9 Best Racing Paddle Boards

As the popularity of stand-up paddle boards rises, more people are crossing over from casual users to the racing scene. But qualities loved in boards for touring, yoga, fishing, and family use are often at odds with speed. So, when it comes to going fast, long, narrow, and slim is the name of the game.

The 9 best racing paddle boards are:

1. Red Equipment 14′ Elite MSL Inflatable
2. 2023 Starboard Sprint
3. Infinity Whiplash Hollow Dugout
4. 2023 14′ SIC RS
5. One Edge 3.0
6. Fanatic Bliz
7. 2023 Starboard All Star
8. NSP Carolina Pro Carbon
9. Flying Fish Freedom Custom

Top racers often buy custom boards. But some good brands for racing SUPs are:

• Aqua Marina
• Bluefin SUP
• HALA Gear
• Infinity
• Naish
• Red 6. Equipment (Red 6. Paddle Co)
• SIC Maui
• Starboard
• One Ocean Sports
• Pau Hana

Racing boards are more expensive than your casual recreational board, especially when buying a hard board (solid) as appose to an inflatable. Getting a good hard under a thousand dollars is unlikely. There are some racing boards in the $1,300 range. But spending between $2,000 and $5,000 is pretty standard.

Prices go higher when customizing and adding features, such as fins. Also, expect to pay much more if looking to race in the unlimited category. Often the boards for these races are custom-made.

Racing stand up paddle boards are primed for speed. Thus, they sacrifice the stability found in touring boards, favoring a narrow, long, and rigid build. These boards are also thin, only 5-6 inches thick.

Racing paddle boards are generally 11-14 feet long. The primary reason is that races are divided up into three main classes based on length:

⦁ 12’6 feet
⦁ 14’ feet
⦁ Unlimited

The most popular board to race in is the 14’ foot, followed by the 12’6. The Unlimited races are less common and favor boards around 18’ with rudder systems to enable navigating the open sea. The unlimited boards are often custom-made and very expensive.

Generally, the longer the racing board, the skinnier it is, making it less stable. However, the length means it is faster and tracks straighter (which can also add speed). However, they don’t maneuver as well (consider how slowly the Titanic turned).

Width for racing boards usually relates to length, but there is variation. For example, elite riders often favor 20’-21’ inches, whereas beginning racers often use boards 24.5’-26’ inches wide, leaving the bulk of racers on boards around 23 inches.

For thickness, there is less variation, generally between 5-6. In a hard board, the thickness varies along the length, whereas the inflatable will have more consistency.

Historically, the best racing paddle boards were solid, as stiffness plays a crucial role in obtaining speed. However, technology has come a long way in the inflatable market, with some models now worth a look at.

A racing SUP board has a displacement hull similar to a kayak. It is a narrower shape, tapered at the nose, which is excellent for slicing through the water. Strokes are efficient, allowing a racer to get the most out of each paddle.

The downside to a displacement hull is that they are less stable planning hull, the preferred style for a beginner or casual paddle boarder. These are easily identified by their rounded nose and sit higher on the water. But planning hulls are slower and less agile than displacement hulls.

The technology in racing paddle boards is accelerating, offering users better and faster boards. Longer inflatables are also emerging into the racing market, which would have been laughable in the past. Thus, we’ve rounded out nine excellent racing paddle boards to suit various styles and needs.

Pros:
⦁ Forward Flex Control (FFC)
⦁ Rocker Stiffening System (RSS) Battens
⦁ 240 lb weight capacity
⦁ Built-in US Fin Box
⦁ Durable

Cons:
⦁ On the heavier side for a racing board

The l4’ Elite MSL Racing is an inflatable that is stiff enough to race. One of the primary reasons inflatables are traditionally such poor racing boards is their flexibility, especially during the springing phase. But Red Equipment, formally Red Paddle Co, has developed the revolutionary Forward Flex Control system (FFC).

FFC has a carbon rod that is set in place before inflation. In addition, two RSS battens (Rocker Stiffening System) are inserted. Together, they add stability and stiffness, virtually eliminating the nose flex.

The Elite MSL comes in two lengths: 12’6 and 14’. We prefer the 14’ for its smoother glide. Like any racing board, it will tip over easier, especially if there is wind. But for a racing SUP, it is on the wider and thicker end.

