Yoga
All-round
Touring
Pets
Family
Fishing
Stability
Design
Performance
Price/Quality ratio
Supplied accessories
Gili MENO SUP: The Best Stand Up Paddle Board for Beginners
If you’re looking for a quality paddle board, the Gili MENO SUP is definitely worth considering. This board is manufactured with high-quality materials and construction, perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key features that make the Gili MENO SUP stand out from the competition. Yoga enthusiasts, families, heavier paddlers, newbies, and anyone looking for a beautiful all-around board will love the Gili MENO SUP board.
Most suitable for:
The Gili MENO SUP 10’6 ′′ and 11’6 ′′ are multi-purpose paddle boards designed for fitness, fishing, and recreational “cruiser” paddling.
This paddle board’s sleek and sophisticated design is one of the first things you’ll notice about it. The Meno is available in various colors, so you may pick one that best fits your personality.
The board’s deck is also textured, which helps prevent slippage while paddling. They can hold up to 450 pounds of weight, so you can bring the kids and dogs along for the ride.
The 35-inch width gives exceptional stability while remaining maneuverable.
The Gili MENO SUP has bungees for storage on the nose and tail, as well as front, rear, and center grab handles to make it easy to transport the SUP.
The Gili MENO SUP is a versatile board that can be used for various activities. It’s made with a durable construction that can withstand even the roughest waters. The board also has a great design that makes it easy to maneuver and control.
Watch my entire unboxing video of the Gili Meno SUP. I’m showcasing all elements that come with the board before I test it out.
Pro’s
- 2-year warranty on dual-layer PVC military-grade construction
- A portion of the profits will be donated to help clean up the ocean
- It can handle up to 450/485 pounds and is highly stable and rigid
- Fast board for a giant inflatable SUP
- iSUP bundle with everything you need, including a fin kit
- It’s surprisingly light for its size and feels fantastic on the water.
- Many fin alternatives are provided with the kit and a slew of other useful features and extras.
- Rails made of carbon fiber for greater durability
- Remarkably stable + high weight capacity for new or larger paddlers – but due to the board’s lightweight, it’s still suitable for lighter paddlers.
- There are two sizes available: 10’6 long and 11’6 long
Cons
- I like the removable bungee concept; however, the small d-rings make it challenging to remove them
- It is actually not the fastest, but it glides nicely
- For increased grip, would like to see a full-length deck pad option with brand stamps or diamond groves
What Makes Gili Adventure Stand Out?
The Gili MENO’s stability is one of its distinguishing features. That’s what it’s made for, and I can attest that it works. It’s the best all-around SUP for any activity that requires a stable board.
Another great feature of the Gili MENO SUP is its lightweight construction. This makes it easy to transport and store, even if you don’t have a lot of space.
The board also comes with a carrying handle and an adjustable paddle so that you can customize your experience.
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 MENO SUP is an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality, affordable paddle board. The board is made of durable materials and construction, and it includes a comfortable carrying handle for easy transport.
It also comes with a convenient storage bag to keep your belongings safe while you’re out on the water.
The Meno is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The Gili MENO SUP is 35 inches wide with a 450/485-pound weight capacity. (There are two lengths available: 10’6 and 11’6)
It’s ideal for parents who want to paddle with their children and dogs. It’s also a terrific SUP for yoga and heavy paddlers. The Gili MENO SUP is only 23/24 lbs or around 10 kg despite its size.
18 D-rings, five action mounts, and a five-piece fin kit are included with the Meno SUP board. This, combined with its small size, makes it a versatile SUP.
It can be used for fishing, recreational paddling, yoga, touring, and other activities.
Specifications
Length
Width
Thickness
Weight
Max Rider Weight
Max Air Pressure
Board type
Skill
Primary use
All-Around/Flat Water Paddling/Recreational/Ocean Paddling/Yoga/Fishing
Speed on the water
The Gili MENO SUP isn’t built to go fast. However, if you put in the effort, this board is shockingly fast through the water and highly stable. Yes, it’s a little too big for smaller paddlers, but you will love the extra space for families with children, pets, or a lot of gear.
Transport
The Gili MENO SUP is super easy to transport. You can either carry it by the handles or use the included shoulder strap. The board is also very light, so you won’t have any trouble carrying it around.
Stability
This is where the Meno inflatable SUP really shines. You’ll never have to worry about the Meno being stable because it is actually one of the widest single-rider paddle boards available. It’s more challenging to stay balanced on a thinner paddle board.
Personal Experience
I have been eyeing the Gili MENO SUP for a while now and finally took the plunge and got one for myself. I am so glad I did!
The Meno SUP is perfect for anyone who wants to get into stand-up paddle boarding. Because of its width and length, many individuals may be concerned about the maneuverability of the Gili MENO SUP. However, it is actually pretty easy to control.
