SAN DIEGO, California - After more than 6 weeks of deliberation the staff here at Supconnect is excited to announce the 2024 Gear of the Year Awards winners from our 15th Annual Supconnect Awards. As a brief background of the Gear of the Year awards, there were 9 categories for products to be nominated. The 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year Awards launched on July 1st and with support from voters and feedback from retailers and our advisory board, winners have been chosen. So, without further ado, here are the category winners for the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year:

All-Around 

Body Glove Performer '11

The Body Glove Performer ‘11 is a standout in the world of inflatable paddle boards, designed for versatility and stability. With a width of 34 inches, this board offers incredible stability, making it accessible for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. Weighing just 23.3 lbs, it's lightweight and easy to carry, adding to its appeal as an all-around paddle board, perfect for recreational use. Whether you’re paddling around the beach, dock, or river, the Performer 11 is ideal for short-distance paddling, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, all-around board.

Given its well-rounded design and performance, it's no surprise that the Body Glove Performer 11 has been recognized as the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for All-Around Boards. This award underscores the Performer 11’s versatility, stability, and ease of use, solidifying its status as a top choice among paddlers and retailers alike. This board truly lives up to the hype and has earned its place as a go-to option for anyone looking for a dependable, high-performing paddle board.

Race 

SIC Maui RST

The SIC Maui RST dugout all-water raceboard is a game-changer in SIC Maui’s raceboard lineup, redefining what’s possible in the all-water race category. It masterfully combines the race-winning rocker of the RS series with the rough water stability of the Atlantis dugout, creating a board that excels in both flat and challenging conditions. One of the standout features of the RST is its venturi drain system, designed for rapid water evacuation, ensuring that the board remains light and responsive even in the roughest waters.

Engineered for speed and agility, the RST features a narrowed outline, rounded rails, and a narrow tail, allowing it to slice through water with precision. The dugout cockpit provides a stable, widened standing area, essential for maintaining balance in unpredictable conditions. Meanwhile, the increased bow volume and raised spine are designed to efficiently navigate through choppy waters, while the extended bow bottom nose minimizes drag, delivering unmatched performance across various water conditions.

When it comes to racing, buzz and popularity alone aren’t enough to secure a Supconnect award; the board must deliver on every front. The SIC Maui RST does just that, offering innovation, quality, and performance that are second to none. Our editorial team had the chance to put the RST to the test, and it’s clear that this board is built for serious racers. Retailers are also buzzing with excitement about this model, which has quickly become a favorite among competitive paddlers. It’s this combination of cutting-edge design and proven performance that has earned the SIC Maui RST the title of 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Best Race Board.

Inflatable 

NAGI Outo Inspire

The NAGI Inspire is an inflatable stand-up paddle board that has been expertly crafted to deliver an exceptional experience for both surfing and all-around paddling. Available in two convenient sizes—10’6” and 11’6”—the NAGI Inspire offers versatility that appeals to both beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. What sets this board apart is the comprehensive package it comes with, including the board itself, a high-quality paddle, pump, leash, three fins, a repair kit, and a carry bag. This makes the NAGI Inspire not only a great board but also a convenient, all-in-one solution for paddle boarding enthusiasts.

In a market crowded with options, finding an inflatable stand-up paddle board that combines quality, versatility, and value can be a challenge. The NAGI Inspire stands out for its well-rounded package that doesn’t compromise on quality. Every component in this setup is designed to enhance the user experience, from the durable board to the premium accessories included. The attention to detail and the commitment to providing a complete, user-friendly package are why the NAGI Inspire has been awarded the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Best Inflatable Standup Paddle Board. This board delivers on all fronts, making it a top choice for anyone looking for a dependable, high-performing inflatable SUP.