The Elite MSL is an all-rounder of a racing board thanks to its built-in US Fin Box. It allows users to place the fin according to their paddling style and the type of water or even switch it out for another fin. In addition, there is a nose runner fin to help paddlers navigate choppy water and avoid nose-diving.

The SUP is perfect for people who like to travel with their board. Its backpack holds the entire kit with padded straps that can be put away when not needed. It also has wheels, perfect for paddlers that need to fly.

Pros:
⦁ Fast
⦁ Excellent glide
⦁ Carbon drain covers
⦁ Stiff, Prepreg carbon fin
⦁ EVA Race Deflector

Cons:
⦁ Not an all-rounder choice, designed for flatwater
⦁ Heavier riders will do better on the Sprint Expedition or All Star

The 2023 Starboard Sprint is the brand’s fastest model. It is a flatwater racer built for pure speed that can be used for ultra-long distances. The 2022 model took Caterina Stenta to victory in the SUP Alp Trophy.

However, they’ve adjusted the 2023 nose to handle some light choppiness. They’ve made similar adjustments to the tail edge for the same reasons. It isn’t an all-rounder, but it can at least handle imperfect racing conditions.

For people looking for the most stable version, there is now a 29.5-inch-wide version that comes with a center Tuttle box. The large Tuttle fins will provide extra stability for those that want to use their racer for adventure paddling.

The Sprint is offered in 3 constructions:
⦁ Zero
⦁ Carbon Sandwich
⦁ New Wood Carbon (Carbon Wrap)

The Zero is their fastest and, understandably, the most expensive, followed by the Carbon Sandwich. It is 6.6 lbs (3 kg lighter) than the Sandwich and nearly 10 lbs (4.5 kg) lighter than the Wrap. It is the company’s first hollow construction yet retains the strength and stiffness needed to sprint. It has an unbelievable glide.

Pros:
⦁ Fast
⦁ Excellent glide
⦁ Lightweight
⦁ Step-tail stern for extra stability and better turns
⦁

Cons:
⦁ Not a great board for bigger or taller paddlers

The Infinity Whiplash Hollow Dugout is a 100% carbon fiber design with a hollow core. It’s aimed at racers who enjoy flatwater, but it can handle mild chop. In 2022 it one Outside Gear Guide’s Editor’s Choice award. Their 21’ board weighs almost the same as its width, making it ultra-light.

The Infinity keeps the Whiplash’s nose sharp to cut through the water. To achieve stability, the tail is flat and wide on the deck side, which because crucial when making tight turns around a buoy.

However, this “flat” tail is slightly deceptive, as the underneath of the square tail has far more shape than expected. A subtle concave along the length channels the water to the middle to allow for excellent tracking but releases it before the tail to ensure it behaves as if narrower until you need to turn.

Dugouts can feel tight in the feet, with some paddlers calling them claustrophobic. But the Infinity has done a bit of magic, making their dugout almost as wide as the board. Thus, despite their narrow design, the feet have more room than many other dugout models at wider widths.

A brilliant board for people who crave ultimate speed.

Pros:
⦁ Speed
⦁ Versatility
⦁ Performs well in flat despite being an all-water board

Cons:
⦁ Drainage could be faster

Sic Maui’s RS 14’ Rigid Super Fly’ is called “the Rocket Ship for All-Water Speed.” It’s an accessible design that paddlers can adjust to quickly, seeing immediate results.

The dugout feels wide and secure. It does sit higher than most, gaining volume but perhaps sacrificing stability. That said, it has greater stability than other speed racers, such as the Sprint.

While it is an all-water boat, it does favor the flatwater more than some others, such as the Starboard All Star. So, while it can handle chop, if that’s your normal water, this might not be the ideal choice. But this is a fantastic buy if you favor the flatwater and want something that can deal with chop when it arises.

Pros:
⦁ Quick
⦁ Lightweight
⦁ Knife-like nose
⦁ Gortex vent

Cons:
⦁ While it is an “all-water” board, its best for flatwater users
⦁ Not as fast as the Edge 2.0

The One Edge 3.0 is a flatwater board built to be quick and fast. However, it is technically an all-water board, able to take on a greater range than its predecessor, the Edge 2.0. The cost of this versatility is a wee bit of speed. Not much, but essential to know if you are strictly a flatwater racer.

