RED Paddle Co announces the launch of its new Compact 9’6”, a full-sized SUP that folds down to half the size of a regular inflatable paddle board while not compromising performance. The smaller packed size lets you easily carry it around town, jump onto public transport or store in the trunk of your car, with space to spare. Its compact nature also allows for storage within small cars, smaller apartments onboard boats and in your van. It also comes with a new pack, lightweight, 5-piece paddle and click-on fins to complete what the company calls “the most transportable board on the planet.”
“Our aim was to produce the most compact and transportable board in the world, without compromising on performance,” says Red CEO John Hibbard.
Ten years in the making, the board uses Red’s new PACT Technology, a material with a new weaving process which creates an extra-hightensile thread matrix at the core combined with a strong but malleable outer layer. This means the Compact board is as stiff and durable when inflated but can be folded down into a bag half the size of standard inflatable boards.
The Compact comes with a newly designed backpack, 5-piece paddle, Titan pump, leash and removable fins.
“Everything we do starts with the paddler and how we can make their full experience better,” says designer Phil Hawthorne. “The new backpack has unique levels of adjustability and comfort, plus incredible shoulder and back support. It’s the most highly engineered SUP bag on the planet, applying approximately 53% less down force on the carrier’s lower back, you can travel for longer in comfort.”
The bag also features customisable lumbar support and adjustable height features so is suitable for any size of paddler.
The package’s 5-piece compact paddle also packs away easily, but it is still adjustable with no compromise on the water. The modular design also means sections can be removed to create a paddle for smaller riders or kids, opening up the board package to be used by the whole family. The paddle is made of high-modulus carbon for extra rigidity, with a durable nylon blade.
The SUP’s new click fins are enable fast secure fin attachment, while allowing the SUP to track easily. Info $1899, www.redpaddleco.com