Used to have inflatables when travelling around country. Ideal, the only downfall was how hard it was to pump up, and yes I tried several brands and found the "red paddle Co" pump the best.. The other thing is that they run a fitting that over time doesn't lock out when releasing pump. I had my friends try to pump it up and they struggled from 10psi (had to go to 12-15psi, 17psi I found ideal for rapids)
With the introduction of more people trying SUP, I agree they do have a good market. Just need electric pump to do the hard yards for the light weight persons.
Changed to ridged boards as surf big waves now (no more Nth Qld rapids). And I only have to walk out my door to step on the sand so transport is no problem..