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iRocker iSUP Reviews | 2023 Paddleboards Compared
Jacksonville, Florida, based iRocker SUP has a well-deserved reputation for producing high-quality inflatable Stand Up Paddle boards (iSUPs) with a wide range of prices, features, and paddling accessories. iRocker is now entering its second decade in the paddle board industry and continues to improve its products with each new generation. Here we’ll take a look at the entire iRocker lineup, including the Nautical and Blackfin sub-brands, and compare their 2023 paddle boards so you know where to dive into our iRocker SUP reviews.
Over the past several years iRocker has become a globally-recognized SUP brand and the company continues to expand their lineup. iRocker currently makes over a dozen different iSUPs ranging in size from 9′ to 12’6″ in length.
The company’s iSUPs are organized into three sub-brands.
The Nautical line was introduced in 2020 as a lower-cost entry-level iSUP. New for 2023 are two compact models: the Nautical Go Ten Six (10’6” x 32”) and the Nautical Go Cruiser (10’6” x 34”). These iSUPs fold down to smaller packages for easier transportation and storage, but have fewer onboard features than their non compact counterparts.
The iRocker paddle boards are the heart of the company’s lineup and feature some of their best selling boards. The standard iRocker SUPs feature a double-layer PVC construction for durability and stiffness along with a multitude of features, accessories and sizes.In 2022, iRocker introduced the Ultra series of iRocker boards. These are full-size iSUPs that are lightweight, extra stiff, and fold into a compact carrying bag half the size of the original iRocker iSUPs.
Finally, the company’s Blackfin brand was introduced in 2018 as the iRocker premium line. Blackfin iSUPs add carbon fiber rail reinforcements for increased rigidity and durability, different sizes and shapes, and additional on-board features focused on adventure.
Why We Recommend iRocker SUPs
One of the things that we appreciate about iRocker is that they’ve gone out of their way to make sure they have a board for paddlers on just about any budget — from the entry level Nauticals to the premium Blackfins. This focus on everyday paddlers has led them to produce high-quality paddle boards in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of nearly every paddler.
Another big selling point of the iRocker inflatable SUP line is their excellent warranty and generous 45-day money-back guarantee. The company has a great track record of customer service and helping customers with any issues that may arise. It’s obvious that customer satisfaction is a high-priority to iRocker.
We’ve worked closely with iRocker over the years and have the iRocker founder and CEO on speed dial. They’ve been great at not only answering questions, but also listening to and implementing feedback from both us and our readers. They’ve also provided a sort of customer service priority lane for Inflatable Boarder readers – if you have any issues with your iRocker products, simply email us with your question and order number and we will forward it directly to the iRocker CEO for a fast resolution.
For 2023, iRocker has added several iSUPs to its catalog. The new Blackfin XL Ultra is a lighter weight, compact iSUP that is the same size and shape as the Blackfin Model XL, but folds down into a bag roughly half the size. The iRocker Ultra iSUPs have received minor updates, and the Nautical series has expanded with two new compact options: the Nautical Go Ten Six and Nautical Go Cruiser.
iRocker Paddle Boards Compared
| section-hd | iRocker ULTRA iSUPs |
||
|---|---|---|---|
| iRocker ALL-AROUND 10' ULTRA 2.0 | iRocker ALL-AROUND 10' ULTRA 2.0 | All-Around iSUP 10' x 32" x 6" 20 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker ALL-AROUND 11' ULTRA 2.0 | iRocker ALL-AROUND 11' ULTRA 2.0 | All-Around iSUP 11' x 31" x 6" 21 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker CRUISER ULTRA 2.0 | iRocker CRUISER ULTRA 2.0 | All-Around iSUP 10'6” x 33" x 6" 22 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| section-hd | Blackfin Premium iSUPs |
||
| Blackfin CX ULTRA | Blackfin CX ULTRA | Premium Compact iSUP 10'6" x 31.5" x 6" 20 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Blackfin XL ULTRA | Blackfin XL ULTRA | Premium Compact iSUP 11'6" x 34" x 6" 23 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Blackfin Model X | Blackfin Model X | Premium All-Around iSUP 10'6" x 35" x 6" 27 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| Blackfin Model XL | Blackfin Model XL | Premium All-Around iSUP 11'6" x 34" x 6 29 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
