16' x 32" Starboard ASTRO…
Submitted by:
guest-paddler
on 8/11/2015
16' x 32" Starboard ASTRO INFLATABLE. This is an inflatable, designed for either really big guys or for many, used as a tandem. It inflates to 18 psi, comes with a great carry bag (that looks like carry on luggage..wheels and all) and a good hand pump. I weigh in at 6'2" and am 305 lbs. The board is plenty stable, is very fast and works great for a single rider or 2 smaller riders (holds up to 380 lbs). After much research, this is perhaps the only stock board made for really big guys (265+)
Pros
Portable, durable, very fast and stable. Great for cruising and an excellent downwinder. It tracks beautifully and for a board of this volume is easily turned. It is super stiff for an inflatable board that long, and is very well constructed.
Cons
Because of the massive volume it Takes a lot of effort to pump it up. however, an electric pump inflates it in about 3-4 minutes.
The only real negative seems to be dealing with Starboard. Getting the board was a nightmare. They completely cut off any direct consumer contact and one must go through a dealer to ask any questions.
Usage
Exercise
Touring
Only having ridden a few…
Submitted by:
guest-paddler
on 7/14/2015
Only having ridden a few boards, I was amazingly impressed by the Astro Touring Board.
The difference in stability and ease of glide through the water was astounding!
I truly could not believe it was an inflatable.
Pros
The design, details and quality.
Ease of inflating, packing and carrying.
Cons
None!
Usage
Cruising reservoirs and rivers.
Starting to race
Great Touring ISUP that can…
Great Touring ISUP that can travel, track and be very durable.
Pros
User friendly, fast, light, fairly straight-tracking and very well outfitted.
Cons
Pricey, needs a longer fin and a tow ring on the nose.
Usage
Snorkeling platform, exercise and touring in salt and freshwater. ACA SUP Instructor.
I have purchased this model…
Submitted by:
guest-paddler
on 3/28/2014
I have purchased this model for myself. As a frequent business traveler, residing in Pennsylvania, most of my SUP opportunities come from business travel to coastal or lake cities. This inflatable SUP fits into a hockey bag and goes with me everywhere. The ride is fast, moderately stable and easy to inflate. Best of all, I can check it in with the airlines and I don't pay extra since it weighs less than 50 pounds, even with all my extra gear.
Pros
Fast, stable, portable. Great for the frequent traveler who needs to launch in a different city every week.
Cons
I'm a bigger guy so even a rigid inflatable will still flex quite a bit when I move on it. Not as fast as the carbon race boards but you are sacrificing some performance for the portability of an inflatable.
Usage
I'm a flat water paddler and hope to get into racing shape. This board allows me to train anywhere, anytime.
