paddleboarders riding future series boards on wave
paddleboarders riding future series boards on wave

Future Series Focus - Which Type Of Inflatable Paddle Board Is Right For Me?

Written by Lydia Burdett /

Whether you are an experienced paddleboarder or a newcomer to the sport, the key to choosing the right inflatable stand-up paddle board (SUP) is understanding the variety of boards available, each tailored to specific activities, experience levels, and water types. At Red, we have developed the Future Series range of SUP boards to ensure that there is something for everyone, whatever your goals. 

1. Freeride Paddle Boards

These all-round boards are perfect for beginners or those who want versatility. With three sizes currently available including two Compact designs (11’0” and 9’2”), there’s a board for all levels of newbie or casual paddler in the Freeride range. Each is designed with stability at the very centre of the board construction, so you can expect this type of board to be wider than others you might’ve seen or experienced - and tougher too, thanks to our leading MSL technology

The lightweight and streamlined profile of an all-round inflatable paddle board like our Freeride boards is particularly suited to flat water, light surf, and recreational paddling - the type of conditions you should be paddling in most as a beginner. However, an all-round board will still be right to you when your skills do progress, thanks to features including cargo system storage for your gear for longer trips and either twin click fins or a US fin box for superior tracking across all kinds of conditions. 

2. Touring Paddle Board

A touring SUP is perfect for longer trips and intermediate-level paddleboarders, with a narrow shape that’s faster and more efficient over long distances. Our Future Series selection is designed specifically to offer effortless glide which really does make them a great choice for those looking to take their paddleboarding to the next level without running the risk of over-exertion. 

However, it’s a false assumption that a touring paddle board is only the right pick if you’re looking to upgrade your inflatable paddle board. Anybody who wants to explore the coastline or go on extended paddling adventures will find our touring SUPs the perfect companion. While these boards are undoubtedly nippier and more efficient, they offer these features without compromising on the versatility and stability of the all-round board you might know and love.

Red Equipment - ROW
Red Equipment - ROW
Red Equipment - ROW

3. Specialist SUPs

If you’re channelling your skills into a specific type of paddleboarding - think racing, white-water or surfing - then a specialist SUP board will be the right option for you. Our Future Series includes two specialist SUP picks: the Wild 9’6” and Elite 14’0”.

For competitive racers, look to our racing inflatable paddle board - the Elite. This slender SUP is longer and narrower than the rest of our Future Series range and these features allow it to cut through the water more quickly and with less effort on your part than if you were to race on one of its counterparts. It also features a hard-release Speed Tail, so drag certainly shouldn’t be an issue on race day. 

For raw adventurers, hit the rapids in the Wild inflatable paddle board. With a significantly shorter specialised profile, it might look like the little sibling of the mightier-looking Elite board but it most certainly packs a punch in its own right. The high-volume 280L design and pronounced rocker profile keep stability in even the roughest white water conditions, while the ultra-grippy deckpad ensures you can keep the right stance and footing as you tear through the water. 

Choose Your Inflatable Paddle Board With Red

Whether you are after a versatile all-rounder or a specialised inflatable paddle board for a specific sport, the Future Series range redefines inflatable paddleboarding and with ten different SUP boards to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

The whole range of boards is built using cutting-edge design, in MSL double-drop-stitch construction which is lighter, stiffer and has improved performance across all conditions. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about which board is right for you or would like to know more about what makes our boards stand out head and shoulders above the rest. 

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