Before purchasing your very own SUP Board, it's important to find the right one for you, so trying different ones is always the biggest advice i would give. Don't just buy a board because some one tells you too, test it first :)
However, doing your research and reading reviews also helps a lot! So, here's my handy guide on the Fanatic Pure Air;
However, doing your research and reading reviews also helps a lot! So, here's my handy guide on the Fanatic Pure Air;
- It's not cheap but it's not expensive either, in comparison to other boards out there. You get amazing value for money, great quality and craftsmanship and a board that will last.
- It's an all rounder, which means it's great for anyone and everyone. With upto 20 PSI, it can hold some weight, but if you're worried about anything like that, then definitely come and test it out (email me for a taster if you like).
- At 10'4, this board is a biggie, but surprisingly light, so easy to carry.
- The single layer Drop-Stitch Light Technology provides great quality construction.
- It offers great balance with good glide, and manoeuvrability, so ideal if you fancy a go at surfing, general touring or endurance.
- It's an Inflatable, which means it comes with easy storage so you can take it on holiday with you!
- Comes with a bungee for secure dry bag storage, ideal for those long adventures!
- Detachable fin which allows you to set the fin how you want it (yes, there are different ways to place your fin :p)
- Great surface area, so plenty of room for balance, especially with a Staffy running along it :)
- Comes with a pump, not the easiest to inflate, but gives you a good warm up. Or invest in an electric pump to do all the work for you :)
I use this model in my sessions so feel free to ask for a go when you come along. I'm not on commission or anything like that, just passionate about people enjoying and investing in SUP!
Before i traveled up to Scotland last year, i had a nose online about the best places to launch around Loch Lomond and didn't really find much. Maybe i wasn't looking hard enough, but i thought i'd share my findings with you guys on where i went and the best places i found. Always wear a BA, thems the rules :)
Balloch
Launching from Balloch was really easy. You just head towards the main shopping centre but take the turning for the slipway. There's plenty of sign posts along the way so you can't get lost. Once you're there, you can launch right off the slip and into the stunning waters of Loch Lomond. Be aware of the boat activity on the water though, there's plenty of it.
Luss
Just a few mins around the corner from Balloch is Luss. There is a watersports pop up here and you can hire sup boards and canoes too. Or, you can launch your own. There is a small car parking fee aswell, so take some pennies.
Tarbet
Carrying on North up the A82, you'll find Tarbet Pier. I didnt actually launch from here but we took the dog for a work and seem some kayakers heading out :)
Balmaha
On the western side of the Loch, you'll find Balmaha. You can park in the reserve car park and walk across the road to the slip way. If you don't fancy a paddle, its a perfect spot for a nature walk or a pint.
If you have any questions let me know
Jayne
Balloch
Launching from Balloch was really easy. You just head towards the main shopping centre but take the turning for the slipway. There's plenty of sign posts along the way so you can't get lost. Once you're there, you can launch right off the slip and into the stunning waters of Loch Lomond. Be aware of the boat activity on the water though, there's plenty of it.
Luss
Just a few mins around the corner from Balloch is Luss. There is a watersports pop up here and you can hire sup boards and canoes too. Or, you can launch your own. There is a small car parking fee aswell, so take some pennies.
Tarbet
Carrying on North up the A82, you'll find Tarbet Pier. I didnt actually launch from here but we took the dog for a work and seem some kayakers heading out :)
Balmaha
On the western side of the Loch, you'll find Balmaha. You can park in the reserve car park and walk across the road to the slip way. If you don't fancy a paddle, its a perfect spot for a nature walk or a pint.
If you have any questions let me know
Jayne
Working in conservation, i don’t exactly earn the big bucks. I do however know how to find a bargain. Any Stand Up Paddleboarder will know, there is little joy in pumping your board up. Ever the optimistic, i do think of it as a warm up!
After the first few times, i quickly got bored and went on the lookout for an easier option…the electric pump.
On first glance, you’re looking at £100+ for a decent pump but like i mentioned earlier, i ain’t got that type of cash. So i went on the hunt for a cheaper one and came across this Itiwit electric pump. At £40 i was a bit apprehensive as to its efficiency, and a few other paddlers in my social circle said it’ll be rubbish. Nevertheless, i bought one anyway and i’m glad i did.
I have been using this for just under a year now and it has not let me down yet (fingers crossed). It simply plugs into your lighter socket in your car, you set the PSI then off you go. It pumps the board up within 10 mins to upto 15psi which is handy while you do the other 300 things you have to do. I have definitely got my moneys worth out of this bad boy and i would recommend it.
The only cons; its a bit noisy (but they all are in my experience) and it bounces about like a mexican jumping bean, but if you leave the main part in the car it’ll be fine. Also, if you want any higher than 15psi you’ll have to look elsewhere.
So, all in all, I would definitely recommend getting this pump, its cheap, its handy and it does the job
