Electric SUP Motors
Electric SUP Motors – Paddle Board Motors for Inflatable SUPs
An electric SUP motor is a propeller drive that fits into the fin box on the underside of your board. It either assists you as you paddle or drives the board on its own. You stay on the water longer with less effort, cope more easily with wind and current, and get back to shore with energy to spare. It's also known as a paddle board motor, SUP drive or electric fin.
Our range includes a motor built into a fin that fits most inflatable and hard SUP boards. When you don't need the motor, simply swap it for a standard SUP fin.
Which SUP Motor Should I Choose?
| Where and how | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Longer tours (lakes, calm sea) | larger battery + paddle-assist mode |
| Wind and current (heading back upwind) | enough power + constant-thrust mode |
| Fishing and photography (long periods sitting still) | quiet drive + motor-only mode + remote control |
| Beginners and families (less experience) | adjustable speed + automatic cut-off |
| Flying on holiday (travelling abroad) | battery capacity: over 160 Wh is not allowed on planes |
How Does an Electric SUP Motor Work?
The motor turns a small propeller under the board and pushes it forward, much like an outboard on a boat. You set the speed with a remote control that attaches to your paddle or wrist. Most motors let you choose between modes:
- Paddle assist: the motor adds thrust with every stroke while you keep paddling.
- Constant thrust: the motor holds a set speed and you paddle only when you want to.
- Motor only: the motor drives the board, and you use the paddle just to steer or put it down.
Because the motor pushes the board evenly, balancing is easier than with hard paddle strokes, so your SUP stays stable in wind and chop.
Fin Motor or External Motor?
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Fin motor (electric fin) | motor + battery in one unit + no cables on deck + quick to fit |
| External motor (separate battery) | battery on deck + cable to the motor + bigger battery, but more kit |
A fin motor is the simplest option: slot it in place of your fin and you're ready to go. With an external motor, you strap the battery to the front of the board and connect it to the motor with a cable, which suits long tours with a large battery.
SUP Motor Battery – How Far Can You Go?
Range depends on battery capacity, which is given in watt-hours (Wh). The higher it is, the further you can go. Range also depends on:
- the mode you use (paddle assist uses much less power than motor only),
- speed (the battery drains much faster at higher speeds),
- the weight of the rider, any passenger and gear,
- wind, waves and current.
On longer tours, keep to a moderate speed and use paddle-assist mode, so you have enough battery left for the way back.
Universal SUP Motor – Will It Fit My Board?
Most SUP motors fit into the fin box, so they work with boards from different brands. Before you buy, check which fin box your board has (US fin box or slide-in) and whether adapters for your system are included. Our SUP fins category explains how to tell the systems apart. For new fin boxes and replacement parts, see our SUP spare parts.
Motors for Inflatable Paddle Boards
A SUP motor works on inflatable boards too, as it fits without drilling or permanent changes. Inflate your board to the recommended pressure so it's stiff enough for the motor to push it evenly. Always remove the motor before rolling the board into its bag.
When Is a SUP Motor Most Useful?
- on longer tours, when you want to save energy for the return,
- when the wind turns and you have to paddle back into it,
- when paddling with a child or passenger on the board,
- for fishing and photography, when you want your hands free,
- for anyone who wants to paddle at a relaxed pace, whatever their fitness.
Safety and Rules on the Water
Even with a motor, always wear a SUP leash and carry a paddle so you can get back if the battery runs out. Choose a motor that stops automatically if it loses signal. Motorised craft are restricted or banned on some lakes and protected areas, so check local rules before you set off. For kids and longer tours, also see our life jackets and buoyancy aids.
How to Care for Your SUP Motor
After paddling in the sea, rinse the motor and propeller with fresh water and dry them in the shade. Check the propeller for weed or cord caught around it. Before storing it for winter, charge the battery to about half and keep it somewhere dry at room temperature.
Related categories
SUP fins · SUP boards · SUP leashes · SUP spare parts · SUP accessories