HIKS Frio

If low budget is what you’re searching for then check out the Frio inflatable SUP by HIKS. This board comes in a complete package with everything you need included for only $319. That’s going to be one of the most low cost, full SUP packages that you’re going to find on the market. The board is best suited for recreational short range paddling in calm waters and is something that should be nice and stable for beginner paddlers.

This is one of those boards where you can't judge it at face value because it is priced at $319 which is VERY low cost. So in the context of the price point you can’t expect to get a paddleboard of top notch quality and premium features. But with that said, you do get a full package that includes the board, paddle, pump, fin, leash, bag and repair kit which is a lot for that price. Now, what are you compromising when you go for that price point? Well, you don't have the reinforcements that you normally have on the standard price point boards. You don't see the additional rail reinforcements, deck reinforcements or on the bottom which means the board is not going to be too durable. So what are some of the other compromises? The bag is very small and simple. The smaller the bag, the more of a struggle it is to get the board back in the bag and we experienced just that as it was somewhat difficult to get the board back in the back after paddling it. It needs to be folded up pretty tightly and neatly so take note of the fold of the board when first unboxing so you can try to roll it up as closely as it was to when you first unrolled it. Now let’s get to the pump. The quality of the pump is another compromise that you’re making when you’re going low cost. The pump included is a single action pump. This means it is not as easy or quick to inflate the board like it is with a dual action or electric pump and it will likely take you longer to get the board inflated. Dual action pumps have become the standard in the industry where it allows you to add more air into the board more quickly. But if you have time on your hands, this is a non-issue. Lastly, let’s talk about the paddle. The paddle has a plastic blade and a metal shaft, likely aluminum which tends to be a bit heavier. Again, not top notch but it works and comes with the package. The benefit of the plastic blade is that it’s going to be pretty durable and should be able to handle a lot of wear and tear. Next, let’s look at the graphics. Aesthetically, the board has a pretty nice, eye-catching design. It’s going for that tribal vibe so if that’s something you like and are attracted to you will probably really enjoy this board design. The colorway is also a nice combo of the gray/white and pops of blue with all the accessories in black which is pretty clean. The HIKS branding isn’t carried out completely through the entire package (no branding on paddle, fin or leash) but again, price point. Lastly, the bells and whistles that are included in the board are basic with a bungee cord on the nose of the board and a few D rings scattered throughout the deck for tie downs. When it comes to performance of the board the first thing we noticed was that it was very stiff when inflated to the recommended 15 PSI which is great. Rigidity is a good thing. On the water, the board felt really stable and was easy to paddle and maneuver. Overall, if you’re looking for a complete SUP package that is at one of the lowest prices you can find the Frio from HIKS could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a board that is stable and great for entry-level paddlers and families but needs to be handled with care.