Red Paddle Co has announced the launch of their new 9’6″ Compact Inflatable SUP Package, a revolutionary game-changer in the inflatable paddle board industry.
Based on the popular Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6″ with similarities to the original 9’6″ All Water, the 9’6″ Compact features a 32″ width with 4.7″ thickness, yet packs down to half the size of a conventional Red board without sacrificing performance, rigidity or durability. The package comes complete with Titan pump, backpack, cell phone case, fins, gauge, leash and carbon breakdown paddle; the entire package weighs in at roughly 28.5 lbs (12.7 kg), with the board alone at 16.65 lbs/7.4 kg.
Red Paddle accomplished this through a series of material breakthroughs and innovative design, starting from the ground-up and re-engineering each part.
The 9’6″ Compact is constructed from a newly-developed core material, featuring a high-resolution thread matrix called PACT technology. Ten years in the making, PACT technology is a new weaving process which creates a high-tensile thread matrix at the core of the board, with a super-strong, malleable outer layer.
A unique “quad stringer” system is placed on the top and underside; as the board is inflated, the stringer becomes tighter making the 9’6 Compact more rigid without the bulk.
The deck pad is now “split” with the handle placed just left of center. Both the inflation valve and leash have also been placed off-center, in essence creating a “living hinge,” allowing one to fold the board in half and easily roll the Compact into a smaller package.
A bungee deck-lace system with 6 d-rings provides enough space and attachment points to secure extra gear.
The removable Red Click Fin System features two fully recyclable FCS fins and fin box with an integrated pin system ensuring the fins are not lost while paddling. The fin box is compatible with most FCS fins.
The bag went through equal scrutiny and now touts a smaller footprint; dimensions are roughly 22″x 16.5″ x 11″ as compared to the current roller backpack of 38″ x 14″ x 12″. The entire bag was redesigned to enhance comfort. New features include lumbar support which can be customized by adjusting the height, a cushioned, adjustable waist belt and adjustable backpack straps with concentrated shoulder padding. Each of these allow one to personally optimize the backpack for a more ergonomic fit.
The carry handle is constructed from a tubular, closed-cell foam padding, with reinforced handle and strap anchor points and rollover seams. The interior features a fin pocket, water bottle pocket and paddle storage straps. Weight reduction is saved via the smaller size, and removal of the wheels. All this makes a lighter-weight, 4 lb./1.8 kg backpack that features 53% less downward force applied on the lower back.
Included in the 9’6″ Compact Package is an innovative 5-piece, breakdown paddle, with a shaft constructed from a rigid, high-modulus carbon. Individual shaft sections have been cut on an angle to minimize twisting and are assembled with a push-pin system. The laser-etched nylon blade delivers durability and performance.
The paddle weighs 1.8 lbs/0.8 kg and can be adjusted from 70.8 in to 82.7 in (180-210cm) with a longest shaft length of roughlly 17.7 to 20 inches. In addition, the individual shafts can be removed to create a paddle suitable for smaller riders (53 in to 65 in/135cm to 165 cm), making it a great choice for families.
Last but not least, the 9″6″ Compact System comes with the popular Red Paddle Co Coiled Leash, as well as the remarkable Titan Dual Chamber pump, which lets you pump up the board to high pressures in no time.
Each of these components worked together to create a board that is as rigid, high-performing and durable as the standard Red boards, yet easily folds and rolls up to half the size.
The 9’6″ Compact Package is perfect for the outdoor urbanite planning weekend escapes or wanderlust riders wanting a packable option without sacrificing performance. The 9’6″ Compact is also a great choice for families, easily packed in a car or RV, light enough for most members to carry, and a carbon paddle that can be adjusted for most sizes. Max payload is 209 lbs person and gear.
The 9’6″ Compact System includes Titan pump, gauge, repair kit, Compact backpack, two fins, 5 pc-carbon paddle, leash and cell phone case. MSRP is $1899.
For more details, also read our in-depth product review on the Red Paddle Co Compact 9-6, or watch our YouTube Video, below. To purchase, visit the Red Paddle Co Compact Package product page at www.AirKayaks.com.