News + Trends
ISPO 2019: Airboard presents the lightest SUP in the world
by Michael Restin
A light board with a big impact
30.8.2019
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
Pictures: Thomas Kunz
Light, lighter, ultralight. The featherweight «Airboard Strider» is the perfect partner for getting out on the water. Brilliant for SUP fans looking for secluded lakes and beaches.
The right tool at the right time is worth its weight in gold. A hammer is a massive help when you're trying to drive a nail into a wall. And choosing your SUP is all about hitting the proverbial nail on the head when it comes to its purpose. The range of shapes, volumes and brands is virtually limitless. If you're mainly out and about with a light backpack and want to hike to the paddling site of your dreams, the options soon become limited. I first came across Airboard's ultralight models at the ISPO sporting fair in Munich (article in German). Now I have the opportunity to try out the all-round and touring «Strider» model.
A smart trick
The Airboard Strider weighs approximately 5.6 kg, but the manufacturer adds: «Due to slight variation in material coating, as well as physical influences, the provided weight of SUP can vary up to 15%.» In other words, up to 840 grammes. Whatever the scales say, it's definitely extremely light for an SUP. And its intermittent deck pad really sets it apart visually. This means that it folds up incredibly small and fits in a thin backpack, which is reminiscent of the heavy roll-up bags for other boards.
If you're thinking «they could have invested in a cushioned rucksack though», there is a reason for this design. And it's a good one. The backpack is a pump bag, enabling you to store your belongings on board. To reach the required pressure (0.8 - 1.2 bar), you need a small pump, which requires less luggage. Or the PumpPaddle, which helps you take in stunning views on the water. Wait, no. There's no-one to see on the isolated bank, is there?
Accompanying me on my test was Martin Strahm, whose business «Liquid Trails» opens up Switzerland's most beautiful paddle routes (in German). While he filled his Starboard on the bank of the Wägitalersee with a standard pump, I took a little longer with the PumpBag. I hadn't practiced, but the principle was fun and didn't require any effort. Open bag, air in, close bag, knee on top. And, finally, add pressure to the chamber with the PumpPaddle. It worked well. And it would get better with practice, no doubt.
On the water
The Airboard has no handle to help carry it into the water. There's a strap that you can add to the eyelets on the side. But when it's just a few metres, you can just pin it under your arm. How the ultralight weight transferred onto the water interested me right from the start. Although my attention was first captured by the wild, romantic banks of the Wägitalersee, I started to focus more on the board.
As is to be expected, it's not the most stable board I've been on. Everything that's not necessary has been dispensed with to reduce the weight and ensure the smaller pack size. But with a maximum load capacity of 100 kg, 70 kg me found it very manoeuvrable on the water. It's quite flexible and the intermittent deck pad with its red chevron pattern didn't bother me. Despite its unconventional design, it's slip-resistant.
Everything felt harmonious. Until I swapped with Martin and stepped onto his 12' 6" Starboard. It was like a tanker in comparison. It glided more effortlessly, but it was much more difficult to turn. I hardly felt the carbon paddle that Martin had pressed into my hand. Being back on the Strider felt like standing on air, while the PumpPaddle felt like lead. I could carry on listing pros and cons, but I'll leave it there. They're too unique.
Verdict
It's undeniable that the Airboard Strider impresses with its light weight and smart PumpBag concept. You don't need it if you're taking your SUP to the shore by car. You need it if you want to be flexible. You won't find a smaller or lighter board to carry, and the PumpBag doubles as a rucksack. If you're flying, travelling or hiking and want to be equipped for all SUP eventualities, the Airboard is the one for you.
Michael Restin
Senior Editor
Michael.Restin@digitecgalaxus.chSimple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.
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