Used vs. Closeout Paddleboards in Cocoa Beach | Epic Boardsports SUP Guide

• Posted on 28 September 2025
• By Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic
• 0

If you’re hunting for an unbeatable SUP deal in Cocoa Beach, Daytona, or anywhere along Florida’s East Coast, you’ve landed in the right spot. We test them in Banana River flats, surf Cocoa’s breaks, and cruise Merritt Island waterways. That insider experience means the SUPs we stock, used or closeout, are things we’d ride ourselves.

Whether you’re a new paddler or someone expanding your quiver, buying a used or closeout board can save you hundreds (even thousands) of dollars, without sacrificing performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• The real difference between used and closeout SUPs
  
  
• Why buying from a trusted local shop beats taking a gamble online
  
  
• The best board types for Florida’s conditions
  
  
• How to spot a good deal (and avoid a bad one)
  
  
• Real examples from current inventory
  
  
• Tips, tricks, and FAQs to help you ride more, worry less
  
  

Explore current used & closeout SUPs: Epic’s SUP Inventory
Learn more about our used gear programs: Epic Used Gear
Thinking of lessons or starting out? SUP Lessons at Epic

What’s the Difference Between Used and Closeout Paddleboards?

When you’re browsing SUP boards, whether at a local shop, on a classifieds site, or on a surf shop’s “clearance” tab, you’ll often see labels like “used,” “demo,” “trade-in,” or “closeout.” These terms aren’t just marketing fluff. They carry real meaning, and risk, especially when you’re hundreds of miles from a shop that can inspect your board. Let’s break it down.

Used / Demo / Trade-In Boards

What does “used” really mean?
Used SUPs include any board that’s been ridden before. At Epic, that could mean a demo board from our tryout fleet, a trusted customer trade-in, or a lightly used staff board. Every one gets inspected nose-to-tail for blisters, delam, fin box integrity, deck wear, and water-tightness before it ever goes on the sales floor.

Pros of buying used:

• Big savings, premium boards at prices you’d never find new.
  
  
• Access to higher-end models, touring, race, or carbon boards become affordable.
  
  
• Perfect backups or experiment boards, great for surf SUP, wing-SUP, or casual second setups.
  
  
• Eco-friendly choice, giving a quality board a longer life on the water.
  
  

Cons of buying used:

• Cosmetic wear like scuffs, dings, or scratches.
  
  
• Potential hidden damage such as water infiltration or soft spots.
  
  
• Limited or no warranty coverage.
  
  
• Possible repair costs down the line.
  
  

Closeout / Last-Season Boards

What does “closeout” mean?
Closeout SUPs are brand-new boards from the prior season, discounted to make room for updated models. They’re factory fresh, never ridden, and usually still carry warranty coverage.

Pros of buying closeout:

• New condition, no repairs, wear, or past use.
  
  
• Warranty & manufacturer support, added peace of mind.
  
  
• Known specs, the exact dimensions, construction, and performance you expect.
  
  
• Discounted pricing, often 20–40% off retail.
  
  

Cons of buying closeout:

• Limited size and color options.
  
  
• Sometimes small design or graphics changes compared to the newest year.
  
  
• Availability can be unpredictable, when they’re gone, they’re gone.

Side-by-Side: Used vs Closeout 

Inventory Examples 

• 2023 Starboard GO 10’8” x 31” Starshot Sun, often a closeout or demo model
  
  
• 2022 BOTE 10’6” HD Native Aloha, could be a trade-in or shop-ridden demo
  
  
• 2024 Starboard Gen R 14’ x 25” Blue Carbon, prime candidate for a closeout (touring board)
  
  
• 2022/2023 Starboard Inflatable SUP 10’8” x 33.5”, might show up in both used and new clearance inventory
  
  
• 2024 Starboard Pro 7’10” x 28”, surf boards often see use, so this could come up used/demos
  
  

Why Shop Local in Cocoa Beach Instead of Buying Online?

