There’s nothing quite like paddling along on a lake or river atop a raft. The feeling of freedom you enjoy out on the water is as memorable as it is incomparable.
Is the SereneLife paddle board the right rafting option to help you maximize those memorable moments? Let’s take a look.
What to Look For in Paddle Boards
When it comes to checking out different paddle board features, one of the first things you’ll want to consider is what kind of material is used. You don’t want your paddle board to pop like a balloon when it strikes a twig or a rock, which is why you’ll want to make sure that the board is made from something durable, such as PVC material. Many boards also employ drop stitching, which is a method of stitching the different layers of material together so that they’re even more strongly bonded together.
Layers
Speaking of layers, that’s another thing you’ll want to check – how many are there, and how thick is the board? The more layers, the thicker the board, in general, though that isn’t a hard and fast rule. A thicker board can often be a more stable board. On the other hand, a thinner, more lithe board can be more maneuverable, which can be useful if you’re looking to do things such as surfing or paddling at greater speeds.
Purpose
You’ll thus want to pay a fair amount of attention to what you’re looking to use your paddle board for – fishing? Racing and river rafting? Yoga? Size matters, and it plays a big role here. For example, longer boards are better for longer trips, and can also add more glide power. On the other hand, wider boards are better for things such as yoga, giving you more space to spread out and balance without worrying that a bit of displaced weight one way or the other will tip you into the water.
You’ll also want to check and see how much weight the board in question can support.
Board Thickness
Board thickness is also a big deal. Below six inches, boards are considered to be on the thinner side, which can mean they’re more maneuverable but may also be less stable, especially for beginners. Above six inches, they are considered to be on the thicker side, which can potentially be more stable, although you may start to lose your balance anyway if the board is too rigid and raises your center of gravity.
Time to Inflate/Deflate
Finally, since this board is inflatable, you’ll want to spare a thought as to how long it takes to inflate and deflate. You probably aren’t going to wait around for your board to deflate after you’ve just been on the water for hours, and it can be pretty maddening to have to wait for a board’s lengthy inflation time when you’re itching to get out on the water. Take a look at how fast and easy the inflation and deflation time is for any board you’re considering.
Features of the SereneLife Paddle Board
Some of the most notable features to take into consideration when checking out the SereneLife inflatable stand up paddle board include:
- 10 ft long x 30 in. wide
- 6 in. thick
- 6 lbs
- Weight capacity of 275 lbs (ideally less)
- Coiled SUP leash
- Adjustable paddle
- Air pump
- Repair kit
- Backpack
- Single layer of PVC with drop stitching
Here you can check a good overview video by Tennessee Trekker:
Weight Capacity
One interesting quirk to note here is that while the weight capacity of this Serene Life paddle board is technically 275 lbs, it actually does better with riders who are several pounds less. You should still be fine at around 240 lbs, but if you’re on the heavier side, you may want to consider other models.
Stability
In terms of stability, while this model is not as stable as some other options, the Serene Life paddle board still has a fair amount of stability for its size. At 10 feet and that aforementioned weight capacity, it’s really better suited to shorter, smaller, more petit passengers. In other words, if you’re LeBron James-sized, you might need a paddle board that’s more than a tad bigger.
For those who are more within this model’s size range, however, the Serene Life paddle board offers a very balanced experience. That can be a plus or minus depending on what you’re looking for. On the one hand, it means that there’s really no area where this board does badly. If you’re a beginner and are looking for a board that can do a bit of everything while you get your water legs, this may be a good one to consider.
Speed
On the other hand, however, if you’re looking for a specialty board built for speed that will cut across the water at great speed, this probably isn’t it. The SereneLife inflatable stand up paddle board isn’t “slow,” to be fair, but it isn’t especially fast either. Again, it’s pretty basic and balanced. This model does do a good job of sustaining momentum, so if you can get yourself going, you may be able to enjoy medium speed or a bit better – just be prepared to really put your arms into it paddling. And hey, that isn’t the worst thing – if you want a balanced paddle board that will really give you a workout, the SereneLife inflatable stand up paddle board is surprisingly good in that regard.
Maneuverability
The same holds true for this paddle board’s maneuverability. The decent length, lightweight build, flat bottom, and rounded noise all combine for a board that may be a bit slower but is, as a consequence, easier to maneuver than other options – again, assuming you’re willing to work with it by giving your arms a workout.
Also, the same goes with doing yoga on this board. Can you do it? Yes. Are there boards that are wider and better suited to that? Yes. This is another case where size really does matter. If you’re small enough to fit this board, or are a yoga pro, you should be able to do some yoga poses fine, but if you’re on the larger side or are just starting out with yoga or paddle boarding, trying to keep your balance while posing is just asking for a splash-down right into the water.
Portability
Transportation and portability are also a mixed bag. On the one hand, the lightweight nature of this board makes it less of a schlep to carry, but on the other hand, a lack of handles can make carrying a slick board a bit tricky.
At six inches thick, the SereneLife paddle board is, in keeping with its all-around and highly balanced design, right in the middle range in terms of board thickness.
Finally, the SereneLife paddle board is relatively easy to inflate and deflate with ease thanks to the included pump and how easily it connects to the board’s valve. It does not take too long to inflate or deflate, and doing either or packing it up after you’re done is a snap.
Users’ Experience
So far users have responded to the SereneLife paddle board in an overall positive manner. They have pointed out what a balanced board this is, and how it can suit people who are looking to get into paddle boarding without wanting to be on the hook for a pricey boat or having to worry about the positives and negatives of the board they’ve selected. With this board, beginners should be good to go – as long as they fit the weight capacity.
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Users have been pleased with how well-suited this paddle board is for recreational use. Fishing, surfing small waves and, yes, even some yoga are all activities users have reported being able to do while aboard this model.
That being said, users have also pointed to that all-around nature as the biggest drawback for the SereneLife paddle board as well. It’s the classic case of something being the Jack of All Trades but a Master of None. Users have noted that this model definitely isn’t a speedster, so if you’re looking for raw speed and glide power, look elsewhere. In addition, some users who are at the edge or above that 275-pound weight capacity or are on the taller side have found keeping their balance while doing yoga on this board a bit tough.
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Still, with the intent of this being for smaller paddle boarders and those looking for an easy board to start out with, you can’t fault this board for delivering what it promises.
Pros or Cons
- Nice and balanced
- Can give you a good workout
- Maneuverable
- Lightweight design
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- No handles
- More professional models are faster
- Other models can support more weight and yoga poses
Is the SereneLife Paddle Board Worth Your Money?
Our rating: 
4.7 / 5
It’s very clear how this board is structured and at whom it is targeted. If you are on the larger side or are looking for an elite glide power board, you’re likely to be disappointed. However, if you’re on the smaller to medium side and are looking for a board that offers a very balanced experience, or are new to paddle boarding, this option may be a good way to make some water-bound memories.