Earlier this year we received news of an innovative new inflatable paddle board from Pau Hana Surf Co. – the 10’10” Solo Backcountry. The Solo SUP is a “hikeable” air SUP that fits inside a small backpack weighing in at 23 lbs for the complete package.
Based out of California, since 2006 Pau Hana Surf Supply has been a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative stand up paddle boards. The Hawaiian phrase “Pau Hana” means “the time after work” and for Pau Hana’s founder and designer, Todd Caranto, it’s all about the spirit of play on the water.
While Pau Hana manufactures both hard shells and air sups, the eight inflatable models range in size from 9’6″ to 15’0″, spanning water activities of yoga, surfing, party paddling, racing and fishing – and now backpacking and bike packing.
Pau Hana’s dream was to break down the access barriers to paddling in remote locations by designing an entire paddle board kit – board, paddle, pump, leash, fins and backpack/drybag – which could easily be hiked/biked into the back country.
The result of the redesign created a package that is truly an example of the “whole is the sum of the parts.” Enter the Pau Hana 10’10’ Solo Backcountry – a portable, full-length air SUP replete with gear, that fits into a dry bag/backpack measuring 22 x 12 x 13 inches and weighing in at 23 lbs. The Pau Hana 10’10” SOLO Backcountry now joins the ranks of the popular inflatable packrafts with a paddling alternative – the pack sup.
What’s so special? Beginning with the board, the Solo 10-10 is constructed from an ultra-light dropstitch material. What is dropstitch? An inner core consists of two pieces of fabric held together with thousands of threads, creating an inflatable with the structure and rigidity to be pumped up to 15 PSI.
While one can easily save weight by removing features, the SOLO doesn’t skimp on whiz-bangs, with enough features to enhance the paddling experience.
Two 6″ quick snap-in fins easily connect to the board to provide tracking. The fin boxes are placed on both sides of the board, allowing one to fold the board in half for smaller storage.
There is one military valve for inflation.
Bungee deck lacing on the nose and tail provide numerous places to attach gear
A soft neoprene handle provides a comfortable grip while carrying the board.
The SOLO mini pump features feet and handles that can be unscrewed to create a smaller package.
The new, patented SOLO “soft” paddle may be a game changer. Driven by the challenge to reduce bulk, the paddle is a lightweight fiberglass shaft with a “rollable” soft PVC blade and consists of an adjustable handle, 3 shaft pieces and 2 connectors. The paddle has been designed for multiple configurations; by simply removing one shaft, the paddle can be adapted as a canoe-style – or packraft – paddle as well as a child’s paddle.
The SOLO Drybag Backpack plays a major role in the package. Designed for multiple uses, the bag can be used as a backpack or drybag. Lightweight and constructed from environmentally friendly TPU, the SOLO bag includes a fully detachable harness that can be stowed inside the bag or attached to a bike with a strap or carabiner. Daisy chain webbing and an additional outside pocket allows for storing extra gear. When on the water, the bag turns into a drybag for storing your belongings while keeping them dry.
Board measurements are 10’10 inches in length, 30 inches in width with a 6 inch thickness. Board weight is 15 lbs with a volume of 218 liters and a weight capacity of 215 lbs.
What’s in the kit? 10’10 inflatable SUP, drybag backpack, 10′ leash, 2 6-inch fins, mini pump, Solo Paddle™, Paddle bag, Accessory bag and repair kit. Retail price is $1249.
For more information or to purchase, visit the Pau Hana 10-10 Solo Backcountry product page at AirKayaks.com.