Tag: Standup Paddle Boards

Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit 10’6 Review

If your budget is around $500 give or take, and you’re not sure what board to start with, here comes the iSUP Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit review.

Why this particular model, did you ask?

Well, to make it really easy on you, especially if you’re contemplating the first purchase, the 10’6” long and 30” wide Aqua Spirit is the perfect inflatable paddle board for beginners and advanced paddlers, as it provides steady traction and an easy ride, not to mention you won’t have to break the bank to get one.

Specifications

Length 10’6″

Width 30”

Thickness 6”

Weight 19 lbs

Weight Capacity 280 lbs

Review

[wp-review id=”2193″]

Use our discount code “CHASINGBLUESUP15” for an additional 15% off!

The Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit paddleboard is a brand-new model, and that’s a big advantage if you’re looking for “cutting edge” stuff. Moreover, if you take a look at the specs, it’s pretty obvious even for total noobs that this makes for a very portable, lightweight, and easy to grab paddleboard, which is ready to be taken to water anytime, anywhere, hassle-free: just put it in your trunk and it will be there waiting for you, ready and willing. A quick paddle after school or with your family on the weekend? It’s all possible with this iSUP!

In terms of design, the Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit iSUP features an all-around shape with a slightly rounded nose, which makes it stable enough for anyone, while being responsive and with good glide. In short, this paddleboard is an excellent choice for beginners and has enough, let’s say kick, which will help you improve your skills.

Moreover, despite its low price, the Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit is excellent for recreational paddling, making for a jack of all trades, or an all-purpose board, with lots of extra features that are usually found in higher-end/pricier boards, as well as a ton of accessories.

This board offers some real advantages due to its dimensions, i.e. at 10’6″ long and 30″ wide, which is relatively small; it’s also pretty lightweight, considering it has a high-quality double layer board. Also, a smaller board is easier to turn and maneuver, which confers its versatility and will suit various water conditions.

As the general rule of thumb, if you’re a beginner, the wider a board is, the more sluggish is to paddle, even if it may feel very comfortable at first, and that leads to boringness, which is the exact opposite of having fun. This paddleboard has the ideal dimensions for beginners but also more advanced paddlers.

Who’s it for

The Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit is ideal for both families and recreation paddlers, as it makes for a solid board for both learning to paddle, as well as for improving one’s skills all the way up to the advanced level.

So, this is a great starter board you can easily grow into, and as you become more skilled, you’ll appreciate how fast it turns and how versatile it can be, how nice it glides, and how little effort is required to propel it forward with almost zero drag.

All these features are due to good design, and here’s what we mean by that: this all-around board has almost the ideal size, with an emphasis on the 6″ thickness metric, which makes it more stable as it sits lower in the water compared to thicker boards (which are easier to make and heavier), while the lower walls are less prone be affected by waves and wind.

Bottom line, if you’re a water sports enthusiast who loves to travel, and you’re looking for an inflatable board that will transform into a small and compact package that can be stored anywhere, even in a backpack, this iSUP comes highly recommended.

Features

Even if this SUP is very affordable, it comes with many features that are only seen on higher category boards. For example, the package contains 18 D-rings, 3 carry handles, 2 sets of bungee straps, and a comfortable deck pad, and needless to say, this is kind of rare in this price segment.

Bungees

The Chasing Blue Aqua Spirit has front and back bungees with grab handles, on both the tail and nose, which provide enough space to keep your essentials safe and secure your cargo while you paddle enthusiastically.

Under the bungees there’s enough room to fit several dry bags, or, why not, a small cooler box for your favorite beverages. Moreover, both the back and front bungees come with safety handles; speaking of which, there are handles on the sides, which are great for helping you lift the board, grab it from water, hold onto it while sitting, or tethering the board to a dock.

Basically, ergonomics are great on this budget board, and you even get nose and tail grab handles, padded mind you, and each of them includes 2 stainless steel D rings, that can be used to secure your leash and what not (securing basically anything you need).

There’s also a comfortable nylon padded center carry handle, which is used to carry the board, and that’s a nice touch for such an affordable board, and proof that small things can make for a huge difference in terms of comfort and user experience when it comes to how far you can comfortably carry the board.

D-rings

The Aqua Spirit has more than enough D rings, which include 6 of them at the front and back bungees, 3 extra ones along each side of the deck pad, and 2 on either side of the grab handles, which are great if you’re looking to paddle kayak style, as it makes it really easy to secure a seat using the plethora of D rings.

Fins

The board also features two attached side fins and a larger removable touring fin that clips easily into the fin box. When attached, the latter helps the board track really well, and if you remove it, you can easily paddle in shallow water. For best handling, we would advise you to keep all three fins attached at all times.

Deck Pad

Speaking of creature comforts, the Aqua Spirit comes with a soft and very comfy deck pad, which features soft-lined grooves where you stand on the board, plus a diamond groove down the center and at the tail of the board. The type of material used and the padding on the top is important for stability, and it must be noted that the grooves on the pad are well designed, deep and effective, so you will not slip on them, i.e. you will be able to keep your balance and paddle straight at all times.

Safety features

In terms of safety features, you’ll get a double secured Halkey-Roberts valve that will automatically release air if you inflate it over 15 PSI, i.e. it’s not possible to overinflate the board, and you will also avoid damaging the seams by applying extra pressure.

To tell you the truth, a SUP suffering from catastrophic damage from overinflating is almost unheard of, but it’s a nice feature to have, and that’s why we mentioned it.

Accessories

The accessory package is generous for a $500 board and includes a dual-action hand pump, a wheeled backpack, a repair kit with glue, extra material, and valve tool, a waterproof phone case, 6 action mounts for mounting GoPros or other popular mounting systems, a 3 piece aluminum shaft paddle, and a coiled SUP leash.

Backpack

The wheeled backpack is a pretty cool accessory, and we must mention the insulating materials used in the interior, in order to keep the temperature steady and the contents inside the bag “happy” (read beer). The backpack also has a supportive waist clip and padded adjustable shoulder straps for easy carry, plus zips on three sides, which makes it really easy to get the board and accessories in and out of the bag, while the integrated wheels are great for effortless traveling.

Paddle

The height-adjustable 3-piece aluminum shaft paddle is lightweight and well-designed, with a nylon-made blade and handle, and it’s fully adjustable from 72″-86″ while weighing a mere 28 oz.

Needless to say, considering the choice of materials used, the paddle floats on water, yet it is strong, light, and durable, easy to put together/take apart, and, most importantly, it doesn’t twist when pushed hard.

Since it weighs 28 oz, you will never feel fatigued and pain in your arms and shoulders, and you’ll be able to paddle further with less effort.

Pump

The double-action (as in it inflates on both the up and down pumps initially) hand pump included in the package has a built-in pressure gauge and allows you to inflate your SUP pretty fast.

By fast we mean about 7-8 minutes at the recommended pressure (12 PSI); also included in the retail package is a solid coiled SUP leash, which is an important safety item, as it allows you to attach your ankle to the back D ring on your board, so you don’t get separated if you fall in the water.

Instead of using this manual labor pump, you can opt for the electric Outdoor Master pumps! You can choose the electric Shark II or the battery-powered Whale pumps! Read our review of the Outdoor Master Whale pump here.

Waterproof phone case

The waterproof phone case is a nice touch, as most budget inflatable boards do not offer such a gadget. The waterproof case can also be used as a little bag to keep your valuables safe from water damage or to protect your expensive smartphone from splashes.

We must also mention several action mounts included as accessories; you can glue them anywhere on your paddleboard and they’re excellent to use with a phone holder, action camera, and anything in between.

All Chasing Blue boards come with a repair kit, including the Aqua Spirit, which includes PVC patches, a valve wrench to tighten the valve, and glue.

Conclusion

Use our discount code “CHASINGBLUESUP15” for an additional 15% off!

If you’ve made it this far, here it comes: for $500, it’s hard to get a better deal, and if you put into the mix the 2-year warranty offered by Chasing Blue and the fact that this board is built using high-quality double-layer PVC, it will last you a long time if taken care of properly.

September 29, 2021

Best All-Around Inflatable Paddleboard Comparison of 2021

We have carefully selected each and every one of our amazing boards from the finest stand-up paddleboards this planet has to offer. Whether you are looking at established brands or some family fun we have six of the best inflatable SUP’s to take your fancy.

From the ever-popular Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 or the Starboard Atlas 12’ to the relative newcomers of the Nixy Newport G2 10’6 and the iRocker Cruiser 10’6. Finally, we have added the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ and the Thurso Surf 132 Waterwalker 11’ to round off our 2021 SUP comparison.

iRocker Cruiser 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11′	Review	Buy Now
Nixy Newport G2 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Red Paddle Co Ride MSL 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Aquaglide Cascade 11′	Review	Buy Now
Starboard Atlas Zen 12′	Review	Buy Now

There have been spills, we’ve had thrills. With so much fun, in the sun. Now here we are. Having stood upon, set out, and paddled all of these beautiful boards we are ready to pump them up and show you the 2021 best all-around inflatable stand up paddleboards.

We have been lucky enough to test all of our boards in a variety of conditions, from the flat lakes and estuaries and onto our favorite surf and river explorations. This SUP Comparison will guide you through our favorite aspects of each board and inform you of exactly what you need to know.

So buckle up and let’s launch right in.

The 6 Paddleboard Introductions

iRocker 10’6 Cruiser

Specifications
Length	10’6”
Width	33”
Thickness	6”
Weight	400 lbs
Weight Capacity	25 lbs

The team at iRocker may only have been in the business a few years but already have come up with a pedigree that stands shoulder to shoulder with other well-known brands.

The iRocker 10’6 Cruiser is the perfect mix of usability, performance, and fun. The quad-layer construction has to be the most durable in the industry combining military-grade PVC to create a board that can be bounced, beaten, and boogied just about anywhere. A large colorful deck pad can be chosen in one of 6 colors. This kind of choice really allows you to customize your style. Oh and the extra board leash perfectly matching!

At 10’6 we feel it is the ideal length for many users. A solid tri-fin set up featuring a larger center fin gives the board some direction and allows it to really grip the water and cruise with a great glide. The smaller outer fins come into play to turn and spin the board effortlessly making it the ideal board to try some slalom or whitewater also.

Pros

An amazing lineup of 6 different colors available
Matching leashes and paddles that go with your chosen deck pad color
The inclusion of the lightweight fiberglass paddle
Able to add a kayak seat
2-year warranty provides peace of mind

Cons

A slower board to paddle than other narrower designs
The bag even though it looks amazing is bright blue, sometimes we prefer to be a little more inconspicuous while walking through town

Thurso Surf 132 Waterwalker 11′

Specifications
Length	11’
Width	32”
Thickness	6”
Weight	26 lbs
Weight Capacity	450 lbs

The Thurso Surf 11’ Waterwalker may look like a piece of timber but it definitely is anything but driftwood. The elegant top deck has been designed with a stunning wood effect pattern. Set apart beautifully with the classy tri-color EVA deck pad. In our opinion, this is certainly one of the best looking boards on the market.

If looks and style aren’t your things then you will be pleased to know Thurso Surf has combined a dual-layer PVC outer over a drop-stitch core to give a solid stable board perfect for a variety of users.

At 11 feet long it’s a board that can suit larger riders and with a 450 lb capacity, it can be fun for all the family.

One huge aspect of the board is the tri-fin setup, with all three fins being removable. This allows you to set the board up for whatever your adventure. Whether you choose a single center fin for cruising or tri-fin for all-around performance! The swap-out is quick, simple, and most importantly your own.

Sold as a fantastic package including a carbon shafted paddle, board leash, travel bag, and get this a lunch cooler bag! Perfect for keeping those drinks cool and those sandwiches dry.

Pros

Beautiful wood grain effect deck design
Traction pad is deep and grippy
Coiled board leash is strong and comfortable
Cooler bag is a really nice addition
Center hand cover doubling up as a paddle holder is an ingenious addition
Great value for the price

Cons

Traction pad does not include a kick pad
The bag is really nicely designed but lighter weight and less padded than other brands

Nixy Newport G2 10’6”

Specifications
Length	10’6”
Width	33”
Thickness	6”
Weight	17 lbs
Weight Capacity	300 lbs

The Nixy Newport G2 10’6 all around paddleboard originally came to us as an outsider but once on the water it just felt right, like your mother’s home-cooked meatloaf it all just fell perfectly into place. For us, this is certainly one of the best SUP boards we have ever ridden.

The Fusion core technology is something really exciting. By fusing the materials before manufacturing allows them to work in perfect harmony providing increased durability and stiffness across the entire board whilst keeping the weight low.

Both the looks and feel of the board felt like any of the higher-priced premium boards. And also once afloat it felt just like one too, tracking and turning with ease. The super stable board is ideal for beginners and advanced paddlers alike.

From the oversized, comfortable EVA deck pad to the toolless tri-fin set up this board just oozes usability. The Nixy Newport G2 10’6 is sold as a ready to roll package including hybrid leash, paddle, and the super stylish wheely bag. This bag really rounds off the package, allowing you to truly take the Nixy paddleboard anywhere with you at a moment’s notice.

Pros

Fusion Core offers increased rigidity
Wheely bag featuring large 3 wheeled design
Quality hybrid leash included as standard
Different color options available
Toolless tri-fin set up fast and effective

Cons

Only one handle in the center of the board, personally we would have loved to see a rear launching handle also
The paddle is very basic and could be improved

Red Paddle Co 10’6 Ride MSL

Specifications
Length	10’6
Width	32”
Thickness	4.7”
Weight	21.78 lbs
Weight Capacity	220 lbs

The Ride 10’6 from Red Paddle Co has been one of the best-selling and most popular boards for many years now. The 2019 edition is no exception carrying the mantle from one of the top brands in the Inflatable stand up paddleboard business. By implementing careful changes to sleekly update the board for another season Red Paddle co has yet again created a masterpiece.

The Ride 10’6 is built on industry-leading MSL and Tec Air Technologies giving you the stiffness and rigidity you expect without compromise. The Red Paddle co Ride 10’6 is equipped with a solid 3 fin thruster set up, the rubber fins are grippy enough to hang onto a line and track whilst positioned well enough to turn and carve. Whether crushing the ocean waves or cruising on a lake you certainly will not be disappointed.

A strong dual layer PVC deck allows the board to be super durable in every situation along with the large grippy deck pad, comfortable for all-day use. The Titan pump included with the Ride has proven to be the best in the industry, delivering air quickly and efficiently, making pumping an absolute breeze

We have tested this board time and time again constantly trying to fault it but yet still it is as predictable as ever providing a confident feel that just wants to be pushed, whether a beginner looking for a first board or an intermediate rider looking at something to use in more advanced conditions the ride really is a true all-around design and stays as one of our favorites.

Pros

MSL and Tec Air technologies are the best in the industry
Able to cope with 20+ PSI of pressure
Front camera mount location a really nice addition
Titan pump is the best on the market

Cons

Sold as a board only, so you must remember to pick up a paddle and leash before you hit the water

Starboard Atlas Zen 12’

Specifications
Length	12’
Width	33”
Thickness	6”
Weight	25.5 lbs
Weight Capacity	265 lbs

With over 24 years of board building and shaping the team at Starboard have been in the game longer than any other, always attempting to stay current with the newest designs and industry-leading technologies.

Starboard proves that boards can truly be used by everyone. The zen construction features an all-around duel stringer reinforcement to allow the board to better hold its form. In addition to a solid standing plate to give you the feel of a solid board beneath your feet, whilst still remaining lightweight and portable.

The Starboard Atlas Zen at 12’ is one of the longest all-around boards also with a stable 33” beam, certainly suiting those who prefer to cruise but offering the option of bumping and bouncing with a rocker profile designed to allow it to release and still turn as easy as many shorter boards. This is also partly due to the tri-fin set up used as opposed to a large single fin to give you the all-around performance you want, with the extra glide speed and cruise for covering that bit of distance.

Pros

Super stiff and rigid design even for the largest of riders
A really stable board that is perfect for beginners
A nice comfortable glide speed perfect for cruising
We really love the wheely bag makes pulling through the airport an absolute dream

Cons

No paddle is included in the package so be sure to order one when purchasing your new board
We would love to see backpack straps on the sack also to aid carrying in busy places

Aquaglide Cascade 11’

Specifications
Length	11’
Width	32”
Thickness	6”
Weight	27 lbs
Weight Capacity	230 lbs

A company with over 30 years of experience in the inflatable industry, they certainly know a thing or two about high-quality durable products. From inflatable water trampolines to kayaks and just about everything in between Aquaglide are one of the biggest inflatable manufacturers in the world. The Aquaglide Cascade 11’ stand up paddleboard has been designed and built with a great pedigree of fun, usability, and durability.

The high-quality drop stitch core and tough PVC deck are capable of over 18 PSI of pressure offering rigidity in a lightweight design.

Aquaglide is the only company in our SUP comparison which has opted for a single fin over a tri-fin set up, this being said they have pulled it out of the bag by including a US fin box meaning you have a huge selection of aftermarket fins to choose from so you can quickly change it over depending on the conditions.

At 11 feet the Aquaglide Cascade is at home both on a canal or lake as it is in the ocean, combining a graceful glide, speed, and good stability. This board will allow you to explore and adventure off into the distance.

Pros

Tough rugged backpack design
Solid stable board
Use of the US fin box system
Colors are stylish and great looking
Plenty of D-rings to add extra accessories easily

Cons

Traction pad is smaller than other brands
Single fin option does limit the board to more cruising and less all-around
No paddle has been included in the package

The 2021 All-Around Inflatable Paddleboard Comparison

In our best all-around inflatables comparison 2019, we have sorted it into a number of headings to better understand just which board excels where.

Performance

We have looked at the board’s general performance in terms of speed and glide as well as its maneuverability. As an all-around board, we really expect a good mix of both to create the best performing boards in a range of conditions.

At the top of our list has to be the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 MSL. This really has been one of the most consistent boards of the past 5 years. Year on year it is reviewed and each time it is always on top for performance, the proven formula just seems to work. A solid board with a great rigidity that allows it to perform both on flat water and in more challenging conditions.

At the opposite end of the scale, we were quite disappointed with the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ SUP, for a brand that really specializes in high-end inflatables we felt the Cascades performance was mediocre at best. The single-layer construction just didn’t give the board a premium feel, it felt cheap and flexed as soon as we stood aboard.

One of the other stands out performers for us this year had to be the Nixy Newport G2 10’6 all-around. A paddleboard that came to us as a bit of an outsider, but was soon placed an equal. The well-designed shape and form held true, adapting to our speed and then gliding with ease. Then we could switch it up, and when you most needed it, the three fins would catch and spin you into a frenzy.

The Starboard deserves its place at the table, having set the standard for so long. The Starboard Atlas Zen at 12 feet is the biggest all-around SUP in our review. With many aspects pushing it towards being a hybrid cruiser, it is only when you roll it over can you really unlock its true potential.

The Tri Fin Set up has been pushed further back to allow you to turn and maneuver the board with ease then as you step forward the board sets a steady rhythm gliding onwards with ease.

We were impressed to paddle the similar Thurso Surf 11′ Waterwalker and the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 boards with both boards comfortable and easy to paddle they certainly stuck their heads above the pulpit to stand up and be counted in this year’s comparison. Both boards performed exactly as you would expect from a mid-priced inflatable. Strong, durable, and rigid enough to feel you can push yourself. Would these two paddleboards end up as the best all-around inflatable paddleboards of 2021? To find the answer, keep on reading…

Versatility

Versatility is a hard subject to quantify, so what we are really looking at is how suitable each board is for a number of different environments, can it be used in the surf or on the whitewater? Does it have a kayak seat option? For us, versatility is all about fun and what the inflatable paddleboard is really capable of.

The iRocker Cruiser 10’6 for us has been a stand out in versatility, built on a super tough quad-layer platform, the inflatable paddleboard offers all the rigidity and durability needed to really go anywhere and do anything. Whether you want a flatwater cruiser or a whitewater demon, the Cruiser 10’6 from iRocker is your guy! It’s also equipped with the option of adding a universal kayak seat.

As we said for us it is all about fun, and that is one place the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 really excels, with its huge 400 lbs payload means you can share the fun with friends, family, or even a dog.

One of the other boards we were most impressed with this year had to be the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11’. Much like the iRocker Cruiser, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker has the option of adding a universal kayak seat for double the fun. At 11’ it is slightly longer than the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 and has been designed as a slightly more touring orientated paddleboard due to its shape. It tends to cut through the water as opposed to lifting over making it a little more difficult in the surf. But where it picks itself back up into the spotlight is with its whopping 450 lbs maximum capacity. You can really bring the whole family!

Where versatility is concerned no one could ever forget the Red Paddle Co Ride MSL. This board is like a boomerang, no matter how hard you try to forget it and try something new, it just comes flying back at you with even more finesse.

The Ride MSL is a stalwart of the sport proving itself time and time again as a true all-around design that can go absolutely anywhere. Cruising on a lake or surfing small waves without breaking a sweat the Red Paddle Co Ride is super solid and comfortable on the water. This inflatable paddleboard just radiates fun, as you step aboard, it starts with a tingling in your toes, slowly coursing through your body, until it reaches your head and you break into a constant smile.

Next up the Nixy Newport G2 10’6. We generally found this board to be a fantastic SUP offering confidence and performance, a stable platform for SUP yoga, or a pleasant cruise on lakes, rivers, and small surf. So yes it goes everywhere and with a maximum capacity of 300lbs, it was certainly big enough for an adult and child or dog.

The Starboard Atlas Zen is certainly one of the best-received boards with its sleek lines its strong form and all-around ability but in terms of versatility, its a board with a purpose and really resting on the upper limit of all-around boards only that the tri-fin thruster set up allows the board to maneuver once you step back, with a single fin we would certainly be pushing it into a cruiser category.

Lastly in our versatility comparison comes the AquaGlide Cascade 11’. Still, a board full of promise is let down once again. For a single lightweight rider, the Cascade 11’ is an incredible board that can offer so much fun on flat water. But for just about everyone else the board feels soft and squidgy and generally lacks love. We wouldn’t recommend using this board in waves, surf, or whitewater but could be a fun board on lakes.

Stability

For many, the board’s stability can be the make or break in the purchasing of a board, for others it’s the difference between speeding into the horizon or flapping around in a soggy state. We understand the importance of stability and that is why all six boards in our 2021 best stand up paddleboard comparison are either 32” or 33” in width. Of course, it’s not just the width that governs a board’s stability but the materials, rigidity, fin position, and shape. It is also important that the board can be stable yet still be super effective and able to perform.

Of our 6 paddleboard comparison, the Starboard Atlas Zen is not only our longest board but one of our widest, this extra width allows the Starboard Atlas to be both comfortable and stable. The added length and shape make the Atlas paddleboard a great option for cruising as it picks up speed and glides with ease.

Next up the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 and Nixy Newport G2 10’6 both also have an impressive 33” beam and a whopping 6” thickness to keep you high and dry. Both of these boards are the same length and will feel similar underfoot. If anything we found the iRocker Cruiser a touch more stable into turns due to the slightly wider fin positioning.

Now back to the old faithful the Red Paddle co Ride 10’6 MSL at 32” is a little narrower than the others but this is what makes it even more fun. Due to its rock-solid rigidity, it will maintain its stability even for the novice paddler. Being a touch narrower does make it a little more agile and nimble.

The Thurso Surf at 32” is on par with the Ride 10’6”. The Waterwalker is a slightly longer board but with 3 larger fins to grip the water and keep it steady. It’s huge 450 lbs load capacity means it is super stable for even the largest of riders.

Lastly the AquaGlide Cascade 11’, at 32” it has all the potential for a stable platform but due to its materials it just doesn’t hold its air well and the spongy feel will have larger riders off balance even before the width comes into play. For lightweight riders, the Cascade can be made increasingly stable by using a larger fin to hold it steady.

Materials

With so much innovation at play, the development of new materials and techniques has really turned the inflatable standup paddleboard industry on its head in the past few years. With smaller companies allowed to figure out progressive building technologies to get the most air and best rigidity, then in turn better performance from their boards.