Yes! It is incredibly stable and easy to maneuver even in choppy waters.
The best thing about it is that it’s lightweight and portable, making it perfect for those who love traveling and exploring new places.
I was really impressed with the quality of the Gili MENO SUP. It’s definitely one of the best values on the market. The construction and materials are top-notch, and it comes with some great features like a comfortable carrying handle and storage bag.
The Meno is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality paddle board.
The Gili Sports Paddle Board has received high marks from customers and experts alike. It’s one of the most popular boards on the market, and for a good reason. It’s a great value, very well made, and has some great features.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable paddle board, the Gili Sports Paddle Board is a great option. In addition, the customer service from Gili sports was also top-notch. They were very responsive and helpful with any questions I had. Overall, I could not be happier with my purchase and would highly recommend Gili sports to anyone looking for a new SUP.
So if you’re in the market for a new SUP board, be sure to check out the Gili MENO SUP.
Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!
Important features
Setup
- Handles:
The Gili MENO SUP has three grab handles, one in the center, one in front, and one in the back. The center carry handle is covered with neoprene. It’s comfortable to hold and makes carrying the SUP board alone a breeze. Although the other carry handles are not covered with neoprene, they are nonetheless comfortable to hold. The latest upgrade also has four front and back removable safety handles. These are excellent for children to grab onto while traveling with you. - Deck Pad:
A large portion of the Gili MENO’s deck is covered by a comfortable deck pad. The upgraded Meno traction pad includes more grooves for improved grip. For even more foot support, a rear diamond pattern has been incorporated. If you wish to practice SUP yoga, this EVA traction pad will be a great yoga mat. It is also suitable for pets and children. Throughout the journey, your furry/tiny traveler will be at ease. - D-Rings and Action Mounts:
There are 18 D-rings on the MENO stand-up paddle board. D-rings in the front and a four-point bungee cord in the back are connected by a six-point bungee cord. These are for your luggage.
The remaining D-rings can be used to secure a kayak seat or other gear. The Meno has five action mounts for your fishing gear, your action camera, and more, in addition to D-rings. A paddle holder is also included on the SUP board.
Fins
The Gili MENO SUP is equipped with three fins. It has two little side fins and a huge central fin. A three-inch river fin, 4.5-inch speed fin, nine-inch center fin, and two side fins are included in the package. This is fantastic because you can adjust the fin configuration based on where you plan to paddleboard. The fins are made from a soft, durable material designed to provide good grip and traction on the board. They are also flexible enough to allow for easy maneuvering in the water.
Material
Gili’s inflatable paddle board is made from dual-layer fusion-laminated military-grade PVC. Most manufacturers choose PVC since it is the best material for creating inflatables.
Inflate / deflate
It only takes about 20 minutes to fully inflate the Gili Meno SUP. That’s pretty quick, considering how big and sturdy it is. The pump that comes with it is also effortless to use. It only takes seconds to deflate the Gili Meno SUP. You just need to open the valve and let the air out. Once fully deflated, you can easily fold it up and store it in a small space. To speed up the process, I recommend my absolute best OM Shark II electric pump.
Warranty
The Gili MENO SUP Inflatable SUP Board comes with a two-year warranty. This warranty is against manufacturing defects and a 60-day money-back guarantee, so you can feel safe about your purchase. The warranty is quite common for SUPs in this price range, but the 60-day return policy sets it apart from the competition.
Design
The Gili Meno SUP is made specifically for beginners. It’s built of rigid, yet lightweight materials that make it easy to transport and store. The board’s wide nose and tail make it stable and easy to maneuver in the water. EVA foam is used to cover the deck, providing traction and comfort when paddling.
In the package
Paddle
The MENO travel paddle is made of carbon fiber and features a nylon blade. It disassembles into three pieces for transportation and storage. The paddle is 29 ounces and adjusts from 67 to 86 inches. It is buoyant.
Both the shaft and the handle are comfortable and ergonomic. You can upgrade your bundle to include a full carbon fiber paddle at a higher price. However, the nylon-blade paddle is good enough and quite effective.
Leash
The neoprene cuff on the 8-inch coiled leash is a nice touch. When you’re paddling, it feels nice and doesn’t bother you. It fits any size ankle.
Pump
The Gili Meno is large, and manual inflation can be challenging. The dual-chamber pump, on the other hand, makes the process simple. While the high-pressure manual pump works well, I strongly advise purchasing an electric pump. You will immensely enjoy it if you inflate and deflate your paddle board.
Backpack
The bag is large enough to hold the inflatable paddle board as well as your SUP accessories. It has pockets and attaching points to make storing easier. The redesigned fin pocket will come in handy if you often forget your fins. The backpack comes in a variety of colors to match your SUP. It also has wheels, so you can easily transport your paddle board.
