bote traveller review

BOTE Traveller Aero 12’6 iSUP Review, 2023

Bote traveller inflatable paddleboard, overall rating:.

• Stable touring style SUP, great for SUP fishing or loading with gear
• Faster than wider stability-focused fishing SUPs
• Compatible with a wide range of BOTE accessories = you can customize this SUP to fit your needs
• Comes with included fishing rac receivers and paddle sheath, gives you a head start on setting this SUP up for fishing
• Not very fast for a touring SUP, though it is very stable so it’s a fair trade off there
• Fixed side fins need to be reshaped before each session, otherwise they hurt the SUP’s tracking capabiliites.

The Bote Traveller is one of the most versatile touring style SUPs we’ve ever reviewed – and for good reason. The Traveller is intended to be a faster and more efficient fishing SUP, as most fishing intended boards tend to be fairly wide and consequently slow, albeit extremely stable though.

The Traveller harnesses some of that necessary fishing SUP stability with its 30” width that is distributed down through the tail, while also roping in some touring board speed with its tapered nose. Though not the fastest touring style board on the market, the Traveller is compatible with a slew of Bote’s accessories, enabling you to customize this SUP to any angler’s dream set-up.

At the nose, the Traveller is compatible with Bote’s included paddle sheath to free up your hands while casting a line or reeling one in. It’s equipped with a front cargo area to stow away some extra gear and drybag, as well as Bote’s magnetic cup holder. Towards the tail end of the SUP, the Traveller is set up with cooler tie down points that double as kayak seat compatible D-rings. There;s also a pair of scotty mounts available for rigging rod holder accessories, or Bote’s fishing ‘rac’ receivers, which come included in this SUP’s package. As a final touch, there’s extra cargo space on the tail with the Traveller’s 4-point rear cargo area. As we said, this SUP can be fine tuned to become your ideal fishing vessel.

The Traveller would make a great choice for a SUP fisherperson who needs something a bit faster and a bit more efficient to get into some further off and more remote fishing holes. Stitch with us through this review as we dive into the details of this SUP.

We think the BOTE Traveller Aero would be great for paddlers who

• Want a stable fishing platform, but also want to be able to move more quickly than most wide fishing SUPs
• Need the ability to customize their SUP with gear
• Want a SUP that can handle a load of gear or a cooler
• Primarily fish in flatwater, but occasionally venture into choppier water

BOTE Traveller Aero 12’6 : Spec Sheet

• Main Category: Touring, Fishing, Inflatable
• Board Dimensions: 12’6 x 30” x 6”
• Listed Board Weight: 30 lbs
• Listed Max Capacity: 275 lbs
• Recommended PSI: 12-15 PSI
• Fins: 2+1 set up; 2 fixed side fins + 1 removable center fin w/ slide lock fin box
• Paddle: 3-piece; fiberglass
• Materials: Dual layer PVC
• Price Range: High
• Warranty: 2 years *if bought directly from BOTE

Performance Review of the BOTE Traveller Aero 12’6 Stand Up Paddle Board

Overall Score: 8.9/10

• Stability: 9.1/10
• Speed: 9.0/10

Tracking: 8.9/10

Maneuverability: 8.5/10, construction quality: 8.8/10.

• Features/Accessories: 9.3/10

Stability Rating: 9.1/10

Despite being a relatively narrower SUP, at 30” wide, the Bote Traveller is accommodatingly stable. This is likely due to the shape of the Traveller in that Bote has distributed the width all down to the tail, which increases your wet area – the portion of the board in contact with, and supported by, the water.

And while I initially had my doubts that a 30” SUP would be stable enough for the average adult to comfortably fish off of, Traveller is tangible proof that it can be done. As a smaller paddler, I had no problem moving around on this board as would be needed if you suddenly snagged a fish or needed to adjust your leverage to reel ‘em in.

The best thing about this SUP is that it harnesses a little bit of touring board speed without losing that classic ‘fish-able’ level of stability that we’ve come to expect from Bote.

Speed Test: 9.0/10

Before dissecting our speed test results, it’s important to understand that the Traveller is designed to be a stable fishing and adventure board that moves a bit faster and more efficiently over longer distances than Bote’s larger, all-around fishing boards. It’s expectedly not the fastest off the block, but it fits the prior bill pretty well.

In our Sprint test, the Traveller hit an average top speed of 4.45 mph (tested by Alli at 5’2 x 135ish lbs). This is marginally faster than the similarly sized Thurso Expedition 150, which reached an average top speed of 4.4 mph, and predictably slower than the 12’6 x 30” Nixy Manhattan with its average top speed reaching 4.53 mph. Considering the comfortable level of stability provided by the Traveller, its nearly mid-level performance in the touring SUP category is actually pretty impressive. So, enough with the numbers, let’s talk about how it actually feels to paddle the Traveller up to speed. As a smaller paddler, the main thing I noticed here was the Traveller’s weight. Being a 30 lb board, it definitely requires a bit more effort to reach its top speed in a short distance sprint. I found the Traveller to be more comfortably paddled at a cruising pace over longer distances, as it will happily hold on at about 3.6 mph.

Again, the Traveller’s performance in our speed testing can be easily traced back to its initial design. It’s not intended to be a fitness level touring board, but rather a solid fishing and adventure platform that will more easily reach distant, more remote locations.

The tracking of the Bote Traveller left a bit to be desired in the touring board category.

While we initially thought that the massive included center fin on the Traveller would keep this board locked on its path, we think its benefits are being hindered by the short flexible side fins. Because they’re angled so that the top portion of the fin is pointed towards the center of the board, these side fins contribute nothing in terms of improved tracking, and that’s even if they’re not bent out of shape. In reality, they bend to one side each time you pack up the board, so unless you take care to straighten them out before every session, you may feel the board start to pull awkwardly in one direction due to the side fins being tilted to the right or the left.

We’d honestly like to see Bote move fixed flexible side fins throughout their whole lineup, but it’s especially critical on the Traveller. Its tracking capabilities are the main aspect of its performance that hold the Traveller back from being a contender in the dedicated touring SUP category.

While stability and efficiency are built into this board’s design, maneuverability is not – and that’s to be expected for all touring style SUPs.

You’ll need to execute some more advanced maneuvers to quickly turn the Traveller around, but its stability makes these more manageable for less experienced paddlers. That’s not to say it’s impossible to use reverse sweeping strokes to turn this SUP; it will just take more strokes and more effort – it took us about 5.5 strokes to turn the Traveller 360 degrees.

The Travelled Aero is constructed with Bote’s ‘AeroBote technology’. Of course, this is just Bote’s coined terminology to label the build of each SUP in their lineup; it doesn’t actually tell you anything about how the Traveller is built.

All Bote boards that utilize their ‘AeroBote technology’ (not to be confused with their ‘AeroUltra technology’) are constructed with a linear dropstitch core, which is then encased in the first layer of PVC and bonded to it via heat, often referred to as fusion. This first layer is then encased in a second layer, bonded with glue. The rails are applied using a combination of heat and glue, and are reinforced with a strip of rail tape.

This construction is fairly standard in the industry, but it is slowly being phased out by most other brands that are switching to lighter weight cross-woven drop stitching. I’d personally prefer it if the Traveller was made a bit lighter, as 30 lbs is comparatively heavy, and it’s not the easiest to carry on long walks to the water, nor is it the quickest to get up to speed while paddling.

Board Stiffness:

Stiffness Test: 1.5” Bend

Our stiffness test, or bend test, is carried out by placing the SUP on top of two sawhorses spaced 7’ apart. We set 150 lbs on the board’s midpoint and measure how much it bends under the weight. Obviously this is not the same conditions the boards would be subjected to in the water. It’s rather just a stress test that helps us quantify the stiffness differences between certain construction methods.

The Traveller performed about averagely in our bend test, giving way to 1.5” of flex. It’s not the stiffest SUP we’ve ever tested, but by no means is it the flimsiest either. It performed similarly to other linear drop stitch and dual layer PVC SUPs, so all in all, about as expected.

Features/Accessory Review: 9.3/10

The Traveller has an extremely versatile set of features for a touring SUP. It’s another reason why we’d like to place this SUP into a category of its own, as less of a performance touring SUP and more of a quick and efficient fishing SUP.

From tail to nose, the Traveller is equipped with a rear carry handle, a rear cargo area, 2 scotty mounts for fishing gear, a set of 4 D-rings along the rails to attach a kayak seat, a center carry handle, Magnepod cup holder, front cargo area, 4 multi-use action mounts compatible with Bote paddle sheath (which is included in this SUP package).

As with most Bote SUPs, the Traveller is equipped with a set of scotty mounts. These are compatible with Bote’s rack receivers that come included with this board and can be used to set up a fishing rack, available on Bote’s site for an additional purchase. There’s also a front cargo area for storage.

At the tail of the Traveller, Bote incorporated a bungee cargo area, which can always be cut off if you prefer more open space to move around the board. With this in mind, we like that Bote added a diamond stamped portion of deck pad to the tail to provide some extra grip during buoy turns (aka pivot turns, or stepback turns). The remainder of the Traveller’s deckpad is brand stamped and grooved to prioritize comfort while still maintaining a bit of grip.

The Traveller’s fin set-up is, admittedly, not our favorite. While we like the removable center fin (though we’d still prefer a snap-lock or US fin box), the fixed 2” side bites are unnecessary for this board, and end up being a bit of a hassle. Because they’re placed at an angle, and extremely short, they positively impact the Traveller’s tracking capability at all. Instead, they tend to get bent out of shape when the board is rolled up, and can negatively impact the Traveller’s tracking if they’re not reshpaed before your session. The Traveller would likely be better off without these fixed side bites at all.

Included Accessories:

The Traveller is shipped with a long list of accessories. The included items are as follows:

• 3-piece fiberglass paddle
• 10” removable center fin
• Paddle sheath
• Rac receivers
• Single chamber hand pump
• SUP backpack

Although we love the Bote throws in a couple of extras like their paddle sheath and ‘rac’ receivers, we’re disappointed to see that the Traveller is missing a crucial piece of safety equipment: the leash. Your leash is your lifeline, keeping you within reach of your SUP in the event that you fall off; it is just as important as wearing a PFD. And while it’s easy enough to buy a leash separately, we can’t understand why Bote wouldn’t simply include their leash with each of their boards. It’s unacceptable and can give entry level paddlers the impression that a leash isn’t necessary.

We’d also like to see Bote add wheels to the Traveller’s included SUP bag, and move to a carbon blend paddle. At its current price, these accessories are just a step below what we’d expect, though they are still fully functional.

Summary Review of the Bote Traveller Aero 12’6

With the Traveller, Bote set out to marry the idea of a stable fishing SUP with a quicker paced touring SUP. And they’ve successfully done that, but it does come with some expected trade offs.

