BEST 34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS
- BEST FOR BIG PADDLERS: Glide O2 Retro 10’6
- BEST FOR UP TO INTERMEDIATE PADDLERS: BOTE HD Aero 11′6″
- BEST AFFORDABLE: Bay Sports Basix 10’8
- BEST ALL-AROUND: Blackfin Model XL
COMPARISON OF MY BEST 34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS
| PRODUCT | PRICE RANGE | USE | DIMENSIONS | WEIGHT | CAPACITY | COMES WITH | REVIEW | SHOP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BEST FOR BIG PADDLERS Glide O2 Retro 10’6 |
High | All-Around | 10’6″x33.5″x6” | 23 lbs | 400 lbs | – Wheeled backpack – Paddle – Fin – Leash – Repair Kit – Kayak seat – Carry strap |
Jump to Review |
Check Price on GlideSUP.com |
BEST FOR UP TO INTERMEDIATE PADDLERS BOTE HD Aero 11′6″ |
High | All-Around | 11′6″x34″x6″ | 30 lbs | 315 lbs | – Backpack – Pump – Paddle – Fin – Repair Kit – Paddle sheath – Rac receivers |
Jump to Review |
Check Price on BoteBoard.com |
BEST AFFORDABLE Bay Sports Basix 10’8 |
Low | All-around/Family board | 10’8″x34″x6″ | 19.84 lbs | 397 lbs | – Backpack- Pump – Paddle – Fins – Leash – Repair kit |
Jump to Review |
Check Price on Amazon.com |
BEST ALL-AROUND Blackfin Model XL |
High | All-Around | 11’6”x34”x6” | 29 lbs | 485 lbs | – Carbon paddle – 2-chamber 3-action pump – Leash – Roller backpack – 3 fins – Repair kit |
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Check Price on iRockerSUP.com |
34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS REVIEWS
Glide O2 Retro 10’6
BEST FOR BIG PADDLERS
| WHAT I LIKE | WHAT I DON’T LIKE |
|---|---|
| – Good for fitness – Really interesting stability – Glides smooth through the water – A little faster than we expected – Easily maneuverable – Very durable – High weight capacity – Very bright colors and graphics – Pets friendly | – Limited storage space – Tracking is not good but remains ok – Only one fin – The paddle has no length indicator |
IDEAL CHOICE FOR:
- Paddlers with pets
- People looking for a high weight capacity board
- Working out
GREAT IN/FOR:
- Flat water bodies
- Calm ocean
QUICK SPECS
- Price range: High
- Use: All-Around
- Dimensions: 10’6″x33.5″x6”
- Weight: 23 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Comes with: Wheeled backpack, Paddle, Fin, Leash, Repair Kit, Kayak seat, Carry strap
TODAY’S PRICE
Glide O2 Retro 10’6 REVIEW
- GLIDE & SPEED
The Glide O2 Retro 10’6 is a little faster than expected and feels smooth through the water.
While it is not the fastest SUP, it does a decent job keeping its gained speed.
- STABILITY
The O2 Retro stability is really interesting.
Due o its size and shape, you can even practice exercises on this board.
This board can even support two paddlers with a total weight of approximately 400 lbs.
- TRACKING
The Glide O2 Retro 10’6 does not track well but it remains acceptable.
Because the wider width of this paddle makes you paddle in a less-perfect vertical way, you have to change paddling sides more frequently to keep a straight line but nothing out of what was expected.
- MANEUVERABILITY
The Glide O2 Retro 10’6 is fun and fairly comfortable to move around on.
On this paddle, you can apply some easy turns and step-back spins.
- PORTABILITY
It is easy to carry this paddle due to its weight of only 23 lbs. Deflated in its backpack, you can even carry it on your bicycle.
Carrying this paddle out or to the water can be easy with the center handle and how long the leash is.
- EASE OF INFLATION
You can inflate the Glide O2 Retro 10’6 up to the recommended 15 PSI in less than 5 minutes using the included hand pump.
The pump nozzle will not disconnect while pumping because the connection to the board works very well.
- ACCESSORIES
Glide O2 Retro 10’6 comes with everything you will need to start having fun on the water.
The included single-chamber dual-stage hand pump is light and does not take up much space in the bag.
For its price, I expect to see a dual-chamber triple-action pump that will push out more volume and is easier to use.
The three-piece adjustable paddle you get isn’t the lightest for sure but it feels sturdy. Its ABS blade makes it float well.
What makes this paddle does not turn while you are out paddling is its handle that locks well in its place.
The wheeled backpack you get with this paddle is very sturdy and has an exterior pocket that is big enough to hold the included manual pump.
The backpack handles are decently padded, reinforce, and feels solid.
