This review is for the DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board, 10′ 6″ x 32″ x 6″ model.
A few months ago, I tried stand-up paddle boarding for the first time. I was hooked from the get-go and immediately decided to buy my own board rather than continue to share my partner’s.
After researching numerous brands and models, I settled on a DAMA Inflatable SUP.
With the being inflatable, it is easy to store and transport.
This was a big selling point for me because my job requires frequent trips out of town, and I wanted a board to take with me and use in my downtime when I am more confident in my paddling skills.
The other factors that helped me decide were its affordable price, inclusions, and feedback from long-time users stating that the board is durable. And I was loved its retro appearance.
Keep reading this DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board review, to learn its specs, key features, pros, cons (from my perspective), and more to help you decide if it’s the right SUP for you.
And if you’re new to the activity, read What is Stand-Up Paddle Boarding? – A beginners Guide, which should answer all your questions and help you get started with paddle boarding.
Table of Contents
Who does it suit?
While anyone can use the board, it is best suited to beginners wanting an affordable multi-use board offering security, comfort, and stability.
Very fit individuals wanting to use the board to improve their fitness may find the paddles limiting and have to buy a heavier set. DAMA makes a tear-shaped carbon/fiberglass paddle suitable for paddlers of all levels. It is still light at 1.8 lbs but should enable you to move through the water faster.
Besides Nature, there are several other models are available, including Adventurer, Flower, Fresh Life, Flywater Couple, and Youth 11.
Most are identical, other than coming in different patterns and colors. Clicking on any of the dark blue links or the image below will take you to Amazon, where you can see all the options.
The DAMA Inflatable SUP 11′ x 33″ x 6″ is worth checking out if you are want a longer and slightly wider board with a higher weight capacity.
Shorter adults may prefer the DAMA Inflatable SUP 9′ 6″ x 32″ x 6″, which is also suitable for kids.
DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Specs
Dimensions –
The DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board measures 121″ (L) x 32″ (W) x 6″ (D)
Weight –
It weighs 17 lbs
User weight –
The user weight limit for this model is 330 pounds
Color choices –
It is available in Nature Wood, which is tan with aqua highlights.
Warranty –
This model comes with a 1-year warranty
DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Overview
The Dama Inflatable SUP is lightweight, quick to inflate and deflate, and travel-friendly.
It comes with everything needed for enjoyable leisure or sport-focused outings, including paddling, surfing, yoga, and fishing.
Included are an adjustable floating paddle, hand pump, carrier strap, waterproof mobile phone, backpack, and storage bags, and an integrated bungee system to secure the bags to the board.
There are four pairs of D rings, two handles, and a camera mount. One handle is at the back, and the other is in the center of the board.
The rings and handles have various uses (more on this below).
Key Features
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Great quality
The DAMA Inflatable SUP features a UV-resistant, non-toxic drop stitch double-layered PVC top with a single-layer PVC base.
This composition provides more rigidity – necessary for balance – and better stability than some other SUPs of a similar price.
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Excellent Maneuverability
The board is lightweight and durable.
Its square-shaped construction gives a larger standing area and facilitates quick, effortless paddling with smooth maneuverability.
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10 Minutes to Inflate and 5 Minutes to Deflate
Taking just 10 minutes to inflate, using the included dual hand pump, you can spend more time on the water enjoying yourself rather than inflating your
board!
And when it’s time to wrap things up for the day, just 5 minutes will get your board ready for storage or transportation.
All you need to do is remove the valve cover, push down on it, and turn the pin to release the air.
The pump has a 12-15PSI range, with the number clearly visible in the gauge, so you will never have to be concerned you have over or under-inflated the board.
If you’re in a hurry, DAMA now sells a 20PSI electric pump that will inflate your board in 7 mins 20s, then switch off automatically.
Deflating the board will take just 1 min 20s.
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Repair kit included
While the DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board is robust, be aware that you could be out in the sun enjoying the water, and your board snags on a sharp rock and starts sinking.
A repair kit is included with your purchase, so if the board does get a hole or rip, you can fix it quickly.
Along with “skin,” the kit contains glue and a wrench to tighten the air valve if necessary. There’s also a set of instructions.
A few other items you will likely have will facilitate repairing the board when you arrive home.
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Floating paddles
The DAMA Inflatable SUP comes with two resilient, shock-resistant plastic paddles that float.
The paddles’ shaft, which is aluminum, adjusts lengthwise, enabling you to find a comfortable length for your height.
You can attach a paddle to each end of the shaft to fashion a kayak paddle or just one to use as a traditional SUP paddle.
Being light, they are perfect for people who don’t have a lot of upper body strength.
Assembly and disassembly take seconds, making for easy and convenient transportation and storage.
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Fins
Without fins, your paddle board wouldn’t go very far. In fact, you would go around in circles as you paddle.
