MOAI 11' SUP Board Review: The All-Around Leader Among iSUPs

First Impression

Upon unpacking the MOAI 11', we were immediately impressed by the quality of the included accessories. Unlike many other brands where accessories can sometimes feel like a 'necessary evil', the MOAI package exudes high quality. The paddle, the double-action pump, the ankle leash, and the backpack all feel sturdy and durable. This confirms MOAI's focus on a complete and hassle-free SUP experience. The board itself, with its sleek and elegant design created by a former NIKE designer, immediately makes an excellent aesthetic impression.

On the Water

As soon as we launched the MOAI 11' and stepped on it, one thing immediately stood out: its enormous stability. Although we have tested many different boards, the robustness of this one surprised us. Even for beginners, standing on this board will hardly be a challenge. We tested the board on various water types, from calm lakes to slightly choppy rivers, and it performed with consistent stability under all conditions. The anti-slip deck pad also provides a comfortable and secure grip, contributing to a relaxed posture. What we greatly appreciate is the kickpad at the tail, which provides much more maneuverability and makes turning and carving significantly easier and more enjoyable. For its length, the board feels surprisingly fast and glides effortlessly across the water.

Stability and Rigidity

The exceptional stability of the MOAI 11' is no accident; it is largely due to the advanced Double Layer Technology. This means a second layer of PVC is applied over the standard PVC layer. The result is an impressively rigid board that barely flexes under load. This rigidity, combined with its generous dimensions (335 cm x 76 cm x 15 cm), contributes to an exceptionally stable paddling experience. The maximum load capacity of 150 kg underscores its robust construction, even allowing you to bring a child or pet on board. The three fins underneath-unlike many two-fin boards-further enhance tracking and stability.

Accessories and Package

We can confidently say that the accessory package of the MOAI 11' can be described as very complete and high-quality. You literally get everything you need to get on the water immediately, without any additional purchases. In the box, we find a high-quality double-action pump that makes inflation easy within 5 to 10 minutes, a sturdy and comfortable carrying bag for effortless transport, and an adjustable paddle that feels good in the hand. Additionally, there are three fins for optimal tracking, a secure ankle leash, and a repair kit for unexpected minor damages. An additional beginner's e-book is a nice touch for new paddlers. This complete accessory set significantly contributes to the overall value experience of the MOAI 11'.

Who is it for?

The MOAI 11' is a true all-rounder and is therefore suitable for a wide audience. We highly recommend this board for:

• Beginners looking for a stable and forgiving board to learn the sport.
• More experienced paddlers who want a reliable and comfortable board for longer tours and recreational use.
• People who want to paddle with extra luggage, a child, or a pet, thanks to the high load capacity of 150 kg.
• Paddlers who mainly stay on flat water such as lakes, canals, or calm rivers.
• SUP yoga enthusiasts looking for a stable platform for their exercises.

The board is less suitable for:

• Professional racing or achieving top speeds; specialized race boards are better for this.
• Extreme whitewater paddling, although the board can handle some rough conditions.
• Multiple adults who together exceed the maximum load capacity of 150 kg.

The fact that MOAI also donates a portion of its proceeds to Waves for Change, a charity that helps children in Africa through surfing and SUPing, adds an extra feel-good element to the purchase.

Conclusion

The MOAI 11' convinced us in almost every aspect during this test. It is a board that seamlessly combines quality, stability, and versatility. The Double Layer Technology provides remarkable rigidity, which improves performance and also makes the board more durable. The complete and high-quality accessory package means you are immediately ready for adventures on the water. Although the price is slightly higher than the cheapest models, the quality and premium experience offered more than justify the investment. We consider the MOAI 11' one of the best all-around inflatable SUP boards on the market, for both beginners and more experienced paddlers. An absolute recommendation for anyone seeking a high-quality and enjoyable SUP experience.