Want to start paddleboarding and do not want to break the bank? Perhaps, the Sportsstuff Adventure 1030 inflatable paddleboard is the paddleboard you are looking for, as it is one of the cheapest in the market.
Airhead Sports Group, the parent company that makes the Airhead SUP, knows a thing or two about manufacturing quality watersport products. So expect a few outstanding features from the Sportsstuff 1030 Adventure.
With inflatable paddleboards, the general rule is you get what you pay for. It partially applies to the Sportsstuff 1030 paddleboard. Let us explain why we say so. For a paddleboard to cost this much, a brand needs to make a few sacrifices. Therefore, you do not get the same quality and performance as the Airhead stand-up paddleboard.
However, you still get plenty of accessories you do not get with higher-end brands, something we will talk about later in this review. We will also look at the key features, pros, and cons of the paddleboard so that you can make an informed decision on whether to buy one or not.
Before we start with the key features, let us look at what a complete package includes.
The complete package includes:
- 1 10.5-foot long paddleboard
- 1 Ankle cuff leash
- 1 Removable kayak seat
- 1 Manual hand pump with a pressure gauge.
- 1 Removable center fin
- 1 Three-piece adjustable aluminum paddle.
- 1 Repair kit and valve wrench.
Key Features and Benefits
Aesthetics
The Sportsstuff Adventure 1030 inflatable paddleboard comes in a fun-loving blend of orange, blue and green colors that will cause many heads to turn wherever you go. While the colors may seem too girly, the exciting mixture of colors makes it suitable for all genders.
Quality Construction
Like other standard inflatable stand-up paddleboards, it is made from high-grade military PVC for durability. However, what sets it apart from others is the use of the latest drop-stitch technology. The X-cross technology makes it 20% stronger than paddleboards that use regular drop-stitch. This means the Adventure 1030 becomes more rigid when fully inflated and lasts longer.
In addition, the paddleboard has a large, diamond-grooved EVA deck that covers more than half of the board. The diamond-shaped grooves provide excellent grip, thus preventing you from slipping while on board.
Its aluminum paddle is a tad heavier than other paddles but can collapse into three pieces, making storage convenient. You can also adjust the paddles to suit your height when paddling. Unlike other paddleboard oars, this one does not stay afloat if it falls in the water. So, take care when using it in deep water.
Performance
This inflatable stand-up paddleboard measures 10.5-feet long, 30-inch wide, and 4-inches thick. These dimensions put it in the medium-sized category of paddleboards. Also, this makes the board suitable for starter and intermediate paddleboarders.
The board weighs 25lbs, which is light enough for one person to carry using the carry handle provided at the center of the board. According to the manufacturer, the board can support a maximum weight of 220lbs. However, practically, this is not the case, as the paddleboard starts to sink when the load capacity exceeds 180lbs.
So, if you love to carry loads of heavy gear or are a heavy-set paddle boarder, stay clear from this iSUP. The sinking may be due to the 4-inch thickness, which cannot sustain much weight.
Airhead Sports Group designed this paddleboard for leisure paddling and SUP fishing. So do not expect it to move at lightning speeds. The board also operates better in flat water than rough and choppy waters.
Accessories
The Sportsstuff Adventure 1030 paddleboard surprisingly comes with many accessories not found in other luxury paddleboards. All these accessories allow you to start using the paddleboard immediately after unboxing.
First, the package includes an ankle cuff leash to keep you close to your board in the event you fall overboard. It also comes with a mesh carry bag that can comfortably fit the paddle and all other accessories, making the entire kit easy to transport.
Apart from this, the board comes with a removable seat that allows paddle boarders to relax or paddle away while seated. The removable kayak seat is tethered using two stainless steel D-rings found at the center of the board. The kayak seat only accommodates one person.
Unfortunately, the aluminum oar provided does not have dual sides to convert to a kayak paddle. So, you would need to buy a dedicated kayak paddle.
The paddleboards also include six other D-rings, four of which form the flexible bungee cord system to store fishing gear, a change of clothes, or even food and drinks. The last two allow you to attach the safety leash and tow gear if needed.
According to user reviews, inflating the paddleboard to the maximum pressure of 15 PSI with the hand pump provided is not effortless. You may want to think of getting an electric pump to make work easier.
Finally, it comes with a removable center fin that makes the board track straight in the water.
Pros
- It has a one-year warranty on the board and accessories.
- It comes in exciting colors suitable for all genders.
- The board comes with a removable kayak seat.
- It is affordable.
- The board is lightweight.
- It is made from high-grade PVC and uses X-cross technology for added durability.
- The complete package allows immediate use after unboxing.
Cons
- The aluminum paddle is heavy and cannot float.
- The paddle takes much effort to inflate using a hand pump.
- Its 4-inch thickness makes it unsuitable for large paddle boarders.
- It has a practical, limiting maximum load capacity of 180lbs.
Wrapping Up
The Sportsstuff Adventure 1030 inflatable stand-up paddleboard is an average performing paddleboard, but this is expected with its price. What it lacks in performance, it makes up for in appearance and nifty accessories that ensure you can start having fun on the water as soon as you receive your package.
As we have seen, it is suitable for beginners and some intermediate paddlers. We recommend it for lightweight paddlers and urge you to avoid exceeding 180lbs load capacity. We also suggest you spend a few bucks to buy a kayak paddle for effortless paddling when you feel like sitting while out on the water.
