Drop-stitch technology involves joining two layers of material using thousands of nylon threads. These threads are evenly distributed throughout the material, which, when inflated, provides great rigidity. This makes the structure stiff enough that the boards can maintain a shape and hardness comparable to hard boards, even with little air pressure inside. Products made with this technology achieve properties similar to uninflated structures, which ensures high stability and durability.

A design found in racing SUP boards from Aqua Marina. It is a premium technology that gives the pumped board stiffness comparable to hard sups. It consists of a drop-stitch core and a double layer of PVC, covered with EVA foam. The board is reinforced with stringers. This construction makes the narrow board extremely fast, stable and buoyant.