The Traveller is undeniably stable, making it great for fishing and frequently moving around the board. It’s also able to be paddled faster and is more efficient than Bote’s other wider fishing SUP options – though it’s not the fastest touring style SUP we’ve ever tested. It’s more in the realm of adventure style touring SUPs, those capable of hauling a bit more gear.

What sets the Traveller apart though, even in the category of adventure style touring SUPs, is the level of versatility that we’ve come to expect from Bote. The Traveller is compatible with just about every accessory Bote has to offer, and can be decked out in any variation to become your own customized fishing platform. For an angler that wants to customize their rig and reach further off fishing holes, the Traveller is the ideal board.

As always, we hope you’ve found this review helpful, but if you have any remaining questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us in the comments below.

Until next time, enjoy the water and try to soak in the last weeks of Summer!

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BOTE Traveller

• February 8, 2017
• Written by  Staff
• Published in Reviews
• Comments:: DISQUS_COMMENTS

Only best products in a given category receive “A” grade.

Paddle Board Highlights

• Price: $1,799
• Build: Non-Inflatable
• Skill: Intermediate
• Use: Touring

Who is it for?

If you’re looking for a fast, non-inflatable, premium touring board to paddle mid to long-range distances then the Traveller from BOTE is worth a look. This stand up paddle (SUP) board comes in the chainmail construction, which is durable and has its ups and downs. Due to its width of 28 inches the board is somewhat stable and it has 2.04 lbs per foot weighing 25.5 lbs total which is pretty lightweight for a 12’6” board. Its shape makes the Traveller perfect for touring and best for intermediate and advanced paddlers to enjoy recreationally. Its construction and shape combined best fit this board for mid to long-range distance paddling of 5-10 miles plus. Retailing at $1,799, the board is at a premium price point but comes with the best that the brand has to offer.

First Impressions

On first impressions, the graphics and color are stunning, the shape design is quite thoughtful and the construction strikes as durable. The Traveller has some gorgeous looks, coming with an exceptionally beautiful play on color and graphics, intended to be potent and yet with class. The shape design is unique for boards in these categories, offering features tailored primarily for recreation and the construction does appear relatively strong, as something that can survive constant but delicate use. This paddle board is easy to carry and the glide does feel fast which is no surprise since lightweight construction and speed-centric designs are a focus of this board model. The board comes with a grip of extra design perks including a paddle sheath which conveniently holds your paddle upright, a stash pod to hold your keys or any small items, tackle rack inserts and cooler tie downs which are great for fishing. And once you put it all together, the Traveller is a pretty stable board that most paddlers should be able to hop on and paddle away with ease.

Primary Use

Paddle Boards fall into two broad categories, All-Around and Specialty boards, with all-around designed primarily for recreation while speciality boards for top performance in specific disciplines

Durability is largely a result of the board construction and shape, with more durable boards typically carrying more materials (added layers, PVC, etc) and as such adding to the weight.

Carrying ease is determined by board weight and handle type, where a board weighing under 20lbs with a Liftsup handle is extremely easy to carry while a 35+lbs board quite difficult.

Stability is a product of construction and shape, where boards w/ 30”+ wide and 200+ liters in volume offer plenty of stability for your AVG adult while a board under 26” wide is a challenge.

Glide is a result of board shape and construction, w/ boards weighing under 30lbs and designed for racing offering best glide while recreational boards normally being on the slow side.

Learn more on the BOTE website .

Industry standard in board dimensions reads: L (length, from nose to tail) x W (width, from rail to rail at midpoint length), and H (height, from top to bottom of board at midpoint length).

Standup paddle boards tend to fall into 4 different weight classes: extremely lightweight (under 20 lbs), lightweight (20-28 lbs), average weight (28-35 lbs), heavy (above 35 lbs).

Volume is a key metric to determine how much weight a board can carry. Boards w/ 200+ liters offer most floatation with boards under 150 liters typically for high-performance surf.

Capacity is the max cargo weight a stand up paddle board can carry, considering not only the paddler’s weight but whatever else the paddler may choose to carry alongside him/her.

Add-on’s include bungee cords, a minimalist way to haul things; connexsup, which allows for all sorts of attachments, even fishing rods; and FCS II/Connect, for easy fin instal.

Handles directly affect carrying ease, with external grip handles (Liftsup & EZgrab) offering most comfort, Internal Ergo Grip the mid-tier comfort, and box handles as least comfortable.

Fishing rod holders and/or paddle holders can make paddling that much more pleasant, esp. when needing holders for the rod or having a safe place for the paddle during yoga.

Sizes Available

Similar products.

BOTE HD Low Rider Core

Pau Hana Endurance

NSP Touring Cocomat

Bark Expedition

For more detailed reviews and to look at similar models, visit Supconnect.com . If you like this review, give us the thumbs up. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments. And make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss the latest news and reviews from Supconnect.

• bote review
• touring paddle board reviews
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Bote Paddle Board Review | Read Before You Buy

iSupReviews is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site or this Bote Paddle Board Review.

Bote SUP Review Summary

If you are shopping or researching Bote paddle boards you probably have a sense of the SUP you are looking for – but hope we can help seal the deal for you.

Bote builds some of the most impressive paddle boards on the market whether you are shopping rigid or inflatable SUP.

They boards handle extremely well and come with what seem like unlimited features and thoughtfulness of SUP design. If you are looking for an inflatable paddle board for fishing Bote should be at the top of your list with the HD & Rackham models.

Editor’s Bote Ratings

Editor Review: ★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 Rating

• Value For Money: ★★★★★ 4.6 Rating
• Paddling Performance: ★★★★★ 4.8 Rating
• Leight Weight: ★★★★★ 4.4 Rating
• Sturdiness: ★★★★★ 4.7 Rating

Why We Recommend Bote SUPs

With Bote you know you are getting an extremely well designed and built paddle board. They may not be the cheapest SUPs on the market – but they are great value for the money you spend on these paddle boards.

The purchase of a Bote paddle board is definitely in an investment is a board that will live a smile on your face every time you paddle it for years.

Bote is truly an American company that is owned and run by a couple that live in Florida and use their products regularly – so you know they were designed by people who wanted the best for themselves.

Bote Paddle Boards Compared

Bote sup pros & cons.

After reviewing hundreds of reviews from real customers and comparing their comments, reviews and ratings we’ve compiled the following list of things that people like about Bote paddle boards and the things they dislike.

Pros Of Bote Paddle Boards

• Great designs and top quality construction
• Easy to paddle and stable boards
• High quality accessories

Overall the negative comments about this brand were pretty minimal and the majority of them seemed related to fairly minor issues that can easily be fixed with a call to customer service. Our assessment is that most of these issues are things that happen occasionally, no matter how great a company is.

• Pressure gauge on pump didn’t work
• Customer received the right board in shipping, but wrong pattern
• Boards do not come with an ankle leash
• The velcro paddle holder on the board is scratchy if you rub against it

Bote is about as personal and owner run as small companies get – and that’s one of the reasons we love their boards. This is truly one of those companies that was started because people who LOVE water sports got sick of the boards on the market not being good enough. So Corey and Magda (the owners of Bote) decided to design their own boards and do something about.

Back in 2008 while living in Destin, Florida they decided to cash in stable jobs as an engineer and the finance industry and took their savings and credit cards to start Bote Paddle boards.

You know when someone gives up their 401K to pursue a passion based business, they are going to make something worth owning.

Are Bote Paddle Boards Good?

One of the key factors to determining if a paddleboard is a good choice for you is what you plan to use it for. The great thing about Bote is that they will have a board to fit any need. So not only are Bote paddleboards good from a design and construction perspective, but they are sure to have a design that will fit your specific needs.

Bote Water Sports Products

One of the ways you know that Bote designs great products is by checking out their product line. The Bote products truly display a design team that spends their free time on the water and has caused them to design some products like Skiffs and Inflatable Docks that most other companies don’t spend time on.

Paddle Boards

Bote designs and builds 2 styles of paddle boards: Solid and Inflatable – so you can be sure to find exactly what you need. They make boards to fit your kind of use ranging from very specific needs like expeditions, hunting and fishing to family fun and all purpose paddle boards.

Solid Bote Paddle Board Models

• Breeze (10’6″ Boards)
• Flood (10’6″ or 12′ Board Options)
• HD (10’6″ or 12′ Board Options)
• Rackham (12 or 14′ Board Options)
• Travel ler (12’6″ or 14′ Board Options)

Inflatable Paddle Board Models (Aero)

• Kids Flow (8′ Board Options)
• Breeze Aero (10’8″ or 11’6″ Board Options)
• Flood Aero (11′ Board Options)
• HD Aero (11’6″ Board Options)
• Rackham Aero (12’4″ Board Options)
• Traveller Aero (12’6″ Board Options)

Summary Of The Bote Inflatable (Aero) SUPs

Bote breeze aero sup.

Consumer Ratings: ★★★★★ 4.9 out of 5 Rating

The Breeze is the newest SUP added to the Bote lineup and is designed to be a great all-around paddle board that is stable & extremely lightweight due to it’s AeroUltra construction technology. If you are considering this board we’d recommend checking out our full review of the Breeze .

Who’s It For: All-Around / Cruising – lightweight

Bote Flood Aero SUP

A fantastic All-Around paddle board for fun, fitness or relaxing on the water. It’s a convenient size to play, pack up or store but still has a great carrying capacity of up to 275 LBS.

Special Note: Check out the Full Trax option with means the deck padding runs the full length of the board for extra cushion and grip!

Who’s It For: All-Around / Cruising

Bote HD Aero SUP

A great All-Around paddle board that has a little more carrying capacity – up to 315 LBS – than the flood. It’s also designed with some additional technical features like Rac receivers so it’s Rac compatible for adding that fishing tackle rac or even a wheel set for easy transport across land.

Who’s It For: All-Around / Cruising with some fishing or higher loads

Bote Rackham Aero SUP

The Rackham is the perfect board for those expedition days spent fishing or when you are going far from home and need lots of gear. The core things that set this paddle board apart from the others is the 38″ width that gives a very stable platform to cast or paddle from, tons of carrying capacity – 400 LBS – and tons of features. It’s got Rac receivers for your fishing rac, a sand spear sheath and a paddle sheath to keep it safely stored.

Who’s It For: Fishing / Expedition Paddle board with extra stability

Bote Traveller Aero SUP

Consumer Ratings: ★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 Rating

The Traveller lives up to it’s name and is designed to cover distances. It features the sleekest profile with a 12’6″ length and a slim 30″ width that is designed to efficiently eat up the mileage quickly. It’s light enough to pack into remote places but still durable enough to handle those river rapids.

Who’s It For: Performance SUP for speed and maneuverability

A SUP For Every Use

While many paddle board companies often make 5 different styles of boards that all seem the same – Bote is definitely NOT that company. Bote makes 5 different styles of inflatable SUPs for adults and each one fits a specific purpose.