This model comes with three detachable fins.
As is typical with such a setup, there’s a larger one for the board’s center and two smaller ones for either side.
The larger fin assists tracking – traveling straight ahead through the water – while the smaller ones enhance maneuverability and turns.
With three fins in use, there will be more drag so your board will travel more slowly through calm water or waves.
The board will glide faster with just one fin attached.
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Steel D rings
This model has 8 multi-use steel D rings – 4 at the front and 4 in the center.
The rings can act as anchor points for the included carry strap, cell phone holder, and leash.
The front set is part of the bungee system.
You can use the center set to secure a yoga mat or kayak seat to the board’s deck.
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Ankle leash
An ankle leash offers additional security regardless of your confidence in your board skills.
As a newbie, I fall off my board several times every paddling session.
The leash enables me to stay attached to the board, so I don’t have to scramble after it.
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Sport Camera Mount
The board’s rust-resistant aluminum camera mount enables you to securely attach your smartphone or camera to the front of the deck to capture the passing scenery or take selfies as you paddle.
The mount keeps my camera securely in place, and so far, the images I’ve captured have been clear and vibration-free.
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Handles
The DAMA Inflatable SUP has one center and one rear handle.
The center handle is useful for attaching the carrier strap.
The rear handle can be used to attach the safety leash if you don’t want to use a D ring for this purpose.
You can also use it to connect to another SUP for extra security while learning or to allow your children or fur babies to travel with you. Having said this, the board’s weight capacity should be sufficient to support another family member.
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Carrier strap
Traveling with a full-size SUP board can be tricky. The DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board comes with a strap that eliminates the hassle of carrying it around.
Simply attach the straps to the D rings or the carry handle, and slip the straps over your shoulder, leaving your hands free.
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Waterproof storage bag & bungee system
I’m not yet experienced enough to paddle alone, but if you want to hit the water and don’t have an extra set of hands to help carry all your stuff, you’ll appreciate the 
waterproof storage bag.
The larger of these is for carrying your board after deflating it.
Measuring 37 1/2″ x 15″ x 11″, it can be worn as a backpack. It zips all around for easy access to the contents.
You will also receive a smaller, waterproof storage bag.
With its 5-liter capacity, it is roomy enough to carry items you want to take with you on your outing, such as a light change of clothing, snacks, water, etc.
Secure the bag beneath the bungees, and everything will stay dry.
If you want to travel light, pop your phone into the waterproof cell phone bag, attach it to a D ring, and it will be within reach and protected from the elements.
You won’t have to worry about dropping it in the middle of nowhere, then having to look for it when you realize it’s missing.
The following sections of this DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board review discuss its pros and cons.
DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Pros
Retro-cool –
With it’s tan wood grain-look finish and aqua trim, the DAMA Inflatable SUP is among the coolest boards in its price range.
Anti-slip finish –
Grooves on the deck provide traction that adds an extra layer of safety.
Great value –
The board is great value for money, even more so considering the inclusions.
Height adjustable floating paddles –
Floating paddles make it easy to spot and retrieve the paddles if they fall into the water, and with their length being adjustable, they accommodate people of different heights.
Multiple D rings –
D rings add security and convenience; this board has 8, which is more than the other boards I researched.
Speedy inflation and deflation –
The DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board is quick to inflate and deflate.
Board width and thickness –
The board is wider and thicker than some, making for more comfortable paddling.
Camera mount –
The camera mount enables me to attach my Go Pro and not miss any special moments on the water.
Backpack –
The backpack is ideal for storing and transporting the board.
Storage bag –
The waterproof storage bag is large enough to hold everything most people would want to take with them when paddle boarding.
Cell phone bag –
Put your mobile phone in the little bag designed for this purpose, and it will be safe and dry.
Integrated bungees –
Crossover bungees attached to the board’s top can be used to hold the storage bag securely in place.
Repair kit –
The repair kit contains pretty much everything you need to patch a puncture.
However, scissors and a hair dryer will facilitate the process when repairing the SUP at home.
DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Cons
Paddle weight –
Experienced paddlers wanting to work out rather than cruise won’t find the paddles heavy enough to challenge them.
Manual pump –
Manual pumps require effort, which might put off those lacking upper body strength. An electric pump is available that will enable you to inflate the board very quickly and with minimal effort.
The valve may leak –
A handful of buyers who left feedback stated that their board’s valve leaked air. After contacting the manufacturer, they were senta replacement.
DAMA Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Summary
The DAMA Inflatable SUP was built with stability, comfort, and convenience in mind, and for me, it’s delivered on all fronts.
It is ideal for beginners and provides everything needed to get started with this fun outdoor activity.
At some point I may upgrade to a more advanced board, but for now, I am happy with my choice and have no hesitation in recommending it.
If this isn’t the model for you, click here to read reviews of five fabulous alternative SUPs.
