Review of Aquaplanet PACE 10'6'' All-around Stand Up Paddleboard: Ideal for Newbie Stand-up Paddlers
Hop on Board with the Aquaplanet PACE: My Honest Review
Lemme tell ya, I'm a total SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) enthusiast! There's just something magical about being out on the water that clears the mind and soul. After dabbling in the sport a few years ago, I soon caught the paddleboarding bug and have become a bit of a pro - even trying a few yoga poses!
Recently, I was given the chance to test drive the Aquaplanet PACE, an all-around inflatable stand-up paddleboard designed for both beginners and intermediates. Here's what I thought about this speedy and balanced board.
Aquaplanet PACE: At a Glance
The Aquaplanet PACE is a well-built iSUP designed for speed and balance and ideal for beginners and intermediate paddleboarders alike. This all-rounder can be used for various paddle styles, making it perfect for those just getting into the sport or looking to try a variety of things.
Key Features
- Designed for speed and balance, great for beginners and intermediates
- Wider board and 6" thickness increase stability and reduce the risk of capping
- Pointed shape for cutting through the water
- Includes all necessary kit, such as rucksack, hand pump, paddle, dry bag, shoulder strap, and leash
- Lightweight and compact, weighing just 13kg and inflating in 10-15 minutes
My First Impressions
From the moment I took the Aquaplanet PACE out of the box, I loved the bright, fun colors, and the design is sleek and stylish. It's also surprisingly lightweight and more compact than my previous board, making it easier to transport.
The board, when deflated, and all the necessary kit fits neatly into the Aquaplanet Rucksack. Although it's somewhat bulky, it's not too unwieldy, especially given the convenience of having everything you need in one place. The rucksack also feels comfortable and isn't too heavy, making it manageable, even for those living in flats without elevators.
Hitting the Water
I took the Aquaplanet PACE to my favorite paddleboarding spot, the River Stour in Dorset, to give it a test run. And I was impressed! The board handled excellently, feeling lightweight, maneuverable, and quick. I found myself moving faster than usual, even with it being my first outing of the year.
The PACE's balance was spot-on, even on choppy parts of the river. The three-fin setup contributed to the board's turning ability, and it performed well on the bendy sections and strong currents. While the PACE is a tad slimmer than some stability-focused boards, the improved speed is worth the trade-off, especially for more experienced paddlers.
The Aquaplanet PACE is a sturdy board that handles waves well and offers a smooth ride. Its design lends itself to experimenting with tricks, and with the addition of a kayak seat (sold separately), it can easily be converted into a kayak for long tours. Alternatively, the D-rings can also be used with bungee cords to create extra storage for those planning longer paddles.
The Other Kit
The Aquaplanet PACE comes with all necessary accessories, such as a rucksack, hand pump, paddle, dry bag, shoulder strap, and leash. The leash feels solid, and although I didn't test it extensively, it seems up to the task of keeping you attached to the board.
The Aquaplanet Surf Sack dry bag is a welcome addition, as I already own a dry bag and use it on every paddle. The bag can clip shut to seal items inside, and it's perfect for stashing items like your phone, car keys, or water bottle. Attaching it to the storage bungee cords on the front of the board keeps equipment close at hand.
The hand pump seems fairly basic but gets the job done. However, I recommend using an electric car pump to inflate your board to save energy for the actual paddle. The rucksack is comfortable and well-built. However, I noticed the zippers occasionally stuck on the first use, so it may not last forever. I'll keep an eye on it and report back.
The paddle that comes with the Aquaplanet PACE is lightweight, comfy, and has a funky blue and black design. The grip is comfortable, and while it's a basic paddle, it makes for an ideal first option. Like the pump, an upgrade may be in order as your skills progress.
Should You Get the Aquaplanet PACE?
The Aquaplanet PACE is an exceptional all-around board, suitable for beginners and intermediate paddleboarders. Its versatility and a range of uses make it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy trying different things and paddling in a variety of settings.
For those with specific interests, such as racing, SUP surfing, or SUP yoga, you might prefer a board tailored to your specific needs. Aquaplanet offers a variety of boards, so you'll surely find something that suits your interests.
But if you're looking for a high-quality board that offers great stability, ease of use, speed, and durability while remaining lightweight and portable, the Aquaplanet PACE is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike. And with an affordable price point, it's a great entry-level inflatable SUP.
Any Questions About the Aquaplanet PACE Review?
Got a question about my review of the Aquaplanet PACE inflatable stand-up paddleboard? Feel free to leave a comment below, and I'll do my best to help you out!
Enrichment Data:
Inflatable stand-up paddleboards (iSUPs) are portable, lightweight, and durable. They provide excellent stability and ease of use for beginners, thanks to their wider and thicker construction. For experienced paddlers, iSUPs offer speed, maneuverability, and versatility. Key features to consider when selecting an iSUP include stability, durability, portability, fin configuration, and performance. The Aquaplanet PACE iSUP is designed for balance, speed, and versatility and provides a sturdy construction. The board is suitable for a variety of paddle styles, making it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate paddleboarders looking to try different things.
With the Aquaplanet PACE's capability for a variety of paddle styles, it makes an excellent option for those seeking adventurous tours on the water, whether it's stand-up paddleboarding, SUP yoga, or even kayaking, given the option to add a kayak seat. Moreover, the transport-friendly design of the PACE, including its lightweight and compact features, allows it to be conveniently carried for sports-related travel.
