I bought this board at the beginning of the spring. I was tired of renting boards and hoping they had them available for when I wanted to go.
I am so glad I bought this SUP board, I have been out at least once a week since I got it. I use the hand pump every time, it takes me less than 10 minutes and yes the gauge doesn't register PSI until it is well inflated, but it does register and it will tell you when you are in the range you need to be. I generally go to 14 PSI. I actually count the pumping up as part of the workout! This gives great sturdiness and I worry less when out of the water and its hot out that the pressure will increase to problematic levels.
I bought the 11ft foot board because I am fairly tall (5'11") as is my partner (6'4") and we have an 80lb dog who loves to come with me on the board. I have done mainly lake paddling on the board, some very still and some with lots of boat wake etc. I find it very manageable in both conditions. Some of the stability issues might also be people being stiff legged, remember to keep a slight bend in the knee when things get a bit rocky! ;) The board is fairly stable, the fin definitely helps with paddling straight, trust me I tried paddling without the fin and it was NOT FUN. LOL. I am also very careful with the fin, I try not to run the fin aground, I put in backwards, so the fin doesn't touch the bottom and I flip it upside down or remove the fin when on land, so it doesn't accidentally get stood on and snap the fin off.
Everything fits in the bag which is great that it's a backpack as well. Sometimes I like a bit of a hike to where I want to put in away from the crowds or if I have to park a bit further away at busy spots. So much easier than trying to lug a kayak like a friend of mine. ;) I deflate my board with the pump and find it is fairly easy to get back in the bag with all the accessories, plus it fits the seat I bought separately.
I also bought a seat that would attach to the D rings and it works great if I don't want to stand or want to take a break and eat lunch. I probably have it on 50% of the time, but as I am spending more time standing, I will probably use the seat less.
The paddle is functional, it might be just a tad short for me as I set it at the max 210cm, and the bulky adjustment area is sort of right where I want my lower hand, so I may invest in a better fitting paddle for next season.
I and my dog love the grippy padding on top, which has held up well for the season no signs of wear or coming apart. I do take really good care of the board, I try to dry it off right away and I never store it in the bag wet.
The only thing I notice is around the inflation valve it looks like the edge is loosening where the plastic and the board meet, there is no evidence of an air leak yet, but I do believe they cover how to fix it in the instructions. So not too worried.
There is a strap for carrying the board while inflated and that is handy as well.
| Manufacturer | Aqua Plus Marina |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 320.04 x 83.82 x 0.1 cm; 9.07 kg |
| Item model number | 320-GRAF-DGRY |
| Size | 10'6"x33"x6" Graffiti D/Grey |
| Included Components | Board, Adjustable aluminium paddle, Voyager ISUP travel backpack, Shoulder Strap, Coiled leash, Waterproof bag, Removable fin, Double Action Pump |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Item Weight | 9.07 kg |