BOTE HD Aero 11′6″
BEST FOR UP TO INTERMEDIATE PADDLERS
| WHAT I LIKE | WHAT I DON’T LIKE |
|---|---|
| – High-quality construction – Paddle sheath is useful when you need your hands to take a selfie or take a sip of ش beverage – Above-expected speed – Very stiff – Its high stability inspires confidence in even the most beginners – Great for larger paddlers or ones with a lot of gear – Comes with plenty of accessories and tons of optional ones – Kit paddle is very durable – Included bag is made with high-quality materials and have heavy-duty zippers | – Does not come with a leash – The kit paddle is slightly heavy – The grippy shaft may develop blisters for some – Doesn’t track that well – Without intermediate techniques, it goes where it wants on the water – The included hand pump is not efficient but it gets the job done sufficiently |
IDEAL CHOICE FOR:
- Beginners and intermediate paddlers looking to be stable in almost all conditions
- Paddlers who need to attach a lot of accessories like anglers
- Big paddlers who need a large weight capacity
- Paddlers who will often bring a pet, kid, or equipment with them
GREAT IN/FOR:
- Recreational paddling in flat water bodies
- SUP fishing
- Ocean paddling
QUICK SPECS
- Price range: High
- Use: All-Around
- Dimensions: 11′6″x34″x6″
- Weight: 30 lbs
- Weight capacity: 315 lbs
- Comes with: Backpack, Pump, Paddle, Fin, Repair Kit, Paddle sheath, Rac Receivers
TODAY’S PRICE
BOTE HD Aero 11′6″ REVIEW
- GLIDE & SPEED
Its length of 11’6 allows it to have a fairly efficient glide across rivers and lakes, but its width of 34” and two side fins angled against its forward plane does slow it down a little, but it remains faster than expected.
- STABILITY
The Bote HD Aero 11′6″ is really very stable in most water conditions, which makes it ideal for people just starting out.
- TRACKING
Compared to Blackfin Model XL, the BOTE HD Aero 11′6″ does not track well.
As expected from any wide paddleboard, the 34” width makes shorter-armed paddlers have difficulties executing perfectly vertical strokes, which forces you to change side more often to keep a straighter line.
- MANEUVERABILITY
Due to the weight and the size of this paddle, this paddleboard is not nimble but you can still turn it.
Because the tail of this board is very wide and the deck pad is extended to the rear end, you can fairly easily execute step-back turns when needed.
- PORTABILITY
Carrying this board in its backpack with everything included feels comfortable on the back.
Not having wheels on the bag of a 30 lbs board is frustrating, especially for small or less fit paddlers.
- EASE OF INFLATION
The included paddle gets the job done sufficiently.
Expect a 7 to 15 minutes workout inflating this board.
- ACCESSORIES
The Bote HD Aero 11′6″ comes with everything needed to start having fun on the water.
The hand pump you get in the package is a single chamber one, which is less efficient compared to premium ones.
The backpack is made with high-quality materials, has heavy-duty zippers, and feels relatively comfortable on the back.
Unfortunately, it does not have wheels that make transport easier.
The kit paddle is very durable, but is slightly heavy and has a shaft that is grippy but may develop blisters for some. Even though this paddle remains more on the entry-level, it is not a bad one.
Bay Sports Basix 10’8
BEST AFFORDABLE
| WHAT I LIKE | WHAT I DON’T LIKE |
|---|---|
| – Tracks straight – Glide smooth – Very stable – Maneuverable and easy to paddle with – Durable construction – Light and easy to carry – Comes with a very comfortable and well-made backpack – Affordable price | – The kit paddle is heavy – The kit pump is slower than dual-chamber pumps |
IDEAL CHOICE FOR:
- People looking for a very stable SUP for a beginner
- Big paddlers looking for a light enough paddle board with a large weight capacity
- Paddlers seeking a board to bring a kid, pet, or another adult with them
GREAT IN/FOR:
- Calm water bodies
- Choppy lake or marina
- Ocean qnd river paddling
QUICK SPECS
- Price range: Low
- Use: All-around/Family board
- Dimensions: 10’8″x34″x6″
- Weight: 19.84 lbs
- Weight capacity: 397 lbs
- Comes with: Backpack, Pump, Paddle, Fins, Leash, Repair kit
TODAY’S PRICE
Bay Sports Basix 10’8 REVIEW
- GLIDE & SPEED
Even though it is not the fastest paddle board it still glide smoothly and due to its raised nose rocker, it can tackle small chop and waves.
- STABILITY
This paddle board is very stable no matter their size and this is due to itss large volume and 34” thick width.
- TRACKING
The length and the fins of the Bay Sports Basix 10’8 helps it track straight.
- MANEUVERABILITY
Because the Bay Sports Basix 10’8 is a lightweight paddle board, even though it is wide, it still handles very well.
A few side strokes can be enough to dodge obstacles or turn it.
- PORTABILITY
Carrying this paddle to close and distant destinations is easy due to how lighter this paddle is.
With the padded bag back, both short and tall paddlers can carry eveything comfortably.
The three handles on deck makes carrying the board to and out of the water easier and possible without the help of another person.
- EASE OF INFLATION
To fully inflate this paddle using the included, expect between 10 to 15 minutes.
Even with the best SUP hand pump, I still recommend elecric paddle board pump to save your energy to when you are paddling.
- ACCESSORIES
The Bay Sports Basix 10’8 comes with everything needed to start having fun on the water.
Starting by the hand pump, it is very easy to use and comes with a deflation nozzle to deflate your board faster when you’re ready to pack up.
