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ISLE Explorer 12 Review | 2019
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SUP Overview
The longest all-around iSUP in ISLE’s inflatable paddle board range, the 2019 ISLE Explorer 12’ offers a nice blend of performance and overall versatility. Faster and better suited to long-distance paddles than your typical all-around board and more versatile than a SUP designed specifically with touring in mind, the Explorer 12’ is a nice compromise if you can only have one board.
Of course, the Explorer 12’ is also a good choice for larger paddlers who need a bigger board that packs additional volume. Measuring 12’ x 32” x 6” and weighing in at 24 pounds, the Explorer 12’ has a total volume of 272 liters and it’s capable of supporting up to 300 pounds of weight.
Like the smaller ISLE Explorer 11’, this board features a pointed nose profile that’s designed to maximize paddling efficiency and cut through wind and chop. This is a great shape that performs well in a variety of conditions and it’s also used on the popular Atoll 11’ and GILI Adventure boards that we reviewed this season.
In terms of construction, ISLE used their Airtech Fusion Lite on the Explorer 12’ — the same technology seen on this year’s Pioneer, Scout, Sportsman, and Discovery models. It’s a lightweight iSUP construction method that reduces waste, materials, and eliminates hand-gluing errors that sometimes occur during traditional inflatable paddle board production.
Covering the top deck of the board is an EVA foam deck pad which features a comfortable brushed finish. For added traction near the middle of the board, ISLE incorporated grooves which increase grip without being uncomfortable to stand on.
Located at the middle of the Explorer 12’ is ISLE’s new rounded carry handle which features a soft neoprene cover for improved comfort. The board also comes with dual bungee storage areas (front and back) which provide plenty of available onboard storage space and convenient grab handles at both the tail and nose.
Specs
| Length | 12' | |
| Width | 32" | |
| Thickness | 6" | |
| Weight | 24 pounds | |
| Volume | 272 L | |
| Max Capacity | 300 pounds |
5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)
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The Explorer 12’s inflation valve is positioned at the tail of the board along with a stainless steel D-ring for securing the included ankle leash.
On the bottom of the board are three fins. ISLE used two fixed side fins and a large removable center fin. The center fin uses a universal US fin box which provides added versatility.
ISLE always provides a full bundle of accessories in their inflatable SUP packages and included with the new Explorer 12’ are the following:
- 3-piece carbon shaft paddle
- Dual-action high-pressure iSUP pump
- Repair kit
- Travel backpack
- Coiled leash
The Explorer 12’ is available in two colors this season, Grey and Sand. It also comes with ISLE’s 60-day “Ride it” money-back guarantee (a 20% restocking fee applies) and a 1-year warranty which covers manufacturing defects.
BEST FOR
Flat water, all-around, touring, SUP fitness, fishing
WHAT’S INCLUDED
3-piece carbon shaft paddle, backpack, dual-action pump, coiled leash, repair kit
WARRANTY
1-year, 60-day money-back
Reader Reviews
The Explorer is a fun board...
August 6, 2019
The Explorer is a fun board that is stable and glides well. I would say that it is an excellent choice for beginners but it is also enjoyable for advanced paddlers. Having two bungee cargo areas means there’s always room for more gear and the traction pad is very comfortable to stand on.
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Have you paddled ISLE’s Explorer 12′ SUP before? If so, let us know what you think of the board!
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Where to Buy it
The new ISLE Explorer 12′ inflatable SUP is currently in stock with free shipping at the official ISLE online store. The company is also running a limited time special offer which is good for $100 off any two ISLE SUPs. At the moment, ISLE SUP boards are only available in the U.S., so if you’re unable to order due to being in a different country, we’d recommend checking out iROCKER’s popular inflatable SUP line which is available worldwide through the following links: U.S., Canada, UK/EU, Australia, and Germany