Comments on: Best Touring SUPs 2025

By: Alli Blackmon - SupBoardGuide.com Staff Writer

Alli Blackmon - SupBoardGuide.com Staff Writer — Fri, 13 May 2022 21:44:55 +0000

In reply to Stefanie.

Stefanie,

I do think either of those SUPs would be an upgrade from your Isle Explorer, however, there are some areas where the two differ. The Gili Adventure will have a little more stability because it’s 32″ wide, though it won’t be capable of quite as much speed as the 31″ wide iROCKER Sport. The iROCKER Sport will also be a bit more rigid due to an extra layer of PVC, and will come with a carbon matte paddle rather than the Gili Adventure’s fiberglass paddle.

Personally, I’d opt for the Sport right now, as it’s currently at a better price than the Gili Adventure, but both are great options depending on your own preferences.

By: Stefanie

Stefanie — Tue, 10 May 2022 17:48:26 +0000

Thanks for all the comprehensive reviews, you all do a great job. I am curious about your opinion. Currently, I have an Isle Explorer. I have enjoyed it over the years. However, my husband now wants to start joining me. His idea was to let me get an “upgrade” and he could take out the Explorer. Now, I live in Middle TN and am surrounded by lakes and rivers so I only paddle on flat water. I paddle about a 10km every weekend during the warmer months. I would like to have a board that would help me push my mileage and speed. In an ideal world I would love a Carta Marina but don’t like the idea of spending over $1000 on my board. So, I have been back and forth between the iRocker Sport and the Gili Adventure. But, after reading your reviews both were labeled as sort of entry level touring boards which is what I feel like I already have in the Explorer. So, in your opinion is either one of those true “upgrades” to what I currently have? If not do you have any recommendations for a more mid-priced touring board?

By: Tony

Tony — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 00:06:05 +0000

Awesome work, great details on function and performance with very user friendly language. You helped me make a very expensive choice much calmer.
Thanks

By: Justin - SupBoardGuide

Justin - SupBoardGuide — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 17:51:37 +0000

In reply to Dialma.

Dialma,

If you are looking for speed, then you are going to want to reduce the board width – especially at 5’2″. I personally would say that you don’t want to go to a shorter board. Something 12’+ is ideal for racing/touring and will be faster in the water even at your height and weight.

Your challenge right now might be inventory. I would recommend something from Red Paddle Co, either their 12’6 Sport or even one of their 12’6 x 28″ Elite SUP if you are looking for something that is extra fast…but I am not sure where you could find one right now. Hopefully they get more inventory in soon, but you might need to check a local REI or Paddle Board shop to see if they have inventory.

I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

By: Dialma

Dialma — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:18:51 +0000

I love all the reviews your team takes the time to write and the videos!. It truly helped me purchase my first SUP – the Blackfin Model V. I love it as a casual touring iSUP and it easily accommodates by twin 8 year old boys. I am a beginner to paddling but not at all a beginner to fitness, so I’ve picked it up pretty quick. I’m loving my board and want another one that is more performance based just for me – no kids on board haha! Here’s the catch – I’m 5’2, 130 lbs and female. Everything I read recommends shorter boards but those are not designed for speed. I badly want another inflatable that suits my stature but doesn’t sacrifice performance. What would you recommend? I’m sure there are short female racers out there – how do they deal with long boards?