ROC Inflatable SUP Review

The ROC Inflatable SUP is a fun, affordable, lightweight board that provides decent performance without spending an arm and a leg. One of the shortest and lightest models in our lineup, it definitely isn't the fastest, but it otherwise balances reasonable stability and maneuverability, and its smaller volume makes it easier to inflate and haul around. Its reasonable price tag also makes it a good value and a fine choice for beginner paddlers looking to test the waters.

Performance Comparison

Stability

Weighing in at a mere 17.8 pounds, the ROC is one of the lightest boards that we tested. While this can reduce its overall stability, its lightweight design is offset by its short 10-foot length and generous 32-inch width. Along with its minimal sidecut and generously rounded nose, the ROC is plenty stable in most paddling conditions and ideal for smaller and lighter passengers. The classic three-fin design with a large removable center fin and two smaller fixed side fins help balance glide and stability. In windy or choppy conditions, its lack of size and mass can cause it to get tossed around more than other larger or heavier boards.

Glide Performance

The same 10-foot length, 32-inch width, and rounded nose that make the ROC stable for most paddlers will also reduce its top-end speed. Its rockered nose planes across calm, flat water nicely, but can get pushed around when things turn rougher. Other boards that are stiffer or have more sharply pointed noses tend to track in a straight line better and glide more efficiently. While you won't be entering any races or paddling long distances on the ROC, it's lightweight, stable design is ideal for families and beginner paddlers.

Maneuverability

This is one performance area where the ROC's lightweight design and rounded, rockered nose works to its advantage. This combination makes the board light and flexible enough for all levels of paddlers to control it, and the nose shape and profile make tight turns and maneuvers a breeze for more experienced paddlers. Some of our testers took the ROC out into some moderate knee-high waves and enjoyed its playfulness and maneuverability.

Ease of Transport

With its ultra-lightweight construction and smaller overall size and volume, the ROC is one of the easiest boards in our lineup to transport. Although it only has a single center grab handle, its short 10-foot length makes it easy enough for one person to carry the inflated board. When it comes time to head home, the included carrying bag comfortably fits the board, paddle, pump, fin, and leash. The bag has comfortable shoulder pads and a waist belt and is similar to a handful of other bags that are part of this lineup. With its scant 17.8-pound weight, lugging this board around is easier than most others.

Ease of Inflation

Similarly, the ROC is one of the easier boards to inflate thanks to its smaller overall size and volume. The included pump is similar to several other pumps in our lineup and makes fairly easy work of inflating the 10-foot board.

One other noteworthy design feature that helps you get on the water faster is that the removable center fin connects to the fin box with a sliding tab system that clicks easily into place. We prefer this design over other traditional fin attachment designs with a hand-tightening screw that can more easily get lost or misplaced.

Value

With one of the lower list prices in our lineup, this lightweight board provides great value for beginner paddlers or families looking to try out the sport of paddle boarding without breaking the bank. There are other models with better all-around performance, but most come with a much higher price tag. The package includes all of the equipment you need to get out on the water and includes a waterproof dry-bag as an added bonus.

Conclusion

The ROC Inflatable SUP is a lightweight, fun, and playful board that is ideal for value-oriented customers who may be looking to get out on the water for the first time. Its smaller design is easy to control for beginner paddlers and is versatile and playful for more experienced watermen and women. Families looking for a fun and affordable SUP will be pleased with this option.