Starboard iGo Zen - Review 2023

Review

• DIVEIN.com Score: 4.5/5
• Construction: 4.8/5
• Stability: 3/5
• Maneuverability: 4.6/5
• Portability: 4/5
• Price/Quality: 4/5

An all-round board ideal for paddle boarders of all levels, the Starboard iGo series is an excellent choice for those starting paddle boarding or looking for a lightweight, recreational iSUP. One of the most popular board shapes from Starboard, the Starboard iGo Zen Double Chamber (ZDC) iSUP has a wider tail giving the board it’s straighter shape and increasing buoyancy and stability, especially when turning.

In performance and all round experience it’s similar to the Bluefin Cruise Carbon 10’8, though it doesn’t have the same SUP package as that Bluefin model.

The wider tail with the narrower midsection also makes it easier to hold the paddle close and vertical, improving tracking in the water. Using the popular Zen construction the Starboard iGo Zen is a more affordable board from the Starboard company and is also very lightweight, making it ideal for travel.

With the Starboard Zen construction method paddle boarders can choose between the double-chamber and single-chamber builds. The double chamber increases the board safety whilst the single-chamber making the board leaner and more budget-friendly. Two chambers also makes inflating SUP boards a little easier than single chambers.

The Zen construction method uses heat-welded rails to increase the strength of the board and create a completely airtight, mechanically bonded seam. The heat welded rails also ensure the board will last a long time. The use of galvanized 2000D rails also increases the rigidness and strength of the board. The added use of the linear dropstitch means the board is strong and lightweight, making it ideal for transporting to and from the water.

Overall, the Starboard iGo Zen is a great option for all paddle boarders of all levels, however given its increased stability and buoyancy it is a better choice for beginner paddle boarders, in particular. The Zen double chamber is more affordable than a lot of similar double chamber models.

Features

• The board has a unique shape with a wide tail and narrow midsection. This larger width at the tail gives the board a straighter shape which makes it more stable on the water. It also increases the boards’ buoyancy when turning, ideal for beginners to learn paddle boarding techniques.
• The narrow midsection also makes it easier for riders to hold the paddle vertically improving speed and tracking on the water.
• Full length EVA pad adding to stability and balance for users. This EVA traction pad increases grip but also adds extra comfort with its layer of cushioning. This is an ideal board for all the family to enjoy exploring.
• The board also includes a high quality EVA kick pad on the back of the board which aids when making pivot turns and moving the board on the water.
• As well as all the performance features the board has two bungee ties to hold down personal items (one at the front and one at the back of the board).

Accessories

The Starboard iGo Zen uses excellent materials in its construction and along with the added accessories it comes as an affordable, budget-friendly package. It comes with an Enduro paddle, a V8 Pump, a lightweight leash, Zen fin and high quality Re-cover bag.

• Paddle: The package includes a 3 piece adjustable hybrid carbon Enduro paddle. This paddle is strong and durable, great for long distance paddling. The paddle also features one of the most ergonomically comfortable handles on the market.
• Leash: A lightweight safety leash weighing only 70g is included in the pack. Made from Yulex instead of neoprene, it has an 80% smaller carbon footprint and when stood on it flattens thanks to the cushioning.
• Fin: The iGo Zen double-chamber construction comes with a no tools U.S. box fin. This unlike the deluxe double chamber comes with a 9” permanent fin.
• Pump: V8 double-action pump means the board can be inflated very fast. With continuous pumping cycles in both upward and downward action it also makes it easier to inflate your board to 15PSI. The pump also comes with a Tiki gauge which indicates the board pressure (PSI).
• Backpack: A Starboard Re-cover bag made from upcycled plastic bottles that is made into the strong 450D material. This bag features padded rucksack straps and a set of wheels for easy transportation.

Stability

Thanks to its unique shape, the Starboard iGo Zen Double Chamber (ZDC) inflatable SUP is stable and buoyant on the water. Its wider tail with the narrow midsection gives this board a straighter shape, this shape makes the board especially stable when turning. The Zen double chamber construction of the board adds to stability by providing a strong, rigid structure.

The linear drop stitching used in the Starboard iGo Zen keeps the board lightweight whilst also adding to the rigidity of the board, and in turn the stability. The added galvanized 2000D rails of the board also increases the stability of the board as it makes it more stiff and rigid, almost like a hard board.

The Starboard iGo Zen also comes with the option of the single-chamber construction (ZSC). We think the double-chamber is better as this technology increases the stiffness of the board, making it even more stable on the water and allowing it to tackle rougher water and chop.

Due to its shape and the materials used in the Zen construction the Starboard iGo Zen is very stable and perfect for beginners to learn paddle boarding techniques and maneuvering.

Maneuverability

The Starboard iGo Zen is made for easy maneuverability. Its unique shape of a wider tail and narrow midsection allows the rider to hold the paddle closer and more vertically, this paddle positioning makes it easier to make turns and control the board’s direction. The wider tail also gives the board more buoyancy when pivoting and turning.

The addition of the EVA kick pad at the tail of the board also makes it easier for riders to turn the board. We like that there are no cargo chords right on the kick pad too, which a lot of boards have. That means your feet won’t get snagged on them when learning how to do backstep turns.

The shape of the Starboard iGo Zen makes it ideal for paddle boarders who are looking to improve their techniques. It is a responsive, lightweight board and along with the stability is perfect for all levels of paddle boarders.

Portability

As an inflatable SUP board the Starboard iGo Zen SUP is very portable. The Zen construction used for this model of Starboard iGo is particularly lightweight making it much easier to transport. The added bag included in the package is made from upcycled bottles, and opens fully making it easier to remove and re-fold the board and all accessories inside it.

The bag also has wheels and backpack straps, this makes it great for transporting over varied terrain. The durability and strength of the bag is also convenient for those who wish to travel with their Starboard iGo Zen iSUP.

When inflated the board has a central flat-handle which makes it easy to carry to and from the water, whilst also being small and unnoticeable when using the board. There is also an added handle at the rear of the board. These handles make it easier to transport the board to and from the water once inflated. At 22 pounds it’s lighter than most other boards in this quality range.

Price/Quality Ratio

The Starboard iGo Zen is one of the most affordable boards in the Starboard collection. The Zen construction, high quality materials along with the comprehensive package make this board an excellent deal with a good price to quality ratio. Starboard iSUPs are premium boards and this is apparent in their high quality materials and innovative use of technology, these boards are built to be durable and last a long time.

The premium quality is apparent in every board with added features and accessories which add to the comfort of the board for the rider. It is apparent when using the Starboard iGO Zen Double Chamber that it is of high quality, as it’s very durable, sturdy and rigid on the water. For beginners, including all levels of paddle boarders, this board is a good investment if looking for quality and durability.

Optional Accessories from Starboard

• Starboard Lima Paddle
• Starboard Enduro Paddle
• Starboard Armacore Fin
• Starboard Net Positive Fin
• Starboard Coil Race Leash
• Starboard Surf Leash
• Starboard V8 double action pump

Do we recommend it?

Yes, we strongly recommend the Starboard iGo Zen iSUP. Recommended for all levels and excellent for paddle boarders looking to improve their techniques, the Starboard iGo Zen inflatable SUP is a great choice. One of the most environmentally friendly companies and boards on the market, the Starboard iGo Zen Double Chamber iSUP is made from high quality materials, guaranteed to last a long time and all for a more affordable price. Check out our full lineup of the best Starboard SUPs here.