Best SUP boards 2026 – experts' top list

Are you faced with choosing a new SUP board and feeling overwhelmed by all the options on the market? You're not alone. With hundreds of models from dozens of manufacturers, it can be difficult to know which one really delivers the best performance for your money.

As SUP experts with over 18 years of experience, Kona Sports has tested and developed boards in real-world conditions – from calm lakes to demanding ocean paddling. Our expertise is based on both extensive product development and feedback from thousands of satisfied customers across Scandinavia.

In this guide, we present our top recommendations for 2025 from the Kona Sports range, divided by use and budget. You'll get concrete specifications, honest pros and cons, and clear advice on which board suits your needs and conditions.

Whether you're looking for your first SUP board or upgrading from an older model, this expert guide will help you make an informed choice that you'll be happy with for years to come. All recommendations are based on our Scandinavian design philosophy where sustainable innovation meets practical functionality.

Table of contents

• Evaluation criteria & test methods

• Best all-round SUP (top 3)

• Best for beginners (top 3)

• Best racing SUP (top 2)

• Best Budget SUP (Top 2)

• Summary & buying advice

• FAQs about SUP selection
  
  

Evaluation criteria & test methods

As manufacturers and experts in the SUP industry since 2006, we have developed extensive testing methods that reflect how the boards are actually used in Scandinavian conditions.

Our evaluation criteria are based on four main areas that are crucial for a good SUP experience:

Stability and control are evaluated through practical tests in different water conditions typical of Swedish lakes and coastal waters. We test how safe the board feels for beginners, how it handles waves and wind, and how easy it is to keep balance while paddling. This is especially important in our changeable Scandinavian weather.

Speed ​​and efficiency are measured through systematic testing with paddlers in different weight classes over set distances. We compare how much power is required to achieve and maintain speed, as well as how the board performs over longer trips. Here we see clear differences between our different constructions and design principles.

Build quality and durability are assessed through detailed quality checks of materials, seams and accessories developed during our 18+ years in the industry. We also check how well the boards withstand transportation, storage and intensive use in Nordic climate conditions.

Ease of use and value encompass everything from pumping and packing procedures to included accessories and long-term cost. We also evaluate how well the product supports the user’s development over time – a core principle of our product philosophy.

As Scandinavia's leading SUP manufacturer with a deep understanding of local conditions, we can offer recommendations that really work for Swedish paddlers. Our combination of technical innovation and practical experience gives you the most complete picture of which Kona board is right for you.

Best all-round SUP (top 3)

A good all-round SUP board should work for everything from leisurely family trips to more demanding paddling, be stable enough for beginners but still offer performance for experienced paddlers.

1. Kona Active Air SUP 10.8 - 32" - The all-round champion

Price: SEK 4,990 (ord. price: SEK 8,490)

The Kona Active Air SUP 10.8 stands as our absolute best all-round SUP board for 2025. With its 291 liter volume and 32 inch width, it offers the perfect balance between stability and performance, making it suitable for the whole family.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 10'8" (3.25m)

• Width: 32" (81.3 cm)

• Volume: 291 L

• Weight: 10.8 kg

• Max pressure: 25 PSI

• Paddler's weight: < 120 kg

• Load weight: +55 kg

• Buoyancy: 130

• Stability Rating: Very Stable

Test results:

• Average speed: 8.14 km/h

• Maximum speed: 11.56 km/h

• Stability (stationary): 136

• Energy consumption: 394 kcal

The advanced double-layer Dropstitch construction with carbon fiber reinforcements provides exceptional stiffness at 25 PSI, which is clearly visible in performance, delivering superior efficiency compared to thinner designs, while being forgiving enough to make beginners feel confident from the first stroke.

As an all-round board, it grows with the user's skills and needs. Beginners appreciate the stability, while more experienced paddlers benefit from the efficient construction for longer trips and varied use.

2. Kona Core Air SUP 12.6 - 30.5" - The Touring Specialist

Price: SEK 3,990 (ord. price: SEK 6,990)

For paddlers who prioritize longer trips and exploration, the Core Air 12.6 is the perfect combination of stability and touring performance for SUP . The extra length provides superior tracking ability and speed for adventurous paddlers.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 12'6" (3.81m)

• Width: 30.5" (77.5cm)

• Volume: 302 L

• Weight: 9.3 kg

• Max pressure: 20 PSI

• Paddler's weight: < 100 kg

• Load weight: +50 kg

• Buoyancy: 145

Test results:

• Average speed: 8.6 km/h

• Maximum speed: 11.83 km/h

• Stability (stationary): 115

• Course stability: 135

• Energy consumption: 531 kcal

With 302 liters of volume, it fits paddlers up to 100 kg, while the wide 30.5" platform provides secure stability for longer distances. The hull design is optimized to cut through water with minimal effort, which is clearly noticeable on longer trips.

For Swedish conditions where long lakes and archipelago paddling is popular, this model offers the optimal combination of comfort and performance at a very attractive price.

