Blackfin Model XL
- Written by Staff
- Published in Reviews
- Comments::DISQUS_COMMENTS
Only best products in a given category receive “A” grade.
Overview:
Paddle Board Highlights
Who is it for?
If you’re looking for a durable inflatable board that doesn’t break the bank check out the Blackfin Model XL from iRocker. At 11’6” this board is designed with SUP fishing in mind and can handle a solid amount of weight (up to 485 lbs) and take on a bit more distance or adventure if that’s something you’re looking for. The XL is available in six different colors and is packed with features, coming with everything you need to get on the water. At 34” wide, this board is very stable and good for paddlers of all skill levels and sizes. For $1,149, this is a solid package.
First Impressions
The first thing that stood out to us on the Blackfin Model XL was the attention to detail. Everything included in the package: the board, paddle, leash, bag, pump and fins all had the same color coordination across the board. Then, the deckpad even had the Blackfin logo etched in all throughout. You can see the detail and thoughtfulness that went on behind the scenes of this package. The features and add ons that this board has is extensive. The bungee cords on both the tail and nose of the board feature grab handles which is great for kids to hold on to or for better securing your cargo. The added handles on the nose and tail of the board are also super helpful when carrying down to the beach or even using them as attachment points when you’re on the water. Because this board was designed with fishing in mind, you’ve also got a ton of attachment points for fishing mounts, coolers, action cameras and more, making it extremely easy to customize to what you’re looking for. When it comes to durability, the Model XL features a carbon rail that makes the board more durable but it also helps give the board a more rigid feel which does translate into the board being slightly heavier, at around 25lbs. Not too heavy at all but something to keep in mind. For the accessories that are included in the package we were not disappointed. The 3-piece paddle was pretty lightweight and felt comfortable and the 3 lock-in fins included add a nice touch. For the backpack - this was really impressive. The branding was nice, wheels were solid and there were really nice pockets on the front, both zippered and mesh, that are great for any additional items you want to store with your SUP. Additionally, the backpack was really comfortable to carry on your shoulder or back. On the water the XL felt really stable which is what you’d hope for in a board designed for SUP fishing and adventure paddling. It also had a nice glide and felt smooth. Now while this board would be a good option for SUP fishing, don’t let it fool you: it can also double as a great board that the entire family can enjoy when you’re looking for a more chill day on the water. Overall, the thoughtful details on design and packaging, the add ons included and quality of product all point to the Blackfin Model XL earning itself an A-grade.
Benefits
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Primary Use
All AroundPaddle Boards fall into two broad categories, All-Around and Specialty boards, with all-around designed primarily for recreation while speciality boards for top performance in specific disciplines
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Durability
very DurableDurability is largely a result of the board construction and shape, with more durable boards typically carrying more materials (added layers, PVC, etc) and as such adding to the weight.
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Stability
AverageStability is a product of construction and shape, where boards w/ 30”+ wide and 200+ liters in volume offer plenty of stability for your AVG adult while a board under 26” wide is a challenge.
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Glide
AverageGlide is a result of board shape and construction, w/ boards weighing under 30lbs and designed for racing offering best glide while recreational boards normally being on the slow side.
Features
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Dimensions
11'6" x 34" x 6"Industry standard in board dimensions reads: L (length, from nose to tail) x W (width, from rail to rail at midpoint length), and H (height, from top to bottom of board at midpoint length).
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Weight
25.1 lbsStandup paddle boards tend to fall into 4 different weight classes: extremely lightweight (under 20 lbs), lightweight (20-28 lbs), average weight (28-35 lbs), heavy (above 35 lbs).
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Volume
295 LVolume is a key metric to determine how much weight a board can carry. Boards w/ 200+ liters offer most floatation with boards under 150 liters typically for high-performance surf.
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Capacity
485 lbsCapacity is the max cargo weight a stand up paddle board can carry, considering not only the paddler’s weight but whatever else the paddler may choose to carry alongside him/her.
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Add On's
Bungee Nose, Bungee Tail, D Ring, Paddle Included, Leash Included, Camera Holder, Handle on nose, Handle on tail, Fishing rack mounts - carbon railAdd-on’s include bungee cords, a minimalist way to haul things; connexsup, which allows for all sorts of attachments, even fishing rods; and FCS II/Connect, for easy fin instal.
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Handle
StrapHandles directly affect carrying ease, with external grip handles (Liftsup & EZgrab) offering most comfort, Internal Ergo Grip the mid-tier comfort, and box handles as least comfortable.
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Holders
YesFishing rod holders and/or paddle holders can make paddling that much more pleasant, esp. when needing holders for the rod or having a safe place for the paddle during yoga.
Sizes Available
| Length | Width | Thickness | Volume |
|---|
| 11 Feet 6 Inches | 34 Inches | 6 Inches | 295 L |
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For more detailed reviews and to look at similar models, visit Supconnect.com. If you like this review, give us the thumbs up. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments. And make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss the latest news and reviews from Supconnect.