It’s tempting to scroll Facebook Marketplace or random online classifieds when you’re hunting for a SUP deal. On the surface, the price looks right. But once you factor in risk, hidden damage, and lack of support, those “cheap” paddleboards can cost you more in the long run. That’s where buying used or closeout gear from a local shop like Epic Boardsports in Cocoa Beach makes all the difference.

Confidence in What You’re Buying

Every board we put on the floor has been inspected nose-to-tail. That means:

• No soft spots or hidden water damage.
  
  
• Fin boxes checked for cracks or repair quality.
  
  
• Rails and noses examined for impact dings.
  
  
• Inflatables tested for valve function and pressure leaks.
  
  

Compare that to buying sight-unseen online, where “great condition” can mean anything from a flawless deck to a patched rail you won’t notice until the first session.

Boards Matched to Florida Conditions

Local expertise matters. Cocoa Beach paddlers aren’t riding the same conditions as someone in California or the Great Lakes. Our recommendations are built around Florida’s East Coast realities:

• Wide, stable all-arounders like the BOTE 10’6” HD Native Aloha for Banana River flatwater days.
  
  
• Touring boards like the 2024 Starboard Gen R 14’ x 25” Blue Carbon for distance paddling in Indian River Lagoon.
  
  
• Inflatable SUPs such as the 2022/2023 Starboard Inflatable 10’8” x 33.5” for travelers and families who need portability.
  
  
• Surf SUPs like the 2023 Starboard Pro 7’10” x 28” Blue Carbon for Cocoa Beach Pier or 2nd Light.
  
  

When you buy local, you’re not just picking a board, you’re picking one tested in the same water you’ll ride.

Support Beyond the Sale

Buying a paddleboard is step one. Learning how to use it, transport it, and maintain it takes real guidance. At Epic, we make sure you’re set up for success:

• Paddle, leash, and fin matching advice.
  
  
• Local launch spot recommendations.
  
  
• Tips on storing your board in Florida’s humidity and heat.
  
  
• SUP lessons if you want structured progression.
  
  

That kind of support doesn’t exist when you order from a faceless online seller.

Trade-In and Upgrade Options

Your first board might not be your last. Maybe you start with an all-around SUP, then move into a faster touring model or surf SUP. Epic offers trade-in programs and bundle deals, so you can rotate gear as your skills grow. Try doing that with an online auction purchase.

Want to see what’s in stock now? Check out our current SUP board lineup.

What Type of Paddleboard Should I Choose for Florida’s East Coast?

One of the biggest questions we hear in the shop is: “Which type of SUP is right for me?” The truth is, there isn’t a single “best” board. The right choice depends on where you’ll paddle most, your skill level, and how you want to use the board. Florida’s East Coast offers it all, flatwater lagoons, mellow surf, and long-distance paddling routes, so let’s break down the main categories with real board examples from our current and recent inventory.

All-Around SUPs (Best for Beginners & Families)

If you’re brand new to stand up paddle boarding, start with stability. All-around boards are wide, forgiving, and versatile enough for both flatwater cruising and small surf.

• Examples in our shop:
  
  
• 2023 Starboard GO 10’8” x 31” Starshot Sun 
• 2022 BOTE 10’6” HD Native Aloha
  
  
• Best for: First-time paddlers, families sharing one board, or casual sessions on Banana River or Ramp Road Park.
  
  
• Why Florida riders love them: They’re easy to launch, easy to balance on, and they let you focus on fun instead of fighting for stability.
  
  

Touring & Fitness SUPs (For Distance and Speed)

For paddlers who want to cover miles, train, or explore long stretches of river and lagoon, touring SUPs are the way to go. They’re narrower and faster, built to glide efficiently over distance.

• Examples in our shop:
  
  
• 2024 Starboard Gen R 14’ x 25” Blue Carbon
  
  
• 2024 Starboard All Star 14’ x 24.5”
  
  
• Best for: Fitness paddlers, endurance trainers, or anyone who loves long-distance exploration.
  
  
• Where they shine in Florida: Indian River Lagoon, Banana River, and Merritt Island canals, places where glassy water rewards efficiency.
  
