Retrospec Weekender XL Review

Retrospec Weekender XL Review

At first glance, one could assume that Retrospec’s sizable Weekender XL paddle board is designed for taller, heavier riders, paddlers who often feel like average-size iSUPs are maybe too short, narrow, or flexible for them to ever feel totally comfortable on. We’ll agree that’s the primary audience, but also extend it to include, well, literally almost anyone. With a rigid feel, excellent stability, and surprising speed and tracking, we’d note the XL is arguably one of the most versatile offerings in Retrospec’s lineup. We put everyone from a 100-pound college kid to an over 300-pound father-daughter tandem aboard and literally all had a great time.

Sure, there are other paddle boards more specifically tailored to individual rider types (and yes, the XL definitely fits its big-dude niche), but if you’re looking for that one board that can satisfy one and all, the XL just may be the ticket.

Supersize Me

Unpack the 11-foot XL for inflation and it initially appears pretty super in size indeed, but in reality it’s actually six inches shorter than Retrospec’s Weekender Tour. Its “supersizing" comes more in terms of its ample 35” width and 8” depth. Those stats combine to offer a significant 50-percent more internal volume than the original Weekender board. Advertised weight capacity? Retrospec says 400 pounds.

Given the size and potential load above, Retrospec wisely chooses its more robust AerGlide-Fusion construction method. It features 8” drop-stitch fibers (compared the more typical 6”) knitted between top and bottom fabric layers to retain shape once inflated and provide the rigid feel of a conventional SUP. Layers of PVC next coat the top and bottom, followed by an additional layer for added strength and reinforcement. These layers are then likewise joined with a double-layer PVC rail.

Pump the XL up to its minimum-recommended 12-15 PSI and flex is minimal. The included manual pump is double-action, but given the size we’d recommend an electric inflator to handle most of the initial work. Top off with a manual pump if necessary to achieve maximum stiffness.

Feature List

Topping the board is a brushed EVA foam pad, grooved for added comfort and traction. A six-point crisscrossing bungee is ready to anchor an abundance of gear forward. Aft, another four-point bungee can handle any overflow. Velcro-loop straps are placed along the righthand side to secure a paddle when resting or getting your SUP namaste on. EasyLink Connection System loops are ready to secure a carry strap or an optional inflatable kayak seat. Carry handles are located front, center and rear. Below, a trio of fin boxes secure the board’s three slide-in fins. An extra that may go overlooked at first? A threaded M6 action-camera mount is included to allow the rider to capture some unique on-water footage.

Rounding out the package are a three-piece adjustable aluminum paddle that extends up to 84-inches, backpack with both shoulder and waist straps, safety leash, waterproof phone case and repair kit.

Given that this test took place in New York’s Adirondack regions, we’ll give a well-deserved shoutout to the color scheme. The so-called “Bonsai Rock” is guaranteed to fit in nicely at the cabin or lakefront cottage.

Big-Time Ride

As we already kind of spilled the beans on the ride, we’ll confirm it here. For a big board, the XL actually performed well for riders of all sizes. Its rigid construction limits flex, making it a board that feels both ultra-stable for beginners and larger riders but also one that feels like it quickly rewards the efforts of more experienced enthusiasts. The tapered nose-square tail shape glides well through the water, enhanced by the full trio of fins below. Rather than lumbering, this big board also felt rather light and quick. It’s not a speedster by any means, but it’s no oversized slug. It’s what something in this category should be — fun.

As to turning ability, a broader board sometimes needs broader strokes, but the XL still responds more nimbly than we expected. Play with weight placement and paddle stroke for best results.

The XL also invites the kind of fun that doesn’t always happen on smaller boards. A passenger can easily sit in front of you as you paddle; we’d bet a laid-back pet would do the same. As Retrospec included a second paddle in our package (a fortuitous mistake?), we also paired the aforementioned father-daughter combo and watched their initial awkwardness and nervous laughter as they got their balance quickly turn to smiles and coordinated two-person power once they got their paddle strokes in sync.

Those extra two inches of depth are also noticeable and ready to tackle heavier weights without sinking too far into the water.

Final Word

Yes, we went into this review thinking the XL was an inflatable paddle board for those big, tall types. We left confirming that was true, but also impressed with the board’s all-around versatility and, surprisingly, fun ride.

There are definitely paddle boards better suited to more individual desires and that offer better performance (Retrospec offers a variety of other models, from yoga paddle boards to fishing paddle boards to kids’ paddle boards and a whole suite of paddle board accessories), but for those looking for one board that can handle everybody in their family/friend group — and still satisfy the more serious paddler looking to sightsee or get in a workout — this supersized board turned out to be supersized fun.

And that’s a big deal.