This is important because it means every type of paddler can find a board they love without having to make big sacrifices.

Best Bote SUP For Fun & All Around Use

If you are looking for the best option in the Bote inflatable SUP lineup for an all-around, recreational paddle board there are a few you should consider first. We’d recommend primarily the Breeze Aero and The Flood.

They are both designed to be easy to inflate, easy to paddle and fit the usual dimensions of a cruiser board. Be sure to check our our guides to compare and contrast the Aero Bote & Flood boards to help make the best choice.

Similarities Between The Breeze & Flood

The place to start is with the basic dimensions of these boards. The Breeze comes in a 10’8″ and 11’6″ options while the Flood has a single 11′ option. While a few inch differences, they fall into the same general size category. Both boards are also 6″ high.

Differences Between The Breeze & Flood

The Flood is an inch narrower than either Breeze option. The Breeze boards are 33″ wide and the Flood is 32″. The difference here probably won’t make too much off a noticeable difference, but the extra width will add some flotation and lateral stability.

One other factor to note is that the Breeze is a lighter weight board, coming in at 20 LBS for the shorter board and 22 LBS for the longer board. The Flood in comparison is heavier at 28 LBS. The difference is because the Breeze uses Bote’s new UltraAero technology for additional weight savings.

Best Bote SUP For Performance & Speed

What’s the best Bote paddle board for speed? Well if you want to move fast, the Bote Traveller is the go to choice in the Aero, inflatable board board lineup.

Even just the way this SUP looks is fast. It’s got an extended profile with 12’6″ of length and a fairly narrow 30″ width. Despite this slim, speed oriented design it still has 275 LBS of capacity.

But don’t think that means you need to sacrifice and the features and comforts of a Bote. This board is still Rac compatible, has a paddle sheath and a wheel rac for easy movement across the beach or parking lot.

Best Bote Paddle Boards For Fishing

Many paddle board companies say you can use their paddle board for fishing, but that doesn’t mean it’s designed for fishing. And a true fisherman is going to notice it very quickly. Not with the Bote HD or Rackham board. The Bote HD and Bote Rackham are designed specifically to be great fishing paddle boards.

So which Bote Aero SUP should you buy for fishing? Check out the quick answers below!

The HD Aero For Fishing & All Around Paddling – Great Balance

The HD gives you a little mid ground between an All-Around Paddle board and a fishing paddle board. It’s 11’6″ length paired with it’s 34″ width is going to give you a stable casting platform. Plus, it’s size offers plenty of flotation and up to 315 LBS capacity for you, your tackle, cooler and most other things you can think of.

And with those dimensions and it’s 30 LBS weight, this HD Aero is still fantastic to paddle as an every day, cruiser board. You can get out and easily keep up with any friends on those non-fishing days.

The Rackham Aero – Designed For The Fisherman

If fishing is completely your focus, we’d recommend the Rackham. At 12’4″ long and 38″ wide, it’s longer and wider than the HD which is going to give you a very stable fishing platform and 400 LBS of capacity to carry anything you need on your paddle board fishing excursions – including a second passenger.

This board comes with Rac receivers so you can add racks for your rods, cooler and even a sand spear to keep you centered in that perfect fishing hole.

Which Bote Inflatable SUP Should I Buy?

Let us break it down for you as quickly and simply as we can!

• For an all around, recreational cruiser SUP: Breeze or Flood
• For a cruiser sup to use fishing or carrying extra gear: Bote HD
• For an expedition or fishing SUP: Rackham
• For speed and distance: The Traveller

Bote’s Other Products

Bote sets their water sports design abilities ahead of the pack with their inflatable kayaks. Top of the line construction it paired with a seemingly endless about of features and thought. Together they make these kayaks a dream to setup and amazing to paddle regardless of what your use.

Aero Inflatable Kayaks

• Lono (12’6″ Kayak)
• Deus (11′ Kayak)
• Zeppelin (12’6″ Kayak)

Inflatable Docks

We are surprised we don’t see more inflatable docks being made! They are a brilliant idea for use in the pool, out on the lake or anywhere on the water you want to relax and catch some sun with an adult beverage on those dog day afternoons. Bote Inflatable Docks are designed brilliantly and should be at the top of your list.

10 Foot x 10 Foot

Read Bote Dock Review >

7 Foot x 7 Foot

Where’s The Best Place To Buy?

The options to buy a Bote paddle board are: Their online store, retail outlets or dealers and Amazon. You should choose the options that works best for you, but we prefer the Amazon route because most of their boards are available with Prime Delivery ! That means free 2-day shipping for most products and a great and easy return policy just in case anything comes up.

Overall we have found prices to be very comparable in all locations.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

© iSUP Reviews

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Gear Review: BOTE Traveler 12.5' SUP

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Bote Paddle Board Reviews

BOTE is notorious with fishermen as being one of the go-to fishing skiff, kayak, hard board and now inflatable boars companies. 

In these Bote Paddle Board Reviews, we go through every single model in their line-up . We compare the boards actively to each other and help you decide which model will suit you and your lifestyle. 

We analyze how the boards perform to each other and which you should choose based on a variety of different criteria including who it’s for, on-water performance and board features and design. We also look through a lot of customer reviews to give us a fully balanced outlook on each model.

We also go through an overview of the company as a whole and how they are to deal with as a customer. 

Let’s get into the review!

Best Bote Paddle Board Reviews Line-Up

Below are your choices for BOTE SUPs. What should be noted is that BOTE uses two different constructions for their boards AeroULTRA which is a single layer of PVC and the AeroBOTE which uses a dual layer PVC construction for their boards. 

To Jump to Each Section Click “Jump to Review” on the right under Price

Kids Flow Aero (Kids Pick)

Specifications

• Dimensions: 8’ X 30” X 4.5” 
• Materials: AeroBOTE Technology (dual Layer PVC) 
• Weight: 17 Lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 100 Lbs

Who It’s For:

Judging by the title of the SUP you guessed it! Kids! The Kids Flow Aero ranked 10th on our Best Kids SUPs for a few reasons. For one, its maximum capacity is 100 lbs which are relatively low, even for a kid’s board. 

The reason for this SUPs existence is to be your younger child’s first board . According to one reviewer, their 6 and 9-year-old (who is 89 lbs) seems to like the handling of the board. I would say anyone past the 10-year-old mark will start having a bit more difficulty trying to navigate this SUP. 

On-Water Performance

One thing that this board will do better than any other BOTE board is maneuverability . This is thanks to its 8’ length and shorter width. Which is great news for your child first navigating the board. But bad news for youtube “adult” because you probably won’t be able to stand on the SUP, to begin with!

Looking at some of the reviews on this board most younger/ smaller children seem to really like how the board paddles. But there are a few who probably have bigger children that felt the board was a bit more unstable for them due to the 100 lb maximum capacity

Board Features and Design

Truthfully in terms of Kids SUPs I do believe there are better ones like the Bluefin Cruise Jr and the Atoll Youth SUP due to their value. These SUPs can take on bigger loads and therefore grow with your children as they learn the ropes while the Bote 8’ Flow is rather limited to 3-4 years before your kids will outgrow them. 

In terms of accessories, the board comes with a hand pump, aero bag, removable center fin, and of course the repair kit . There have been a few complaints about the Aero’s paddle sinking due to it being aluminum. Aluminum paddles and kids are not really the best combination as aluminum paddles can sink and are heavier. And as we all know kids can be notorious for misplacing/ dropping things. 

• The Board features good maneuverability
• Reviews are overall positive
• Great for smaller framed children
• Ideal age group is around 6 to 10
• Paddle is known to sink 
• The paddle could be considered too heavy
• Board will most likely be outgrown quicker compared to other Kids’ SUPs
• The traction pad could be more grippy with a diamond pattern

• Dimensions: 10’4” X 34” X 6” 
• Materials: AeroULTRA Technology (Single Layer PVC) 
• Weight: 20 Lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 250 Lbs

The Wulf Aero is a great-looking board for introductory paddlers getting into the sport . The board is like a shorter version of the Drift paddle board which is BOTE’s off-brand Amazon board that’s 11’6”. This makes the BOTE Wulf an ideal board for smaller to medium-sized paddlers whose primary concern is board stability. 

In my mind, the Wulf Aero is also a pretty good looker for an introductory board thanks to its Native Floral design. I do like how BOTE has incorporated graphics from some of their more premier boards into the entry-level SUPs. 

If this is your first paddle board and you want to paddle something that feels stable in the water. Then the Wulf Aero is a solid choice to go with . The board has a rounder shape compared to other all-around models which make the board feel more stable on multiple standing points. Again, another handy feature for beginner paddlers just finding their feet. 

The Wulf’s 34” width and shorter 10’4” length make it a fairly maneuverable board as well compared to thinner 32” SUPs. Making is a solid pick to paddle along those mangroves in the Florida Keys. 

In terms of Speed and tracking this won’t be the best SUP in the BOTE lineup but it will be more than ample for casual paddling purposes that span from a few hours to a day. 

The Wulf Ultra uses Ultra Aero single-layer PVC technology. So there will be a bit more bend in this SUP compared to BOTE’s more expensive AeroBOTE construction boards like the Flood and HD Aero. 

The 10’4” WULF features two different packages . The introductory package includes the standard bag, repair kit, center fin, and coiled leash and paddle. The Wulf Aero package includes the Aero Pump auto electric pump as well as an inflatable Belt PFD. Which is really everything you need to get on the water. 

• Great entry-level board for beginners
• The board is very stable at multiple points on the board due to its round shape
• Board has a nice design
• You can include an electric pump in one of the packages
• Board is for the most part budget friendly
• The paddle is aluminum which is where they cut the costs a bit
• Board has some bend to it 
• Not a fan of the slide-in fin box

Breeze Aero 

The Breeze Aero comes in two different sizes. The 10’8” and the 11’6” with different designs and accessory combos that you can include with these boards. The Breeze is meant to be BOTE’s mid-range board that appeals to both beginner and intermediate paddlers of most sizes . 

The Breeze Aero is meant to be a kind of cruiser board that you can take around in most reasonable conditions.

In terms of On-Water performance the Breeze, like many of BOTE’s boards will be one of the more stable cruiser boards that you will come across. Several customers have complimented the board on its stability, even in waiver conditions. 

For slightly better speed and tracking it’s best to get the 11’6” board. Although this SUP won’t be the fastest all-around SUP that you will come across due to its more rounded profile. But it will be a little bit better in this department compared to the shorter Wulf Aero. 

The Breeze is designed very similarly to the Wulf Aero in terms of the on deck set-up. The Breeze is a more established lineup that has been around for a few years though. As a result this paddle board has more color and accessory options that you can choose from including adding a BOTE seat or Kula cooler to either package. 

This SUP like the Wulf Aero is made of AeroUltra PVC material which means it’s a single layer of PVC constriction. This will give the board a bit more flex when encountering waves and choppier conditions. 

