Gili 10’6 Komodo Inflatable SUP Board Review

Features

lifestyleThe Gili Sports 10’6 Komodo Inflatable SUP board is built for valuable time on the water. It features a wide and stable hull that makes water activities such as yoga or SUP touring a breeze.  The 33-inch wide paddle board also accommodates multiple riders, a pet, or a generous sizing of gear. 

However, the Komodo is not your regular iSUP. Made with triple layer Fusion technology, the inflatable paddle board is 20% lighter than paddleboards from other brands with the same capacity. While keeping the board ultralight, the Fusion technology still offers a generous capacity of up to 340 lbs. 

The versatile paddleboard is also designed with a full length EVA Deck traction pad that runs from the nose to tail to improve overall traction and stability on board. To improve the board’s movement on the water, the iSUP comes with 9-inch snap-in main fin and removable side fins. 

To complement the paddleboard, you will have the choice to pick between three paddle options.  You can go for the basic and midweight fiberglass paddle with a nylon blade. For an extra cost, you can choose the carbon/nylon paddle with a carbon shaft and nylon blade for a lighter and stiffer feel. For the ultimate value, you can choose the lightest and stiffest high performance full carbon paddle, although it will cost you significantly more. 

When it comes to storage, the Komodo series paddleboard doesn’t disappoint. The inflatable paddleboard is equipped with a built-in paddle holder that comes in handy when you take a break from paddling. 

An oversized, removable bungee on the front part lets you store large gear and remove it when you want to make full use of the entire board. You will also find kayak seat D-rings that let you transform your paddleboard into a fishing kayak instantly. The four extra rear-mounted D-rings let you attach extra gear.

Here are other useful features of the Gili Sports Komodo inflatable SUP board:

  • Nose and tail grab handles double as tie-up point
  • Built-in action mount with D-ring with an integrated threaded nose action mount
  • Nose-to-tail foam EVA traction pad
  • Built-in Velcro paddle holder

Specifications

Dimensions (LxWxH) : 10’6 x 33’x 6’’ 

Weight: 21 lbs.

Color options: Coral, teal, blue, Yoga

Paddle: Fiberglass, carbon/nylon, or full carbon

Accessories: Paddle, dual action hand pump, backpack, coiled ankle leash, 9-inch snap-in center fin, and snap-in side fin pair

User Experience

user_experienceUsability: 99% – The Gili Sports Komodo series emerges with shining star ratings when it comes to its usability. The board’s larger profile allows it to accommodate riders of various sizes, making it a pretty versatile option. Thanks to its rugged, stable, and wide profile, the paddleboard comes in handy for a wide range of uses. You can remove the front bungee system to make full use of the paddleboard during your yoga sessions or day touring with a pal. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the paddleboard’s added space and generous storage design for a full blown camping or fishing trip. In fact, the paddleboard is even designed with D-rings so you can attach a kayak seat for a more comfortable fishing expedition. The paddleboard comes with extra features that add to its utility. A side paddle holder allows for hands-free lounging when not paddling – it comes pretty handy when you want to focus on your catch during fishing. The additional D-rings and action mount allow you to safely cruise with your essential tools, whether a GoPro or water bottle. But, what’s most impressive about the Komodo series is that despite its ultralight profile, the paddleboard offers all these incredible capacities. Its ultralight finish also gives it a portable build. You can instantly deflate it, fit it in its included carry bag and stash it in the trunk of any car. The paddle board also stores easily in most areas of your home, whether in the garage or attic. 

Durability: 99% – The Komodo series integrates an outstandingly durable build. It uses premium quality polyvinyl chloride material that allows it to withstand the elements and cruise through different types of waters with ease. However, the winning points go to the triple layer Fusion technology that makes the board significantly lighter. Yet, it allows it to maintain its rugged properties and hold up to abrasions and other elements on the water. The Fusion technology also allows the paddleboard to hold up a higher load capacity, supporting up to 340 lbs. The paddleboard can easily accommodate two riders or a rider and a pet without feeling any changes to the balance, stability, or maneuverability.

Pros

  • One of the lightest boards on the market
  • Very stable on the water
  • Effortlessly traverses and maneuvers on the water
  • Feels solid and hard under your feet
  • Multiple storage options for different items
  • Generous load capacity
  • Portable – easy to store and transport

Cons

  • You may slightly struggle with some maneuvers/turns on a windy day

Overall Rating

Usability: 99% – The Komodo board offers great usability. Its intuitive design, extra spacing, and additional feature work in a calculated unison to improve its overall utility. Whether it’s the number of riders, the stability on the water, the pointed nose maneuverability, or the various storage points, you can rest assured that you will find most of the things you need for an uneventful SUPing adventure.

Durability: 99% – Most of the credit for the inflatable paddleboard’s durability is given to its articulated triple layer Fusion technology. While its ultralight profile upholds its usability to the optimal level (portable and easy to travel, easy to maneuver), its ruggedness complements this function. You can bring with you all the items you need, your yoga buddy, or your four-legged friend without worrying about experiencing any weight or structural related issues along the way.

Price: 98% – The Gili Sports Komodo inflatable SUP board is not the cheapest on the market. However, you won’t have to stretch your pockets much to pay for the board. One can simply say that the board gives you a bang for your buck. Considering the features it offers and the quality construction, the price, though not budget-friendly, is reasonably justified.

Overall: 99% – Overall, the Komodo 10’6 iSUP design does justice in all key areas. It offers durable construction, a lightweight and portable profile, and a wider deck for improved stability. The board’s design also gives it versatile and well-rounded functionality, whether you use it for yoga, touring, or fishing.

Globo Surf Overview

The Gili 10’6 Komodo inflatable SUP board is ideally built for yoga. However, its all-around design extends its usability to add value to any rider’s hands, whether or not a yoga enthusiast. However, the slightly wider deck may not be easy for beginners to handle. Another minor drawback of the board is that you may experience some issues turning or maneuvering on days with high winds.

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