Salt Lake City, UT, based Glide SUP has been building paddle boards for nearly 20 years. Led by professional-kayaker-turned-paddleboarder Ken Driscoll, Glide has been pioneering stand up paddle board technology from the very beginning.
Glide still makes their venerated, and nigh-indestructible, hard boards, but has greatly expanded its line of inflatable paddle boards over the last several years.
This year, Glide has refreshed their entire lineup with new designs and new models.
Why We Recommend Glide SUPs
Glide SUP made a splash in the paddle board industry with their extra-tough Glide Surface Shield (GSS) hard boards built for taking a beating. In fact, Glide ran a regular series on YouTube called “Will It Break Wednesday” where they would throw their boards down waterfalls and buildings, hit them like a pinata and with golf balls, and otherwise try to destroy their own boards in fun and creative ways.
That same dedication to durability made its way into Glide’s inflatable SUPs as well. Built with high-density reinforced PVC and welded interior seams, Glide iSUPs are just as durable (more durable, even) than their GSS series boards. Glide believes in their construction so much that they carry a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
But durability without usability isn’t helpful. The Glide iSUPs, from their classically-shaped all-around to their fishing, whitewater, and touring boards, are all shaped for performance and usability.
Glide’s paddle boards have consistently been great performers, are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the new 2024 designs look amazing.
Glide Inflatable Paddle Boards Compared
| section-hd | Isle Inflatable SUPs | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| O2 Retro | O2 Retro | All-Around 10’6 x 32" x 6" Weight TBD | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| 02 Lotus | 02 Lotus | Yoga 10'6" x 35" x 6" 22 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| O2 Angler | O2 Angler | Fishing 11'0" x 36" x 6" 23 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| O2 Quest | O2 Quest | Touring 12'6” x 30" x 6" 20 pounds | Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price |
| O2 Mako | O2 Mako | Fishing, Pedal Drive 12'6” x 35" x 6" 26 pounds | Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price |
| O2 Lochsa | O2 Lochsa | Whitewater 9’6 x 35" x 6" 25 pounds | Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price |
What’s New for 2024
Glide has completely refreshed their iSUP lineup for 2024. This year there are not only new graphics and colors, but more color options for the O2 Lotus and O2 Angler as well. The included kayak seat has also seen a total redesign with an inflatable seat cushion as well as an inflatable back panel for increased comfort.
In addition to these visual changes for existing models, Glide has also introduced a new model – the O2 Mako Fishing SUP. This new hybrid iSUP/kayak is longer and slightly narrower than the O2 Angler making it better for reaching those far-away fishing holes. It also has a port in the middle of the board designed to hold the new Glide Sharknado Pedal Drive system.
Last, but certainly not least, all of Glide’s 2024 iSUPs have a completely updated construction. The biggest updates are with a new style of woven drop stitch core and a new triple-layer-fusion rail system.
AeroMatrix Elite Core
This new woven drop stitch core uses cross-woven drop stitching and a high density fabric for improved rigidity while also reducing weight. This new core is matched with a new dual-layer-fusion PVC skin. Weight specifications from Glide appear to shave off up to 3 pounds with this new construction.
TriFusion Welded Rails
Glide has also updated their rail construction. The inner rail layer is still welded for maximum durability and consistency. What is new for this year are two fusion-laminated (rather than hand-glued) reinforcement layers. By using fusion lamination on the outer rail layers, Glide has fully eliminated the use of glue from the construction of their iSUPs. This also creates a more rigid structure along the side of the board to help further improve rigidity.
Glide iSUP Reviews (2023)
O2 Retro 10’6
All-Around iSUP | 10’6” x 32″ x 6″
The Glide O2 Retro is a classically-shaped iSUP with a new twist on the retro design. At 10’6” x 32”, this board is sized right for most paddlers, and the continuous-curve outline is both aesthetically pleasing and balances performance and stability.
With excellent all-around performance on the water, and included inflatable kayak seat, and ultra-durable construction, the O2 Retro is an all-around iSUP for beginners and advanced paddlers alike.
Did we mention it’s available in three different colors?
Read our Full Review of the Glide O2 Retro for more information
O2 Lotus
Yoga iSUP | 10’6″ x 35″ x 6″
The O2 Lotus is made for SUP yoga, but does something more that many yoga SUPs don’t – it also paddles well! Many yoga-specific boards are so purpose-built that they aren’t a whole lot of fun to paddle more than a few yards at a time. But, the O2 Lotus still works as a high-quality super-stable all-around iSUP.
The full length deck pad is kept mostly free of distraction and clutter with just a center grab handle and a small cargo area at the very front of the board. The new artwork is vibrant and fun, available in two color options and has the same old-school vibes as the O2 Retro.
Read our Full Review of the Glide O2 Lotus for more information
O2 Angler
Fishing iSUP | 11’0″ x 36″ x 6″
Stability and capacity are the mainstays of a good fishing SUP and the Glide O2 Angler has them both. At 36” wide with a rectangular shape, the O2 Angler is one of the most stable iSUPs designed for use by a single paddler.
The ample cargo areas and multiple tie down points make it easy to bring along tackle boxes, dry bags, coolers and more. The Scotty-style rack mounts in the rear and twin fishing rod holders in the front keep all of your fishing equipment within easy reach whether you are standing up to sight cast, or using the included kayak seat.
Read our Full Review of the Glide O2 Angler more information
O2 Quest
Touring iSUP | 12′6” x 30″ x 6″
When fitness and destination paddling are your goal, nothing beats a good touring paddle board. The O2 Quest may have a traditional size and shape, but the new Glide construction gives it rigidity and performance well beyond the inflatable touring SUPs of the past.
