You could circumnavigate an island with each of these boards. You could have three weeks of fun on holiday just within 200 metres of your swimming spot. Or you could explore all the rivers in Europe.
We tested these 17 complete sets:
- Apatcha Sea 11'6'' x 32.0''
- Fanatic Ray Air Enduro Premium 11'6'' x 31,0''
- Glory Boards Cross Allround 11'0'' x 31,0''
- GTS Cruiser 11'6'' x 32.5''
- I-99 Eco Set 11'6'' x 31,0''
- Indiana Family Pack 11'6'' x 31,0''
- JP-Australia Allround LE 10'8'' x 32,0''
- Lite Venture Fuse 11'6'' x 31.0''
- Makaio Kula Nui V3 Set 11'6'' x 32,0''
- Paddleboard Allround Touring 11'8'' x 32.0''
- Red Paddle Ride 10'8'' x 34,0''
- RRD Air Evo Smart 10'4'' x 34,0''
- Sport Vibrations SV 11'5'' x 31.0''
- Starboard iGO Zen SC 11'2'' x 31+''
- STX Tourer 11'6'' x 32.0''
- Tahe Beach Sup-Yak 11'6'' x 36,0''
- White Water Funtour 11'4'' x 32,0''
(Click to go to the individual rating)
All topics in the test of the 17 complete sets 2022:
Boards forever
These boards between around 10'4'' and 11'6'' are the most versatile "all-rounders" on the SUP market.
Narrow sports tourers over 12 feet long, such as tested in SUP 1/2022They may run a little faster and a little more stable in a straight line, but will be much too long and bulky for children, for example. Such long, narrow boards turn much more slowly and may appear too wobbly in choppy water. Even shorter boards under 10'4'' in length, on the other hand, no longer run straight and require frequent side changes when paddling in order to stay on course. This group, on the other hand, probably contains the most versatile combiners. Boards that are still quite manoeuvrable in the smallest of spaces and can just as easily cover five kilometres in one go. But even with fairly similar key data in this very large test group, there are no outliers, but at least a few specialists.
Roughly speaking, the boards can be divided into two groups:
One is the classic "all-rounder", which, with a little more width, also in the bow, primarily provide stability and safety and are particularly easy to turn. On the other hand, longer, fast tours are not so much the focus. These include Apatcha, RRD, Starboard and the super wide Tahe.
The width formula: With average balancing ability, 31 inch wide boards for adults weighing 65 to 80 kilos usually look quite sporty and agile. Boards with a width of 32 to 33 inches are very versatile and are particularly safe and stable from 34 inches upwards.
There are also boards that are designed to facilitate the paddle flow, usually with slightly narrower bow and stern sections, and thus push themselves to the fore for relaxed to sporty tours. With widths between 31 and 32.5 inches, but above all with very different approaches to how wide the front third is kept, the designers give the board a more sporty feel or more safety in wobbly conditions. The same applies to heavier paddlers or if you simply want a little more stability. This group includes boards ranging from rather agile to very stable: JP, STX, Sport Vibrations, Fanatic, Indiana, Glory boards, I-99, White Water, Lite Venture, Makaio, Paddleboard and GTS.
The right length: For longer tours, boards of at least 11 feet are usually chosen. However, lighter people in this group could still opt for the JP 10'8''. For good manoeuvrability, on the other hand, a board should be under 12 feet long. Boards around 11'6'' are therefore particularly versatile.
Consistently solid quality of the test boards
The bonding on all test boards was very neat and the "shapes" - i.e. the hull forms - were very straight in the water, only the board from RRD is visibly bent on the water. All boards can handle a good 85 kilos of paddler weight and a powerful paddling style perfectly, although the thicker models (usually recognisable by their slightly higher weight) appear particularly solid and firm underfoot. If this is particularly important to you, you should perhaps shortlist the models from GTS, I-99, Indiana, JP, Lite Venture, Makaio, Paddleboard, STX and White Water.
Thick noses for more stability
The wide, somewhat "bulbous" bow shapes such as those from Apatcha, Starboard or Red and RRD provide plenty of space, safety and stability when cruising at a leisurely pace and in smooth water, as well as for typical holiday paddling. If you can't always choose the wind direction and waves on SUP tours, you have to paddle "upwind" from time to time. And on such courses, the wide noses are slowed down a little more, require more power and bring a little more turbulence to the board - which can partially offset the advantage of the particularly high tipping stability in good conditions.
Even the somewhat slimmed-down special models from the sets offered by renowned brands differ only slightly from the standard models when paddling.