Compared to premium dual-chamber pumps, this one is slower.
The included backpack has very roomy main compartment that makes packing easy and a facing pouch for the fins, leash, and repair kit.
Overall, the backpack you get is very comfortable and well made.
The heavy paddle you get has a fiberglass shaft and nylon blade that makes it heavy but great for beginners or casual paddlers. Its ergonomic handle fits well in the hand, it can withstand occasional drops without cracking and in the water, it feels powerful as you propel.
Blackfin Model XL
BEST ALL-AROUND
| WHAT I LIKE | WHAT I DON’T LIKE |
|---|---|
| – Seriously stable – Very versatile – Built to last for years – Surprising speed – Tracks very well – High weight capacity – A large D-rings and mounts to attach things – Very nice kit paddle – Fairly effective hand pump – Backpack wheels make transport easier | – The kit pump does not come with a deflation nozzle – Resiste basic turning |
IDEAL CHOICE FOR:
- Expereinced paddlers looking for a board that excels in many categories
- Anglers looking for paddle board for fishing
- Beginners looking for very stable SUP
- Paddlers who often bring a kid, lots of gear, or a pet along with them
- Tall or heavy paddlers
GREAT IN/FOR:
- Flat water bodies
- Ocean and rivers
- Small wave surfing
- SUP fishing
QUICK SPECS
- Price Range: High
- Use: All-Around
- Dimensions: 11’6”x34”x6”
- Weight: 29 lbs
- Weight capacity: 485 lbs
- Comes with: Carbon paddle, 2-chamber 3-action pump, Leash, Roller backpack, 3 fins, Repair kit
TODAY’S PRICE
Blackfin Model XL REVIEW
- GLIDE & SPEED
The Blackfin Model XL speed is very impressive for a SUP with a very large weight capacity.
Compared to other bords, it is faster than the Model X and a little bit slower than the Blackfin Model V.
- STABILITY
Stability is where the Blackfin Model XL really excels.
Both beginners and experienced paddlers with lots of gear can feel stable on this bard.
- TRACKING
The Blackfin Model XL tracks very well for an all-around paddle board.
Compared to Model X, it tracks better due o its longer water line and slightly narrower width.
- MANEUVERABILITY
The 11’6” in length makes the Blackfin Model XL resist basic turns and reauires slightly more effort to change direction but it does a great job with the step-back technique.
Compared to Model X, the Model XL is less maneuverable due to its one foot longer water line.
- PORTABILITY
The wheels on the outsie of the bag makes rolling everything inside the bag simple and easy from or to the water.
- EASE OF INFLATION
The kit pump makes inflating the Blackfin Model XL fairly effective and does not leave you out of breath due to its dual chamber and triple action settings.
- ACCESSORIES
The Blackfin Model XL comes with everything needed to start having fun on the water.
The kit hand pump has dual chamber and triple action settings, which makes it very effective. Unfortunately, it does not have the deflation valve that help when you are packing up.
The kit paddle has a carbon-fiber shaft and a durable nylon blade. For a paddle that comes included, it is really very nice.
The backpack you get has nice padding on the straps and back, and lots of pockets, bungees, and straps to store and organize everything to not lose it.
The backpack wheels makes rolling it easier.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST 34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS
HULL TYPE
- Planing Hull: This type of hull is similar to the one on surfboards. It is flat and wide to ride on top of the water and it is very maneuverable.
- Displacement Hull: The pointed nose improve efficiency, making the ride smooth and fast by pushing the water around the nose to the sides.
WEIGHT CAPACITY
The board weight capacity is the total weight that the board can support. If you are close to the board limit or you exceeded it, the board will ride lower in the water and becomes inefficient to paddle.
VOLUME
The SUP board volume is expressed in liters. The higher the volume of the board, the more weight it can support.
LENGTH
- Under 10’: These boards are great for kids, great youth SUPs or surfing SUPs. Compared to long SUs, they are more maneuverable.
- 10’ to 12’: Inflatable boards in this length range makes ideal all-around or fitness SUPs.
- Above 12’6”: Long paddle boards tends to track strqighter, making great long-distance touring or fast paddling SUPs.
WIDTH
Wider paddles boards are more stable than a skinny board.
Wider paddles boads have more storage space and added stability to practice fitness.
If you are smaller, I recomend you narrower boards because they can be stable and if you are a big person, you should get a wider board, especially if you are just starting out.
FAQ
THE BEST 34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS ARE…
– BEST FOR BIG PADDLERS: Glide O2 Retro 10’6
– BEST FOR UP TO INTERMEDIATE PADDLERS: BOTE HD Aero 11′6″
– BEST AFFORDABLE: Bay Sports Basix 10’8
– BEST ALL-AROUND: Blackfin Model XL
MY BEST 34-INCH WIDE PADDLE BOARDS IS…
If you want to have fun on the water but you are on a budget, I will recommend you the Bay Sports Basix 10’8.
For just $299, you get a paddle that is very stabe, glide smooth, keeps a straight line, easy to carry, maneuverable and easy to paddle with.
Updated on March 10, 2022 by Ben