Distance paddling on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is an awesome way to explore waterways and get a full-body workout. Touring SUPs are designed for efficiency and stability, making them ideal for longer trips compared to all-around boards. Choosing the right touring board can make all the difference in your paddling experience, ensuring comfort and performance on the water. I’ve put together a list of the top 5 touring SUPs to help you find the perfect match for your next adventure. These boards are excellent for stability, glide, and overall performance.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- iRocker Nautical 11’6″: Great all-around touring option, budget-friendly.
- Atoll 11′ Touring SUP: Lightweight and durable, excellent for travel.
- Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12: Premium features, enhanced stability, and speed.
- Red Paddle Co Voyager+: High-end inflatable, superior stiffness and tracking.
- Blackfin Model X: Ultra-stable, loaded with features for serious expeditions.
Top 5 Best Touring Stand Up Paddle Boards
1. iRocker Nautical 11’6″
The iRocker Nautical 11’6″ is a fantastic entry-level touring board that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s designed to offer a blend of stability and speed, making it suitable for paddlers of various skill levels. This board is a great option for those looking to get into touring without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable for a touring board.
- ✅ Stable and easy to paddle, good for beginners.
- ✅ Lightweight and portable when deflated.
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t track as well as higher-end models.
- ❌ Accessories are basic compared to premium brands.
- ❌ Might feel a bit slow for experienced paddlers.
Verdict: The iRocker Nautical 11’6″ is an excellent choice for beginners or those on a budget who want a versatile and stable touring SUP.
2. Atoll 11′ Touring SUP
The Atoll 11′ Touring SUP is designed for paddlers who value portability and durability. Constructed with high-quality materials, this board is lightweight yet robust, making it easy to carry and resistant to wear and tear. I really appreciate how compact it packs down, especially when traveling.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptionally lightweight for easy transport.
- ✅ Durable construction can withstand various conditions.
- ✅ Good tracking and glide for efficient paddling.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as stable as wider boards in choppy water.
- ❌ Limited color options compared to other brands.
- ❌ Paddle could be upgraded for better performance.
Verdict: The Atoll 11′ Touring SUP is perfect for travelers and paddlers who prioritize a lightweight and durable board that performs well on the water.
3. Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12
The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12 is a step up in terms of performance and features. This board incorporates carbon fiber rails, enhancing its stiffness and responsiveness. The added length contributes to better tracking and speed, making it ideal for longer tours and more experienced paddlers.
Pros:
- ✅ Carbon fiber rails improve stiffness and performance.
- ✅ Excellent stability and tracking.
- ✅ Comes with a comprehensive accessory package, including a kayak conversion kit.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to basic models.
- ❌ Heavier than some other touring boards.
- ❌ May be overkill for casual paddlers.
Verdict: The Bluefin Cruise Carbon 12 is a top-tier touring SUP for those willing to invest in enhanced performance, stability, and a complete accessory package.
4. Red Paddle Co Voyager+
Red Paddle Co is known for its high-quality inflatable SUPs, and the Voyager+ is no exception. This board stands out for its superior stiffness, thanks to Red Paddle Co’s patented MSL fusion technology. The Voyager+ is designed for long-distance touring and expeditions, offering exceptional stability and tracking.
Pros:
- ✅ Unmatched stiffness and rigidity for an inflatable SUP.
- ✅ Excellent tracking and glide, ideal for long distances.
- ✅ High-quality construction and attention to detail.
Cons:
- ❌ Significantly more expensive than other inflatable SUPs.
- ❌ Can be harder to inflate to the recommended PSI.
- ❌ Weight is higher compared to other boards.
Verdict: The Red Paddle Co Voyager+ is the ultimate choice for serious touring enthusiasts who demand the best in performance and quality, regardless of price.
5. Blackfin Model X
The Blackfin Model X is built for stability and carrying capacity, making it an excellent choice for expeditions and multi-day trips. This board is incredibly stable, even when loaded with gear, and features numerous attachment points for securing equipment. I have a friend who uses this for fishing and loves how stable it is even with a cooler and gear.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional stability, even with heavy loads.
- ✅ Numerous attachment points for gear.
- ✅ Durable construction for demanding conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel slower compared to sleeker touring boards.
- ❌ The extra width can make it harder to paddle efficiently in windy conditions.
- ❌ One of the heavier inflatable SUPs on the market.
Verdict: The Blackfin Model X is perfect for paddlers who need maximum stability and carrying capacity for extended tours and expeditions.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right touring SUP involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences.
- Length and Width: Longer boards (11’6″ to 14′) generally offer better tracking and speed, while wider boards (30″ to 34″) provide more stability. Consider your skill level and the type of water you’ll be paddling in.
- Construction: Inflatable SUPs are convenient for storage and transport, while hard boards offer better performance and durability. Look for high-quality materials and construction techniques.
- Volume and Weight Capacity: Ensure the board has enough volume and weight capacity to support your weight and any gear you plan to carry.
- Fins: A single fin setup is common for touring SUPs, but some boards may have additional side fins for increased stability. Experiment with different fin configurations to find what works best for you.
- Accessories: Consider the included accessories, such as a paddle, pump, leash, and repair kit. A good quality paddle can make a significant difference in your paddling efficiency.
- Intended Use: Think about the type of paddling you’ll be doing. Are you planning on long-distance tours, or shorter paddles on calm water? Choose a board that suits your specific needs.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a touring SUP and an all-around SUP?
A: Touring SUPs are designed for longer distances and better tracking, while all-around SUPs are more versatile and suitable for various activities like surfing and yoga.
Q: Are inflatable touring SUPs as good as hard boards?
A: High-quality inflatable touring SUPs can perform nearly as well as hard boards, offering excellent stiffness and durability. They also have the added benefit of being portable and easy to store.
Q: How do I choose the right size touring SUP?
A: Consider your weight, skill level, and the type of paddling you’ll be doing. Longer and wider boards are generally more stable and suitable for beginners or those carrying gear.
Q: What accessories do I need for touring SUP?
A: Essential accessories include a paddle, leash, pump (for inflatable boards), personal flotation device (PFD), and a repair kit. Consider also a dry bag for your belongings and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Q: How do I maintain my touring SUP?
A: Rinse your board with fresh water after each use, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Check for any damage regularly and repair as needed.
Conclusion
Selecting the best touring stand-up paddleboard involves careful consideration of your paddling style, experience level, and budget. Each of the boards reviewed offers unique benefits, whether it’s the affordability of the iRocker Nautical, the portability of the Atoll, the enhanced performance of the Bluefin Cruise Carbon, the top-tier quality of the Red Paddle Co Voyager+, or the stability of the Blackfin Model X. By weighing the pros and cons, you can confidently choose a touring SUP that will enhance your adventures on the water.
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