Stiffness: No sagging in the test
Thin and saggy "banana boats", as you sometimes see on the water, which have bubbled up onto the lake from lesser-known online sources and threaten to collapse under the weight of the paddler, are definitely not to be found in this selection. However, we would like to divide the boards into three groups in terms of perceived stiffness: Firstly the averagely good standard, then a small shade firmer (Paddleboard, STX, White Water, Indiana, Lite Venture, JP) and the not quite as stiff boards, which don't flex significantly but seem less firm in wavy water (Sport Vibrations, Red, RRD, Starboard).
Paddles for the transition?
The complete board packages we request should offer the best possible value for money. Some brands have special, slightly "slimmed down" boards in their programme, while others put together packages with their usual boards, which are then only cheaper in total due to the overall package than when purchased individually. However, even the "special boards" differed only slightly from the high-quality board lines in terms of riding characteristics.
When it comes to paddles, the differences to very high-quality, lightweight - but also consistently high-priced - paddles, as in our separate paddle test, are significantly greater. Only Fanatic includes a paddle in the set with the Carbon 35, which a demanding touring paddler would also buy "solo". The other paddles are perfect for a quick and affordable start. You can get started right away, get a decent product here in any case and if your paddling tours don't extend to hour-long trips, the paddles will last forever. However, if you are already planning two-hour trips around the lake or regular fitness paddling, the desire for a lighter paddle will probably mature more quickly than you might think. The best paddles come from Fanatic, Glory, Lite Venture, Makaio, Red, RRD, Sport Vibrations, Starboard and STX. The aluminium paddle from Tahe, on the other hand, weighs in at 1116 grams, which is simply too much for the one-kilo weight limit, and I-99 also supplies a "nameless" aluminium paddle with a very simple plug-in connection to the board.
Panniers: Almost all come on wheels
This is where the "experts" argue about what the best packaging looks like. For some, the pack sack cannot be stable enough, solid and equipped with the largest possible wheels. If you can reach your spot via car parks and well-maintained paths, this is certainly a good choice. However, such trollies are quite bulky and are usually not particularly light. The Starboard bag swallows all accessories and rolls well, but you certainly won't want to carry it over long distances. Nobody would think of strapping a Samsonite trolley onto their back.
Some manufacturers have opted for pack sacks that are more suitable for rolling and others for those that are easier to carry. The RRD pannier, for example, is completely unpadded, weighs very little and is very easy to carry on the short journey to the beach. Otherwise, the bag looks very spartan without a zip. Others, such as Whitewater, Glory or STX, also give their roll-less rucksacks a light back padding for slightly longer carrying passages. Otherwise, most sets roll up on more or less large wheels, all with an additional rucksack carrying system.
Further equipment: Fin & Co.
With Red, the fins are firmly glued to the board, while all others mainly rely on the solid US box or the tried and tested sliding fin. In addition to the mostly simple plastic fins, the higher-quality fins from Paddleboard, Indiana, Apatcha and, above all, the classy Fanatic fin stand out from the crowd. Indiana and Paddleboard fit a two-part fin box, which makes itself very small when the board is rolled in, facilitates rolling in and functions absolutely equally well. These two brands also have a special feature for the fin plate: The screw remains fixed in the fin, a special plate on the screw can be inserted directly into the fin box and with two or three turns of a small plastic disc, the fin is securely fixed in place.
Additional carrying handles should not be underestimated, because if you don't always go paddling alone, you will often be carrying the board in pairs. The GTS even has four handles all round so that a loaded board can be carried short distances in a team on river tours. One more speciality tumbles out of Makaio's surprise bag: an additional paddle blade that turns the SUP into a double paddle and a folding seat that can be attached to the board.
THE TEST RESULTS OF THE 17 COMPLETE SETS 2022
Apatcha Sea 11'6'' x 32,0'' - Blood brother from the Indiana tribe
The Apatcha is Indiana's affordable secondary line - and to avoid any tribal feuds, the tasks are clearly divided. The Apatcha is the entry-level all-rounder alongside the more touring-orientated Indiana model in this test. The board offers plenty of surface area on deck and the wide nose gives a subjectively safer feeling when paddling than a very narrow nose section. However, the board actually tips very little. When cruising around at a leisurely pace, you stand very comfortably on the non-slip deck pad with its fine structure - on which you can also take a break to lie down.
