This is why I love this channel. Rather than showing Starboard's generic 30 second promo vid on repeat while you discuss a board you may or may not have actually used, SUPboarder goes out there and films themselves using the board in a variety of ways, then applies that film to support their talking points. Great job as always! If I didn't get an isup for storage space purposes, this is likely the board I would have gone with. It looked very stable when you were charging the open water chop, and held that bottom turn nicely when surfing.
This is so good to hear Joel. We work really hard to achieve exactly what you've just said. This comment means a lot thank you very much. I will share it with the rest of the team. Thanks again Reuben
Thanks a lot for the info.! I bought the 12'6" x 28". I tried it yesterday up wind and down winth with 6 nots. Amazing board.! I really recommend, super stable and fast.
Awesome review! Looks like a really great board. Been looking at the 11.2 Wopper or a Blend. The Generation adds touring into the, mix. Surfing 12.6 seems tricky but with this design totally doable.
Great Video Reuben. I have been paddling a 14' Gong Perv for the last 5 years on the Irish coastline for long distance, islands crossings and downwind. Even though the shapes are similar the SB seems to have less rocker and more volume on the nose, it is 2 inches narrower. It looks ideal for fast touring and mild downwind runs. Pity Gong doesn't allow reviews of their boards, it is always nice to see people like you and your team comparing different boards.
Thanks SUP Ireland, Yeah Gong are a funny bunch. We have bought boards in the passed off of them but they really don't make it easy. Im looking forward to what SB will bring out next year with Generation sizes! Thanks Reuben
Awesome review Ruben! This had the makings of the most exciting board release in yrs and sounds like Starboard delivered in spades! Its too bad they didn't do as well with the Allstar kneecapping its ease of use for more speed but sounds like 2021's design has it back on track. After paddling for a few yrs on race touring and surf boards this approach makes a ton of sense. A few other BoP /DW style boards out there also really resonate with me SIC's new bullet, One SUP Evo 2, less surf capability but just do a whole lot really well and are fun and easy to enjoy.
Thanks for the comments Chris always good to hear your feedback. But remember Im just the guy in front of the camera, I would always want to thank our riders and and my other SB team mates for making these reviews possible. There's going to be some great boards coming out in the near future and this one has set the bar high! Thanks Reuben
Good in depth review. I pre-ordered the carbon top variant back at the beginning of February. COVID has delayed its production & delivery slightly, but at this stage I should take delivery in early August... can't wait... I have a 23 wide Sunova race board, so looking at the Generation as an entry into open water paddling, surfing, and for longer paddles on the river.
Ordered mine on the strength of this video...... I have seen quite a few of your video reviews and you seem more excited about this board than any of the others reviewed .....it's my first solid board and I think it will be my most used my isups are the fanatic viper air and Jobe Duna adventure ....the one with the side vents and extra little 3 fins near the front .....im not entirely sure what they do though.
this board excited me as I'm looking to expand into different aspects of boarding beyond the intro stuff (even maybe looking at something like the Allstar as an all-around board, but also ones like the Bote Traveller). I'm around 95 kg and currently have a Isle Versa 11'2" x 33". I'm bummed to see my weight pretty much at the limit for the Generation.
Yeah you are on the limit but Harry our blogger used it and got on well with it at 95kg here th-cam.com/video/-ozOaPJpIRU/w-d-xo.html . If you are thinking of using All Stars you should be fine. Have a watch and you can always drop harry a question on the video too? Thanks Reuben
Well I could not resist preorder the 14" of this board. Litetech. First hardboard and hopefully a ticket to more ocean paddling. Thinking a allstar or sprint would be to technical to enjoy atm. Pushing 95kg aswell.... Plus it looks like a board. Some of the higher performance boards looks like standing inside a canoe😀
Hi, i'm a big guy, 6"4 and 120kgish. Pretty comfortable now on my Avanti. Think i need to be looking at the 14x30, or could i get away with the 12'6. Keen for something that handles a bit of touring & fishing, but will still be surfable.
The 14 x 30 would be more stable than the 12'6. If you can move around the board to find the sweet spot, with your size, you should have no problem turning and handling the 14' in small waves. The 12'6 will be more manoeuvrable but you may not get the performance you are after when touring, and fishing especially. Hope this helps. Beau
I got into SUP years ago with the Starboard Big Easy and Starboard Blend. I’m now an intermediate rider and have been loving the look of this board ever since I heard about it. How would it compare to my current boards for touring and speed? I do mostly flat water lake paddleboarding. Thanks in advance for your time and expertise.
