely deflate your inflatable SUP by removing the fin, pressing the valve stem, and expelling air by applying pressure on the board. Rolling Techniques: Master the technique of rolling your inflatable SUP from the nose towards the tail to efficiently expel air and fit it into the storage bag. Storing Essentials: Ensure your board is clean and dry before storage to prevent mold and maintain its quality, especially during off-season or long-term storage. Packing Your SUP: Properly place and secure your board in the storage bag, along with other accessories like paddles, kayak seats, and the hand pump. Access to Help: Glide offers ongoing support through email and phone for any questions or concerns about packing and maintaining your inflatable paddle board.

  • Sep 21, 2021

Are Glide Inflatables the Best Inflatable Paddle Board?

Most of our competitors aren't avid or even experienced paddle boarders. Our founder Ken Driscoll who was a professional kayak turned paddler after his spine broke through an accident (read more about him here), and he is here to walk you through myths and facts of inflatable board construction and how to tell the cheap inflatables from the ones that will actually last and perform for your money. Key Highlights Founder's Expertise: Ken Driscoll, a professional turned paddle board enthusiast due to an accident, founded Glide with a commitment to quality and performance. Construction Types Explained: Glide avoids the pitfalls of single-layer boards, enhances double-layer boards, and excels with glue-free fusion technology. Superior Materials: Glide SUPs use woven drop-stitch fabric for increased stiffness and durability, setting them apart from competitors using knitted versions. PSI as a Quality Indicator: Glide boards boast a 25 PSI rating, indicating their superior build and ability to perform under rigorous conditions. Market Position: Positioned as premium products, Glide SUPs offer features that are beneficial for both novices and experienced paddlers, enhancing their overall paddle boarding experience.

  • Sep 20, 2021

Should I Get an Inflatable or Hard Board?

If you're torn between getting an inflatable or a hard board for stand-up paddleboarding, don't sweat it – it's a common dilemma. Let's simplify things for you. Key Highlights Transportation Ease: Inflatable SUPs offer unparalleled convenience, fitting into cars and planes with ease. Storage Solutions: The compact nature of deflated inflatable boards makes them ideal for tight spaces. Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, inflatable SUPs are more budget-friendly, considering initial purchase, shipping, and material durability. Board Feel: While hard boards provide a firmer platform, modern inflatables closely mimic this feel, with added comfort. Performance on Different Waters: Inflatables are superior on rivers for their safety and durability, hard boards excel in ocean wave performance, and it's a tie on flat waters.

  • May 10, 2021

Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (iSUP)

Embarking on the adventure of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) introduces you to a world where balance, strength, and serenity meet. If you’ve settled on the versatility and convenience of an inflatable stand-up paddle board (iSUP), you’re in for a treat. But, not all iSUPs are created equal. Here’s what you need to understand to ensure you're investing in quality, performance, and durability. Key Highlights Construction Quality: Opt for iSUPs made from military-grade PVC with woven drop-stitch technology for enhanced firmness and durability. Deck Pads: Choose EVA deck pads that cover the entire deck, providing comfort, stability, and space for extra gear or companions. Board Rails: Look for iSUPs with reinforced rails, indicating higher durability and the ability to withstand high pressure and impacts. Fin Box Flexibility: A universal fin box offers the versatility to change fins based on activity, enhancing your paddling experience. Shape Variability: Select the right iSUP shape based on your preferred activities, from fishing and yoga to river running. Accessory Essentials: Ensure your iSUP package includes a fin, dual-chamber pump, backpack, leash, paddle, D-Rings, and possibly a kayak seat. Manufacturer’s Reputation: Invest in brands with a solid track record in the SUP industry for peace of mind and quality assurance.

  • Mar 7, 2021

Unlock the Ultimate Adventure with Our All-Around SUP Board

If you're looking for the best board of your life then we have good news for you. We'll break down our most popular inflatable paddle board to tell you why it should be your #1 pick. Key Highlights Versatility for Every Adventure: The Retro board is suitable for various activities like yoga, fishing, and surfing, adapting to both calm and rough waters. High-Quality Build: Constructed with military-grade PVC and a sophisticated woven drop stitch, the Retro is designed for durability and longevity. Beginner-Friendly Yet Advanced: Provides stability for beginners and agility for experienced paddlers, growing with your skill level. Enhanced Features for Added Value: Comes equipped with a kayak seat and a dual-action pump, offering over $100 in added value and versatility. Family and Group Ready: With its impressive load capacity, the Retro board supports paddling with kids, pets, or extra gear.

  • Feb 1, 2021

What to Consider When Buying an Inflatable Paddle Board

If you are looking to buy an inflatable paddle board, I’m sure you are becoming overwhelmed at the options. This post will offer you honest advice as to what you should be looking for in price, size, etc. Just like people, the boards will be considerably different if you know what to look for and what questions to ask. The inflatable paddle board you decide on is an investment in fun and adventure, so let’s keep those ideas in mind while purchasing. Key Highlights: Determine Your Paddling Style: Consider what type of paddling you plan to do—whether it's yoga, touring, or recreational paddling—to choose a board that grows with you. Water Type Compatibility: Choose a board based on the bodies of water you'll frequent—oceans, lakes, or rivers—to ensure optimal performance. Budget Considerations: Understand the range of prices for inflatable paddle boards and what features affect the cost to ensure you make a cost-effective decision. Construction Quality: Learn about the different construction types—single layer, double layer PVC, and fusion double layer—and how they affect the board's stability, durability, and performance. Board Size and Dimensions: Factor in the length and width of the board, as these dimensions influence stability and speed, tailoring it to your intended activities.

  • Jan 6, 2021

The Top 10 Advantages of Hard and Inflatable Paddle Boards

Your finally ready to purchase a paddle board for yourself or your family but how do you know which board to buy? Glide has boards for just about everyone and for any type of paddling, so let us help you narrow down your selection. Key Highlights Ideal for Explorers: Inflatable SUPs offer unparalleled convenience for remote adventures, easily packed and transported. Durability & Longevity: Glide's inflatable SUPs are engineered for resilience, standing the test of time against various conditions. Cost-Effectiveness: Inflatable boards provide quality at a more affordable price, allowing for additional adventure funds. Ease of Transportation: Forget roof racks; an inflatable SUP fits in your trunk, simplifying travel to your paddle destination. Lightweight Design: Inflatable boards are user-friendly for all ages, promoting easier handling than heavier hardboards. Resilience to Damage: The PVC construction of inflatables withstands impacts better, reducing damage risk. Safety on Falls: The softer surface of inflatable boards minimizes injury risk, making them safer for stunts and tricks. Effortless Storage: Inflatables can be easily stored away, occupying minimal space compared to hardboards. Maintains Appearance: Designed to retain their look, inflatable boards offer lasting value. Travel-Friendly: Easy to transport by both car and plane without extra luggage fees.