Full Review Coming Soon
O2 Mako
Fishing iSUP / Pedal-Drive Kayak | 12′6 x 35″ x 6″
The O2 Mako is the newest addition to the Glide paddle board family. It blends the stability and capacity of the O2 Angler with the distance paddling performance of the O2 Glide. But it doesn’t stop there, either.
The O2 Mako is also specially designed to work with the Sharknado Pedal Drive and rudder system for fast, leg-powered, propulsion while seated.
Full Review Coming Soon
O2 Lochsa
Whitewater iSUP | 9’6” x 35″ x 6″
Adrenaline junkies know that adding gravity to any sport is a sure way to spice things up. The O2 Lochsa whitewater SUP is your ticket to taming those drops, wave trains, and more whether you’re on a remote First Descent mission or taking laps at your local whitewater play park.
Full Review Coming Soon
Optional Glide Accessories
- Paddle Blade for Kayak Conversion
- Sharknado Pedal Drive System for O2 Mako
- 25 QT Hard Cooler
- Fishing Tackle Rack
- 7’ Anchor Pole
Glide Warranty & Returns
Glide’s dedication to building high-performance and durable products doesn’t end once you get your paddle board on the water. They are one of the few companies that believes so strongly in their products that they back them with a lifetime guarantee. For the reasonable life of your board (typically considered 8-10 years) it is fully backed against any manufacturing or material defects. Now, this doesn’t cover abuse, neglect, or damage, but you can rest assured that if you do experience any issues with the materials or construction, Glide will replace or repair your board as needed. They do also offer a fee-based repair service for damaged equipment. Additionally, Glide warranties their accessories (paddles, bags, pumps, etc) for one year as well.
Glide does ship to the United States, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Some international shipping is available, but you’ll need to contact Glide’s customer service prior to ordering. All of Glide’s iSUPs and accessories come with a 30-day return window, less the cost of shipping and a 20% restocking fee.
If you have any questions for Glide, you can contact them via webform, email, phone, and social media.
Glide FAQs
Does Glide ship internationally?
Glide has some international shipping available. Contact their customer service department for full details.
How long do Glide inflatable paddle boards last?
Glide backs all of their iSUPs with a limited lifetime warranty that covers the board against manufacturing or material defects for the reasonable life of the product. Typically this is considered 8-10 years for an iSUP. With regular care, maintenance, and storage, your Glide iSUP can last even longer.
How do you inflate and deflate a Glide paddle board?
All of Glide’s iSUPs come with a single-chamber / dual-stage hand pump.
To inflate the board, remove the valve cap and ensure the valve pin is in the “up” or “closed” position. Connect the pump hose to the pump and valve.
Begin pumping with the pump key placed in the pump. This pushes air into the board on both the up- and down-stroke. Continue until the pressure gauge on the pump is between 4-7 PSI. Then remove the key and continue pumping. This pushes air only on the down-stroke, making it easier to reset the pump each time.
Once the board is inflated to your desired pressure, simply remove the hose from the board valve and replace the valve cap.
To deflate the board, remove the valve cap and press the valve pin down into the “open” position. Turn the valve pin 90° to lock it open. After the air has escaped from the board, use the “deflate” setting on the hand pump to remove any remaining air, or roll the board from nose to tail to squeeze the remaining air out.
After deflation, how do I fold a Glide SUP?
After the air has been removed from the board, I prefer to start at the tail. Fold the tail of the board in using the fin box as a sizing guide. Continue rolling the board all the way to the nose. Use the included nylon strap to keep the board in this folded/rolled shape while you place it in the transportation bag. With the new split fin box on the Glide iSUPs, you can more easily roll from the nose to the tail without worrying about the exact size to accommodate the fin box.
What kind of glue do I use to repair a Glide inflatable paddle board?
In the unfortunate event that you need to repair your Glide paddle board you can use the adhesive that came with the repair kit, or any adhesive that is designed specifically for PVC boat repair (common adhesives are Gear Aid Aquaseal, Clifton Urethane Adhesive LA4123, and RH Products HH-66 Vinyl Cement). Please follow all safety and use instructions for proper patching.
What is the difference between the O2 Angler and O2 Mako fishing iSUP models?
The O2 Angler is designed for maximum stability with an ultra-wide square tail and 36” maximum width. The O2 Mako is designed for reaching fishing spots that are farther away with a longer length, slightly narrower shape, and optional Pedal Drive system.
How much does a Glide inflatable paddle board weigh?
Glide’s inflatable paddle boards weigh between 20-27 pounds for the board only. The accessory kit and bag bring the total kit weight to between 30-37 pounds.
How do you store a Glide inflatable stand up paddle board for winter?
Whether it is the end of the season or just the end of the day, it’s critical to properly store your inflatable paddleboard to increase its longevity. Always make sure your board, deck pad, handles and all accessories are fully dry before putting your board away. Once your board is dry you can roll it normally and put it in its bag for storage. Alternatively, if you have the space and desire, you may keep the board partially inflated during long term storage (<5 PSI pressure).
Always store your board in a dry location out of the sun, preferably temperature controlled. Exposure to freezing temperatures can make the PVC material brittle and prone to cracks when handled, and very high temperatures (over 120F/ 48C) can soften adhesives over time. If you must store your board in very cold temperatures, always make sure to warm it back up to above 50F (10C) before unrolling, rolling, inflating or deflating the board. Similarly, allow boards that may have been overheated to cool down to below 80F (26C) before handling or inflating.
Where to Buy Glide Paddle Boards
United States
If you are looking to purchase a Glide paddle board and find yourself in Salt Lake City, UT, you can visit the Glide warehouse. Otherwise, Glide paddle boards can only be purchased directly from Glide’s website for customers in the United States including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.
International
Glide has limited international shipping available. Contact Glide customer service for more information.