I’ll never forget the first time I bought a used paddleboard.
It was a sunny Saturday morning, and I was feeling bold. You know the type of energy that makes you think, “Yep, I totally know what I’m doing”? That was me. I’d seen a slick-looking SUP on Facebook Marketplace, and the guy selling it used words like “practically new” and “only used twice.” Plus, it was priced like a thrift store T-shirt. I was sold.
Fast-forward 48 hours: I’m standing in ankle-deep water, watching my so-called “practically new” board slowly inhale the lake. Yep—hairline cracks. Leaky seams. Soft spots. It was like paddling a waterbed.
Lesson learned, my friend.
So let’s talk about what to actually look for in a used paddleboard, because unless you enjoy sinking in front of judgmental ducks, you’ll want to know this stuff.
1. Check the Hull Like You’d Check a Used Car’s Bumper
The hull is the belly of the beast—aka the underside of the board. Run your hands along it like you’re polishing a surfboard in a shampoo commercial. You’re feeling for:
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Cracks or soft spots (the board’s version of bruised ribs)
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Delamination – when the outer skin is bubbling or peeling. Not good. That means water’s getting in.
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Warping or dents – especially near the nose or rails. If it’s shaped more like a banana than a board, walk away.
And if the seller starts explaining how “it doesn’t affect performance”? Just smile and nod—then leave.
2. Inflatables Need Extra TLC (and Air Pressure)
If you’re looking at an inflatable paddleboard, don’t assume it’s automatically the lightweight champ. Used iSUPs can have all kinds of weird baggage, especially if the owner stored it rolled up in a hot garage for two years.
Here’s your quick inflatable checklist:
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Pump it up fully—don’t skip this. Listen for leaks like it’s a balloon at a toddler’s birthday.
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Check the seams—those suckers are glue-heavy and prone to peeling with age.
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Valves should not hiss or wobble. If they do, you’re buying a future repair job.
Bonus tip: If the board smells like burnt plastic or moldy basement, run. That thing’s been through it.
3. Inspect the Fins (Because They Actually Matter)
I used to think fins were just… accessories. You know, like earrings for your board. Turns out, they’re critical for tracking and stability.
Look for:
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Cracked or chipped fins
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Bent fin boxes (especially on hardboards)
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Missing screws or wobbly bases
If a fin is duct-taped on, please—for the love of Poseidon—walk away. Or swim away, if necessary.
4. Deck Pad Drama Is Real
Ever stepped barefoot on a board only to feel like you’re standing on soggy toast? Yeah. That’s a worn-out deck pad. It’s supposed to be your traction zone, not a slip-n-slide.
Here’s what to check:
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Discoloration—faded = sun damage = dry rot.
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Peeling edges—those will curl faster than gas station pizza.
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Squish test—step on it. If your toes sink into goo, it’s seen better days.
5. Know the Brand and the Story
This one’s less tactile and more detective work.
Ask the seller:
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“How long have you owned it?”
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“Where did you store it?”
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“Ever had to repair it?”
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“Did you name it?” (If they did, they probably took care of it.)
Also, Google the brand and model. Some paddleboards are made by legit companies that back their stuff. Others are off-brand Frankenstein boards made from leftover pool noodles and hope. Know what you’re buying.
6. Bring a Paddle (Or Don’t Assume One’s Included)
Little surprise here: a paddleboard without a paddle is just… a board. Ask the seller upfront, because sometimes they “forgot where they put it” (translation: they sold it separately for an extra $50).
If they do include a paddle, check for:
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Cracks or bends
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Locking mechanism (if it’s adjustable)
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Water damage or warping
Because a janky paddle turns a chill lake cruise into a very weird arm workout.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Buy a Lemon That Floats
Buying a used paddleboard is a lot like dating in your 30s—everyone says they’re in “great condition,” but you’ve gotta check for red flags.
I’ve since bought another used board (yes, I’m still a sucker for a deal), but I knew what to look for the second time around. I inspected every inch, haggled like I was on an episode of Pawn Stars, and even made the guy inflate it on the spot. Guess what? That board’s still with me three seasons later, cruising quiet lakes like a champ.
So go find your board. Just bring this checklist, your common sense, and maybe a buddy who’s brutally honest. Trust me, it’ll save you from a whole lot of wet regrets.
Paddle Smart. Shop Smarter. Stay Dry.
Let me know if you’ve ever scored a great (or terrible) used paddleboard in the comments—I’ll trade horror stories over paddle wax.