Gili AIR SUP Review

Gili AIR SUP: Best Entry-Level Paddleboard Option!

GILI has been in the industry for many years and is considered one of the best paddleboard brands. Jay Regan, GILI’s owner, entrepreneur, and world traveler has one goal; To build a good value and first-rate customer service company.

GILI has become innovative in terms of the paddleboards that they release to this day, and the company listens well to the feedback of their customers, which makes GILI successful and on track. We are anticipating new boards that will be released sooner or later.

Let’s dive into my experience with the Gili Air SUP now. Excited? I sure was thrilled!

Most suitable for:

GILI Sports has released their new paddleboard, the GILI AIR SUP 10’6″ and 11’6″. This is a budget-friendly SUP and is best for those who want to start learning paddling as well as advanced paddlers. In 2022, they offer two sizes for the Gili AIR SUP, the 10’6 and the 11’6 which they added extra capacity.

Another great innovation from Gili AIR SUP is the new design of their paddleboard, which now comes in five different color options.

If you want another passenger with you while paddling, you can choose the 11’6 paddleboard.

The New Gili AIR SUP is also 32 inches wide to improve stability, and it has a hybrid shape to improve performance and maneuverability. Another noteworthy feature is that they have upgraded their SUP bag, adding pockets, comfortable carry straps, and more space to store additional accessories. It also has a fin pocket to keep your fins safe.

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

$330.00

$545.00

in stock

Click for best price

Gilisports.com

What Makes Gili Meno Touring SUP Stand Out?

To learn more, watch my entire review video here:

The Gili AIR SUP stands out in a variety of ways! This improved paddleboard has more color options, which is fantastic! This is also a beginner-friendly SUP due to the wide and thick paddleboard, which makes the SUP stable, and it is made of tough military-grade PVC, which makes it more durable, particularly when out on the water.

The Gili AIR Sup is also designed for easy travel because it is lightweight and easy to transport.

What I also liked about this new upgrade is that the pump is dismountable, which is uncommon among SUP companies. This is a great feature for packing when traveling.

The Gili AIR SUP can also be used in any water condition, so you can take this paddleboard with you wherever you go! This is a fantastic SUP because it is a low-cost paddleboard from Gili without sacrificing quality or performance.

Another thing I liked about Gili is that a portion of every purchase goes to various charities to help save oceans, reefs, and endangered creatures.

It is also relatively smooth and efficient on the water, making it ideal for long expeditions.

This is a larger SUP board when compared to other Gili models, but it has great features such as the ability to paddle with your children and pets, as well as load more gear at the same time due to its weight capacity.

I’ll go over the GILI Air SUP board in more detail below.

The Gili Air SUP is an excellent paddle board for those looking for a high-quality, long-lasting board that can take on any challenge.

It is built with a thick, durable PVC material that can take on any challenge. The Gili Air SUP can endure it all, whether you’re paddling in calm waters or hitting the waves.

The Gili Air SUP provides exceptional tracking and glide, making it an excellent choice for flat water and open water paddling. So, if you’re in the market for a new paddle board, be sure to check out the Gili Air SUP. You won’t be disappointed!

Specifications

Length

10'6 / 11'6

Width

32"

Thickness

6"

Weight

19 lbs / 8.6 kg

Max Rider Weight

280 lbs / 127 kg

Max Air Pressure

12-15 PSI

Board type

Inflatable

Skill

Beginner/Advanced

Primary use
All-Around / Yoga / Relaxing

Speed on the water
The Gili AIR SUP may not be the fastest board, but it glides smoothly and is easy to maneuver due to its shape and design, making it ideal for cruising out on the water.

Transport
The Gili AIR SUP is designed for portability, as both the 10’6″ and 11’6″ paddleboards are lightweight. You won’t have any trouble transporting it. 

Stability
This SUP is 32 inches wide and 6 inches thick, which makes it stable on the water. When inflated, you will get a rigid paddleboard that also provides more stability and improves performance and maneuverability, making it ideal for beginners.

Professional’s Experience

The Gili AIR SUP has wowed me with its design, performance, and upgraded features. Aside from that, I like how the Gili AIR SUP is a low-cost paddleboard with high quality and performance. It is a versatile paddleboard that can do anything and is portable, making it super easy for me to travel.

In my experience, while testing it out on the water, it is very stable, smooth, and easy to maneuver.