3. Kona Core Air SUP 10.8 - 32" - The budget favorite

Price: SEK 3,990 (ord. price: SEK 5,990)

The Core Air 10.8 represents our most Affordable SUP board with a focus on reliability and comfort. With its 32 inch width, it offers good stability in a compact and easy-to-handle size.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 10'8" (3.25m)

• Width: 32" (81.3 cm)

• Volume: 269 L

• Weight: 8.5 kg

• Max pressure: 20 PSI

• Paddler's weight: < 100 kg

• Load weight: +40 kg

• Buoyancy: 120

Test results:

• Average speed: 8.06 km/h

• Maximum speed: 11.37 km/h

• Stability (stationary): 117

• Energy consumption: 353 kcal

The 269 liter volume makes it ideal for paddlers up to 100 kg, while the shorter length provides excellent maneuverability in tight spaces and at docks. This makes it perfect for Swedish conditions with many small lakes and winding waterways.

Best for beginners (top 3)

For beginners, stability, forgiveness and ease of handling are key factors. These Kona boards are specifically designed to provide a positive first SUP experience.

1. Kona Cruiser Air SUP 12.6 - 30.5" - Beginner's dream

Price: SEK 6,990 (ord. price: SEK 9,990)

The Kona Cruiser Air stands out as the The perfect beginner board thanks to its thoughtful design that prioritizes stability and comfort. With a 12'6" length and wide 30.5" platform, it offers exceptional stability even for completely insecure paddlers.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 12'6" (3.81m)

• Width: 30.5" (77.5cm)

• Volume: 297 L

• Weight: 11.4 kg

• Max pressure: 25 PSI

• Paddler's weight: < 120 kg

• Load weight: +65 kg

• Buoyancy: 155

Test results:

• Average speed: 8.78 km/h

• Maximum speed: 11.94 km/h

• Stability (stationary): 127

• Course stability: 145

• Energy consumption: 586 kcal

The 297-liter volume provides generous buoyancy for paddlers up to 120 kg, while the double-layer construction with carbon fiber reinforcements contributes to maximum stiffness and comfort. The long length provides excellent tracking ability, reducing the need for corrective strokes for beginners.

As a beginner board, the Cruiser Air grows with the user. The stable platform provides confidence for the first few paddles, while the length and construction allow progression to more advanced paddling as skills develop.

2. Kona Active Air SUP 10.8 - 32" - Secure stability

Price: SEK 4,990 (ord. price: SEK 8,490)

The Active Air 10.8 is a great beginner board thanks to its "Very Stable" rating and well-balanced combination of stability and manageability. With a 32" width and 291 liter volume, it offers confident stability while its compact size makes it easy to handle.

The shorter 10'8" length makes the board intuitive to control for beginners, both on land and in the water. Maneuvering requires less technique than longer boards, making the learning process more natural and fun for new paddlers.

3. Kona Core Air SUP 10.8 - 32" - Financial security

Price: SEK 3,990 (ord. price: SEK 5,990)

The Core Air 10.8 offers the perfect combination for beginners who want solid performance without over-investing in their first SUP. This model represents our philosophy of products that "grow with the family" - maximum forgiveness for beginners but with performance that remains usable even as the paddler progresses.

Best racing SUP (top 2)

For competitive paddlers, we demand the optimal combination of speed, stability and efficiency. These Kona models represent top technology for racing and training.

1. Kona Numinous Air SUP Racing 14.0 - 27" - The Racing Champion

Price: SEK 7,990 (ord. price: SEK 10,990)

The Kona Numinous Air Racing stands as our absolute The top model for SUP racing and represents the culmination of our technical development. With its 14 feet length and 27" width, it is designed for maximum efficiency and speed through the water.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 14'0" (4.27m)

• Width: 27" (68.6 cm)

• Volume: 291 L

• Weight: 12.7 kg

• Max pressure: 25 PSI

• Paddler's weight: < 120 kg

• Buoyancy: 160

• Stability rating: Stable

Test results:

• Average speed: 9.35 km/h

• Maximum speed: 12.85 km/h

• Stability (stationary): 120

• Course stability: 150

• Glide ratio: 28

• Energy consumption: 671 kcal

The construction with Fusion drop-stitch material and carbon fiber reinforcements provides exceptional stiffness at high PSI values. This is immediately noticeable in power transfer where every paddle stroke is efficiently converted into forward motion without energy loss.

2. Kona Numinous Air SUP 14.0 - 25" - Elite racing

Price: SEK 8,990 (ord. price: SEK 12,490)

For paddlers seeking absolute maximum speed and ready for the challenge of a An extremely narrow racing board, the Numinous Air 14.0 x 25" is our most advanced option.

Technical specifications:

• Length: 14'0" (4.27m)

• Width: 25" (63.5cm)

• Volume: 261 L

• Weight: 11.9 kg

• Paddler's weight: < 100 kg

• Stability rating: Challenging

Test results:

• Average speed: 9.43 km/h

• Maximum speed: 12.68 km/h

• Glide ratio: 28

• Energy consumption: 625 kcal

The ultra-slim profile minimizes water resistance to an absolute minimum and delivers speeds that match hard race boards. For experienced competitive paddlers looking to maximize their potential in club and elite racing, this is the ultimate choice.