The Generation would be much faster and more suited to touring than your current boards. The Big Easy and the Blend are more suited to riding waves, whereas the Generation is happy to do it all and paddles well on longer paddles. If you paddle mostly flat water (calm and not much wind), you might find that the Starboard Touring hard board would be a better choice as it has a flatter rocker which makes it faster. But you''l have fun on the Generation too. Hope this helps and thanks for the comment. Beau
Excellent review. My ride 10 6 popped at a seam this summer. Thinking of getting a hard board as always kept the ride inflated. I'm 95kg. Been round drakes Island in plymouth a couple of times but would call myself a novice rather than intermediate. Was thinking of this board but could be too tricky for me. What do you recommend? Was looking at fanatic fly 11 2 also. Cheers
Hey Pete, This really is a great board and is very easy to paddle. You will be on the limit of the board size wise. But if you get to know the board and practice on flatwater first I'm sure you will soon get the hang of it. A longer board will really take you places faster.The fly is also a nice board but can't really be compared to the generation. The generation will give you so much more speed and the ability to paddle in lots of different water conditions. If you feel that SUP is really the sport for you than investing in a board like the generation will be a good move. I hope that helps Reuben
Hi Peter, thanks and great question. The surfing element really throws a spanner in the works for crossover inflatables as longer iSUPs will tend to bend and not perform great in the waves. So that immediately lessens the length which influences how well the boards glide for racing and touring. Our advice would be to look at boards that incorporate better stiffness like the Starboard Airline, but really a composite board is the only way to go if you're after rocker and performance for a range of different conditions. We just finished our SUPboarder Pro iSUP Touring Test which you can check out here: supboardermag.com/2021/08/16/inflatable-touring-test-2021-supboarder-pro-head-to-head/ Very touring specific, but you get a good understanding of the widths and lengths needed to suit your preferences. Hope this helps, Beau
@@SUPboardermag Thank you for the detailed answer. If I were to pick the Starboard Airline, what would be the ideal length and width if I were to use the board for racing and touring (giving up surfing in this case)? I could be about 80 to 85kg (about 190 lbs max although I am at 175lbs at the moment and 175cm or 5’9” in height)
Hi Peter. It's mostly dependant on your ability level. If you're looking at the 12'6 size, then the 27" would be great for touring (wider for more gear) and also racing. If you're thinking 14' (which would be faster for racing and touring) then the 28" wide is great for touring and carrying gear - but if you're not carrying gear go for the 26". Of course, if you're fairly new to paddling, then the wider shapes are better. Hope this helps. Beau
@@SUPboardermag Thanks! I’m a beginner-intermediate at this point but I just wanted to push myself a bit and get something I will enjoy for longer. I am getting fairly comfortable with the back step turn both ways, but I have been mostly using my Costco board (body glove). I am guessing the Starboard would be more stable even when it’s slightly narrower. I am now considering the Starboard touring board (12’6” x 30” x 6”) deluxe double chamber construction for safety and maneuverability while not sacrificing speed too much. What do you think about this vs the airline at my level? Thanks again
A very good choice too Peter. The Touring boards are very popular and can be overlapped with other disciplines too. If you're set on doing some touring and carrying gear, then the Touring range would be best. Of course, the airline is the racing equivalent so really depends on your needs.
Very informative review; thank you! I see that there is a 14' option for 2021. Do you anticipate that the many positives from your review of the 12'6" will apply equally to the 14'? (I'm thinking about pre-ordering the board but as a heavier rider would want the 14' version.)
Hey Jessica, Yeah the principles and feeling of the board will be the same. The 14' will be a faster board to paddle. It will surf, but not as well as the 12'6 (in the bigger waves anyway). It will carry you with more glide and speed. A simple way to look at the two is... 14' better for long distance paddling, downwing paddle, fitness and small surf. 12'6 still will paddle longer distances and be good for downwinding, fitness, but better for someone who wants to surf more and in bigger waves. Stability on the water and rider weights for the boards will stay about the same because the width is still 28"! I hope that helps and makes sense? thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Thank you very much for the response! I am currently paddling a 12'6" Starboard Touring. It has been a great first board but I already know I want something a bit faster and more versatile for next year. The 14' Generation seems like it might fit the bill....
Excellent review, I’ve been going back and forth with buying a 2022 Starboard Generation or the infinity e ticket. I do mainly touring and love open ocean conditions and like to go fast but not a racer. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Hey Levi, this is a good question. I feel both boards will work well for what you want and the only real difference I can see (because I haven't used a E-ticket yet!) Is the the Generation with it's narrow tail it will offer you better performance when riding bumps in surf or downwinding. The E T may be a little faster because of it tail shape. If you are more focused on open sea paddling more, I would go for the Generation... But if you want to do a bit more racing I feel the E-ticket will be the faster board and the one to go for. Any help? Thanks Reuben
Great review. Thank you. Looks like a board that would suit pretty much everyone except the pure racers. I’m currently on an airline isup 14x28. Would the 12’6” generation perform as well on flat water (or better given its bottom shape), whilst giving me more options for the ocean? Seems like this board could be faster, more versatile in open sea and slightly smaller and therefore easier to store than a 14 hardboard. Or maybe I’m asking too much! Ps subscribed to your supboarder pro. Great work guys.
Hey Alexander thanks for the sub. 👍🏼 I think the Generation really does do the job so well. Put it this way, if your board and the Generation were sat on the beach ready to paddle i would pick the generation every day. I guess your 14 will be faster on the really flat water days but any chop and the generation will take it. One board that does it all. Thanks Reuben
I surf a 10 6 with no center fin, only 4.5 sides. It allows you to you stand way up on the board and trim super fast. Surfs like a dream up to 6foot waves. I wonder how this will handle that setup, especially with the 6 inch rails..