BLACKFIN Model V | Premium Touring iSUP 12'6" x 32" x 6" 30 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price | |
| section-hd | Nautical iSUPs |
||
Nautical Kids | Budget All-Around iSUP 9’ x 32" x 6" 18 pounds | Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price | |
NAUTICAL 10'6" | Budget All-Around iSUP 10'6" x 32" x 6 20 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price | |
NAUTICAL 11'6" | Budget All-Around iSUP 11'6" x 32" x 6" 22 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Price | |
Nautical GO Ten Six | Budget Compact iSUP 10'6" x 32" x 6" 20 pounds | Full Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price | |
| Nautical GO Cruiser | Nautical GO Cruiser | Large Budget Compact iSUP 10'6" x 34" x 6" 21 pounds | Full Review Coming SoonCheck Best Price |
| section-hd | iRocker Originals iSUPs |
||
| iRocker ALL-AROUND 10' | iRocker ALL-AROUND 10' | All-Around iSUP 10' x 32" x 6" 24 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker ALL-AROUND 11' | iRocker ALL-AROUND 11' | All-Around iSUP 11' x 32" x 6" 26 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker CRUISER 10'6" | iRocker CRUISER 10'6" | All-Around iSUP 10'6" x 33" x 6" 25 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
| iRocker SPORT 11' | iRocker SPORT 11' | Performance iSUP 11' x 31" x 6" 25 pounds | Read ReviewCheck Best Price |
iRocker ULTRA iSUP Reviews
iRocker 10’ ALL AROUND ULTRA 2.0
All-Around iSUP | 10′ x 32″ x 6″
The iRocker 10’ All Around Ultra is a smaller sized all-around iSUP that’s best for paddlers under 5’6” and under 160lb. Its smaller size, sub-20lb weight, and new split-fold design make the 10’ All Around Ultra a truly compact sup when packed into the new carrying bag. The 10’ All Around Ultra still keeps true to the iRocker style of flexibility with lots of storage space, attachment points, and passenger handles.
We recommend this smaller option primarily for smaller paddlers. Our usual recommendation for most paddlers is the 11’ All-Around Ultra or Cruiser Ultra.
Check out the 10’ ALL AROUND ULTRA iSUP by iRocker
iRocker ALL AROUND 11′ ULTRA 2.0
All-Around iSUP | 11′ x 32″ x 6″
The iRocker 11’ All Around Ultra is one of our favorite all-around iSUPs for a variety of reasons. It improves on the original 11’ All Around in several ways. The new drop stitch material is both lighter and stiffer for better performance on the water, the split-fold design allows the 11’ All Around Ultra to fit into a storage bag half the size of the original for easier transportation, and the new twin fin system improves tracking while paddling.
Check out the 11’ All Around Ultra by iRocker.
iRocker CRUISER ULTRA
All-Around iSUP| 10′6” x 32″ x 6″
The iRocker Cruiser Ultra rounds out the iRocker Ultra iSUPs with excellent balance of stability and performance. At 10’6” x 32”, the Cruiser Ultra is a great fit for the majority of paddlers and offers very beginner-friendly stability thanks to its width and wider tail shape. Like the other Ultra series iSUPs, it folds away into an incredibly small storage bag and includes an electric pump as part of the standard kit.
We recommend the iRocker Cruiser Ultra for anyone looking for a lightweight, beginner-friendly iSUP.
Check out the Cruiser Ultra iSUP by iRocker.
Blackfin Premium iSUP Reviews
Blackfin CX ULTRA
Premium Compact iSUP | 10′6” x 31.5″ x 6″
The Blackfin CX Ultra combines the carbon fiber reinforced rails and design inspiration of the Blackfin series with the new advanced materials and compact folding design of the new Ultra series iSUPs. This makes the Blackfin CX Ultra incredibly lightweight (under 20lb), incredibly stiff, stable, and ready for adventure.
At 31.5” wide, the Blackfin CX Ultra is the narrowest board of the Blackfin lineup. It’s quick on the water and the dual fin system helps it track very straight and improves stability.
Check out the Blackfin CX Ultra iSUP by iRocker.
Blackfin XL Ultra
Premium Compact iSUP | 11’6” x 34″ x 6″
The Blackfin XL Ultra is a full size copy of the Blackfin Model XL, but with iRocker’s new Ultra construction and compact folding system. The XL Ultra is a full 11’6” x 34” x 6” iSUP with copious cargo storage and multiple accessory mounting points including Scotty-style rack mounts on the rear of the board. The twin fin system provides excellent tracking and the woven drop stitch interior keeps the board extremely rigid. All of this and it still folds down into a storage bag roughly half the size of a traditional iSUP.
