Gili Komodo Review

Overview
Surf
Yoga
All-round
Touring
Pets
Family
Fishing
8.8
8.8
Our score
Stability
10
Design
10
Performance
10
Price/Quality ratio
8
Supplied accessories
6

Gili Komodo Review: The Most Versatile SUP You’ll Ever Need

Look no further than the Gili Komodo if you’re searching for a terrific SUP board to take your experience to the next level! This board is perfect for intermediate and advanced riders, and it provides a smooth, stable ride.

It’s also quite sturdy, making it perfect for anyone looking for a board that can withstand any terrain. We’ll go over all of the features that set the Gili Komodo apart from the competition in this review and tell you what to expect in terms of performance and durability from this board.

So, if you’re ready to step up your SUP game, keep reading!

Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo in Teal

For a good reason, the Gili Komodo SUP board is one of the most popular on the market. It’s a smooth, stable ride ideal for intermediate and experienced riders.

It’s also quite sturdy, making it ideal for anyone looking for a board that can withstand any terrain. We’ll go over all of the features that set the Gili Komodo apart from the competition in this review.

Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Front

The Gili Komodo’s sleek design is one of the first things you’ll notice. The board is constructed of high-quality, long-lasting material. It also includes an EVA deck pad for added traction and comfort.

When you’re not using your paddle, the Gili Komodo comes with a paddle holder to keep it close by.

Most suitable for:

The GILI Komodo is a terrific pick if you’re seeking a versatile inflatable stand-up paddle board. It is a adaptable board, and you can do anything with it. The GILI Komodo includes a full-length traction pad for yoga, as well as a paddle holder, an action mount, and a six-point bungee system that can be removed.

When it comes to performance, the Gili Komodo does not disappoint. It paddles smoothly and tracks well in both calm and rough water. It’s also stable enough to handle small waves and windy conditions. And if you want to go fishing, do yoga or tour on your SUP board, the Gili Komodo has plenty of room for all your gear.

Pro’s

  • Can perform several functions
  • Durable and ultra-lightweight
  • Excellent choice for paddling with pets or children
  • Fairly high weight capacity
  • Full-length deck pad great for SUP yoga
  • High-quality paddle board
  • It has a lot of accessories and features
  • Plethora of included features and accessories
  • They donate a portion of the proceeds for each board to protect oceans, coral reefs, and marine life
  • Very lightweight, making it great for smaller paddlers or hiking

Cons

  • The removable bungees are an excellent idea; however, larger D-rings are needed to make it easier to do
  • I believe the action mounts might be better integrated into the D-rings because they take up significant deck pad real estate
Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Attachment ring for kayak seat

What Makes Gili Komodo Stand Out?

The Gili Komodo Paddle Board is a multi-purpose paddle board that can be used for a variety of sports. It can be used for yoga, fishing, and even racing, though it is most typically used as a SUP surfing board. It’s a good pick for individuals looking for a paddle board that can be utilized for various activities.

The brand new Gili Komodo is a wider “cruiser” type paddle board. Gauging 10’6″ x 33″ x 6″ when inflated, the additional width provides extra stability compared to a typical 32β€³ all-around SUP.

Thanks to the entire cover, full coverage traction, and removable cargo bungees, it is also perfect for bringing the kids and dog on board or for using for yoga. 

A percentage of the proceeds from your SUP purchase will be contributed to organizations that work to protect our oceans, reefs, and endangered sea creatures.

This board is inexpensive and includes numerous features and extras. It’s easy to transport, lightweight, and provides outstanding maneuverability and stability on the water.

Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Back of board

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

There is a ton of storage onboard, including Velcro loops on the side for your paddle, and the entire deck pad is remarkably comfortable. Because of the taller sides of the board, it is raised above the water and can effortlessly be set off course on windy days.

The Gili Komodo is an excellent paddle board for those looking for a high-quality, long-lasting board that can take on any challenge. With its extra-large deck and thick construction, the Gili Komodo is perfect for larger riders or those who want a little more stability while paddling.

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

Did you know? It is one of the very few paddle boards on the market with a built-in keel.

The Gili Komodo 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 Komodo. You won’t be disappointed!