The board will probably also convince the occasional paddler with its significantly more favourable overall price. However, if you want to take things a little faster in wavy conditions or on longer tours, you will feel more comfortable with a board like the Indiana. The Apatcha also carries a 90-kilo paddler with ease, but the board is not as firm as its tribal brother, the wide bow brakes more strongly against larger choppy waves and there is a little more turbulence on the board. The paddle (916 grams) works perfectly, seems quite stiff and is well equipped with a twist lock and T-handle. The good fin sits in the super quick-to-fit sliding box.
PLUS: Very favourable, stable, well equipped paddle
Conclusion Apatcha Sea 11'6'' x 32.0'':
Classic all-rounder for lots of paddling fun and relaxed tours.
Technical data Apatcha Sea 11'6'' x 32.0''
- Price: 549 Euro*
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 81.3 cm
- Weight** 10.0 kg
- Volume 318 L
- Other sizes: 10'6'' x 33.0''/12'6'' x 30.0''
- to the website of Apatcha SUP
=incl. paddle fibreglass 3-piece.
Fanatic Ray Air Enduro Premium 11'6'' x 31,0'' - Premium sportsbike with extras
Fanatic's premium equipment includes not only the solid construction, which is also reflected in the measured weight (thicker material), but also some features that you won't find anywhere else in this group. The high-quality GRP fin, for example, which is simply pushed into the US box and then clicked into place at the rear with just one hand movement - that's it. The windsurfing option also opens up additional perspectives: a threaded insert is installed directly in front of the carrying handle, into which a mast base can be screwed.
On the water, the board looks quite sporty, with the 31 width and narrow tail it is a little more demanding and not among the most stable, but it is particularly fast on the move. Especially turns where you go to the tail are a bit more demanding than on a wide GTS, for example. But Fanatic seems to be targeting more sporty paddlers and has included the right paddle in the package. At 784 grams, it is not only the lightest paddle in this test, but also comfortable to grip, with a very good adjustment system, stiff and easy to swing. Compared to the other models, this paddle is two classes higher and will accompany you for several seasons.
PLUS: Best paddle, windsurfing option, fast, smart + high quality fin
Conclusion Fanatic Ray Air Enduro Premium 11'6'' x 31,0'':
The Ray Air looks particularly fast, is equipped with exciting extras and offers a good mix of sporty tourer and all-rounder for lighter people.
Technical data Fanatic Ray Air Enduro Premium 11'6'' x 31,0''
- Price: 1149 Euro* >> available here
- Length 350.5 cm
- Width 78.7 cm
- Weight** 10.94 kg
- Volume 299 litres
- Other sizes: 12'0'' x 32.0''/13'6'' x 35.0''
- to the Fanatic website
= incl. C35 paddle 3-piece and leash
Glory Boards Cross Allround 11'0'' x 31,0'' - The glorious three?
In addition to the fresh colour scheme, as the rails are the same as the deck pad, the Glory Boards model also features three fins. These provide good guidance straight ahead and you have the option of only using the short side fins in very shallow passages, e.g. in rivers. However, you can't paddle properly in 15 centimetres of water - because of the paddle. The luggage net is very small, four additional eyelets are for a kayak seat.
On the water, it is a fast, sporty-looking board, similar to the JP board, but perhaps a touch more stable in the water. The board has a slim nose, slightly bent up just above the water surface, which works well in flat water and in smaller waves. The stiffness is good to the usual extent. The paddle (830 grams) is pleasingly light and looks quite high quality with a shaft in a glossy carbon finish (30 per cent carbon content) - although this also makes it less grippy when wet. The shape of the textured plastic handle sits well in the hand, but the rough feel is a matter of taste. Our test paddle had a little play in the lower joint, it could be tighter.
PLUSVery light, sporty and fast, comparatively light paddle with carbon shaft
Conclusion Glory Boards Cross Allround 11'0'' x 31,0'':
The Cross Allround belongs to the group of boards with a lively appearance, with which you can enjoy paddling for longer than just 30 minutes. An attractive paddle is included for the price.
Technical data Glory Boards Cross Allround 11'0'' x 31.0''
- Price: 599 Euro*
- Length 335.0 cm
- Width 78.0 cm
- Weight** 8.82 kg
- Volume 280 litres
- Other sizes: 10'0''/ 12'0''/ 12'6''/ 14'0''
- to the Glory Boards website
= incl. C30 paddle 3-piece.
GTS Cruiser 11'6'' x 32.5'' - Also for the yacht club
With its teak-look pad, the GTS Cruiser in "yacht design" really does evoke maritime associations. You might even be allowed to dock at the Royal Bavarian Yacht Club. What's more, the firm pad is very comfortable to stand on and the board looks particularly firm and solid under the soles. The water position is also solid in wavy conditions, the board is stable, even if you go further back on the board for a turning manoeuvre, for example. The pad extends to the tail and the valve is elegantly covered. In general, the equipment is very generous with additional chafe protection under the bow, four additional carrying handles and a large net.
