Red Paddle Co 9'6" Compact in the surf

[srowndedbyh2o]

Anyone use one of the newer Red Paddle Co 9'6" Compact models in the surf? I know that, in general, inflatable SUPs are not ideal for the surf, but this new 9'6" compact model looks ideal for use when doing a lot of traveling by plane, bus, train, and taxi. It packs down so small, it looks ideal for travel, but my concern when using in the surf is the fin placement so far back on the board. Great for tracking in flat water I suppose, but seems like it could hinder turning in the surf (?). Thoughts?

[Green Water Sports]

Have not had it in the surf yet. It paddles like my 10'6" Ride in general but I think it'd perform better in the surf thanks to the shorter length and larger fins. However, the split deck pad would worry me when moving around on the board and stepping back, might just be something to get used to as I usually ride my Starboard carbon Pro in the waves.

[srowndedbyh2o]

Thanks for the input. Hadn't thought about the split deck pad. I know that when surfing SUP or prone, getting the leash rope underfoot can sometimes completely thow me off. Haven't seen the board in person, so not sure how much transition there is between the pad and the non-padded "stringer" section. Not as much as a leash rope, but still would take some getting used to. Anyway, just want the board for flat water, but able to get in some "glide" on small waves when the opportunity arises.

[Green Water Sports]

For the occasional wave it should be fine. Also, if you're wearing booties then the pad gap won't be much of a grip issue, you'll just feel a level change between the pad and the deck..

[Green Water Sports]

Our review of the 9'6" Compact: https://greenwatersports.com/12850/review-of-the-2019-red-paddle-co-9-6-compact-inflatable-paddle-board?ref=17