Rating: 4 Stars
I’ve used several of the iRocker paddle boards in the past. I wasn’t a huge fan when they first came onto the scene but feel they have improved over the years.
The Cruiser is a solid beginner-friendly board that feels stable and secure. I don’t find it to be an exciting ride but I’ve yet to have a beginner on it that doesn’t feel almost immediately comfortable and there’s something to be said for that.
Overview
Price Point: Budget Friendly
Build: 4-layer PVC Material
Skill Level: Beginner
Use: Cruising on lakes or ocean bays, yoga.
Size: 10”6” long, 33” wide, 6” thick
Weight: 25 lbs.
Load Capacity: 350 lbs.
Details
The Cruiser has a 33″ width making it quite wide and stable. The wider width does have the consequence of also slowing it down. You will notice a bit of drag, which is why I would say this is a beginner only board but it also guarantees a nice stable ride.
I have put several beginners on this board and they all felt comfortable quite fast. It’s a great board to learn to SUP and get rid of those initial shaky legs.
I also find that the wider width makes it feel more secure when paddling in choppy water.
However it takes more effort to turn than a leaner board and therefore wouldn’t be my top choice for paddling in congested water where you need to make quick moves or maneuvers.
iRocker has been popular over the years and they have quite a few of reviews out there, both good and bad.
In my own experience, I have had very little issue with their boards, especially the newer models. For a beginner you can’t really beat the price point and for someone who may also want to try a little SUP yoga the Cruiser is a good choice.
Design
The Cruiser design was made with beginners in mind with a wide middle width, slightly tapered nose to help with glide and an extra wide tail, which makes this board feel even more solid in the water.
The design is ideal for those who are not in a hurry, who want a relaxing yet stable ride either by themselves or with kids or a dog on board.
This board can hold a lot of weigh well and larger riders will appreciate the shape of this board and the construction.
Fins
The are two small attached rubber side fins and one large removable center fin.
The center fin easily clips into place and can be removed if paddling in shallow water.
In most circumstances you will want to use the center fin. With the touring fin attached this board performs much better than without it.
The larger fin greatly helps with tracking making it easier to paddle and stay on a straight course.
Features
Front Bungees
The Cruiser has a large front bungee section at the nose of the board. The bungees attach to six stainless steel D-rings.
You can use these bungees to secure your gear. I prefer the bungees to be a little closer to the center of the board so that they are easier to reach however this setup works fine as well.
With the bungees right at the nose they are out of the way if you decide to do some yoga poses.
Center Carry Handle
The center carry handle has a little bit of padding, nothing major but even a little helps with comfort.
Back Grab Handle
The back grab handle can be used for pulling the board out of the water or grabbing hold of the board if you should end up in the water.2
Diamond Groove Traction Pad
The diamond groove EVA traction pad provides nice comfortable grip for your feet while paddling.
The traction pad covers a good length of the board providing comfort whether you are standing, kneeling or stretching/yoga.
Fins
The two smaller side fins are attached. These two fins are really quite small but still helpful.
The larger center touring fin clips in easily and really should be used for better performance. Without the center fin clicked in you will notice the board takes more effort to paddle and keep straight.
Pacakage:
The Cruiser has a budget friendly price tag that many beginners will appreciate. They include just about everything you need to get started paddle boarding.
The iRocker Cruiser package includes:
Backpack – The backpack carry bag can fit the board and all accessories. I don’t personally find this bag to be anything spectacular but it does the trick and makes it easy to transport the board.
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.
iRocker Ankle Leash – The ankle leash keeps you attached to your board so you don’t lose it if you fall off.
Triple Action Double Chamber Hand Pump – iRocker has included a deluxe triple action hand pump with their package. This pump can inflate a paddle board faster than the normal double action pumps.
It’s a nice pump, not sure it’s all that necessary however. It does inflate the board a little faster but I didn’t find it to be THAT much of a difference and it is bulkier to store.
If I was having to pay extra for this pump I’d say it’s not really worth it, but since it is included in the package then it’s all good.
Repair Kit – Included in the repair kit is a couple of PVC patches, waterproof glue and a valve tightener.
Final Thoughts
If you are a total beginner who wants a stable and easy ride, then the iRocker Cruiser is a good way to go.
For the price you are getting a durable board that can be used for cruising around, SUP yoga, fishing, or paddling with the family.
Worth noting that this board is harder for kids to paddle because of the extra wide width.
The iRocker boards come with a 2-year warranty so you can buy with peace of mind.
By far the best deal is at Amazon.com for the iRocker Cruiser inflatable SUP.