With the Starboard Atlas Zen and the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 MSL, you know exactly what you are going to get, a quality product every single time. These are the brands that really brought stand up paddling to the mainstream and turned it into a sport for everyone.

These brands only use the best materials and techniques to shape and build their boards. This being said, year on year they are still searching for ways to develop and improve making paddleboards lighter, stronger, and more durable. Last year we saw Red Paddle Co drive a 22-tonne digger over their board in a publicity stunt that proved the board’s durability once and for all. Of course, we prefer to test boards on the water and for us, the feel underfoot is what’s important.

Nixy has really stepped up to the plate in 2021 not just content with using standard dual-layer construction. So they went back to the drawing board to improve it. They came up with their own Advanced Fusion Technology, whereby they actually fuse the core with liquid PVC even before it is built. This provides for better air retention and saves weight. The results are on par with the Ride 10’6 and truly narrowing the gap between the top brands and everyone else.

If durability is more your thing then iRocker has gone to the extreme not only using a quad-layer of military-grade PVC but dual heat fused rails to give maximum protection and durability. Due to the heavy use of materials the board is more rigid and capable of over 23 PSI which is enormous in comparison to some of the other boards at just 15 PSI. If you want to use your board in rocky coves or tackle some whitewater then this is certainly the board for you, really built to last and designed to take whatever you can throw at it.

The Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11’ actually seems fairly boring now in comparison to some of the other boards in our line up, but don’t be fooled. Thurso Surf has used a dual-layer PVC combined with ultra-tough dual layer rails. Each is then treated with PVC coatings to make them long-lasting and ding-proof creating one of the next strongest boards on the market.

Lastly, we come to the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ unfortunately it’s just not like the races today and unfortunately its single layer of PVC with a second reinforcing band won’t be helping it out of the gate. The single layer is very much a budget board criteria and the reinforcing does nothing to stiffen things up.

Value

So now is the question of value, which of our inflatable paddleboards offers the best value for its price?

With the likes of the Starboard Zen and the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 MSL, they are both sold as board only packages. Both of the brands have worked hard to create industry-leading technology and this extends to their travel bags. Both Red Paddle Co and Starboard truly believe in portability and have included plenty of hand grabs, and wheels to their bags so you have no excuses for not taking your board absolutely everywhere.

The other accessory that Red Paddle Co really excels at is the inclusion of their Titan pump. Every other brand uses a good dual action pump like the Bravo pump or the Starboard V8 double action. These are perfect for the job, but why settle for perfect when the Titan is available? This thing is a monster delivering more air faster and more efficiently than any other and that’s why we believe it to certainly be the best in the industry.

In terms of accessories and value, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11′ is a real diamond in the rough, as one of the cheapest paddleboards in our 2020 best all-around stand up paddle boards review. We weren’t quite sure what to expect, but the whole package is absolutely loaded full of accessories.

First out of the carton was the carbon shaft SUP paddle. Next out of the box was a board leash perfect for securing the board and avoiding it going on its own adventures. Then as well as the standard repair kit and pump. The large padded transport backpack then appeared and we kept on rummaging and were greeted by a water-resistant cooler bag. This is a really nice touch and something no one else is offering, perfect for keeping drinks and snacks cool on long days out on the water.

For 2010 we were really impressed by iRocker choosing to upgrade their standard pump to a dual-chamber triple-action design, not too dissimilar from the Red Paddle co Titan pump. It certainly got us away faster than the standard pumps. Less time pumping and more time riding is certainly the best mix.

iRocker also offers the Cruiser 10’6 in six different color options, with both the board, fiberglass shafted paddle, and leash matching it. It’s a really nice option if you want something a little different.

The Nixy Newport G2 10’6 package is also very similar, but they have chosen to include one of the best bags almost on par with Red paddle co bag. Nixy has opted for a tri-wheeled design to give the best traction whether running through the airport or across the sand on the way to the beach the bag is comfortable and strong with enough space for all of your accessories.

The Newport G2 10’6 is also available in 5 different color options which is great if buying multiple boards for family or friends.

Lastly, we come back to the AquaGlide Cascade 11’ This is actually one of the more expensive boards we have reviewed and really does not stand up to its price tag. The board is sold as a board only package including just a pump and a bag with no paddle or leash included it really is hard to justify this board as a competitor to the others with its single-layer design and lack of performance. We really don’t see this board as good value for its current price.

Who Excels Where

Even within our best all-around paddleboards of 2021 comparisons, we have found ourselves creating subcategories with some boards better suited to a specific type of condition or exercise. This will always be the case with manufacturers looking for a niche.

Let’s take a look at some of the best points we have found along the way. Starting off with the Thurso Surf Waterwalker with its beautifully designed wooden effect top deck and its whopping 450 lbs maximum capacity at 11ft long the Waterwalker is ideal for the family to use as well as a solo adventure.

Next, we want to go into a whitewater frenzy we look straight to the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 with its quad-layer military-grade PVC perfect for deflecting water bombs and taking on nature at its finest. The super tough rails will bounce and bend time and time again allowing you to practice carefree without the worry of breaking or damaging your board.

Starboard has been crushing paddleboard niches since they first stood atop an old windsurf board with a kayak paddle, the Atlas 12’ Zen was no mistake. An all-around paddleboard by nature able to release and spin but let’s be honest this is one of the fastest and easiest all-round boards to paddle. Not only a dream to paddle but also has incredible stability and glide. The Atlas is one of the better cruising boards available but still gives you the option to mix it up from time to time.

As a budget board overall, the Aquaglide Cascade is good to get going but with the mid-range boards, it really struggles to hold its own. We think that the price is too high and the performance is too low. For a lighter rider, it will work out well as an introductory board but is certainly no longer competing in the all-around inflatable paddleboard market.

The Best All-Around Inflatable Paddleboard of 2021?

iRocker Cruiser 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11′	Review	Buy Now
Nixy Newport G2 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Red Paddle Co Ride MSL 10’6	Review	Buy Now
Aquaglide Cascade 11′	Review	Buy Now
Starboard Atlas Zen 12′	Review	Buy Now

So having taken all of this into careful consideration our best all-around inflatable paddleboard of 2021 has to be the iRocker Cruiser 10’6: a true warrior and all-around machine, whether you want to cruise on your local lake or tackle a little surf the iRocker Cruiser always has you covered. For a beginner the Cruiser can grow with you and last you a lifetime, for an experienced rider the iRocker Cruiser will allow you to switch things up, casual whitewater on one day and a cruise at the beach the next, all taken in its stride without breaking a sweat and for an affordable price.

iRocker has proved with their 2021 paddleboard range why they are an industry leader, carefully refining their boards to get better and better with each edition. Classy, solid, and always a whole heap of fun.

As runner-ups, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker and Nixy Newport G2 are very close to each other and are both very good inflatable paddleboards for the mid-price range. If you’re looking at the best paddleboard and don’t have to worry about the price, the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 MSL would certainly be on top. In general, the Red Paddle Ride is just a very good SUP but we think the price is just on the high side. If you find a good deal, you could buy two iRocker Cruiser paddleboards for the price of one Red Paddle Ride MSL board… For our SUP test team, it was an easy decision to mark the iRocker Cruiser above the Red Paddle board.

So buy your new paddleboard and let’s go paddle!

February 2, 2020

Gili Sports Adventure 11′ Review
Gili Sports is a rider-owned business with an enormous passion for standup paddle boards! Although they have not been in the SUP business as long as other brands, Gili Sports has great knowledge and is creating real quality boards.

The 11’ Adventure is no exception building on the popular all-around Gili Air 10’6 and creating an even more versatile package ready to pump up and take anywhere.

Keep on reading to find out what we thought.

Specifications

Length 11’

Width 32”

Thickness 6”

Weight 19 lbs

Weight Capacity 290 lbs

Review

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Materials

The Gili Sports 11’ Adventure is a board designed to get your attention, it lures you in with its beautifully designed deck. Available in either a blue and grey or a bright yellow and grey color scheme. Just like a parrot it demands and wants you to take a closer look.

On the inside, the highest quality drop stitch core combines the top and bottom decks through thousands of tiny strands to hold the board firm and steady. On top of this Gili Sports use a Fusion technology whereby the machine fuses the core to the duel outer layer of military-grade PVC. This leads to a perfect finish every time without bubbles or flat spots that can sometimes be found with hand laminated boards.

This board has really been constructed with the user in mind. By combining the latest technology, overall the board has become very light and strong.

Deck Pad

The large EVA pad is both grippy and soft so whether you are riding barefooted or seated on the board there’s plenty of padding and support.

Aesthetically the black deck pad combines beautifully on either color to create a great looking board that is both stylish and fun.

D-rings + Bungee

If you like to accessorize then the Gili Sports 11’ adventure is just the ticket packed to capacity with 17 D rings.

The 11’ Adventure is a true explorer with two gear storage areas. Upfront is a large 6 point bungee and then on the tail an extra 4 points. Also on the tail of the board, you will find the ever-important board leash D ring ready to clip on and go.

Gili Sports have really thought about every possibility by combining functionality and usability. Maybe you want to add a kayak seat and footrest for some extra comfort? Or a tie-down cooler for a cheeky lunch stop? Either way, the Adventure 11’ really takes you to another level.

Along with its multitude of D rings the Adventure 11’ also features not two but three comfortable hand grabs. The first one is in the center of the board for easy carrying, a second on the tail to aid launching the board, and a third upon the nose of the board to make recovery super easy. Gili sports have actually thought of everything.

Fins

Gili sports have switched the fin set up on their shorter 10’6 last season and have subsequently stuck with this latest tri-fin set up on the 11’ Adventure.

The two smaller thrusters are made from a durable rubber that can bend and move as you touch the ground to avoid damage. In the center, Gili has used a larger snap-in fin designed to be quick and easy to position. The center fin sits in a tight system with no excess movement and requires no tools.

This gives you the extra benefits of a larger center fin for tracking and stability but the ease of removal for transport and storage.

By using a tri-fin set up the board is able to turn and maneuver quicker. Having a better response allows you to use the board in surf or whitewater as well as casual cruising and exploring.

To make this board even more versatile, we would love to see Gili release a couple of different sized fins to complement the standard 9-inch nylon fin provided for ever-changing conditions.

Inflate/Deflate

The Gili Sports Adventure 11’ as we know has been built on a super solid drop stitch core with a double layer of military-grade PVC to form a shape that is both awesome on the water and super durable. All you need to do now is add some air.

Gili Sports recommends a pressure of 15 PSI in all of their boards. However, for a heavier rider, you can use a little more, pushing up to 16 or 17 PSI to give a really firm ride underfoot.

The instructions say that if you are really fit that this task can be accomplished in under 5 minutes with the use of their own dual action pump. We personally found that at a fairly mediocre pace (not breaking a sweat) it is realistic to have the board pumped up and ready to float in 7-10 minutes.

Of course, to make your life a bit easier, you could get an electric SUP pump!

Once you have finished your voyage it’s time to roll up and pack away but doesn’t despair it’s super easy to get stowed. Simply head to the tail of the board, press in the valve, and twist it a quarter of a turn. The twist will keep the valve open allowing the air to expel as you carefully roll up the board. Once finished twist the valve back to its original position to keep the air out until you next want to take it out.

Overall Performance

Any time a new product crosses our desk we are filled with anticipation and excitement to get it out of its cardboard box and set it free on the water. As always Gili Sports have truly delivered on what might even be the best all-around package of an inflatable SUP. Having previously tested the Gili Sports Air 10’6 we already had high expectations of what to expect from its bigger brother the Adventure 11′.

Out of the box, the first thing you notice is the array of accessories that are supplied with the Adventure 11’. From its carbon fiber paddle and leash to its bag and pump; the box is just full of surprises.

Looking at the design of the board you can see a great rocker profile. But what is the purpose? To help combat chop and aid in preventing nose drives in turbulent conditions. Which we found it to do just that.

We launched directly from shore really utilizing the addition of a rear launching handle to easily position the board before stepping aboard. As we gently paddled away full of hope and anticipation we were a little worried just in case the board didn’t deliver.

Lucky for us our calls were answered, the board sat up well and proceeded headlong into the distance, cruising with ease and holding its line. The board really felt stable and seemed to take everything in its stride.

We decided to take the board on our own mini-adventure testing it to its fullest. In a straight line at 11 feet long it is still not huge but for an all-around board, it carried its speed well and had enough glide to make any distance pleasurable. As we twisted and turned the board was both predictable and decisive, it was easy to control and move in any direction. We were worried that the rear cargo area would inhibit pivot turns but due to its extra rocker, it released from the water and spun with ease.

We liked the stable feel of the board and think for a beginner it will really inspire confidence even for a heavier rider. As an intermediate rider, the board’s performance is actually much better than its price tag would dictate. We enjoyed paddling the Gili Sports Adventure 11′ even taking in some small wind waves and coming through the other side with speed and grace.

Accessories

Paddle

The team at Gili Sports has really tried to put some fun back into paddling by including a lightweight hybrid breakdown paddle. What stands out about this paddle is its carbon shaft along with a nylon blade.

Utilizing such materials makes it super durable for pushing and punting off of the floor/banks etc. It also gives a super stiff shaft that is lightweight and warmer to touch than traditional aluminum shafts.

Leash

With safety a primary concern for anyone taking to the sport, a leash is an essential accessory.

Gili Sports have been good enough to include a nice coiled leash with a comfortable ankle strap. You’ll find enough length to allow you to wander comfortably on your board.

Pump

Included with the Gili Sports Adventure is a nice 2 stage dual action pump allowing you to quickly and easily inflate your board. The pump offers a high volume mode for getting air quickly into your board then once the pumping becomes difficult you can turn the switch and change it into high volume mode.

Not only does the dual-action pump work well but it also looks great! Following the same color styling as the other accessories, the contrasts stand out from the crowd.

Bag

Following on with Gili Sports love of color matching comes the bag. For any inflatable stand up paddleboard you want it to be as portable as possible, and for that reason a good bag is essential.

With the Adventure 11′, Gili Sports has delivered not only a fashionable bag but a functional piece that is well suited and easy to use.

One of the first things you notice is the huge zipper opening of the bag. Opening nearly 3 complete sides of the bag to make loading and unloading really easy.

Inside the bag, you have a good cinch band to hold your board snug and plenty of space for accessories. On the outside, you have another mesh pocket that can be used for the paddle. The padded shoulder straps fit nicely with the aid of both a waist and chest strap which are essentials for carrying any distance at all.

Overall the bag works really well and the grey / blue styling is a really nice touch.

Pros
- Sold as a complete package with everything you need
- Carbon fiber paddle is a super addition
- Stable and comfortable
- A great looking color scheme
- Huge possibility for customization with an array of D-rings
- 3 handles on the board make launching and recovery a breeze
- Rear cargo area means you can better balance your board on long days out
Cons
- Not the fastest board on the water but very stable and cruises well
- Only one handle on the bag makes hauling a little difficult
Conclusion

Overall we found the Gili Sports Adventure 11’ to be one of our favorite all-around boards really catering for a wide range of riders and packed full of premium features only usually found on much more expensive boards.

The Adventure 11′ package contains just about everything you need to hit the water right from the off, packed full of quality the package is hard to beat.

If you want something a little shorter, then the Gili Sports Air 10’6 is a great alternative featuring a simpler deck also making it better suited to yoga.

Their Adventure can be your adventure! Come aboard to really let your dreams of exploration come true. From gentle cruising with friends to overnight trips. To keep things versatile, the array of D-rings leaves you with plenty of options for accessorizing your board.

Pump up, stand up, and enjoy.
April 20, 2019
Gili Sports Air 10’6″ Review
Want to get outside? Are you searching for an adventure on a budget? If so then we might just have the standup paddleboard for you. The Gili Sports Air 10’6″ brings together all the things we love from other brands in a budget package ready to hit the water.

Gili Sports is a rider-owned and operated business meaning that the same people writing the cheques are out riding the boards day in day out with full confidence in their product.

The Gili Sports Air 10’6 is the most popular all-around board in the Gili lineup and the one that really took our interest with so many great features we wanted to find out just how good it was.

Keep on reading to find out what we thought.

Specifications

Length 10’6”

Width 31”

Thickness 6”

Weight 19 lbs

Weight Capacity 280 lbs

Review

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Materials

The Gili Sports Air 10’6 isn’t the highest quality of boards, but it has been built with all of the care and attention you would expect from any top-end manufacturer. Starting from the center you will find a drop-stitch core, this is the norm for all inflatable stand up paddle boards whereby thousands of tiny strands connect the top and bottom to help better hold its shape, even when under pressure.

On the outside, the PVC is a single layer military-grade fabric which is strong and well built. Being just a single layer does mean the board is a good bit lighter than double layered boards but this will lack some durability in the long term.

The finish of the board is really marvelous with a choice of three different colors to really match your style. The top deck two-tone design is both stylish and neat and the seams have been well constructed.

Overall for a budget all-around SUP board, the finish is truly outstanding.

Deck Pad

Laying atop the board is a really exceptional deck pad, made of EVA foam the pad is both comfortable and offers a remarkable amount of traction.

One feature that we really like was that the deck pad actually went right out to the rails on each side to give a marvelous shape that is extremely comfortable. The oversized deck pad is ideal for yoga as well as extra room/traction for furry friends or your kids.

The light and dark grey contrast deck pad are the same across all three colored boards and actually looks great with any color!

D-rings + Bungee

The Gili Sports Air 10’6″ is ready to go with its simple 7 D ring set up. No thrills or extras just the basics of exactly what’s needed.

Upfront, Gili has included a huge cargo area encompassing 6 D rings. The storage space is large and offers plenty of room to stow any accessories or dry sacks. The last D ring can be found on the tail, this chap is especially for your board leash to attach to.

Fins

Over the past year, Gili sports has given the Air 10’6 a quick update switching from a single fin to a superb tri-fin setup. For us, an all-round board must have tri-fin capabilities. A single fin board is ideal for cruising but just doesn’t cut the mustard as far as an all-round board goes.

The team at Gili Sports has obviously taken this on board with the update. Moving to two small rubber fixed fins and a larger removable center fin on a snap-lock fixing system. It is these two outer fins that provide the grip and drive as you turn the board, aiding stability and allowing the board to move smoothly. The larger center fin is perfect for tracking and cruising and really helps the board to hold a line.

Gili Sports use the popular snap-lock fitting, this allows the large center fin to attach quickly and securely without the need for tools. This also means it can be removed easily before packing so it’s out of the way when rolling the board.

The center fin is made from a hard plastic which is stiff and sturdy, whereas the two outer fins are shorter and made from a flexible rubber designed to bend and bounce on obstacles.

Overall this is a great mix and provides the ideal platform for an all-round board setup.

Inflate/Deflate

The Gili Sports Air 10’6” is a single layer with a recommended pressure of 12-15PSI, this is ideal for small to medium riders but for larger riders, you probably want to be a little more generous to give you a much stiffer board.

Inflation is super easy with the included dual-action pump, simply connect the valve to the hose and start pumping. Be aware the needle on the pump usually will not move until you get to about 7PSI (about 4 minutes) after this you can easily follow your progress on the built-in pressure gauge. To reach 15 PSI will take you anywhere between 7 and 9 minutes depending on how athletic you are feeling. Of course, an electric pump can make this a lot easier.

For deflation simply open the valve on the tail and start rolling, if you have a friend at hand, get them to sit on the board as you roll to help expel the last of the air!

Another handy hint! Did you know you can always switch the air hose on your pump to help suck out the last of the air? Leave you with that out of the box feel once more.

Overall Performance

When the Gili Sports Air 10’6” was first passed across our desk we thought we were in for just another basic board but as we unwrapped the carton our eyes lit up, packed full of features we were already impressed.

The carton was a bit like Aladdin’s cave all we were missing was a genie to pop out. As we cleared the mountain of plastic wrap, we were left looking at just about everything we could need to hit the water straight away.

As we rolled up to the cove we set about pumping, setting into a rhythm for the long haul so we were very surprised that in just 8 minutes we were already fully inflated and ready for action.

We finished off snapping together the paddle and attaching the ankle leash before jumping aboard.

On the water, the board felt surprisingly stable and predictable. The large center fin really enabled the board to track well and cover some distance with ease. Due to the single-layer construction, the board felt light and nimble and was able to turn and accelerate quickly.

Overall the Gili Sports Air 10’6” definitely exceeded our expectations for a budget paddle board. As a beginner, the Gili will feel sturdy and stable allowing you to take your first steps onto the water in confidence. For a more advanced rider, you will certainly feel the flex in the board but will be surprised just how well it paddles, certainly holding its own against other similar boards.

Once off the water, we were extremely impressed by how well the board packed down quickly and easily, all slipping into its storage bag (oversized backpack) with ease ready to play another day.

Accessories

Paddle

Included with the Gili Sports Air 10’6 is a basic stand up paddleboard paddle. Built with an aluminum shaft and a nylon blade it isn’t the lightest of all paddles. Though it is virtually indestructible, making it perfect for a novice who just wants to get going or a child for bashing around. The aluminum is cold to touch and the nylon very flexible but ideal for punting around the sand. A nice touch is that the paddle is supplied in the matching color for your board package and packs down neatly into your board bag for easy storage.

Leash

It is always nice to receive a board leash as part of the package; the leash is certainly one of the most underrated accessories which can mean the difference for a beginner between a long swim and quickly remounting the board.

The color-coordinated leash sits comfortably around the ankle and attaches easily to the tail D ring of the board. In the past, we have tried a selection of leashes but for flatwater and cruising the coiled is certainly our favorite sitting up high on the board with no chance to snag in weeds.

Pump

One of the best accessories included with the Gili Sports Air 10’6 has to be the pump. This double action pump is smooth and comfortable to use. Starting in high volume mode you can quickly get the board up to about 8-10 PSI before inserting the plug and switching it to high-pressure mode to easily reach the desired 15 PSI of pressure.

The pump is the same as found with many higher-end boards so was a really nice addition to this budget package.

Bag

There is no point owning a portable piece of sports equipment unless you actually have a way of transporting it. Now that’s why the Gili Sports Air 10’6 is sold with a great looking bag included.

The stylish bag has a single front opening compartment which is large enough to store your board and all accessories. The zip is tough and will hold everything securely inside.

On the outside the oversized rucksack straps are large and padded, they are designed to be comfortable. Even though this is one of the lightest inflatable stand up paddleboards on the market, a bit of comfort while you carry your Gili will really make your day much more pleasurable.

One thing we felt was missing from the bag were cinching straps inside to hold the board secure. It is not essential but certainly a nice extra option.

Repair Kit

Lastly the little orange tube of fun and happiness, the repair kit. This is the one item you hope never to need but is important you always have it nearby to get you back on the water as soon as possible.

Included in the repair kit you will find a couple of patches, a valve wrench, and a tube of adhesive. It is important to understand how it works as you can’t be sure youtube will connect whilst you are out adventuring!

Pros
- 3 Great color options to choose from
- Sold as a full package including everything you need to hit the water
- The bag is large and spacious for board and accessories
- Tri fin set up is the perfect addition
- The pump is one of the best we have seen for the price
- The leash is comfortable to wear
Cons
- Single-layer construction not as durable as a double layer
- No key pocket on the ankle leash
- Unfortunately, no cinch straps inside of the bag
- For the heavier rider, the Gili Sports Air does have some flex
Conclusion

Overall, we found the Gili Sports Air 10’6″ to be one of the best all-around boards we have come across for the price, it’s a full package which is perfect for any beginner wanting to have a go or for an intermediate rider looking for a spare board for friends or family. The colors are great and the package is awesome.

If you have a bit more cash to spend then certainly check out the Gili Sports Adventure 11′ or some of the mid-range boards from Nixy or Thurso Surf as both are double layers constructions that will be much more durable in the long run. But if you are on a budget you will be hard done to find anything as complete as the Gili package for the money.

All of the boards from Gili are covered by a 12-month warranty which is a real representation of the trust in their product!

