Bigfly Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.4/10
Best for: Paddlers who want a packable, versatile board for calm water and fitness
Not for: Serious racing or whitewater, where a hardshell is stiffer and faster
Bottom line: A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 11'6" long) to get you on the water.
Bigfly's 2026 inflatable stand-up paddle board stands out as a ready-to-use kit. The model is listed as a Bigfly 11'6" x 35" x 6" Inflatable Non-Slip Stand Up Paddle Board, with a paddle, a seat, and a set of 4 pieces included. This Bigfly inflatable stand-up paddle board UK option suits buyers wanting to get started straight away, with the listed 11'6" length, 35" width and 6" thickness.
Key specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 11'6" |
| Width | 35" |
| Thickness | 6" |
| Shape | Inflatable |
Pros
- Inflatable paddleboard
- 11'6" long
- Includes paddle, seat
- Packs into a bag - easy to store and transport
Cons
- Inflatables need pumping up before each paddle
- Less rigid and fast than a hardshell race board
- Stay within the weight limit and check where you'll paddle
Kayak or Paddleboard
Is it better to think of this setup as a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or a kayak? The Bigfly board is an 11'6" inflatable SUP, and the package adds a kayak seat and a kayak-style paddle, so it can be used in more than one posture. Seated use can feel closer to a sit-on-top kayak for calmer, controlled strokes. Standing use relies on the wider deck for basic balance practice and the SUP format for forward travel and easier turning. Steering and handling still differ from a dedicated kayak hull, so it works best as a mixed-use option for families, pets and travel, rather than as a replacement for a true kayak. Staying within the stated weight limit and using a buoyancy aid are important for safe paddling.
Size, Stability and Capacity
The Bigfly inflatable stand up paddle board measures 11'6" long and 35" wide. The 35" width supports stability for standing and seated paddling, with the included kayak seat. A longer, wider board is described as tracking straighter and feeling less wobbly when feet are positioned farther apart. At 35" wide, it can suit riders who want balance for casual travel, family use, or dog-friendly sessions. The board thickness is listed as 6".
Construction and What's Included
With an inflatable build, the Bigfly SUP board is designed to be easier to transport and store than rigid boards, while the 11'6" length and 6" thickness shape how it sits in the water. The package lists an inflatable stand up paddleboard at 11'6"x35"x6", plus a kayak paddle and a seat, also described as four pieces total. The board surface is stated to be non-slip and scratch resistant, and it is described as widened for stability.
On the Water
On the water, the Bigfly inflatable SUP board's 11 ft 6 in length and 6 in thickness affect how it tracks and how it feels while moving around. The 35 in width and widened shape are designed to support steadier balance for family and beginner-style use. A longer hull generally helps the board hold a straighter line, while the added width spreads the rider's weight to reduce wobble during basic stance changes. As the board glides, smooth strokes help maintain tighter tracking, since quick turns can make tracking feel less consistent. Inflatable boards can also flex slightly over uneven water, giving a softer ride feel compared with rigid boards.
Who Is This For?
This 11'6" x 35" x 6" inflatable SUP is a solid fit for riders who want more stable standing and easy handling as they focus on basic paddling rather than speed. Bigfly's board suits beginners and casual use for family trips, leisure outings, and calm water sessions. The widened dimensions can help people who are learning balance, and the included paddle and kayak seat support straightforward, low-fuss use. It is aimed at owners who want a travel-friendly inflatable format.
Where to Buy in the UK
People shopping for the Bigfly inflatable stand up paddle board in the UK typically look through online retailers that list the model as having an 11'6" length, 35" width, and 6" thickness. The package is listed as including a paddle and a seat. Many buyers start with major e-commerce sites to compare delivery timelines and shipping costs before ordering, and they check what else is included beyond the paddle and seat. Some shoppers also consider specialty water-sport retailers, but stock can vary and physical inspection is not guaranteed. Safety guidance focuses on wearing a buoyancy aid, staying within the stated weight limit, and using the board in an appropriate location for the paddler's ability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bigfly worth it?
For getting out on the water without the cost, storage and transport of a hardshell, the Bigfly (an inflatable paddleboard) is a practical, packable choice that comes with paddle, seat. Whether it suits you depends on your experience and where you'll paddle. Check the current Amazon UK price, as watersports gear is heavily discounted off-season.
Is the Bigfly a kayak or a paddleboard?
The Bigfly is an inflatable stand-up paddleboard (SUP) - you stand and paddle with a single long paddle. SUPs are great for a full-body workout, calm water and versatility; many now include a seat so you can kayak-sit too. Inflatable SUPs pack into a backpack, so they're easy to store and transport.
How long is the Bigfly?
The Bigfly is 11'6" long. On paddleboards, longer boards glide faster and track straighter (better for touring), while shorter, wider boards are more stable and manoeuvrable (better for beginners and surf). On kayaks, longer means faster and straighter; shorter is more nimble. Match the length to how and where you'll paddle.
What is the Bigfly made from?
The Bigfly is inflatable. Inflatable designs pack down small for easy storage and transport and are forgiving on knocks; hardshells are stiffer and faster but need roof bars and storage space. For most recreational paddlers, a quality inflatable is the practical choice.
What comes with the Bigfly?
The Bigfly comes with paddle, seat. Most inflatable kits include the essentials to get on the water - typically a paddle, a pump, a carry backpack and a fin, and often a repair kit. Check the listing for exactly what's included so you're not buying extras separately.
Are inflatable paddleboards any good?
Yes - modern inflatable paddleboards with drop-stitch construction pump up rigid and stable, perform well for recreational paddling, and pack into a backpack for easy storage and transport. They're the practical choice for most people without space for a hardshell. Serious racers and whitewater paddlers may still prefer hardshell, but for calm water and touring, inflatables are excellent.