We recently received details on Red Paddle Company’s exciting new inflatable SUP lineup being introduced for 2016.
Well-known throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, the Red Paddle Co line has steadily gained traction in the US. Noted for their ruggedness and performance, each of the Red Air boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 15-25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins.
For 2016, Red Paddle Co has 17 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 17’0. This includes the introduction of 3 new models, revamped graphics on several of the current models, and one retiring model. Prices are generally remaining the same as in 2015.
The major change for 2016 is the introduction of a technologically innovative new process named Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. Standard dropstitch construction consists of time-consuming hand-gluing of layers, potentially resulting in uneven glue application causing air leakages and bubbling. This innovative new technology involves fusing a second layer of polymer to the drop-stitch material in the raw material stage, reducing human errors. The end result is a higher-quality, high-pressure material utilizing less glue; this reduces the weight of each board approximately 20% while increasing the tension and making the boards slightly more rigid. The 2016 Red Paddle inflatable boards now weigh from 15 to 25 lbs, down from 20 to 34 lbs.
Many of the deck pads have undergone a redesign, now comprised of machine-pressed, thermosealed, low-relief finishes, utilizing less glue thus decreasing air bubbles. While most feature the “crocodile” finish deck pads, all boards needing extra grip also include a diamond pattern.
Additional tweaks include stainless steel d-rings for deck tie-downs and updated 6.75″ US fin boxes on models utilizing removable fins. Carrying handles are now softer, with several models featuring an additional rear carry handle with integrated d-ring loop.
One of the new models is the introduction of the 13′ 2″ Explorer Plus, a streamlined expedition board with a longer waterline. While sharing many similarities to the popular Explorer 12-6, the 13′-2 Plus boasts a slimmer, 30-inch beam with squared-off tail for stability. Extended bungee deck-lacing, multiple d-rings, RSS side stiffening system, 5 carrying handles and grip spots make this a great choice for longer excursions or situations where carrying capacity and performance are required. Carrying capacity 330 lbs, weight 24 lbs. MSRP $1649. The current Explorer 12-6 remains virtually the same with an added rear handle and updated graphics but now with a lower weight of 25 lbs. MSRP $1599.
At the opposite side of the spectrum, the new Whip 8-10 replaces the Surfstar 9-2. With a wide nose, narrow tail, a slimmer beam, the RSS batten system and removable center fin, the Whip can catch waves and maneuver swells anywhere you can take it – in fact, the Whip recently placed first in the 2015 Euro SUPA Surf Title. Capacity 200 lbs. 3.93 inches thick, 29 inches wide, weight 15 lbs. MSRP $1199.
For 2016, Red Paddle Co is maintaining status-quo on the best-selling Ride trio – the Ride 9-8, the Ride 10-6 and the Ride 10-8. The popular “all-around use” series will continue into 2016 without major changes except for the new material construction and additional tail handle with integrated ankle leash loop (on the 10-8 and 10-6 models). Prices will remain at the 2015 level at $1299, $1299 and $1379 respectively. New weights are 19 lbs/20 lbs/21 lbs.
Additionally, the Sport 11 – Red Paddle’s “weekend warrior” flatwater cruiser – will remain virtually unchanged except for an additional tail handle with integrated ankle leash loop, but will be joined by the Sport 12-6 – an elongated version reminiscent of the original Race 12-6 with a 30 inch beam. The new Sport 12-6 has a retail price of $1599 while the Sport 11 remains at $1499. Weights 22 lbs/20 lbs.
The four racing models – Max Race 10-6, the Race 12-6, Elite 12-6 and Elite 14-0 – also remain in the lineup with spruced up graphics, diamond deck finish and slight relocation of the handles. Prices are also the same as 2015 at $1249, $1599, $1629 and $1799 respectively. Weights 15 lbs/21 lbs/19 lbs/22 lbs.
Red Paddle’s whitewater Flow 9-6 has undergone some graphic and structural changes – the most notable is a slight squaring of the shape, and the addition of a removable center fin to the current four fixed fins. The new fin provides better tracking in flatwater situations. Rubber grip under the deck lacing helps keep gear from shifting in “fluid” situations. Capacity 265 lbs., weight 24 lbs. MSRP $1349.
Three models slipped into the United States late 2015 without much splash, and will continue in the 2016 lineup. These included the 10-8 Activ, the Ride XL and the Ride 10-8 WindSUP.
The 10-8 Activ is Red Paddle’s athletic board. At 34 inches in width and 5.3 inches thick, the Activ features details geared toward fitness, Pilates and yoga. Side handles and a full deck pad make it comfortable for stretching, yet still gives the great glide experience seen in the other Ride boards. Capacity up to 265 lbs. Weight: 23 lbs. MSRP $1449.
The ultra-fun Ride XL is a 17 foot behemoth, perfect for families, friends, clubs and events. At 60 inches wide with an 8 inch thickness, the Ride XL is great for up to 8 paddlers – or with mega room for gear. Four valves and four included pumps make pumping up the board a social scene. MSRP $3499.
The Ride 10-8 WindSUP features the basic design of the popular 10-8 Ride, but with an integrated mast foot for optional windsurf sails and a removable deep water tracking fin. Geared toward advanced windsurfers, the Ride 10-8 WS extends the options available on the board, from standup paddling to catching the winds (sail is not included). Capacity: 265 lbs, weight 21 lbs. MSRP $1449.
Also remaining in the 2016 lineup is the Snapper 9’4 with an updated look. Designed with the youngster in mind, the Snapper has a shorter length and slim beam, making it a great choice for kids (or small adults). Good for rivers, shorelines, recreational play or catching a swell. Specifications: 9’4″ length, 27 inches wide, 100mm/3.9 inches thick, capacity up to 132 lbs. Weight 15 lbs. MSRP $1099.
All the boards – except the smaller 8’10” Whip and 9’4″ Snapper – come with the popular Titan double-barrel hand pump, rugged backpack with roller wheels, and cell phone case. The Titan allows one to inflate a board to 18 PSI in nearly half the time of typical SUP pumps. The two smaller boards – due to their much lower air volumes – come with the HP EZ pump.
The Red Paddle Co paddle line has also been revamped with new graphic designs in aluminum, fiberglass and carbon. The three-piece breakdowns can be adjusted from 170cm to 210/220cm. Prices range from $139 to $279.
The 2016 Red Paddle Co boards should be arriving mid-to late November – pre-orders are being accepted. For complete details on the boards and new features, or to purchase, visit the Red Paddle Co product pages at AirKayaks.com
We have also just published our updated 2016 Guide to Choosing Your Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board.
You can also watch a YouTube video overview on the new product line.
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