Specifications

Gili Komodo
Gili Komodo
length
Length
10'6
width
Width
33"
thickness
Thickness
6"
weight
Weight
21 lbs / 9.5 kg
rider weight
Max Rider Weight
340 lbs / 154 kg
air pressure
Max Air Pressure
15 PSI
colour options
Board type
All-around
skill
Skill
Beginner/ Experienced
Gili Komodo Review 1

Primary use
All-Around/Flat Water Paddling/Recreational/Ocean Paddling/Yoga/Touring/Family Paddling/Fishing

Gili Komodo Review 2

Speed on the water
One of the fastest paddle boards on the market is the Gili Komodo. It can attain speeds of up to 25 mph on calm water and can even withstand difficult conditions such as chop and waves.

The Gili Komodo is the way to go if you seek a board that will give you an adrenaline thrill. When you’re out on the lake, its sleek style is sure to turn heads. 

Gili Komodo Review 3

Transport
The Gili Komodo and its included pack are intelligently designed to be portable. The bag has a paddle storage pocket on the inside, board straps on the inside, various mesh pockets, tightening straps, and extra gear loops on the outside.

The side, shoulder, and hip straps may all be adjusted to help easily carry the 21-pound board. 

Gili Komodo Review 4

Stability
One of the most stable paddle boards on the market is the Gili Komodo. It’s suitable for both novice and experienced riders.

The board provides a sturdy platform for paddling and surfing with its wide, flat bottom and rounded nose. Gili Komodo’s strong polyethylene build makes it highly robust. You can trust your board to handle whatever you throw at it, whether you’re paddling in calm waters or hitting the waves.

Professional’s Experience

I always choose the Gili Komodo Paddle Board when it comes to touring and recreational paddling.

This is a great board for anyone who wants to get into stand-up paddle boarding or someone experienced who wants a versatile board that can handle different conditions.

The Gili Komodo is a well-designed, easy-to-maneuver board with good overall performance. It’s an excellent option for people looking for an inflatable board that can be set up quickly for flat water or small waves.

Using the accompanying dual-chamber pump, it inflates relatively quickly. The Gili Komodo is simply unbeatable in terms of performance. It glides across the water with ease and provides a stable ride. It’s also quite maneuverable, making it simple to get around tight spaces.

Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Side

And if you’re after speed, this board has enough of it! The Gili Komodo is unsurpassed in terms of durability. It’s made of a high-quality, long-lasting material that can withstand any weather. It also includes an EVA deck pad for added traction and comfort.

With all this, the Gili Komodo is definitely built to last.


Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Back bungee cords

Important features

Gili Komodo Review 5

Setup

  • 9″ Snap-In Removable Fin:
    The 9″ touring fin of the Gili Komodo is easy to install. No tools are needed; it simply clicks into place and feels strong and secure. The fin greatly helps with the board’s performance, so definitely use it unless you are in really shallow water. 
  • Diamond Grooved Traction Pad:
    The long diamond grooved EVA traction pad of the Gili Komodo is comfortable and provides excellent grip. It is quite large, allowing you to maneuver the length of the board if needed. 
  • Front Bungees:
    The 6-point front bungee system of the Gili Komodo is large enough to store your PFD, a dry bag, and/or other gear. We like the size and think it is ideal for storing essentials for a day out touring around. We did find that the more extensive bungee system was not ideal for our dogs, who like to ride shotgun, but otherwise, they are pretty great.
  • Front and Center Grab Handles:
    The center carry handle has a neoprene cover that makes the board more comfortable to carry. The cover can also be used to secure your paddle when not in use. The front grab handle is ideal if you end up in the water and need to grab hold of your board.
  • Rear D-Ring:
    The stainless steel D-ring of the Gili Komodo at the tail end of the board is ideal for securing your board leash.
Gili Komodo Review 6

Fins
The fins of Gili Komodo are made from a tough and durable material called polyethylene. Polyethylene is a solid material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also very lightweight, making it ideal for water sports equipment use.
The fins are also UV resistant, so they will not fade or become brittle over time from exposure to the sun. Lastly, the polyethylene used in these fins is recyclable, so you can feel good about using a good product for the environment.

Gili Komodo Review 7

Material
The Gili Komodo is made of high-quality and durable materials. The company uses various materials to make its products, including high-quality stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, and polycarbonate plastic. Each material has unique properties that make it ideal for different applications. 

