Gili Mako Board Review: A Competitive Cheap SUP board!
Gili refers to a group of three small, beautiful islands off the coasts of Bali and Lombok, Indonesia. Gili Sports aims to produce high-quality paddleboards at a reasonable price.
What I liked about GILI Paddleboard is that they donate a portion of every paddleboard sold to their affiliated ocean charities, which support oceans, reefs, and endangered sea creatures.
Aside from that, they ensure that each rider who purchases a paddleboard has a great time on the water and enjoys the GILI sport SUP that they manufacture.
Do you think you’d be a good fit for a GILI paddleboard? I sure do!
Most suitable for:
The Gili Mako Board is a great all-around paddleboard for riders under 5’10” tall. This 32″ width paddleboard will provide you with the portability and speed that you demand. You will never have to doubt the SUP board’s quality because they are built with dual-layer fusion technology to ensure the safety and durability of the Gili Mako board.
This SUP board is a beginner-friendly paddleboard that can also be used by an experienced rider. The width of the SUP board will provide you with stability, speed, and ease of maneuverability. Let’s take a closer look at the Gili Mako board and what it has to offer!
Plus, it comes with all the accessories you need to get started, including a paddle, leash, and life jacket.
When it comes to performance, the Gili Mako 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 or camping on your SUP board, the Gili Mako has plenty of room for all your gear.
Pro’s
- The SUP is lightweight
- Affordable
- Easy To Carry
- High-Quality Backpack
- Numerous D-rings
- With action Mounts
- Beginner-Friendly
- Tri-fin and Snap-In Fin setup
- Excels in all water condition
- Quality Accessories
- Built with Fusion Dual Layer Technology (the strongest and lightest material for GILI)
- 2 Year Warranty
- Supports Ocean Charities and donates for every purchased SUP board
Cons
- With the Great features and high-quality materials used, I can’t say any negative about this SUP board
What Makes Gili Mako Stand Out?
First and foremost, I liked the idea that the Gili Paddleboard Company contributes to ocean charities by giving something to every SUP board sold. That’s already a tremendous help! Even though the Gili Mako Board is a budget-friendly SUP board, the quality and materials are never compromised. This board is ideal for both beginners and experienced riders who are under the height of 5’10”.
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.
It is also relatively smooth and efficient on the water, making it ideal for long expeditions.
The Gili Mako board is great for any water conditions and provides a stable, fast, and easy–to–maneuver platform, which is an important consideration when purchasing a SUP. This paddleboard has a lot of potential!
Not to mention the fact that it comes with all of the necessary accessories and has a lot of great features. It has numerous D-rings and snap-in fins that are simple to install. I liked how they redesigned their SUP backpack to include multiple pockets, zippers, and mounting points.
A two-year warranty is included with the Gili Mako board.
Specifications
Length
Width
Thickness
Weight
Max Rider Weight
Max Air Pressure
Board type
Skill
Primary use
All Around/Touring/ Surfing
Speed on the water
The Gili Mako Board has a hybrid shape and a width of 32″. It is fast, and because of its width, it is also a stable paddleboard. Another factor is that the Gili Mako board is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver. It is ideal for kids and beginners who want to start paddling. This SUP board can give you the performance if you are under 5’10 and a light rider.
Transport
The Gili Mako Board is made of Gili Sport’s lightest material. This simply means that this paddleboard is lightweight and easy to transport. One of the reasons why this SUP board is great for kids is because of this.
The backpack includes a unique fin pocket as well as additional pockets to help you organize and carry your SUP. While some SUP companies have updated wheeled backpacks, you will never have to worry about carrying them on your shoulders or in your hands because of their lightness.
Stability
The Gili Mako board is 10 feet long and 32 inches wide, making it a stable SUP board on the water. This paddle board is ideal for people who weigh less than 150 pounds. This will provide you with the stability you desire while also allowing your children and pre-teens to enjoy the water. To perform well in the water, inflate the Gili Mako Board to 15 PSI.
Professional Experience
Based on my personal experience while playing it in the water, the Gili Mako Board by Gili Sports is a great choice for those kids and pre-teens who want to start paddling. But don’t get me wrong, this SUP is suitable for even experienced riders!
Trying out this SUP in the water is impressive because it will provide you with a fast, maneuverable, and stable paddleboard.
I know I keep saying it, but there is a weight and height limit to get the most out of the features that this Gili Mako board has to offer.
This is a great board for anyone who wants to get into stand-up paddle boarding or someone who wants a versatile board that can handle different conditions.
In the small paddler segment, this paddleboard is quite competitive. Your kids will have no trouble grasping this SUP board in the water, thanks to its lightweight materials. I also liked that it has a lot of great features that you will appreciate if you try it out on the water.
The Gili Mako board is made of two layers of PVC, making it extremely durable. It is 32″ hybrid shape will provide you with a stable, fast, and maneuverable SUP.