One nice feature is the subtle dip to the flat standing area. It isn’t a dugout, so it doesn’t give its users that claustrophobic feel. But the slight recess aids with stability and control. In addition, they’ve reduced the wetter surface and aided tracking with the adjustments to their broad tail.

Thus, if you liked the Edge 2.0 but were frustrated at its coping ability with choppy water, you’ll enjoy the 3.0. Again, the speed is slightly less but is marginal.

Pros:
⦁ A real racing all-rounder
⦁ Isn’t fazed by chop or bumps
⦁ Stable enough for a paddler new to racing

Cons:
⦁ It isn’t as fast as their Strike in flatwater

The Fanatic Blitz is a true all-rounder option rather than a flatwater racer that can handle a spot of chop. However, it will continue to ride high and accelerate, even in rougher conditions.

Like the Edge 3.0, it isn’t a true dugout, but the recess gives some added stability. The rounded rail system also aids in keeping it upright. It also has a curved rocker line for those that enjoy a bit of surf.

Thus, while the Fanatic Blitz isn’t as fast as their Strike, their true flatwater board, it is easier to keep your balance and far more versatile. It is also faster in calm conditions than their Falcon, aimed at downwind racing.

Thus, this is a solid choice for paddlers looking for a true all-rounder who wants decent chop speed in addition to flatwater.

Pros:
⦁ EVA race deflector
⦁ Efficient drainage
⦁ Higher rails

Cons:
⦁ It won’t be as fast as their Sprint

The 2023 Starboard All Star has won SUP Connect’s Best Race Board for two years running. More importantly, racers in the 2022IFCE World’s Championship took golds in:
⦁ Long Distance
⦁ Sprint
⦁ Technical

Its premier version is the Carbon Sandwich, with the alternative being wood with a carbon wrap. The Sandwich is lighter, more durable, and has better flex control. It also has high-density PVC to extend the board’s lifespan. But the carbon wrap is only slightly heavier and at a much more affordable price.

They’ve refined the nose volume to reduce the likelihood of getting caught downwind and help it pop in choppy water.

The Starboard All Star is their easier racing board to stand in, thus promoted for entry-level racers. Nonetheless, it can still be a challenge for newbies, and heavier racers are recommended to go for their widest option, 28 inches. But for those looking for pure speed and weighing 176 lbs (80 kg) or less, the board can be as narrow as 20.5 inches.

Pros:
⦁ Excellent glide
⦁ Easy carry
⦁ The broad tail provides stable buoy turns
⦁ Accelerator Vacuum System (AVS)
⦁ Versatile

Cons:
⦁ The shorter dugout can feel tight

The NSP Carolina Pro Carbon takes the bottom shape of their classic Carolina, named after the Carolina Cup, and gave it a carbon makeover. They’ve increased the rail height and reduced the recessed area’s length, so the SUP won’t collect as much water, especially during buoy turns.

However, they haven’t sacrificed stability with these changes. Instead, they’ve lowered the center of gravity of the SUP to keep the board as stable as it was, if not better. Mind you, this still isn’t a stable board compared to the general market, as it is a racer. It’s 14’ and comes in widths as little as 20.5 inches.

But like the classic NSP Carolina, this board remains a brilliant all-rounder, perfect for those who can’t afford a racing SUP tailored to each type of water. The subtle changes have only improved it, making it slightly more efficient in bumps and faster in open water.

Pros:
⦁ Design it your way
⦁ Affordable custom

Cons:
⦁ You have to wait while it’s being made
⦁ There are limits on customizability

The Flying Fish Board Co is the secret weapon of racers on a budget. Not that Flying Fish Boards are cheap. But they provide custom builds with off-the-shelf prices. So rather than compromise for one feature over another, paddlers can get the board they’ve always wanted.

Clients begin by selecting a base model, such as the Freeglide V2 or Freedom Pro Dugout. Then they go on to pick features within the model’s parameters, including the following:
⦁ Length
⦁ Width
⦁ Thickness
⦁ Handles
⦁ Colors (Deck, racing stripes, chevron, etc.)
⦁ Deck Pad

The best board for you depends on your style. If you need an all-rounder that is easy to transport, the l4′ Elite MSL is an excellent choice. But if you are looking to stick to solid, the Starboard All Star is beloved by many for a very good reason. However, if you’ve always wanted to customize a board and could never afford it, give Flying Fish a look.