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Review of the Starboard 12’6″ x 30″ Deluxe Lite Inflatable Touring SUP
The new Starboard 12’6” Touring Deluxe Lite is a standout board, designed to impress in both performance and value. This inflatable paddleboard is incredibly light, thanks to its updated construction, yet remains stiff and durable. In this quick review, we’re going to dive into what makes this board so special and why it’s one of the best value options for touring enthusiasts.
Why It’s a Favorite
This board is one of our favorites. If we had to choose only one inflatable paddleboard, many of us would choose this one. The 12’6” x 30″ Touring is Starboard’s best-selling shape, and for good reason. The shape remains unchanged from previous models, which is fantastic since it’s what makes this board so effective. However, the construction has received a significant upgrade.
Key Construction Upgrades
The “Deluxe Lite” construction is an evolution of the previous Zen construction. This isn’t just a marketing update—it’s a complete overhaul of the materials and technology used.
- Woven Drop-Stitch Fabric: The board features a woven drop-stitch construction, improving rigidity significantly when inflated to 18-22 PSI.
- Welded Seams: These seams add to the durability and stiffness while reducing potential weak points.
- Lighter Weight: At just 8.2 kg (18 lbs), this board is remarkably lightweight, especially for a board of its size.
Shape and Stability
The board’s shape is a big reason for its popularity:
- 30-Inch Width: It fills out to its full width quickly at the nose, providing stability and a smooth paddling experience.
- Parallel Outline: The shape runs parallel through most of the board, only tapering at the tail, which contributes to its stability and tracking.
- Volume: With 355 liters of volume, the board is excellent for carrying heavier loads while maintaining stability.
Practical Features
Starboard has added thoughtful features to make the board even more versatile and user-friendly:
- Cargo System:
- A crisscross bungee system at the front, with removable clips for easy loading.
- Additional tie-down points near the tail to balance gear effectively.
- Carrying Features:
- Padded handles at the nose, center, and tail make carrying the board easy.
- An improved elastic shoulder strap provides greater comfort when transporting the board.
- Deck Pad:
- A crocodile-skin, diamond-cut deck pad offers grip and comfort.
- A generous kick pad at the tail aids in performing pivot turns, ideal for maneuverability.
- Kayak Seat Compatibility:
- New D-rings on the rails allow for a retrofitted kayak seat.
- A removable footrest enhances comfort and stability for those who prefer paddling seated.
Design and Graphics
The graphics on the board are clean and attractive, with subtle design elements that tie everything together. The red bungee cords, centerline, and deck pad transitions are visually cohesive, giving the board a premium look. The woven cross-stitch pattern isn’t visible on the surface but is represented graphically, adding to the overall aesthetic.
Fin Box Innovation
The fin box is another standout feature:
- Starboard’s Proprietary Design: Unlike most brands that use off-the-shelf fin boxes, this one is designed in-house. It’s more hydrodynamic and folds easily, allowing the board to roll into a smaller package.
- Dol-fin 22 Fin: The included fin provides excellent lateral stability and tracking, making it ideal for touring.
Performance on the Water
This board excels in flatwater conditions, which is where its longer waterline comes into play. Its efficient design allows for smooth paddling and excellent tracking, making it perfect for covering long distances with ease. While not a racing board, it performs well enough to handle recreational racing scenarios.
Who Is The 12’6″ Touring Deluxe Lite For?
This board is ideal for paddlers who:
- Want to explore touring or long-distance paddling.
- Are beginners or intermediates looking for a stable, efficient board.
- Appreciate lightweight and compact gear for easy transportation.
In our experience, many new paddlers initially gravitate towards smaller, all-round boards. However, when they try a longer board like the Starboard 12’6” Touring Deluxe Lite, they’re often surprised at how much more efficient and enjoyable the experience is. It’s a board that grows with you as your skills and ambitions expand.
Final Thoughts
The Starboard 12’6” Touring Deluxe Lite is a fantastic board that sets a new standard for inflatable touring paddleboards. With its innovative construction, thoughtful features, and stunning design, it offers exceptional value for a complete package (includes paddle and leash) at a price point of just $899. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this board delivers on all fronts, making it a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy touring on the water.
If you have any questions or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us.
About the author: Julian Kidd