Repair Kit
The Gili MENO 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!
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 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 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 MENO SUP 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.
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 Adventure Paddle Board Online
amazon.com: “I am an absolute beginner, never paddled before. I found the setup to be relatively quick and easy. The backpack is definitely big enough to repack easily after use. The board is stable and comfortable. I found it easy to maneuver. It’s lightweight enough to be easy to hoist into and out of my canal. So far a good choice, although I have nothing to compare it to. I may update once I have used it more than a few times.”
ubuy.co: “I have used a lot of SUP boards in the past, and this Gili board is by far the best designed and constructed board I have seen. Out of the box, no leaks, quality materials, quality paddle, and fins. The carry bag has nice wheels and straps for hauling around. Super excited to use this board this summer. I may even buy a second one. Will update the review if issues come up.”
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gili MENO SUP
How do I inflate the Gili MENO SUP?
You can use either a manual or electric pump to inflate the Gili MENO SUP. Depending on the size of your board, it will take between 15 and 30 minutes to fully inflate.
How do I know what size Gili MENO SUP to get?
The best way to determine what size Gili MENO SUP you need is to see if you will use the board alone or with a child, pet, or a partner. You can also consult with one of their experts to learn more. You can also contact us and we will help you choose the perfect board for your height, weight, and paddling style.
Do I need to be in shape to go stand-up paddle boarding?
No, you do not need to be in shape to go stand-up paddle boarding. However, it is a good idea to have some upper body strength since you will be using your arms a lot.
What are the dimensions of the Gili MENO SUP?
The dimensions of the Gili MENO SUP vary depending on the size of the board. There are two MENO SUPs; The 10’6″ and the 11’6″ board.
What type of fin system does it have?
The Gili MENO SUP has a US center fin box, so you can use any standard US center fin with it. There are also two side fins that come with the board – these can be used for stability when paddling in rougher conditions.
What kind of paddles do you recommend?
We recommend using adjustable fiberglass or carbon fiber paddles with the Gili MENO SUP. These will be lightweight and easy to use, even if you’re a beginner.
Do I need to worry about wind?
The Gili MENO SUP is stable and easy to paddle in most conditions, but we recommend using the side fins for extra stability if it’s windy.
Why is a high-quality SUP important for stability?
When you put too much weight on a poorly made inflatable SUP, it is likely to flex. This is not only inconvenient, but it also makes the SUP wobbly and unstable.
The Gili MENO SUP is also six inches thick. Paddle boards that are thinner have less volume and can’t hold as much weight. They also have a tendency to flex. The Meno is extremely stiff and glides effortlessly through the water.
How many D-rings does the Gili MENO SUP Board have?
It comes with 18 D-rings for storing your gear and other attachments.
| Product image |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product | 11′ & 12′ Gili Adventure SUP | Gili MENO SUP: Best Beginners’ SUP | Goosehill Paddle Board Sailor 10’6 Review |
| Build | Inflatable | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Skill | Beginner and Intermediate | Beginner | Beginner |
| Price | $695.00 | ||
| Score | 8.2 | 9.4 | 9.8 |
| All-round | |||
| Touring | |||
| Surfing | |||
| Yoga |
Conclusion – Should I buy this board?
Gili Sports has a long history of producing high-quality inflatable boards. The MENO is no exception. The Gili MENO SUP was an entertaining board to review. It’s light and relatively maneuverable for a board its size and is also pretty quick through the water.
One thing to note is that the Meno is a bit on the heavy side, so it might not be the best choice for those who have to carry their paddle board long distances. But if you’re just looking for a great all-around board, the Meno is definitely worth checking out. The SUP is sturdy and wide. It has a large weight capacity and can accommodate numerous riders or larger paddles.
This is definitely one of the best inflatable paddle boards available for fitness enthusiasts, families, and even fishermen. If you’re looking for a quality paddle board that won’t break the bank, the Gili Sports Meno is definitely worth checking out. Its high-quality construction and stylish design make it perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab a Meno and hit the water!
If you found this review helpful, please 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 Adventure 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
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.
Comparison
| Product image |
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Product | 11′ & 12′ Gili Adventure SUP | Gili MENO SUP: Best Beginners’ SUP | Goosehill Paddle Board Sailor 10’6 Review |
| Build | Inflatable | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Skill | Beginner and Intermediate | Beginner | Beginner |
| Price | $695.00 | ||
| Score | 8.2 | 9.4 | 9.8 |
| All-round | |||
| Touring | |||
| Surfing | |||
| Yoga |
Specifications
Length
Width
Thickness
Weight
Max Rider Weight
Max Air Pressure
Board type