@@SUPboardermag for sure, maybe a 2.5" center nubster will give it some traction...only concern is that the top is convex after the traction pad....maybe a some wax toward the nose will make it more interesting... =)
Hey Ruben. Thanks for yet another great video. How would you compare the Generation vs. the JP Hybrid which you praise in another video. When should one buy the Generation and when to select the Hybrid? Thanks
This is a great question. We have actually just bought a Generation and Hybrid to put into the SUPboarder Pro test to answer exactly this. I still love the JP but feel the Generation might take the edge for many paddlers. BUT... the JP's are wider which will offer a better board for heavier paddlers. So depending on your weight the JP will still be a great board, also its shorter length will be a big bonus to many padders too. Look out for the full test in the next month. Thanks and i hope that helped a little? Reuben
Thanks. I will look forward to this comparison next month. At 83 kilo i might not be a heavy rider. However I like the length and width of the JP for the waves (where I’m a newby) and the size of the Generation for down wind, turing etc. And I want to do both disciplines. Maybe the choice is not that simple?
Yeah I see your dilemma. I think you will get on with both board really. Its a tough one because there will be pros and cons to both boards for you. You need a JP generation 12'x30" lol...
Great review! I always use a bag for my customer surfboards but don't use a bag for my isup. Do Starboard have a board and bag package for the Generation? I wouldn't be too happy with a £1599 board unprotected on my roof rack!
nice review, great looking board. Would this be your top choice for all around fun paddling in a variety of conditions? Would this have better significantly glide than an inflatable starboard touring 12"6' or would they be pretty similar? I paddle mostly flatwater and rivers some bays and am looking for a faster board than a traditional all around board but isn’t too hard to turn on skinny/shallow rivers. thanks!
Hey DJ, I feel on flat water they would have a similar amount of glide. But as soon as any slight chop becomes involved the generation will be a much faster and easier board to paddle. If I had a choice I would choose the generation over the inflatable. But obviously the inflatable has many other pros. Thanks Reuben
Hi Kim, we did review the JP hybrid last year which also works in very similar conditions. th-cam.com/video/X_JMfPaOtCU/w-d-xo.html Possibly not as nice to use as the Starboard but we will be also doing a head-to-head test of these two boards in the next coming months on SUPboarder Pro too. Thanks Reuben
Is the lite Tech exactly the same just different construction? Idk if its because of the colour but the lite looks wider and I'm not sure if it has the raised kick pad??
Local dealer says a 14x28 is on its way. Maybe this winter. But these reports below of a super fragile finish makes it hard to pull the trigger on a preorder..
Yeah I have just been going through the comments today. It really feels to me it's very much like a performance race board and needs to be treated in the same way. Definitely the lite tech construction is a more solid construction that weighs more. But On reflection after this review it definitely sounds like more damage is getting done to and from the water. But this is something that we didn't notice during the test window. I think we need to keep forwards for longer future :-) Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Thanks for the reply! The lite tech would be my option. Would be stored at the ceiling in a shed, then transported on a roof rack to the paddling location. Been looking for a good priced board that can handle more open ocean than my 12,6" astro touring isup. But durability is a key point for me in this price range. Maybe in a few years we will see some sort of hybrid isups that perform like a composite😀 Never worried about bumping my isup against rocks or tarmack.
@@thomasreynolds9165 think about how you are going to get a 13ft board on and of your ceiling and how you are getting it in the shed, I used to put mine in a workshop and had to go through a doorway. I found out the hard way that any scuff shows. Suggest roof pads for your roof bars that go over the end of the bars, padded buckle straps, think about what terrain you are going through, where you put the board down, etc, entry and exit points etc. What I'm trying to say is it is not a board you can be careless with and even with being careful you are going to get dings. The paint scuffs easily, even on the sand. Rail guards will help reduce damage. It is a great feeling to be on the board in the water. I've been out in some nasty cross chop and it stood up well. Its a great touring board as well. I think starboard should make it a bit tougher though. Maybe a decent clear coat and tougher tail, nose and rails. Drop the weight difference as an advertising ploy and market the stiffness. Oh yes I tried to get a board bag deal through the retailer but they weren't interested, they supplied a lower quality leash that wasn't starboard and was missing the screws for the shoulder strap. It has become a real pain as they aren't responding as I have a warranty issue. One of the shoulder strap screw holes is letting water in.
@@swanagediverdan Thanks for the input! 3 doorways to the storage. But they are all lined up in a straight line through the house. But yes, there is a lot to think about. In and out of the water is a good point. You could say that I am looking for hardboard performance in the water for smaller downwind runs, but willing to sacrifice weight and glide if that offers more durability. A top end hardboard shape wrapped in isup outer layer? A board for the weekend warrior😀 But looks like Starboard is on to something using elements of their top end range in a more amateur friendly package.
@@thomasreynolds9165 yes this is true. TBH the Lite Tech boards I felt have always been very good. But like you said you are still going to have to look after them compared to a iSUP. Reuben
Great review and kept me going until my carbon top arrived! What’s the best fin for touring/slower speed in your opinion? When I’m out with the kids I need to dial it back! Thanks again - great work.