Gili Komodo Review 8

Inflate / deflate
It only takes about ten to fifteen minutes to inflate the Gili Komodo entirely. 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.

Gili Komodo Review 9

Warranty
The Gili Komodo Inflatable SUP Board comes with a 2-year warranty. Gili Sports’ SUP Board comes with a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects and a 60-day money-back guarantee so that you can feel safe about your purchase.

The warranty is quite standard for SUPs in this price range, but the 60-day return policy sets it apart from the competition.

Gili Komodo Review 10

Design
The Gili Komodo is designed to provide a stable and comfortable ride while paddling on flat water. The board is made of durable yet lightweight materials that make it easy to carry and transport.

The deck is covered with a nonslip surface to keep your feet in place, and the paddle board also features an integrated kickstand for added stability. With its sleek design and performance-minded construction, the Gili Komodo is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a day on the water.


In The Package: What’s in the box

Gili Komodo Teal
Gili Komodo Full Package

Paddle

The 3-piece paddle of the Gili Komodo is ideal for traveling and easy storage. It is strong and durable and a great paddle to start with. Aluminum paddles are notoriously heavy, so you may want to upgrade down the road to a lighter one, but I didn’t mind using this paddle at all. The blue detail on the blade matches the board and is a nice touch. It makes for a sharp-looking package.

Gili MAKO Board
Gili Board Paddle

Leash

A 10′ coiled SUP leash of the Gili Komodo (blue to match the board) is included in the package of the Gili Komodo. The leash is an essential safety item that keeps the board from being swept away from you if you should fall in the water.

Pump

The hand pump of the Gili Komodo that comes with this package has two settings. The first setting allows you to pump the board until it takes shape. Then you can switch to the second setting, which allows you to pump more efficiently to reach the target PSI level. The pump works well, and with a little effort, we had no problem fully inflating the board in approximately 10 minutes.

One thing I must be honest about is that I received a broken pump PSI meter with the board. I’m sure this doesn’t happen often, I was the lucky one:) but just a heads up to the company!

Backpack

The Gili Komodo backpack zips open on three sides, making it easy to get everything in and out. The backpack feels strong and durable, and the heavy-duty zippers work well. The adjustable padded shoulder straps make it relatively comfortable to carry, and the waist and chest straps provide a bit more support if you need to carry it further.

Side mesh pockets allow you to store the paddle and side clips for cinching the package tight. There is one top carry handle as well as a plastic ID pocket at the top.

The light color of the bag is going to get dirty quickly, so you may need to do some spot cleaning if you care about that eventually. I somehow wished it had side handles for taking it in and out of the car, but overall it’s a great bag!

Repair Kit

Yes, Gili Komodo 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.

Gili Komodo repair kit
Gili Komodo repair kit

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 Komodo 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.

Gili Komodo Handle
Gili Komodo Handle

Kayak Conversion Kit/Seat Cushion

Because the Gili Komodo 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) πŸ˜‹

outdoormaster-sup-pump

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

Gili Komodo Review 11

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


Difference between an Inflatable board and a Hard board

Advantages Inflatable board

  • Easy to take on holiday (even on the plane)
  • Easy to store in the winter days
  • Much cheaper
  • Technology has improved greatly over the past 10 years. For this reason, these boards are now almost hard to distinguish from hard boards

Advantages Hardboard

  • More speed, which is important if you are a professional
  • Easier to make sharp turns on the water because the board is thinner
  • No inflation needed, you can get on the water right away

Other reviews of the Gili Komodo Paddle Board Online

Gili Komodo Board
Gili Komodo Board

amazon.com: “Love this paddleboard. The best thing about it is how easy it is to pack up, move, set up, use, etc. Perfect if you have had some experience. Material seems to be pretty high quality. I’ve used mine several times with absolutely no issues. The only thing was that my pump broke, but it could have been my error. I had been using the dual-action setting when the pressure in the board was nearing 12-14psi, and the top of the pump sheared off from the tube. I contacted customer service, and they sent me a new pump right away with no issues. Not only was it a replacement, but they also sent me the dual tube heavy-duty pump. This was way above and beyond what I was expecting, and because of this, I would recommend this company to everyone.”

dicksmith.com.au: “Really happy with the board; it’s nice and stable. The seat is great if you can’t stand up or just want to cruise along. It was easy to inflate and pack up by myself, and I had no issues carrying it to the beach.”