Surf

Infinity New Deal

The balancing act between production and custom surfboards is no easy feat. Learning from the design features that empower the best surfers in the world to shine, but then importing them into a board for your average consumer to rip is one of the toughest challenges for board designers. And few products strike that ever-fleeting balance. Infinity’s New Deal is one of them. Infinity’s roots are in surfing so it’s no surprise that their standup paddle surfboards are of top quality and performance. The New Deal is a performance longboard shape with a thin rail and concave like a shortboard underneath. Essentially, this board is the best of both worlds with both longboard and shortboard features incorporated into its design, and it’s made to rip. Plus, it’s got the stamp of approval from retailers. With that incredible balancing act, Infinity's New Deal (for the 4th year in a row) has earned the 2024 SUP Surfboard of the Year in the Supconnect Awards.

Touring 

Starboard Sprint Expedition

The Starboard Sprint Expedition is a standout in the world of expedition and touring stand-up paddle boards, offering an unparalleled combination of speed and quality. Designed with intermediate to advanced paddlers in mind, this board is tailored for long-distance adventures and excels in flatwater conditions. But the Sprint Expedition is more than just a touring board—it also doubles as a race board, showcasing the pinnacle of innovation in the SUP industry.

We can’t help but share the excitement surrounding the Sprint Expedition. Retailers, consumers, and our editorial team are all raving about this exceptional board, and for good reason. It checks every box for a top-tier touring SUP: its design prioritizes speed without sacrificing stability, making it a go-to choice for paddlers who are serious about their expeditions. The Sprint Expedition’s streamlined shape and high-quality construction ensure a smooth glide across the water, whether you’re embarking on a long-distance journey or just enjoying a day on the lake.

Our initial experience with the Sprint Expedition left us thoroughly impressed, and further testing has only solidified its reputation as one of the best touring boards available. Its well-distributed volume provides excellent stability, while the sleek design and attention to detail make it a joy to paddle. With such a comprehensive package, it’s no surprise that the Starboard Sprint Expedition has earned the title of 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Best Touring SUP. This board is a true testament to Starboard’s commitment to excellence in the SUP industry.

Graphics 

Pau Hana Surf Supply Big EZ Air Stowaway

This is one of our favorite categories to award because it shines a spotlight on the creativity and artistry that often go unnoticed in the world of paddleboarding. While performance and functionality are critical, the aesthetic appeal of a board is something special—it’s what draws you in and makes you fall in love with a product at first sight. This year, the Pau Hana Surf Supply Big EZ Air Stowaway captured our attention and the attention of many others with its remarkable graphics, making it an instant standout.

From the moment you lay eyes on the packaging, the Big EZ Stowaway promises something extraordinary. The striking graphics on the box alone make it a work of art, and the excitement only builds as you unbox the board itself. Pau Hana has truly outdone themselves with this limited edition series, featuring 10 unique designs that are nothing short of breathtaking. Each design is a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual appeal in the SUP industry.

But it’s not just our editorial team that was blown away by these designs—retailers and consumers alike have been singing the praises of the Big EZ Stowaway. The stunning graphics on this board have resonated deeply with the paddleboarding community, and it’s easy to see why. The Pau Hana Big EZ Air Stowaway’s visuals don’t just jump off the shelf—they connect with you on a deeper level, making it a board that’s as beautiful as it is functional. That’s why we’re thrilled to award the Pau Hana Surf Supply Big EZ Air Stowaway the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Best Graphics. This board is a true masterpiece, and we can’t wait to see what Pau Hana comes up with next.

Hybrid 

Isle Pioneer 3

The Isle Pioneer 3 is a family-friendly all-around paddle board that stands out for its versatility and convenience. This board is delivered as a complete package, including a paddle, pump, leash, storage bag, and fin, making it ready to hit the water right out of the box. Perfect for short-distance paddling and calm conditions near the shoreline, the Pioneer 3 is designed to accommodate recreational paddlers of all ages.

One of the standout features of the Pioneer 3 is its ability to convert into a kayak, adding an extra layer of versatility to your paddling experience. With six different colorways to choose from, this board combines affordability with functionality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and enjoyable paddle board for family outings or leisurely paddling.

