The market is full of inflatable paddle boards from 100 to 1,500 EUR. Prices, models and specs blur together, and choosing gets hard. In this article we compare four brands VAKA Sport carries: JBAY.ZONE, Amber, WildSup and NRS. Each has its own strengths and suits a different paddler.

Amber: when the budget is tight but quality matters

Amber is the most practical choice for anyone who wants to start paddling without a big budget. Prices from 139 to 399 EUR.

Inflatable SUP with accessories
A complete SUP paddle board set with paddle, pump and backpack
Inflatable SUP with accessories
A complete SUP paddle board set with paddle, pump and backpack

The Amber range has two lines. The Lite series uses single-layer construction. It is lighter and cheaper, ideal as a first paddle board. The V2 series has a double layer, so it is stiffer and more durable.

Best for: beginners, families with children, and anyone who wants to try SUP for their first summer.

Most popular models:

JBAY.ZONE: Italian design and strong construction

JBAY.ZONE is an Italian brand whose paddle boards stand out for double PVC construction and striking design. Prices from 199 to 649 EUR. All JBAY paddle boards have a double layer, and the premium models (Rush, Eddie Colla, Pongo 3D) offer higher quality and a distinctive style.

In the JBAY range you will find every type of paddle board: all-round (Delta), touring (Comet), fishing with a seat (Kame KX260) and even Wind-SUP (Comet WJ2 with a sail).

Best for: mid-budget paddlers who want strong construction and good value for money.

Most popular models:

WildSup: the premium segment with character

WildSup paddle boards are in the highest price category (from 799 to 1,399 EUR), but for that price you get one of the best paddle boards on the market. Each model has an animal name and a matching design that sets WildSup apart from every other brand.

WildSup uses top-quality double PVC fusion technology for excellent stiffness and durability. These boards take 20+ PSI and feel remarkably solid underfoot.

Best for: experienced paddlers who paddle regularly and want the best quality and are ready to invest.

Most popular models:

NRS: professional class from the USA

NRS is an American water sports legend whose paddle boards are used not only by enthusiasts but also by rescue services worldwide. Prices from 545.99 to 1,199 EUR. It is the most expensive segment in the VAKA range, but the build quality and materials are of the very highest level.

NRS paddle boards stand out for the highest pressure (up to 25 PSI), the strongest drop-stitch fabric and very precise handling on the water. They are lighter than most competitors at the same stiffness level.

Best for: serious paddlers, anglers, rescue professionals and anyone buying one paddle board for many years.

Most popular models:

Comparison table

CriterionAmberJBAY.ZONEWildSupNRS
Price rangefrom 139 to 399 EURfrom 199 to 649 EURfrom 799 to 1,399 EURfrom 545.99 to 1,199 EUR
ConstructionSingle / Double layerDouble layerFusion premiumPremium drop-stitch
PSI pressure12–1515–1818–2220–25
Range of typesAll-round, TouringAll-round, Touring, Fishing, Wind-SUPAll-round, Touring, TandemAll-round, Touring, Fishing, Rescue
Best featurePriceValue for moneyDesign and stiffnessProfessional quality
Warranty2 years2 years2 years2 years

What to choose by budget?

Up to 250 EUR: Amber Lite or V2 series. You get the full set you need and can start paddling straight away.

250–500 EUR: JBAY.ZONE Delta or Comet. Stronger construction, better paddles, more choice.

500–900 EUR: JBAY Rush, WildSup Black Moose or NRS Clipper. A premium experience that will last for many years.

Over 900 EUR: WildSup Royal Panda/King Lion or NRS Heron/Clean. Professional class, perfect in every detail.

Frequently asked questions

Which brand is best for beginners?

Amber and the JBAY.ZONE Delta series. Both offer stable all-round paddle boards with a full set at an affordable price. The Amber ACE 10.0 V2 and JBAY Delta D2 are the most popular choices for a first paddle board.

Are cheaper paddle boards really worse?

Cheaper paddle boards more often use single-layer construction, which is less stiff. But for calm paddling on a lake it is quite enough. You will only feel the difference at higher pressure or in stronger wind.

Is it worth paying 800+ EUR for a paddle board?

If you paddle regularly (10+ times a season), yes. Premium paddle boards are stiffer, lighter and more durable. They track better, respond faster to paddle strokes and are more enjoyable on the water. If you paddle a few times a summer, a cheaper board will do the job.

Do all these paddle boards come with a warranty?

Yes. VAKA Sport gives a 2-year warranty on all paddle boards, regardless of brand or price.

Read also

Browse the full range of inflatable paddle boards or contact us by email at [email protected] and we will help you pick a paddle board to suit your needs and budget.

Read also: How to choose an inflatable paddle board: the complete guide