ERS V-II 9-6

Really compact and just enjoyable to use. I thought a 9-6 would feel a bit small to me but you really don't think that out on the water it actually is far more fun. I had an 11'2 starboard astro board which is OK but the build quality on this is better in my opinion and that was pretty stable, but feels sluggish in comparison. Pros Balance is excellent and is very stiff when inflated. Quick with directional changes on the flat water, and I took it on some light surf and was able to catch my first sup waves, which was a great memory. Tracks great in general and I'm 6ft and weight 180lbs and it handles my weight easily. The bump on the tail is nice, I'd never really put my foot back that far but after experimenting with it opens up a few things because there is a real tactile feel when I hit it sliding my foot back. So after a while i got over the nerves of putting weight too far back, or having my foot slip since you are able to feel the back of the board basically because of the bump. Cons Manual pump which is a must when travelling, but the smaller volume means it is pretty easy to get tot he correct PSI. Would love a pump with a rechargeable battery or something, that would be perfect if someone invented it. Usage Mainly just casual paddling. I wanted something really light I could take on a plane, but light enough that I would not be and effort really lugging it around at all. Easily fit in my bag I even took it with me to New Zealand and Australia and was able to just throw it over the shoulder when I wanted too. I don't think i'll go back to anything bigger than this the travel aspect is great.