The Gili Mako Board has a 6-point removable bungee and a 6-point oversize front bungee. You can easily remove and reattach the bungee if you want to bring an extra SUP bag with you. Allowing you to add more accessories to make your paddling experience more fun, as well as the new 5 action mounts for any of your cup holders, action cameras, and paddle.
It has a paddle that is integrated into the board, keeping your paddle safe and secure while transporting it or out on the water. The Gili Mako Board has a grooved center traction pad and a diamond pad on the back to increase traction while also making riders comfortable.
The Gili Mako Board will provide you with high-quality paddling accessories. Gili Sports has made sure that even the cheapest paddleboard on the market will satisfy every SUP rider. The Gili Mako board comes with a two-year warranty.
Important features
The Basics
- The Gili Mako Board comes in two colors: blue and green.
- This SUP board is best suited to riders who are 5’10” or shorter, and it performs admirably in all water conditions.
- Pump, leash, backpack, and paddle are all great iSUP accessories.
- The Gili Mako Board is constructed using Dual-Layer Technology, which is the strongest and lightest iSUP material available.
- It has 18 D-rings on which you can attach any of your favorite accessories.
- A two-stage high-pressure pump that makes inflating and deflating your SUP board a breeze.
- Snap-In Fins and Side Fins are simple to install and take only seconds.
- There are carry handles in the front, back, and center for easy transportation and carrying.
- Warranty coverage for two years with excellent customer service
- Every SUP board sold generates a donation to ocean reef and turtle charities.
Fins
The Gili Mako Board comes with three Snap-In fins that are simple to install. The Gili Sport also has a “fin pocket” built into its backpack, ensuring that your fins will never go missing. This is a unique feature in Gili Boards’ backpacks that I rarely see on other SUP companies’ backpacks. The fins will aid you in performing well in any type of storage. The prominent fins are attached to the board with screws.
Material
Even though the Gili Mako board is a low-cost paddleboard, it is made of high-quality materials. The Gili Mako board is constructed using fusion dual-layer technology, which makes it durable, safe, and stable. You can get a SUP board that will allow you to enjoy and explore the water for a reasonable price.
Inflate / deflate
In 6 minutes, I was able to inflate my paddleboard with the included high-pressure pump. The SUP board was also simple to deflate afterward. However, if you want to have a stress-free pre-paddling experience, I recommend investing in a good electric SUP pump so that pumping your SUP board is a breeze. 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 Mako board comes with a two-year warranty. This is an excellent SUP board for beginners as well as those looking for a low-cost option. This SUP company has received numerous positive reviews, with many people praising their paddleboards and praising the excellent customer service.
Design
The Gili Mako board is available in two color options: blue and green. Durability and safety are guaranteed thanks to dual-layer fusion technology! The design of this board is simple, but the shape and features of this SUP make it appear to be a more expensive SUP board. The materials used are of excellent quality, and there is a great bundle of accessories included that every new paddler will need!
In the package
Paddle
A fiberglass, carbon/nylon, or a full carbon paddle is included in the Gili Mako Board package. You can choose between those 3 types. The board has an integrated paddle holder to keep your paddle secure, which is ideal for just relaxing in the water. This would also make transporting the board easier.
Leash
A leash is also included in the package, which is a great feature because this is an essential piece of equipment for all paddlers.
This is especially important for children and even adults to ensure that their paddleboard is secure in their possession in case they fall off. Gili Sport has done a fantastic job including this in the Gili Mako board package.
Pump
A 2-stage high-pressure pump on the Gili Mako board inflates the board in minutes. I was able to pump it for at least 6 minutes in my experience. It’s a single-chamber pump, which is nice, but if your child can pump, it might be difficult for them to get the inflation to the recommended PSI.
If you’re reading this because you want to get one for your child, I recommend you also get a good electric SUP pump to make the process as easy as possible.
Backpack
A standard backpack is included in the Gili Mako board’s package. It’s a high-quality backpack with a lot of compartments for your belongings. The added fin pocket at the front of this SUP is another feature I liked.
It ensures that your SUP board fins are secure and in the right place. It may lack wheels for easy transport, but I don’t believe this would be an issue given the quality and backpack features, as well as the lightweight paddleboard.
Repair Kit
The Gili Mako board also comes with a repair kit in case something goes wrong with it. Although we do not wish for this to occur, it is a good thing that they have included it in their package. A valve wrench, three PVC repair patches, and three replacement flip locks for the board’s fins are included in the kit. Having a spare repair kit is better than having none!
Fin Set
There is a 3-fin set. Pretty standard in the industry and easily mountable or replaceable in case you lose or break a fin.
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 Mako 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 Mako board 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) π
Outdoormaster Shark 2
My favorite Electric SUP pump among all. Buy it here and save 35% with code TOM35 today.
