The Nautical series of inflatable paddle boards from iRocker SUP are lightweight and budget friendly, and well suited for folks looking to explore their local waterways. Fashioned from a durable dual layer PVC material, they can be rolled up and stored in their included backpacks, taking up minimal storage space.
The Nautical line is one of four offered from iRocker, a Florida based brand that primarily sells their products consumer direct via their website. Though they have a few hard board models, they primarily focus on inflatable boards, also known as iSUPs.
Features (focusing on the 11’6″)
- Available in 10’6″ and 11’6″ lengths
- Height 11’6″
- Width 32″
- Thickness 6″
- Volume 232 L
- Weight: 22lbs
- 3 removable fins
- Includes 3 piece fiberglass paddle, single chamber hand pump, ankle leash, repair kit
- 17 d-rings for easy cargo storage in both the front and rear of the board
- Multiple handle options
- Compatible with SUP to kayak conversion kit
iRocker boards (including the Nautical and Blackfin lines) are sold as complete kits that include a pump, paddle, bag, leash, and fins. The board features d-ring mounts and attachment points in both the front and rear of the board that add versatility over many other boards in its price point. However, the big design feature that makes the Nautical stand out over other budget options (IE, the Body Glove SUP) is the removable fins.
The two of the most common paddle board brands we see on our local river is iRocker/Nautical and Body Glove models, with the Body Glove models being the popular iSUP on the water. Available at Costco, the Body Glove models are inexpensive; with the discounted cost and generous return policy, they’re an excellent value. For shoppers looking to get out on the water for the lowest cost, they’re a good option, and we’d argue better than most of the other boards we see in the local sporting goods stores. However, the fins are fixed to the board, and we’ve found they often come out of storage bent. This will affect the handling of the board. They’re also short, which further affects the tracking. (this makes it harder to paddle in a straight line, as you’ll need to constantly switch which side you’re paddling on)
For folks looking to get out and float casually, they’re fine, but limiting when you’re looking to actually paddle in a straight line for any given distance. (in comparison, on a high performance board, I’ll often paddling 10-12 strokes per side before alternating, depending on conditions)
iRocker often runs sales and promotions, and savvy shoppers can find deals if they’re patient. Overall, we find the Nautical a better investment. We previously published a write-up on the iRocker model, and initially selected it over the Nautical as every part of the package was upgraded, including the pump, paddle, and even the backpack, which features wheels. (an optional upgrade)
However, the Nautical line cost significantly less and represents a better value; for most folks looking to simply get out and enjoy casual floating and paddling, all they might need. Our tester ended up purchasing an electric pump separately. As she did most of her inflating by the car, the features of the nicer backpack weren’t utilized.
Balancing on the Nautical is easily done with its length, volume, and width providing a lot of stability. Like any iSUP, having the appropriate amount of air pressure is key to an enjoyable experience. With proper air pressure, the board offers a stable platform for moving around.
Having paddled both the 10’6 and 11’6″ models, the longer model is indeed a bit faster. It also features more air volume, which allows it to support more weight. If you’re a bigger paddler, or plan to carry more cargo (like a second person, or a packed cooler) the larger option is the better choice.
With two cargo nets installed out of the box, there is plenty of room for strapping down cargo. The net is a bit challenging to navigate when playing around on the rear of the board, but most folks out on their first SUP are more likely to tour around and perhaps paddle to an island to enjoy a mellow snack.
Based on our previous recommendations, several friends shared their experiences with their Nautical 10’6″ and 11’6″ inflatable paddle boards. After spending some time comparing the Nautical to the iRocker, Body Glove, as well as longer, performance-oriented models, the overall consensus was that the Nautical was the model we’d recommend.
We’ve found it really comes down to where you paddle, how far you paddle, and how you paddle with. The speed difference between the two Nautical models felt minor, and the reality is that neither compares to a performance-oriented 14′ board. If you find yourself doing longer excursions and progressing in the sport, there are paddle board models more suitable for the application. That said, the quality of the Nautical is of a level where it should provide years of use and is a solid value option for its category.
Retail pricing on the Nautical paddle boards starts at $549, with the 10’6″ on sale for a very inexpensive $310 at the time of this posting. Check out the Nautical collection of standup paddle boards at iRockerSUP.com