SUP Mag UK lo-res free to readers July 2014 lo-res - free to read | Page 80

Snap it up! Point 65 Rum Runner k ie t a r g s h e d : h a r d b o a r d s www.point65.com We were first introduced to the modular snap together SUP at Germany’s Canoe Expo in October last year. At the time it was just a polystyrene model but seeing just how easy it was to use Point 65’s Snap Tap system on their kayak range, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on one. Further info : www.point65.com Prices: Rum Runner 11.5: £750.00 Rum Runner 12.5: £830.00 First observation is obvious – you don’t need a roof rack. We loaded the Rum Runner into the back of our ever dependable Rav4 and off to the river we went. the rear section has a retractable fin plus carry handle. Performance wise, the Rum Runner displacement hull excels in its role as an SUP tourer on the water; straight tracking is spot on, stability is nicely balanced alongside a nimble turn of speed and manoeuvrability. When you get there, the three-part hull is as easy as 1-2-3 to snap together and off you go (see the video bottom right). The river is the natural environment for the Rum Runner where you can pack plenty of items including a small tent if necessary, into the forward compartment – it gives you the freedom to explore without the worry of getting your belongings wet. I’m still very much a beginner in terms of SUP but I very soon became very much at ease with the board and before long started to have quite a bit of fun, attempting moves that I hadn’t tried before. Review by Peter Tranter Regarding surf, Point 65 recommend you don’t use the Rum Runner with waves above three feet, as this can damage the Snap Tap system. We used the 12.5 board that can carry up to 300lbs with its extended mid-section covered with a very comfortable soft padded EVA foam that gives plenty of grip. This section is also equipped with a built-in Slide-Trax system which allows you to fully customise it to your specific needs such as seating, fishing gear etc. Aside from the watertight hatch, the front section also contains two cup holders plus a carry handle and Watch the video CONCLUSION Overall the modular system of assembling and taking apart worked very well, though I would recommend you try it in your garden a few times before your first paddle as it definitely improves with practice. Easy to live with, to transport and to store, Point 65 haven’t missed a trick. The rotomoulded hull can be heavy when assembled but it is tough and impact resistant. s t a n d u p p a d d l e m a g u k 80