• Decent price point
• Good Board that can do most On-water performance metrics well
• Comes in two different sizes
• Has a lot of different graphics and accessory packages to choose from
• Front Storage is roomy
• Not sure why the included fin on the 10’8” is different from the 11’6” SUP
• The fin is slide-in which is convenient but can be damaged easier

• Dimensions: 11’ X 32” X 6” 
• Materials: AeroBOTE Technology (Dual Layer PVC) 
• Weight: 28 Lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 275 Lbs

The  Flood Aero is for those who want some versatility in their SUP . A true all-around board, the wide deck pad of the Flood aero can be used for various SUP activities such as SUP Yoga, SUP Fishing or even using it as a kayak hybrid thanks to its Aero SUP paddle seat compatibility.

It’s a great board for both beginner and intermediate paddlers and is just a tad bit shorter width-wise than the Breeze Aero at 32” . Unlike both the Wulf and Breeze Aero this SUP has more compatibility with add-ons

The Flood Aero will have more glide compared to Wulf and Breeze thanks to its longer length and slightly thinner build. The tail and nose are also more tapered making it a solid board for intermediates who want an upgrade from their starter board . In fact, if you were to do a race between this and the other all-around SUPs offered by BOTE this board would most likely come out on top. 

This model has an interesting center fin that measures 10” long and allows the already slender board to track fairly straight in the water. This would have a similar performance to the iRocker All Around 11 board as they have similar dimensions and weight listings . 

Of course this extra length and thinner width it does make this SUP just a tiny bit more difficult to turn, especially when doing sweep strokes. 

This board can be almost anything you want it to be thanks to some key features placed on the board. Firstly the Flood Aero comes with Rac mounting points that can house either BOTE’s fishing rack or the bucket rack. The fishing rack features 2-rod holders while the bucket rack has 4-rod holder placements. This Rac mounting system can also house a wheel Rac which can be used to roll your board to the water. 

The SUP also comes with a paddle holder, Magnepod station, cooler tiedown points in the middle of the board as well as two paddle straps. There is also a rear two rows of bungee deck webbing where you can stash a small tackle box or dry bag.  You can also add BOTE’s kayak seat formation to this SUP thanks to its 4 D rings in the center of the board. 

• Best Speed out of BOTE’s All Around boards
• Features a lot of customizability options
• A decent amount of bungee storage on this SUP
• We really like the Rac compatibility 
• The board has cool decal designs
• Maybe a bit pricey for a starter board
• I wish they would use US Fin box set-up on this SUP

HD Aero 

• Dimensions: 11’ X 34” X 6” 
• Weight: 30 Lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 315 Lbs

Total Rating 8.25/ 10 (Averages of Below Scores)

• Stability 9.5
• Tracking  8
• Maneuverability 8
• SUP Construction – 9
• Deck Pad 8.5
• Deck Bungees 8.5
• Action Mounts: 8
• Handles 8.5
• Backpack 7.5
• Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

The HD Aero, like the Flood, can be seen as an extremely versatile SUP. The main difference is, this board is 2 inches wider at 34” in width. This makes it a more steady platform for fishermen who want to stand/ fly cast on the fly . It could also be used as a decent Yoga SUP although you should note that this board’s 30 lb weight may make it a bit more tricky to transport for smaller paddlers. 

It can also be a pretty good beginner SUP but its price point may be higher than what a beginner would want to dip into. But if you have the budget and are interested in pursuing SUP fishing then this is a pretty good board to start and grow with.

Stability will be at the forefront of this SUP and will be the main focal point in the SUP’s design. But unlike the Breeze and Wulf Aero boards, this SUP does feature a bit more of a tapered tail and nose . This with its 11’6” length makes it not too shabby for tracking to counter that 34” width. 

While the tapered Nose, tail, and the Bote removable drag-free center fin all aid in the board’s glide. This won’t be the fastest SUP simply due to the 34” width which will give the board a bit more drag in the water. In terms of maneuverability, it won’t be as quick of a responder as the Breeze, Wulf or even the Flood for that matter . This is due to the board being 11’6 in length and its heavier weight listed at 30 lbs. 

In terms of board capabilities, there’s a lot to list. First off like the Flood Aero, this SUP comes with rack mounts that can house BOTE’s fishing rack or bucket holder rack that allows you to house more rods onboard. This package also comes with a removable paddle sheath which is a device that sits on the nose of the board that allows you to slide your paddle into and hold it while you are preoccupied with other things like fishing, changing tackle, etc. 

As with the Flood Aero, this SUP also has a Magnepod retention system as well as 3 rows of bungee deck webbing at the front and 2 in the back. It also has the D rings for a kayak seat, a shoulder strap holder, and rear ones on the deck pad for a cooler. 

It should be noted that the package weight weighs in at about 48 lbs which is on the heavy side of ISUPs. So it’s best you are relatively close to shore when packing and unpacking this SUP up. 

• The HD Aero is very versatile
• Comes with a handy paddle sheath
• A Great board for bigger folks due to its larger length and width
• Tapered nose and tail help the board be more hydrodynamic
• Five rows of bungee deck webbing
• One of the heavier BOTE Packages
• Probably overkill for smaller paddlers

Rackham Aero (Fishing Enthusiast Pick)

The BOTE Rackham Aero only narrowly missed out on being the Best Fishing Paddle Board on our list. The Rackham Aero is like a Hobie fishing kayak for the inflatable paddle board world . In other words, this is a SUP with almost endless fishing possibilities including a swivel Apex pedal drive. The Rackham Aero is kind of like an in-between between a kayak, paddle board, and fishing skiff.

This is also a great SUP for big guys and gals where budget is not an issue and neither is speed. Its side walls give you that extra security feeling that you get from kayaks as well. The Rackham Aero comes in a 12’4 length and 11’ length . 

While BOTE Boards are primarily built to be stable the Rackham Aero takes this to the extreme. But in a good way. The paddle board is a whopping 38” wide which is about as wide as you will find from an inflatable SUP. This makes it an extra stable platform to cast from no matter what your height or weight is. 

This would also be a great pick for a fly fishing SUP as the board does not rock very much as you can walk around the board . 

Being such a stable board there is no doubt that this skews a lot of the other on-water performance metrics. But that’s okay as we understand no one in their right mind would enter this board in a SUP race. BOTE has come up with a clever way to counter the bigger/ heavier craft though. More on this below. 

The Rackham Aero has almost too many features to talk about in this two-paragraph section but I’ll give it a go. First off, most of the models of this SUP actually come with BOTE’s inflatable chair to turn the board into a kayak hybrid. 

Of course, the biggest thing that sticks out about this board is the fact that it is APEX pedal drive and Rudder system compatible. The pedal drive allows you to use your feet to propel the SUP without having to do any paddling. This will help with the speed deficiency the paddle board would have if you just paddled it. 

As with the other boards, the Rackham Aero comes with a paddle sheath, a Rack receiver (mounts for Fishing and Kula Racks) as well as the handy dandy Magnepod mount for whatever beverage you choose. 

• One of the most stable SUPs you will ever encounter
• The Apex pedal drive compatibility is a cool feature
• Comes with an inflatable seat
• Can include most accessories Bote makes
• Extra thickness ensures rigidity
• You will probably need a kayak cart to haul this SUP to the shoreline
• The board won’t win any races in just about anything
• Space may start to come at a premium with too many accessories and the paddle sheath installed

Traveller Aero

• Dimensions: 12’6” X 30” X 6” 

Who It’s For

The Traveller Aero is BOTE’s response to more and more SUP manufacturers making touring boards as the segment grows in the SUP industry . Its 30” skinner width and pointed nose and tail make it best for intermediate to advanced paddlers who have some paddle boarding experience already. 

The board is ideal for touring coastlines, lakes, and bigger rivers while covering a decent amount of distance compared to the other All Around boards on this list. 

While most BOTE boards specialize in having great stability. The Traveller goes the other way . It’s most at home with tracking and speed as are the characteristics of most touring SUPs. 

Its pointed nose profile allows you to travel longer distances and allows you to get that extra bit of glide per stroke. 

Stability and maneuverability will be this board weaker points at thinner boards typically have a trickier time requiring more sweep paddles to do a full 360. It’s 12’6” in length, while great for long-distance straight paddling can be a bit of a hindrance for areas where you need maneuverability. 

What makes this board unique compared to many other inflatable touring boards is its versatility. The Traveller shares the same features as other BOTE boards such as the Flow and HD Aero boards . 

For one the board has rack mounts on it so you can use it for BOTE’s fishing rack or Kula rack. The board also has ample bungee storage for longer trips,3 at front and 2 at back. It also includes the removable paddle sheath, Magnepod station, and D rings for both the inflatable BOTE seat as well as the carry sling for those smaller paddlers to help carry the board. You can also tie down a cooler due to the D rings on the inside mid-part of the board. 

• One of the more versatile inflatable touring SUPs
• A lot of add-on capabilities are a bonus
• Glides better than any of the other BOTE models
• Can be used with the seat
• Board is a bit heavier compared to other inflatable touring SUPs
• Relatively new model so kinks may still need to be worked out
• Touring ISUPs Should have a US Fin box but this one does not. 

BOTE Inflatable Kayak Hybrids

We won’t spend a lot of time on this as these are considered kayaks. But BOTE’s inflatable kayak collection is something for fishing enthusiasts to note as these boats can be paddled with a paddle board formation. They, like the Rackham Aero, can be packed up and stowed in their included bags. Below are some of the choices

• Bote Deus Aero : The Deus Aero is an inflatable kayak hybrid that actually ranked #1 in our Best Paddle Board Kayak Hybrids list . This inflatable kayak gives you a stable platform for fishing or just some good old recreational paddling in the water. The package comes with a removable seat set-up, aero rack receivers, a bag, and a center fin. 
• BOTE Zeppelin Aero: The Zeppelin Aero is what your typical inflatable kayak would look like but with shorter sidewalls. The Zeppelin Aero comes in the 12’6’ tandem formation or the 10’ single formation. If you are looking for a steady tandem craft that can be converted into a single then the Zeppelin Aero is a pretty decent pick.
• BOTE Lono Aero : the Lono Aero is the premier inflatable kayak that has a thinner profile to allow it to mimic similar performances to a hardshell recreational kayak. On Top of that, you can add the pedal drive to this kayak to make it a hands-free craft. Some packages of the Lono Aero come with an Apex pedal drive, electric pump, bag, 5-piece paddle, sand spear sheath with shear, and an inflatable seat. 

BOTE Add-On Accessories

Bote is one of the more accessory-rich inflatable paddle board manufacturers out there who make sure there are modifications to make paddle boarding, and fishing for that matter easy peasy. 

Apex Pedal Drive: The Apex drive is a pedal propulsion mechanism that you can install on the BOTE Rackham model. Give your arms a rest and go hands free!

