PADDLER 12
REVIEWS
TECH INFO :
Size : 11 ’ 6 ” x 30 ” Weight : 12.3kgs Max payload : 170kgs
Bluefin Rogue 12 ’ 6 https :// bluefinsupboards . com By Oliver Jordan / Jessica Ashley / East of England Paddlesports
My initial thoughts on the package were that of a very high standard . Good quality , sturdy materials used and a well-thought-out colour scheme throughout ; for example , the same design scheme on the paddle , fin , board etc ., the blue and grey pattern is something I ’ ve not seen before , it stands out , and I like it very much !
As expected from a company that shouts about its eco credentials , the packaging with the board was almost plastic-free , which was refreshing to see . Upon unpacking , you find all parts of a modern SUP package that you would expect , including a very spacious backpack-style bag , a carbon shaft threepiece paddle , a very cool compact double chamber pump , leash ( it would be good to see the new Bluefin waist leash included ), fin , repair kit and even a mobile phone waterproof bag . I was impressed to see information regarding SUP safety and links to websites rather than adding unnecessary paper manuals and guides .
At 12 ’ 6 ” x 30 ”, the Rogue fits into the ‘ touring ’ category . Bluefin has designed a very sturdy board , including carbon-looking tape that runs along the top and bottom of the rail , which hides the seams and creates their reinforced Flex Reduction System – meaning a stiffer board ! Something I ’ ve noticed with Bluefin is they do love an acronym !! I loved the oversized centre handle , making it super easy to grab the board whilst keeping it perfectly balanced .
The shape at first was slightly different from any I had experienced before , with a slightly wider nose section and a narrower tail end . However , the board cuts through the water effortlessly as a bigger paddler ( 6 ’ 2 ” and 105kg ) I found it quite hard to balance at slower speeds . This board would be great for fast-paced , longer paddles , racing etc .
The board has plenty of deck space and bungees for a longer / multiday paddle kit . One downside I have found is that the board is on the heavier side ; the website states that deflated board weighs 12.3kg , and in my experience , a lighter board glides easier . ( Add the bag and all the accessories ; if carrying this any distance , it ’ s worth noting it ’ s quite heavy ).
The pump is a good double chamber unit , which packs away neatly ; if you ’ re tall , however , it ’ s quite low . The paddle lets the package down ; the two shaft sections are nice and light ; however , the plastic blade adds much bottom weight to the paddle . It can be an effort to lift out of the water on each stroke . The handle has a nice feel but will take some getting used to as it slightly differs in shape from most I have seen or used . The additional parts are all good quality , a coiled leash with strong velcro , a strong fin and a robust storage bag ( with plenty of space ) – wheels would have been a nice addition due to the weight ; however , I guess this would add more weight ! Catch 22 , I suppose !
OVERVIEW
A great package , good value for money and from a company with excellent eco credentials , i . e . they plant a tree for every board ordered and try to reduce plastic packaging where possible . They also offer a five-year warranty on each board , and you know they ’ ll honour that throughout your paddling journey ! There ’ s also a 60-day return window which is helpful , and a few attractive offers currently listed online .
So who is this board truly designed for ? I am confused about my own opinion . Due to the weight , you ’ d assume this was pushed for bigger , potentially stronger paddlers ; however , the board ’ s design for me , being tall and big , was probably not ideal . This is not for beginners or XL riders but is better suited for someone looking for their next step in longer distance or faster paddling . If you ’ re looking to pootle around on a great looking board , and are not too worried about carrying at long portages and good value for money , definitely check out the website ! Price : £ 799.00