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up, pump up, and enjoy paddling!
April 14, 2019
iRocker Cruiser 10’6” Review
Let’s get this straight, you’re looking to buy an inflatable SUP and wondering if the iRocker Cruiser 10’6“ standup paddleboard is a good choice? Simple: yes, yes it is!

The 10’6 Cruiser from iRocker has been designed and built with stability in mind, building on previous years designs to create {in our Opinion} the best edition yet!

iRocker is a new company in terms of Stand Up Paddleboard business only being on the market for a few years. But they have built on many years of waterman experience as a company owned and operated by riders.

This has led to them already gaining a huge presence within the industry. Creating products that they want and need. Whilst testing them to the highest standards and winning multiple awards along the way.

The iRocker 10’6 Cruiser is currently the most popular board from iRocker’s offerings. Creating a board suitable for any water user. From fishing to yoga or just hanging out the Cruiser has become an instant classic.

You can rest easy knowing other people like ourselves have already “bought and tried” and rate the iRocker Cruiser 10’6″ standup paddleboard highly.

Don’t settle on only our word for it either. Many customer reviews after purchasing give this board a bright and beaming thumbs up nearly every time.

Already sold? Head there now!

WELCOME TO THE BEST REVIEW OF THE iROCKER 10’6″ CRUISER STANDUP PADDLEBOARD!

Specifications

Length 10’ 6”

Thickness 6”

Width 33”

Weight 25 lbs

Capacity 350 lbs

What You’ll Get When You Purchase The iRocker Cruiser 10’6
- The SUP Itself
- iRocker Ergonomic Back Pack
- Adjustable Fiberglass Paddle
- iRocker Ankle Leash
- Dual Action Hand Pump
- Repair Kit
Review

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Materials

The 10’6 Cruiser has been built on the existing range of iRocker boards, using many of the same quality components and technologies to build a board with the user in mind.

For 2019 the iRocker Cruiser has been updated with a quad-layer military-grade PVC outer skin. This has really improved the board’s durability. Adding stiffness and rigidity to the board, in some cases making it difficult to tell the inflatable apart from a solid design. The 4 layer material is durable and resilient to scuffs and bumps. Setting this board up as a perfect board for a beginner without the worry of puncture or damage even when trying to tap dance on it.

If for some reason you thought throwing your iRocker 10’6 Cruiser off a cliff face was a good idea, you would be pleasantly surprised to find it most likely intact and merely scratched at the bottom. Please don’t throw your SUP off a cliff though.

Manufactured with – take a breath – Triple-layer military grade drop-stitch material.

A big sentence with a big punch. You can shoot over here to get a full explanation or you can take our word for it when we say drop-stitching is the top-dog when it comes to durable manufacturing for inflatables. You’ll see the same materials being used across all of the inflatable markets. When the crowd says yes, you know something’s got to be right.

The dual fusion heat-welded seams are built to last, with each and every board tested before leaving the factory and the zero failure rate proving both quality and durability.

iRocker also offers a 2-year guarantee on any of their lineup, this shows that the company trusts their product and is happy to repair or replace any manufacturing problems within the first two years. Of course, if you paddle it under a ferry it is probably not going to be covered. But then again having seen how durable the board is we would probably expect to see it float out unscathed.

Inside the board is a high-density drop stitch internal core, this provides the strength and stiffness needed to carry up to 400 pounds with little flex whilst maintaining its form and profile.

Overall we have been very impressed with the quality of materials found on all of the iRocker range. They have managed to combine premium materials to create a board that is super strong and durable.

Deck Pad

The deck pad is designed to provide both comfort and grip on the board. As well as looking great and giving your board some personality. The iRocker Cruiser 10’6 is no exception featuring an extra-long pad running all the way to the tail. This year the deck pad is also available in 6 different colors; this is surely just to make your decision even more difficult!

This year’s extra-long deck pad allows you plenty of options from paddling tandem with friends or family or for bringing a dog out on your waterborne adventure.

The latest branded EVA Foam deck pad features an improved crocodile skin type texture on top of the diamond pattern. This is to give even better traction, even when wet.

Making it even easier for you to master those Sup Yoga headstands. The extra cushioning this year gives better comfort for all-day use and allows even heavier paddlers to gain extra comfort without having to compromise on board stiffness.

D-rings + Bungee

How many D-rings would you like? The Cruiser is equipped with 11 stainless steel D-Rings! Yes, Eleven! That is not an error, we have counted and double-checked just to be sure.

So you wonder what you could possibly do with 11 D-Rings, let us explain…

At the front of the board, way up on the nose iRocker have given you 6 D-rings with a strong elasticated bungee. This is your cargo area, providing a space to safely store any essentials. We certainly also recommend clipping things on, just so you can’t lose them. On the D-rings, you can also click a special SUP dry bag, like the stylish designed DeckBagZ.

As we move to the middle of the board you will find an extra 4 D-rings these are positioned way out on the wings so you will barely notice them, unless you are looking.

These are designed to add a universal kayak seat to your Cruiser, this then opens up the possibility of two new sports for the price of one. Or it offers the flexibility if you just want to sit and paddle with some extra comfort and support for a while.

As you look behind you at the tail of the board you will see a slightly larger D-Ring. This one is designed to attach your leash (included with the board package) so in the event of a tumble, the board will stay close by and not float off into the horizon.

The D-rings are all securely welded to the board and super strong to allow the accessories to be used confidently without fear of damage or misuse.

Fins

As we know fins give us a direction in life, they help us run straight and true, whether your shredding huge waves or searching for the green room the fins will assist you in maintaining a course.

The iRocker Cruiser 10’6 is equipped with a tri-fin setup. This features two smaller rubber fixed fins and a third larger center fin, which can be quickly and easily removed.

The outer fins are designed to flex and bounce so if you decide to use the board on a river or close to shore, you can do so without fear of damage. The larger center fin can then be added when you head for deeper water. The fin is easily inserted, with no tools required. To give you extra tracking and directional capabilities.

Portability

The iRocker Cruiser is ultra-portable. Why may you ask? Aside from the obvious that it’s an inflatable, the new improved carry bag iRocker designed, of which the iRocker Cruiser was the first receiver, makes long-distance walking with your SUP a breeze.

The bag has full support around the waist and shoulders as well as generous padding. Inside and outside the bag are straps to stop your gear from shifting around causing uneven weight distribution. There’s also a large amount of extra space in the pack even after packing in the bag, paddle, and pump.

Finally, the board itself has a material handle in the middle after inflation transportation.

Inflate/Deflate

iRocker recommends inflating the board to a pressure of 15PSI. Even though the board is capable of more they say that nothing extra is gained. This is due to the drop-stitch core and quad ply PVC keeping the board rigid even without the additional pressure required.

For most users inflating can take between 5-10 minutes, but of course, this will depend on how fast you pump.

For those traveling by car, it’s possible to also use a plugin electric compressor to get started then use the pump to bring it up to optimal pressure.

The pumps are built with a gauge clearly marked with required pressure. This makes it super easy to get it right.

All of the boards have been designed by riders meaning they really want you spending maximum time on the water and not constantly pumping boards. That’s why they supply a dual-action pump which reduces the inflation time considerably.

A piece of useful information that many people do not realize is: that It is actually possible to leave the board inflated, if you are using multiple days and have space then there is actually no need to deflate after each use to save time the following day.

Of course, the biggest benefit of an inflatable stand-up paddleboard is the packed downsize making it great for storage.

Deflation is even more simple. Open the valve and push the little pin in and voila! You can roll your board up and store it neatly away in the carry bag.

Overall Performance

The only true test of a board is not sitting on a shelf or rolled up in a bag gathering dust. A SUP is designed to be used, designed to take you on your next adventure. To carry your dreams and turn them into reality.

On the water, the iRocker 10’6 Cruiser SUP is an absolute joy to paddle. The board is stiff and rigid even when carrying a larger rider. For the beginner, the Cruiser 10’6 just oozes confidence.

The confidence to try something new and the familiar feeling of a board that’s like an old friend. After just a few paddle strokes everything feels normal. With no feeling of being lost of uncomfortable on the board really plays to its advantage.

For an intermediate paddler who would like to improve their board skills, the Cruiser offers a sense of knowing and is predictable something not found with many other models. The option to paddle further or longer than before whilst being comfortable is what sets this board apart right from the offset.

As we have said the extra stability is one of the main bonuses of this board but unfortunately this does mean it lacks some speed. This is in our opinion is not a big issue, as for many people you are not looking at breaking records, but for something that is both fun and active.

For 2019 the board was given a slight change in its shape. Increasing the rocker has made the board easier to lift up and go through choppy waters and small waves.

The slight change in form and the addition of the quad-layer PVC really have stiffened things up. With very little flex across the length of the board even when being used by a larger rider. This allows all the power you put into your stroke to be transferred to the water as you hear the gentle slapping of the water under the hull of the board.

A dual carrying handle system makes transporting and carrying the board much easier than before. With the center carry handle covered with a neoprene cover for comfort and ease of use and the rear large handle on the tail ideal to aid launching and recovery.

It is also possible to purchase an extra carrying strap for the iRocker Cruiser which clips onto the D-Rings for carrying the board longer distances.

You can probably tell we love how the board feels on the water. If you look at some other boards on the market that are similar such as the 10’6 Isle All-Rounder their max capacity is 240 lbs. The iRocker Cruiser is 350 lbs. Even if you don’t need that extra weight what that is telling you is, that you’ve got a buoyant board that will feel rock solid no matter what the conditions are when you go paddling.

As you paddle around you will not even notice as the water passes under your feet the effortless glide will feel like a stroll in the park.

Accessories

Paddle

What would you say if we told you that they offer a premium paddle in their standard package? You would probably laugh at us. But alas that is exactly what the guys at iRocker have done.

By doing away with the standard aluminum paddle they have now included an ultra-portable and lightweight fiberglass paddle. Fiberglass paddles are half the weight of aluminum paddles and are longer lasting.

The paddle is brightly color coordinated to your board and looks great. The other huge advantage that it divides easily into three pieces meaning that it can be stored in the same bag as the board. This makes traveling aboard a bus or taxi that little bit easier. The paddle is also super adjustable to really suit all sizes of riders.

Leash

Just like a dog sometimes your board needs to be restrained. Usually at that moment when you try to show off and go tumbling off of the back and the board heads off into the distance.

That’s why the safety-conscious guys at iRocker decided you should probably have a board leash from day one.

The strong coiled leash is supplied with your board and even in the same color option as your deck pad. A really nice little touch meaning you can spend even more time trying to show off! This leash has the ability to stretch 5X its length making certain no board will come slingshotting back at your face if you happen to take a plunge. Also for your convenience and safety is a stash spot on the ankle for your keys.

Backpack

2019 has seen a whole host of upgrades go into the iRocker Cruiser. One of our favorites has to be the durability of the new bag. The old bag felt a little thin and uncomfortable. With this in mind and by listening to the concerns of users iRocker has upgraded the bag to a premium quality sack.

With enough space for the board plus all of the accessories, the updated bag features super padded straps and a waist belt to make carrying a breeze. The wide waist belt carries all of the weight of the bag and this really stands out compared to a bag of other brands.

The best way to keep your board portable is definitely to make transporting easy, and that’s exactly what has been accomplished. The quality zipper can open the bag very far, creating a huge opening to place your deflated board inside the backpack. The cinching straps hold everything firm no matter if you need to run for a bus or cycle to the beach.

The backpack of the iRocker Cruiser 10’6″ has been improved a lot compared to the previous model. It’s comfortable and easy to take your inflatable paddleboard with you, together with all its accessories.

Dual Action Pump

For the perfect pre-paddle workout the dual-action hand pump twists into the rear valve. From here on in it’s all up to you. Once pumping you can watch as the needle of the iSUP rises. With many users recommending 5-10 minutes to inflate their boards up to the optimal 15PSI. However, some users report finding it a bit difficult past about 10 PSI, a little pro trick, switch the pump back to a single action. You’ll find it incredibly easier. We have been informed of people pumping it up in 3 and a half minutes but it really does depend on how fast you pump.

If you want an easier approach you can purchase an electric pump that will assist the process and make things much easier. But then again where is the fun in that!

The iRocker dual action pump is not just a normal dual action pump you can get with every other paddleboard. You’ll notice how quickly you can inflate your board (try it with another brand pump!) and you won’t even notice this ultra-lightweight pump in your pack either.

Repair Kit

Accidents can happen even though the quad-layer board is extremely durable you must always plan for the unexpected and that’s exactly why a simple repair kit is always included. Containing a couple of patches, valve wrench, and spare flip-lock switch for your center fin it contains all you need to get you quickly back on the water.

If anyone manages to puncture this board please comment below! I can imagine it would have to be an entertaining tale as to how you could puncture a board this tough. If god forbid you to do, no worries to be had, a simple patch up out of the included repair kit will get you going again in no time.

(Separate Purchase) Kayak Bundle

The option to add a universal kayak seat to the mix has been a firm favorite of ours. Since the SUP market really took hold of the inflatable sports market. The option of two sports for the price of one is something that really appeals to us, and allows the board to be a much more accessible piece of equipment.

In the kayak bundle, you’ll receive a comfortable, cushioned seat that is easily attached by the 4 D-rings located in the middle of the SUP. Also in the bundle is another blade which is a simple addition to the other end of your paddle, turning your stand up into a sit-down!

Pros
- Stable
- Cost $$
- High-quality accessories
- Beginner-friendly
- Ultra-portable
- All necessary startup equipment included
- Handles up to 350 lbs
- An amazing lineup of 6 different colors available
- Matching leashes and paddles that go with your chosen deck pad color
- The inclusion of the lightweight fiberglass paddle makes it a much more enjoyable experience
- Being able to add a kayak seat at a later stage to really expand your options
- 2-year warranty provides peace of mind
Cons
- A slower board to paddle than other narrower designs
Conclusion

The latest edition of the Cruiser 10’6 from iRocker has certainly opened our eyes as to what can be achieved in just a few years and a lot of hard work.

Having previously seen the last edition we didn’t think it could get any better but boy were we wrong!

The company has gone from strength to strength and the iRocker Cruiser 10’6 is set to be an instant classic. Building on the brand’s successful line up to create a truly user-friendly experience without compromise.

The Cruiser is aimed at both the beginner and the intermediate rider, designed to be stable and provide confidence, whilst offering the predictability of higher-priced standup paddleboards.

The high-quality materials and technology is something far more advanced than the price point implies. For us, this board really goes above and beyond and will be a huge success.

If you have done some paddling before, and really want something to take you to the next level you can also take a look at the iRocker Sport 11’. The slightly longer board is both narrower and less stable. But by compromising the stability offerers you, in turn, the extra speed missing from the cruiser.

The Sport is a great board if you want to surf and move around the water. Unleashing the power of the ocean to propel you over its green peaks.

Another board offered is the iRocker All-Around series. Available in 2 sizes, they really offer exactly what they say. All-around performance. Not great for anyone thing but they offer many compromises. A great mix of stability and speed, these boards can be at home on a river or on a lake they are agile and can maneuver around the current.

For many, you really want something fun and stable and now that is exactly what the 10’6 Cruiser offers. The high payload capacity and amazing colored designs. All sold in one well-priced package, it is really hard to beat.

The iRocker Cruiser 10’6 is definitely one of our favorite boards for 2020 full of options only usually found on premium-priced boards. The Cruiser will be an instant hit for all the family straight out of the bag.
January 4, 2019
Sroka Malibu 10’6 Review
If you thought that the best things to come from France were its baguettes and patisseries then you were sorely mistaken! Are you still looking for your perfect all around paddleboard? Then this could be just the ticket. The latest Sroka Malibu 10’6 inflatable standup paddleboard is the brainchild of triple kitesurfing world champion Bruno Sroka. This Frenchman has brought to the market some of the most durable and affordable inflatable paddleboards currently available.

We love to try and test boards built by champions! These are the people that really understand the sport with inside knowledge of what it takes to succeed and to build the best performing boards that won’t let the price dictate their product.

Read on to find out just why we loved the Sroka Malibu 10’6 inflatable SUP board so much!

Specifications

Length 10’6”

Thickness 6”

Width 32”

Weight 22 lbs

Capacity 265 lbs

What You’ll Get When You Purchase The Sroka Malibu 10’6
- The inflatable SUP of course
- Sroka’s comfortable backpack
- Dual-action hand pump
- Repair Kit
Review

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Materials

Unlike many other brands Sroka uses a reinforced PVC material, much the same as found in semi-rigid speedboats and dinghies, this tough material offers a huge amount of durability. Whilst its fusion core technology helps to keep the weight down. Saving over 2kg compared to competitors’ boards.

The rails on each board are reinforced with 3 layers of the tough PVC fabric to really add to the overall rigidity of the board. This is all built on a rock-solid drop stitch core to provide the user the stiffness and performance desired.

Each year Sroka works hard to refine and develop its materials so it can always strive to offer the toughest products to its users. The Malibu 10’6″ is available in two really eye-catching colors, a vibrant blue, and an outstanding orange. The top decks are vibrant and stylish and the variety of solid colored undersides is a really nice touch to give a bit of choice to your board.

D-rings + Bungee

The Malibu 10’6 has opted for just two D-rings one on the tail to attach a board leash and one under the nose which can be used for towing or tieing down your board. The decklines are secured through fabric tabs, something we have not seen on other boards but certainly a great option for reducing weight and bulk. On the other hand, having only 2 D-rings really limits the possibility for tieing things down.

Deck Pad

The comfortable contoured EVA deck pad offers good coverage and is super comfortable underfoot, providing plenty of grips even when wet. These dual-colored deck pads are subtle, sleek, and stylish.

Fins

The Malibu 10’6″ is shipped with 3 removable fins, this means you can really optimize your set up between being a cruiser or an all-around this is a real advantage if you want to use your board in a variety of conditions. The easy fitting makes it quick and easy to add or remove fins and is definitely a great option for reducing bulk when storing.

Inflate/Deflate

The Sroka Malibu 10’6″ has the feel of a performance board, this is largely due to its form and build quality the strong drop-stitch core is ready to hold 15 – 17 PSI of pressure and takes about 8-9 minutes to reach its optimum pressure.

Overall Performance

Once you’ve arrived at the beach, unrolled your board, and pumped it up to optimal pressure it’s really time to hit the water.

For us, this is the most fun part of the whole experience. As we push off from the sand into the warm waters we always have a moment of wondering just how a board will feel. Will it surprise us? Or just what’s going to happen?

The Malibu 10’6 felt firm and stable underfoot, the solid feel really inspired confidence right from the first paddle strokes. As we cruised around the bay we felt the board tracking straight and true. We felt fully in control and the 32” beam really allowed us to get from rail to rail quickly and still turn on a dime. The tri-fin set up was forgiving yet really versatile for any situation, the board felt strong and really durable. We were able to cruise, maneuver, and even surf some small waves with ease.

For the beginner or intermediate rider, the Sroka Malibu is a board that wants to keep on giving, it’s a board that you won’t grow out of and offers enough volume to share the ride with a child or dog so everyone can enjoy the experience.

Accessories

Paddle

Just to be clear, a paddle is not included with the Malibu 10’6 package deal so definitely remember to order one at the time of purchase so you can get straight out and enjoy!

Sroka carbon fiber paddle – not included in the package deal!

For the testing of this Sroka SUP, we had the opportunity to try out the new carbon fiber paddle of Sroka, and man, that’s such a nice light paddle! Sometimes you get a cheap aluminum paddle included in your SUP package but, most of the time, people find it too heavy and not easy to use. So we fully understand Bruno Sroka (especially since he’s a three times world champion and has lots of knowledge in this field) to leave out a cheap aluminum paddle and let the buyer chose his/her paddle. Just think about how much you’ll use the paddle while paddleboarding… It’s certainly worthy to invest in a good quality paddle! Saying that; just get the Sroka carbon fiber paddle! It even looks good with the Malibu board 🙂

Pump

Sroka has really listened when people have said they want more time on the water and less time pumping. By using a really nice dual action pump the Malibu can be up and ready to paddle in as little as 8 minutes. The dual-action pump allows both high volume and high-pressure input to really get the board up to 15-17PSI as quickly and easily as possible.

Bag

So the main reason for buying an inflatable is for its incredible portability, this is aided by the bag. This edition of the Malibu 10’6” is 20% lighter with its fusion technology making it even more portable. The backpacks are built in two colors either orange or blue to match your board. Each bag is designed to fit the board perfectly with enough space for all your accessories. The stylish bags are strong, durable, and built to last with added padded backpack straps for comfortable carrying.

Repair Kit

A small repair kit is included with every board, be sure to familiarise yourself with your repair kit and add any extra pieces you may need when disaster strikes.

Pros
- Triple-layered rails are super durable
- Fusion technology sheds precious 20% of the weight
- Included pump is fast and easy to use
- Tri fin set up is versatile and easy to use
- Great looking colorful design available in two colors
Cons
- No paddle or leash is included in the package
- Only 2 D-rings on the board
Conclusion

The Sroka Malibu 10’6” is certainly an inflatable stand up paddle board designed and built by a world champion with all the performance needed for an expert to rip, or for a beginner to hop on and cruise away with ease.

The versatility of the Malibu 10’6 is the perfect example of a paddleboard that really suits the whole family. Whether heading away on your own or with a child on board the Malibu has the stability and performance to paddle with ease.

If you want a shorter board certainly check out the Malibu 10’ from the Sroka lineup for a more compact option.

All Sroka SUP boards are covered by a 2-year warranty on the PVC and a year on manufacturing, this is sure proof of the trust they give to their materials and technologies.

If you really want one board for all, the Sroka Malibu 10’6 is a great priced all-around paddleboard still offering amazing performance and versatility for all users.
October 14, 2018
Nixy Newport G2 10’6” Review
Nixy standup paddleboards philosophy: we build boards we want to paddle! The Nixy Newport G2 10’6” inflatable SUP has been developed and manufactured by a passionate family and this shows in every possible way: affordable, lightweight and easy to use!

A company built by a family who wanted to build the perfect inflatable paddleboard, which at the time simply didn’t exist. So they put their heads together to create the best product for them. Luckily they loved it so much they wanted to share it with you. And there it is the Nixy Newport G2 10’6 paddleboard!

A brand built on simple times, born of a passion for the outdoors, paddle boarding and spending time with family. A perfect combination! Now let’s check out this all-around board!

Specifications

Length 10’6”

Width 33”

Thickness 6”

Weight 17 lbs

Weight Capacity 300 lbs

Review

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Materials

When the family at Nixy decided that they wanted to build the best paddleboard possible, they did so with a vision. The intention was not to follow the crowd. They wanted to be the trendsetter, and that they have done.

By taking everyone else’s double layer, Nixy has squished it and changed it into a stiffer, much lighter compound. Yet still, with the incredible durability, we have all come to expect.

Nixy was not content with a standard drop-stitch core, so they improved it. Building on the existing technology but adding some extra reinforcement to give a high tensile experience capable of 20 PSI for a top notch solid feel.

Nixy then took the standard dual-layer PVC all the way back to the drawing board, in the latest school of thought they have managed to combine the layers directly to the core through a fusion technology.

This process is done by machine, exterminating once and for all any build errors which we have seen from other hand built board brands. Additionally, its dual-layered rails keeping its form tight and durable. Creating an absolute airtight system that feels and performs like a hardboard SUP.

Deck Pad

If you are looking for a super comfortable blow up paddle board to paddle, whether sitting, kneeling or standing the Nixy Newport G2 has you covered. With one of the biggest deck pads, we have ever seen. Covering over 75% of the board’s deck, the soft EVA deck pad will give you the utmost comfort in any situation.

An ideal companion if you want to try some SUP yoga. The traction pad is more than long enough for any crane, cow or downward facing dog pose you want to try. Although Nixy does have a special yoga board, the Venice G2, if you mostly want to get the board for SUP yoga!

The diamond-patterned deck pad features a crocodile skin texture this makes the deck marvelously grippy offering a sensational level of support even when wet. Do you like style? The deck pad of the all-around Nixy paddleboard is available in a range of five colors to suit your own preference. All color options feature the classy two-tone colorway for a really professional look to this incredible board.

