You know that exciting feeling you get when a package you’ve been eagerly waiting for finally arrives? It’s like being a kid on Christmas morning! That was totally me when my inflatable paddleboard showed up on my doorstep.

As soon as I saw the box, I couldn’t contain my excitement. I dragged it inside, barely stopping to breathe before tearing it open. When I pulled the board out, I was absolutely in love. It’s stunning pastel pinks and soft blues, giving off total Barbie vibes. If Malibu Barbie had her own paddleboard, this would definitely be it! I was ready to embrace my inner paddleboarding enthusiast in style.

Inflating the Board – A Workout in Itself

Before even taking it out on the water, I had to test out how hard it was to inflate. So, I grabbed the manual air pump that came with it and started pumping in my living room. Let me just say… I was struggling. It definitely felt like an arm workout, and I was starting to rethink all my life choices. After getting about halfway, I was already out of breath. It took me a solid 30-40  minutes to fully inflate it, and I definitely took a few breaks along the way. Thankfully, it also came with an electric pump, so I only had to go through the struggle of a manual pump once!

First Time on the Water – And My First Fall

Then that weekend came the moment of truth! I carefully placed my board in the water, clipped on my leash, and climbed on. Sitting? Easy-peasy. Kneeling? No problem. But standing? That’s when things got interesting.

I took a deep breath, put my hands on the board, and slowly pushed myself up to my feet. For a split second, I thought I had it, I was standing! I was actually doing it! And then… splash! I went right into the water.

You know what? I couldn’t even be mad about it. I popped up laughing because I knew it was all part of the learning process. Plus, the water felt amazingly cold, so I wasn’t complaining at all, only slightly! I climbed back on, but I decided to take a break from trying it again for now, lol.

Final Thoughts on My First Ride

Despite my little tumble, my first experience on the inflatable paddleboard was everything I hoped for and more. It’s super easy to transport, a breeze to set up, and feels so sturdy, even though it’s inflatable! And let’s be real, the cute Barbie aesthetic makes it ten times more fun!

Falling in just added to the adventure, and honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. I can already tell this board is going to be my new obsession and bestie (as if it isn’t already)!

Have you ever tried an inflatable paddleboard? And be honest, did you take a dip on your first try, too?