Rating: 5 Stars
The Crusader is one of the best all-around inflatable paddle boards that we have tried all year, it is definitely worth checking out.
Overview
Price Point: Under $1000
Build: Inflatable Double layer laminated construction with added reinforcement on the side rails.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Use: All-Around design. Handles well on most types of water.
Size: 11’2” long, 31” wide, 6” thick
Weight: 24 lbs.
Load Capacity: 300+ lbs.
Details
There are a couple things that we loved most about this board.
1. For one it has decent stability without compromising the glide. That is not always easy to find and we loved how good this board felt to ride.
The Crusader handles extremely well and is fun to paddle. The fact that it glides so nicely is a bonus and one that most will really appreciate.
2. At a price point of under $1000 you really can’t go wrong.
This ISUP could give a lot of the higher priced boards a run for their money so we think it is fantastic that the price has been kept reasonable.
3. This is a well-made board that uses the latest ISUP technology in the construction.
You can tell as soon as it is inflated that it is built strong and durable. We decided to test the weight limit and loaded it up with two adults and two dogs (well over 350 lbs. total).
It passed with ease and although it took more effort to paddle with a load that size, it stayed strong and rigid.
Design
The colors and design are beautiful. The blues with the green look fantastic in and out of the water.
Each time we had the Crusader out we got many compliments on it from both males and females.
The actual shape of the board is fantastic. With so many board companies popping up lately we see a lot of cookie cutter shapes chosen by people who don’t likely know much about what makes a paddle board ride well.
The difference with the Hero SUP Crusader is we feel these guys actually know what they are doing, have experience with inflatable stand up paddle boards and designed one to perform well.
The Crusader has a rounded nose, a tapered tail and a center width of 31”. The shape and design along with the 11’2” length – slightly longer than the typical 11’ long boards – provides excellent speed and glide for an all-around board
Combine that with the tri-fin configuration at the back end and you have a super awesome board.
Fins
A lot of thought went into the fins on this board as well. Many all-around ISUP’s have two tiny attached side fins and one removable center touring fin.
This one has two larger 5” removable side fins and a sleek 9” removable center touring fin.
The combination of these fins provides a stable back end and excellent glide and tracking.
The fact that all three are removable allows you to customize your board depending on what type of water you are in. It also stops the fins from getting bent when the board is rolled up as we have seen often on boards with attached side fins.
Well done Hero SUP!
Features
Padded Neoprene Removable Carry Handles
I’m always surprised to see paddle boards that only have a nylon center handle with no padding.
It’s a simple thing to add a strip of neoprene padding to the handle and it makes a BIG different in comfort when carrying the board.
The Crusader has a removable padded neoprene cover. It is comfortable to carry and the handle still lays flat so it is not in the way of your feet.
Bungee Tie-Down Cords
There is ample room under the front bungees to secure a dry bag and your PFD.
I was particularly pleased that the bungees were close to the top end of the traction pad so they are easy to reach from the center of the board.
Sometimes they are placed too far up front making them inconvenient to use.
D-Rings
The 6 D-ring attachments are well placed for convenience. Use the four up front for securing gear or a cooler.
Use the one at the back tail for securing your leash and use the one under the tip of the nose for towing.
There are no center D-rings on this board, which we don’t mind. Sometimes there gets to be too many that don’t get used and can just get in the way.
This board is functional without being cluttered.
US Fin Box With 9” Touring Fin
The 9” center touring fin secures to a universal US fin box with a bolt and screw (no tools required).
The US fin box is the universal fin attachment so you can switch out the fin if you ever wanted to.
2 5” Easy Clip-In Side Fins
The two side fins easily clip into place. With all three fins attached you will get the best tracking and performance.
EVA Traction Pad
The diamond groove EVA traction pad provides really good grip for your feet while still remaining comfortable and soft.
Pacakage:
There’s a lot included in the Hero SUP package making the price even more appealing.
Wheeled Backpack – The deluxe backpack with wheels is one of the best on the market – It is extremely similar to the Red Paddle Co Wheeled Backpack – Same great design and protection. Consider this bag a bonus to be included in the deal.
3-Piece Fiberglass Paddle – The 3-piece travel paddle is solid, adjustable and it floats. When broken down into three pieces it can be stored in the backpack when not in use.
10’ Coiled SUP Leash – The SUP leash comfortably attaches to your ankle and has a quick-grip loop for easily taking it off.
10L Dry Bag – Can’t say enough about how great it is that this package comes with a dry bag!
Double Action Hand Pump – This hand pump works particularly well. Start in double action mode for quick inflation then push in the button to switch to single action to make it easier to reach 15 PSI.
Repair Kit – Included in the repair kit is a couple of PVC patches, waterproof glue and a valve tightener.
To Sum It Up..
We’re a fan of the Crusader, so much so that we have been using this board a lot on many of our paddling trips.
If you want a stable board that still performs well, that can be used on any type of water, that can hold a lot of weight and that comes with a great accessory package, the Crusader is a really good choice.
You won’t be disappointed, it’s a 5 star board all the way!
Warranty
All Hero SUP inflatable stand up paddle boards come with a 2-year warranty.
Check out the best deal on the Crusader at HeroSUP.com.