I was thinking that the SIC Sonic was going to be my first board, paddling in the lakes of the Adirondacks, NYS. I'm about 200lbs, but will hopefully continue to lighten up;) I'm sure this is an upgrade over the entry level Sonic, but for flat water cruising/touring mostly, is this still better than the Sonic. For a bit more $$, would you suggest the Generation over the Sonic?
Hey, the Generation has got a much softer nose entry compared to the sonic. This will mean it will handle open water and waves better. The sonic will be easier to paddle in a straight line and may even offer a bit more speed for it length. The generation I feel will be a board that will take you out in more conditions and handle all the rough stuff much better. The sonic will still work really well in flat water conditions for cruising, racing, fitness and touring. I hope that helps a bit thanks Reuben
I'm thinking about the same boards. I'm also upstate and deciding between the Sonic and spending a bit more on the Generation for better ocean performance (also not sure 12'6" or 14'). What'd you end up deciding?
Hi Sejal, We haven't used the Bote board but it looks like a very different shape. The nose would suggest that it wouldn't surf at all like the Starboard. As for 2 people?? It depends what you mean by 2? One person sat on the front very still yes possible, but paddling together like a tandem. This will be a little more tricky! Thanks Reuben
Hi guys. I’ve been doing a lot more distance and down-winding on my Starboard Drive and really want to get into that side of things a bit more. I really liked the Allstar for that would you recommend this board over the allstar? Cheers Chris
Hey Chris. If you are not interested in getting into racing go for the Generation! I love this board and I feel it offers a lot more versatility than the all-star. The AS is faster but if that isn't the main important factor the Gen is a real winner. thanks Reuben
I'm glad it's not just me! nose barely touched the ground yesterday when I was sliding fin back - chip & paint seems to crumble off like dust - same on the tail put it down small knock - chip. Looks great but agree it's like its not been sealed. Board bag ordered!
It's supposed to be brushed effect but the finish isn't durable. I did a sand skid and it's marked the hull. Lots of other bits marked and I've only used it 4 times. It really is a great board except for the finish. I wonder what the starboard rep has to say?
Hey guys is this happening all over the board or just the bottom? It is like a brushed carbon type finish on the bottom ( I had an older Pro shape the same) This type of finish really keeps the weight down. As we said in the video we had this board for over a month and it still looked great at the end of testing but I guess we did always put it down on sand or grass (but no bag) . I guess on refection we should try and damage the boards we review in the future to test these facts?? Not sure whats is best or how to highlight board constructions? Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Hi Reuben - my damage is on top of the nose and under the tail - on both occasions it went down with the lightest of bumps and paint came away so easily and left a dusty chalky residue on the surface it touched. The nose crack was particularly annoying - it literally dropped a few cm whilst I was pushing the fin to the rear of the box, it was already laying down so was just a short distance for the nose to hit the tarmac with very little pressure applied! The paint coat is quite thin so the white underneath really stands out - especially on the tail damage- a few lumps also came out of the I noticed yesterday (a couple of days after damage occurred) - I'll email you pics if you can let me know an address?. For a board thats touted as a touring option it's not really hard wearing enough IMO. Most of my 'put ins' are via a car park or the like so needs to go down on a hard/gravel surface etc - expect that will apply to a lot of others as well. So the only option is to buy a board bag and treat it with kid gloves from the get go. An impossible task long term I think if you want to keep it looking pristine - I've got rail tape on the sides - shame they don't do a fully taped solution that covers all the edges. It's a really light board - I'd happily entertain the minimal weight gain for a clear coat finish.
I know Mark this board is sold so well. What Country are you in? I know the UK should of had a delivery of Generations at the start of August. Thanks Reuben
This is why I love this channel. Rather than showing Starboard's generic 30 second promo vid on repeat while you discuss a board you may or may not have actually used, SUPboarder goes out there and films themselves using the board in a variety of ways, then applies that film to support their talking points. Great job as always! If I didn't get an isup for storage space purposes, this is likely the board I would have gone with. It looked very stable when you were charging the open water chop, and held that bottom turn nicely when surfing.
This is so good to hear Joel. We work really hard to achieve exactly what you've just said. This comment means a lot thank you very much. I will share it with the rest of the team. Thanks again Reuben
Thanks a lot for the info.!
I bought the 12'6" x 28".
I tried it yesterday up wind and down winth with 6 nots.
Amazing board.!
I really recommend, super stable and fast.
Glad you're happy with it. Happy paddling Reuben
Ready to see the review of the 14’ please!
Yes it needs to be done for sure.
Awesome review! Looks like a really great board. Been looking at the 11.2 Wopper or a Blend. The Generation adds touring into the, mix. Surfing 12.6 seems tricky but with this design totally doable.
It could be a great board for you.
Great Video Reuben. I have been paddling a 14' Gong Perv for the last 5 years on the Irish coastline for long distance, islands crossings and downwind. Even though the shapes are similar the SB seems to have less rocker and more volume on the nose, it is 2 inches narrower. It looks ideal for fast touring and mild downwind runs. Pity Gong doesn't allow reviews of their boards, it is always nice to see people like you and your team comparing different boards.
