SUP: On the fly – Fanatic Fly 10.6ft x 31” x 177L HRS 2016 review

Fanatic’s Fly 10.6ft is a benchmark shape for all round stand up paddle boards. Plenty of UK SUPers have owned one or experienced previous year versions. Billed as a suitable sled for beginners learning the art or intermediates progressing through the ranks, it’s a platform that has a broad appeal and accommodates a number of different stand up scenarios. But advanced sweepers shouldn’t be put off either – such is the Fly 10.6ft’s versatility.

At 31” wide and packing in 177L, Fanatic’s Fly 10.6ft offers a floaty platform that sits slightly elevated on the water. Thick rails and a flat deck increase the feeling of stability and at times you feel you’d have to run off the Fly to fall off.

The deckpad is super comfortable, grippy and as you sweep along you’ll notice the Fly builds up to moderate speed. Although the 10.6ft has what looks like a traditional nose, there’s a subtle elongating of the shoulders – making for better tracking. It doesn’t slice through H2O as a pointy nose SUP would but it’s pretty efficient nonetheless.

With it’s allround characteristics, you can literally take the Fly 10.6ft anywhere. Exploring nooks and crannies, cruising mellow waterways or even getting stuck into surf for the first time is all game. Coming with a single US box fin, there’s the option of adding two further Futures side bites to maximise performance in waves (if this is your thing). Alternatively keep it as is; just be aware of grinding the fin into rocks and shingle as it won’t take the harshest of abuse.

In contrast, the Fly’s HRS construction is extremely tough. It’s slightly weightier than its wooden sibling, but that doesn’t mean it’s awkward to carry. In fact, quite the opposite. The Fly 10.6ft is a joy to transport – especially with the ergonomic lipped deck handle.

If manoeuvres are your thing then the Fly will be a good tutor. It’s a composed platform that’ll allow SUPers to perfect everything from flat water pivot turns to full power bottom turns along wave faces. If you’ve got the leg strength then you may succeed in bouncing a few lips.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to Fanatic’s Fly 10.6ft as your first proper stand up paddle board then you won’t go far wrong. With its well-mannered ride, the 10.6ft offers flat water paddlers the chance to improve and progress in most paddling environments – flat water to waves (add two side fins for increased grip and performance in swell). HRS construction is hard wearing and will take knocks, while fixtures and fittings are top notch – as we’ve come to expect from one of the biggest global SUP companies. The Fly is a well-loved SUP and 2016’s version continues this trend.

Price:

Pure construction £929

HRS construction £1179

Wood construction£1449

Info:

www.fanatic.com/fr/product/fly-5/#series-1