D-rings + Bungee

As we take a closer look at the Nixy Newport G2 inflatable paddleboard you will quickly notice the large elasticated cargo area up on the front deck. Created by 4 well placed D-rings this is the ideal spot to tuck away those everyday essentials. Flip-flops, sun hat or even a bottle of wine. (We did say essentials!)

On the tail of the Newport G2, you will notice that the rear D-ring sits out proudly ready to attach your leash. Nixy has really cleaned up the tail of the board by shifting the valve up front. It gives a clean appearance and nothing to snag your leash on.

In the center of the board, the Nixy Newport G2 has 2 ideally placed D-rings for attaching an optional kayak seat for lazy days on the water or ideal for persons with reduced mobility. Just keep note that only the kayak seat purchased through Nixy will fit. The universal kayak seat needs 4 D-rings.

The last D-ring, of the 8 in total, is actually on the underside of the board. Way up on the nose this is ideal for towing the paddleboard either from another SUP or from a boat. This position of the D-ring is actually very well thought-through since the position is important as being on the underside allows the nose to lift and plane along the water as opposed to towing from a deck mounted D ring whereby the nose will pearl and catch the water’s surface making it difficult to tow.

Fins

Every brand has a different idea for fins, different setups, and positions. When we rolled the Nixy Newport G2 iSUP over we were firstly delighted to see that they have stuck to a traditional all-around tri fin set up. But by utilizing 3 removable fins in a toolless thumb screw system.

This gives you the best of options, from completely removing all three fins to create a beach lounger to switching between a single fun cruiser of tri-fin all-around setup.

We found the toolless system uses oversized thumb screws to tighten, these are really quick and easy to use and once fitted the fins felt secure and rock solid.

It’s nice to be able to remove the fins for storage but not essential as the board still fits its bag with the fins attached.

We found the fin size was good and slightly bigger than other brands which certainly offered better stability and grip right when you needed it most.

Inflate/Deflate

So you’ve carefully unrolled your new Nixy paddleboard. You’ve found the pump and inflation hose, you are about to get going. You look down to the tail of the board and there’s no valve?

Is this a mistake? Witchcraft? Is this a magical self-inflating board?

Nope, It is no mistake and unfortunately no witchcraft or wizardry no matter how many times you say the spell it just won’t self-inflate. Roll your eyes forward over the deck and you will spot the high-quality valve sitting unobstructed on the nose.

This is something not commonly found on other boards but does make a lot of sense. First of all the nose of the board usually stays high and dry out of the water meaning that the cover is less likely to snag on weeds and you can quickly see if it manages to come open.

The other useful reason for this forward position is that it actually aids you in packing down the board. Allowing you to open the valve and then simply start rolling from the tail and it will expel the air as you go. This leaves your fins nice and safe on the inside of the board once rolled.

The team at Nixy recommend a pressure of 15 – 20 PSI. This will depend on the weight of the rider with lighter riders requiring less pressure.

We found that by using the included Bravo dual action pump we were able to get the paddleboard set up and ready to go in 6-8 minutes. Of course, this could be reduced if the board was self-inflating or you had an electric pump or compressor at hand.

Overall Performance

Once you are decked out in your finest attire, you want a board that not only looks the part but acts it also!

With the Newport G2 from Nixy, you won’t be disappointed. We pumped it up and set out to prove this board wasn’t purely a fashion piece over function. On the water, the paddleboard responded even better than it looks.

For a beginner rider, the board was beyond stable, we could probably take a table and chairs and set up a tea party on board. At 33” wide the board actually carried its speed and glide better than many of the boards we have tested.

We really believe this is down to the fusion core technology creating one of the stiffest boards we have ever had the opportunity to test.

The increased stiffness brings performance. It’s a good pick for an intermediate rider looking for something they can challenge themselves with. The Nixy Newport G2 was a perfect all-around SUP combination for waves or windy conditions. The fins providing enough grip to keep you in line yet super responsive and maneuverable right when you need it.

One thing we loved about the Newport was its predictability. We knew what was going to happen and could really push ourselves without fear of the unexpected.

The Newport G2 from Nixy was the board that just kept giving. We wanted to know if it was just a pretty face. There was some skepticism. We were left with an embarrassed smile on our face just how good this board was.

For a mid-priced paddleboard (it’s not a cheap paddleboard, but also not in the expensive price-range), sold as a package, it certainly responded and handled like any premium board with the same solid feel and quality build.

Accessories

Paddle

It is nice when a carton arrives ready to paddle, with nothing extra needed except your swimwear. The Nixy Newport G2 10’6 inflatable paddleboard is the complete setup.

It’s not the greatest paddle in the world, but it will get you going straight away. The paddle is built on a standard aluminum three-piece shaft, which folds down neatly into your bag. The aluminum is lightweight (however compared to fiberglass or carbon fiber, it’s not) and finished with a nice black texture to give it the feel of a more expensive piece.

The paddle blade is tough nylon designed to bounce off everything. This is perfect for the beginner who will no doubt be punting along at times. The paddle is durable enough for the occasional paddler. Even when you upgrade it, it can continue to serve as the ideal backup or spare for friends.

Leash

Nixy truly understands that safety is no compromise. That’s why included with each board is a really swell board leash. Equipped as a hybrid, a mix between a straight and coiled leash designed especially for stand up paddleboards.

The high-quality polyurethane cord combined with dual stainless steel double-swivels has the look and feel of any premium leash on the market. It is comfortable to wear and tucks out of the way so not to drag or catch in the water.

Pump

Included in your bag is the super Bravo 4D dual action pump. We have seen this pump used on many other higher priced packages. It’s a really nice addition and really helps to set this package apart from the others.

The dual action simply means that it pushes air through on both the upward and downward strokes. Allowing you to get a good amount of volume in the board.

Then when the going gets tough, simply switch back to single action to make things easier. The built-in gauge is really accurate so you can be assured of the right pressure each and every time.

Bag

Thinking of traveling the globe or even just to the waterfront? You will be delighted to know that the team at Nixy really want to give you the most portable and functional bag yet.

The first thing you will notice is the three large wheels on the underside. These make those long treks much easier, taking the weight from your back and being able to tow it along behind you. Where other bags use two wheels, Nixy has used three to really spread the load and allow it to cope with almost any terrain.

As you open up the bag, the double zips make things super easy. You will see that the space inside is absolutely huge. Big enough to easily roll your new inflatable paddleboard into. Now time to close it up and check out the large outer pocket. Designed to take your pump and accessories with ease. The small ID tag is ideal if you want to travel. On the outside of the bag, you will find a special space to securely store your paddle.

On the bag, you will find 4 large handles designed to help carry and maneuver the bag in and out of planes, trains, and automobiles. While the two large padded backpack straps will allow you to trek down to a remote river with ease.

Overall this is one of our favorite bags from any brand currently on the market in this price range. It’s packed full of features a real premium piece of equipment.

Repair Kit

We all know the durability of inflatable standup paddleboards. Being able to be driven over by a truck, flattened by rhinos and bounced off beaches. But we also know misfortune can happen at the worst possible moment. That’s why Nixy Sport have included a simple repair kit with the Newport G2. Fitting nicely into the outer pocket of the bag, the orange plastic pod contains some PVC patches, glue, and a valve wrench. We recommend adding a couple of alcohol cleaning wipes but otherwise its ready to repair at a moments notice and get you back on the water as soon as possible.

Pros
- We are a huge fan of color, and the Nixy Newport G2 has plenty of classy colorways to choose from
- The option of adding a kayak seat
- Simple uncluttered deck
- The travel bag is really high quality and the perfect companion
- Complete package ready to paddle
- Bravo pump is very efficient and easy to use
- Super stiff and rigid board due to its fusion technology
Cons
- The paddle is low quality (easy upgrade!)
- Only one handle, personally we would have liked to see another to aid launching/towing/etc.
Conclusion

The Newport G2 inflatable standup paddleboard from Nixy has become a point of debation. As a mid-priced board, the package is of great value. Looking past the cheaper paddle, everything else included is superb value for a board in this price range. But we certainly feel that due to its modest price point it is not always taken seriously as other premium boards.

So between us and you, we will let you into a little secret. If you want a board that will outperform every other board in its category and still able to take on the big boys, the Nixy Newport G2 iSUP is just for you.

The team at Nixy are happy to offer a 2-year warranty on their boards proving just how much they trust their materials and manufacturing process. A board that just oozes confidence.

It is like a secret weapon ready to be unleashed to the world and certainly one of the best boards we’ve tested in this price range.

From the premium build quality to the host of accessories the Newport G2 SUP really has it all. But let’s keep this between us, so they keep it at its incredible, unbelievable price point!
May 30, 2018
Thurso Surf 132 Waterwalker 11′ Review
We have stepped aboard, slid along, and fallen off hundreds of different standup paddleboards. The question really is, why is the Thurso Surf 11’ Waterwalker inflatable SUP such a class act? Is there really a better-looking board currently on the market? Of course, we know looks aren’t everything, but it is certainly a pretty good start for any piece.

The company Thurso Surf, founded in 2016, are fully committed to its customers, providing a 2-year guarantee with a full refund or replacement available. The 11′ WaterWalker is the larger brother of the other popular 10’6” edition, the Thurso Surf 126 WaterWalker. It also offers all of the great features found on the bigger version.

If you want to learn more about this ThursoSurf board, read on and find out why the Thurso Surf 11′ Waterwalker inflatable standup paddleboard will have you performing miracles of your own.

Specifications

Length 11’

Width 32”

Thickness 6”

Weight 26 lbs

Weight Capacity 330 lbs

Review

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Materials

Built with the user in mind. The Waterwalker internal Nylon drop stitch core gives the board both its rigidity and firmness. Incorporating the same ultra-durable double-layer construction as the rest of Thurso Surf line up. The double PVC outer layer is both durable and strong. Finished with a UV resistant laminate and absolutely stunning wood effect graphing the Thurso Surf WaterWalker is really one of the best looking boards on the market.

The 2-year guarantee goes above and beyond many competitors proving just how much the team at Thuro Surf trust all of their components and manufacturing techniques

Deck Pad

Thurso Surf has really gone above and beyond or should we say deep and groovy. This 2 part deep channeled traction pad offers a good amount of grip and enough ‘squidge’ to be ultra-comfortable. This is extra important for beginner SUPers.

The colors are really well matched to complement the wood grain effect of the Thurso Surf 11′ Waterwalker board. It is not the biggest deck pad we have seen on a board, but it is ideal for the all-around design.

D-rings + Bungee

D Rings only mean one thing… Accessories! And that’s why we love to see D Rings, what possible accessories can we add to make this board even more fun? Starting upfront, the four-deck rings are already equipped with the strong bungee for securing shoes, flip-flops, or your drybag, whilst out on the water.

In the center of the board, you will find another 4 D Rings these are perfectly positioned to add a carrying strap or kayak seat/backrest. On the tail of the board, you will spot the heavily reinforced D-Ring for securing your leash.

All of the D-Rings are integrated into the board and are extremely strong.

Fins

Fins have been subject to many serious questions, with many boards opting for a couple of smaller fixed rubber fins and a center removable fin. Whereas the Thurso Surf Waterwalker has incorporated all three removable fins.

The ingenious design means fins can be removed for storage or loading on a rooftop, and then simply clicked into place when you want to hit the water. This gives you the option of a single fin set up or going all out with the tri-fin configuration to really suit your own riding preference.

The toolless fitting means it can be done on the fly and changed as you require. We found the quick-lock system to be solid with no additional movement in the fin boxes giving a good stable performance.

Inflate/Deflate

Thurso Surf recommends an optimal pressure of 12-15 PSI in practice using the dual-action pump included takes about 6 minutes to pump up the board to this pressure. At 15 PSI we found the board to feel very rigid and secure. From experience, we would recommend using 12-13 PSI on hotter days. This allows for air expansion inside the board. Then on cooler days use a maximum 15 PSI.

Another trade secret that we can definitely recommend. If you are using multiple boards or heading out with friends it is certainly worth investing in an electric pump as it’s a much easier way to start the day.

Overall Performance

Having tried and tested hundreds of different (inflatable) standup paddleboards we can still pick out our favorites.

The Thurso Surf Waterwalker is one of the best and most fun boards we have managed to get our hands-on. It paddles similarly to many of the other all-around boards but holds its own characteristics which make it a little bit special. At 32” wide the board is stable enough to host a picnic yet nimble enough to dance around the water with the ease found on many shorter river specific boards.

This all-around board is great if you want to travel a bit. It might not be the fastest through the water, but the lifted shaped bow allows it to cut through the water with ease and grace found on many longer touring or expedition boards.

As all-around SUP boards go they have always been difficult to differentiate. That was until the Waterwalker hit the market.

The Tri fin setup has given plenty of food for thought, allowing us to test and try many different fin configurations so you can really take it anywhere in any condition. The option for a single large fin for straight-line tracking or add all three for ultimate grip in windy conditions.

We love the feeling and feedback that the board allows. This is due to the super stiff core transferring the feel of the water right to your feet.

With no excess flex of softness, the board can be quickly mistaken for a solid board. At 6” in-depth, the board is perfect for even the largest of riders offering maximum and buoyancy. For cruising around your favorite lake or river the Thurso Surf Waterwalker will give you endless hours of fun.

Accessories

Paddle

Equipped with a carbon fiber shafted 3 piece paddle the team at Thurso Surf knows what it is like to have a little luxury in life.

The carbon shaft is lightweight (an amazing difference with an aluminum paddle!) and offers a better touch than many other standard aluminum paddles.

The 3 piece design is very adjustable and packs neatly into the storage bag for transport.

Leash

Again the people have asked and the team has listened, a design change from the earlier model, which included a straight leash. Thurso Surf has switched this since 2018 over to a coiled leash the compact design with no trailing leash in the water is a smarter option for many users. The new coiled leash is essential for both security and safety. It cleverly features a handy pocket as part of the leg cuff. Perfect for storing keys or loose change so whenever you want to stop for ice cream or drink you will be covered.

Pump

The dual action air pump found standard now on so many models, is one of the most underrated accessories. The difference between a good pump and a bad can be precious extra minutes of pumping and exertion before you even set foot on the water.

Luckily Thurso Surf has got it right. The dual action pump is easy to use, with a simple switch to change between high volume to get initial air into the board, and then switch it over to high pressure to make the effort easier. But still pushing plenty of air to top it up to your optimal pressure.

Bag

So the main reason you want to buy an inflatable stand up paddleboard is for its amazing portability. The option to roll up all your troubles and head off into the wild.

The Thurso Surf bag is built to take the rigors of your transportation options. Whether on the top of a bus in India, a bullet train in Japan, or on a snow sled in the Arctic. Your SUP needs to be as portable as you are.

That’s why the heavy-duty zip means your bag can open fully for easy packing of all of your accessories. The four large handles make loading and handling the bag easy and the large shoulder straps and waist belt make the bag easy to carry wherever you are headed.

Repair Kit

A standard repair kit is included with the board package. It fits neatly into the bag so it is always on hand. The repair kit features a small brush to apply adhesive as well as a couple of patches and a valve wrench.

Be aware the glue is not actually included as it can’t always be shipped depending on location so be sure to buy some so you have it in case of an accident.

Handles

One of the big differences between other standup paddleboards and this popular 11-foot Thurso Surf Waterwalker is the inclusion of a front hand grab. This is something many people had asked for as it certainly aids handling and moving the board especially when launching and recovering from the water.

The center handle is also very special. The neoprene overcover opens up and is large enough to velcro your paddle into. This keeps it safe whether you are just carrying the board or heading for lunch even if you decide to take a swim. You needn’t worry about your paddle heading off in the wrong direction, leaving you really up the creek.

Lunch Bag

Yes, you read the title correctly, we said lunch bag. The team at Thurso Surf has included a really nice insulated cooler bag that can be attached to your board by clips or suction cups. So you can head out with your lunch, drinks, or anything else you fancy taking with you on your grand adventure.

Pros
- Beautiful wood grain effect deck design
- Traction pad is deep and grippy
- Coiled board leash is strong and comfortable
- Cooler bag is a really nice addition
- Center hand cover doubling up as a paddle holder is an ingenious addition
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Traction pad does not include a kick pad
- The bag is really nicely designed and lighter weight but less padded than other brands
Conclusion

So you’ve read all the details and looked at all of the images. What else can we mention to tell you this is one of the best looking and well-equipped boards currently available on the market.

The team at Thurso Surf trust it that much to offer a no qualms 24-month warranty on manufacturing defects?

The beautifully wood influenced top deck design is eye-catching and brightly printed onto the tough and durable double layered PVC fabric.

These guys have brought a high-quality product that is both unbelievable stable whilst offering unprecedented comfort and control. With a superb tri-fin set up totally customizable for any day on the water

This superb package is equipped with a really nice carbon shaft break-down paddle and a large easy to use travel bag.

This package really is perfect for the beginner rider to get going but still holds enough performance and extra accessories that the intermediate rider will feel right at home for years to come.

Last but not least we do have the deal-breaker! Remember the insulated cooler bag we earlier mentioned. Well, it is included as part of the package with every board! It’s the perfect way to take your lunch and cool drinks out on the water with you. Well there you go, that’s the deal sealed.

Get out, pump up, and enjoy!
May 18, 2018
Starboard Atlas Zen 12′ Review
When you first see the Starboard Atlas Zen, you will notice it’s quite a bit longer than the typical all-around inflatable standup paddleboard. With 12 feet long and 33 inches wide, the Atlas Zen SUP is super stable and therefore perfect for beginners to intermediate riders that want to cruise or use it as a fishing SUP or yoga SUP! To find out more, keep on reading!

If you’ve ever been into a surf shop or even done a quick google search, you will have heard of Starboard. For those who have had their heads in the sand for the past 24 years, then here is your chance for redemption!

The Starboard company was founded by one of the best board sailers of his era, Mr. Svein Rasmussen, and with the idea to bring to market stronger lighter boards for every niche.

Starboard was quickly seen as the innovators first of Windsurf boards before moving into the Stand Up Paddleboard market. Always trying to build the best paddleboard, with the best shapes and strongest materials.

As a brand Starboard lives for quality, a true understanding of people’s needs and at the same time giving back to the environment all that they can, to prolong its future, for generations to come.

Specifications

Length 12’

Width 33”

Thickness 6”

Weight 25.5 lbs

Weight Capacity 265 lbs

Review

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Materials

Why do you want to buy an inflatable stand up paddleboard? The ease of storage, the option to take it with you anywhere?

With many inflatable paddleboards, you will find a compromise in the rigidity. No one wants to buy a floppy oversized dinghy.

Starboard have broken down barriers and brought to the market some of the closest boards to a true hardboard; yet still compact and portable. The ingenious use of many new modern materials brings quality in line with performance.

The use of a high-density drop stitch core has become standard throughout many top end SUP boards. By utilizing a 2000D twin compression stringer both on top and underneath extra stiffness and better controls has been given to the Starboard Atlas Zen paddleboard.

The PVC decking is high quality and very durable and when combined with the hard standing plates under the deck pad gives the user a feel for no other.

If you want a paddleboard that feels and performs like a hardboard but with the extra usability and versatility of an inflatable SUP, then the Zen construction is perfect for you.

If you are willing to trade a little durability for performance then the lighter even stiffer double construction is another great option.

Deck Pad

A nice feature about the Starboard Atlas SUP is the size of the deck pad, designed to cover as much of the board as possible to really compliment your riding style. The soft crocodile skin surface is comfortable and offers plenty of grip no matter if you’re booted or barefoot.

At the rear you will find a tail kick pad, this is something we haven’t seen much of on many all-around inflatables. It just allows for better footing and positioning when making pivot turns, this enhanced control is a really nice feature.

The deck pad colors are perfectly matched to the PVC deck giving a good contrast that looks both classy and professional.

D-rings + Bungee

Starboard know exactly what you need when it comes to D-rings. They give you just enough without anything extra.

On the tail next to the large padded handle, you will spot the first of six D-rings. This guy here is super important for securing your board leash so if you manage to take a tumble your board will always stay close at hand.

Upfront you will spot 4 D-rings in your cargo area. These are preloaded with enough bungee to hold down your essentials without overdoing it.

If you roll the board over you will spot number six up on the nose this is a nice touch and is ideal for towing in case you need a helping hand, it is also super handy for tying the SUP board down in windy conditions.

Fins

Having tried and tested hundreds of different paddleboards, Starboard has a pretty good idea of the ideal fin set up for each of their boards.

The performance and durability really dictate their manufacturing decisions. For 2018 Starboard have released all of their Zen series of boards with a super durable tri fin set up of fixed plastic fins. These are designed to bounce, bend, fold, shuffle and pretty much everything but snap.

The huge advantage of this setup is that it requires no tools and no option to lose or misplace fins, the tough rubber compound is perfect for riders who like to crash, especially into beaches or rocks.

The 3 fins are small enough not to get hung up in the shallows yet offer enough grip to help you track and carve with ease.

Inflate/Deflate

Inflating and deflating a paddleboard can really be a make or break. If it takes you an hour to get setup we can guarantee that you just won’t bother.

That’s why Starboard recommends a pressure of just 14 – 18 PSI, much lower than other paddleboard brands on the market. But with the enhanced building process the SUP board will actually feel just as stiff as other boards.

To inflate the Starboard Atlas SUP can take anywhere from 5-8 minutes and can be drastically reduced through the use of a compressor or car pump. If you have kids then pumping a board can be a great game and very rewarding.

To deflate a board is definitely the easiest of tasks. Once you’ve finished your paddle simply undo the valve cover, then push the center of the valve. You will hear a loud pop as the first of the pressure is expelled (this is normal). Then give the pin a slight twist and you can set about rolling up your board.

Overall Performance

We are not biased but we do believe we have just opened your gateway to another realm with this stroke of genius from Starboard.

At 12’ the Starboard Atlas Zen SUP has enough length to cruise around merrily taking in the sights even being used for yoga or fishing. The wider deck and solid deck pads offer a firmness and rigidity not usually found on ordinary stand up paddleboards. The stability is somewhat comparable to the iRocker Cruiser SUP.

Don’t be mistaken, the Starboard Atlas Zen is no ordinary stand up paddleboard.

Loaded with features and one of the best designers. They really wanted to create a true cruising board not based on performance or speed but of enjoyment and use by all the family.

Boasting a huge 120 kg payload the Starboard Atlas SUP is suitable for a huge range of riders. For the beginner, the Starboard Atlas offers plenty of stability to rely upon yet still tracking straight and true.

The Atlas would make a nice intermediate board. The tapered kick pad offers enough movement and control to push and drive the board exactly where you would like to go. You’ll also find the super stiff design will give you enough feedback that you won’t even know you’re on an inflatable SUP!

Accessories

Leash

Ready to rock and roll! The Starboard Atlas comes preloaded with a sleek lightweight board leash. A comfortable neoprene cuff fits snugly around the ankle. Attaching securely to the rear D-ring of the board the leash sits neatly behind you out of sight.

The leash is only lightweight so don’t expect to use it in the surf or on moving water but for touring and cruising it is absolutely perfect.

Pump

Pump and play technology. Is the reason you bought a new inflatable is because of its portability and ability to actually take it anywhere? Surely it’s not to spend a day pumping and inflating just to deflate it again and take it home.

That’s why the guys and girls at Starboard have included a really good double action pump. The idea of a dual action pump is to inflate on both the downwards and upwards strokes cutting down the time needed to inflate.

This is fairly common throughout the industry but as always we expect a little more from these premium brands and for that Starboard have not failed to deliver.

The pump offers a high-density hose perfect for delivering all of that air into your board. Also, a really accurate pressure gauge with colorful Tiki to show you the way. The gauge has been premarket with optimal pressures for your new Starboard.

Bag

Nothing better than a half decent bag to transport you SUP in! With the Starboard Atlas Zen, you’re blessed with a choice of backstraps or it can be wheeled effortlessly over multiple terrains.