Check out the Blackfin XL Ultra by iRocker.
Blackfin Model X
Premium All-Around iSUP | 10’6″ x 35″ x 6″
Freshly updated this year, the popular Blackfin Model X is part of iRocker’s line of premium iSUPs. Measuring 10’6″ x 35″ x 6″ and weighing in at 27 pounds, the Model X offers extreme stability as the company’s widest board. This is the board of choice for a paddler who wants the ultimate in stability on the water whether for river running, yoga, or heavy cargo. The Model X is a great choice for the paddler looking for a luxurious and feature-rich Cruiser-style iSUP.
The premium Blackfin line comes loaded with top-shelf features like carbon fiber reinforced side rails, 8 action mounts, 20 D-rings, 7 grab handles, and exclusive fishing rack mounts.
Check out the Blackfin Model X iSUP by iRocker.
Blackfin Model XL
Premium All-Around iSUP | 11’6″ x 34″ x 6″
The Blackfin Model XL measures 11’6″ x 34″ x 6″ and weighs 29 pounds. This board has an impressive max weight capacity of 485 pounds and is a great choice for paddlers looking for adventurous overnight trips, anglers who love their accessories, and paddlers who often bring along passengers . Like the Model X, the Blackfin Model XL is a versatile iSUP that is built to last a lifetime and can handle anything you throw at it.
The premium Blackfin line comes loaded with top-shelf features like carbon fiber reinforced side rails, 8 action mounts, 20 D-rings, 7 grab handles, and exclusive fishing rack mounts.
Check out the Blackfin Model XL iSUP by iRocker.
Blackfin Model V
Premium Touring iSUP | 12’6″ x 32″ x 6″
The Blackfin Model V is a touring-style iSUP that measures 12’6″x32″x6″ and weighs in at 30 pounds. A board that is perfect for paddlers who enjoy paddling longer distances without sacrificing stability or weight capacity, this iSUP really glides well in the water, tracks straight, and the dual bungee storage areas and multiple tie-down points give you plenty of onboard storage for gear.
Like all Blackfin iSUPs it comes loaded with top-shelf features like carbon fiber reinforced side rails, 8 action mounts, 20 D-rings, 7 grab handles, and exclusive fishing rack mounts.
Check out the Blackfin Model V Touring iSUP by iRocker.
Nautical iSUP Reviews
Nautical Kids
Budget All-Around SUP | 9’ x 32″ x 6″
The Nautical Kids iSUP was introduced by iRocker in 2022 specifically for kids and tweens. With a maximum weight capacity of 220lb, there’s even room to grow!
The Nautical Kids iSUP is still 32” wide for incredible stability for young paddlers and is made with the same dual-layer construction as the larger Nautical iSUPs. iRocker didn’t skimp on the accessories, either. The Nautical Kids has dual cargo areas, passenger handles, threaded action mounts and even kayak seat attachment points.
Check out the Nautical Kids iSUP by iRocker.
Nautical 10’6″
Budget All-Around iSUP | 10’6″ x 32″ x 6″
The Nautical 10’6″ iSUP was introduced by iRocker in 2020 as a versatile all-around SUP kit at a low price. The 2022 update adds a ton of functionality and is great for beginners, families who need to buy multiple iSUPs without breaking the bank, and anyone on a budget.
The Nautical 10’6″ is 32″ wide, giving it average stability for an all around SUP. It handles similarly to the iRocker All-Around 10′, although the latter is a little more stiff due to the extra layer of PVC material. The Nautical necessarily cuts back on some of the extras of the main iRocker line (like the number of action mounts and D-rings) and has a simpler set of included accessories. The Nautical 10’6” still offers iRocker’s quality and customer service at an amazing price.
Check out the Nautical 10’6” iSUP by iRocker.
Nautical 11’6″
Budget All-Around iSUP | 11’6″ x 32″ x 6″
The Nautical 11’6″ iSUP was introduced by iRocker in 2020 as a versatile all-around board at a low price for beginners just trying out paddleboarding for the first time, families who need to buy multiple iSUPs without breaking the bank, and anyone on a budget.
At 32″ wide, the Nautical 11’6″ has average stability for an all around SUP. It handles similarly to the iRocker All-Around 11′, although the latter is a little more stiff. The Nautical 11’6” has all of the great features of the 10’6” and the extra foot of length increases the carrying capacity and stability making it great for larger paddlers. As always, the Nautical 11’6” is backed by iRocker’s excellent warranty and customer service.
