How To Choose The Right Paddle Boards For Your Rental Business

Before you choose boards, you need to understand who will use them. Are your customers mostly tourists, beginners, or experienced paddlers? Will they paddle on calm lakes, slow rivers, or coastal waters?

Beginners: Prefer wide, stable, all-around boards

Families: Need larger boards or multi-person boards

Adventurers: Prefer touring or performance boards

Ridewave offers a variety of options to suit all these needs, from ultra-stable all-round boards to lightweight touring models.

Rental boards go through heavy use, so they must be durable, safe, and easy to use. Look for:

Durability: Choose double-layer PVC construction with reinforced rails

Stability: Wider boards with rounded noses help beginners stay balanced

Portability: Inflatable paddle boards (iSUPs) are easier to transport and store

Easy Maintenance: Boards should be easy to clean and quick to dry

Ridewave's dual-layer inflatable SUPs with anti-slip EVA decks and durable seams are perfect for rental operations.

You don't need every type of board, but offering a few key styles will increase your business's flexibility:

All-Around Boards: Great for all skill levels; most commonly rented

Touring Boards: For experienced users and long-distance paddling

Multi-Person Boards: For families or team-building activities

Surf Paddle Boards: If your location has waves, add these for more variety

Ridewave's 11'6" Touring SUP is ideal for longer rides, while their 10'6" all-around board serves as the go-to rental favorite.

Paddle board size affects balance and performance:

Width: 32" is standard for stability

Length: 10'6" to 11'6" covers most user needs

Weight Capacity: Aim for boards that support up to 130kg (280 lbs)

Offer at least one larger board (34") for heavier or nervous customers. Ridewave provides a full sizing guide for their range, helping you select the perfect lineup.

Boards used in rentals must survive repeated impacts, sun exposure, and rough handling.

Material: Dual-layer military-grade PVC

Technology: Drop-stitch construction for rigidity

Design: Reinforced seams, nose/tail bumpers, UV-resistant print

Ridewave uses I-beam inner structures and second-gen dual chambers for extra stiffness and safety, ideal for high-volume use.

Extend the life of your boards with these care tips:

Rinse with freshwater after each use

Dry completely before storage

Store in a cool, shaded area

Check inflation pressure regularly

Train staff on proper handling and deflation

Ridewave provides maintenance guidelines and offers repair kits with bulk purchases

Efficient transport and storage make a big difference in day-to-day operations.

Carts or trolleys: Move multiple boards easily

Racks: Store vertically or on walls

Storage bags: Protect from UV and debris when not in use

Ridewave boards come with wheeled backpacks for easy transport.

Make your services more attractive by bundling products:

Group packages: Boards + instructor + team games

Combo deals: Board + life jacket + dry bag

Lesson + board rental: First-time paddlers benefit most

Ridewave can customize board colors and logos to match different package tiers.

Build trust by showcasing positive feedback:

Add testimonials to your website

Share photos/videos of happy renters on social media

Encourage Google Reviews or TripAdvisor posts

Ridewave supports partners by offering professional media assets (photos, video templates, and lifestyle content).

If you're just starting your business, here are a few tips:

Start with all-around models first

Offer free basic training to clients

Use QR codes on boards for video instructions

Partner with local resorts and hotels