Tahe Beach SUP-Yak Review

Designed for functionality and versatility rather than pure performance, paddlers will choose the Tahe Beach SUP-Yak when gearing up for a full day of paddling adventures. The package includes a kayak seat and footrest as well as an alternative kayak paddle to replace the SUP handle. Conversion from SUP board to kayak is achieved using the seat clips and daisy chain loops, though it takes some time to get the clips to grab the daisy chain. Adjusting the seat into a supportive position and arranging the footrest into the best location also took a few tries, though it's possible to do this conversion on the fly. 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 tall with side-stiffening stringers, stability is the name of the game for this Tahe 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 this board. It performed better when we included a pet or another smaller rider. The weight capacity is 300 pounds, indicating that the Beach SUP-Yak is 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 on calm water. We tested the 10-foot, 6-inch board in boat chop and wind. It has a wider body at 34 inches and the stern tapers to a point. The Twin Stringer Technology makes the board more rigid which provides stability in calm water. We found that the nose tended to lift above rather than cut through the 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 were surprised at how quickly we were able to change direction with the Beach SUP-Yak. We tested maneuverability around obstacles including buoys and other boards as well as attempting direction changes in waves. The pointed nose is the primary source of this ease of transition. Compared to smaller boards and those designed strictly as SUP boards, 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. 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 Transport

The many accessories and size of the Beach SUP-Yak require a bigger carry bag and add to the weight of the package. The front of the bag opens fully, allowing for everything to fit inside fairly easily. As with most boards, there is a strap to secure the board once folded and to hold it in place. Along with the pump and paddle, including the additional kayak paddle, the seat and footrest can be secured safely within. The bag is significant in size and, once packed up, weighs around 30 pounds. Our smaller paddlers found carrying the pack to be uncomfortable due to the lack of cushioning or a chest or hip belt.

Ease of Inflation

Our first-timer struggled to get this board inflated. It took them around 12 minutes while experienced paddlers were able to inflate within six to eight minutes. The single chamber dual-action pump was helpful when the pressure was higher. Once inflated, the board weighs 25 pounds, which is among the heaviest boards we have tested. The Bote brand 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 as well as fit it back into the bag. After the initial release of air, it took around 4 minutes to empty the board completely.

Value

The Tahe Beach SUP-Yak certainly offers many options. For those seeking a 2-in-1 board that is durable and opens the door for an adventure, it is a good choice. The price point is reasonable considering the many accessories included. It receives average scores in most metrics with a slightly lower rating due to weight and ease of transport. If your plan is to tour around with your gear, child, or pup on a relatively calm day, the Beach SUP-Yak will keep you above the water and comfortable while doing so.

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.

Conclusion

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.