O2 Lochsa Inflatable SUP for Whitewater

Some people are asking my thoughts on both of my SUPs. Well, the Badfish Rivershred is more of a beast, and has hardly any bounce. And the rocker is so great, and will rise up and over waves like a champ. Because I have been paddling my Rivershred for over a year and a half, it has gotten me through some interesting features.

Now, after having the Glide 02 Lochsa out 4 times, here is my take on this. There is more flex(bounce) on the deck, but, this can be a good thing, being a little more forgiving. The rocker is moderate. But still rises over the face of the wave. The stern is a little wider, giving more stability when stomping the tail deep in the water. I think putting handle grips just past the carry handle like I did on the Badfish, really helps when scrambling back on the deck after swimming. I think both are so close and I am so glad I bought the Lochsa, price wise, you can’t go wrong. I am glad to have both SUPs, but lately, I have run this chute on the Comal River, and I cleaned it 5 times out of 15 attempts that day, and normally on the Rivershred, I am lucky if I run it clean twice in one day. And the paddle that comes with it might look flimsy, don’t let that fool you. It is solid, stout, and really digs in when you need to make a quick change of direction. I haven’t needed to use the rucksack/carry bag, but that is well designed too. Price wise, Glide wins, and should carry you far. To go further, then the Rivershred will finish the job, but for almost twice the price. It depends on how rough you want to play, or pay. Either one works for me, and I always encourage others to jump on board and see what they are paddling. Until then, paddle on…..

After the first play run….we had to go to a different section on the Guadalupe River. I mistook the initial reaction to the paddle. But, don’t let the look’s fool you. It is a solid paddle shaft, and the blade might look flimsy, but when you dig in for that last stroke to get on that wave, it has a fantastic bite, and gives power without any flutter. I’m finding out I have to move around on the deck more to adjust my stance and trim, the the wave allows me much more stability and balance. I’d say Round #2 was a hit as well. More to come….. still FIVE STARS !

I was curious on the stability, and how it works in some moving water. I am very pleased on the performance, and highly recommend for others to jump on board. Nice !

What an awesome board! Excellent construction. I love that the pad runs the length of the board. Having multiple handles is really nice. It's wide and has plenty of glide on flat water. It handles chop with ease. No whitewater runs yet, but I'm sure it would perform well. I would definitely recommend this board.

I bought two of these boards and have been really enjoying them on the river. Mostly class 2, but can't wait to take them out on a class 3.