When paddling, the board offers a good mix of safe good-naturedness, as the bow is still very wide up to the front handles, and yet not an unsportsmanlike feeling. This is because the nose, which narrows towards the front, runs well in flat water, but even when going against the wave, the bow does not slow down, but goes easily over the water. GTS consistently favours the quick-to-fit sliding fin and even offers accessory fins. Unfortunately, the N95 accessory paddle was not yet available for us to test. The rucksack with large wheels is of particularly high quality, fully padded and very nicely sized.
PLUS: Tilt-resistant, load-bearing, top equipment
Conclusion GTS Cruiser 11'6'' x 32.5'':
A solid all-round and touring board with good stability and top equipment.
Technical data GTS Cruiser 11'6'' x 32.5''
- Price: 949 Euro*
- Length 354.0 cm
- Width 82.5 cm
- Weight** 9.54 kg
- Volume 320 litres
- Other size: none
- to the GTS website
= incl. leash, paddle N90 3-pcs.
I-99 Eco Set 11'6'' x 31,0'' - Al dente from Italy
With the set from I-99, the brand of windsurfing legend Cesare Cantagalli, two opposites meet with the board and paddle. The board was fully convincing for the favourable overall price. It feels firm and stiff underfoot and with a width of only 31 inches and a very slim tapered nose, it is a very sporty compact tourer that will also satisfy advanced paddlers. Of course, it is not a stable bathing pontoon, but the 10'6'' x 32'' version is perhaps more interesting. We would see it in the group around the JP board among the more sporty boards. At 10.2 kilos, it is one of the slightly heavier boards, but the thicker choice of material probably ensures a solid feel on land and when paddling.
The board carries the bow quite high - not like a pure flat water board - and thus goes freely over choppy waves against the wind. The net holds the most necessary utensils - even for a half-day trip. The paddle (841 grams) seems subjectively heavier due to the weight distribution. The handle is small "like from a doll's house" and the bottom is a simple aluminium tube. The paddle works, is stiff, but doesn't feel as nice when swinging as the board paddles - this is the contrast mentioned above. The board comes in a well-fitting, fairly lightweight wheeled rucksack.
PLUS: Solid and stiff, sporty ride feel
Conclusion I-99 Eco Set 11'6'' x 31,0'':
A solid and firm looking board for tours even in rough seas for the advanced paddler.
Technical data
- Price: 579 Euro*
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 79.0 cm
- Weight** 10.2 kg
- Volume 325 litres
- Other size: 10'6'' x 32.0'
- to the website of I-99
*= incl. 3-piece aluminium paddle.
Indiana Family Pack 11'6'' x 31,0'' - Family board with touring option
The Indiana board and the paddle board are not only similar in terms of colour and materials, but the boards also feel very similar underfoot on the water. In the test comparison, the Indiana feels firmer and more solid underfoot than average. Presumably the slim nose ensures that waves have no chance of causing any unrest on the board. The narrow tip cuts through the choppy waves really nicely, you make rapid progress and require little paddle pressure. In this respect, the Indiana is slightly ahead of other boards such as the Paddleboard or GTS. On the other hand, it is slightly more tippy in the water.
It seems to be a good idea to slim down the bow more than the tail, because you still find satisfactory stability there when you walk backwards on the board - you hardly go forwards at all. I really liked the split fin box, which makes furling much easier, and the clever fin screw (always fixed to the fin). The sometimes fiddly threading of the plate is no longer necessary. At 967 grams, the paddle with the large, curved blade is no lightweight and provides plenty of propulsion, preferably at a slower stroke rate, according to the motto "torque instead of speed". The T-handle has a good grip and a guide in the vario tube makes it easier to adjust.
PLUS: Solid, sporty and firm, very useful features
Conclusion Indiana Family Pack 11'6'' x 31,0'':
A stiff and firm board with a sporty, light paddle feel.
Technical data Indiana Family Pack 11'6'' x 31.0''
- Price: 929 Euro* >> available here
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 78.7 cm
- Weight** 9.52 kg
- Volume 317 L
- Other sizes: 10'6'' x 32.0'' / 12'0'' x 33.0''
- to the website of Paddleboard
= incl. paddle carbon fibreglass 3-piece.
JP-Australia Allround LE 10'8'' x 32,0'' - Light-Sense
The JP board is "only" 10'8'' long, but looks like a sporty sprinter and is nice and stiff at the same time. The low weight is so impressive in comparison that you keep coming back to it. When carrying it, the two kilos compared to heavier boards make the difference between a board that is "easy to carry" and one that feels really light as a feather.
On the water, this makes for a particularly lively feeling, which is supported by the sporty, slim bow and the slightly higher rocker factor, which also makes the board a little more demanding. There is no sluggish mass when moving sideways, the board simply reacts more agile and faster in every respect (the board is also available in a "thicker" construction, compare on sup-mag.de).
In favour of weight, savings were also made on attachments. The deck pad is somewhat smaller, as is the net, and a handle in the centre has to suffice. The paddle (933 grams) with its well-shaped handle and non-slip shaft sits comfortably in the hand, pushes well, but then seems quite elastic in the shaft for very sporty use. The Vario clamp with straight guide is a rarity among the cheaper packages. The board requires the least power to paddle in this group, but also seems the smallest. The rucksack without wheels is light and unpadded.
PLUSSuper light, stiff, agile, lively
Conclusion JP-Australia Allround LE 10'8'' x 32,0'':
A super light, sporty and agile board, also great for lighter people, which moves forwards quickly and is fast, the paddle is well equipped.
Technical data JP-Australia Allround LE 10'8'' x 32,0''
- Price: 749 Euro* >> available here
- Length 319.0 cm
- Width 81.0 cm
- Weight** 7.78 kg
- Volume 318 L
- Other size: none
- to the JP-Australia website
* incl. GLass nylon paddle 3 pcs.
Lite Venture Fuse 11'6'' x 31,0'' - Elegant to the beach
Lite Venture comes fully equipped with the best quality. Starting with the high-quality, robust, waterproof stowage bag with roll closure (without transport wheels), which also cuts a fine figure as a pannier on the board after transport, through the above-average pump to the details on the board: stainless steel rings, also for a carrying strap, a solid leash. Lite Venture has already won design awards - and rightly so, in our opinion. The board looks extremely classy. But in addition to its looks, the board is also technically very well equipped with very nice handles, stainless steel eyelets and solid material thickness. It also plays in an upmarket league in terms of price, but you get something in return.
The board feels particularly firm underfoot, the deck pad is very structured and provides good grip. With its pointed nose, the Lite Venture feels sporty, the 31 mm width supports this feeling and turns the Fuse into a stable and sporty touring board with all-round qualities. The supplied paddle (935 grams) impresses with a solid, very ergonomic T-handle and a solid blade with plenty of propulsion. The Vario system has a straight guide and the clamp is well rounded. The function is therefore very good, but with the usual high weight. The board costs 785 euros without paddle.
PLUSEquipment, solid, stiff, great packsack, functional paddle
Conclusion Lite Venture Fuse 11'6'' x 31.0'':
A stiff and fast board that is quite sporty in the water with a 31 mm width. Also suitable for longer tours.
Technical data Lite Venture Fuse 11'6'' x 31.0''
- Price: 865 Euro*
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 81.0 cm
- Weight** 10.36 kg
- Volume n.a.
- Other size: 12'6'' x 30.0''
- to the Lite Venture website
= incl. paddle 3-piece, leash
Makaio Kula Nui V3 Set 11'6'' x 32,0'' - Solid tourer with seat option
In the all-round segment, Makaio also relies on a touring shape with sufficient width in the centre. Perhaps this is due to the rather narrow tail, but the board paddles very smoothly. The wooden look - which looks almost real from a distance - may support the solid impression, but even when looking towards the horizon, the board looks objectively more solid than average underfoot. At 10.9 kilos, there is also quite a lot of material inside. Even in choppy water, the board is very stable and the very slim nose glides easily over and through the wave. So even faster, longer tours are fun.
The equipment with soft padded handles, two nets, a wedge-shaped raised deck pad at the end and the attachment option for a kayak seat (which is included along with a second paddle blade) is lavish. This is complemented by the large touring fin and a decent paddle (876 grams). The paddle comes with a modern blade shape, a slightly elastic shaft - like most of the set paddles - but can be paddled both leisurely and very quickly and leaves a very good impression overall. The handle has a very ergonomic shape and is one of the more delicate models.
PLUS: Solid and stiff looking, good equipment, very decent paddle
Conclusion Makaio Kula Nui V3 Set 11'6'' x 32,0':
A stiff and fast, top equipped board, completed with a very decent paddle.
Technical data Makaio Kula Nui V3 Set 11'6'' x 32,0''
- Price: 769 Euro
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 81.0 cm
- Weight** 10.9 kg
- Volume 280 litres
- Other size: none
- to the Makaio website
= incl. kayak seat/SUP kayak paddle fibreglass 3-pcs.
Paddleboard Allround Touring 11'8'' x 32.0'' - all-round carefree package
In addition to the usual accessories such as a really solid leash and a spacious roller rucksack with a large accessory compartment, you will also find a hip belt with a quick-release system for attaching the leash and a waterproof 5-litre pack sack. The board is also equipped with every conceivable ingredient. The fin box is designed in two parts for easier rolling, the fin screw does not have to be threaded into the box, but remains attached to the fin with a screw and is simply inserted and tightened. Additional PVC reinforcement straps on the top and bottom ensure a particularly stiff and taut feeling on the board.
And it lives up to its name when paddling. A decent width, even in front of and behind the standing area, stabilises the board very nicely, even two steps backwards do not immediately turn into a trembling party, the board offers stable safety even then. The elegantly shaped nose lies just above the water and cuts smoothly through oncoming waves. Together with the firm hull, this minimises unsteadiness in the board. This means you can also make good progress on longer tours, while the voluminous front section offers plenty of carrying capacity for luggage. The paddle (894 grams) has a good insertion system, an anti-twist lock and a comfortable grip. The large blade likes to paddle at a steady pace.
PLUSStiff, Equipment, Accessories
Conclusion Paddleboard Allround Touring 11'8'' x 32.0'':
Very versatile, stable board for beginners and touring.
Technical data paddle board Allround Touring 11'8'' x 32.0''
- Price: 899 Euro*
- Length 355.0 cm
- Width 81.3 cm
- Weight** 10.34 kg
- Volume 324 L
- Other size: none
- to the website of Paddleboard
= incl. paddle, leash, quick-release strap, 5-litre bag
Red Paddle Ride 10'8'' x 34,0'' - Robust noble board
Red Paddle rolls into the race with a particularly stylish rucksack and the highest price. Not only does the bag look very solid and high quality, the huge double piston pump is also impressive, although it hisses a lot in second gear and increases the overall weight. The short, very robust fins are fixed to the board. This saves assembly time and is helpful in shallow waters. The board, which is only 13 centimetres thick, is made from particularly solid materials and looks extremely robust.
You are noticeably closer to the water, very comfortable on the finely structured pad, which reaches all the way to the stern. Thanks to the large width - even far back and towards the bow - there is a huge amount of space on deck and the board "tips" very little, making it the most stable board in the group after the Tahe. It paddles comfortably in smooth water, the fins hold the track well and the low stance is pleasing. In wavy conditions, the reduced thickness is noticeable, the board absorbs impacts a little more noticeably, it doesn't feel as stiff as the 6-inch boards. At 85 kilos it is still easy to paddle, but we wouldn't necessarily recommend it to a 100-kilo paddler. The paddle (871 grams) is the highest quality of the group: stiff, with an acceptable weight, good clamps, straightness in the adjustment system and a very comfortable carbon grip.
PLUS: Very solid, top equipment, particularly tilt-resistant
Conclusion Red Paddle Ride 10'8'' x 34,0'':
A particularly solid board with very good tipping stability and the best equipment.
Technical data Red Paddle Ride 10'8'' x 34,0''
- Price: 1249 Euro* >> available here
- Length 329.0 cm
- Width 86.4 cm
- Weight** 11.0 kg
- Volume 270 litres
- Other sizes: 9'8'' x 31.0'' / 10'6'' x 32.0''
- to the website of Red Equipment
= incl. hybrid nylon paddle 3-piece, leash
RRD Air Evo Smart 10'4'' x 34,0'' - Grey Eminence
With a generous 34 mm width and a round, wide bow, the RRD offers space for the (small) family. The board is a good fun and holiday board for the moderate action radius around your own beach. The relatively low weight for a board of this width ensures that children can also carry it well, and it also turns very easily on the water. This is mainly due to the fact that it is more curved in the water and the bow and stern hardly slow down when turning. This - and the slightly softer feel under the feet of heavier paddlers and in wavy conditions - means that it is not our first choice for longer tours.
The deck pad is pragmatically reduced to the standing area when paddling, with only an additional non-slip film stuck to the back of the deck. This also provides a good grip during turns when one foot is far back on the board. The scope of delivery includes a buoyancy chamber and a small waterproof bag with the repair kit, which is also useful for other purposes. The paddle (895 grams) is nice and stiff, has an ergonomic, large handle, a straight guide in the Vario system and also allows sporty, powerful paddling without the shaft bending away like a stick of liquorice. It sticks in well and comes out well. The pack sack is a large bag into which the board is stuffed from above. Accessories barely fit inside.
PLUS: Good paddle, life buoy included, stable, lots of space, very light
Conclusion RRD Air Evo Smart 10'4'' x 34,0'':
A particularly manoeuvrable board with very good tipping stability. But not a touring tip.
Technical data RRD Air Evo Smart 10'4'' x 34,0''
- Price: 688 Euro* >> available here
- Length 315.0 cm
- Width 86.4 cm
- Weight** 9.16 kg
- Volume 275 litres
- Other size: none
- to the website of Roberto Ricci Designs
* = incl. paddle Easy safety buoy
Sport Vibrations SV 11'5'' x 31.0'' - Lightweight double pack
Weighing just over eight kilos, the board makes the journey to the beach fly by and accelerates really quickly with the first paddle strokes. The soft, grippy cover extends far to the rear. This gives the board a sporty, agile feel, especially in reasonably smooth water, and it takes the waves a little more in higher swell. Then it also seems a little less stiff than the more solid companions. Vibrations in the board subside a shade later, in this respect more mass as a damper usually has a positive effect.
As an all-rounder, the board is in the middle of the field: half sporty, half easy to paddle, certainly not the most stable. Due to the low board weight, it should suit lighter people particularly well - we would advise very heavy paddlers who spend a lot of time travelling in choppy waters to choose a board that is perhaps less light but firmer. It also has one of the best paddles. At 876 grams, it is only just behind the lightest, it is not the stiffest, but it is perfectly acceptable and a carbon fibre handle with a very comfortable carbon grip ensures a classy look and the best feel. The paddle even has an anti-twist device. The thin blade also allows faster paddling frequencies and comes out of the water easily after the pull phase.
PLUS: Sporty paddle feeling, very light, very good paddle
Conclusion Sport Vibrations SV 11'5'' x 31.0'':
Very light, quite sporty board with matching paddle.
Technical data Sport Vibrations SV 11'5'' x 31.0''
- Price: 695 Euro*
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 79.0 cm
- Weight** 8.24 kg
- Volume 310 L
- Other sizes: 10'5'' x 31.0'' / 12'6'' x 31.0''
- to the Sport Vibrations website
= incl. CarbonComp paddle 3-piece, leash
Starboard iGO Zen SC 11'2'' x 31+'' - Thin and wide throughout
At Starboard, the ZEN line is the more affordable alternative to the high-end models. The ZEN models are also available in a reduced thickness of 5.5 inches and the so-called "linear dropstitch", a slightly different internal construction - like our test board. In comparison, the board doesn't have the same direct and stiff feel as the thicker models in the test field, with more movement noticeable throughout the board, especially against the waves. The lower height reduces the "tree trunk effect" and the standing position closer to the water is often perceived as comfortable, as with hardboards, which are generally not as thick as iSUPs.
The fact that the board hardly narrows at all towards the front also contributes to tipping stability. However, this means that the paddle has to be inserted noticeably further to the side, which is not conducive to optimum paddle control. The board is stable in the water when you go to the stern, where a wedge-shaped "kick pad" provides a good grip. Two stainless steel rings on the side allow a carrying strap to be attached. The paddle (928 grams) gives little cause for complaint in this class and has the comfortable grip shape of all Starboard paddles. The roll bag is high quality, light and very spacious, the leash is rather minimalist.
PLUS: Tippable, light, reduced thickness for very light paddlers, good paddle
Conclusion Starboard iGO Zen SC 11'2'' x 31+'':
An all-round fun board, but less suitable for long tours or heavy paddlers.
Technical data Starboard iGO Zen SC 11'2'' x 31+''
- Price: 699 Euro* >> available here
- Length 340.40 cm
- Width 78.7 cm
- Weight** 8.94 kg
- Volume 319 L
- Other sizes: 10'8'' x 33.0''/12'6'' x 30.0''
- to the Starboard website
= incl. fibreglass paddle 3-piece.
STX Tourer 11'6'' x 32.0'' - STX with full equipment
Are you more likely to get the right of way with the pointed nose? The outline with the particularly slim "nose" certainly makes a sleek, sporty impression. The STX is not called a "tourer" for nothing, a bathing island looks different, but the width in the centre provides at least a decent degree of stability. The board gives a very direct, stiff feeling under the soles, the nose is slightly curved upwards and, depending on the stance position, can be trimmed beautifully free or - loaded a foot length further forwards - with more board length in the water.
The board is fun on tour, whether in flat water, against or with the waves. With the waves, the sharp tear-off edge at the rear - a sophisticated feature - should also ensure improved speed down small waves. The luggage can be easily stowed under two small nets. The sliding fin is practical and quick to fit. The pad has a soft and grippy feel and is wedge-shaped at the rear end for a secure stance in tight pivot turns (see also the riding technique in this issue). The backpack without wheels is light, padded at the back and easy to load. The paddle (883 grams) also makes a very good impression in comparison with a comfortable grip, stiff enough and with an appealing, high-quality look.
PLUSStiff, sporty, good equipment, good paddle
Conclusion STX Tourer 11'6'' x 32.0'':
Here comes a very solid package at a favourable price. The board is a top-equipped, sporty mini-tourer with all-round suitability for lighter people, the paddle is functional.
Technical data STX Tourer 11'6'' x 32.0''
- Price: 699 Euro*
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 81.3 cm
- Weight** 8.92 kg
- Volume 270 litres
- Other sizes: 12'6'' x 32.0''
- to the STX website
= incl. composite paddle 3-piece, leash
Tahe Beach Sup-Yak 11'6'' x 36,0'' - The Blue Wonder
With a width of 36 inches and a completely continuous deck pad, the SUP-Yak offers a usable "landing area" like an aircraft carrier. You might think that the board has the same acceleration and turning circle, but this is completely deceptive. On board, you experience a "blue wonder". Despite the 36 mm width, which ensures enormous stability against tipping (and good rigidity), the elegantly cut nose section moves smoothly over the water and the board accelerates quickly, whereas there are much narrower boards that are not as smooth to paddle against the wave. The board is wide all the way to the back, you can easily turn backwards and anyone who can't read the "36" lettering from a distance will think you're a gifted master of turning. Because the board turns - because it lifts slightly at the front but doesn't sink in at the back - much more stable and faster than the narrow boards.
The load capacity is enormous; we tested it for three people weighing a total of 200 kilos. Kayak seats can be attached flexibly thanks to the all-round strap. The paddle, made from assembled aluminium tubing (1116 grams), is very stiff, the blade works well in the water and the handle is ergonomic in the hand - it's just really really heavy and probably won't be your last paddle.
PLUS: Super stable, huge (lying) surface, easy to paddle, amazingly fast
Conclusion Tahe Beach Sup-Yak 11'6'' x 36,0'':
A board that will probably be a lot of fun for many people who are not aiming for a sporty 5-kilometre tour, but want to cruise safely and relaxed.
Technical data Tahe Beach Sup-Yak 11'6'' x 36,0''
- Price:679 Euro* >> available here
- Length 350.0 cm
- Width 91.0 cm
- Weight** 10.25 kg
- Volume 375 litres
- Other size: 10'6'' x 34,0''
- to the Choppy Water website
= incl. paddle 3-piece, leash
White Water Funtour 11'4'' x 32,0'' - White Water - not only for white water
With the White Water, you shouldn't be put off by the "packaging", because the surprise comes after unpacking. The transport bag is quite thin, very light and quite "basic" with no wheels, outer pockets or other features. However, if you usually carry your board the last bit anyway and don't roll it - which experience shows is usually the case - you'll be happier with the lightweight rucksack than with a heavy monster of a roller.
This is a board with a relatively simple design, but with a very solid-looking structure. The 11'4'' was very fast on our test rides, the slightly rounded bow is narrow enough to give it a sporty feel without being too wobbly. The board also performs well against wind and waves. It is very stable in the water. The 32 mm width also contributes to this, which should be a good compromise for most paddlers. The board feels firm underfoot, gives a stiff feeling and also absorbs shocks well when travelling against waves. The paddle (889 grams) has a nice grip (which still feels a bit like plastic at first contact, but then the shape fits well in the hand), a matt GRP shaft and is very comfortable to paddle. Nice big pad!
PLUSDirect, firm feel, fast progress, light, neat paddle.
Conclusion White Water Funtour 11'4'' x 32,0'':
A very nice all-rounder with a sporty feel and good touring suitability - with a small luggage requirement.
Technical data White Water Funtour 11'4'' x 32,0''
- Price: 699 Euro* >> available here
- Length 345.0 cm
- Width 81.3 cm
- Weight** 8.96 kg
- Volume 310 litres
- Other size: none
- to the White Water website
= incl. carbon 20% nylon paddle, 3-piece, leash