Thanks SUP Ireland, Yeah Gong are a funny bunch. We have bought boards in the passed off of them but they really don't make it easy. Im looking forward to what SB will bring out next year with Generation sizes! Thanks Reuben
surely I'm here the 6th or so time to look at this video. Thanks for your good videos
Glad to hear you like the videos. Thanks, Beau
Awesome review Ruben! This had the makings of the most exciting board release in yrs and sounds like Starboard delivered in spades! Its too bad they didn't do as well with the Allstar kneecapping its ease of use for more speed but sounds like 2021's design has it back on track. After paddling for a few yrs on race touring and surf boards this approach makes a ton of sense. A few other BoP /DW style boards out there also really resonate with me SIC's new bullet, One SUP Evo 2, less surf capability but just do a whole lot really well and are fun and easy to enjoy.
Thanks for the comments Chris always good to hear your feedback. But remember Im just the guy in front of the camera, I would always want to thank our riders and and my other SB team mates for making these reviews possible.
There's going to be some great boards coming out in the near future and this one has set the bar high! Thanks Reuben
Good in depth review. I pre-ordered the carbon top variant back at the beginning of February. COVID has delayed its production & delivery slightly, but at this stage I should take delivery in early August... can't wait... I have a 23 wide Sunova race board, so looking at the Generation as an entry into open water paddling, surfing, and for longer paddles on the river.
OMG you will love it. You will be one happy paddler 😀.
Ordered mine on the strength of this video...... I have seen quite a few of your video reviews and you seem more excited about this board than any of the others reviewed .....it's my first solid board and I think it will be my most used my isups are the fanatic viper air and Jobe Duna adventure ....the one with the side vents and extra little 3 fins near the front .....im not entirely sure what they do though.
We are sure you will love it
this board excited me as I'm looking to expand into different aspects of boarding beyond the intro stuff (even maybe looking at something like the Allstar as an all-around board, but also ones like the Bote Traveller). I'm around 95 kg and currently have a Isle Versa 11'2" x 33". I'm bummed to see my weight pretty much at the limit for the Generation.
Yeah you are on the limit but Harry our blogger used it and got on well with it at 95kg here th-cam.com/video/-ozOaPJpIRU/w-d-xo.html . If you are thinking of using All Stars you should be fine. Have a watch and you can always drop harry a question on the video too? Thanks Reuben
Well I could not resist preorder the 14" of this board. Litetech. First hardboard and hopefully a ticket to more ocean paddling. Thinking a allstar or sprint would be to technical to enjoy atm. Pushing 95kg aswell.... Plus it looks like a board. Some of the higher performance boards looks like standing inside a canoe😀
Sounds like a good move Thomas 👍🏼
I’m in the same boat. Any news of the delivery date Thomas? Retailer not responding to emails at present
@@THEH0FF69 When ordering 3 months ago delivery was estimated January. Not been in contact with them since. Norwegian retailer.
did u get your board? :D
@@nickynielsen8806 Hi! Yes board arrived 3 weeks ago! Almost 6 months delayed.
Hi, i'm a big guy, 6"4 and 120kgish. Pretty comfortable now on my Avanti. Think i need to be looking at the 14x30, or could i get away with the 12'6. Keen for something that handles a bit of touring & fishing, but will still be surfable.
The 14 x 30 would be more stable than the 12'6. If you can move around the board to find the sweet spot, with your size, you should have no problem turning and handling the 14' in small waves. The 12'6 will be more manoeuvrable but you may not get the performance you are after when touring, and fishing especially. Hope this helps. Beau
I got into SUP years ago with the Starboard Big Easy and Starboard Blend. I’m now an intermediate rider and have been loving the look of this board ever since I heard about it. How would it compare to my current boards for touring and speed? I do mostly flat water lake paddleboarding. Thanks in advance for your time and expertise.
The Generation would be much faster and more suited to touring than your current boards. The Big Easy and the Blend are more suited to riding waves, whereas the Generation is happy to do it all and paddles well on longer paddles. If you paddle mostly flat water (calm and not much wind), you might find that the Starboard Touring hard board would be a better choice as it has a flatter rocker which makes it faster. But you''l have fun on the Generation too. Hope this helps and thanks for the comment. Beau
His legs and feet went into the board blender!
Looks sick. Send me one I'll surf it in our next 2m swell!:) Looks amazingly fun and versatile
Awesome! The board is really fun. Thanks, Beau
Excellent review. My ride 10 6 popped at a seam this summer. Thinking of getting a hard board as always kept the ride inflated. I'm 95kg. Been round drakes Island in plymouth a couple of times but would call myself a novice rather than intermediate. Was thinking of this board but could be too tricky for me. What do you recommend? Was looking at fanatic fly 11 2 also. Cheers
Hey Pete, This really is a great board and is very easy to paddle. You will be on the limit of the board size wise. But if you get to know the board and practice on flatwater first I'm sure you will soon get the hang of it. A longer board will really take you places faster.The fly is also a nice board but can't really be compared to the generation. The generation will give you so much more speed and the ability to paddle in lots of different water conditions. If you feel that SUP is really the sport for you than investing in a board like the generation will be a good move. I hope that helps Reuben
Love your reviews. What would be the equivalent if I were to choose an inflatable SUP for racing, touring, and surfing?
