Don't know if anyone has seen this deal or knows of the Honu brand, looks like it might be good? Is definitely cheap, what do you think for an entry level board?
There have been heaps of threads on these cheap 'generic' board deals. I suggest you read a few before considering. They have a place in the market but you get what you pay for. Here is a recent thread
Thread mentioned above is a must-read if you are considering one of these boards and especially if you are buying through a source which is not a bricks and mortar SUP store, or at least a long standing SUP specific online retailer.
Hey Pandahill I started with my first SUP 12 months ago and brought my first cheap brand board off ebay without knowing its quality. I have surfed on it a lot so have really knocked it around. I have repaired a lot of holes in it that have been self inflicted, and it really looks pretty rough now, but still going. I'm actually happy that my first board was cheap as I'm not bothered that its so damaged now. Now I have better skills and can progress to an expensive board that I won't destroy. I say buy a cheap board and thrash the hell out of it!
Hey Pandahill I started with my first SUP 12 months ago and brought my first cheap brand board off ebay without knowing its quality. I have surfed on it a lot so have really knocked it around. I have repaired a lot of holes in it that have been self inflicted, and it really looks pretty rough now, but still going. I'm actually happy that my first board was cheap as I'm not bothered that its so damaged now. Now I have better skills and can progress to an expensive board that I won't destroy. I say buy a cheap board and thrash the hell out of it!
But often, the more expensive boards have better durability, and better resale value. There's no right or wrong answer though. Probably a similar financial equation both ways...
So all up its almost a grand ? That is not. a cheap sup - its not even cheap at $639 IMO. For a grand you can buy a reputable board new (trust me - shop around with cash in your hand) and you will certainly pick up a s/h premium brand in excellent condition for $1000. I am happy to steer you to reputable boards/dealers in your area if you want to p.m me - totally up to you but buying an unknown brand, sight unseen and not demo'ed is insane.
I bought one of these a few weeks ago. That board itself is very good for the price of $640. Had a few paddles on flat water and it's a lot of fun. haven't had a chance to try it out in the surf yet.
Went straight out and bought a better paddle. The one included here is useless.
At $640 I think it's a good way to get on the water. If it was $800 then I'm sure there'd be far better 2nd hand reputable boards.
Note. If it's to good to be true. It's to good to be true. Seen 2 de laminated on the all black bottom already. I have a mate who works in the indusrty and he showed me them at his shop before they went to ding repairs as i was going to buy one for my cousin. Fyi on the paddles to, very short. Very short indeed.
