The Hippocamp 11’6’ Review
Best inflatable paddleboard
“It’s like walking on water, but better!”
South Bay Beach Co. is a family-owned and operated company that aims to provide the best-in-class surfboards and paddleboards to its customers. Today, they’re one of the largest and most sought-after beach and board company’s in the world and there’s a reason for that- their products are pretty badass.
Offered across several major global online marketplaces, you can get your hands on a South Bay Beach Co. board with just a few clicks of the button While their product line is extensive, one of their most popular boards happens to be the Hippocamp 11’6” which in my opinion is the best Inflatable Paddleboard on the market.
If you’re looking for an all-around paddleboard that’s both inflatable, design-centric, affordable, stable, and portable, and one that’s suitable for both a beginner and experienced paddler, this is the board for you.
Related: Best Travel Gear
Coming from someone who has experience with the South Bay Beach Co.’s Hippocamp 11’6”, I can attest that it’s undeniably the best inflatable paddleboard on the market today.
So, are you looking for a reason to get out on the water?! Then continue reading!
Here’s my review of South Bay Beach Co.’s Hippocamp 11’6” inflatable paddleboard…
The Hippocamp 11’6” Inflatable Paddleboard
Before we get into my overall rating and review of the board, let’s dive into the specs and discuss what this board is all about and what makes it the best inflatable paddleboard out there.
Known as a mid-range board for those with at least some level of knowledge, the hippocamp 11’6” is of the highest quality, providing paddlers with a sense of stability and control, while also emphasizing maximum comfort; after all, paddling isn’t all about the workout! Sometimes you just want to enjoy the ride!
When you order the Hippocamp 11’6” from South Bay Beach Co., you’ll also be provided with an entire host of premium accessories that make it suitable for all levels, beginners included.
Want to convert the board into a kayak? Thanks to its accompanying accessories, you can!
The best inflatable paddleboard comes with the following accessories:
- Four-piece adjustable carbon fibre paddle
- Stretchable SUP safety leash
- Robust patch repair kit
- Kayak conversion kit (kayak seat, d-rings, etc.)
- High-capacity pump tool (with optional premium automatic pump)
- Portable carrying bag with wheels
- Fishing rod holders
- Fishing cooler box
If that isn’t enough to sell you on the best inflatable paddleboard on the market today, here are the specs and features that you can come to expect from the Hippocamp 11’6” by South Bay Beach Co.
Specs and Features of the Hippocamp 11’6” aka the Best Inflatable Paddleboard:
- 11’6” in length, 34” in width, 6” in thickness
- 450 lb Capacity Limit
- 21 lb Weight
- 340-litre volume
- Military-grade material and technology
- $999.99 -$1,2950 USD
While the price might seem inflated (no pun intended!) to some, it needs to be understood the value you’re actually getting. In other words, you’re not just getting the best inflatable paddleboard with your purchase.
Instead, you’re getting the best inflatable paddleboard, a top-of-the-line kayak, a makeshift fishing boat, and an all-encompassing package of accessories. If that’s not enough to convince you of the value, you’re in the wrong place…
My Review
Withstanding the price-to-quality ratio (in other words, the overall value), my overall rating is derived using several factors. These factors include stability, maneuverability, portability, functionality, design, price. and an overall rating.
Stability
Offering a substantial level of portability in calm waters, designed, in part, with fishing in mind, the Hippocamp 11’6” inflatable paddle board was constructed using carbon fibre and other rigid materials.
Where it fails is in more turbulent conditions, in part, because of its weight or lack thereof…
Rating: 4.7/5
Maneuverability
Because it’s a multi-functional board, convertible to both a makeshift fishing boat and kayak, the Hippocamp 11’6” inflatable paddle board was designed with maneuverability in mind.
Like most paddleboards, more advanced maneuvers are going to be difficult in any condition…
Rating: 4.8/5
Portability
Because it’s inflatable, and thanks largely to the carrying bag with wheels accessory, the Hippocamp 11’6” paddleboard is extremely portable which is a huge factor in why I think it’s the best inflatable paddleboard out there. It doesn’t matter how well its designed/built if it’s a pain in the ass to take with you.
Developed for convenience, there’s no concern when it comes to portability.
Rating: 4.9/5
Functionality
As we’ve discussed, South Bay Beach Co. did an incredible job and making this board multi-functional. Keeping in mind the interest of the consumer, the Hippocamp 11’6” inflatable paddleboard converts seamlessly to a kayak or fishing boat – which is pretty fucking badass.
Rating: 5/5
Design
Offered in two designs, one being carbon fibre and the other being grey wood, the design of the board itself truly encompasses the culture of paddleboarding and surfing.
While some may complain of the lack of variants, I say that they’ve hit the nail on the head when it comes to design.
Rating: 4.75/5
Price
Last but not least, the factor that’s on everyone’s mind, the price…Coming in between $999-$1295, the Hippocamp 11’6” might be perceived as expensive.
In comparison to its competitors, however, and taking into consideration all that you get when your purchase it, the price-to-value ratio is unmatched.
Of course, it’s expensive all things considered. However, if it’s the best inflatable paddleboard you want, it’s the price you need to be prepared to pay…
Rating: 4.7/5
Overall Rating- 4.8/5
After using this paddleboard, I’m confident in suggesting to you that South Bay Beach Co’s hippocamp is the best inflatable paddleboard out there. As someone who’s both an adventure seeker and an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve had my experience with several types of paddleboards and they just don’t compare.
Taking into consideration all of the review variables discussed above, not to mention its affordable price (arguably the most important variable of them all for most), this is far and away my favorite.
So, if you’ve been in search of the best inflatable paddleboard to take on your next adventure, I highly recommend the Hippocamp 11’6” by South Bay Beach Co.
It’s a purchase you won’t soon forget!
“Worry less, paddle more… and Stay Gold”