  

Inflatable SUPs (Portable & Family-Friendly)

Inflatables make it easy to travel, store, and share SUPs without a roof rack or huge garage space. They’re durable enough for families, pets, or tossing in the trunk for a weekend trip.

• Examples in our shop:
  
  
• 2022/2023 Starboard Inflatable 10’8” x 33.5” Deluxe
  
  
• 2022 Fanatic 11’6” Ray Air
  
  
• Best for: Travelers, apartment dwellers, or families needing a rugged, portable option.
  
  
• Why they work here: Easy to carry to Cocoa Beach’s crowded access points, perfect for summer road trips, and forgiving enough for sandy launches and casual paddles.
  
  

Surf SUPs (For Catching Cocoa Beach Waves)

When you’re ready to take your SUP into the ocean, surf-specific boards are shorter, more maneuverable, and designed for performance in waves.

• Examples in our shop:
  
  
• 2023 Starboard Pro 7’10” x 28” Blue Carbon
  
  
• 2024 Starboard Spice 6’9” x 25.5”
  
  
• Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders who want to carve waves at 2nd Light, Cocoa Beach Pier, or Satellite Beach.
  
  
• Why Florida riders love them: They let you tap into surf conditions when the waves are up, blending paddle power with surf-style fun.
  
  

Used vs Closeout SUPs, Which Is Right for You?

When comparing used and closeout paddleboards, the “right” choice isn’t universal, it depends on your goals, budget, risk tolerance, and paddling style. In this section, we’ll help you self-assess what option makes the most sense, then illustrate real-life scenarios to make the choice tangible.

Key Decision Factors to Consider

Here are the major trade-offs to weigh when deciding between a used SUP and a closeout SUP:

Let’s translate those abstract bullets into real-life use cases and decision scenarios to help clarify what fits you.

When Used SUPs Make the Most Sense

You’re on a tighter budget, and want maximum performance per dollar.
Used boards let you stretch your dollar further. You might grab a higher-end touring or carbon board that would be outside your price range new.

You want a backup or sacrificial board.
If you travel, surf in shallow reefs, or paddle in rougher conditions, having a beat-up backup SUP can save your premium board from damage.

You don’t mind cosmetic or repair quirks.
If you’re okay with dings, scratches, or a past repair patch (if done well), then a used board is low risk compared to what you save in cost.

You know your board specs and preferences.
If you’ve done your research, dimensions, rocker, fin setups, you can spot good deals and avoid mismatches.

Real scenario example:
Tom is a paddler from New Smyrna. He found a lightly used 2022 Starboard GO 10’8” at Epic for 55% off retail. It has a few deck scuffs, but structurally solid. It becomes his day-to-day board. Meanwhile, he keeps his closeout 2023 touring board for long paddles. That’s how many locals build quivers.

When Closeout SUPs Are the Smarter Choice

You prioritize peace of mind and warranty.
A closeout board gives you the brand-new experience, often with full or prorated warranty coverage, no guessing about history.

You don’t want surprises.
No need to worry about internal repairs, water infiltration, prior reef hits, or hidden damage.

You’re investing in your one main board.
If this is going to be your board, your go-to for paddling, fitness, and family use, starting with a closeout gives you more runway.

You prefer minimal future maintenance.
Because the board is new, there’s no unknown past damage; your future upkeep is cleaner data.

Real scenario example:
Emma is relatively new to SUP. She wants one dependable board for the Banana River, local launches, and occasional surf. She buys a 2023 Starboard GO 10’8” closeout from Epic, new graphics, full warranty, and a price 30% under new retail. She sleeps easier knowing there’s no hidden issues.

Real Inventory Comparisons to Illustrate the Options

Let’s look at two hypothetical (but realistic) picks from your screenshot-based board sets: 

In both cases, the closeout option gives a cleaner starting point, and the used option gives more aggressive savings, with tradeoffs.