Best Budget SUP (Top 2)

Even on a budget, you don't have to compromise on Kona quality. These models offer our core values ​​at more accessible prices.

1. Kona Core Air SUP 10.8 - 32" - Affordable quality

Price: SEK 3,990 (ord. price: SEK 5,990)

Our Core Air 10.8 represents exceptional value for money without compromising on the quality that Kona Sports is known for. At an attractive price point, you get access to the same construction principles and design philosophy as our premium models.

With 269 liters of volume and 32" width, it offers a stable platform suitable for most recreational paddling and family use. The Core Air series construction with reinforced dropstitch and quality materials maintains the same high standard as our entire product line.

2. Kona Core Air SUP 12.6 - 30.5" - Touring Value

Price: SEK 3,990 (ord. price: SEK 6,990)

The Core Air 12.6 offers Kona quality with a focus on touring and longer paddling at a very attractive price. With its long 12'6" profile and wide 30.5" platform, you get excellent tracking and stability.

The volume of 302 liters is perfect for paddlers up to 100 kg, making it ideal for both adults and young people who want to start with quality equipment that will last a long time.

Summary & buying advice

After presenting our best SUP boards for 2025, some clear recommendations emerge based on your specific needs and conditions.

For all-round use, the Kona Active Air SUP 10.8 - 32" is our obvious first choice. The perfect balance between stability and performance, combined with our Scandinavian design philosophy, makes it ideal for most SUP paddling in Swedish conditions.

For beginners, we recommend the Kona Cruiser Air SUP 12.6 - 30.5" which offers maximum safety and stability without limiting development opportunities. The wide, long platform creates an optimal learning environment for new paddlers.

Racing enthusiasts looking for top performance will find it in the Kona Numinous Air Racing 14.0 - 27". Our most advanced construction and well-thought-out hydrodynamics place it in the absolute world class for competitive paddling.

Budget-conscious buyers get exceptional value in the Core Air series, proving that Kona quality is accessible to all budgets without compromising our core values.

When you choose a SUP board from Kona Sports, you're not just investing in a product - you're becoming part of a family that prioritizes long-term quality, Scandinavian functionality and genuine values. Our 18+ years in the industry guarantee that you'll receive support, spare parts and expert advice long after your purchase.

Consider Swedish conditions when making your choice. Our changing weather and variety in water types require boards that can withstand both calm lakes and more challenging conditions. All our boards are tested and developed specifically for Scandinavian conditions.

Also remember that proper technique and safety equipment are just as important as the board itself. A basic course from the Swedish Lifesaving Society can be a valuable investment for safe paddling.

Stand up people. Stand up life. – It’s not just about choosing the right equipment, it’s about embracing a lifestyle that unites body, movement and the power of nature into something greater than the sum of its parts. Our SUP boards are designed to support this journey, no matter where you are in your SUP development.

FAQs about SUP selection

Which Kona SUP board is best for me?

Choosing the right Kona SUP board depends primarily on your weight, experience level, and intended use. As a rule of thumb, we recommend the Active Air series for all-around use, the Cruiser Air for beginners and maximum stability, and the Numinous Air for racing and performance.

For paddlers under 70 kg, our 10'8" models work great, while paddlers over 90 kg should choose boards with at least 290 liters of volume such as the Active Air 10.8 or Cruiser Air 12.6. Width affects stability - beginners should choose at least 30.5" width.

What makes Kona SUP boards better than other brands?

Kona Sports SUP boards are distinguished by our unique combination of Scandinavian design philosophy, 18+ years of industry expertise and a focus on long-term quality over short-term solutions. Our boards are developed specifically for Nordic conditions and users.

In terms of construction, we use advanced dropstitch technology with reinforced seams and premium materials that withstand Swedish climate conditions. Our holistic approach means that accessories, service and support are integrated for an optimal user experience over time.

How long does a Kona SUP board last?

With proper care and use, a Kona SUP board will last for many years of intensive use. Our construction methods and premium materials are designed for long-term durability rather than short-term cost savings.

Typical lifespan for intensive use is 5-8 years, while recreational users often use their Kona boards for over 10 years. The key is proper maintenance – rinsing after use, storing dry, and promptly repairing any damage.

Can I use Kona SUP all year round in Sweden?

Absolutely! Kona SUP boards are designed for Scandinavian conditions and can be used all year round with the right safety equipment. Our boards can withstand Swedish climate variations from the heat of summer to the cold of winter.

The winter season requires special equipment such as a wetsuit or drysuit, as well as increased safety awareness. Many Swedish Kona users paddle throughout the winter months in ice-free waters with great joy and safety.

For year-round training, we also recommend trying Indoor SUP that gives you the opportunity to practice technique and balance even during the winter.

What safety rules apply to SUP in Sweden?

In Sweden, SUP is covered by the Swedish Transport Administration's maritime regulations. A safety leash is mandatory and included in all our SUP packages. Life jackets are highly recommended and mandatory for children under 13 years of age.

Paddling should be done with consideration for other water traffic and nature conservation. In national parks and nature reserves, special rules may apply according to the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency . Always check local regulations before paddling in new areas.