The Pros and Cons Of Electric SUP Boards

In the last few years, you have likely seen paddlers miraculously gliding through the water on SUP boards without dipping a paddle in the water. Electric motorized SUP boards are the latest craze in watersports, and while this trend is still new, it’s already becoming popular. If you’re just finding out about this innovation in the SUP world, you’ll want to know all the pros and cons before purchasing an eSUP board.

Electric SUP boards make it easier to paddle long distances, and are helpful for beginners and those with mobility issues. They are environmentally friendly and quiet, and these boards often self-inflate and have added features like built-in lights. Some downsides to eSUPs include the expensive price tag and repair costs. These boards are usually bulkier than other inflatable SUP boards, and the batteries in these electric motors have limitations.

Electric SUP boards are unquestionably one of the hottest new items on the market for paddling lovers. Before you get wrapped up in this latest craze, however, it’s essential to learn more about the pluses and minuses these paddling vessels offer. Keep reading to learn all the reasons why an electric SUP board could be right for you, as well as reasons why you should hold off on investing in one for now.

The Benefits Of Electric SUP Boards

1. Makes Paddling Easier

The most obvious benefit of a motorized SUP is that it makes the act of paddling much easier. They are similar to most electric bikes in that you can exert as much or as little effort as you want on the water.

You can still get a great workout, but it’s also possible to exert less effort and even take brief breaks while still making progress. If you love being on the water but don’t love the constant exertion required while paddling, then an electric SUP board could be the perfect solution.

2. Great For Those With Mobility Issues

Paddling presents many challenges for those with mobility issues. Whether you have a temporary injury, flexibility issues, or a permanent physical impairment, SUP boarding might be difficult, or even impossible.

Electric SUP boarding assists paddlers who can’t exert as much physical energy as others. It can make paddling possible for those who had previously written off this watersport as impossible.

3. Perfect For Long Distance Paddlers

If you enjoy long paddling adventures but sometimes lack the stamina required, then an electric motor can be a gift. While it’s possible to take an inflatable SUP board on a long adventure, it’s a lot easier to accomplish this when you have some motorized assistance.

For those who enjoy SUP fishing adventures, an electric SUP can be a blessing. The motor helps propel you forward while you focus on casting and reeling.

4. EcoFriendly And Quiet

Since the motors on eSUP boards are electric, they don’t add any toxic chemicals to the ocean. Instead, they are an eco-friendly way to move on the water. While there are many different types of electric motors used on these boards, they are almost always quiet in operation.

A quiet motor is helpful for several reasons. For one, it allows you to enjoy your pristine surroundings. Quiet motors are also less likely to scare fish and other wildlife, which is essential for nature lovers.

5. A Highly-Mobile Electric Vessel

One great perk to a motorized and inflatable SUP board is that it is one of the most compact and mobile electric vessels. If you love paddling but don’t have access to a car, then most motorized water vessels are out of the question.

An inflatable SUP board, even most electric motorized models, can be carried in a backpack. This ease of transport is a significant advantage for those who want something with a motor but can’t carry bulky items.

6. Many Electric SUP Boards Are Self-Inflating And Have Lights

Anyone who owns an inflatable paddling vessel knows that manually pumping is a workout. It can tire you out before you even launch your vessel. One great benefit of many electric SUP boards is that they self-inflate, which eliminates the need for manual labor.

In addition to built-in pumps, some electric SUP boards come with other fantastic added features. LED lights are often added to electric SUP boards, which makes paddling at night safer and more enjoyable.

Reasons To Reconsider Buying An Electric SUP Board

1. High Price Tag

The biggest drawback to electric SUP boards is the price. These boards can cost more than twice as much as a standard inflatable SUP board. The high price tag can make eSUP boards unattainable for paddlers on a budget.

Since this technology is still new and evolving, there isn’t the same competition in the market as there is with regular SUP boards. If you are on the fence about purchasing an electric SUP, consider waiting a year or two, as more affordable models might become available if interest persists.

2. Often Difficult To Repair

The electric motors on these boards, especially those that use jet propulsion, are complicated and challenging to repair. Therefore, if the motor stops functioning, it could be costly to repair the product.

If you purchase an eSUP board, consider buying from a brand that offers a solid extended warranty on the motor.

3. Battery Engines Can Be Limiting

Another potential downside to owning an electric SUP board is the limited lifespan of these motors. Since they run off a battery, the motoring time is limited. Motors can last anywhere from one hour to over four hours, depending on various factors.

Those who want to use the motor at full speed will find that it won’t last too long. Once the battery dies, you must paddle without assistance, which can be a problem for those with mobility issues or injuries.

4. Usually Heavier And Bulkier Than Traditional SUP Boards

For those who choose inflatable SUP boards due to their lightweight nature and ease of transport, an electric SUP board can pose some challenges. While some electric SUP brands feature a sleek design, they are still typically heavier and bulkier than the average inflatable SUP.

If you don’t have a car or walk a long distance to your launch location, the weight of an electric SUP board can be taxing.

5. Potential For Increased Drag

All paddling vessels are designed to create the least amount of drag possible. The streamlined design allows you to move quickly through the water without using more energy than necessary. Adding additional hardware, like an electric motor, almost always creates more drag.

This added drag isn’t an issue when the motor is running, as it propels you forward. If, however, you paddle without the motor, you may notice the added drag. There is also an increased risk of collecting debris, like seaweed, underneath your paddling vessel.