Before launching any inflatable vessel, you must try to fill it to its maximum recommended PSI. Avoid launching inflatables in sharp and rocky environments, and stay clear of sharp hazards when you’re on the water. Bring an emergency repair kit, especially on longer journeys, and always wear your PFD. Stick to coastal routes rather than venturing into the open ocean, and paddle on calm days with minimal wind whenever possible.

Standup paddleboards can be heaven out on the water, but a little hellish back on terra firma. Chalk much of it up to transportation and storage issues. Rigid boards are solid performers but will likely have to be transported atop your car. And good luck storing something taller than a basketball hoop in the average closet. Inflatables are far easier to transport and store, but the inflation/deflation routine every time you want to ride can be a hassle. Innovo+’s Challenger joins a very short list of SUPs offering a third alternative. Made from rotomolded, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), it separates into three sections for easy transport and storage, then locks together to create a rigid board once it’s time to ride.

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