SIPA boards are becoming more and more popular in the watersports scene. Before I start on this, let me remark that SIPA boards are nothing like Stand Up Paddle boards (obviously you don’t even need to paddle if you don’t want to) and they are not comparable to each other as they have many big differences in use and purpose.
The main difference of course is that SIPA boards are driven by a motor instead of by your own paddling, which is why it’s not loved by everyone. Why would someone put a motor in a Stand Up Paddle board when you can just paddle in the first place? Originally this development started because of safety reasons.
Boards were equipped with a motor in case the water changes and it would be too hard to get back to shore just by paddling. So even when the water currents and the wind push you away, the motor would help you to get to safety in these emergencies. That is why it has been added to paddle boards in the first place and this function is still very useful.
So even though there are some people who oppose the motor, this can actually save your life when out in rough weather conditions.
SIPA boards in use
SIPA boards run one to three hours on one fully charged 144Wh li-on battery depending on the use, it recharges again in two hours time. Another great advantage is that the board is self inflating, the all-around board should inflate itself up to 15 PSI in about 8 minutes time. For riding during darker times and extra safety the board is equipped with SUP LED lights.
It can also be remote controlled, so you can have the board inflate itself from a distance. When you are keeping the board somewhere else you can already have it inflate itself while you get ready for going out on the water.
You can use your SIPA board by turning it on, setting it to the desired speed and still paddle along with the optional carbon fiber paddle. The Stand Up Paddling experience won’t change at all because of this, and you can still keep the same movement and exercise. So you can use the same technique and you have the same result for your core.
The only difference is that the speed at which you move will be higher. The engine is fully integrated into the center of the board, so there’s virtually no drag or things that slow you down from reaching the highest speed possible with the engine.
You can check out the complete user manual below, to get a visual idea of how the boards work.
Weight and transport of SIPA boards
Of course you might be worried about the weight of SIPA boards, as the boards will be heavier than a regular paddle board that don’t have to carry the weight of a motor. However, in 2021 these boards have been reduced in weight by 40% compared to the boards in previous years. This is because the technology of the boards have improved, just like in regular Stand Up Paddle boards.
The boards are made out of double layer MSL drop-stitch with reinforced rails. Because there is less material used, less glue and less seals the board is quite light for its size. The engine and the battery are installed separately and add a weight of about 5 kg to the board. When on water, this is only a minimal difference in comparison to a standard inflatable paddle board.
If you take the weight of the average adult paddler (the SIPA boards can easily carry up to 130 kg), the motor only adds up to 5% to the overall weight. Carrying of the board and motor are easy with the supplied ergonomic backpack and a carrying bag.
All SIPA boards themselves are equipped with a front and back carry handle. On top of that all of the boards come with a carry-strap that connects to the D-rings (Side-back) and can be carried
over shoulder or under arm for easy transport when the board is fully inflated.
Inflating the SIPA board
Because the board uses a high pressure compressor, that pushes out air to pressure over 1 bar, the inflation process may be a bit louder than expected. If you feel like this is too loud and you want to reduce the amount of noise the inflating of the SIPA board makes, you can cover the compressor with the backpack while it is inflating the board.
The inflation is a two-step process. First the board is inflated halfway, then the engine is inserted (make sure you point it into the right direction, so that you won’t go backwards 😉). Then the second phase follows which brings it to optimal pre-set pressure.
Note: The red end of the hose goes onto the board’s air vent and the
black end goes onto the motor.
SIPA boards promotions
As you might have read before in this article, a paddle is not something that is included when purchasing a SIPA board as it is not necessary for using it on the water. However, there are often promotions that will add a free carbon fiber paddle or a free spare battery. There are also complete packages including these items available in the store, which will save you quite some money too – the paddle alone is for instance $300 already in purchase price!
SIPA boards collection 2022
SIPA Air Allrounder
Board length: 11’/ 336 cm
Board width: 90 cm
Board thickness: 15 cm
Board volume: 310 L
Max. capacity: 130 kg
Color: Grey | White | Green
Material: 11’0” double layer drop-stitch inflatable standup paddleboard
Inflation: Integrated compressor pump – the SipaAir system
The SIPA boards Air Allrounder is for paddlers of all ages and ability levels, as it is sturdy as a ship.
Families and those who are into SUP for the fun of it will love this model, which works as well as a SUP as it does as a mobile diving
board – endless summer fun.
The SIPA boards Air Cruiser is a faster model, based on the same shape as the original SIPA Boards Drive line, for the
adventurer who wants to get out on the water in minutes and keep paddling for hours. You will enjoy its straight lines and sleek shape, which cut through the chop and take you wherever your body powers you.
SIPA Drive Neo
Board size: 11′ / 336 cm
Board width: 30″ / 77 cm
Board thickness: 6″ / 15 cm
Board volume: 260 L
Board weight without engine: 7.7 kg
Material: 11′ drop-stitch inflatable standup paddleboard
Inflation: Fully integrated jet engine and built-in compressor – the SipaDrive®
The SIPA Boards Neo Drive is a bold step into a new way of paddling. Our lightest board ever will bring paddling close to anyone. Perfect fit for beginners, light paddlers and those who are in it for the joy.
Wide, stable and light, the 2021 Neo is just a push of a button away from transforming into a jet boosted board, assuring unmatched stability and course control. Equipped with carry handles and a carrying strap it is easy to transport, making it a great fit for young paddlers.
SIPA Drive Tourer
Board size: 12′ / 365 cm
Board width: 32.2″ / 82 cm
Board thickness: 6″ / 15 cm
Board volume: 320 L
Board weight without engine: 8.7 kg
Material: 12′ MSL drop-stitch inflatable standup paddleboard
Inflation: Fully integrated jet engine and built-in compressor – the SipaDrive®
The SIPA Boards Drive Tourer is the original classic. Its sleek lines cut through the chop and keep the paddler on the water all day long, yet it is versatile enough for pure recreation and enjoyment.
This is the perfect SUP to take you further, to show you what’s around the bend, and to help you find that hidden spot.
SIPA Drive All Rounder
Board length: 11′ / 336 cm
Board width: 35.4″ / 90 cm
Board thickness: 6″ / 15 cm
Board volume: 310 L
Color: Grey | White | Green
Material: 11’0” double layer drop-stitch inflatable standup paddleboard
Inflation: Fully integrated jet engine and built-in compressor – the SipaDrive®
The SIPA Boards Drive All-Rounder is meant for pure entertainment. Its strong and sturdy design will provide watersports lovers of all
ages and experience levels with countless hours of fun.
And as the perfect mobile diving board, this SUP is the perfect thing for those who want to spend as much time IN the water as ON it.
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 :)
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