Check out the Nautical 11’6” iSUP by iRocker.
Nautical GO Ten Six
Budget Compact iSUP | 10’6″ x 32″ x 6″
The new Nautical GO Ten Six is a compact iSUP for those who want to get on the water wherever they go. The folding design allows for the board to fit in a bag roughly half the size of a traditional iSUP and easily fit in any vehicle.
To keep things lightweight a minimalist, the Nautical GO Ten Six pares down the onboard features compared to the Nautical 10’6” with a single cargo bungee on front, one threaded mount on the rear, and a few extra D-rings for kayak seat compatibility.
Check out the Nautical GO Ten Six compact iSUP by iRocker.
Nautical GO Cruiser
Budget Compact iSUP | 10’6″ x 34″ x 6″
The Nautical Go Cruiser is a wider compact iSUP that still fits into an incredibly small package thanks to its folding design. Like the GO Ten Six, the Nautical GO Cruiser features a more streamlined feature set and twin fins. The Nautical GO Cruiser’s 34” width makes it more stable for beginner and larger paddlers.
Check out the Nautical GO Cruiser compact iSUP by iRocker.
iRocker Originals iSUP Reviews
As iRocker expands their new ULTRA series lineup the iRocker Originals iSUPs have been shifting in- and out- of stock throughout 2023. We are not sure if, or for how long, iRocker will continue to produce these iSUPs. If you have your eye on one, now is definitely the time to buy as these may not be available in the future.
iRocker ALL AROUND 10′
All-Around iSUP | 10′ x 32″ x 6″
Measuring 10’ x 32″ x6″ and weighing around 24 pounds, the iRocker ALL AROUND 10′ iSUP is a stable inflatable paddleboard that is suitable for a wide range of paddling activities. This board has a maximum weight capacity of 370 pounds. It features two generous bungee cord storage areas at the nose and tail as well as 21 D-rings for securing your belongings and anchoring or towing your board. The iRocker All-Around also offers four removable neoprene safety grips at the front and rear which are great if you paddle with small children. Four multi-use action mounts allow you to attach a variety of accessories from fishing rod holders to cameras and more.
We recommend this length primarily for smaller paddlers, while most paddlers above 140 lbs will enjoy the All-Around 11′ or Cruiser.
Check out the ALL AROUND 10′ iSUP by iRocker.
iRocker ALL AROUND 11′
All-Around iSUP | 11′ x 32″ x 6″
The longer of the All-Around siblings, the iRocker ALL AROUND 11′ weighs 27 pounds and measures 11’x32″x6″. This board has a higher max weight capacity of 435 pounds. In our experience it’s become one of our default recommendations for paddlers, regardless of size, as the extra length provides better stability. The extra space also comes in handy for carrying a passenger (two- or four-legged), cooler, or other gear.
The ALL-AROUND 11′ features all of the same specs as the 10′ model (above), but in a longer board. If you’re looking for a versatile 11′ board that is affordable and well-built, the iRocker ALL AROUND 11′ iSUP is one that should be on your radar.
Check out the 11’ All Around iSUP by iRocker.
iRocker CRUISER
Cruiser iSUP | 10’6″ x 33″ x 6″
The iRocker CRUISER 10’6″ iSUP features a wide profile that delivers greater stability than the iRocker All-Around. This board measures 10’6″x33″x6″ and weighs in at 25 pounds. While you wouldn’t think being one inch wider than the All-Around boards would make that much difference, it does!
We recommend the Cruiser for beginners, paddlers carrying extra gear or passengers, or anyone who wants that extra confidence and stability on the water. The tradeoff is a little less speed, but we think most paddlers won’t notice this in most cases.
The Cruiser’s max capacity is 400 pounds. It features two generous bungee cord storage areas at the nose and tail as well as 21 D-rings for securing your belongings and anchoring or towing your board. iRocker also includes four removable neoprene safety grips at the front and rear which is great if you paddle with small children. Four multi-use threaded action mounts allow you to secure and use a number of different compatible accessories.
Check out the Cruiser 10’6″ iSUP by iRocker.
iRocker SPORT 11′
Performance iSUP | 11′ x 31″ x 6″
The first board ever released by iRocker, the iRocker Sport 11′ measures 11’x31″x6″ and is a good choice for more experienced, athletic paddlers who want a board that is focused on speed and agility. The iRocker Sport can support up to 385 pounds.