Inside you’ll find heaps of room and straps to secure all your gear. As well as securing inside, the straps on the outside are great to really compact everything all into one neat, easy to move package.

The zippers pull all the way down which makes getting the board in and out way easier than those they only come halfway. As a bonus, those same zippers are also non-corrosive!

Repair Kit

So you buy a new mobile phone, you make sure you buy a protective case and screen protector. But then you always drop it right at the wrong moment. Why don’t you ever drop it on the carpet? Why always on tiled floors?

We all know that no matter how careful you are with your new toy accidents do happen. Whether your own fault or an encounter with Jaws, Starboard want you back on your board as soon as possible.

That’s why tucked into the bag you will find a small repair kit. Equipped with patches and a valve wrench all you need to do is pick up some glue and you are ready to repair any punctures you may encounter.

Just to note we have been testing many boards in a variety of situations, Every time we open a new board we check out the repair kit but as of yet <touch wood>, We have NEVER actually needed to use it. Inflatable stand up paddleboards are built to last they are actually super durable.

Pros
- Super durable construction
- Really rigid form even with bigger riders
- Well thought out wheely bag system
- Amazing stability and glide
- Included leash matches the color scheme and is really comfortable
- Fast to pump and inflate
- Could be easily mistaken for a hardboard
Cons
- Only available in one color scheme
- Removable pump footplate is a nice idea for storage but really just another piece to lose
- Would of like to have seen added shoulder straps to the bag
- No paddle included in the package
Conclusion

The inflatable stand up paddleboard market has been inundated with all-around boards, each following a similar pattern:
- Stable – Check
- Maneuverable – Check
- Durable – Check
They all follow these guidelines to the letter, so what is different about the Starboard Atlas Zen?

Well, it really depends on your final destination? For many people happy to plod around the traditional all-around standup paddleboard. Something like the Whopper from Starboard is an ideal candidate.

But what if you told us your final goal was to cruise around in peace and tranquility. Up until now, you would have bought a starter board to find your sea legs, learning the skills before trading up and buying a more specific touring board.

Starboard have made it their business to create boards for each individual niche. Listening to their customer and supplying exactly what they want (though usually improved).

The Starboard Atlas Zen 12′ is no exception. Sitting under the all-around umbrella, ticking all of our boxes but with the extra length to further your days on the water and cruise around covering more ground.

Stability was our number one point and the Starboard Atlas SUP at a solid 33” allows you the confidence without compromise.

So if you want a SUP board you can step aboard right away and that you won’t outgrow its needs, think Starboard Atlas. With its quality workmanship and design, it sure is a board you need to take a closer look at.

See you on the water!
May 17, 2018
Aquaglide Cascade 11’ Review
Aquaglide is not new in the inflatables business with over 30 years experience building a whole product range from inflatable standup paddleboards, climbing walls and trampolines to airboats. They understand exactly what’s needed to build with quality and precision. For this article, we have tested the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ inflatable paddleboard, the big brother of the Cascade 10’ that we’ve tested previously.

Do you want to know how the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ paddles? What value do you get in the accessories? Well lucky for you we have all those answers in this comprehensive review. Read on to find out what we think about the Cascade 11’ SUP.

Specifications

Length 11’

Width 32”

Thickness 6”

Weight 27 lbs

Weight Capacity 230 lbs

Review

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Materials

The Cascade 11′ paddleboard has been built by Aquaglide, a company with many years of experience in building high-quality inflatables for a number of uses.

Aquaglide has taken the standard drop stitch core and increased the thread count to create a higher density than some of its competitors. This has then been added to a double PVC outer layer to keep the board super stiff and rigid.

The inclusion of Aquaglides own powerstrip helps the SUP board to hold its shape and add durability to the hull of the board. A double rail system makes the board incredibly durable for a range of users. We have seen a few different deck designs over the last couple of years but this latest one is really nice with both the hull and deck pad following the same design.

Deck Pad

Aquaglide has used a really comfortable EVA deck pad, if we are honest it isn’t the largest deck pad we have seen, but it is more than sufficient. On some of the larger boards, we noticed they add a tail kick pad also but on the Cascade 11′ it’s kept very simple.

The diamond pattern offers plenty of grip and is comfortable for all day use whether sitting or standing. We really liked the color combination of blues and greys in a classy yet stylish design.

D-rings + Bungee

The Aquaglide Cascade features a whopping 10 D-ring configuration, more than enough for adding any accessory you choose, whether you add a simple kayak seat or the kitchen sink you have plenty of attachments.

Up front, just in front of the EVA deck pad, the 4 D-rings form a well-placed cargo area. By utilizing a strong bungee, the board gives you some space to stow your essentials.

On many other boards, the deck pad actually overlaps the cargo area to stop bottles sliding and providing some grip. Unfortunately, this is not the case on the Cascade SUP so just beware when positioning thing so they don’t become dislodged, if in doubt clip it on!

On the nose of the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ paddleboard, they have added a single D-Ring, this can be used for tying the board down or securing the board when you head off for a picnic. Over the midsection you can see another 4 D-rings, these are ideally positioned for adding (optional) kayak universal backrest or shoulder carrying strap. On the tail of the board is the last of the 10, this is for securing a board leash, it’s right on the tail and out of the way so you should not stumble on the leash.

Fins

The Cascade 11’ all-around inflatable paddleboard came to us full of hope and anticipation not knowing what to expect but knowing it would be exciting.

Aquaglide has chosen to use a single fin set up on the Cascade paddleboard, which for us was a little disappointing. On a longer cruiser the single Fin is certainly the best set up but for an all-around, we wanted something with a little more spice. We wanted the ability to drop a rail and feel it grip which just isn’t so profound with a single fin set up.

Luckily hope was not lost as we looked a little closer we were pleased to see that Aquaglide had chosen a US fin box configuration, a common set up for paddleboards which with it means a variety of fins are easy to source meaning that you can switch between a longer fin for cruising or a shorter fin for better maneuverability.

The included fin measures in at a sturdy 8” long enough to track well, for us we would certainly purchase a second shorter fin to interchange between depending on the condition.

It is also worth noting that whilst so many boards now offer a toolless fin system, the US fin box actually requires the use of a small Phillips head screwdriver, so it is worth adding one to your kit bag so you don’t forget.

Inflate/Deflate

Aquaglide certainly understands how to make inflatables! Naturally, inflatable paddleboards were the natural progression. Utilizing the same technology’s to create rigid, durable elements.

Because of the board materials and technologies, the Cascade 11’ board is capable of over 20 PSI but Aquaglide recommends a working pressure of 15-18 PSI even at just 15 PSI the board felt super solid.

Deflating the board was a piece of cake, opening the valve cover before peering down on the valve to let the air escape. The only thought we had on the deflation was that you need to be a little careful if you are leaving the fin in place.

With the standard 8” fin it did fit into the bag but was a bit of a squeeze so we would probably recommend removing the fin before deflating and packing away.

Overall Performance

Once pumped up we set out on the lake testing the board for tracking and maneuverability. We used the standard fin provided with the board, at 11 feet long the Aquaglide Cascade SUP was more than large enough for a variety of riders even at lower pressures it felt solid for lighter riders with heavier persons requiring that bit extra pressure.

As we paddled off, the board tracked really well. It held its line well and even started to glide well. As for turning and maneuverability, the board did feel a little sluggish, tending to arc into turns instead of turning on a dime. As it turned we did notice a bit of a wobble too, again this is just down to the single fin set up. With a shorter fin, the board would turn more efficiently.

We enjoyed paddling the Aquaglide Cascade paddleboard even on small waves. The board held its shape and didn’t show any signs of excess flex. We would certainly recommend it as a beginners board even perfect for families big enough the share between an adult and child.

The board was definitely a better cruiser SUP than an all-around paddleboard but was super fun all the same.

Accessories

Paddle

Unfortunately, a SUP paddle and leash are not included with the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ paddleboard package so please remember to order one at the time of purchase or you will truly be up to the creek without a paddle. Don’t make the same beginners mistake as some others, by showing up at the water without a SUP paddle 🙂

Pump

Aquaglide after a few years of using a basic pump, have finally given in and loaded the Cascade SUP package with the much loved Bravo dual action high-pressure pump.

Featuring two modes with the simple flick of a switch, from high volume to high pressure to get your board up to the recommended pressure with ease.

At 11 feet long it is a big SUP board and will take longer to pump than shorter boards, this is simply due to its extra volume. Nothing to do about that, unless you choose to buy an electric SUP pump.

Bag

We have found that the backpack is an absolute essential, not only keeping your board and accessories together but to both protect it and keep the shell tidy. Luckily for you, Aquaglide has included a super rugged, commercial-grade polyester bag, the type you would expect to see hauling across mountains and deserts by sherpas. The two adjustable backpack straps and the tailored waist belt are comfortable and well padded, they can also be hidden inside a large, zippered pocket when not in use.

We found the oversize bag to be strong and very durable, easily accommodating the inflatable stand up paddleboard, its SUP paddle and pump with ease. The extra outer bungee made it easy to throw small accessories on the outside of the bag for storage.

Repair Kit

Aquaglide is no stranger to inflatables and understands that accidents can happen even with the most durable of products. That’s why they include a simple repair kit to get you back on the water as soon as possible. A couple of patches and a valve wrench can be found in the orange pod. This should be kept in your bag to be sure it is always to hand when you need it.

We recommend popping into a local hardware store and buying a tube of glue as it’s not included in the repair kit due to shipping laws.

Pros
- Good looking colorful design
- Soft grippy deck pad
- Included Bravo pump is easy to use
- The bag is super rugged design
- Board holds its shape and felt very stiff
- US fin box is a nice addition to easily interchange a variety of fins
Cons
- Only a single fin set up
- US fin box requires a Phillips head screwdriver so be sure to pack one
- No paddle or leash is included in the package
- Deck pad smaller than similar models
Conclusion

As you sail away into blue seas and warm skies you want the confidence to be sure-footed and capable underfoot. This is where the Aquaglide Cascade 11’ inflatable standup paddleboard can be the perfect companion, built on solid foundations the super durable board can really be trusted in a range of conditions.

The high-density core and extra power band make sure your paddleboard holds firm even with the heaviest riders.

For the beginner SUP rider, looking for an all-around paddleboard that better suits cruising and exploring, the Cascade would be a perfect addition offering good stability even capable of practicing some SUP yoga.

For an intermediate rider, we would certainly recommend you take a look at the iRocker Cruiser or Thurso Surf Waterwalker as the tri-fin configuration gives you much more versatility no matter where you want to ride.

We love the easy paddling, comfortable option that the Cascade offers, with the option of sharing the experience with a child or dog. The Aquaglide Cascade paddleboard is durable and inspires plenty of confidence to any beginner SUP rider hoping to hit the water this summer.
May 17, 2018
Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6″ MSL Review
If you don’t know who Red Paddle boards are then you should probably check a dictionary under “Inflatable Stand up Paddleboards”. Red is Paddleboards! Through and through. And their Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6 MSL is one of the best selling inflatable standup paddleboards on the market today!

Do you want a SUP that suits all conditions? Easy for beginners but at the same time is a high performance for experts? Do you like extra goodies like RAM mounts and waterproof phones cases?

Let’s riiiiiide!

Tossing up whether the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6” MSL is for you?

We’ve taken the time to include all you want to know below.

We’ve assessed the materials, durability, performance and extra features. We’ve even got you a list of pros and cons for quick skimming.

If you already know about the board but just need that gentle push to sway you into purchasing one, let us leave you with this.

You can’t beat Red Paddle Co manufacturing! You may pay a higher price than other iSUP’s that are seemingly the same board but that’s only because you can’t see what lies underneath!

Another note is that these guys know what they’re doing – they have been at it since 2008 and their customer service will make you feel like you’re a guest at the Hilton. That means for over 10 years now these guys have shown progression in the emerging sport fighting prejudice against inflatables and yet still delivering some of the best products on the market.

If you want the best all-around experience the Red Paddle Ride could definitely be the board for you, keep reading to check out all of its great features.

NOTE: We are covering the Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6” MSL 2018 model.

Specifications

Length 10’6”

Thickness 4.7″

Width 32”

Weight 21 lbs

Capacity 100 kg / 220 lbs

What You’ll Get When You Purchase The Red Paddle Co Ride MSL 10’6″
- The Inflatable SUP Itself
- Ergonomic and Wheeled (!) Back Pack
- Titan High-Performance Hand Pump
- Repair Kit
- Cell Phone Case
Review

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Materials

You wouldn’t expect anything less than amazing at Red Paddle Co when it comes to materials of their inflatable standup paddleboards. Well known in the SUP industry for their leading innovation when it comes to board technology, this 2018 model of the Ride MSL is a perfect example of their craftsmanship.

It’s Tough and Light!

Over the past 10 years, Red paddleboards have been revolutionizing the inflatable paddle board industry, creating new techniques and processes to build the strongest, stiffest boards available.

To be able to manage this process more effectively Red paddle boards actually work out of their own factory. Not shared with any others. This way they can manage all of the quality and control of every product in-house.

This has meant that they can test and try a number of different ways to get the boards as strong as possible. The latest boards are using the process of a dual layer board, but with the new MSL technique. Whereby Red actually bond the components at the raw material stage, meaning it can be done with better quality and precision than other single layer or standard dual layer boards.

You’ll find the same drop stitching core with an outer layer of PVC that you see across nearly all inflatable SUP’s, however, there is a slight difference with the 2018 Ride.

Though introduced earlier than the Ride 2018, here on out if you weren’t already aware Red Paddle Co only constructs board using their own invention; Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology.

Say what?

Instead of the labor-intensive hand gluing of the PVC layering, Red Paddle Co came up with a new system of machine fusing the extra layering.

The MSL process also boasts an impressive 2kg weight reduction to other dual layer boards which is a huge bonus. The Tec Air technologies they have been trying and testing have been used for a while now. Red is able to build boards that run on an upgraded drop stitched core but adding the 2 layers of PVC and an extra rail protection system. This 3 layer rail almost completely removes the risk of puncture or material failure on what is commonly the weakest area of the board.

What you get left with is actually a work of art. If you line up a fully inflated Red paddleboard on a display alongside hardboards many would struggle to differentiate. Red paddle boards wanted to build the best boards they could, and that’s exactly what they have done.

They’ve also gone as far as making a video of a 22-tonne digger driving over the board to prove their SUP’s are as hardcore as they say. You can watch it here.

The Red Paddle 10’6 Ride is definitely one of the best-built boards on the market utilizing these innovative techniques to build a lighter stronger, stiffer board for your enjoyment.

Deck Pad

2017 models saw the introduction of a diamond grooved tail end of the deck pad and we are overjoyed to see it continue into the 2018 model.

We love how it makes you feel like one with the board, you only have to slide your foot around to feel the change from the crocodile skin cut to the diamond grooves to find the exact spot you want to anchor down.

Though the deck pad doesn’t reach to the nose of the board, the tie down storage area means you wouldn’t use that area to sit, kneel or place another person/animal anyway.

A full-size deck pad covering over two-thirds of the board proves that the Ride means serious business, why give you all of this deck padding if they don’t expect you to use it?

The pad is textured and soft to allow for plenty of all-day comforts yet providing enough grip even when heading off to steeper waves and more turbulent waters.

The deck pad for 2018 has been applied at over 170 PSI pressure to the board this means that it will be perfect with no bumps or wrinkles in the layers. Everything about this board just screams quality.

Want to know something cool?

The 2018 deck pad design is modern yet still classy, it’s a nice touch and not too much. For 2018 Red paddle board are celebrating their 10th birthday and for this reason, have also released a beautiful purple colorway as a special edition piece.

In the future, we would love to see more color options. But when you are getting this kind of quality color is not important!

D-rings + Bungee

D-rings for all occasions!

The improvement for 2018 can be found with an extra set of D-rings on the deck complete with tie downs, improving the overall storage space. The 10’6 Ride has been built with the rider in mind combining 8 well place D-rings to really serve your every need. Starting up front with as we like to call it the James Bond D-ring. This D-ring is actually a tether for attaching your prized accessory whether it be a portable action camera, mobile phone, even a Bluetooth speaker or fishing rod.

The sneaky brass insert next to the D-ring is designed to take a whole host of accessories from brands such as Ram mount or Railblaza. This ingenious idea certainly opens up your board to some personalization to give you a greater user experience.

If you move back slightly, you will spot the 6 D-rings preloaded with a strong bungee cord. This is your cargo area, whether it be gold or rum from the Caribbean or simply flip-flops and sun lotion the area is set up front to better balance your board.

If you turn to the tail of your board, you will spot the large launching handle, to make moving the board in the water super easy. Then right on the side of this is the last D-ring. This one’s actually pretty important. This is where you will secure your paddle leash, this stops the board running away when you decide you want to cool off in the cool waters.

Fins

Some like big fins some like small fins, retractable, changeable, moveable, upside down. Whatever your feeling on fins someone will always think differently.

The team at Red paddle board over the past 10 years have tested thousands of different fin combinations.

Trying to come up with the best solution, What they have decided is that there is actually no one best solution. That’s why each of the boards in their line up may have a different fin option depending on its intended use.

For the all-around Red Paddle Ride MSL board, the emphasis had to be on durability and reliability. The majority of people who want this board wants something quick and easy, suitable for all conditions. That’s why the team at Red paddle boards opted for a 3 fin set up.

The introduction of their own iFin system saw Red Paddle Co making headlines. They’ve invented a few different types but we’ll only go into what you see on the 2018 Ride. Built with a super durable plastic, rubber compound the I-fin system is designed to take the abuse you want to throw at it. Whether running up on rocks or getting caught in weeds. These fins are designed to flex and bounce with zero maintenance and no chance of losing or misplacing a fin or clip. They provide the perfect addition to this user-friendly package.

The molded fin.

3 small fins that are perfect for shallow waters and rough conditions like whitewater. The performance of 3 smaller fins provides also means the board cuts through waves like Kelly Slater.

The particularly fascinating part about the molded fin is that if you happen to damage the fin, you can pour hot water over them and reshape by hand. You can find a video instructing how here. This feature makes up for them not being removable in our eyes.

If you are beginner you may find the tracking a little trickier to start without the large center fin you’d normally find on touring boards. So don’t feel hopeless if you finding yourself switching from side to side – you will find the rhythm soon!

With enough length to keep you tracking true yet still enough spread to keep your board nimble and maneuverable gone are the days of forgotten or broken fins.

Portability

Another highlight of the 2018 model is small details on the handles and backpack.

Using the handles to carry the board that now have a printed material logo is like stroking velvet (the right way). It makes transporting more pleasant especially if you need to walk a little way!

Finding the most risk-free way to carry the board is easy with handles featured on the center and end of the board too.

The backpack we are covering in full further down.

Inflate/Deflate

The 10’6 Ride is designed with performance in mind boasting a PSI operating range of between 16-25 PSI. With many boards on the market only capable of 15 PSI, the Ride will still be super rigid even at these lower pressures.

The 2018 Ride is a simple push valve inflation/deflation along with what’s been rated time and time again (according to customer reviews) to be the best manual hand pump; The Titan High-Pressure Pump! (Which we cover more on further down)

This board is easily inflated either by the Titan pump included or by using a compressor and adaptor. To deflate simply press the valve, be aware of the loud noise, then twist the pin a quarter of a turn before carefully rolling it up for storage.

It’s a fail-safe system with a twist lock valve cover.

Overall Performance

Year after year the Red Paddle Co Ride has been leaving its owners in pure glee.

This 2018 model will be no different, aside from all it’s fun little extras it delivers the same stable, comfortable and enjoyable ride.

We really believe that this board is out of this world, its been built with enough extras to satisfy James bond but once launched, we welcome you to another dimension in space, with a little more water and oxygen than space travel. The Ride is the board to take you anywhere you want to go.

The Red Paddle Ride MSL board paddles like an old friend, inspiring confidence at every turn through its unprecedented stability and predictability. Knowing what’s going to happen before it actually does is something that gives this board a real edge. You can push the board to its limits and still not even scratch the surface of what it is capable of. This kind of performance will have intermediate and expert paddlers truly scratching their brains for even more exciting explorations.

As a beginner, the 10’6 ride is the perfect companion, really easy to paddle and fast to set up. The solid feel of the board and super stiff rails will lead you to believe you are paddling a solid board. The maneuverability and use of the small fins allow the board to be nimble yet paddle forward confidently.

When you do take a tumble into the briny unknown, right then you will remember exactly why you chose an inflatable board, for its incredible durability in any situation.

For an intermediate who wants something different in their quiver, The Ride offers so many options. It really is the one board for everything, whether river, sea or surf. The 10’6 Ride from Red paddle boards shows no fear. Super resilient and robust, this board will handle all you can throw at it.

Some users depending on their skill level will notice a slight improvement even in the performance because of the extra density and less weight from the new improved construction.

Perfecting the all-rounder iSUP is a mighty task that many companies try to take on, most do well but not many shine as bright as Red Paddle Co has done with the 2018 Ride MSL.

All-rounder means the board is suited to all conditions up to an intermediate level of SUPing.

Flatwater

As we mentioned earlier, beginners may struggle with tracking a little at first due to the lack of large center fin. Given that in most flatwater conditions; lakes, rivers etc you’ll be spending most of your time trying to track a straight and gain speed, you may find the performance in this area not feel up to standards – though we just advise keeping at it because the flexibility having the tri-fin brings is well worth it.

For the more experienced SUP-er, you’ll find it a dream paddling around as a cruiser. The 32” width provides a solid base under your feet, the deck pad providing ample amounts of cushioning, support and grip and while it isn’t the fastest cruising board, it may well be the easiest to use.

Whitewater / Chop

A big point for whitewater is the issue of stability and as we just explained, you’ll be standing as strong as Goliath. The small fins that avoid damage, easy to feel diamond grooved tail for a strong back foot stance is excellent features for whitewater too. Even though 4”7 thickness can result in flex, the composition of the board brings extra stiffness so that we’ve never experienced flex before which is vital for the stability in choppy conditions.

Surf

Choosing a line and being able to stick to it, being able to execute a bottom turn and having a board that moves with you are all vital aspects of taking a SUP into the surf.

While you won’t be riding your 2018 RIde in 6ft Hawaiian barrels (we at least don’t recommend it) we fancy it for a session of smaller wave shredding. Plenty of giving in the rails for turning abilities, extremely responsive on the tail for a step back turns and enough rocker to take the face of small waves.

Accessories

Paddle

Unfortunately, no paddle is included with the 2018 model but Red Paddle Co does have a fantastic selection of paddles available as a separate purchase. You can have a look here.

Leash

Again, no leash is included in the 2018 package. Any leash you already own will do or if you are looking to purchase one, we recommend finding a coiled leash. Coiled leashes have a less chance of snapping back in your face.

Pump

So you have just arrived at the beach and taking a moment before setting up your board. You look over and watch as your friends, dripping with sweat, pumping furiously for minutes on end. Unfortunately for them, they are tired before they even touch the water.

But instead of housing nuclear launch codes, our cargo is far more important. That is why they put in even more effort to build you the product you want as well as the product you need.

As you unroll your board still deciding on which ice cream topping you prefer, your friends turn to watch with open mouths when you reveal the beast that is the Titan!

Within just a few minutes of almost effortless exertion and your still contemplating chocolate or vanilla, you sit peacefully and watch on, whilst your friends are still inflating their boards.

Yes, really that is a true story!

The Titan pump is actually one of the best on the market. The dual chambered pump looks like something from a fire truck but delivers a mix of high volume and high pressure with easy to read switches. Allowing you to pump the board in under 5 minutes.

Red Paddle Co’s High-Pressure Titan Pump has been constantly innovated over the years to produce one of the highest quality manual pumps on the SUP market.

Included is a built-in pressure gauge to follow where your PSI is the pumping is as easy as slicing warm butter. Naturally, as pressure raises you will feel some resistance but nothing like compared to cheap knockoffs.

The Titan Pump stows neatly inside your bag with the rest of your accessories. A quick tip we learned was to roll the pump into the middle of the board when deflating to make it all fit in the bag that little bit easier.