You don’t have to exert much effort when paddling, and it was both easy and comfortable to ride. You can bring another passenger or your pet to the Gili AIR SUP because there is still room.

The Gili Air SUP was built with the strongest and lightest SUP material available, Fusion Dual Layer Technology. This paddle board is made of high-quality materials and will provide you with a long-lasting and stiff paddleboard.

The New Gili AIR SUP has a dual bungee system that can be seen in the nose and tail of the paddleboard to help you paddle by bringing more gears onto the water.

It has three action mounts where you can attach your sports camera, fishing rod holder, and any other accessories you believe will enhance your paddling experience.

There is also a new side-mounted paddle holder to keep your paddle safe while out on the water without having to worry about it falling.

Gili AIR SUP’s new traction pad has added grooves on the traction pad and diamond traction in the back area to ensure the paddler’s grip and reduce the risk of falling.

The upgraded iSUP bag has pocket fins to ensure that you can secure them without fear of losing them. There are also additional pockets for storing other accessories.

There are a total of 18 durable stainless steel D-rings on the Gili AIR SUP. You can use tie-down points if necessary. There are also D-rings on the side of the board where you can secure a kayak seat.

When carrying the board, the padded carrying handle in the center feels comfortable and sturdy. There is also a grab handle at the nose and tail of the paddleboard that is attached to the front bungees. You won’t have to worry about how to transport your paddleboard because there are more options.

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

$330.00

$545.00

in stock

Click for best price

Gilisports.com

Gili Air Blue Version

I also received the Gili Air in Blue. Here you can see that version. To be honest, I like the Camo more because it’s more unique. Blue bords prevail on the market anyway.

Important features

Setup

• With its improved flawless shape and design, the Gili AIR SUP is ideal for any water condition. Suitable for all skill levels
• It comes with everything you need to get started paddling.
• The Gili AIR SUP is lightweight and portable, making it simple to transport.
• It has a 9″ removable fin and snap-in fins that are simple to install and long-lasting.
• There are numerous carry/grab handles as well as 18 stainless steel D-rings for attaching other accessories.
• The Gili AIR SUP comes with a two-year warranty and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Fins
The Gili AIR SUP has removable snap-in fins, including a 9″ race fin and two 4.5″ side fins. The fins can be configured based on where you intend to paddle and how shallow the water is.

Material
When inflated, the Gili AIR SUP feels like a hardboard under your feet and on the water. This SUP is made of tough military-grade PVC so that you can use it anywhere and in any water condition without fear of scratches, dents, or drops. This multi-purpose paddleboard can handle it all. 

Inflate / deflate
It has a dual-action high-pressure hand pump that allows for faster inflation with a recommended air pressure of 12-15 PSI. I was able to inflate it in less than 15 minutes. To speed up the process, I recommend my absolute best OM Shark II electric pump. Deflating is just as easy – simply open the valve and let the air out. The whole process takes less than five minutes, making it a breeze to get on and off the water. Overall, this product is extremely user-friendly and requires minimal effort.

Warranty
The Gili AIR SUP comes with a two-year warranty and a 60-day money-back guarantee. I’d also like to mention that they have excellent customer service and that I was able to contact them whenever I had a problem with their paddleboard.

Design
This paddle board is designed to be portable, versatile, and beginner–friendly, but it can also be used by paddlers of all skill levels. The upgraded version provides more stability, is easier to maneuver, and is an excellent all-around paddleboard in all water conditions! The Gili AIR SUP is a strong and long-lasting paddleboard.

In The Package: What’s in the box

When I received the Gili AIR SUP and began unboxing it, I simply needed to mention this in the Accessories section for my review. When I first saw the accessories, I noticed that one of them had minor flaws.

The paddle that I received is barely put together, the pump makes crazy sounds and I’ve noticed that it slips a bit of air, the backpack appeared to be in good condition on the outside but when I looked inside, it was ripped and some glue was visible on the backside of the board.

I just hope that the factory double-checked all of the items to ensure that they were of high quality. To be honest, it was quite frustrating when I saw it. Especially because I’ve unboxed 4 Gili SUPs by now, and almost all had a bit of a flaw in the accessories part.

Paddle

In terms of paddles, the Gili AIR SUP gives you the option of using an aluminum paddle or a more expensive fiberglass paddle. I just started with their aluminum paddle, which I believe is durable. I just hope they sent a paddle that is simple to put on because the one I received was difficult to assemble.

Leash

The GILI Air SUP has a coiled leash that attaches to your ankle and the paddleboard’s back D-ring. This will keep your paddleboard secure and prevent it from floating away. The leash was of good quality, and I felt at ease wearing it. You will also receive a leash in the same color as your paddle board which I think is Cool! 

Pump

The pump is superior to the previous version because it is dismountable, making travel easier, and it is simple to pack away and attach to the SUP backpack. I don’t see this feature on many SUP companies, and I believe GILI made a good construction on their hand pump.

Backpack

I got a backpack that was ripped on the inside! I hope GILI will be more cautious the next time and ensure that all accessories are in good condition. The Gili AIR SUP backpack, on the other hand, is large enough to accommodate all of the accessories. It has padded shoulder straps, waist straps, and a chest strap for added support. From the outside, you can see several pockets for your accessories and personal belongings. The bag also has mesh padding at the back to make it more comfortable to carry.

Fin Kit

The Gili Air SUP board comes with a fin kit, which means it comes with three different fins. This allows your paddling experience to change depending on the water conditions you’re in. You can easily swap out the fins to suit your preferences for speed and stability.

Repair Kit

Yes, Gili Air SUP also has a repair kit! All inflatable paddle boards come with a repair kit that includes a couple of PVC patches, waterproof glue, and a valve tightener.

Additional Accessories

Life Jacket

This is a must-have accessory, especially if there will be children or pets on the paddleboard. You can’t just put on any old life jacket and call it good when paddle boarding. You need a properly-fitting personal flotation device (PFD) that is comfortable and won’t get in your way while paddling. While there are many different types and styles of PFDs on the market, here are a few things to consider when choosing the right one for you.

Consider the type of paddle boarding you’ll be doing most often. If you are doing primarily flatwater paddling, you’ll want a different PFD than if you’re planning on tackling some whitewater rapids. Comfort is vital. You don’t want to constantly adjust and readjust your PFD while you’re out on the water, so make sure it fits well and doesn’t chafe or rub in any uncomfortable ways.

Because the Meno Touring SUP has so many activities to offer, it’s best to invest in a high-quality and comfortable life jacket to keep the passengers safe. Keep in mind that you must ensure everyone’s safety. With more options to choose from, an infant life jacket and a dog life jacket are available.

Waterproof Fanny Pack

If you’re planning on hitting the waves for a day of paddle boarding, you’ll want to make sure you have all the gear you need to stay safe and comfortable. One essential item is a waterproof fanny pack. This will help keep your valuables safe and dry as you enjoy your time on the water. There are a few things to consider when choosing a waterproof fanny pack. First, think about what size you need. A smaller bag will be fine if you’re only bringing a few small items with you. But if you’re carrying things like sunscreen, snacks, and extra clothes, you’ll need something more significant.

Electric Pump

The electric pump is an excellent addition to any paddle boarder’s arsenal. It is easy to get your board inflated and ready to hit the water. No more struggling with manual pumps or worrying about whether or not you’ve got enough air in your board. The electric pump does all the work for you.

Kayak Conversion Kit/Seat Cushion

Because the Gili Meno Touring SUP is also a great fishing paddleboard, you might want to consider adding a kayak seat to make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable, especially if you have a passenger.

Water Proof Speakers

A waterproof speaker will enhance your paddling experience on the water. While you’re doing your activity, listen to your favorite song! When paddling, good music will lighten the mood; you can even dance while on the water on this paddleboard because it is guaranteed to be stable! Invest in a high-quality, waterproof sticker that you will be able to use for a long time.

Hard/Soft Coolers

The Gili paddleboard has two storage areas on the front and back, allowing you to add either a hard or soft cooler. Bring your favorite drink out on the water with you! It’s so much easier to stay hydrated when you have a SUP Cooler with you! This is also recommended for paddlers who will be out on the water for several hours!

Paddle board lock

While paddle boarding is a relatively new sport, its popularity has exploded in recent years. With that increase in popularity, there has also been an increase in people looking for ways to protect their investments. A Paddleboard lock is one of the best ways to do that. There are a few different types of paddleboard locks on the market, but they all serve the same purpose – to keep your board safe from theft. The most important thing to look for in a lock is something that will be difficult for thieves to cut through or break.

Optional accessories (my must-haves – not included)

Here are two of my favorite accessories for this year. One for safety and one because I like to use my time wisely (like take pictures while my board inflates itself) 😋

Outdoormaster Shark 2
My favorite Electric SUP pump among all. Buy it here and save 35% with code TOM35 today.

Read Review

Restube classic
Because extra safety measures never hurt anyone! Buy it here and save 10% with code SUPWORLD10 today.

Read review

Difference between an Inflatable board and a Hard board

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

$330.00

$545.00

in stock

Click for best price

Gilisports.com

Other reviews of the Gili Meno Touring Paddle Board Online

isupworld.com: “This all-around SUP is ideal for cruising with family, friends, or your best SUP pup on lakes, calm rivers, or ocean bays. The Air is stable and easy to paddle. It’s an ideal starter board as there isn’t much of a learning curve. Most people will feel quite comfortable in the Air very quickly. For that reason, it is also ideal for sharing with family and friends.”

inflatableboarder.com: “SUP industry newcomer GILI Sports has done a great job of packing value into their fun new 10’6″ AIR package, making this a fantastic budget-priced board that’s ideal for first-time paddlers. Once again, we like the fact that everything you need to start paddling is right there in the box, and the all-around design is well-suited to a variety of paddling activities and conditions. If you’re a beginner or are simply looking for an inexpensive inflatable SUP that won’t break the bank, the new GILI 10’6″ AIR is a great option.”

divein.com: “We recommend the Gili Air for beginners looking for an all-rounder board with great stability and versatility. The Gili Air is also extremely travel-friendly and features stunning designs, depending on your choice of color. Paddling on knees or with the additional kayak set for paddle boarding increases the versatility of this iSUP for beginners and intermediates alike.”

standuppaddleboardsreview.com: “The Gili Air stand-up paddle board is one of my favorite budget inflatable paddle boards. Portability, durability, and remarkable responsiveness–are the words that best describe it. It’s the cheapest Gili paddle board and one of the best entry-level SUPs out there. “

Frequently Asked Questions about the Gili Meno Touring SUP

Swipe from right to left to view the rest of the table

Product image
Product	11′ & 12′ Gili Adventure SUP	Gili AIR SUP Review	Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review
Build	Inflatable	Inflatable	Inflatable
Skill	Beginner and Intermediate	Beginner/Advanced	Beginner
Price		$330.00	Price unknown
Score	8.2	7.8	10
All-round
Touring
Surfing
Yoga

Conclusion – Should I buy Gili Meno Touring SUP?

My final verdict on the Gili AIR SUP paddle board is that it is a beautiful board with a variety of color options! The colors are also not too bright, which would be distracting if you were paddling in the water. There are two sizes available: 10’6″ and 11’6″. If you prefer a heavier paddleboard, choose the 11’6″ paddleboard, which is also a budget-friendly SUP without sacrificing the paddleboard’s quality and performance.

It is very stable in the water, has great maneuverability, and glides smoothly. At the same time, it is ideal for both beginners and advanced paddlers. Another feature that I appreciated was the abundance of carrying handles, which made it easy to transport this SUP. The Gili AIR SUP is also lightweight, making it portable and easy to transport.

My main concern is that I don’t want other customers to go through what I went through because the accessories have flaws, as mentioned in the accessories section of this review. To avoid any of these scenarios, they should double-check everything before shipping the items. However, their customer service was helpful, and I was able to make a convenient arrangement with them.

Overall, this paddleboard represents excellent value for money! A versatile paddleboard that is affordable, beginner-friendly, and performs admirably! This stand-up paddleboard comes highly recommended! If you believe I have left out any information about this paddleboard, please leave it in the comments section below and we will gladly answer all of your questions.

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on our latest posts, such as new paddleboard reviews, SUP accessory reviews, and other news! We also post coupon codes and sales deals that you can use to save money! I hope this review has been useful to you in learning more about the Gili AIR SUP! I’ll leave you here to go SUPing!

If you found this review helpful, please be sure to share it with your friends or family who are also interested in SUP boarding. If you want to find out more about boats or what it’s like on the water, or if you have any questions about the Gili Air SUP or any other SUP boards, feel free to leave a comment. We’re always happy to help!

Thank you for taking the time to read the entire article!
Have a Blast SUPing!

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

10'6 / 11'6 AIR Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

$330.00

$545.00

in stock

Click for best price

Gilisports.com

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