Bradley Axmith, Waterworld Fanatic & Writer
The Waterwalker 132 from Thurso Surf is a solid contribution to the all-around stand up paddle board world. There are precious few boards that provide the kind of stability and solid performance potential like the Waterwalker for those starting out in the sport. Likewise, this SUP offers the yoga enthusiast and family equal amounts of possibility and joy. We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think: If you’ve landed a Waterwalker 132 you’re not gonna be disappointed. Unless you’re supping competitively, you’ll be pleased every time you stand up–in calm waters or chop around the coastline. This is a board you can get really good at too, playing around with back-step turns, changing your stance and touring around with a cooler. This package makes this SUP a worthwhile addition to your summer fun. See the complete list of the best Paddle Boards here! Features The Waterwalker 132 package is solid. There’s an amazing fiberglass shaft paddle, a dual-chamber/triple-action pump called the chimera, a backpack with wheels, a standard coiled leash, a repair kit and a strap to make packing down a cinch. A nylon compression strap to secure the deflated, rolled board together for easier packing. Stability is absolutely capital on this SUP. With paddle straps to hold the shaft, it’s become clear that this board was designed with SUP fitness also prominent in Thurso’s thinking. Whether performing yoga or paddling through a canal with a lot of boat traffic, even beginners will benefit on the balance side of things. Taking wake in from the sides isn’t a problem and the nose’s rocker form and weight of the board allows you to crest oncoming waves. Even though this is a beginner board there is room to evolve as a paddler thanks to the three removable quick lock fins. With three fins holding your course you can track well, but with just the main fin cutting through the water and stepping back with your weight, this heavy board pivots surprisingly well. The slight toe in of the smaller fins will give you better grip. Even though on the heavy side, it’s evident that this 11 foot board was designed to be travel-friendly. Getting it in the backpack makes that clear, with the wheels located smartly on the outside of the bag to avoid the shoulder straps interfering with their rolling along an airport, boardwalk or in a train. Being able to remove all three fins makes it easier to roll up–especially after sucking all the air out with the pump–and pack away, but it also means the 132 can be stacked on a car with other SUPs or stashed alongside the deck of a boat. It makes a difference. This definitely makes up for cumbersome weight of the board With so many SUPs on the market, competition is crazy. But whereas some companies either make compromises in quality or throw in a bunch of nice, but useless, accessories, Thurso Surf charges a reasonable price given the level construction and the performance potential of this board. All the extra layering means it’ll withstand punishing trips to and from the beach, but it also means the board will be slightly warmer in the colder months giving your bare feet some comfort. You’ll have it for a while for both learning to stand up and getting to be an ace. Optional Accessories from Thurso Surf: Do we recommend it? Yes, we absolutely do. If you have a little experience, want a SUP for the family, for casual touring or want to do Yoga, this is absolutely a board you won’t regret buying. See the complete list of the best Paddle Boards here!Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11 SUP Board Review
Our Overall Review
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Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11 SUP Board Review: Key Specifications
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Accessories
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Stability
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Portability
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Thurso Surf Waterwalker 11 SUP Board
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Is the Waterwalker 132 SUP board covered by a warranty?
Yes. Thurso Surf has a well-deserved reputation for treating it’s customers well. The 2-year warranty is a good one. Thurso will honor it.
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What weight can the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 board hold?
The 132 has a listed capacity of 330 pounds. In reality its sturdy construction will bear more weight though including both a pup and extra passenger.
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What does the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 board come with?
It comes with the standard bunch of essentials. To be exact, there’s a roomy backpack with wheels, a leash, a carbon-shaft paddle, a double-chamber pump, a repair kit, and two bungee cords to tie onto the 10 D-rings.
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What pressure can the 132 SUP board be inflated to?
The board can be maxed out to 20 PSI, but it’ll be nice and rigid at 15 PSI.
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How long does it take to inflate the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132?
I’ll take around 5 minutes to inflate the board with constant pumping. The double-chamber pump has enough power to inflate it in as little as 3 and a half minutes, according to some paddlers who take cardio very seriously.
I have a cottage by the lake and want a SUP. I saw a thurso surf at the beach the other day and it looked pretty good. What are the drawbacks of this board if I want it for my kids and maybe for myself to escape and maybe get some fitness in?
Hey Angela. I don’t know if it was this specific board from Thurso Surf you saw, but I tested the Waterwalker 132 and enjoyed it. It’s good for kids and you can take it out and expect some fitness and fun without any regrets. The only negative I might point out is that it’s heavy and not the most fun to transport as a backpack. But it has wheels and if you’re staying at your cottage anyway, no worries. Hope this helps. Cheers