Bag

Red paddle boards have been industry leaders for a long time, over 10 years they have heaved and hauled their boards around the planet.

Lugging your SUP has never been more comfortable!

On the Ride 2018 model, you can see improvements on the bag with extra padding and added support.

Aside from that, the usual “bag that has it all” is what you’ll get. The materials used have been chosen to handle sun, salt and water and no chances of ripping with double stitching at the seams.

They have learned a thing or two about storage and transport. That is why they have some wheely nice features included on their bags.

From the top side of the bag, it looks like oversized travel luggage. But with the same quality feel and components, you would expect from a Nato briefcase.

Ample amount of room so you can get the board in and out with no hassle and cinch straps to keep it all in one place, avoiding uncomfortable weight distributions if you’re backpacking.

The large 2-way zips make packing and loading a breeze with special inset and straps to hold a breakdown paddle and space for all of your accessories. The case has tidy padded shoulder straps which are easily hidden away when not in use. The large clear ID holder makes it easily identifiable when on a baggage carousel.

On the bottom is a set of wheels designed to roll and flow, now you can grab the top handle and the bag will follow on behind you effortlessly.

They’ve even been considerate of keeping the board comfortable by using foil as an inner lining so your board stays nice and cool.

Repair Kit

The simple repair kit is not just for the pros it is designed to give you all the most important pieces you need to get you back on the water and paddling as soon as possible.

We all know that disaster strikes when you least expect it.

A flat tire only happens when it’s raining, a broken heel just as you walk into a bar. It just never happens in the sun or in your own home.

Well because of Mr. Murphy and his law every board includes a couple of patches and a valve wrench neatly packed into an orange canister so no excuses not to always have it to hand. Be sure to pick up some glue as it’s not included due to shipping regulations.

You can find videos detailing how to repair your board on the Red Paddle Co website.

Anything Extra??

Yes!

You get some goodies. Ram Mount and Railblaza Mounting System on the nose so you can record the momentous amounts of fun you’ll be having. There’s also their tested waterproof phone case, which if you are going on long trips can be particularly helpful!! Tip: take some nice photos and send them to us!

Pros
- Undoubtedly high quality of materials
- Stable, comfortable
- Extra goodies, RAM mount, and waterproof phone case
- Definitely suits all conditions
- 5 Star customer service
Cons
- Bit pricey if you are looking for an entry level board
- No included paddle and leash
- Beginners can find tracking tricky, to begin with
Conclusion

You just simply can’t go past Red Paddle Co if you are looking to get the most out of your money. Performance, materials, durability – they really do tick the boxes.

The best part is that if you look back over the years, they constantly are updating their boards, we don’t know how they can improve this 2018 model really, aside from making it fly maybe?

This show of dedicated craftsmanship is a testimonial to their passion for providing the best iSUP to their customers. You may pay a slightly higher price than other brands like iRocker but you’ll never feel as though you’ve wasted a penny.

Red paddle boards have really pulled out all the stops when they updated the Ride for 2018, combining so many great features it’s an explosion of fun just waiting to happen.

For the beginner, the Ride series offers stability and security usually found on much wider boards, due to its stiffness it will hold its form with less ‘wobble’ than cheaper brands.

For the intermediate rider, the Ride will just keep giving. You can try different locations, moving water, rocks; anything you want to throw at it, it will handle with ease and confidence of a specialist board.

The ride is available in a couple of different sizes with the Ride 10’8 perfect for bigger riders whilst the Ride 9’8 is the perfect companion for smaller riders who want versatility and plenty of fun.

This really is one board that can go anywhere, it won’t be the fastest or the slickest but you will be smiling from ear to ear all day long.

If something was to happen and you weren’t a happy little SUPer in the water they have a 24-month warranty on their products and no need to be afraid of dealing with cranky underpaid customer service.

If you haven’t already noticed Ride paddle boards pride themselves on building the best boards, with the best technologies. That is why they go above and beyond. The live chat features on their website get you talking to an expert within seconds for all your needs. Super friendly and helpful team and the 2-year warranty really shows how much they trust their manufacturing and materials.

Right down to the smallest details Red paddle board has you covered!

Still not satisfied? You can browse through our many other reviews of SUPs and we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you are looking for soon!
May 15, 2018
Aquaglide Cascade 10’ inflatable SUP review
This week we’re taking a look at the Aquaglide Cascade 10’ paddleboard. This iSUP (Inflatable SUP) All-rounder may be your match made in heaven. If you are wanting to find out if it’s truly the one, read on below. If you’re looking for the big brother, the Aquaglide Cascade 11′ SUP click here.

Aquaglide is one of the older companies in the game; having over 30 years of experience in design and construction of SUP boards. They aren’t purely a SUP company, however! They also do kayaks, inflatable sailboats and commercial floating recreational fun parks.

The company has a firm message for its customers:

All pieces are intended for long-term and heavy-duty use; built tough to meet the heavy demands of camp, resort, and commercial use

Being the recent recipient of the 10 feet long Cascade standup paddleboard, let’s take a look at whether that rings true.

Specifications

Length 10’

Width 32”

Thickness 4”

Weight 26lbs

Volume 45 Gallons / 170 Liters

Capacity 250lbs

What You’ll Get When You Purchase The Aquaglide Cascade 10′ blow up paddleboard:
- The Inflatable Standup Paddleboard
- Travel Back Pack
- Single Action, High-Pressure Pump
- Repair Kit
Review

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Materials

Firstly, let’s talk materials. If you’ve been researching for a new iSUP there’s a good chance you’ve come across the term of “drop-stitching” before. You’re probably like “Oh cool, but what does that mean?”

The short explanation of drop stitching is as follows: A form of construction in where thousands of robust threads/ fibers are stitched top to bottom inside the inner layer. Using this as the inner layer for an iSUP means that the board can be inflated to high pressures and kept compact all the way through.

Around this inner layer are 2 more layers. The next layer is the common PVC layering, top and bottom and then the additional bottom layer “power strip” you’ll see printed on the board. Power in the form of improved rigidness and prevention of air leaks.

Drop stitching makes inflatables like the Aquaglide Cascade standup paddleboard as sturdy and rigid as most hardboards.

Eva Deck Pad

Paddling around on a SUP without a deck pad is likely to have the same result as running with soap bars on your feet. The deck pad adds an ample amount of traction and covers the most important area of the board at 60” L x 25” W.

This Eva deck pad works perfect and looks good very good as well!

Bungee Tie Downs and D Rings

6 D-rings are featured on the board. One for attaching your leg rope – don’t want to be losing your board now. Four of the D-rings include are complemented by a bungee cord tie downs. Any items you’d like to bring on your journey can be securely stored under the bungees.

** Pro Tip – Want to try some SUP yoga or fishing? The storage area on the nose is an imperative feature you’ll want so you can store your paddle — or it might float away! **

The last D-ring is on the nose for towing or anchoring. This feature is overlooked for its handiness. If you’re out for a full day of SUP-ing, when you pull up for lunch somewhere being able to anchor easily is appreciated. If your little ones want to come along for the ride but lack the speed to keep up, towing is a fantastic way to keep the whole family involved.

Fin

A 7” single fin is included when you purchase an Aquaglide Cascade. Single fins as opposed to tri-fins or thruster setups aid your paddling when you’re on flat water. The single fin acts as a rudder, keeping your board tracking straight. Exceptionally handy for beginners.

The fin is removable, which I like. Being able to remove the fin makes snuggling the SUP back into the carry bag an easier process.

Portability

Your Cascade will come with a bag it will call home at the end of every session. The bag has well-padded straps, providing decent support for back and shoulders whilst traveling. There is a good amount of room for your board and extras so you don’t have to spend time cramming everything it.

The actual board itself has a soft-cloth handle in the middle for carrying once inflated, which is a whole heap friendlier on your body!

Once packed the bag rolls up into a bundle of joy small enough to fit in your car trunk or be stored in a cupboard inconspicuously. The portability of not only the Cascade but all iSUPs makes them be the number 1 choice for travelers.

Inflate/Deflate

Inflate process is so simple my 3yr old niece could do it. If you haven’t used a spring loaded valve before, you may not agree. Not to fear, we are here! There are 2 parts to it, that’s it!

Part 1. When the spring is up, this allows air to be pumped in without it coming back out. When the spring is down, air can go in but also come back out.

Part 2. Make sure your spring is down when inflating and up when deflating!

Pump to between 14-18PSI, checking your PSI on the handy pressure gauge featured on the pump and you’re ready to go.

Voila!

Overall Performance

Single fin SUP’s when paddled in surf above 1 or 2 ft can be hindering, (lack of sharp turning ability for waves). So you don’t want to take your Cascade out in anything above that. Impressively, it handles small surf and chops relatively well.

There’s a 32” width (about average for All-round types) and pre-mentioned rigidness for stability in chop. While the slightly pulled back tail allows for easier back-foot turning in smaller waves.

Nowhere near as fast as racing SUPs, but, a slight point in the nose gives a streamline effect so momentum can be gained reasonably quickly.

Upon standing on the Cascade, you’ll feel the boards resilience from its core out. You’ll have no need to worry about dings or scratches. Not having longevity issues in the back of your mind, allows you to relax and enjoy the paddle wholeheartedly!

The weight capacity for the board says 250 lbs which at this weight, I’m sure the board will still feel stable. If however, you are needing something a bit bigger, Aquaglide also has an 11’ and 12’ in the Cascade series.

Accessories

Repair kit

Everything you’ll ever need in the unlikely event your board needs repairing!
- 4 x (4″ x 6″) Commercial PVC patches (assorted colors)
- 2 x (3″ x 6″) Tear Aide patches
- Shop towel
- China Marker
- Sandpaper
- HH-66 Marine grade glue
- MEK (used for cleaner)
Pump

Your Cascade is equipped with a high pressured hose pump. Though only a single action pump, the “thick barrel” pumps a little more air than the usual single action. On the pump, you’ll see a pressure gauge reader which is perfect for knowing when your SUP is at its optimum PSI.

Pros
- Performs well for an entry-level / budget priced board
- Durable
- Stable
- Reliable company
Cons
- Not many accessories – No included paddle, leash etc
- Single action pump is tough to use in high PSI numbers
- Limited maneuverability
Conclusion

If you are a beginner and just starting out with SUP riding and not feeling comfortable yet to be splurging a big amount of some of the higher-quality boards, the Aquaglide Cascade is a guaranteed good option.

The Aquaglide Cascade is extremely beginner friendly – it’s tough, a breeze to paddle, super stable and priced well.

It lacks in essential accessories such as a paddle and leash but if this is just a board to add to your quiver, especially if your quiver is for your whole family, you should be able to make do with your spares. Not including those accessories is also what makes it so affordable and lets you buy a higher quality paddle than you’ll find in most standup paddleboard package deals.

If you are looking for a fast or performance level board, this is not the board for you. Check out our other inflatable boards for more detailed reviews. I’m sure your perfect match is waiting for you there.
December 27, 2017
Bestway HydroForce Wave Edge 10’2″ inflatable SUP review
The Bestway HydroForce Wave Edge. This mouthful of a name suggests complexity, I conjure images of some spaceship super styling it’s way across the face of a wave. However, if we dive back into reality, the Bestway HydroForce Wave Edge 10’2″ standup paddleboard is a simple but efficient beginner SUP.

The Bestway company was founded in 1994. Bestway specializes in inflatable products and the company ensures a sustainable approach to their manufacturing through various recycling systems.

** Extra points! They now have nine overseas branches, products being sold in 110 countries, covering six continents. **

Considering their success, it’s a relatively safe presumption that their products are worth what you pay for. In this case, the HydroForce Wave Edge is cheap as chips as far as inflatable SUP’s go.

Let’s take a look at what the HydroForce 10’2 has to offer. Our review of the HydroForce Wave Edge is as follows.

Specifications

Length 10’ 2”

Thickness 4”

Width 27”

Weight 16.8lbs

Capacity 220lbs

What You’ll Get When You Purchase The HydroForce WaveEdge 10’2″
- The Inflatable Standup Paddleboard
- Travel Back Pack
- Aluminum Paddle
- Inflation Hand Pump
- Repair Kit
Review

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Materials

Much like many of the other inflatable boards we review, the HydroForce iSUP is made with the drop-stitch material process. Many reviewers and readers have a basic understanding of what that means. The short explanation of drop stitching is:

Drop stitching – A form of construction where thousands of robust threads/ fibers are stitched top to bottom inside the inner layer. Using this as the inner layer for an iSUP means that the board can be inflated to high pressures and kept compact all the way through.

The technical explanation you can find here.

What I also know is that it makes inflatables like the HydroForce as sturdy and rigid as most hardboard standup paddleboards.

Non-Slip Traction Deck Pad

The traction pad on the Bestway HydroForce covers about ⅔ of the board. It’s perfect for beginners who might be getting used to where they put their feet and makes climbing back on the paddleboard easier after you’ve fallen off!

Bungee Tie Downs and D-rings

5 D-rings are featured on the board: 4 are placed at the nose of your board with the accompanied tie-down cord to help secure anything you may want to bring with you.

We find this storage particularly helpful for storing things like water, snacks, the paddle, extra clothing such as jackets and hats. All of these items make a leisurely sup experience (wouldn’t recommend taking items into the surf, they’ll probably stay there, but most likely be saturated!) a significantly more enjoyable time. I particularly love taking some nuts and fruits for extra energy!

Of course the fifth for the attached safety of your leg rope/leash.

Fins

HydroForce Wave Edge 10’2″ blow up paddle board uses a 3 fin setup. The center fin is detachable, which makes for an easier pack away. However, the two side fines still create some problems for compact storage when rolling your board up.

The 3 fin setup provides extra stability and enough maneuverability for small wave riding. The center fin could be a bit larger to help beginners stay tracking straight.

Portability

Nothing like the ease of portability when it comes to owning a SUP. After you’ve had to transport your SUP 100 times, you’ll be thankful for any little improvements in the portability. That’s where a blow-up paddleboard comes in handy!

The HydroForce Wave Edge features a handle in the middle of the board for carrying your board once inflated. As the handle is actually a material handle attached to the board it takes a significant amount of strain off the carrier. Other standup paddle boards feature an indent on the board for the handle, which can be quite strenuous on your hands/arms.

At the end of your paddling, once your board is rolled up, you can place it back into the bag that comes with your purchase. The bag holds enough room for your board but that’s about it. The paddle that comes with your purchase also doesn’t pack down, so if you’re looking to travel with your board, keep this in mind!

Inflate/Deflate

Most users make comments about the inflate process being arduous. The recommended inflation pressure is 12 PSI and it does take a substantial amount of hard work to get there. The optimistic view is that this is all a part of a warm-up!

However, over time you may want to invest in an electric pump to help ease the strain.

Overall Performance

The 3 fin setup does allow for a better than average surf in small waves. We don’t recommend taking the board out in anything above 2ft. There isn’t much of a rocker on the board so it won’t handle steep waves either.

You’ll be supplied with a paddle upon purchase, however, it is on the cheaper quality side, so to get the best performance out of your paddling, we recommend making a separate purchase.

The 27” width is slightly on the smaller side, which could cause issues for brand new SUP riders. However, it’s perfect for small riders such as kids.

Balance is a bit of an issue for any bigger riders as the pre-mentioned width but also when paired with the thickness, 4”, these dimensions don’t provide a lot of stability for most adults. There’s also a risk with heavy usage of the board sagging in the middle over time.

The great point is that its shape is designed with a streamlined effect, so if the right rider climbs aboard they will love their time out on the water. You will also find it extremely stable if you are the right fit!

The 3 fins while great for maneuverability in chop and small waves, can hinder a flatwater experience by reducing the ability to track straight. So a toss-up with how much and where you’ll use this board as well as how experienced you are with paddling before you make a purchase.

Accessories

Repair kit

Perfect for any small punctures or scratches that could cause air leakage over a prolonged period!

Paddle

As pre-mentioned, the aluminum paddle isn’t high quality. It’s a bit heavy, doesn’t packway easily and adjusts to only 2 sizes. It does float though!

Still, as a beginner, you probably won’t notice the difference straight away. When you’re getting a bit more serious or becoming a more advanced SUP rider, you might want to have a look at better quality SUP paddles.

Pump

The pump also isn’t high quality. While it does do its job, it would be smart to invest in an electric pump or a better quality double action hand pump if you are planning to consistently use your HydroForce Wave Edge. You may find the pumping not so arduous though, which in that case, there’s a pressure gauge to know you’ve reached the optimum pressure (12PSI).

Leash

Also included in the purchase is a leg rope/leash, which is a must for safety! Attach it through the D-ring at the end of your board and away you go!

Pros
- One of the cheapest on the market
- Very suitable for an entry-level stand up paddle board for kids or light adults
- Very affordable!
- Durable (board materials)
- Stable
- Big company reassurance and 1-year Warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for big/heavy riders
- Hard to inflate
- Lacks quality materials for accessories (paddle, bag etc)
Conclusion

This Hydro Force blow up paddleboard does have a handful of downfalls but what still makes it popular and appealing is its price tag. You can’t get a board for much cheaper than this. If you are just wanting to have a SUP to use a handful of times a year, or you want a board for your kids to have fun, this could be perfect.

Alternatively, it makes a great inexpensive present for your kids. Get’s them out being active and doesn’t strip your wallet dry!

If you are looking for a fast or performance level standup paddleboard, this is not the board for you. Check out our other inflatable boards for more detailed reviews. Happy SUP shopping!
October 24, 2017
How to SUP for beginners
We know you’re probably super excited and feeling impatient. You’ve already conjured images of yourself gliding elegantly, the setting sun with its warmth on your face, glistening through the leaves that line the serene lake. Onlookers are admiring your poise and seemingly effortless paddling.

However, If you have never been out on a standup paddleboard (SUP) before, it’s imperative to know about safety. Knowing a little about the technique is helpful too!

If you haven’t got your board yet, check out this helpful guide on buying your first SUP.

So here it is. The birds and bees of your first SUP experience.

Safety First
- Can you swim?
Sometimes even the most experienced lose their boards unexpectedly, leg ropes snap, or aren’t put on correctly. The more common reason why you may find yourself swimming is due to falling off. The leg rope (leash) on a paddleboard is surprisingly long. Even if you are attached, you may find yourself swimming a little way. If you aren’t a strong swimmer, you should consider wearing a lifejacket. Always be safe on the water.
- What’s your level of fitness?
Remember that for how far you paddle away from where you started, you need to make it back!
- Where are you paddling?
If you are starting out on SUP we’d strongly suggest you begin on flat water. If where you are paddling feeds out to the ocean, paddle as far away from the mouth (where it meets the ocean) as possible. With the change of incoming and outgoing tides, currents increase both ways. These currents are more amplified closer to the mouth of a river. Basically, if the tide is going out, you will be getting pulled out to the ocean and one of two things could happen. You may end up in the ocean…eek! Or you will be having an arduous paddle back. Vice versa, if you paddle down the river and want to come back on an incoming tide, you’ll be one tired paddler when you get back. The aim is to make the first few times as easy as possible. Where you can, you should control factors to make your first time an easier paddle. We want you to come away with seething satisfaction.
- How long do you plan to go out?
Take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, a hat, and a rash vest or shirt. A sunburnt SUP-er is not what we want. Consider the reflection of the water, you’ll be getting twice the dose of UV rays as you would if you were standing in a park. If you are planning to be out for more than an hour, take water! Stay hydrated. It’s surprising how quickly a SUP session can make you thirsty. Lack of water can lead to some killer headaches and fatigue, not what you want if you’ve still got a half-hour paddle back home.

Now the fun part!

Step By Step Guide: How to Paddle

THE MOST IMPORTANT PART

Now we’re going to take you through a quick step-by-step how to paddle.
- Adjust your paddle
The general rule is to grab the paddle, stand it upright next to the blade on the floor, and extend your arm above your head. The handle should sit nicely under your hand with your arm slightly bent.
- Get your board
If you have an inflatable SUP – time to get pumping!

Inflatable or hardboard, you should have a hold in the middle of the board. You use this as a handle, scoop the board under your arm and carry away! (Don’t forget to stay conscious of the length you’re carrying behind you too!)
- To The Water
Place your board in the water and if you’re with someone, ask them to steady the board for you. The middle of the board (where you hold the board whilst carrying) is where you want to be positioned. Either exactly over it or just behind it. You can start by getting aboard into a kneeling position if you feel particularly unsteady. From there you can slowly stand up as you find your balance. Keep that friend closeby for a steady hand if you’re feeling those wobbles!
- The First Stroke
Now lift that chin up, gaze to the horizon, and ask for your paddle. You’ve got this! Keep your gaze forwards (it will help with balance). You’ll want your knees slightly bent for a stronger stance too. Grab the paddle with one hand clasped over the handle at the top and the other below on the shaft. A good strong paddle is achieved by totally submerging the blade when you stroke. It gains the most power. Twist your torso as you pull your stroke through. Work those abs! You’ll last longer if you don’t rely solely on your arms to power your paddle. At first, just small stroked with this technique will do while you get used to the whole experience.
- Now You’re Getting It!
So now you are paddling, keep switching sides, always keeping one hand on top and one just below. If you need to go to the left, paddle more on your right and vice versa. If you want to turn around quicker, paddle backward! If you keep paddling backward you’ll do donuts 😉
- The Inevitable
At some point in your SUP life, you will fall off. Maybe won’t be the first time, but it will happen at some point. The good thing is that water doesn’t hurt! Just remember to grab your board before your paddle if you can. Again, climb back on and into your kneeling position. A fall can interrupt your balance, so take a moment to make sure you’re balanced. Some deep focused breaths and off you go again!
- THE MOST IMPORTANT
Smile, have fun, don’t take yourself or others too seriously, encourage others, and be proud of yourself. Take a moment to appreciate how something so simple as getting on a board and going for a paddle can make you so happy and relaxed!

CONGRATULATIONS ON JOINING THE SUP CLUB

You’re all set now. If you haven’t got your board yet, check out our other article of a beginner’s guide to buying a SUP.

Or check out our top 5 of the best inflatable stand up paddle boards:
This is a guide for if you are just starting out, it won’t take you long to progress and you’ll soon find that there is more to a SUP session than what we’ve written here. Which is fantastic! Otherwise, the fun levels would drop rapidly as you become a better SUP rider.

When you are starting out, you don’t need to worry about the smaller details, they won’t be applicable and it’ll take away from the experience. We want you to spend more time smiling and having fun, rather than worrying about what you’re doing wrong.

May your first experiences be SUPstantial 🙂
September 14, 2017
BIC Sport Inflatable Kayaks Dinghies SUPs and Surfboards
BIC Sport is a brand that belongs to a very unique category, because it is capable of manufacturing up to 6 different types of water sports products. From SUPs and surfboards, to hard-shelled and inflatable kayaks, dinghies, and their signature windsurfers, BIC can do it all. For this particular article, we will be reviewing their most popular (inflatable) kayaks and best-selling standup paddleboards (SUP) lineups.

A Brief Overview of the BIC Sport Brand

Link to BIC Surfboards

BIC Sport was founded in Vannes, Brittany, in 1979. Within just one year, they released their first product, which was a windsurfer called the Dufour Wing. Windsurfing would later become the most popular watersport of the late 20^th century, and with it came the rapid growth of BIC’s reputation.

Between 1990 and 2000 windsurfing slowly declined in fame, while other board sports like surfing and snowboarding started to attract bigger crowds. Although this did not stop BIC from continuing their windsurfer line, it also did not take long for them to realize that fewer people gained interest in the sport.

This pushed BIC to expand its catalogue and in 1994 the firm acquired Tiga, which is a brand that specialized in sport surfboards. This amalgamation lead to the release of the company’s first surf board, the Natural Surf, followed by other models that helped shape the BIC that is known today.

It was not until the year 2002 that BIC released its first sports kayak, the Bilbao, which is a sit-on-top kayak. After taking home various World Championship titles in Funboarding, BIC slowed down and decided to forego joining future, top level competitions, and began focusing more in their product manufacturing.