Decision Hacks (Quick Filters)

• If discount > 50% → lean used (but inspect heavily)
  
  
• If board is < 2 seasons old → used is safer
  
  
• If you want warranty coverage or plan to keep long → consider closeout
  
  
• If the shop allows trade-ins or upgrades later → that closes the gap between risk and reward
  
  

Where to Find the Best Deals on SUPs in Cocoa Beach

If you’re serious about scoring a great paddleboard without breaking the bank, you don’t need to gamble on Craigslist or a random Facebook post. The best SUP deals in Cocoa Beach are happening right here at Epic Boardsports.

Rotating Stock of Used and Closeout Boards

Our shop is constantly updating with:

• Used SUPs from demo fleets, trusted rider trade-ins, or staff-tested boards.
  
  
• Closeout SUPs from premium brands clearing last season’s models.
  
  

That means every time you check in, online or in person, you’ll likely find something new on the rack.

SUP Brands We Regularly Carry

You’ll find both used and closeout paddleboards from the most trusted names in the industry, including:

• Starboard, all-arounders, touring boards, surf SUPs, and inflatables.
  
  
• Fanatic, versatile inflatables and performance surf shapes.
  
  
• BOTE, lifestyle-friendly SUPs, great for families and flatwater cruising.
  
  

Every board is chosen for how it performs in Florida waters, not just how it looks in the catalog.

Local Knowledge Built Into Every Recommendation

Our inventory isn’t random, it’s curated for conditions you’ll actually face here on Florida’s Space Coast:

• Banana River and Indian River Lagoon: Stable touring boards for flatwater exploration.
  
  
• Cocoa Beach & Jetty Park: All-arounders and surf SUPs ready to handle mellow waves.
  
  
• Merritt Island Canals: Inflatable SUPs perfect for casual fitness paddles or family sessions.
  
  

When you buy from Epic, you’re not just buying a board, you’re getting the right board for your launch spot.

Why Epic Deals Beat the Online Guessing Game

• Transparent pricing and clear condition ratings.
  
  
• Shop support after the sale, paddle matching, storage tips, fin setup advice.
  
  
• Trade-in and bundle options that online resellers simply can’t offer.
  
  

Ready to see what’s available now? Browse our stand up paddle boards or check out the used gear section.

Why Buy Your SUP from Epic Boardsports?

Buying a paddleboard is about getting the lowest price,  getting the right board, the right fit, and the confidence to paddle more often. That’s where Epic Boardsports sets itself apart.

1. Boards Matched to Local Water Conditions

Cocoa Beach paddlers deal with a unique mix of lagoon flatwater, open surf, and windy cross-shore days. We’ve tested boards in every one of those conditions, and we’ll steer you toward the SUPs that actually perform here, not just what looks good online.

2. Honest Support After the Sale

Once you leave with your board, our support doesn’t stop. We’re here for:

• Paddle, leash, and fin setup guidance.
  
  
• Tips on local launch spots, from Ramp Road Park to Jetty Park.
  
  
• Storage and transport advice for Florida’s heat and humidity.
  
  
• SUP lessons if you want structured, fast-track progression.
  
  

3. Trade-In & Upgrade Programs

As your skills grow, your board needs might change. Maybe you start on an all-around SUP, then upgrade to a touring board for distance paddling. At Epic, we offer trade-in options and bundle deals so you can level up without starting over.

4. A Shop Run by Riders, Not Just Sellers

Epic isn’t a faceless online warehouse. We’re local riders who surf, foil, and paddle these waters every week. When we recommend a board, it’s because we know it works here, not because a distributor pushed it on us.

Why This Matters for You

• Less time scrolling questionable listings.
  
  
• More confidence that your board will actually last.
  
  
• A local shop you can call, text, or stop by whenever questions pop up.
  
  

When you buy from Epic Boardsports, you’re not just buying a SUP, you’re investing in better sessions and a community that has your back.

Ready to find your board? Browse our full SUP collection or stop by our Cocoa Beach shop today.

FAQ: Buying Used or Closeout Paddleboards in Cocoa Beach

Where can I buy used paddleboards in Cocoa Beach?
You can find shop-inspected used SUPs at Epic Boardsports. We regularly rotate boards from our demo fleet, trusted rider trade-ins, and lightly used staff boards. Each one is inspected for structural integrity before being listed.