Hi Peter, thanks and great question. The surfing element really throws a spanner in the works for crossover inflatables as longer iSUPs will tend to bend and not perform great in the waves. So that immediately lessens the length which influences how well the boards glide for racing and touring. Our advice would be to look at boards that incorporate better stiffness like the Starboard Airline, but really a composite board is the only way to go if you're after rocker and performance for a range of different conditions.
We just finished our SUPboarder Pro iSUP Touring Test which you can check out here: supboardermag.com/2021/08/16/inflatable-touring-test-2021-supboarder-pro-head-to-head/
Very touring specific, but you get a good understanding of the widths and lengths needed to suit your preferences.
Hope this helps, Beau
@@SUPboardermag Thank you for the detailed answer. If I were to pick the Starboard Airline, what would be the ideal length and width if I were to use the board for racing and touring (giving up surfing in this case)? I could be about 80 to 85kg (about 190 lbs max although I am at 175lbs at the moment and 175cm or 5’9” in height)
Hi Peter. It's mostly dependant on your ability level. If you're looking at the 12'6 size, then the 27" would be great for touring (wider for more gear) and also racing. If you're thinking 14' (which would be faster for racing and touring) then the 28" wide is great for touring and carrying gear - but if you're not carrying gear go for the 26". Of course, if you're fairly new to paddling, then the wider shapes are better. Hope this helps. Beau
@@SUPboardermag Thanks! I’m a beginner-intermediate at this point but I just wanted to push myself a bit and get something I will enjoy for longer. I am getting fairly comfortable with the back step turn both ways, but I have been mostly using my Costco board (body glove). I am guessing the Starboard would be more stable even when it’s slightly narrower. I am now considering the Starboard touring board (12’6” x 30” x 6”) deluxe double chamber construction for safety and maneuverability while not sacrificing speed too much. What do you think about this vs the airline at my level? Thanks again
A very good choice too Peter. The Touring boards are very popular and can be overlapped with other disciplines too. If you're set on doing some touring and carrying gear, then the Touring range would be best. Of course, the airline is the racing equivalent so really depends on your needs.
Very informative review; thank you! I see that there is a 14' option for 2021. Do you anticipate that the many positives from your review of the 12'6" will apply equally to the 14'? (I'm thinking about pre-ordering the board but as a heavier rider would want the 14' version.)
Hey Jessica, Yeah the principles and feeling of the board will be the same. The 14' will be a faster board to paddle. It will surf, but not as well as the 12'6 (in the bigger waves anyway). It will carry you with more glide and speed.
A simple way to look at the two is... 14' better for long distance paddling, downwing paddle, fitness and small surf.
12'6 still will paddle longer distances and be good for downwinding, fitness, but better for someone who wants to surf more and in bigger waves.
Stability on the water and rider weights for the boards will stay about the same because the width is still 28"! I hope that helps and makes sense? thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Thank you very much for the response! I am currently paddling a 12'6" Starboard Touring. It has been a great first board but I already know I want something a bit faster and more versatile for next year. The 14' Generation seems like it might fit the bill....
Yeah it will open up more paddling for you for sure. Way better in the open sea conditions then the Touring.
Excellent review, I’ve been going back and forth with buying a 2022 Starboard Generation or the infinity e ticket. I do mainly touring and love open ocean conditions and like to go fast but not a racer. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Hey Levi, this is a good question.
I feel both boards will work well for what you want and the only real difference I can see (because I haven't used a E-ticket yet!) Is the the Generation with it's narrow tail it will offer you better performance when riding bumps in surf or downwinding. The E T may be a little faster because of it tail shape.
If you are more focused on open sea paddling more, I would go for the Generation... But if you want to do a bit more racing I feel the E-ticket will be the faster board and the one to go for.
Any help? Thanks Reuben
Great review. Thank you. Looks like a board that would suit pretty much everyone except the pure racers. I’m currently on an airline isup 14x28. Would the 12’6” generation perform as well on flat water (or better given its bottom shape), whilst giving me more options for the ocean? Seems like this board could be faster, more versatile in open sea and slightly smaller and therefore easier to store than a 14 hardboard. Or maybe I’m asking too much! Ps subscribed to your supboarder pro. Great work guys.
Hey Alexander thanks for the sub. 👍🏼 I think the Generation really does do the job so well. Put it this way, if your board and the Generation were sat on the beach ready to paddle i would pick the generation every day. I guess your 14 will be faster on the really flat water days but any chop and the generation will take it. One board that does it all. Thanks Reuben
I surf a 10 6 with no center fin, only 4.5 sides. It allows you to you stand way up on the board and trim super fast. Surfs like a dream up to 6foot waves. I wonder how this will handle that setup, especially with the 6 inch rails..
Interesting stuff, it will probably feel a little bit skatey
@@SUPboardermag for sure, maybe a 2.5" center nubster will give it some traction...only concern is that the top is convex after the traction pad....maybe a some wax toward the nose will make it more interesting... =)
cool
Hey Ruben. Thanks for yet another great video. How would you compare the Generation vs. the JP Hybrid which you praise in another video. When should one buy the Generation and when to select the Hybrid? Thanks
This is a great question.