Armed with this newfound motivation, BIC was able to come up with the latest innovations in the water sports industry. Some of its most notable achievements involve the creation of their sailing dinghy and the launch of its first sport standup paddleboard (SUP). Even after 2 decades, the company is still as dedicated in discovering new and future-advanced techniques to improve their current and future lineups.

BIC Sport Inflatable Kayaks and Standup Paddleboards

As indicated in the introduction, this review section will consist of 3 specific models and 2 general lineups. The former will deal with kayaks, varying between inflatable and solid types. As for the latter, both will pertain to hard-shell SUPs (stand up paddle boards).
- BIC Sport Nomad HP3 Tandem Inflatable Kayak
The Sport Nomad HP3 tandem is an exceptional addition to BIC’s growing collection of high-pressure inflatable kayaks. It is a 2 seater model, but with an option for a 3^rd paddler, as long as the right setup is achieved. Furthermore, the BIC Nomad HP3 is modeled for leisure use and recreational kayaking trips, be it with family or close friends.

It measures around 33.5 in. wide and 16 ft. 4.9 in long. This gives the kayak a narrow and long profile, yet it is still spacious for 2 people to settle in comfortably. As for the weight, it carries a heaviness of 55.1 lbs., which is not that demanding, especially since this inflatable kayak is intended to be carried/used by more than 1 person.

Construction-wise, the BIC Nomad HP3 kayak is made using Cordura polyester fabric for its top deck. This type of material not only provides high resistance to tears and abrasions, but it is also stylishly durable. As for the hull, it features a drop-stitch assembly with reinforced PVC cover.

The drop-stitching is what gives the Nomad HP3 kayak its rigid frame, almost on par with hard shell kayaks. The PVC layer keeps the hull protected against the harsh UV rays and from getting too soaked. With these two combined, you can kayak all day long, without fear of damaging the vessel.

Moreover, the air bladders are made with polyurethane, allowing them to be flexible yet tough, notably when fully inflated. They also sport Dacron shell covers, which further enhances their overall robustness.

Stability is also not going to be an issue with the BIC Nomad HP3 tandem kayak, thanks to its high-pressure keel. This is also complemented well by the high-pressure floor, resulting to an even steadier performance, which is perfect for family and beginner kayaking.

All in all, there are 3 air chambers in this BIC inflatable kayak. What this entail is a more dependable means for getting back to shore, just in case one of the bladders accidentally puncture. If it had fewer air compartments, you will be more likely to sink in such scenario.

To inflate the kayak, access the 2 Boston valves and the single high-pressure floor valve. These three ports are easy to manipulate and quick to pump air into, which leads to faster setup time as well as deflation.

Along with the main module, you will also be getting 2 seats with anatomic backrest. In addition, 2 adjustable footrests can be integrated in the deck, allowing you and your paddle-partner to achieve a position that both of you will be most comfortable with.

For added utility, a safety grab line, as well as a carry handle at the bow and stern, are readily available for your convenience. Surprisingly enough, a paddle attachment is also present, which is not that common in inflatable kayaks. With it, you can secure your paddle, thus preventing it from falling underwater.

Other accessories that come with the BIC Nomad HP3 tandem inflatable kayak is as follows: a transport backpack, a pump with pressure gauge and Y-adaptor, and a repair kit. Good thing is that you have to provide the paddle separately. Because of this you can choose the best quality paddle for you, instead of getting a generic cheap paddle that you probably want to replace very soon.
- BIC Sport Yakkair HP1 Inflatable Kayak
For the solo adventurists, the BIC Sport Yakkair HP1 is the ideal inflatable kayak to bring. It has everything you could ever ask for in an blow up kayak. It is portable, lightweight, stable, and offers a generous amount of utility.

A major contributor to the Yakkair HP1’s nimble and compact build is the combination of materials used to construct it. Like with other units under the Yakkair lineup, this model also has reduced wind drag, meaning it is easier to steer out on the open sea. Tracking and general performance are also very commendable, thanks to an innovative hull design.

This BIC inflatable kayak sports a high-pressure floor, and below it lays the high-pressure keel. When you put your weight on the deck, the base will assume a V-shape, which will then symmetrically curve against the pressure of the water. This results to a double concave outline that not only improves the kayak’s ability to cut through water, but it also enhances overall steadiness.

When it comes to its physical dimensions, the BIC Yakkair HP1 kayak measures 10’9” long and 35.4” wide. Such size is more than plenty for one adult to fill in, along with several gears. The provided seat is well padded and comes with a backrest. A footrest is also supplemented, which will give you long lasting comfort even when kayaking for hours.

Also available as BIC Yakkair 2-Person kayak

The weight of the BIC Yakkair HP1 inflatable kayak is only 24.2 lbs. When you pack it inside the bundled carry bag, along with the other auxiliary tools, such as the footrest, backrest, paddle, and pump, you will typically end up with around 33 lbs. of total heft. In most instances, such amount of bulk is relatively light for one person to transport.

If you want to bring some equipment, you can store them in the stowing mesh at the front and rear of the kayak. Aside from these mesh nets, there is also a paddle attachment you can use to secure your paddling tool. A pump and repair kit is packaged with this product.
- BIC Sport Tobago Sit-on-top Kayak
The BIC Sport Tobago is a hard-shelled kayak that guarantees an impressively stable ride. It is durably built, has tons of utility, tracks effectively, and features ergonomic seating. Truly, the BIC Tobago is the perfect sit-on-top kayak to bring on a family outing or fishing trip.

Your comfort is a big deal for BIC, which is why this model features the brand’s own unique ergonomic seating. It is specifically designed to encourage a more relaxed paddling by preventing your pelvis from being pushed too forward. The BIC Tobago also sets your center of gravity low enough to maintain optimal stability when cruising.

For added comfort, the seats are armed with foam pads, which provide ample buttressing for long periods of use. There are also abrasion protectors at the front and rear, which not only makes launching effortless, but it augments the kayak’s overall defense.

In the event that you accidentally fall overboard, the built-in safety lines will allow you to re-enter the Tobago kayak without much effort. For your gear management, you can utilize the elasticized strap to secure each item you bring. Transporting the BIC Tobago is also made easy; thanks to its rubber-coated carry handles, both at the front and rear ends.

When it comes to the hull, the BIC Tobago sit-on-top kayak sports the THD (triple hull design) build. This particular design approach enhances the glide potential and overall maneuverability of the kayak. Once you get to see the unit in person, you will immediately notice the amount of craftsmanship and sophistication that was put into its hull design, especially when you experience it in action.

In terms of size, this hard-body kayak measures 12 ft. 11 in. x 33.1 in. (length x width). It is long enough for two adult-sized paddlers to fit in restfully and with plenty of legroom, while still having room left for a small child.

As expected from a hard shell kayak, this one is a little heavier than an inflatable kayak, weighing around 70 lbs. However, such amount of heft will only pose a problem if you are going solo, not so much if you have a partner to help you out.

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage that this BIC kayak has lies in its lack of portability. Unlike inflatable kayaks, you cannot exactly fold and unfold a hard shell type, so you have to allot a considerable amount of space when travelling with it.

On a more positive note, the hardiness of its construction does make it ideal for fishing. This is because the material will not be as susceptible to tears or punctures brought by fishing hooks. More importantly, solid kayaks like this one are very stable, allowing you to reel in those huge catches with confidence.
- BIC Sport Dura-Tec Standup Paddleboard
BIC Sport holds one of the most extensive and diverse collection of SUPs in the current market. The BIC Dura-Tec SUP, or series of SUPs rather, stands to the test of time. One prime explanation as to why this lineup is so sought after is because of its flexibility.

Unlike other lineups in BIC’s vast list of SUPs, the Dura-Tec models fit an all-around use. Whether you are touring, riding waves, or simply cruising the flatwater, this product line performs terrific in each environment.

All Dura-Tec SUPs are also built with optimal ruggedness. This is all thanks to a combination of polyethylene and high-density foam materials. The former component is used on the outer skin of the board, giving it a level of resilience similar to that of an inflatable kayak. Just to be clear, the BIC Dura-Tec is not an inflatable SUP but an hard-shell board. When you want to check out the BIC inflatable standup paddleboards, click on this BIC iSUP link.

As for the high-density foam, it serves as the main core of the product. This construction is somewhat identical to what you would normally find in conventional surfboards. That being said, expect only the most rigid and stable performance from these SUPs.

At present, there are four sizes available in the Dura-Tec series, which includes the following: 9’4”, 9’10”, 10’4”, and 11’4”. If you weigh less than 135 lbs., the first iteration will work fine. For 190-lb. users and below, the 9’10” model is perfect. If you are heavier than the aforementioned figures, then either the 10’4” or 11’4” will be viable.

The Dura-Tec standup paddleboard line also sports an in-built ergonomic carry handle, which promotes effortless transport in and out of the water. A deck pad is also integrated in each model, ensuring a non-slip performance. Furthermore, a removable dolphin fin will be provided, which can greatly improve overall tracking.

Regrettably, no paddle is packaged with the BIC Sport Dura-Tec standup paddleboards. However, this is normally the case even among other SUP brands. The advantage is that you can choose the best (carbon) paddle instead of settling for a lesser quality that might be included in the package.
- BIC Sport Tough-Tec Performer SUP
The Performer series is another one of BIC’s bestseller. It currently has around 11 products under its group, but only 3 of which are built using Tough-Tec technology (the 9’12”, 10’6”, and 11’6”). With the Performer Tough-Tec pairing, you get a board that is not only strong, but is also very versatile.

By default, the Performer SUPs feature a surf-inspired design, which is perfect for either paddling over flat waters or for overcoming waves. They also have various attachment points, one tail leash plug and two points in the front for securing your gears (i.e. snorkeling tools).

All BIC Performer SUP models are also equipped with an embossed EVA deck pad. Such platform is not only comfortable to stand on, but it also promotes optimal traction, which prevents you from losing you footing.

Performer paddleboards sport a moderate rocker profile and a round thumb tail outline. The former helps the board glide naturally on still water, while also achieving a fairly similar performance within the surf zone. The latter design, on the other hand, is what allows the device to pivot effortlessly and execute seamless rail transfers.

The aforementioned features are just the ones you can expect from the standard Performer SUP. When you add the Tough-Tec construction into the mix, the affected boards are granted with new and unique characteristics.

For one, all Tough-Tec-made Performers are given a molded, watertight EPS foam core. It may not seem that impressive on paper, but this component is actually the reason why Tough-Tec Performer standup paddleboards are so structurally stiff.

When it comes to the outer shell, a polyethylene skin is used for high impact resistance. Molded external inserts are also employed, so no penetration through the exterior shell takes place.

What makes BIC Sport so great?

The biggest advantage that BIC has over other inflatable water sports brands is its multiple manufacturing techniques. In the entire water sports industry, only BIC has three different processing methods available under one roof. These techniques include: thermoforming, thermoforming around a polystyrene core, and blow molding.

These three procedures are the reasons why BIC is able to freely create up to 6 different types of boating product. Without these construction systems, techniques like TST (twin-sheet thermoforming), Ace-Tec/Tough-Tec, and Dura-Tec, would not have existed.
August 6, 2017
Newport Vessels Inflatable Dinghies and SUP
Newport Vessels is a leader in creating high quality inflatable dinghies, boating accessories, and standup paddleboards.

If you are looking for a reliable inflatable boat, without breaking the bank, then Newport Vessels has what you need. We will be reviewing some of their most well received items. One of them is an iSUP (inflatable stand up paddleboard), and the others are inflatable dinghies.

A Brief Overview of the Newport Vessels Brand

Link to Newport Vessels Standup Paddleboards

It is always a good idea to get to know the brand and company you are buying from. For one, this will give you valuable insights as to how they handle their production, as well as how they cater to their consumers. Furthermore, you are more likely trust the manufacturer once you get to know them a little better.

Compared to other producers of inflatable water sports crafts, Newport Vessels is fairly new in the industry. It was founded in San Francisco, back in 2008, but it did not take long for business to bloom. One of the biggest reasons why it has gained so much acclaim over the years is because of its interactive approach to patrons.

What makes Newport Vessels different from most of its competitors is that they deal directly to you, making them its own brand. This means they do not rely on major distributors or retailers to handle their goods. Therefore, when you order from them, expect them to be the one to deliver the product straight to your doorstep.

More importantly, the lack of secondary suppliers ensures that all items are not affected by ridiculous, sometimes unnecessary price markups. From factory to buyers, Newport Vessels guarantees reasonable price ranges. Their lineups are not only premium, but they are also available at half, if not less than half the price of other similar units.

Admittedly, Newport Vessels still partners with select (online) retailers. But, they only do so when the interested dealers have the same principal as them, so no huge disparities in cost take place. Plus, this is another way for the manufacturer to reach a wider audience.

After garnering esteem for its innovative design approach on inflatable boats, the group decided to give their own take on standup paddleboards. This desire lead to the formation of their Umami SUP division, which produces SUPs and several accessories.

Aside from boats and SUPs, this company also offers trolling motors and various marine accessories. The availability of motors from the same brand is quite advantageous because all Newport Vessels boats are designed to be affixed with one. Having such source of movement aside from manual paddling will definitely help all units perform at their full potential.

Newport Vessels Inflatable Dinghies and SUP

As mentioned above, we will go over five items from this brand, four of which are boat models, and the other is an SUP.
- Newport Vessels Dana 8’10” Inflatable Dinghy
The Dana 8’10” model is the smallest among Newport Vessels’ entire inflatable dinghies lineups. It measures 106 in. long and 60 in. wide, when fully inflated. As for the inside length and width, it measures 69 in. and 24 in., respectively.

Overall, it weighs 107 lbs., which is light enough by most standards. In terms of max weight capacity, the Dana can bear up to 1,067 lbs. of total heft (passenger + gears), which is sufficient for up to 3 people. Part of the reason why the Dana dinghy can withstand such amount of bulk, is because of its 4 air chambers (3 main tubes and 1 keel).

Speaking of tubes, the Newport Vessels Dana dinghy uses large ones, which measures 18 in. in diameter. This makes the unit highly stable and buoyant, even at high speeds. The aluminum framed marine wood flooring also further improves stability, allowing you to move on the deck with better balance.

Construction-wise, the Dana 8’10” is made with 1,100 denier Korean PVC. Such fabric is highly resistant to abrasions and punctures, giving you the confidence that no small bumps will damage your unit. PVC is also quite flexible, which makes the product easy store.

Inflating this dinghy will usually take around 15-20 minutes long, particularly if you are a first-time user. However, subsequent setups will become easier and faster, especially once you get the hang in manipulating the device’s Halkey Roberts directional locking air valves. Deflation on the other hand, will more or less need 5 minutes to finish.

The recommended pressure for the main tubes is 3.6 PSI, whereas the keel can hold up to 4.5 PSI. Either way, both values are already optimal for the Dana to assume a firm shape, which in turn, enhances maneuverability.

Apart from the main module, you will also receive the following items upon your purchase: bench seat, set of oars, foot pump, repair kit, and a carrying bag. The Newport Vessels Dana can actually hold two seats, but you have to buy the extra one separately.

When it comes to motor compatibility, this inflatable dinghy can use a motor of up to 10 hp. Depending on the outboard, it is possible to achieve 17 mph using a 9.8-hp motor, with 2 passengers onboard.
- Newport Vessels Del Mar 9’6″ Inflatable Dinghy
The Del Mar is several inches longer than the Dana. Specifically, it measures 114 in. long, but the width remains the same, which is 60 in. As for the inside dimensions, it has a length of 77 in., and a width of 24 in.

With the added length, the passenger capacity has also gone up, which is now 4. However, make sure not to go beyond the 1,124-lbs. weight limit. The number of air chambers is still the same as the Dana dinghy, which is 4 (3 tube, 1 keel).

If you decide to attach an outboard, the Newport Vessels Del Mar dinghy can make use of a motor with a maximum power of 10 HP. Estimated speed is somewhat the same as the Dana, which is 17 mph (9.8 hp, with 2 adults). The more you add passengers, the lower the achievable cruising speed.

The Del Mar also utilizes Halkey Roberts air valves, which are very easy to regulate and pump air into. This speeds up the inflation (15 minutes) and deflation (5 minutes) process, resulting to fast setups and effortless disassembly.

Once you are done using the inflatable boat, you can store it back to the bundled carrying bag. Other packaged accessories include: a bench seat, oars, foot pump, and repair kit. More importantly, you will also get the proper DMV paperwork, which is present in all Newport Vessels inflatable boats, so you can register your unit with ease.

Resistance against impacts and punctures is also not a problem, since this boat uses 1,100 denier Korean fabric. As for the floorboard, a set of aluminum framed marine wood boards is provided, which can be laid down seamlessly. Similar to the flooring, the transom is also made from marine wood.

Furthermore, the Del Mar’s main tubes can also hold a similar amount of air pressure as the Dana, which is 3.6 PSI. The same can be said for the keel pressure, which is 4.5 PSI for both units.
- Newport Vessels Santa Cruz 10′ Inflatable Dinghy
If you are not a fan of hard floors, then the Newport Vessels Santa Cruz 10’ dinghy is a good alternative. Instead of aluminum framed marine wood flooring, as seen in the 2 aforementioned entries, this one comes with a drop stitch high-pressure air mat floor.

What is the difference, you ask? Well, for one, the drop stitch variety does not involve multiple parts. This means no assembly is required. All you need to do is fill it with air up to the recommended air pressure level (8.0 PSI), until firm.

This type of flooring is also lighter than the solid aluminum kind. Because of this, the Santa Cruz 10’ is able to attain higher mph compared to the Dana and Del Mar dinghies. Even though all three have the same 10-HP max motor power requirement, the Newport Vessels Santa Cruz 10’ inflatable dinghy can reach 25+ mph using a 9.9 HP outboard.

Albeit the floorboard is different, the Santa Cruz 10’ is still made with 1,100 denier Korean PVC. This guarantees that the boat is strong enough to survive a beating.

The set of accessories for this dinghy is still identical to what you can expect from the 1^st and 2^nd entries. There is the bench seat, the set of oars, the repair kit and carry bag, and the foot pump.

As for the physical dimensions of the device, it measures 123 x 60 in. (length x width). Other specifications of the Santa Cruz 10’ are as follows; a 99-lbs. boat weight, 4 air chambers, 1,124 lbs. weight capacity, and 18 in. tube diameter.
- Newport Vessels Baja 11’9″ Inflatable Dinghy
The Baja 11’9″ is the second largest inflatable dinghy under Newport Vessels. With its 142 x 66 in. (length x width) physical dimensions, the Baja is discernibly longer and wider than the 3 units listed thus far. As for the interior, it measures 106 in. long and 30 in. wide.

Due to its bigger size, up to 6 passengers can ride this inflatable dinghy boat. The 1,519-lbs. maximum weight limit of the item also helps in this regard. As for the heaviness of the boat itself, it weighs 160 lbs., which is light enough for 6 people to carry together.

Another perk for having a larger craft is being able to install a bigger outboard. For the Newport Vessels Baja in particular, it is able to handle a motor of up to 20 HP worth of power. With an optimal setup, the Baja can easily reach 25 mph with 3 persons aboard.

This vessel also sports an aluminum framed marine wood floor, giving it a steady performance. The solid flooring also complements the high-pressure inflatable keel of the boat, which results to enhanced tracking and overall maneuverability.

Surprisingly enough, despite the Baja’s big size, setting it up still takes no time at all. In fact, it can be done in just 15-20 minutes, much like the other dinghy models on this list. Deflation also lasts somewhat the same as the others, which is 5 minutes, give or take.

In terms of accessories, expect the following add-ons: 2 aluminum oars, a carrying bag, repair kit, foot pump, and aluminum seat. Oarlocks and oar holders are also built in for easy rowing during emergencies.

When it comes to the build, the Baja dinghy is made using Newport Vessel’s signature manufacturing method, with 1,100 denier PVC as the main fabric. Towing D-rings and a one-way drain plug are also provided for added utility.

If you’re looking for an even larger inflatable dinghy of Newport Vessels, check out the Catalina 12’6″ dinghy.
- Newport Vessels Umami 9’10” Standup Paddleboard
Our fifth and last entry is where we deviate from the other products listed here. As you might have already guessed from the name, the Newport Vessels Umami is a stand up paddleboard.

In general, this SUP has a length of 118 in., and a width of 34 in. When completely blown up, the item can get 4 in. thick. As for the weight, it carries a bulk of 20.50 lbs., which is manageable enough for one person to transport.

This board is made with high-pressure PVC drop stitch material. This is what gives the item its rigid yet flexible construction.

Both inflation and deflation of this standup paddleboard only takes around 5 minutes. The total amount of heft it can withstand is 225 lbs. Recommended air pressure rates at 14.5 PSI.

Standard accessories that come with this iSUP of Newport Vessels include: a pressure gauge, hand pump, aluminium paddle, repair kit, a mesh storage backpack, and an 8 in. removable fin. What the fin does is improve the board’s ability to slice steadily through water, so you do not have to exert too much effort when paddling.

A special kayak seat kit is also obtainable for the Umami standup paddleboard from Newport Vessels, which can be attached via the 4 middle D-rings.

For a guaranteed non-slip performance, the Umami 9’10” standup paddleboard is equipped with a non-slip EVA foam on its surface. A carry handle is also present, so you can easily take the SUP in and out of the water.

There is also a slightly shorter iSUP available; the Newport Vessels Umami 9’2″ standup paddleboard.

What makes Newport Vessels so great?

There are a lot of aspects that makes Newport Vessels worth picking. One of which is the way it handles product distribution, wherein units are directly delivered to you, which effectively gets rid of huge price markups. As for the items themselves, here are the factors that make them great:
- Quality Construction
All of Newport Vessels’ inflatable boats use top-grade PVC material, more specifically a 1,100 denier Korean fabric. As you may or may not know, the denier number indicates the thickness of the material. The higher the better, which in this case, the one that the brand uses is definitely substantial.

Without going into too much detail, this type of PVC construction consists of 3 layers, 4 if you count the base cloth. Each layer acts as a protective coating, as well as a shield against abrasions and punctures.

In addition, the type of PVC used by Newport Vessels has flex additives and UV protectants. Moreover, each of their inflatable is held together by imported German-grade adhesives.

The company clearly indicates all these elements in every product specification. Usually, if a supplier does not disclose any information on such properties, then it is highly likely that their products do not use them.

How important are these added layers, you ask? Well, the flex additives allow the device to be pliable, so they will be easy to fold and unfold. As for the UV protectants, it prevents UV degradation. Lastly, the German adhesive helps abate delamination, breakdowns, and corrosions.

The drop stitch floor and aluminum framed marine wood floor that Newport Vessels implements are also commendably durable. Although the latter type offers more rigidity and stability, the former does have the advantage of being lighter and easier to setup.
- Exceptional Performance
As you may have noticed in all the boats listed above, they all come with an inflatable keel. This gives the bottom of each boat a more defined shape, which leads to better planing and tracking, especially when cruising at higher speed. The SUP line’s version has a removable glasfiber fin.
- Amazing utility
From the one-way drain plug, to the towing D-rings, and oar holders, among others, all Newport Vessels inflatable dinghies definitely provides you with plenty of utility and convenience. The built-in carry handles also promote quick and easy transport of each unit.
- Generous Accessories
Apart from the inexpensive products, the accessories that the Newport Vessels company bundle with each unit also deserves praise for the incredible value they cater. Add-ons like the bench seat, oars (except the SUP), carry bag, repair kit, and foot pump, all make your investment worthwhile.
July 22, 2017
Aquaglide Inflatable Kayaks and SUP boards
Aquaglide is a great company for every water sports enthusiast looking for a new inflatable kayak or standup paddle board! Next to all the recreational water toys like rafts, tubes, sliders and more, Aquaglide is a popular brand for kayakers and SUP boarders!

From their name alone, your first impression would probably be that this company is all about the water. That is quite correct as Aquaglide has a lot of experience and has a great reputation when it comes to designing and manufacturing watercraft for commercial water sports.