Are closeout SUPs really brand new?
Yes. Closeout paddleboards are factory-new boards from prior model years, usually discounted to make room for updated inventory. They still offer full performance and often include manufacturer warranty coverage. At Epic, closeouts are one of the smartest ways to get a brand-new SUP without paying full retail.

What size SUP is best for beginners in Florida?
Most beginners do well with boards in the 10’6”–11’2” length range and 31–33” width. These dimensions balance stability with maneuverability. Popular beginner-friendly picks include the Starboard GO 10’8” x 31” and BOTE 10’6” HD Native Aloha. If you’re brand new, check out our SUP lessons to get started right.

Do inflatable paddleboards work for Cocoa Beach?
Absolutely. Inflatables like the Starboard 10’8” x 33.5” Deluxe or Fanatic Ray Air 11’6” are durable, portable, and family-friendly. They’re great for the Banana River, Merritt Island canals, and flatwater spots where portability is a huge advantage.

Can I use a SUP in the surf at Cocoa Beach?
Yes, but not all boards are suited for waves. Surf-specific SUPs like the Starboard Pro 7’10” x 28” or Starboard Spice 6’9” are designed for maneuverability in the lineup. If you’re just starting out, we recommend a stable all-arounder for small, mellow days before progressing into surf SUPs.

What’s better for me, a used or a closeout SUP?
It depends on your goals:

• Choose used if you’re on a budget, want a backup board, or don’t mind cosmetic wear.
  
  
• Choose closeout if you want new gear with warranty coverage and long-term reliability.
  If you’re not sure, stop by our shop, we’ll help you weigh options and inspect boards side by side.
  
  

Do you offer bundle deals with boards, paddles, and leashes?
Yes. At Epic Boardsports, we often run bundle pricing on SUPs, paddles, fins, and leashes, especially on closeout and used boards. Ask us about current package deals in-store or over the phone.

Can you ship paddleboards outside Cocoa Beach?
Yes, we can ship across Florida and beyond. Many of our customers come from Daytona, New Smyrna Beach, Palm Coast, and St. Augustine, but we also arrange shipping for paddlers who can’t make it into the shop. Check out our stand up paddle board collection to browse inventory.

Do you take trade-ins?
Yes. If you’re upgrading, you may be able to trade in your old board toward a used or closeout SUP. Trade-ins are evaluated for condition and resale potential, and we’ll give you a fair value so you can step into a new ride with less out-of-pocket cost.

How can I learn SUP basics before buying a board?
We recommend booking a SUP lesson at Epic. Lessons cover board handling, paddling technique, and safety, giving you a strong foundation before you invest in your own gear.

Ride Smarter with Used & Closeout SUPs in Cocoa Beach

Buying a paddleboard is more than a price decision, it’s about finding the right board for your local water, your skill level, and your long-term goals. Both used and closeout SUPs have their place:

• Used paddleboards give you unbeatable value, access to higher-end gear at lower prices, and a chance to build a quiver without draining your budget.
  
  
• Closeout paddleboards give you the confidence of brand-new gear, warranty coverage, and the peace of mind that comes from starting fresh.
  
  

Here in Cocoa Beach, you’re not just choosing between used and new, you’re choosing between wasting time on questionable online listings or getting expert-backed gear from people who paddle the same rivers, canals, and surf breaks you do. That’s what makes Epic Boardsports different.

From family-friendly inflatables to race-ready touring boards and surf SUPs built for Cocoa’s waves, our inventory rotates constantly. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned local, we’ll help you find a board that gets you on the water more often, and keeps you smiling while you’re out there.

Ready to Find Your SUP?

• Shop All SUP Boards
• Check Out Our Used Gear Deals
• Learn with SUP Lessons in Cocoa Beach
• Or stop by our Cocoa Beach shop to see what’s in stock today.
  
  

At Epic Boardsports, our mission is simple: get you on the right board, at the right price, with the right local support, so you spend less time searching and more time paddling.

Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic