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Inflatable Touring Test 2021 / SUPboarder PRO Head to Head

In this SUPboarder PRO head to head test we put 22 inflatable touring boards priced between £469 and £1199 up against each other. Whether you’re looking to buy your first touring board, or are an experienced SUP tourer already, this mega test is one to watch! Carried out by our team of 8 expert testers, […]

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Helen Pullen
Helen Pullen
2 years ago

I was so excited to see this, thank you for putting such a lot of effort and work into putting this together!

Corey Jones
Corey Jones
2 years ago

Hey gang! Thanks for the massive effort in putting this test together. Very interesting results and kudos for calling it as you saw it, regardless of the prominence of the brand being reviewed. Nice to see honest feedback for end users and hopefully the manufacturers will listen closely as well. I echo your emphasis on handle placement; I got an RPC Tandem Voyager this year and the poor centre handle placement, not the weight, makes it impossible to carry solo.

Keep up the great work!

Giles
2 years ago

Simply excellent and this is a monumental amount of work to put together – The hard copy reports are really interesting too. Many congratulations to you all. Really good feedback for all the manufacturers – even Red. We understand that only one board per manufacturer that could make it onto the 3 categories. A good and tough decision, and perhaps as interesting to see what the manufacturers, actually sent you! Intriguing comments re the build type, quality, and dimensions/weights (!) I personally like the water flow/ride of the noses of Itwit 13′ and 12’6 Gladiator, (their Jello fin would have… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Giles

Thanks for the kind words Giles. No doubt it can be improved but a really good base level to judge other iSUP test from!
I get you about the Quroc and Gladiator boards. It would be amazing to have a board shape and design of Gladiator or Starboard with deck fittings and package of Quroc!

Jenee Benning
2 years ago

Hi, I’m curious as to why you never include the Blackfin model v in any of your reviews? If you, I apologise, I must have missed it in my searches.

Andrew Stotesbury
Andrew Stotesbury
2 years ago

An observation or two. 1. 6 male and 2 female testers. From my experience SUP touring is perhaps more 50-50 . 2. The technical comparison sheet is really good data. Eg: The range in weight of boards is quite telling. It really does help find a board to suit your personal circumstances and expectations

Shilpa Rasaiah
Shilpa Rasaiah
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Will this test should be 50:50 representation-of all paddle sports women are really enthusiastic about SUP. Not sure what level of paddling experience you’re looking for but I’d definitely be up for being on the testing panel! I’ve watched that many of your reviews!

Pete Marsden
Pete Marsden
2 years ago

As I said on youtube, disappointed to see no O’Shea board, but hey, if they don’t get back to you, understandable. Interesting watch none the less, good work guys.

Daniel Tatum
Daniel Tatum
2 years ago

This is true of all your videos, but especially impressive in this one due to the sheer amount of footage you have, is how well it’s edited in terms of showing clips of exactly what you’re talking about, exactly when you’re talking about it. An example is when you show the nose of the Itiwit board plowing through the water when standing in the middle, and then the rider taking a hop back and seeing the nose lift a bit – very well done.

Jim Perks
Jim Perks
2 years ago

very interesting about the long handle on the itiwit.. I have a Starboard 12’6″ and notice that it’s a pain to balance when lifted with anything more than the bare minimum stowed on the front. Well thought itiwit!!

Simon Gagnon
Simon Gagnon
2 years ago
Question: If we exclude the price, which SUP do you recommend between the Starboard and the Honu that you tested in your video?

I want the fastest SUP and also the one that feels fastest.

Overnight capacity is OK for me, not need more.

5'9, 175 lbs, strong paddler

I own the 2021 Voyager and find it a bit boring.

Thanks! !
Simon Gagnon
Simon Gagnon
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Ok Thanks ! It’s strange that on US/Canada website its 12’6 and EU it’s 12’9.

jonathan Hebert
jonathan Hebert
2 years ago
Reply to  Simon Gagnon

If you want a fast sup and you only need front bungees, what about the starboard airline 14×26?
I have used this as my main touring board .. well .. everything board.
But it depends where you’ll be touring as this is more flat water based.

That said , the Honu was a really Really nice board to ride

Simon Gagnon
Simon Gagnon
2 years ago

Thank you for your comment ! It's interesting because there is a used 14x26 airline for sale in my area. I wonder if the cable is easy to use. I am on open lakes a lot so I need a board that performs really well in rough water. What about the airline? I still believe the Voyager 13'2 is good for the choppy with its V Hull. Despite everything, I managed to go fast with the Voyager but I noticed that my weaker friends are just as fast with cheaper boards. I would have liked the test to show that… Read more »

Last edited 2 years ago by Simon Gagnon
Jason Marcinski
Jason Marcinski
2 years ago

Ahh The Voyager!! Those fins! I was shopping for a new iSUP this season and really wanted to try out the new Voyager but decided to go with the 11’ Sport for a day tourer instead (better in the cross wind!) but. Mainly because of those darn twin fins! But I was really as surprised as you all about the Voyeger’s new bow. What a shame in a way… Thanks for doing this test it was truly epic!

Magnus
Magnus
2 years ago

I have a 2018 Sport 11’ and love it. This summer I wanted a bigger touring board and went with the Voyager 13.2’. IMHO it tracks really well and glides in a way it takes me longer with less effort. One of the first things I liked was how the bow cuts through flat water. But yeah. Quite a bit slower to turn than the Sport but didn’t really expect it not to. Perhaps shorter fins is a fix. But I don’t mind. Went on a rather windy and choppy two days trip last weekend, fully packed front and rear… Read more »

Jameshyde
Jameshyde
2 years ago

Brilliant review, great to see so many brands in one place.
With the boards that pump up above 20 PSI, how have you found lighter riders ability to pump the boards up to this pressure with just a hand pump?

EDMOND Rodrigue
EDMOND Rodrigue
2 years ago

It’s a good Idea this test ! I wish to receive the result or tell me how to take that! Thanks

Kamil Mytnik
Kamil Mytnik
2 years ago

Fantastic work guys! Just a couple things; 1) The Aquatone Flame does come in a 11’6′ size (ratings chart says otherwise). 2) The Aztron Neptune also comes in smaller sizes just with different names and designs (Urono at 11’6″ and Terra at 10’6″).

One question though; I’m considering the Aztron Urono but the weight of it is rather high being a double layer fused board AND double chambered… does the weight affect speed?

Fliss Elsom-Cook
Fliss Elsom-Cook
2 years ago

This test is so helpful. I have a Starboard Tikhine and was thinking of going for a different brand for a change, but the Starboard tourer seems to have everything I need. I am 5’2″ and 75kg, would the DSC 11.6 be comparable in terms of performance, and would it be best to go for the shorter board considering my height?
Thanks.
Fliss

philwangsd
philwangsd
2 years ago

Fantastic review!

Can you also test iSUP for performance/race board from the top brands such as Starboard, SIC, and Naish in the near future?

Steve Mercer
Steve Mercer
2 years ago

Great info! We’ll done, Will and team! I just purchased the Thurso Expedition earlier this summer and have mixed feelings about it. Kind of wished I knew you guys were doing this video before buying or maybe waited until their 12’6”comes out. While it’s been stable to paddle and overall a good package it does feel a bit sluggish and heavy on the water. I think your reviewers hit the nose on their thoughts. I’m very curious how you think the Starboard 12’6” Zen model would’ve scored in the overnight category?

Steve Mercer
Steve Mercer
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

I’m 185lbs (84kg?). I was also a bit disappointed the Thurso measures wider than their stated 30”. But for now it’s a good workout and gets me where I want to go. I’m not an overnight tourer but appreciate the added handles and bungees that the day touring boards lack. Thanks again for all your insights!

Stefan Vogel
Stefan Vogel
2 years ago

Nice test, thanks a lot for putting this together! am currently getting rid of my Bluefin 10″8 (which I am a bit disappointed about) and replacing it with a tourer. Actually the itiwit is on top of my list. First because it is only 450€ in Germany (so your value rating is a bit off for me ;)) and the fact that I dont have a paddle in the package (they are usually crap anyway), I already have another. I was looking at Starboard a bit, but don’t see why I would pay more than twice the money for not… Read more »

Bram Veldhuisen
Bram Veldhuisen
2 years ago

Graet test! Good work. And thanks for sharing the data and tables. Interesting to see not only how you came to your conclusion, but also very useful to come to my own.

Kamil Mytnik
Kamil Mytnik
2 years ago

Hey guys, your review shows that the Aquatone Flame and Aztron Neptune were both measured at 33″ wide. These boards also come in 11’6″ size variants… if you have these boards on hand, can you confirm if the smaller sizes also come in at 33″ instead of the manufacturer stated 32″ width? Thanks!

Marek
Marek
2 years ago

how can we see this review? other than the 1 min video and 2 commercial banners, I have nothing else on this site.

Stephanie Breis
Stephanie Breis
2 years ago

Fantastic review! I was very excited to watch this video and hear expert reviews. I was a little disappointed that the irocker blackfin model V didn’t make the list to review. I have this board, and find it absolutely amazing and fast. 12’6” x 32” x 6” . It would be interesting to hear your professional thoughts on this board in comparison to some of these others. I also noted there weren’t any Bote models in this review also. Thank you and overall great review!

Anthony Debesne
Anthony Debesne
2 years ago

Amazing work guys. I was really surprised by the findings on the nose shape in choppy waters. Would have been interesting to see if the results are the same in confused seas with wind and swell. Do you think the 14′ Starboard DDC will still cope well in those conditions ? Planning a round trip of Corsica and the double chamber would allow me to paddle further than the 300 m limit fixed by french laws. Can’t take my 14ft hard board on the plane with me unfortunately.

Beau Nixon
Editor
2 years ago

Hi Anthony. We would say the DDC has added stiffness because of the double chamber, so we’d expect some benefits and added performance for the conditions you describe – especially with the nose shape over and through bumps. Paddling around Corsica sounds great! Keep us posted on how you do.

Barry Edwards
Barry Edwards
2 years ago

No McConks boards in the test ?

Beau Nixon
Editor
2 years ago
Reply to  Barry Edwards

Hi Barry. We do reach out to all brands hoping they want to be involved. Some pass up the opportunity and others just don’t have the stock available. Hoping to have a lot more brands jumping into the tests in the future.

Marek Wypych
Marek Wypych
2 years ago

Great job! I really appreciate the video and learned a lot from it. Thank you! And if I may have a question. I am looking for a multi-day (mostly rivers and lakes) touring board for my wife (~70kg). The board should be relatively light and, if possible, good looking 🙂 First thought was a Starboard Tikhine Wave (12.6 x 30) but on their website I am unable to find what the construction is and how stiff it is, and if it could go with the a front handle (honestly I’m getting totally lost at the Starboard website). Would you recommend… Read more »

Marek Wypych
Marek Wypych
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Thank you! I’d be grateful for any further information on the Tikhine Wave stiffness and construction.
Have you had any experience with gluing additional handles to the iSUPs. I saw that it is possible, but do not know how durable it is as compared to the factory handles. But presumably I would consider adding a front handle to the Tikhine if we buy one.
Best
Marek

Last edited 2 years ago by Marek Wypych
Marek Wypych
Marek Wypych
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Great, thank you!

Marek Wypych
Marek Wypych
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Thank you!

Ryan McAndrew
Ryan McAndrew
2 years ago

Thanks for the amazing video! I love all the tables. I’m looking for a touring iSUP for use in the San Francisco Bay area. So, it has to be able to cut through the wind and the chop. Which do you think would work best: Starboard Zen Touring SC, STX Tourer, Itiwit 13′, or Bluefin Sprint (non-carbon)? Day trip only. Rider weight 72 kg. You guys rock!

Ryan McAndrew
Ryan McAndrew
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

I’m about 72 kg.

Nicolas Cottaris
Nicolas Cottaris
6 months ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Not sure what you mean by “not great stiffness for either board”. Both have a 10mm deflection!

Nicolas Cottaris
Nicolas Cottaris
6 months ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Thanks for clarifying Will. In general what do you think of the ITIWIT X500? Without carbon rails and without stringers and it is the second stiffest board you tested. Does this indicate a really good construction? I am little concerned because of the lack of thermally welded edges, but other than that it seems like a very high quality board, no?

Annette Wittmann
Annette Wittmann
2 years ago

concerning the voyager. What do you think would happen if you removed the two fin boxes and replaced them with a new fin box in the middle? Is that possible? Cheers!

Tim Gray
Tim Gray
2 years ago

Great article/ Test Im digging into the data to see what else I can learn. I would be interested to know if you measured the thickness of the boards? I’m guessing they are all sold as 6 inch thick but there maybe some variation?

Dean Hopkins
Dean Hopkins
2 years ago

How do I get to see the full review video as I can’t seem to find it

Jonas Palm
Jonas Palm
2 years ago

I cant find the full video. Started to Watch it 5 min ago But cant find it again. Only the ”trailer” so annoying

Jonas Palm
2 years ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Thanks Will!
I Will Do that and I must say the way You guys are Doing videos are great.
Cheers/ Jonas

Ryan Khademi
Ryan Khademi
2 years ago

Thank you for all this testing, I am looking to upgrade from an all-rounder to a tourer and I think I’m set on the Starboard Touring – but I’m unsure about the best size and construction to get. I’m 5’8 at 65-70kg so a single chamber is sufficient. The 12’6 Zen is only £650 and 30″ wide. Any experience with this board and its performance compared to the Deluxe single-chamber models? If I went deluxe then I have the option of 30″ or 28″, I’m wondering if 28″ might be better for my size but the impression I got is… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Ryan Khademi

Hi Ryan good question and comment. The zen would work well for you and its a very light weight board too. But if you want to carry a bit more weight and gear, then going for the DSC would be the best option. But if you just want to get into light touring the Zen would be fine. Width wise, its again comes down to gear for me, If you are going to paddle this board in lots of conditions with a gear then the 30 wide is the one, but if you just want to paddle faster and do… Read more »

Michael Lowry
Michael Lowry
2 years ago

Why was the jobe touring boards not tested?

Reuben Ellis
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Michael Lowry

Im pretty sure they were asked to be apart of it. I will check and get back to you about that one.

Ryan
Ryan
2 years ago

Hi,
When I try to watch this video it comes up with an error message “oops, try watching this video on YouTube Kids.” On a black screen. Has this video been taken down?

Firdaus Sani
Firdaus Sani
2 years ago

I have been eyeing a touring Isup for a long time now. Been using a 10’6″ x 32″ and it’s sluggish and slow. Always left behind by a mile from the group. Been looking at the starboard and also Red Paddle Co brand since the majority are using the paddle co board but from where i am, it is too expensive. Recently went to a Decathlon store and their adventure isup caught my eye and remembered you guys reviewed the old 12’6″ model. The deflection test for that board was 18mm and in this video i was shocked and surprised… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Firdaus Sani

Hey Firdaus, Im not sure if we have one coming to us at the moment, so don’t hold out for our review. But Like I said in your other comment. I feel the 14′ would be a good buy and super stiff for sure. I feel if you can get hold of one and for the price it would be a good move. I don’t think you will be disappointed. Thanks Attached my other response below for others to read. Hi Firdaus, Yes getting hold of SUPs is getting harder at the moment. The 14′ itiwit I feel will be… Read more »

Jason
Jason
2 years ago

Hi, I have been waiting for a comparison like this, thank you. However, as someone weighing in at 265lbs wanting to do some overnight touring , I didn’t catch a single board tested that could handle myself and overnight gear. Did I miss it? I know the Blackfin V has a capacity over 400lbs. Are there others you have or will test with higher capacities? I can’t imagine I am the only paddler with this need. Thanks.

Jason
Jason
1 year ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Hi Will, thanks for the reply. I presently use an Atoll. It is great overall but I would like something faster, more performance driven. I appreciate the 32” width and would like to stick with that level of stability. I like the Look of the Blackfin V but was disappointed with the fin system.

Amzar
Amzar
2 years ago

hello, I am from Malaysia, I am using Starbord 12.6 race inflatable.
Some of my friends looking for good race board but not high class(not so expensive).
Is there any recommend brand or board of 12.6 Inflatable race?
better use heat fusion technology if can, Because Malaysia is too hot then many inflatable board made hole or bursted.
I really love this test, but not details for racing board.
Thank you.

Reuben Ellis
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Amzar

Hi Amzar , We are looking into doing a race fast touring board test for 2022. But I guess it really comes down to what brands you can get out in Malaysia. Brands like Gladiator in Elite and JP Australia are top boards but a little cheaper. Many cheaper brands say that they are using ‘Fusion tech’ But I don’t believe all of them! Let me know what brands you find near you?

Amzar
Amzar
2 years ago
Reply to  Reuben Ellis

Thank you for Replay. In Malaysia, there is no big SUP company because market is small. Just start getting interested for water sports including SUP. So everyone buy from Net shop who can deal from Over sea. Some of Big name as starboard give up Malaysian market already… I start coaching one of canoe & SUP team in KL from last month(So far racing SUP team is only our team in Malaysia.) So looking for good inflatable racing boards I can Deal. I know hard borad is nomal for Racing, But I would like to start with inflatables due to… Read more »

Dima
Dima
1 year ago

Hello guys! Awesome job! I wonder, have you seen such inflatable sup board as Jobe, Bote, Molokai, Aqua Inc? And what you think about them? 

Beau Nixon
Editor
1 year ago
Reply to  Dima

Hi, thanks for the comment.
We have heard of these brands and we always reach out to the whole industry to be included in these tests. Unfortunately, not all brands want to be included. It’s hard for us to comment on these boards we haven’t tested, but Jobe, Bote and Aqua Inc have a good line up equipment and we’ve heard good reviews from customers. Molokai seem to have a small offering of iSUPs but we haven’t heard any feedback from consumers yet. Hope this helps.

Martin Kroumov
Martin Kroumov
1 year ago

Hi there, Great job, your 2022 touring sup test is just amazing; CONGRATS!!! I would like to suggest you to contact Redwood SUP; my girlfriend has a touring one, she is super happy with it and I believe it’s really good quality for a super competitive price. The guys from the brand are super cool and available; I believe they will be happy to send you a board for a test. PS. I have the Itiwit 13″ and I agree 100% with your comments about it: not perfect but I love the way it glides + a got comment on… Read more »

Martin Kroumov
Martin Kroumov
1 year ago
Reply to  Will Rogers

Hi Will,
I’m surprised to be honest…such a pity!? Not confident in their products (I don’t think so but…)? I’ll drop them a message, you never know 😉
Keep paddling 🙂

Last edited 1 year ago by Martin Kroumov
Eldars Markovs
Eldars Markovs
1 year ago

Hello. Earlier you’re tested ITIWIT 500 TOURING 12’6 x 29′(2019-2020). And it deflection test result at 17PSI was: 18mm.

At this test ITIWIT TOURING ADVENTURE 13’0″x31″ (2021) it deflection test at 17PSI was: 10mm.
Why is so big difference?
Is size difference can be the factor, or itiwit sup became more stiffness?

Eldars Markovs
Eldars Markovs
1 year ago

Hello. Is Itiwit Touring/x500 is the same sup?
Is it glued or laminated?
Is it has single layer construction on not?
Is it has stringer (for extra stiffness) or not?
Thank you.

Andrew Downing
Andrew Downing
1 year ago

This is the reason I joined (ohh…. and the 2022 tests!!! 😉 ) Anyway I think you’ve probably helped as my paddling has definitely evolved (as has my understanding of what I’m looking for since I bought my first board)!! I’m a larger UK guy (100Kg) but currently riding a 2017 Red 12’6×27 race board. Whilst the board is fairly stiff and fast, it’s also a little less stable than can make for a relaxing day when you’re not quite as focussed!!! Most (95%) of my paddling is day touring on the river (or some lakes). Although this time of… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
1 year ago
Reply to  Andrew Downing

Hey Andrew , glad you have found the test useful.
TBH there are few boards in that test that would suit you. The Honu is definitely one of them.
The other boards could be the Starboard Touring DDC, Fit Ocean and the Quroc.
The Starboard and the fit ocean have the best 2 nose shapes on test, which work well in chop. This is one of the only things that Honu and Quroc could improve on.
Thanks ,any help ?

Andrew Downing
Andrew Downing
1 year ago
Reply to  Reuben Ellis

Thank you – time to play “hunt the demo board” for the 4 boards!

Reuben Ellis
Admin
1 year ago
Reply to  Andrew Downing

yeeee, good luck

Brett Caruthers
Brett Caruthers
1 year ago

Great comparison on the boards. Is the warranty period compared across the brands? I apologize if it is, but I couldn’t find it if it is compared.

Reuben Ellis
Admin
1 year ago

Hey Brett . We did not compare this and we should do. This is a good idea that we will look at doing in future tests. Thanks for the comment and suggestion.

Kris Dalziel
Kris Dalziel
1 year ago

I’ve only just watched this video, I am looking at Starboard and Red Paddle Co and wow was I disappointed with the Red Paddle Co board, I was also disappointed this was their only submission as everyone raves about the 12.6 Voyager. I will have to look through the video again as there were other offerings I had never heard of. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. I am trying some Red Paddle Co boards on Thursday in Exeter at AS Watersports but I fear the canal is probably not the best test, I am going… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
1 year ago
Reply to  Kris Dalziel

Hey Kris. Thanks for your comments. It’s so interesting using loads of boards back to back and even more interesting getting other testers feedback. And like you said a bit disappointing really. I know this test unset alot of red owners as well.
I still think the red boards and packages in general are really top end gear, but some of the shapes are not as good as other boards on the market now.
You need to watch this video as well https://supboardermag.com/2021/09/17/red-paddle-cos-v-hull-does-it-work/
thanks Reuben

Kris Dalziel
Kris Dalziel
1 year ago
Reply to  Reuben Ellis

Hiya Reuben Thank you for your reply. To keep it short, I tried the 12.6 sport and the 13.2 Voyager, the 12.6 just wasn’t good for my weight I think (87kg) and the 13.2, I don’t know what to say, my £400 board is fast and better in every way than this board I am hugely disappointed. My wife tried the 12.6 and said my current board is much better. I am looking elsewhere, maybe a starboard but you have other videos I need to watch first. I don’t believe the V-Hull works but maybe you are right and it’s toed… Read more »

Reuben Ellis
Admin
1 year ago
Reply to  Kris Dalziel

Got you and agree. Its a bit disappointing isn’t it. Let us know if you have any other questions. Thanks Reuben

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