Aquaglide knows exactly what you need, whether it is an inflatable kayak or a standup paddleboard. Aquaglide can get you through almost all waters be it the open ocean, a rushing torrent of white water, or just a calm and peaceful episode at the nearby lake.

A Brief Overview of the Aquaglide Brand

Link to Aquaglide inflatable SUPs

Aquaglide has its beginnings more than three decades ago near the Columbia river. The pioneers of the company have always been near the water and also had the feel of adventure. Probably part of the reason is that the company’s original headquarters was at the base of three volcanoes which are famous throughout the world.

The waters surrounding Aquaglide’s office were a combination of interconnected waterways that seemingly went on forever, calm and easy coves, and of course whitewater rapids. These varying water environments led the people behind Aquaglide to come up with world-class quality inflatable kayaks and blow up paddle boards.

Because the designers and manufacturers of Aquaglide were exposed to both calm waters as well as extreme, dangerous ones, it is not a wonder that they knew exactly just what a kayaker needed for almost any type of water environment.

Aquaglide’s reputation in the field of water sports is indeed 30 years’ worth of experience in creating reliable commercial inflatables that could survive, thrive and can be used anytime of the day.

When you choose an Aquaglide inflatable kayak for any water (river rapids, open sea, tranquil lake), you are guaranteed that the company will not let you down through its kayak. Every inflatable watercraft has been extensively tested for almost any situation, be it for emergencies or just for recreational fun. You know you are getting into a worthy investment if you are with Aquaglide.

Aquaglide Inflatable Kayaks and Standup Paddle Boards
- Aquaglide Columbia XP Inflatable Kayak
One of the most solid and dependable 1-person inflatable kayaks from Aquaglide, the Columbia XP is an excellent choice thanks to its great tracking ability in the water with the ability to glide so effortlessly in the water. Even as this inflatable kayak is classified to be used in easy, flatwater kayaking, you will surely love this kayak overall. There is a Columbia XP 2-person kayak available as well.

The Aquaglide Columbia XP measures 11 feet and 4 inches in length, 36 inches wide and 15 inches in height. It weights about 30 lbs. and can carry a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs. This 1-man inflatable kayak provides more than enough leg room for the paddler, with more than 3 feet of space for your feet and legs. The seat can also be adjusted and repositioned, depending on your height.

Unpacking and assembling the Aquaglide Columbia XP is not that difficult. Even without reading thoroughly the instruction manual, someone should be able to figure out how to assemble this inflatable kayak.

The three individual air chambers make use of Boston valves which allows for easy inflating and deflating. They also have tether which keeps them attached to the kayak, so you will not lose them after finishing the inflation and assembly of the Columbia XP.

The material used for the body is quite durable, consisting of 24-gauge air bladders that make use of PVC material with zippering fabric cover, while the hull makes use of commercial grade Duratex and polyester that is rated at 600 denier.

The kayak’s floor is an inflatable chamber with PVC material dubbed as X-beam technology. With this, the Aquaglide Columbia XP has a hull that tough, rugged and resistant to most water hazards that might puncture and penetrate it.

Accessories that are included with every model of the Aquaglide Columbia XP include integrated fishing rod holders, integrated splash guards, neoprene rail pads, tracking fin, molded transport handles, accessory straps, instruction manual, repair kit, and a custom-tailored bag.
- Aquaglide Blackfoot HB Inflatable Kayak
One of the company’s toughest and most rugged of its inflatable kayak models, the Aquaglide Blackfoot HB is the recommended choice for those who want to go on serious, moderately extreme kayak adventures, or wants to use it as a proper angler kayak for their fishing trips.

The size of this high quality inflatable kayak is significantly more than the average model, while the long waterline and piercing bow design makes it the ideal kayak for long distance trips. Perhaps what really stands out with this Aquaglide inflatable kayak is its durable exterior material, with a proven toughness on the water and against most hazards that will not be scratched nor punctured easily.

The Aquaglide Blackfoot HB angler kayak has a length of 12 feet and 8 inches. Its width measures at 3 feet and 3 inches. This 2-man inflatable kayak (or very spacious 1-man kayak) registers at the weighing scale at 38 lbs. and can carry a maximum load of 600 lbs.

The floor of the kayak is made up of expedition-grade Duratex material that can withstand abrasion and scratching. Outside, the exterior wicks away water, letting simply slide while remaining droplets easily dry up.

Air pressure can be pumped as much 12 psi, thereby giving you a stiff and very solid bottom. Side tubes are made also of Duratex material with a rating of 1000 denier. The hull has a slightly-less durable material, rated as 600G Duratex and 500 denier.

The accessories of the Aquaglide Blackfoot HB are integrated Scotty mounts, adjustable fishing seats, fishing cooler with rod holders and pockets, integrated mounting plates, foot brace, repair kit and carrying bag. Ideal for all your fishing adventures!

It should not be too hard to transport and carry the Aquaglide Blackfoot HB, thanks to its four carrying handles which are conveniently placed on the bow, the stern as well as on both sides. There are also plastic d-rings located on different position of the kayak. You can use these to fasten and secure gear and equipment which you will be bringing along.
- Aquaglide Chinook XP Tandem XL Inflatable Kayak
Another of Aquaglide’s excellent 2-man inflatable kayak models, the Aquaglide Chinook XP Tandem XL is a recreational and all-around kayak that paddlers will surely appreciate. Its versatile design allow you to use in different bodies of water.

Be it for a quiet and relaxed day of paddling in the water or an overnight adventure trip which entails you crossing a lake or a river, the Aquaglide Chinook XP can surely take you there. Ideal for family use since 2-person and a child can easily sit in this kayak.

The Aquaglide Chinook XP Tandem XL has a length of 12 feet and 10 inches. Its width measures 3 feet. It weighs 38 lbs. and can carry a maximum of 550 lbs. The floor and the two sides of this inflatable kayak uses 24-gauge PVC bladders with Aquaglide’s X-beam technology.

The hull is also made of the same durable PVC material and is rated at 600 denier. This material is heat resistant, ideal if you are going to stay outside for extended hours. Finally, the hull is not easily scratched and is quite resilient when going against sharp objects.

Accessories that are included for the Aquaglide Chinook XP tandem XL kayak are integrated fishing rod holders, adjustable bungee deck rigging, saddle seat, molded handles, tracking fin and a custom-tailored bag.

On the water, the inflatable Aquaglide Chinook XP Tandem XL demonstrated good and easy paddling, whether one were to go solo or with another companion.

Just as it was listed and described, the Chinook kayak material proved to be very resistant against most hazards that were encountered in the water. Because the seats can be adjusted, it was relatively easy for you to move them in a place that would give you the best position where you can paddle and row efficiently.

The Aquaglide Chinook XP Tandem XL is designed to be assembled and put together easy and without hassle. That pretty much is the same when it comes to putting away the kayak. Folding up is just as simple.
- Aquaglide Rogue XP Two Inflatable Kayak
Have you ever tried a sit-on-top kayak? This would seem to be likened to the traditional kayaks that were made of bamboo, highly maneuverable but did not offer much seating. Except for the latter, the Aquaglide Rogue XP is one of the company’s inflatable kayak models that is considered as the modern-day version of an open, sit-on-top kayak.

While the open design has some disadvantages such as increased chances of you getting wet from water splashing, it makes up for it with other advantages.

The Aquaglide Rogue XP Two measures 10 feet and 2 inches in length, and a width of 2 feet and 8 inches. When fully assembled, the inflatable kayak weighs at 24 lbs. and can carry a maximum load of 400 lbs.

The materials that were used for the main construction consists of commercial grade Duratex for the hull which has a rating of 600 denier. It also has polyester fabric which is also quite rugged and tough and is even UV resistant.

One of the things that the Aquaglide Rogue XP Two offers as an advantage is its wide outline and open stern transom which gives the kayak amazing stability in the water, while also acting as a means for easy getting in and out of the water.

For this reason, the Rogue XP Two is, besides fishermen, also preferred by swimmers and divers as this allows them to jump into the water with a mere thought! Rescue and emergency personnel are just some of the individuals that can take advantage of this trait offered by the Rogue XP Two.

Accessories that come with every Aquaglide Rogue XP Two include integrated fishing rod holders, a mesh storage pocket, foot rests, a fin system which has a foiled fin with quick-release, rear accessory straps, padded handles, seats with excellent backrest, an instruction manual and a repair kit. There is a storage bag and air pump offered but these accessories are sold separately.
- Aquaglide Yakima Inflatable Kayak
Another Aquaglide inflatable kayak model of the traditional deep cockpit design, the Yakima is an inflatable kayak that can be used in different water types. Because of its good size and ability to carry substantial amount of cargo, this kayak can be used for long-range water adventures.

And if you simply want to spend a quiet day at the lake, paddling with just a few cares and much more relaxation, the Aquaglide Yakima can also give you that.

The Aquaglide Yakima is a 2-person inflatable kayak boat and has a length of 10 feet and 7 inches and a width of 2 feet and 7 inches. It weights almost 15 lbs. and can carry up to 400 lbs. The sitting area is quite deep and spacious, thereby giving its two paddlers a good amount of leg room to be comfortable.

Meanwhile, the high level of the kayak’s sides and deck skirts do more than just make you comfortable. It also keeps you dry for most of the time by keeping away water splashes.

The material of the Aquaglide Yakima consists of K80 PVC material and polyester deck covers which have a rating of 600 denier. Some of the features and accessories that this inflatable kayak offers are its ergonomic seats, a removable spray cover that is completely waterproof, a transport handle, a cockpit drain, accessory strap, a repair kit and Aquaglide’s kayak carrying bag.

Aquaglide offers you a couple of separate accessories which can be quite useful – a high pressure pump, a paddle, and a 12 volt Turbo Electric Pump.
- Aquaglide Waimea 10’ Standup Paddleboard
For those who are fond of SUP boarding, should check out the Aquaglide Waimea 10′ standup paddle board. The Waimea standup paddleboard measures 10 feet in length, 2 feet and 9 inches in width, and depth of at least 5 inches. The hardbody paddle board (it’s not a blow up / inflatable SUP) on its own weighs about 23 lbs. It can carry up to 300 lbs at maximum.

The material is a special combination of an EPS foam core that is guaranteed to be waterproof. The construction of the paddleboard is further strengthened with the use of wood stringers and 2 layers of thick fiberglass that were glued and sealed together with the use of epoxy seal. This gives you a very stable and sturdy paddleboard that also looks amazing!

Accessories that come with the Waimea 10 ft standup paddle board are an adjustable aluminum paddle, surf leash with an ankle strap, and soft rook racks.

What makes Aquaglide so great?

Guaranteed Durability and Toughness

Aquaglide is very much aware of the varying conditions that you will encounter as you go about your water activities. For that reason, the watercraft that you will be using must always be one with the toughness and resilience to withstand whatever it will encounter while in the water.

All Aquaglide kayaks and stand up paddleboards, especially those which are inflatable, make use of materials which are strong and tough and do not break easily. You know you will be safe and secure if you go for a watercraft that is made by Aquaglide.

Feature-Rich Models

Every watercraft made by Aquaglide, be it an inflatable kayak, paddleboard, or any other recreational water sports product is loaded with a slew of great features. From the materials that were used for its construction to functional features like storage compartments and also for maintenance like repair kits, Aquaglide always includes great features which will surely anyone impressed and amazed.

Proven Competence

Aquaglide has been in the watercraft business for so long now. As the technology has evolved and changed with every major innovation, Aquaglide too has evolved and adapted to stay with the changing times.

From new types of materials and fabrication to utilizing modern manufacturing methods, Aquaglide is constantly upgrading and improving itself in order to give you the best watercraft that you need for all your water activities.
July 16, 2017
Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayaks, Canoes, Pontoon Boats and SUP
Sea Eagle is one of the biggest brands of inflatables since they are manufacturing so many different lines, ranging from inflatable kayaks, to canoes, pontoon boats, standup paddle boards and more. Sea Eagle is known for its continued discovery and implementation of new technologies in each product release.

Sea Eagle boats is not only known for its innovativeness, but its wide array of inflatable lineups is also a huge contributing factor to its success. From kayaks, fishing boats, to dinghies, canoes, and stand up paddleboards, this brand definitely has the advantage in terms of variety. If you are interested owning one but do not know where to start, then the reviewed models below will help you out.

A Brief Overview of the Sea Eagle Brand

Link to Sea Eagle inflatable SUPs

Sea Eagle is a family owned business, located east of New York City on Long Island. Their base of operation is nearby Port Jefferson Harbor wherein some of the most high quality yachts are manufactured.

Because the business is so close to the water, experimenting with new builds and how each one fares in an actual setting comes easily to them. To this day, you can still witness employees of Sea Eagle testing out new products in the area. So, when Sea Eagle claims that all their items are proven and tested, you best believe it.

From its beginnings in 1968 up to the present, Sea Eagle boats has never failed to exceed itself with new iterations. The first product Sea Eagle released was a 2-person inflatable kayak named Pyrawa, which was highly received by patrons up until the early 1970s.

Every year new models were released or modified, and with this comes the continued expansion of Sea Eagle’s catalogue. However, it was not only the lineups that grew, but also the entire company itself excelled as a customer-oriented business. Getting good service these days is rare, but you can rely on this one to accommodate you like family.

Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayaks, Canoes, Pontoon Boats Reviews

Hopefully, you now have a better grasp on Sea Eagle’s past and how it strived to become one of the best brands of inflatables to date. Without further delay, let us now go over some popular models under its name, and check which one will suit your style the most.
- Sea Eagle SE370K_P Pro Inflatable Kayak
The Sea Eagle SE370K_P Pro is the pro version of the Sea Eagle 370 inflatable sport kayak. It comes with the default unit seen in the standard deal, but with the addition of several accessories at a significantly cheaper cost. That being said, you can expect the main hull to have similar functions and specifications as the regular one.

To make this review simpler, let us go over what comes with the Pro version first. With this promo, you will receive the following items: two 7 ft. 10 in. AB30 paddles, two deluxe inflatable seats, an A42 foot pump, a carry bag, and a small repair kit.

The Sea Eagle SE370 is ideally made for two paddlers, but with its 295-kg. max weight capacity, you can have your dog accompany you. As for the size of the kayak, it measures 381 cm. long and 86 cm. wide. The unit weighs around 15 kg., which is lightweight enough for you and another person to carry effortlessly.

The SE370K_P model of Sea Eagle is built using 38 mil Polykrylar (K80 PVC) material, resulting to high puncture resistance. Furthermore, the flooring on this kayak uses the brand’s own inflatable I-beam construction, which is not only rigid, but also highly resistant to tears, even with your canine onboard.

In rare instances where one of the air compartments is pierced, you can rest easy that you will still stay afloat. This is because the kayak is equipped with 3 individual air bladders. One is the floor, and the other two are the port and starboard.

Inflating the Sea Eagle SE370K_P kayak takes no time at all, and can be finished in just 8 minutes. Plus, the high frequency welded seams make the inflatable kayak strong yet flexible. Tracking is also optimized even when it is used on class III whitewater, thanks to the 2 skegs on the bottom section of the kayak.
- Sea Eagle SE330 Pro Inflatable Kayak
The Sea Explorer 330 model looks just like the SE370, but with a slightly shorter and lighter build. Specifically, the Sea Eagle SE330 measures 340 cm. in length, and has an overall heft of 12 kg. With its compact build, it can only carry up to 227 kg. of bulk, but it can still hold 2 people just fine.

Much like the previous item, the Sea Eagle SE300 Pro version also comes with the same set of accessories. Moreover, the SE330 is suitable for class III whitewater and below. In contrast to the SE370, the Polykrylar (K80 PVC) material used on this version is 5-mil thinner (33 mil). Nevertheless, both have relatively the same level of durability.

The port, starboard, and floor, accounts for the total number (3) of air chambers in this device. Speaking of floor, this one is also equipped with the 5-tube inflatable I-beam construction. If rigidity and buoyancy is what you are after, the Sea Eagle SE330 inflatable kayak will not disappoint.

To help keep you dry, the kayak uses lashed down inflatable spray skirts. If water splashes in, you can get rid of it via the open and close drain valve. Getting back on the deck after falling overboard is also made easy by climbing via the bow and stern grab line.

Inflating this kayak only takes 6 minutes, give or take. This allows you to get in and out of the water quickly. As for tracking capabilities, the 2 skegs on the bottom of the Se330 kayak will enhance such performance.
- Sea Eagle Razorlite 393RL Inflatable Kayak
The RazorLite™ series of Sea Eagle is all about speed. With that said, each unit under this category sports a narrower build. For the Sea Eagle Razorlite 393RL, it measures 71 cm. in width and 391 cm. in length.

More importantly, the Razorlite products are the world’s first all drop stitch floor inflatable kayaks. This breakthrough engineering makes the kayak so firm that you can even stand on it, similar to a stand up paddleboard. However, you should stick to a sitting position first, especially if you are just starting out.

The person capacity of the Razorlite 393RL model is limited to one. It can bear up to 227 kg. of total weight, which is more than sufficient for one average-sized adult, and a couple of gears. As for the heft of the hull, it weighs 15 kg., which is lightweight for one person to carry.

There are 3 air chambers in the Razorlite 393RL (port, starboard, and floor). The inflatable kayak is manufactured using a combination of 1,100 decitex reinforced fabric, quadruple overlapped seam, and drop stitch material.

Aside from having a narrow and long shape, the kayak also sports unique bow and stern molds with tapered side walls. This design approach improves the tracking performance of the kayak, allowing it to slice through water seamlessly. The large, removable, swept back rear skeg also contributes in this regard.

When cruising at high speeds, there is always a likelihood for water to splash inside the deck. Luckily, there is a spray skirt on both front and rear ends of the kayak to keep you dry, while the 2 open and close drains valves prevent the accumulation of fluid.
- Sea Eagle 385FT FastTrack Inflatable Kayak
The Sea Eagle FastTrack™ series is known for its inflatable ‘NeedleKnife Keel’ design. With it, you will be able to paddle faster and straighter, all without sacrificing balance. Speaking of which, the sleek asymmetrical shape of the 385FT FastTrack model also abates accidental overturns, even with more than one person onboard.

Dimensions-wise, the Sea Eagle 385FT FastTrack measures 381 cm. long and 91 cm. wide. Its max weight capacity is around 288 kg., which is adequate for a group of 3 people. However, the 385FT is more ideal for 2 passengers in order to maximize performance.

Unlike the first three entries, this one has a total of 4 air chambers. This includes the port, starboard, floor, and now the keel. Such amount guarantees that in case one of the tubes is punctured, you will still have several reserves left to keep you floating, so you can safely get back to shore.

Despite having an additional air bladder to inflate, this inflatable kayak can still be assembled in just 7 minutes. The seam is electronically welded and is quadruple overlapped, resulting to high pressure resilience.

In general, the 385FT by Sea Eagle is constructed with 1,100 decitex reinforced fabric. As for the base, a removable high pressure drop stitch floor can be inserted. Surprisingly, this unit is compatible with a 34-lbs. thrust electric motor with a max engine weight of 15 lbs.

However, you have to buy the mount and engine separately. Alternatively, you can avail the Pro motor package deal of the product, which will include these two fixtures, but at a discounted rate. The standard version comes with the following accessories: nylon carry bag, repair kit, and printed instructions.

There are 18 D-rings on the Sea Eagle 385FT FastTrack, which you can use to secure the seats and your gears. Due to its flatter shape, you are advised not to ride the kayak beyond class II whitewater.
- Sea Eagle TC16 Travel Inflatable Canoe
All the products we have discussed thus far are inflatable kayaks. The TC16 Travel, however, is an inflatable canoe, which is currently the only one of its kind among Sea Eagle’s vast collection of inflatables. The biggest advantage it has over solid canoes is portability.

Unlike the traditional variant, the Sea Eagle TC16 can be folded easily, and can even fit in the trunk of a small car. What is even more impressive is that this inflatable canoe is as stable as a regular hard-body canoe. A big factor to such stability is the patented all drop stitch construction of the craft.

The air compartments can be inflated to a max pressure of 10 psi. In terms of quantity, there are 3 bladders in total (port, starboard, and floor). The main fabric used here is a 1,100 decitex (1000 denier) reinforced material.

With the estimated 488 cm. (16 ft.) length and 97 cm. width of this canoe, it can accommodate 2-3 persons. If you are going to paddle with 3 people aboard, then the ideal weight limit is 363 kg. On the other hand, if there is just the two of you, you can bring some gears, up to 415 kg. of total load.

Another amazing feature of the Sea Eagle TC16 Travel inflatable canoe is the packaged seats, which also makes use of the drop stitch technology. Each seat has a backrest, which yields long lasting comfort. Additionally, you can adjust the seating arrangement through the 12 D-rings, so that everyone can get ample legroom.

You no longer have to worry about slipping, thanks to the 2 diamond patterned non-slip EVA foam pads on the deck floor. And even though the hull weight is 32 kg., the front and rear carry handles, plus the 2 center carry handles, provide a lot of ways to divide manpower when transporting the TC16 canoe.

If you are experienced enough for a class IV whitewater, the Sea Eagle TC16 (16’) Travel canoe is certainly up for the challenge. The 4 open and close floor drains of the inflatable canoe are also put to great use in such activity, because of all the splashing that will take place.
- Sea Eagle 375FC FoldCat Inflatable Pontoon Boat
The Sea Eagle 375FC FoldCat is yet another type of inflatable that deviates from the majority on this list, because it is an inflatable pontoon boat. It features a patented folding frame design, which has the bracing platforms already attached to the tubes.

This revolutionary design is what allows the product to be rolled and unrolled without much effort, except for detaching the seats and other custom parts. In a conventional framed pontoon boat, you would need to bolt in the separate frames.

The full fabric flooring is also another edge that the 375FC FoldCat possesses over other pontoon boats, which typically come with an open bottom. Its primary function is to prevent your small items from dropping directly in the water.

When completely assembled, this Sea Eagle inflatable pontoon boat will measure 375 cm. long and 137 cm. wide. Such space is optimal for 2 adult-sized humans. The overall load limit is 295 kg., which is perfect for reeling in those big catch, without being weighed down.

Customizability is a huge part of this inflatable boat. You can have it outfitted with a single 360° swivel seat and a pedestal for that perfect solo, standing/sitting fishing experience.

If you like to fish with company, just add another swivel seat to double the fun. You can get a full list of all compatible attachments in Sea Eagle’s catalog.

Rowing the Sea Eagle 375FC FoldCat boat is effortless, thanks to the built-in oarlocks. If you want to take it up a notch, then consider installing a petrol or electric outboard via the available motor mount.
- Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Inflatable Pontoon Boat
There is just something peaceful about fishing on your own. If you are the type of person that finds gratification in such situation, then the Sea Eagle 285 frameless pontoon boat will match you perfectly. Although it is not as fortified as the FoldCat series, it still has optimal stability for one person.

The Sea Eagle 285 sports a U-frame design, which is quite common in frameless pontoons. The floor, however, is raised and made from 1,000 denier polyester fabric. It is strong enough to support an upright position, so you can reel with total efficacy.

Moreover, the elevated floor complements the integrated oarlocks, since you get to row in a much better position. If you are not a fan of manual rowing, then perhaps a motor will do the trick. You can mount a small outboard, up to 3-hp, on the Sea Eagle 285 pontoon boat.

What makes Sea Eagle Kayaks, Canoes and Pontoon Boats so great?
- Unsinkable
All Sea Eagle inflatables are equipped with multiple air chambers, which not only results to large weight capacities, but it makes each unit naturally buoyant.
- Portable
Almost all Sea Eagle boats can be folded small enough to be stored in a car trunk. Plus, the bags that they come with are easy to carry, whenever, wherever.
- Affordable
Aside from retailing at reasonable price ranges, majority of Sea Eagle’s lineups are also obtainable in a variety of packaged deals. This gives you an inexpensive access to various accessories that would otherwise be a lot more expensive if bought individually.
July 13, 2017