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 Mako Paddle Board Online
supboardguide.com: “Gili Sports New 10β Mako inflatable stand up paddleboard is a great choice for smaller paddlers including teens and preteens. Based on the previous Gili Sports models and its size this should be plenty stable for new paddlers just getting their feet wet. It also comes with many features typically reserved for the larger more expensive iSUPs. At its current price with the included electric pump, itβs a great choice for the holidays.”
gilisports.com: “I took this board out for the first time today and love it. Itβs much lighter to carry than my last board and handles nicely on the water. It does turn and maneuver better than the typical 10.5β length. I had no issues with stability. Iβm 5β2β and about 130lbs. Also, love all the attachment points and pack. There was a bit of a snafu with shipping (my fault) and Gili customer service helped get it sorted out. Great board, great company.”
gilisports.com: “I bought 2 Mako’s (one for each child) and it was a resounding success. The Black Friday deals were too good to pass up. These are the perfect boards for younger children to handle on their own. The quality was excellent and the features were plentiful. Both children appreciated the varying color schemes and the ocean-related graphics. All around great choice! We will be on the water in no time!”
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gili Mako Board
Is the Gili Mako Paddleboard durable?
Yes! With its high-quality and light materials used. You can rely on this beginner-friendly and budget-friendly paddleboard.
Is the Gili Mako board an All-Around Paddle Board?
Yes, it is a very versatile SUP
What is the size of the Gili Mako Board?
Length: 10′ Width: 32″ Thickness: 6′
What is the maximum carrying capacity of the Gili Mako Board?
260 lbs or 118 kg
What is included when purchasing the Gili Mako Paddle Board?
The Gili Mako Board includes the Paddle, Leash, Backpack, and SUP hand pump.
What is the weight of the Gili Mako Board?
It weighs 20 lbs or 9 kg
How many fins does the Gili Mako Board have?
The Gili Mako Board has 3 Snap-In Fins that are easy to install.
How many D-rings does the Gili Mako Board have?
The Gili Mako Board has a total of 18 D-rings. Making this paddleboard accessible for any accessories that you want to use.
How long is the warranty on the Gili Mako Board?
The Gili Mako Board has a 2-year warranty.
Does the Gili Mako Board have an action-camera mount?
Yes
How many handles does the Gili Mako Board have?
The Gili Mako board has 7 handles.
What pressure can the Gili Mako Paddle be inflated to?
Maximum Air Pressure of 15 PSI.
How long does it take to inflate the Gili Mako Board?
The Gili Mako Board took me 6 minutes to inflate.Β
Product image | |||
---|---|---|---|
Product | Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review | Gili MAKO Board Review | Gili MENO SUP: Best Beginners’ SUP |
Build | Inflatable | Inflatable | Inflatable |
Skill | Beginner | Beginner | Beginner |
Price | Price unknown | $448.00 | $695.00 |
Score | 10 | 8.6 | 9.4 |
All-round | |||
Touring | |||
Surfing | |||
Yoga |
Conclusion – Should I buy this board?
My final thoughts on the Gili Mako board are that, despite its low price, it is a very capable SUP board. If you compare all of the updated features now, you can see that the Gili Paddle Board Company has made sure to stay competitive in the SUP industry with the paddleboards that they update and release!
I’m glad I got to try this SUP board because the Gili Paddle Board company never compromised on the quality of the materials used or the accessories. This SUP board should be one of your options if you’re looking for a paddleboard that’s both affordable and beginner-friendly.
When I tested it on the water, it had good tracking and great stability and was also easy to maneuver. Who wouldn’t want something like that? This is best suited to light riders, such as your children and adolescent riders who are under 5’10”. This will improve Gili Mako’s performance in the water. With its excellent features and necessary accessories, you won’t be able to ask for anything more from this SUP.
This SUP board will allow you to practice effectively because it provides excellent stability while on the water. Not only that, but it has a lot of D-rings on it, so you can attach some of your favorite paddle accessories to it. This Gili Mako Board will ensure that you have a great time out on the water without breaking the bank! I also liked that they chose charities to support that support the ocean and reefs. As a result of their actions, they have been dedicated to the ocean.
If you’re still looking for a SUP board and are on a budget, this SUP board should be one of your options. The Gili Mako board has received rave reviews online for its design and high-quality materials used to make your paddling experience unforgettable and enjoyable! Have I covered all of the important details about this Gili Mako Board?
If you have any further questions about this board, please ask them in the comments section below, and we’ll be happy to respond. The SUPing season is here and it’s not too late to decide which SUP to buy!
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 Mako or any other SUP boards, feel free to leave a comment and follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages. We’re always happy to help!
Thank you for taking the time to read the entire article!
Have a Blast SUPing!
Related Posts
Comparison
Product image | |||
---|---|---|---|
Product | Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ Review | Gili MAKO Board Review | Gili MENO SUP: Best Beginners’ SUP |
Build | Inflatable | Inflatable | Inflatable |
Skill | Beginner | Beginner | Beginner |
Price | Unknown price | $448.00 | $695.00 |
Score | 10 | 8.6 | 9.4 |
All-round | |||
Touring | |||
Surfing | |||
Yoga |