Frequently Asked Questions about the Gili Komodo SUP

Do I need to wear a life jacket when paddling my Gili Komodo?

In most cases, yes. Life jackets are always a good idea when you’re on the water, regardless of your skill level. That said, if you’re an experienced paddler and you’re paddling in calm waters, you may not need to wear a life jacket.

How do I store my Komodo paddle board?

Your Gili Komodo paddle board should be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use. We recommend hanging it on a wall rack if you have the space. This will help prevent warping and damage to the finish.

What are some common problems with paddle boards?

The most common problem with paddle boards is that they get scratched easily. To avoid this, be careful when transporting your board and don’t stand on it in rocky areas. Another common problem is that the fin can come loose. To prevent this, check the fin regularly and tighten it if necessary.

How do I care for the Gili Sports Komodo paddle board?

To care for the Gili Sports Komodo paddle board:
1. Rinse it off with fresh water after each use.
2. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use.
3. Avoid contact with sharp objects.Β 

How often should I wax my paddle board?

This depends on how often you use your paddle board and how salty or dirty the water is. In general, however, you should wax your Gili Komodo board at least once a month.

Where can I buy a Gili SUP?

You can purchase it from the links above in this article. Our website offers the most reliable purchase and shipping methods from various different online retailers.

What do the Gili SUP boards come with?

The Gili SUP boards come with a fin, repair kit, leash, paddle, backpack and pump.

What should I do if I capsize?

If you capsize or flip over, the first thing you should do is stay calm. Then, swim to your paddle board and get back on it. If you can’t get back on your board, float on your back until someone comes to help you.

How long will it take to inflate a Gili Komodo SUP?

The Gili SUP boards can be approximately inflated in 5 minutes with electric pump or about 15 minutes with the included high-pressure hand pump.

Bluefin SUP Voyage: 2024 ReviewGili Komodo ReviewBluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review
ProductBluefin SUP Voyage: 2024 ReviewGili Komodo ReviewBluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review
BuildInflatableInflatableInflatable
SkillBeginnerBeginner/ ExperiencedBeginner
PricePrice unknown $405.00 Price unknown
Score8.48.810
All-round
Touring
Surfing
Yoga
Gili Komodo Board
Gili Komodo Board

Conclusion – Should I buy this board?

The Gili Komodo SUP board is one of the most popular boards on the market, and for a good reason. It’s perfect for intermediate and advanced riders, and it provides a smooth, stable ride. It’s also highly durable, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants a board that can handle any terrain.

Overall, I believe the Gili Komodo is a wonderful choice for individuals interested in lake cruising, SUP Yoga, SUP fitness classes, and those who’d like to SUP with four-legged friends and/or kids. This board is extremely stable and can support a lot of weight while remaining maneuverable. It’s not the fastest across the water, but that’s fine when you consider the purpose of this board: relaxation.

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 Komodo or any other SUP boards, feel free to leave a comment. We’re always happy to help!

Don’t forget to follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest SUP updates.

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


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Review written by: Tom

Hi! My name is Tom. During the year I try to be on a paddle board as much as possible. By reading this blog you'll stay updated on everything I test on the water :)

Questions? Ask me anything.
I might earn a small commission when you make a purchase through my link, so that I can keep my site running and pay the hosting bill. Read my affiliate policy to learn more.
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Comparison

Bluefin SUP Voyage: 2024 Review Gili Komodo Review Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review
Product Bluefin SUP Voyage: 2024 Review Gili Komodo Review Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review
Build Inflatable Inflatable Inflatable
Skill Beginner Beginner/ Experienced Beginner
Price Unknown price $405.00 Unknown price
Score 8.4 8.8 10
All-round
Touring
Surfing
Yoga

Specifications

length
Length
10'6
width
Width
33"
thickness
Thickness
6"
weight
Weight
21 lbs / 9.5 kg
rider weight
Max Rider Weight
340 lbs / 154 kg
air pressure
Max Air Pressure
15 PSI
colour options
Board type
All-around
skill
Skill
Beginner/ Experienced

Comments are closed.

Review written by: Tom

Hi! My name is Tom. During the year I try to be on a paddle board as much as possible. By reading this blog you'll stay updated on everything I test on the water :)