We have actually just bought a Generation and Hybrid to put into the SUPboarder Pro test to answer exactly this. I still love the JP but feel the Generation might take the edge for many paddlers. BUT... the JP's are wider which will offer a better board for heavier paddlers. So depending on your weight the JP will still be a great board, also its shorter length will be a big bonus to many padders too. Look out for the full test in the next month. Thanks and i hope that helped a little? Reuben
Thanks. I will look forward to this comparison next month. At 83 kilo i might not be a heavy rider. However I like the length and width of the JP for the waves (where I’m a newby) and the size of the Generation for down wind, turing etc. And I want to do both disciplines. Maybe the choice is not that simple?
Yeah I see your dilemma. I think you will get on with both board really. Its a tough one because there will be pros and cons to both boards for you.
You need a JP generation 12'x30" lol...
Great review! I always use a bag for my customer surfboards but don't use a bag for my isup. Do Starboard have a board and bag package for the Generation? I wouldn't be too happy with a £1599 board unprotected on my roof rack!
Hey David. Yes Starboard do have bags to fit the Generation but your local shop should be able to sort you out a package I'm sure. Thanks Reuben
nice review, great looking board. Would this be your top choice for all around fun paddling in a variety of conditions? Would this have better significantly glide than an inflatable starboard touring 12"6' or would they be pretty similar? I paddle mostly flatwater and rivers some bays and am looking for a faster board than a traditional all around board but isn’t too hard to turn on skinny/shallow rivers. thanks!
Hey DJ, I feel on flat water they would have a similar amount of glide. But as soon as any slight chop becomes involved the generation will be a much faster and easier board to paddle. If I had a choice I would choose the generation over the inflatable. But obviously the inflatable has many other pros. Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag thanks! Is carbon top or lite tech more durable?
Great review. It looks like it’s ticking all my boxes. Are there any similar makes you’d suggest to compare?
Hi Kim, we did review the JP hybrid last year which also works in very similar conditions. th-cam.com/video/X_JMfPaOtCU/w-d-xo.html Possibly not as nice to use as the Starboard but we will be also doing a head-to-head test of these two boards in the next coming months on SUPboarder Pro too. Thanks Reuben
Is the lite Tech exactly the same just different construction? Idk if its because of the colour but the lite looks wider and I'm not sure if it has the raised kick pad??
Hey Pedro.
Shape is the same.
Carbon Top will be stiff and lighter.
Lite tech has no kick pad!
Hope that helps Reuben
Local dealer says a 14x28 is on its way. Maybe this winter. But these reports below of a super fragile finish makes it hard to pull the trigger on a preorder..
Yeah I have just been going through the comments today. It really feels to me it's very much like a performance race board and needs to be treated in the same way. Definitely the lite tech construction is a more solid construction that weighs more. But On reflection after this review it definitely sounds like more damage is getting done to and from the water. But this is something that we didn't notice during the test window. I think we need to keep forwards for longer future :-) Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Thanks for the reply! The lite tech would be my option. Would be stored at the ceiling in a shed, then transported on a roof rack to the paddling location. Been looking for a good priced board that can handle more open ocean than my 12,6" astro touring isup. But durability is a key point for me in this price range. Maybe in a few years we will see some sort of hybrid isups that perform like a composite😀 Never worried about bumping my isup against rocks or tarmack.
@@thomasreynolds9165 think about how you are going to get a 13ft board on and of your ceiling and how you are getting it in the shed, I used to put mine in a workshop and had to go through a doorway. I found out the hard way that any scuff shows. Suggest roof pads for your roof bars that go over the end of the bars, padded buckle straps, think about what terrain you are going through, where you put the board down, etc, entry and exit points etc. What I'm trying to say is it is not a board you can be careless with and even with being careful you are going to get dings. The paint scuffs easily, even on the sand. Rail guards will help reduce damage. It is a great feeling to be on the board in the water. I've been out in some nasty cross chop and it stood up well. Its a great touring board as well. I think starboard should make it a bit tougher though. Maybe a decent clear coat and tougher tail, nose and rails. Drop the weight difference as an advertising ploy and market the stiffness. Oh yes I tried to get a board bag deal through the retailer but they weren't interested, they supplied a lower quality leash that wasn't starboard and was missing the screws for the shoulder strap. It has become a real pain as they aren't responding as I have a warranty issue. One of the shoulder strap screw holes is letting water in.
@@swanagediverdan Thanks for the input! 3 doorways to the storage. But they are all lined up in a straight line through the house. But yes, there is a lot to think about. In and out of the water is a good point. You could say that I am looking for hardboard performance in the water for smaller downwind runs, but willing to sacrifice weight and glide if that offers more durability. A top end hardboard shape wrapped in isup outer layer? A board for the weekend warrior😀 But looks like Starboard is on to something using elements of their top end range in a more amateur friendly package.
@@thomasreynolds9165 yes this is true. TBH the Lite Tech boards I felt have always been very good. But like you said you are still going to have to look after them compared to a iSUP. Reuben
Great review and kept me going until my carbon top arrived! What’s the best fin for touring/slower speed in your opinion? When I’m out with the kids I need to dial it back! Thanks again - great work.
thanks Nick. A starboard to Dol-Fin-22 would be great for that. Or the weed fin too. Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Thanks Ruben, one thing I have experienced is the paint work is pretty easy to chip - on the look out for touch up paint already!
