Wider boards are more stable but slower in the water; longer boards are less manoeuvrable but more buoyant. The overall shape ranges from bulbous to slim and shark-like. The slimmer and sharkier the board, the more suitable it is for racing and surf-style activities, but these are fairly advanced operations, so choose based on stability rather than flashiness, to begin with. To start out, you'll be looking for either an all-rounder or a touring-style SUP if you plan to travel longer distances, but either should be relatively stable and tractable to learn the basics on. If you want to go out paddle boarding with a friend but don't want to end up in the inevitable situation where one of you goes faster, and you get split up, the Red 15'0 Tandem MSL Inflatable Paddle Board is a great – if expensive – choice. It's a tandem touring board that's ideal for exploring with a partner while having a relaxed and chatty time, and it means that either of you can take a break if you get tired without the other having to slow down or stop.

Another material used in higher-end boats is “drop-stitch”, a strengthened PVC that allows for much higher pressure inflation. These kayaks feel much more like hard-body boats, but are also much more expensive. What else do I need? Ask yourself whether you'll be paddling on flat water (lakes and calm rivers), touring (long distances in bays and oceans) or if you'd like the flexibility to cover all types of water. Experienced paddlers who can handle both calm and choppy water might choose a touring SUP board, or one that's fit for yoga or fishing. The outdoor water sport sees a rider stand on a large, floating SUP board and use their paddle to move across the water. Excellent for all ages and great for working on your balance and core strength, stand up paddle boarding is now more accessible than ever. The overall build quality is excellent and there’s plenty of protection from the elements thanks to a large cover that zips over most of the opening. It certainly feels like it could handle the gnarliest of adventures with ease.You could spend your sunny days on land – or you could kayak. Whether your dream paddle is a slow meander across glassy water or a multi-day trek exploring Britain’s network of canals, inflatable kayaks could be the boat for you. But regardless of whether you’re a novice or an expert, navigating the many available inflatable options is tougher than Class IV rapids. The Portofino 10ft inflatable stand-up paddle board kit is an eminently affordable, robust, easy-to-use board that works very well on calmer waters. A broad nose and wide, flat tail add stability, making the Portofino even more beginner-friendly, and a drop-stitched core gives it a uniform shape that helps it move efficiently over the water. As you'd expect, the bundle includes everything you need to get started SUPing, and you can even add a kayak conversion kit (sold separately) to make it more versatile. Of course, there are downsides to choosing an inflatable paddle board over a solid one. They're lighter than solid boards so they're slower in windy conditions.

They also hurt less if you fall on them and while hard boards are known for offering better performance and speed, an inflatable board has numerous advantages - including cost.

Key specs – Total weight: 13kg; Length: 360cm; PSI: 3.0; Material: Nitrilon; How much can it carry? 180kg; Accessories? Bag, repair kit, skeg/keel, but no paddles or pump Able to withstand class III and IV rapids, it features eight self-bailing ports, ample tie-down points and a front action camera mount to capture it all.