The enthusiasm surrounding the Isle Pioneer 3 is well-deserved. It meets all the criteria for a top-notch hybrid paddle board, offering both the convenience of an all-around board and the adaptability of a kayak. Its thoughtful design and comprehensive package ensure that paddlers can enjoy a great experience on the water from the moment they unbox it. For these reasons, the Isle Pioneer 3 has been awarded the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Best Hybrid SUP, highlighting its exceptional blend of functionality and value in the recreational paddling market.

Technology 

SIC Maui Dragon Fly (DF)

SIC Maui's Dragon Fly (DF) Technology is a game-changer in paddleboard construction, combining a lightweight EPS core with an oak wood deck and bottom laminate, all wrapped in fiberglass. This innovative design delivers superior stiffness, exceptional durability, and enhanced performance. The oak wood laminate adds a new level of strength and rigidity, making the board more robust and reliable in various conditions.

The Dragon Fly technology stands out for its ability to provide a lightweight yet incredibly strong board, which has garnered praise from retailers and paddlers alike. This advanced construction not only improves the board’s performance but also ensures long-lasting durability, even under rigorous use.

Recognizing the impact of this groundbreaking technology, the SIC Maui Dragon Fly (DF) Technology has rightfully earned the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year award for Technology. This accolade highlights SIC Maui’s dedication to innovation and quality in paddleboard design, setting a new benchmark for the industry.

Rental

Surftech Lido Utility Armor

The Surftech Lido Utility Armor is a top-tier choice for rental fleets, blending durability with thoughtful design to create an all-around paddle board that performs well in various conditions. The Lido features a classic, neutral aesthetic paired with practical elements like a nose bungee, tail handle, and a full-deck pad crafted from Surftech’s eco-friendly Bloom Foam. This composite construction ensures the board is robust enough to withstand the wear and tear of rental use without being overly heavy, making it a favorite for rental operators and users alike.

Originally designed with rentals in mind, the Lido has proven to be much more than just a rental board. Its stable performance on the water makes it suitable for a range of activities, from casual paddling to SUP yoga, offering versatility that appeals to both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Available exclusively at REI, the Lido is not only resilient but also user-friendly, making it an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use board.

The Surftech Lido Utility Armor has earned the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year award for Rental, and it’s easy to see why. Its durable construction, practical features, and eco-friendly design elements make it a standout in the rental market, ensuring that paddlers have a positive experience every time they hit the water. This board is a testament to Surftech’s commitment to quality and innovation in the SUP industry, making it a go-to choice for rental fleets across the country.

Accessories

Bajao Cabin SUP Tent

The BAJAO Cabin SUP Tent is a revolutionary accessory that transforms the way we think about camping and paddle boarding. Inspired by the Bayao people of the Malay Archipelago, who traditionally live on their boats, BAJAO GmbH, a small start-up from Germany, has developed a unique tent designed to be set up on a stand-up paddle board. This innovative design allows the SUP board to serve as a comfortable sleeping platform on a variety of surfaces—whether it's sand, mud, stones, or even directly on the water.

The BAJAO Cabin is not just a tent; it's a versatile camping solution that addresses common issues faced by adventurers. The tent's patented design ensures safety and comfort, making it possible to camp in places where traditional camping might not be allowed. Furthermore, the BAJAO Cabin can also function as a roof tent, adding to its versatility.

With its inventive approach and practical applications, the BAJAO Cabin SUP Tent stands out in the accessories category. The combination of thoughtful design and functionality has earned it the 2024 Supconnect Gear of the Year for Accessories. This award highlights the BAJAO Cabin's impact on enhancing the paddle boarding experience, making it an essential addition for any SUP enthusiast looking to elevate their adventures.

CONGRATULATIONS to all the hardworking folks behind the scenes who continue to produce these amazing products year after year! Stay tuned for the athlete and brand winners...