Disappointing Performance & Misleading Weight Claims for Heavier Paddlers
I recently purchased the Blu Wave Armada 11'6" Touring SUP and, unfortunately, my experience didn’t match the company’s claims. Blu Wave advertises this board as suitable for beginners up to 250 lbs and advanced paddlers up to 280 lbs. As an experienced paddler weighing 122 kg (around 269 lbs), I found that the board didn’t perform well for my weight.
When standing in the middle, the board sank from the stern, and when I moved forward to adjust, the nose submerged. It’s clear that the board struggles with higher weights, and while it may technically float, it lacks the stability, balance, and performance needed for efficient paddling, especially on long trips.
That said, this board might be a good option for lighter paddlers, as it appears well-built and has a cool design. However, for anyone near or above 250 lbs, I recommend looking for alternatives. I tested the Starboard 14'0" Touring SUP and experienced far better performance in both stability and speed.
Bottom Line: If you’re a lightweight paddler, the Blu Wave Armada may work well for you. However, heavier paddlers should be wary of the weight capacity claims as the board’s performance doesn’t live up to them.