@@nicholaswatts01 How are you getting on now with the board?
I was thinking that the SIC Sonic was going to be my first board, paddling in the lakes of the Adirondacks, NYS. I'm about 200lbs, but will hopefully continue to lighten up;) I'm sure this is an upgrade over the entry level Sonic, but for flat water cruising/touring mostly, is this still better than the Sonic. For a bit more $$, would you suggest the Generation over the Sonic?
Hey, the Generation has got a much softer nose entry compared to the sonic. This will mean it will handle open water and waves better. The sonic will be easier to paddle in a straight line and may even offer a bit more speed for it length. The generation I feel will be a board that will take you out in more conditions and handle all the rough stuff much better. The sonic will still work really well in flat water conditions for cruising, racing, fitness and touring. I hope that helps a bit thanks Reuben
I'm thinking about the same boards. I'm also upstate and deciding between the Sonic and spending a bit more on the Generation for better ocean performance (also not sure 12'6" or 14'). What'd you end up deciding?
BE good to compare it to the sunova point break that Rich Weeks paddles looks a similar kind of ethos
Good call we will try and get one. 👍🏼
Great review! Is it possible for two people to be on this board? Each around 110 pounds? Also would you recommend this over the bote HD paddleboard?
Hi Sejal, We haven't used the Bote board but it looks like a very different shape. The nose would suggest that it wouldn't surf at all like the Starboard. As for 2 people?? It depends what you mean by 2? One person sat on the front very still yes possible, but paddling together like a tandem. This will be a little more tricky! Thanks Reuben
Hi guys. I’ve been doing a lot more distance and down-winding on my Starboard Drive and really want to get into that side of things a bit more. I really liked the Allstar for that would you recommend this board over the allstar? Cheers Chris
Hey Chris. If you are not interested in getting into racing go for the Generation! I love this board and I feel it offers a lot more versatility than the all-star. The AS is faster but if that isn't the main important factor the Gen is a real winner. thanks Reuben
SUPboarder thanks mate. Great review as always for
Thank you x
Between this and hypr 12 gun. Which ?
Super informative as always, this is looking like my next board I reckon. Thanks muchly!
Good stuff Matt
What's the finish on it? I've just got one and it marks so easily. It's like it's missing a clear coat.
I'm glad it's not just me! nose barely touched the ground yesterday when I was sliding fin back - chip & paint seems to crumble off like dust - same on the tail put it down small knock - chip. Looks great but agree it's like its not been sealed. Board bag ordered!
It's supposed to be brushed effect but the finish isn't durable. I did a sand skid and it's marked the hull. Lots of other bits marked and I've only used it 4 times. It really is a great board except for the finish. I wonder what the starboard rep has to say?
Hey guys is this happening all over the board or just the bottom? It is like a brushed carbon type finish on the bottom ( I had an older Pro shape the same) This type of finish really keeps the weight down. As we said in the video we had this board for over a month and it still looked great at the end of testing but I guess we did always put it down on sand or grass (but no bag) . I guess on refection we should try and damage the boards we review in the future to test these facts?? Not sure whats is best or how to highlight board constructions? Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Hi Reuben - my damage is on top of the nose and under the tail - on both occasions it went down with the lightest of bumps and paint came away so easily and left a dusty chalky residue on the surface it touched. The nose crack was particularly annoying - it literally dropped a few cm whilst I was pushing the fin to the rear of the box, it was already laying down so was just a short distance for the nose to hit the tarmac with very little pressure applied! The paint coat is quite thin so the white underneath really stands out - especially on the tail damage- a few lumps also came out of the I noticed yesterday (a couple of days after damage occurred) - I'll email you pics if you can let me know an address?. For a board thats touted as a touring option it's not really hard wearing enough IMO. Most of my 'put ins' are via a car park or the like so needs to go down on a hard/gravel surface etc - expect that will apply to a lot of others as well. So the only option is to buy a board bag and treat it with kid gloves from the get go. An impossible task long term I think if you want to keep it looking pristine - I've got rail tape on the sides - shame they don't do a fully taped solution that covers all the edges. It's a really light board - I'd happily entertain the minimal weight gain for a clear coat finish.
@@swanagediverdan I've mailed the Starboard UK distributor so will report back
I been trying to buy a new bored, but they all seem to be sold out, please help!
I know Mark this board is sold so well. What Country are you in? I know the UK should of had a delivery of Generations at the start of August. Thanks Reuben
@@SUPboardermag Hey, I'm in UK, Scotland. I'll keep hunting....
14 ' * ?
We just heard there might be one coming!! 👍🏼
Any weight test including kit?
We have just done the board overall weight including fins. Is this what you mean?
SUPboarder I meant in touring mode with gear. I’m already at 100kg; wondering how much more I could carry, though I imagine not much
@@uhpunterpro Sorry about this slow rely didn't see the question back.. Yeah not much. It would be very hard to say , 10kg max?!