Boating – June 2019

(C. Jardin) #1
BOAT DOCTOR /// BOAT DOC SPECIAL

54 | BOATINGMAG.COM | JUNE 2019


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RADAR
ZEPHYR
LENGTH: 10'6"
WIDTH: 2'6"
THICKNESS: 6"
WEIGHT: 26.2 lb.
PRICE: $800; radarskis.com
DESIGNED FOR:
water

paddleboarding wherever you want to go
(within reason, of course). The soft top deck
provides plenty of comfort for longer paddle
sessions, and the integrated tie-down up
front can hold a dry bag with essentials. If
you enjoy boating on lakes, this is a great ad-
dition to on-water activities, and one that the
whole family can enjoy. —Garrett Cortese

Safety should always be a top priority,
even if you’re just paddling near your
dock. Look for a fl otation vest or
infl atable belt pack made for stand-up
paddleboarding. You want one that
won’t chafe or restrict the motion
of paddling. These two models from
O’Brien are great places to start, and
both are U.S. Coast Guard-approved.

ARSENAL LIFE JACKET
Minimalist design with oversize arm-
holes for unrestricted movement.
PRICE: $50; obrien.com

SUP INFLATABLE BELT PACK
Fits waist sizes 30 to 52 inches. Pull
cord activates CO^2 cartridge.
PRICE: $90; obrien.com

DON’T FORGET YOUR FLOTATION!


O’BRIEN
HILO

2'6"
THICKNESS:
NA

The Hilo is a great board for those just
getting into the iSUP market, or the buy-
er who doesn’t need bells and whistles or
high-performance characteristics. “Keep

the Hilo was built on, and it works well.
Its balanced shape and simple design
make learning to paddle comfortably and
effi ciently a breeze. Plus, its smaller size
makes it easier to transport and stow than
other larger iSUP boards.

UNDER
PRESSURE
Partially defl ate iSUPs
left in the sun to prevent
overexpansion beyond
their psi limits.
Free download pdf