BOTE Kula Cooler: The Kula cooler is rated as our best hard SUP cooler for a number of reasons. It’s one of the few coolers where the design is centered around paddle boarding. It can be used as a bucket or a cooler or even both! Almost all of the paddle boards on our list are able to either have D rings to tie this cooler down or have a rack mount for the Kula rack mount accessory. The Kula cooler also comes in a soft version as well. 

Rack systems : BOTE has a variety of different rack systems that you can use to attach to any SUP that features rack system housings. The HD, Rackham, Flood and Traveller Aero all have rack mounting points that are compatible with the following rack systems .  You have a choice between the: 

• The rocket rack is a short rack that has 4-rod holders. 
• The tackle rack which is a tall rack with two handles and two-rod holders, 
• the grab rack which has a grip bar in the middle for when you are moving around
• the bucket rack which surrounds the Kula cooler and has 4-rod holders. 

Aero SUP Paddle Seat : An Inflatable seat that can be secured onto any of the paddle board models that BOTE makes. It can also be used on other SUPs as well. This seat can inflate to 7-10 PSI. 

Magnepod Pod Bottles: You can buy magnetic water bottles or Soup containers from BOTE to allow your drink to stay onboard thanks to the power of magnets. The HD, Breeze, Rackham, Flood and Traveller Aero are all compatible .

Wheel Rac: If you have bought one of the heavier SUPs from BOTE then this wheel Rac will probably be of use to you. Especially if you got one of the Rackham Aero packages . This wheel Rac system can be used to wheel your SUP along without asking a stranger to help carry your board to the shoreline. The HD, Breeze, Rackham, Flood and Traveller Aero are all compatible .

Travelink Carry Sling : If you got a heavier SUP or you are a smaller person then this accessory will be of great importance to you. The carrying sling is meant to go over your shoulder to give you extra leverage for the heavier load. This is especially ideal if you are carrying your board that is already loaded up with accessories. 

Sand Spear and Sheath Holder: This is ideal for anchoring your board to prevent you from drifting away from that ideal honey hole or drinking spot. Some of the SUPs already have the sheath included in their packages to that you don’t have to hold onto it and have your hands free while fishing or doing other activities. 

There are still a few more which I haven’t mentioned. To see all other BOTE Accessories click here. 

BOTE Customer Service

One BOTE’s Facebook page they have 3.9/5 star customer reviews on various different products of theirs out of almost 400 reviews. 

In terms of the positive a lot of people felt for the most part BOTE made quality products and were overall happy with the various products they received.

In terms of complaints, a lot of reviews I read were unhappy with BOTE’s 20% restocking fee on returned items. We go through this more below. 

BOTE Warranty and Returns

BOTE offers a Limited 2-year warranty on their paddle boards and a 30-day return policy. As quoted by BOTE :

“ Subject to the terms of this policy, we offer returns within 30 days after the date of purchase. You may return your product for a refund back to the original payment method. We charge a 20% restocking fee on all returns.

Returned items must be in like-new condition with no visible signs of wear and be returned with all originally included parts and accessories.

All products are inspected upon arrival at our distribution center. If the product is found to be in poor condition, or if any originally included parts or accessories are missing, this may reduce the amount of your refund.

You are responsible for all return shipping costs. If you require a pre-paid shipping label, please contact us. The cost of return shipping will be deducted from the refund that you receive. ”

Where to Buy BOTE Paddle Boards

BOTE currently has websites for the United States and Australia. After talking to a service rep he confirmed to me that BOTE was looking to expand into Canada in the near future as well. 

If you are outside of these you can check BOTE’s dealer listing or your local Amazon store for BOTE paddle board availability. 

Below are common BOTE questions we receive. 

Which BOTE Paddle board Should I Choose? 

– The Bote Kids Flow Aero is best for Kids under 10 years old or very lightweight paddlers who want a maneuverable board – The Wulf Aero is a great introductory SUP that is super stable in the water. – The Breeze Aero is a Jack of all trades all-around paddle board that is great for both beginner and intermediate paddlers in a variety of different conditions.  – The Flood Aero is an all around activities board with an extensive deck pad that’s great for kayak hybrid, fishing, or SUP yoga. – The HD Aero is a fishing paddle board that is meant for stability but can still be had at a  relatively inexpensive price point. – The Rackham Aero is a heavy-duty fishing vessel made for almost any BOTE fishing accessory you can think of to be included. This is a more expensive and heavier board. – The Traveller Aero is a touring paddle board that has the customizability of SUPs like the HD and Flood Aero. It’s meant to track well and travel longer distances at a faster clip. 

Where Are Bote Paddle Boards Made?

BOTE’s paddle boards are made in China but they are designed and go through quality control in Miramar Beach, Florida. In January 2022 BOTE was acquired by Kent Outdoors.

What Are Bote Inflatable Paddle Boards Made of?

Bote paddle boards are made of two types of PVC. AeroBOTE and AEROUltra construction. The AeroUltra technology is a single layer PVC construction while AeroBOTE is a dual layer PVS construction . BOTE uses composite drop stitch fibers inside of the boards to make sure the boards hold shape. 

Similar Manufacturers

Below is a list of manufacturers that are similar in price point and quality to BOTE.

iRocker Paddle Boards

iRocker offers a larger distribution channel but is known for its large reach around the world. While iRocker is not as fishing centric as BOTE, they do offer the Blackfin line-up which rivals many of the BOTE boards in terms of add-on accessories and stability. 

See All of our iRocker Paddle Board Reviews here

Nixy Paddle Boards

Nixy, like BOTE, offers great craftsmanship with their SUPs although Nixy is more focused on recreational SUPs. However, the Monterey can in many ways be compared to boards like the HD Aero in terms of dimensions and on-board adaptability. I do tend to think that Nixy has better quality accessories such as their fins, bags, and even the paddles that come with their SUPs. 

See All of our Nixy Paddle Board Reviews here

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Table of Contents

Bote has made a name for itself as being a company that makes excellent SUPs that serve that let you make the most of your time on the water. With a wide variety of attachments for fishing and other activities, they are certainly one of the go-to brands out there for SUP fishing.

But a new contender has come out in the past year…well, not new, but with upgrades that can give Bote a run for their money. The appropriately named Blackfin brand may not ring bells to some, though it’s just the premium boards made by iRocker, one of the top names in the iSUP industry. It’s like the relationship between Lexus and Toyota. With the new 2020 lineup, they’ve really gone all out to reach out to the SUP fishing market that’s been slowly but steadily growing over the years.

Today we’re not going to review the boards themselves since we’ve already done that in great detail on this site, but rather which SUP is best if you’re going out on the water fishing. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll only be reviewing the 2 boards from each brand that are the best representations for this comparison.

Bote Flood Aero vs Blackfin X

Flood aero:.

Type: All-Around

Accessories : Backpack, 3-piece paddle, hand pump, repair kit, 2 Rac receivers

What we like: We’ll get into this part a bit later, but the accessories for this board are on point. As a paddleboard itself it’s perfectly balanced and rides beautifully. The Rac receivers that come standard give the attachments a stability that allows you to really get take on some strong fish.

Things We Don’t Like: Considering everything, the weight capacity is disappointing. This isn’t a lightweight board by any means so why it only takes pounds 275 pounds is a bit of mystery. When you think about the gear, bait and even snacks you might want to bring along with you, that 275 pounds can get taken up pretty quickly. The deck pad has a great anti-slip surface but isn’t all that padded.

Accessories: Dual-chamber handpump, travel backpack, 10’ ankle leash, 8 action mounts

What We Like: One of the biggest differences you’ll see here is with the comfort of the deck pad. It might not be as anti-slip as the Bote board, if you’re going to be sitting or standing on this board for hour after hour, you’re going to want something comfortable since you can’t just get up and walk around. Add to that the fact this is 35” wide and you factor in that super stability to the comfort mix. Also, the weight capacity is almost double the Bote board for a smaller board of the same weight.

What We Don’t Like: The attachment points for the accessories don’t seem as sturdy as they do with the Bote board. While they come with 4 times as many out of the box, the they don’t give us as much confidence when using heavier gear.

Final Score : In this round, we’ll have to give it to the Blackfin. While an overall better iSUP, the reason it wins out is because of the weight capacity and comfort — 2 major factors when looking at an iSUP for fishing. After all, 90% of fishing is loading up your gear and sitting around waiting for a bite.

Bote Traveller Aero vs Blackfin Model V

Traveller aero.

Type: Touring

Accessories: Backpack, 3-piece paddle, hand pump, repair kit, 2 Rac receivers, paddle sheath

What We Like: If you’re on the water for a while and have large distances to cover, you want a board that’s going to have the least amount of drag possible. This means that not only do you get to your destination quicker but less tired since each paddle stroke means more. This board does that, as it’s very sleek and fast yet the shape of the tail gives you added stability.

What We Don’t Like: As a touring board, it’s wonderful. But as a fishing iSUP, we’re not too convinced of its merits. Again, the low weight capacity can quickly become an issue as can comfort, as the board is very thin. Also, since it’s so long we would assume this is better for open water than the rivers and smaller bodies, but the low weight capacity limits what kinds of fish you can go after in those waters.

Blackfin Model V

What We Like: Similar to the Bote model, this is a thin board that moves very well in the water. The difference here is that since it’s wider, it’s more comfortable both while standing and while seated. In addition, the 485 pounds give you a lot of options, either to bring along a ton of gear or other people on your fishing trip. And what’s fishing without a fishing buddy?

What We Don’t Like: If speed is your big concern here, just those extra 2 inches can slow you down a bit compared to the Bote board. Also (and we suppose this is an issue with both boards), the long profile of this board means that you can’t get around as easily in shallower waters that require more turning and maneuvering.

Final Score: Again, we’re going to have to go with the Blackfin on this one. Although the Bote board is noticeably faster and would be better for racing, when it comes to fishing, you have to be comfortable on the board if you’re going to be out on the water for hours at a time. It’s true that both offer the option to have buckets for seats, but first off that’s an additional expense and it doesn’t say much about the board itself. Truthfully, we probably wouldn’t choose either one of these boards just for SUP fishing, though if we did, the Blackfin Model V would be out choice.

Bote Rackham Aero vs Blackfin Model XL

Rackham aero.

Accessories: Backpack, 3-piece paddle, hand pump, repair kit, 2 Rac receivers, paddle sheath, sandspear sheath

What We Like: Now we’re at the clash of the titans. This board here is the definition of a fishing SUP, almost to the point where we hesitate to call it that. There are attachment points galore plus the ability to use one that are specific to this board, such as the sandspear as a way to anchor in shallow waters. With a weight capacity almost double that of the other Bote boards, it can hold the kind of weight that all fishing SUPs should be able to hold.

What We Don’t Like: While we haven’t talked about this with the other boards, Bote boards aren’t cheap and this Rackham Aero is the most expensive. Add to that that you need to purchase the accessories above and beyond the price of the board itself, bringing you well over $2000 all decked out. Even though this board is pretty good on its own, those accessories are what make this board what it is.

