Tahe Beach SUP-Yak Review

Designed for functionality and versatility rather than pure performance, the Tahe Beach SUP-Yak is great for a full day of paddling adventures. The package includes a kayak seat, footrest, and a paddle that converts for either SUP or kayak. Conversion from SUP board to kayak is achieved using the seat clips and daisy chain loops. Adjusting the seat into a supportive position and arranging the footrest into the best location took a few tries, though it's possible to do this conversion on the fly once you get the hang of it. There is also plenty of cargo space for storing your seat, footrest, and kayak paddle when cruising in SUP mode.

Performance Comparison

Stability

At 10 feet, 6 inches long, 34 inches wide, and 6 inches thick with side-stiffening stringers, stability is the name of the game for this board. It is easy to balance on the Beach SUP-Yak whether standing or sitting. Boarding and dismounting were simple in both flatwater and chop. The limiting factor for stability is the three 9-inch fixed tail fins. While they provide steady tracking when directing the board forward and on calm water, a longer center fin would increase overall stability in boat chop and waves.

Taller and heavier paddlers will feel comfortable managing this board on their own or with additional cargo, kids, or pets. More weight is a benefit when paddling the Beach. It performed better when we included a pet or another smaller rider, showing us it's built for touring with gear.

Glide Performance

This rigid board sits high above the water and has a pointed nose that allows it to glide relatively easily when conditions are mellow. The Twin Stringer Technology makes the board more rigid, providing stability in calm water, but we also tested it in both boat chop and wind. The Beach has a wider body at 34 inches, and the stern tapers to a point. We found that the nose tended to lift above rather than cut through chop, and the board bounced around more than others when traveling over waves. Tahe rates this as a flatwater and touring board, and we agree.

Maneuverability

We tested maneuverability around obstacles, including buoys and other boards, as well as attempting direction changes in waves. We were surprised at how quickly we could change direction with the Beach SUP-Yak, especially considering its heft. The pointed nose is the primary source of this ease of transition. That said, compared to smaller boards and those designed strictly as SUPs, its turning response isn't quite as fast. The three attached 9-inch fins are supportive when tracking forward, though their limitations can be felt when turning. But when on the Beach SUP-Yak, you can rest assured that you'll feel confident turning, and, due to the wide body and board height, the fear of tipping over is minimal.

Ease of Use

The size of the Beach SUP-Yak and its many accessories (pump, two paddles, seat, and footrest) require a bigger carry bag and add to the weight of the overall package. The bag is significant in size and, once packed up, weighs around 30 pounds. Our smaller paddlers found carrying the pack uncomfortable due to the lack of cushioning or a chest or hip belt.

Our first-timer struggled to get this board inflated. It took them around 12 minutes, while experienced paddlers could inflate within six to eight minutes. The single-chamber dual-action pump is helpful when the pressure is higher. Once inflated, the board weighs 25 pounds, which is among the heavier boards we have tested. The pump also comes with the option to attach the hose to the opposite side for deflation. This extra perk makes it easier to roll the board up and fit it back into the bag. After the initial air release, it takes around 4 minutes to empty the board completely.

Construction Quality

This is a well-made board. It features reinforcement rail stringers for added rigidity and has thick, military-grade drop-stitch construction throughout. Durable and buoyant, with proper care, this will be a vessel you'll be able to enjoy for many years to come.

Should You Buy the Tahe Beach SUP-Yak?

The Beach SUP-Yak certainly offers many options. For those seeking a 2-in-1 board that is durable and opens the door for adventure, it is a good choice. The price point is very reasonable considering the many included accessories. If you plan to tour around with your gear, child, or pup on a relatively calm day, the Beach will keep you above the water and comfortable.

While unpacking boards this season, we took note of the materials and packaging included with each board. Although it's not formally included in our scoring, we noted that every item in the SUP-Yak box was wrapped in plastic. Our initial unwrapping resulted in a significant amount of plastic waste. When considering value, the effect that your board has on the environment is certainly something to consider.

What Other Inflatable SUPs Should You Consider?

If your type of paddling is a day of touring with gear or a furry friend, the Tahe Beach SUP-Yak includes the tools you need to enjoy casually gliding while standing or sitting. With plenty of cargo space and attachment options, this rigid and durable board is designed for versatility and function. If you aren't interested in all the extra add-ons and just want better performance on the water, the Bote Breeze Aero is our all-around favorite and still comes in at an excellent price. If you want to get floating on a true shoestring budget, the Funwater 11 is also worth a look.