In a hurry? Here Are What Matters
Finally, the Blackfin Model XL has everything you’ve ever wanted in a board for terrific fishing, touring, or simply bringing family members or pets along. Because of its large volume and sturdy design, it can accommodate the higher weight.
That’s not all; the board is not only designed to last, but it is also quite stable, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
| WHAT I LIKE | WHAT I DON’T LIKE |
|---|---|
| – Seriously stable – Versatile – Very comfortable deck pad – The side rails make it a more durable exterior and slightly stiffer – High weight capacity – Fast – Makes creating an edge by shifting weight to one side for added speed easy even for beginners – Tracks very well – Plenty of features, accessories, and mounts – Includes everything needed to hit the water – Dual-chamber pump works very well – Bag wheels make transport easier – Comes with a paddle that is great for a kit one | – The kit hand pump does not have the deflation feature – Maneuverability could be improved with a kick pad |
BEST CHOICE FOR:
- Experienced SUP paddlers looking for an iSUP that shines on almost everything
- Paddlers who often paddle with a kid, pet, or plenty of gear
- Beginners who need to feel very stable on the water
- Anglers looking to get into SUP fishing
- Big and heavy paddlers
GREAT IN/FOR:
- Flatwater
- Rivers
- Ocean
- Small wave surfing
- Fishing
SPECIFICATIONS
| Board dimensions | 11’6” x 34” x 6” |
| Board Category | All-Around |
| Max Capacity | 485 lbs |
| Board Weight | 29 lbs |
| Materials | Triple-layer PVC construction, carbon fiber reinforced rails, and woven drop stitch core |
| List Price | (Mid-to-high price range) Check the current price |
| Returns period | 90 days |
| Warranty | 2 years + 1 year for accessories |
PERFORMANCE
MANEUVERABILITY
With its length, turning is a little more difficult because its lengthy length does add resistance.
BLACKFIN Model XL is a huge board, changing directions will need more work. However, you can’t go wrong with it for step-back turns; it handles them well and is nearly as good as the Model X.
In comparison to the Blackfin Model X, the XL model performs doesn’t do well in terms of maneuverability.
SPEED
Although this board was not designed for top speed, it performs well in that regard; it outperforms the Model X and ranks second after the Blackfin Model V.
In any case, a beginner with minimal experience will find shifting their weight to one side and creating a sort of edge with the board much easier. Paddling drag will be reduced as a result of this. It’s one way that efficiency could improve.
Overall, with a maximum weight of 485 pounds, its top speed will surprise many of you.
TRACKING
This SUP board outperforms the smaller Model X because of its longer waterline and a slightly narrower profile. Its trip fin configuration also aids its overall tracking skills.
It’s worth noting that this board is suitable for paddlers who are big paddlers over 200lbs. If you are short, you may find it difficult to keep a precisely vertical stroke unless you can learn to step to one side and create an edge with the board.
STABILITY
There are several reasons why this board is appropriate for beginners or even experienced paddlers who want to bring extra gear with them. When it comes to stability, the BLACKFIN Model XL delivers. It excels in terms of stability due to its large size and construction.
Overall; when compared to smaller boards, one of the biggest advantages you gain from this board is its stability.
FEATURES
CONSTRUCTION
BLACKFIN Model XL has the same construction as the rest of the Blackfin family. We’re talking about three layers of high-quality PVC wrapped around a woven drop stitch core with carbon fiber-reinforced rails. The company is known for producing high-quality work. The overall construction quality of this board appears to be excellent.
DECK PAD
This model, like the rest of the Blackfin lineup, has seen a lot of effort put into the deck area. It is beautifully designed and quite comfortable. Even when the board is submerged in water, the small Blackfin logo and well-spaced lines enable excellent traction, preventing you from slipping. This deck’s color selections are also fantastic.
FINS
You will receive three nylon inflated SUP fins (1 center fin and two side fins) that can be removed to allow you to customize the board based on the places you will be paddling in. Furthermore, thanks to the employment of flip lock technology, the center fin is easy to connect or detach.
ACTION MOUNT
Eight action mounts are included with the model XL board. Cameras, cup holders, and speakers, among other additions, can now be easily secured.
However, we feel it would have been preferable if the rear action mounts had been integrated into the side handles.
CARRY HANDLES
The board comes with three carry handles (2 on the deck and one on the side), making it simple to transport.
BUNGEE AREA
The Model XL, like the rest of the Blackfin lineup, comes with two huge bungee storage sections (one in the back and one in the front). The straps are robust and will safely hold much of your gear, including equipment, on the deck.
D-RINGS
There are 20 D-rings on the deck of this board. These features can be used to secure all of your personal belongings or even for towing. It might also be used with a kayak conversion kit.
ACCESSORIES
PUMP
A twin, triple chamber action hand pump is included in the kit. When compared to other kit pumps, it performs admirably.
However, one enhancement we would like to see is the addition of a deflation valve/setting to the pump. This feature is quite useful because it makes rolling up the board a breeze.
As you are aware, the three stages will not be of much use to you. If you’re a little person, switching to the third level will make sense because it makes dealing with higher pressures much simpler.
Even with this pump, however, an electric pump is still highly suggested.
PADDLE
There’s no reason not to enjoy the carbon fiber paddle that comes with this board. The paddle has a matte carbon fiber shaft and a nylon blade that is robust. While we wish the designers had included a clamp or an inside slot to prevent the shaft from twisting, we think including a paddle in the package is a smart choice. You’ll notice that many high-end boards come with no paddle at all.
BACKPACK
The manufacturer chose a very good bag for this board. It has well-padded straps and a padded back for enhanced comfort. You’ll also find lots of pockets, bungees, and straps to keep everything organized inside. Other great features of this bag include wheels for convenient mobility and zipper side pockets for storing small items. Extra spacious front compartment with a location to keep your pump and top and side handles, among other features.
LEASH
The board comes with a 10′ coiled ankle with a key pocket for added safety while out on the water. It was created with your comfort in mind. It will be padded with Neoprene and will suit any ankle size comfortably. It is also composed of high-quality materials, making it strong and long-lasting. It also has a low drag coefficient.
REPAIR KIT
A repair kit is also included in the package. With multiple patches and a hand wrench included, minor repairs are simple to complete.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
- iRocker branded electric pump and battery
- Kayak conversion kit and seat cushion.
- Fishing Rack
- Hard cooler for supplies
- Vibe waterproof speaker
WARRANTY & RETURNS INFO
The BLACKFIN model XL has a 2-year warranty, a 1-year warranty on accessories, and a 90 days return period.
CONCLUSION
Finally, the Blackfin Model XL has everything you’ve ever wanted in a board for terrific fishing, touring, or simply bringing family members or pets along. Because of its large volume and sturdy design, it can accommodate the higher weight.
That’s not all; the board is not only designed to last, but it is also quite stable, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
FAQ
In hurry? Here Are What Matters
Finally, the Blackfin Model XL has everything you’ve ever wanted in a board for terrific fishing, touring, or simply bringing family members or pets along. Because of its large volume and sturdy design, it can accommodate the higher weight.
That’s not all; the board is not only designed to last, but it is also quite stable, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
BLACKFIN Model V is Best For:
– Experienced SUP paddlers looking for an iSUP that shines on almost everything
– Paddlers who often paddle with a kid, pet, or plenty of gear
– Beginners who need to feel very stable on the water
– Anglers looking to get into SUP fishing
– Big and heavy paddlers
Updated on December 19, 2022 by Ben