Blackfin Model XL

What We Like: For its weight and dimensions, this board is strong and is very maneuverable. Having the ability to hold almost 500 pounds of weight is exactly the kind of feature we would want to see in a board like this.

What We Don’t Like: While this isn’t a lot wrong with this board, it would be nicer if it were a bit larger and carried even more weight. Other than that, we can’t really complain.

Final Score: To be perfectly honest, the Blackfin would have had to have been a much stronger contender here. We’re not saying that it’s a bad iSUP, but the Bote Rackham Aero checks just about all the boxes. It’s tough, stable and able to be outfitted with attachments that would make most small fishing boats jealous all with the convenience of being an inflatable paddleboard.

Bottom Line:

Before we give our final comments, remember what we’re doing here — looking for the best fishing iSUP, not the best iSUP between the two brands. Given how the competition went, you might be surprised by our conclusion.

As far as which is best, we have to split this one, but not how you might think. If you’re going to buy one of these boards we mentioned today and use it with nothing other than what comes out of the box, Blackfin is the clear winner. In general, they’re better built, have more weight capacity, and are much more comfortable than their competitors.

However, if we had the cash to buy the board and all the accessories, then Bote would give Blackfin a run for its’ money. Bote is by far one of the most expensive iSUPs on the market, but they’ve been making fishing iSUPs before anyone knew what those were, and today they are putting up a compelling case for first place.

But, as this section is titled, “The Bottom Line,” Blackfin has made an incredible effort this year. Their changes and additions to this board to accommodate the fishermen out there, plus the lower price, give them a significant edge.

All that being said, iRocker (Blackfin’s manufacturer) outdid themselves, and Bote is still one of the leaders in this field, but product to product and dollar for dollar the first place ribbon goes to Blackfin.

Wow, that’s what I was searching for, what a stuff! existing here at this webpage, thanks admin of this website.

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Best Touring SUPs of 2024

If you plan on using your paddle board to explore over long distances, you’ll want one that offers good performance so you don’t have to expend extra effort pushing it across the water. The best touring paddle boards tend to have a narrower, longer shape with a pointier end than recreational or all-around boards. This particular design allows you to move faster and stay straighter on long treks.

We sorted through the options and put together a list of the best touring paddle boards for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, based on their performance, stability, features, and uses. If you’re in the market for a touring paddle board, these are some of the best choices available.

For more of our top paddle boarding gear recommendations, check out the Best SUP Boards .

Quick Answer - The Best Touring Paddle Board

• Red Paddle Co Sport View at Backcountry
• Bote Traveller Aero Inflatable View at Amazon
• Boardworks Raven View at Amazon
• NRS Escape View at Backcountry
• Pau Hana Endurance View at REI
• Pau Hana Malibu View at REI
• Bote HD Gatorshell View at REI

Comparison Table - The Best Touring SUPs

Reviews - the best paddle boards for touring, red paddle co sport.

• Type : Inflatable
• Weight : 22 lbs
• Size : 11’3” x 32” x 4.7”
• Weight Limit : 260 lbs
• Comes With Air Pump, Tracking Fin, Repair Kit, All-Terrain Backpack, and Phone Case
• Grippy Foam Pad (to keep you steady on your feet)
• Incredible Stiffness and Stability
• Bungee Straps (to hold your cooler or dry bag)
• Center Handle (for underarm carry)

BEST FOR: OVERNIGHT TRIPS IN THE WILDERNESS

This inflatable paddle board folds down and packs up into the included all-terrain backpack so you can carry everything you need for your adventure on your back. When you need to cross a waterway, simply fill the board with the included hand pump to get on the water within minutes. The agile design helps you glide across the water and cover more distance than the Ride version but still maintains beginner-level stability.

Bote Traveller Aero Inflatable

• Weight : 30 lbs
• Size : 12’6” x 30” x 6”
• Weight Limit : 275 lbs
• Comes With 3-Piece Paddle, Tracking Fin, Hand Pump, Repair Kit, and Backpack
• Cushioned, Non-Slip Deck Pad (to reduce foot fatigue)
• Paddle Slot (to free your hands)
• Comfort-Grip Handle (for underarm carry)
• Adjustable Bungee Tie-downs (to store your equipment)

BEST FOR: THOSE WHO APPRECIATE CREATURE COMFORTS

The Traveller Aero has several features that reduce hand and foot fatigue, if that’s a concern of yours. If you’re worried about your hands going numb while paddling long distances, the comfort grip handles and paddle slot give your hands a rest. The cushioned, textured deck pad gives your feet the same VIP treatment.

Made with military-grade material, this paddle board won’t leave you shipwrecked on the open water. If the unexpected does happen, the backup repair kit helps you make it back to shore unscathed. This board is perfect if you want to tour the outdoors without “roughing it.”

Boardworks Raven

• Type : Solid
• Weight : 32 lbs
• Size : 12’6” x 29” x 6.7”
• Foam Deck Pad (to reduce foot fatigue)
• Recessed Center Handle (for underarm carry)
• Comes With One Fin (for straighter paddling)
• Bungee Tie-Downs (to strap in your gear)
• Includes Recessed Finger Wells, Fin Boxes, and Plugs (they’re not raised so you won’t accidentally step on them and hurt your feet)

BEST FOR: THOSE WITH A NEED FOR SPEED

Most beginners like to get the hang of paddle boarding before they even consider speed. But if you’re one of those people who longs for the fast-paced push, then you need to meet the Raven. The narrow, pointed hull cuts across the open water so you can cover more mileage during your marine expeditions. The superior durability stands up against rough handling while the trendy graphics line up with your aesthetic preferences.

• Weight : 26 lbs
• Size : 11’ 6” x 32” x 6”
• Weight Limit : 250 lbs
• Comes With a Leash, Dry Bag, Buckle Straps, Hand Pump, Repair Kit, and Carry Bag
• Includes Two Fins (to help you ride straight)
• Double Side Walls (to help prevent punctures)
• Nose and Tail Bungee Tie-Downs (for equipment storage)
• Three Sturdy Handles (to carry and pull from multiple directions)

BEST FOR: ALL-INCLUSIVE TRIPS OVER THE WATER

This paddle board package contains everything you need to hit the water right out of the box. Most inflatables come with a hand pump and storage bag, but this package includes a dry bag, leash, and tie-down straps too so you can pack up and go as soon as it hits your doorstep. The shape of this durable board makes it fun to tour fast over longer distances, even with all your gear in tow.

Pau Hana Endurance

• Weight : 31 lbs
• Size : 12’ x 30” x 6.5”
• Weight Limit : 271 lbs
• Rugged Design (withstands knocking against rocks and logs)
• Thick, Soft Deck Pad (to keep your feet happy)
• Nose, Tail, and Center Handles (to pull and carry from multiple angles)

BEST FOR: HARDCORE BEGINNERS WHO WANT TO TEST THEIR LIMITS

As its name suggests, this board is built to endure as much as you want to put it through. The name comes from the ship Ernest Shackleton attempted to cross the Antarctic seas on, a reputation you can take to heart as you traverse your own uncharted territory.

The durable build can handle bumps against rocks and other debris, while the pointed shape cuts across the water like a warm butter knife.  Multiple attachment points allow you to prepare for sea voyages with up to 90 lbs of gear. If you want to test your adventuresome endurance, this is the touring paddle board to make it happen.

Pau Hana Malibu

• Size : 11’6” x 30” x 6”
• Weight Limit : 249 lbs
• Comes With an Adjustable Aluminum Paddle
• Displacement Hull (for faster-paced paddling)
• Grippy Deck Pad (to keep you from slipping)

BEST FOR: FLATWATER TOURING

The wooden deck of this paddle board helps you get in touch with both the water and wood earth elements as well as the air you’re going to pass through. The pointed nose shape helps you cut through the water so you can explore the perimeter of the lake without letting the drag slow you down. If you want to attach gear or lock up your board, the Malibu has leash and accessory attachment points so you can customize it for your personal use.

Bote HD Gatorshell

• Weight : 45 lbs
• Size : 12’ x 32” x 5”
• Weight Limit : 315 lbs
• Comes With a Matching Paddle
• Stand-Up Paddle Mount (to free up your hands)
• Cushioned, Anti-Slip Deck Pad (for sure footing)
• Storage Tie-Downs and Mounts (for your belongings)

BEST FOR: BEGINNERS WHO WANT EXTRA STABILITY

This ultra-cool paddle board not only looks cool, but it offers user versatility for beginning and intermediate tourers. The extra length and tapered nose give you a little more stability than the standard touring board so you can find your footing first. All the extra features are what really make this premier board extraordinary. It offers a spot to rest your paddle upright, two bungee storage areas, a small watertight storage compartment, and a comfortable grab handle for carrying ease. You’ll love going out fishing with the family on this high quality SUP!

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A TOURING PADDLE BOARD

The features your board comes with and what it’s made out of factor into the cost of your new toy. Decide which features are most important to you and also consider how much you want to spend to try your new sport. Many beginners prefer to experiment on less expensive models before investing a greater deal of money into more expensive boards.

Touring boards tend to be a little less stable than SUPs for yoga or recreational boards because of their design. However, some touring boards offer more stability than others. If you want to tour hard and fast, less stable models usually travel faster. If you have stability issues, look for wider, more tapered models to help you find your footing.

Paddle boards have to be carried by hand from the shore to the water, so the weight of the board itself is important to consider. Most of the boards in this list are under 30 lbs, which is pretty manageable for the average adult. But weight is worth considering if you have any carrying weight restrictions or concerns.

WEIGHT LIMIT

Every paddle board also has a suggested weight limit based on buoyancy. You need to make sure your weight plus the weight of your equipment or canine passengers fits within that suggested limit for the best ride.

There are many advantages and disadvantages to consider when deciding between solid versus inflatable versions of stand up paddle boards. Inflatable versions are easier to store and transport but require some setup. Solid models won’t pop, but the most current inflatables are made of impact-resistant materials that are very difficult to puncture, so popping shouldn’t be an issue either way. In the end, whether you choose a solid or inflatable-type paddle board is up to your personal preferences and needs. For help on making your decision, you can learn how to choose the right stand up paddle board for you.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

The rails refer to the sides of the board. While low rails are necessary for surfers who need to lean and cut through waves, raised rails make you feel more stable on a paddle board. The rails are also what absorb the most impact when you bump against rocks and logs.

TRACKING FIN

Tracking fins attach to the bottom of the board and help keep your paddle board aligned when you’re paddling straight. Fins are especially essential for inflatable boards to keep them from being pushed around in the wind.

The deck pad is the layer of material on the top of the board, under your feet. Usually, the deck pad is textured and cushioned to help prevent slippery, achy feet. A hard, wet, slippery deck would make paddle boarding a nightmare without the anti-slip support.

