Our Top Rated Inflatable Paddleboard for 2025

The world of paddleboarding is evolving fast and growing each year, which can become so confusing and feel like a trap about what board is the best model for you and your wallet!

With over 15 years in the paddleboard market, we have seen our fair share of new technologies, sizes, and innovations, but we can confidently say we have good knowledge and expertise of what boards are best for each individual!

For 2025, we have thought hard about what is available on the market, and this year we think the best value and quality board for those getting into the sport, or wanting a great all-rounder for the summer, is the Starboard iGO Zen SC 11’2”.

It is a slightly older model, but with all the popular technology still, below is why we think this inflatable SUP is the best paddleboard of 2025:

1. Perfect Balance of Stability and Speed

At 11’2” x 31”, the iGO Zen SC hits the sweet spot between length and width, offering excellent glide while remaining stable and forgiving. Whether you’re just starting out or cruising longer distances, this board tracks straight, paddles smoothly, and doesn’t wobble, making it an ideal all-rounder.

2. Lightweight Yet Durable

The "Zen SC" construction uses Starboard’s signature woven dropstitch technology, which keeps the board lightweight without compromising strength. Weighing just around 9.5 kg, it’s easy to carry, pack, and inflate. The welded rail technology also improves overall durability and longevity, reducing the risk of leaks compared to traditional glued seams, whilst also saving on weight and being more eco-friendly with no glue.

3. Eco-Friendly Build

Starboard isn’t just making environmentally conscious boards—they’re redefining what it means to be a responsible brand in the water sports industry. Every Starboard product is carbon net-positive, thanks to initiatives like mangrove planting, plastic offsetting, and using recycled materials in packaging and board production. Their Plastic Offset Program removes more plastic from coastal communities than they produce in their operations. As a company, Starboard also champions climate education, ocean conservation, and green innovation. It's also not only the board, the leashes and bags are made from recycled plastics, and the paddles have rubbish catchers too!

Choosing a Starboard SUP means you’re supporting a brand that’s actively fighting for the health of the planet. If you care about the oceans you paddle in, this is a brand that walks the talk.

4. Designed for Versatility

Whether you're paddling on a lake, river, or coastal bay, the iGO Zen SC 11’2” performs with confidence. Its shape is optimized for flatwater paddling but can also handle light chop and small waves. Add a dry bag or bring your dog—the deck space and tie-down system make it easy to customise your adventure.

5. Great Value for the Price

In a time when premium paddleboards can easily exceed $1,200, the iGO Zen SC is competitively priced without cutting corners. You get the same quality and R&D pedigree Starboard is known for—at a price point that makes it accessible to a wider range of paddlers. For the fantastic price of £429, you also get the highest quality package components.

 The bag is wheeled with rucksack options too (alone the bag is £65), the pump is double action to improve and ease pumping up the board, and for £429 you get the hybrid carbon shaft tufskin paddle which retails for at least £99! What a fantastic price and quality package for an unbeatable price.

6. Trusted Brand with Proven Innovation

Starboard has been pushing paddleboard design since the early days of the sport. With a strong reputation in both racing and recreation, they continue to lead the industry in both innovation and reliability. The iGO Zen SC is a reflection of their commitment to performance, sustainability, and user-friendly design for everyone of all skilled riders on the water. Trust the board and brand when you head out this summer!

Whether you’re shopping for your first inflatable SUP or upgrading to something more refined for 2025, the Starboard iGO Zen SC 11’2” delivers on every front: stability, ease of use, environmental responsibility, and unmatched versatility. It’s not just the best paddleboard of the year—it’s the board that will keep you coming back to the water again and again.

Ready to paddle smarter in 2025? The iGO Zen SC might just be your perfect match!

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If you have any other questions about this board or paddleboards in general, pop in-store, call us on 01202 700503 or email us at info@pooleharbour.co.uk