Family Beach Days: Choosing Between an Inflatable Bodyboard and Kids SUP
I’ve spent 20 years on the water, from the crowded peaks of Bondi to the family-friendly lagoons in Hawaii. One thing I've learned: if the kids aren't having fun, nobody is. Most parents make the mistake of buying gear that is too big or too heavy for their children to handle.
When you're deciding on isup vs sup, always go inflatable for family trips. You can pack three boards in the boot of a car instead of strapping one giant hard board to the roof. Plus, blow up sup technology is now stiff enough that you won't feel the difference on the water.
For the Wave Seekers: The Inflatable Bodyboard
If your family spends time at Bondi Beach or Waikiki, you know the waves are the main event. Traditional hard bodyboards are bulky and take up too much space. If you want something that fits in a backpack but still performs, an inflatable version is the answer.
The Travel-Ready 105cm Wave Glider Inflatable Bodyboard is better for families because it packs down to nothing. It hits 10 PSI, which makes it rigid enough to catch real surf, but soft enough that kids won't get bruised if they take a tumble.
Turn your beach day into adventure with the 105cm Wave Glider Inflatable Bodyboard – ideal for families, beginners, and surf lovers chasing waves at Australia’s Bondi Beach, Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach, or your local shore. Crafted from high-density drop-stitch PVC, it’s rigid (10 PSI inflation) yet flexible, gliding smoothly on small-to-medium waves. The textured anti-slip IXPE deck + 5 reinforced grab handles keep you locked in place, even in choppy surf at Australia’s Gold Coast or Hawaii’s North Shore coves. Safety comes standard: a coiled wrist leash prevents board loss, and rounded edges avoid bumps (kid-friendly for 6+). Portability wins: Deflate in 1 minute, roll into a backpack-sized bag – no bulky hard boards to haul to Bondi’s crowded shores or pack for Waikiki getaways. It fits in beach totes, trunks, or backpacks for easy travel.
For the Explorers: The Dedicated Kids SUP Board
I often see kids trying to paddle a 10ft adult board. They can barely reach the water over the side, and the wind blows them around like a sail. This is the fastest way to make a kid quit the sport. A best paddle board for beginners is one that actually fits the rider.
The WERSIY Kids & Teens Inflatable SUP (245cm) is better for beginners because the 76cm width and 245cm length are perfectly scaled for 4-16 year olds. It’s light enough at 5.5kg that they can carry it themselves, giving them a sense of independence at the beach.
WERSIY Kids & Teens Inflatable SUP Series is entry-level water gear for 4-16 year olds, available in vibrant colorways like "Alpine White" and "Alpine Mist Green". Crafted from 0.9mm thick drop-stitch PVC, the 5.5kg lightweight design is easy for families to carry, while its puncture-resistant feature handles bumps in shallow beach areas effortlessly. The 76cm wide board + 70% coverage non-slip EVA deck pad ensures kids stand steadily in the calm bays of Gold Coast or the gentle surf zones of Waikiki, significantly reducing slipping risks. The 245×76×15cm golden size fits heights 120-170cm with a 100kg max load, supporting parent-child co-riding—whether exploring shallow-water creatures at Burleigh Heads Beach or playing in the clear waters of Hanauma Bay. Accessories include a 1.2m telescoping mini aluminum paddle, a fast air pump, a cartoon fin and an A4 storage bag.
Direct Advice: The Pumping Strategy
Don't waste 15 minutes of your precious beach time hand-pumping three different boards. You’ll be too tired to enjoy the water.
Pro Tip: Rockerwave doesn't sell pumps because of shipping logistics. You should go to a local store in Sydney, Auckland, or Honolulu and buy a 12V paddle board pump. An electric pump for sup boards lets you set the pressure, walk away, and apply sunscreen while the work gets done for you.
Comparing Family Water Gear
| Feature | Wave Glider Bodyboard | WERSIY Kids SUP |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Catching Waves / Surfing | Flat Water / Exploration |
| Board Weight | 2.5kg (Very Light) | 5.5kg (Lightweight) |
| Max Capacity | 100kg | 100kg |
| Setup Time | 2 Minutes | 5 Minutes |
Don't Trash Your Gear
The salt and sun in Australia and Hawaii will eat through your gear if you don't take care of it. Rinse everything with fresh water after every use.
When you get home, don't leave your boards in a pile in the corner. Learn how to store paddle boards properly. A sup board rack or a paddle board wall rack in your garage keeps the PVC safe from rats, grit, and accidental punctures. Proper paddle board storage means your boards will be ready for next summer.
Final Thoughts
The best family memories happen on the water. Get the Kids SUP Board for the calm bays and the Wave Glider Bodyboard for the surf days. Grab a pump locally, set up a rack at home, and enjoy the summer.
Ready to gear up? Shop the Rockerwave collection today and make this summer unforgettable.