DISPLACEMENT HULL

The hull refers to the shape of the bottom of the board. Most touring boats have displacement hulls, which refers to the pointed nose shape. The pointy shape cuts through water and allows for faster-paced paddling, meaning you don’t have to exert extra effort to move farther across the water. This is especially important if you plan to tour over a long distance so you don’t tire too quickly.

A vent plug is an opening on the board that allows air to flow through the layers of the board and balance out the air pressure. Changing altitude, air, and water temperatures impact each layer of the board differently. If pressure isn’t equalized, the board can warp, bubble, and buckle.

Read through this comprehensive list to learn more about the parts of the paddle board.

For more of our top stand up paddle boarding gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

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Bote Traveller Aero 12’6″ Inflatable Paddleboard

$ 1,099.00 Original price was: $1,099.00. $ 824.25 Current price is: $824.25.

The Traveller Aero 12’6″ Native Sandstone Inflatable Paddle Board is still efficient-yet smooth, stable-yet agile, and sexy-yet tough, but offering the ease of portability you want in an inflatable.

ITEM OUT OF STOCK

• Description
• Additional information
• California residents

Bote Boards Traveler 12’6″ Touring Inflatable SUP Package

The Traveller Aero 12′6″ Inflatable paddle board strikes a remarkable balance: it’s efficient yet smooth, stable yet agile, and possesses an enticing blend of sleekness and resilience. With the added benefit of portability inherent in an inflatable, this board is your ideal companion for journeys to distant locales or navigating challenging river rapids. The combination of its streamlined, slender form and robust AeroBOTE construction ensures that the Traveller Aero is the ultimate vessel to carry you across any distance.

Color: Native Sand

NOW WITH MAGNEPOD™ The MAGNEPOD™ magnetic base is a revolutionary, tool-less drink retention system that makes securing your  BOTE ma gnetic drinkware  a snap.

• Front and rear bungee tie-downs
• Kula Cooler tie-downs
• Travelink™ SUP Carry System Compatible
• Paddle carrying system located on the rails
• Rac mounting points compatible with all BOTE Rac accessories.
• Paddle Sheath Holder Compatible

Technology: AeroBote Technology

BOTE inflatable paddle boards transform from a form factor small enough to fit in a backpack into a fully functional SUP in minutes. This system allows for superior ease of transportation and storage. Don’t worry about scratches and dings because the military-grade PVC skin is virtually indestructible. The inner core of our AeroBOTEs has tens of thousands of composite fibers that connect the top and bottom halves of the board and when under pressure create solid board rigidity. So let your adventurous side run wild and take your AeroBOTE with you!

Perfect for these Skill Levels

BEGINNER    INTERMEDIATE   ADVANCED

RAVELINK™ COMPATIBLE

Travelink™ SUP Carry System Compatible to transport your BOTE hands-free over long distances safely and ergonomically with ease.

TIE-DOWN POINTS

Tie down points on the deck of the board, perfect for lashing down a cooler (or other gear).

FRONT & REAR BUNGEES

Adjustable Bungee Straps provide quick and easy storage of extra gear and are available on all of our board and kayak models.

INTEGRATED PADDLE STRAP

Velcro straps along the rails of the board that allows for quick and easy storage of your paddle when not in use.

BVA FOAM DECK PAD

The BVA multi-textured deck pad is heat sealed to shed water and provides plenty of cushion to reduce fatigue and anti-slip traction.

AERO SUP PADDLE SEAT COMPATIBLE

Transform any Travelink™ compatible BOTE paddle board into a sit-down paddle vessel with the addition of our all-new Aero SUP Paddle Seat.

RAC COMPAITBLE

Rac mounting points compatible with all BOTE Rac accessories. *Excludes Rocket Rac.

PADDLE SHEATH

Located in the bow of the board, the Paddle Sheath holds the blade end of the paddle, freeing up the hands for other activities.

BOTE BOARDS MAGNEPOD™ COMPATIBLE

Compatible with our MAGNEPOD magnetic drinkware and accessory retention system.

Technical Information

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TRAVELLER Aero Inflatable Paddle Boards

Buy Aero Not Inflatable

Aero Technology

Meet the traveller aero inflatable paddle board.

Wherever you want to go, the Traveller Aero Inflatable Paddle Board helps you go farther. The touring paddle board is reimagined as an inflatable SUP that helps you go the distance on the water and travels any distance thanks to its ease of portability. It’s highly stable platform makes it the perfect companion for fitness paddling and leisurely hanging out on the water.

Classic Teak

Available in 12′6″

GOING THE DISTANCE

It’s stable, it’s agile, it’s 12’6” of smooth movement. With a weight capacity of 275 lbs., the Traveller Aero Inflatable Paddle Board was designed to travel to the ends of the earth, both on and off the water. It’s highly stable, thanks to its thick rails and a flat bottom hull, but doesn’t compromise your mobility, with center and side fins to increase tracking plus an entry rocker nose to shed water. The sleep and slim design is constructed with AeroBOTE TM Technology and packs down into a portable carry bag that fits into the trunk of your car.

TAKE YOUR EXPEDITION FARTHER

Traveller Aero is for the expeditionists who push boundaries and take their paddle ventures farther than mainstream outdoor enthusiasts. We've combined the sleek and agile design of our epoxy Traveller, with the portability and durability of our AeroBOTE technology to create an inflatable platform built to carry you to the end of the earth.

FEATURES FOR THE LONG HAUL

We've outfitted Traveller Aero with both center and side fins to give you increased tracking, along with a flat bottom and entry rocker to make it stable as hell even in the roughest of waters.

STYLE IS EVERYTHING

Offered in a Classic and Classic Teak style, The Traveller is wrapped in our signature faux wood with nods of seafoam and burnt orange on both the top and bottom of the board. You can’t go wrong with the Classic faux wood design, and you also can’t go wrong with the Classic Teak faux wood design, so consider yourself in a win/win situation when selecting your style. These timeless designs will surely make you stand apart and go the distance with the Traveller Aero Inflatable Paddle Board.

Key Features

New feature magnepod™.

Take advantage of our MAGNEPOD™ accessory lineup with BOTE's latest innovation, the MAGNEPOD™.

Shop MAGNEPOD Accessories

Grab Handles

Redesigned to be the most comfortable Grab Handle found on any paddlecraft. No more numb fingers or weak leverage while transporting your board.

Front & REAR Bungees

Adjustable Bungee Straps provide quick and easy storage of extra gear and are available on all of our board and kayak models.

Travelink™ Compatible

Travelink™ SUP Carry System Compatible to transport your BOTE hands-free over long distances safely and ergonomically with ease.

Shop Travelink™

Detachable Aero Center Fin

A center fin that is removable with a tethered attachment pin to allow for ease of transport and storage.

SIDE BITE FINS

These fins are molded into the hull for increased tracking.

Entry Rocker

All inflatable boards have an entry rocker style hull. The entry rocker is designed to keep the board nose up and shed water.

BVA Foam Deck Pad

The BVA multi-textured deck pad is heat sealed to shed water and provides plenty of cushion to reduce fatigue and anti-slip traction.

Tie-Down Points

Tie down points on the deck of the board, perfect for lashing down a cooler (or other gear).

Shop Coolers

Paddle Sheath

Located in the bow of the board, the Paddle Sheath holds the blade end of the paddle, freeing up the hands for other activities.

Rac Compaitble

Rac mounting points compatible with all BOTE Rac accessories. *Excludes Rocket Rac.

Shop Rac Systems

Wheel Rac Compatible

The Wheel Rac was designed to make transporting your BOTE and your gear easy and simple by rolling instead of carrying. Balloon tires allow you to glide over almost any terrain with minimal effort.

Shop Wheel Rac

Made with AeroBOTE

Constructed with our Aero Technology™ to ensure peak rigidity and performance.

2-YEAR WARRANTY

If our product isn't performing as it should, don't hesitate to reach out to our customer service team.

MADE WITH AEROTECH

Our portable, highly durable AeroBOTE inflatable technology lets you take adventure with you wherever you go.

FREE SHIPPING

Go ahead, make it yours! FREE shipping on orders over $100 in the contiguous U.S., including freight.

30-DAY AERO GUARANTEE

We want you to be 100% satisfied. Try it for 30 days and if for any reason you aren't happy, return it to us. Returns subject to a restocking fee. Terms and Conditions apply.

Compare MODELS

Traveller aero vs traveller epoxy.

• BOTE Board Reviews Stand Up Paddle Boards

BŌTE Board SUPs- Paddle Board Reviews 2024

• July 2, 2023

An innovative paddle board company that is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to SUP performance and design, Fort Walton Beach-based BŌTE Boards has a growing lineup of feature-packed SUPs and paddling accessories.

Spearheaded by BŌTE founder Corey Cooper , the company currently offers boards in the following styles:

• Native (rigid SUPs with artistic paint schemes)
• Classic (hard boards with wood inlays)
• Gatorshell (durable rigid boards made with advanced plastics)
• AeroBOTE (inflatables)

In this review of BŌTE’s iSUP lineup, we’re going to focus exclusively on the company’s AeroBŌTE inflatable line. At the moment, BŌTE’s inflatable paddle board lineup consists of five models that are designed for all-around paddling, fishing, and touring:

• Flood Aero (most affordable)
• HD Aero (all-purpose)
• Rackham Aero (max capacity)
• Traveller Aero (touring)
• Rover Aero (motor compatible)

Where to Buy BŌTE SUP Boards

BŌTE’s popular line of paddle boards is available at REI . In addition to their low prices, great sales, and excellent customer support, REI offers a free shipping option with REI store pickup.

BŌTE Inflatable Paddle Board Comparison Chart

Bōte paddle board reviews, bōte flood aero.

BŌTE’s most affordable inflatable SUP, the Flood Aero is a feature-packed, all-around board that can be used for everything from recreational paddling to SUP fishing. This incredibly durable board features cooler tie-downs, attachment points for fishing accessories and gear, and dual bungee storage areas.

Measuring 11′ x 32″ x 6″ and weighing 28 pounds, the BŌTE Flood Aero provides excellent stability and enough versatility to be enjoyed by paddlers of all skill levels in a variety of conditions. For more info on this board, read our  BŌTE Flood Aero SUP board review .

BŌTE HD Aero

Another all-around model in BŌTE’s inflatable SUP line is the popular HD Aero . The most versatile inflatable paddle board currently offered by BŌTE, the HD Aero iSUP offers a nice blend of speed, stability, and top-shelf features. BŌTE is well-known for their stunning color schemes and graphics, and the HD Aero is offered in three beautiful, eye-catching designs: Bug Slinger, Classic, and Core.

This board measures 11’6″ x 34″ x 6″ and it weighs in at 30 pounds.