The Sport is faster than iRocker’s other models, but at 31″ wide it’s not as stable. For an experienced paddler (or an adventuresome beginner who doesn’t mind getting wet) the Sport 11′ can be a ton of fun. Its long, narrow dimensions make it nimble and quite responsive to your every move. Instead of a rear cargo area, it has raised EVA foam kick tail for increased control when using the back of the board.
Check out the Sport 11’ iSUP by iRocker.
Optional iRocker Accessories
- iRocker 12 Volt Electric Pump
- iRocker Electric Pump Battery
- iRocker Kayak Bundle
- iRocker Fishing Rod Holder
- Blackfin Fishing Rack
- iRocker Backpack Cooler
- iRocker 25 qt Cooler
iRocker Warranty & Returns Policy
We like that iRocker offers a “no questions asked” 45-day return policy for a full refund. You will pay shipping, which is common, but there is no restocking fee, which is better than most return policies.
The iRocker warranty applies to Nautical, Blackfin and iRocker brands. Blackfin and iRocker sub-brand iSUPs have a 3 year warranty against side seam leaks and 2 year warranty against any other manufacturing defects. Nautical brand boards and other inflatables have a 1 year warranty against all manufacturing defects. Other gear and accessories also carry a 1 year warranty.
Overall, iRocker’s terms are pretty straight forward. You can read their warranty and return policies on their website, irockersup.com.
iRocker FAQs
Is it possible to buy iRocker and Blackfin boards in the UK, Canada, Europe, and Australia?
Absolutely. iRocker SUP is an international company with online stores and local support in a number of locations around the world. To buy a Nautical, iRocker or Blackfin SUP board, just click here and you’ll be redirected to the nearest online store for your region.
How long do iRocker inflatable paddle boards last?
Every iRocker and Blackfin SUP board is covered by a rock-solid 3-year warranty (Nautical boards carry a 1-year warranty) that covers you in the event of a manufacturing defect and you’ll also have 90 days to check the board out risk-free. If well-cared for, your iRocker paddle board should outlast its warranty by many years.
How do you deflate an iRocker SUP board?
Deflating your iRocker inflatable SUP is quick and easy. Simply unscrew the valve cover, press down the valve stem until you hear a gush of air escaping, and then turn it 1/4 turn to the left. That will lock the stem in the open position and allow the air in your board to be released. Once most of the air is out, you can roll the board from the nose to push out any remaining air, before pushing the inflation pin down, rotating 1/4 turn to the right, and screwing the valve cover back on.
After deflation, how do I fold an iRocker SUP?
We like to fold the board from the tail as it allows you to work around the fin boxes. Simply fold the tail over so the fin boxes are facing up, then fold then use the spacing of the fin boxes as a guide to how tightly to fold/roll all the way to the nose.
What kind of glue do I use to repair an iRocker paddle board?
Performing an iSUP repair is typically an easy DIY job and we recommend Clifton Urethane Adhesive.
What is the difference between iRocker, Nautical, and Blackfin?
iRocker is the company’s core group of SUPs that balance features and cost. The Nautical line was added in 2020 as an entry-level range for beginners and cost-conscious paddlers who wanted a quality board on a budget. Blackfin SUP is the company’s premium inflatable paddle board range and it offers paddlers additional features and an improved SUP accessory bundle.
How much does an iRocker inflatable paddle board weigh?
iRocker’s paddle boards weigh between 20 and 30 pounds depending on the model.
How do you store an iRocker stand up paddleboard for winter?
When the time comes to store your board away for the wintertime, just pack it up and stash it away in a closet, under your bed, or in your garage. Also, make sure that the board is completely dry before packing it up for long-term storage.
Help! I’ve never owned an iSUP before and I’m not sure how to inflate an iRocker SUP.
Pumping up your iRocker or Blackfin SUP is super easy to do. First, unscrew the valve cover at the tail of your board and then screw the flexible inflation hose onto the back of the hand pump. Next, secure the pump’s hose to the board’s valve, flip the pump’s setting dial to “1”, and begin pumping. Whenever you meet significant resistance, just turn the dial to setting “2” and then to setting “3” to finish inflating your board to the recommended inflation pressure of 15 PSI.
Where are iRocker paddle boards made?
iRocker SUPs are made at one of the finest inflatable SUP factories in China.