BŌTE Rackham Aero

An incredibly stable iSUP that is capable of supporting an impressive max weight of 400 pounds, the BŌTE Rackham Aero is a great option for larger paddlers, fishing, and overnight SUP expeditions that require a ton of gear. The Rackham Aero is available in BŌTE’s Classic and Verge Camo styles, and it features Rac compatibility, cooler tie-downs, a paddle sheath, dual bungee storage areas, and more.

This serious SUP fishing rig measures 12’4″ x 38″ x 7″ and it weighs in at 45 pounds. For more information, check out our  BŌTE Rackham Aero SUP board review  page.

BŌTE Traveller Aero

The BŌTE Traveller Aero is a fast paddling, high-performance inflatable touring board that glides well and provides respectable overall stability. Currently available in BŌTE’s stunning Native style, the Traveller Aero measures 12’6″ x 30″ x 6″ and weighs in at 30 pounds.

Featuring dual bungee storage areas and plenty of tie-down attachment points for securing additional gear, BŌTE’s Traveller Aero is a great option if you’re looking for a premium inflatable touring SUP.

BŌTE Rover Aero

The newest addition to BŌTE’s impressive inflatable SUP lineup is the Rover Aero. Essentially a boat in a bag, this massive iSUP offers the ability to mount a motor and can be used as a skiff, dinghy, tender, or SUP. Measuring 12’6″ x 40.5″ x 5″ (cockpit) and weighing in at a hefty 63 pounds, this board is capable of hauling up to 500 pounds.

Whether you’re paddling, fishing, or motoring around, this ultra-durable board is capable of handling anything you throw at it. Check out our  BŌTE Rover Aero SUP board review  page for additional details on this new fishing iSUP.

BŌTE’s Warranty Information

All of BŌTE’s new Aero iSUPs are covered by a 1-year warranty on all manufacturing defects. BŌTE requires you to complete their online warranty registration form within 30 days of the original purchase in order for the warranty to be activated, and you should hang on to your sales receipt in the event that it’s needed in the future to show proof of purchase.  Learn more about the warranty on their website .

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BOTE HD Description

The BOTE HD is a sup brought to you by BOTE Boards . Read BOTE HD reviews or submit your own review to share with the paddling community. Check out a few other sup recommendations below or explore all sups to find the perfect one for you!

• More information about BOTE HD
• View all products from BOTE Boards

Additional Attributes

• Front and Rear Bungee Straps
• Grab Handles
• Lift SUP Handle
• Paddle Sheath
• BVA Foam Deck Pad
• Cooler Tie-Down Points
• Manufacturer

BOTE Boards BOTE HD Reviews

Read reviews for the BOTE HD by BOTE Boards as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

Embed these reviews on your site

after less than 1 year of…

after less than 1 year of very light use the nose of the board almost has a hole. No where near as tough as advertised. Actually I would consider it false advertising hope the judge sees it that way also. There are videos of these boards being drug over oyster beds and that sort of thing. If this board even sees a oyster it gets a scratch. Boat does not know how to repair them or either refuses to share that information as it is not fiberglass but plastic which you do not repair the same. They told me to put clear coat over it but when I asked what kind is compatible no answer. There are many different kind. The boards ride well they look great in the show room but for use as intended not durable enough wast of 1800 dollars. Save your money

Within 3 months of purchasing…

The bote hd product it’s so…, great board for stability &…, the bote hd is one of my….

The Bote HD is one of my absolute favorite paddle boards. While it’s a little pricey, it’s completely worth it for what you get. I fish in the bays near the Gulf of Mexico and this board is perfect to fit a cooler, myself, gear, and even another person sometimes if I wanted to. It’s durable, absolutely beautiful as far as looks, and feels great to be on and in the water. I bought mine used and it’s been the best decision I’ve made for a while!

If you're looking for a…

If you're looking for a excessively heavy board that is not competitively priced and is manufactured by a company that does NOT stand behind its product, then this is the board for you! Unfortunately, I was smitten by the nifty graphics, and made the poor decision to make this disappointing purchase. There are SO many more superior boards on the market that I would happily trade for!

I bought the 12' Core model…

I bought the 12' Core model which has a full deck pad coverage and makes for a quiet surface for fishing especially when dropping a lure down near the bow. The tracking is solid and even gets better after adding the side bite fins. The speed is decent for a 32" wide board and handles chop and small swells easily with only minor hull slap. It also provides a little better stability than some of the other Touring/Fishing boards I have used. Pros: Lots of user versatility and options. Holds value over time. Cons: Pricey

Fading paint

I bought a bote paddle board about 2 years ago and while it still performs very well, the paint faded terribly. I have to say for what we spent on it I am really disappointed in the aesthetic decline. My boyfriend has a much cheaper paddle board and its paint has held up wonderfully. My bote board does float and glide very well - so functionally it is just as stable today as when I purchased it :) however the next board I buy will not be a bote.

This was the perfect upgrade…

My husband and i have loved…, i paddled the bote 12.6 hd…, this is my first sup and it…, i'm 240 lbs, haven't used it….

I'm 240 lbs, haven't used it to fish but needed something faster. I'm able to keep up with an older friend on a race board for most paddling. Much better going into waves than a flat board, more stable than most flat boards too!

Pros Stability, speed, looks, (get lots of compliments) space to put life jacket and things!

Cons I have the aqua color which I love but when it scratches, I haven't found a good touch up color! Usage Exercise touring

Lots of compliments on the looks, very stable for 250 lb…

Lots of compliments on the looks, very stable for 250 lb male! Bow is quiet in chop, much easier going into the wind, very good speed

Pros Stability! Speed! Looks!

Cons The aqua color is hard to match when it scratches! Usage Exercise, photography, playing with the manatees!

More SUPs from BOTE Boards :

Traveller Aero

Rackham Aero

The BOTE LowRider Is An Extremely Stable Hybrid iSUP

Paddling on the BOTE LowRider. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

When in the market for a stand up paddle board, everyone has different priorities. If yours is stability, then the BOTE Lowrider Aero Inflatable Hybrid Paddle Board ($799) may be just the board for you.

Measuring 10′6″ L × 36″ W × 6″ D, the LowRider is a wide board that can support up to 300 pounds. It also comes with a seat and paddle attachment that allow you to transform the board into a sit-on-top kayak. I live on Oahu and love to spend my weekends exploring local waterways with friends. Although I am an experienced paddler, a lot of my friends are not, so it’s nice to have a stable board to offer them, especially on windy days. The Lowrider is a board that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their skill level.

First Impressions of the BOTE LowRider

The BOTE LowRider is by no means a small board. The bag it comes in is large and heavy, but luckily it has wheels. Due to its size and volume, the LowRider took some grunt work to get inflated. Once it was inflated, there was no denying that it is a hefty board. And as such, I expected it to be slower to paddle but incredibly stable.

Because it’s a hybrid board, the LowRider comes with a kayak seat and paddle attachment. The kayak seat was quick and easy to inflate and attach but the shape was a little funky and I worried it might be uncomfortable.

The BOTE LowRider in kayak mode. Photo: Jess Jeong//The Inertia

Notable Features

Dimensions: 10′6″ L × 36″ W × 6″ D Capacity: 300 lbs Board Weight: 30 lbs Seat Weight: 5.6 lbs Travel Bag Dimensions: 39.5″ H × 22.5″ W × 12″ D Loaded Bag Weight: 42.6 lbs

With the Lowrider SUP package, BOTE thought of everything. The package comes with the inflatable paddle board , a removable kayak seat, four-piece carbon/fiberglass SUP + kayak hybrid paddle, a removable center fin, hand pump, repair kit, and BOTE Rac receivers for compatible accessories. The 11’6″ version is billed as a tandem SUP, coming with an extra paddle and kayak seat, as well as the heft to support two riders at a time.

As predicted, the LowRider is incredibly stable. At 36 inches wide, it’s one of the widest boards I’ve ever paddled, resulting in a large platform that is easy to balance on. Due to its weight I worried the LowRider may be difficult to paddle, but it cut through the water easily and tracked well. Because it’s so wide it took a bit more work to turn, but it was much easier than I expected.

Something that really stands out about the LowRider  is the paddle. Most paddles included with iSUPs aren’t great, but the paddle that comes with the LowRider is surprisingly solid. The four-piece paddle can be used as a SUP paddle or you can swap out the t-handle for the kayak paddle. Although the paddle was on the heavy side, it feels secure, allowing you to put as much force into each stroke as you want to. The shaft of the paddle is textured, providing good grip even when the paddle gets wet.

The kayak seat on the LowRider is nice and comfortable. Photo: Jess Jeong//The Inertia

Although the LowRider doesn’t come with a ton of extra accessories, it is compatible with many. The BOTE Rac receivers allow you to attach a rack directly to your board. The board also works with BOTE’s Kula Cooler, so you can completely deck it out as a fishing rig. I didn’t have the chance to try these variations, but I think it’s cool that the board works with all of them.

I did, however, test out the kayak seat and kayak paddle that the board came with. Although I was skeptical about the seat, it is easy to attach and is incredibly comfortable. The package doesn’t come with any sort of foot rest, but you don’t need it. The LowRider paddles extremely well in kayak mode and is comfortable to boot. The LowRider will be my new go-to on windy and choppy days.

The entire time I was paddling on the LowRider I was thinking of my dad who, for the life of him, can’t balance on a paddle board. I am excited for the next time he visits me, because I’m confident he will be able to successfully paddle on the LowRider. And if he can’t, then he can always use it as a kayak.

The LowRider bag is heavy and bulky but it does come with wheels. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

The downside of a wide, stable board is the weight and size. At 30 pounds, the LowRider is one of the heaviest boards I have ever paddled. The entire package weight is 42.6 pounds, so it was challenging for me to load in and out of the car. Luckily, the bag does have wheels which is essential with the weight. The pack also has padded backpack straps should you need to carry it.

Another drawback of being a big, wide board is that it takes a lot of work to get it inflated. The included hand pump works well but there is no getting around the effort it takes to inflate the board to the recommended 10-15 PSI (I’d recommend 15 for a seriously stable board). If you plan on paddling the LowRider often, you may consider purchasing an electric pump or cancelling your gym membership because you’re sure to get a workout inflating this beast.

Wide, stable, and fun to paddle, the LowRider is a great pick of all levels of paddlers. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

Final Thoughts

The LowRider is a wide, stable board, making it perfect for beginners, larger paddlers, and folks just looking to cruise. A hybrid iSUP, the LowRider can be transformed into a comfortable kayak – it’s a best of both worlds board. Additionally, the LowRider is compatible with a whole slew of accessories, so you can use it for fishing or anything else your heart can dream up.

Editor’s Note: If you want to check out another awesome board from BOTE, read our review the BOTE Breeze Aero . Of, if you want to see all of our inflatable SUPs, head on over to our The Best Inflatable Paddle Boards of 2024. Are you a SUP surfer? The are The Best Stand Up Paddle Boards for Surfing . For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here .

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