Aqua Marina Vapor Review (2021)

Here we review the Aqua Marina VAPOR 10’4 paddle board.

A high-quality paddleboard can be pretty pricey, and the average-priced SUP boards are often unsuitable for the waves. As such, if you are looking for a SUP board that offers a comfortable ride at an affordable price point, it can take you a long time to find a suitable craft.

But, fortunately, Aqua Marina has constructed the VAPOR 10’4, and its 2021 release is a decent quality, well-made paddleboard that will last long and serve your needs in the best way possible.

Plus, it’s affordable, at the time of writing averaging around £370 ($500) in stores. This way, it won’t break your bank!

So let’s see what are the pluses and minuses of this board.

A little about the Aqua Marina VAPOR 10’4 (2021)

Aqua Marina’s newest 2021 release of the VAPOR 10’4 boasts a more generous volume and a better overall performance than the older version. Plus, it has a decent carrying capacity.

In addition, the board’s deck has a diamond grooved deck pad that not only ensures the paddler’s comfort but also provides extra grip. This way, even beginner paddlers will have an easier time learning the ropes with this watercraft.

Moreover, Aqua Marina uses advanced light drop stitch technology to make the craft more durable. 

Furthermore, the board itself is pretty lightweight, yet it can support a lot of cargo. Also, it can hold a high PSI level. Thus, the SUP board has excellent rigidity and average versatility.

That said, it sports an average width, thicker construction, and only one fin. So, while this board tracks and glides better, it’s not the best for stability and maneuverability.

Nevertheless, this SUP board performs pretty well for its affordable price tag.

The Package

The Aqua Marina VAPOR comes with a nearly complete package. This package includes:

• An Aqua Marina VAPOR 10’4 SUP board
• Single chamber double-action manual pump
• Adjustable sports III SUP paddle
• SUP safety leash
• A removable fin

In essence, it comes with almost everything you’ll need to get in the water. But remember to bring and wear a PFD when heading out in the deep waters.

Performance analysis

This SUP board performs exceptionally well in calm inland waters and small waves. On the other hand, it’s not very suitable to battle large whitecaps, rough winds, and waves.

So, let’s take a more detailed look at its performance,

1. Stability

The Aqua Marina Vapor is 31 inches wide. Thus it should have average stability. However, this craft is also 6 inches thick, so it has a higher center of gravity than the standard board.

As such, while the extra thickness allows the board to hold more air and carry more cargo, it lowers the craft’s overall stability.

Additionally, it has a single fin setup which also does not boost stability like the tri-fin system.

But, in the hands of an intermediate paddler or one who has a bit of experience with balance and motion, the board will sport excellent stability due to its shape. After all, it has an all-arounder nose, and its side shape lets you paddle straight with minimal effort.

Verdict:

It does not have the best stability.

2. Durability

With Aqua Marina’s light Drop Stitch Technology, the VAPOR sports a sturdy core. Moreover, this core also has double-wall fabric.

The board has a printed lightweight tarpaulin and two PVC layers that further reinforce its durability.

This way, it’ll survive most impact-based damages and accidental falls without getting worn and torn. As such, it’ll last for years, and you can use it on the small waves without too much worry. 

But, it may be better to avoid rock-infested waters as these inflatable boards can still get punctured unless they have the highest quality rails and PVC layers. Additionally, it would lengthen its lifespan if you store this board indoors as the UV rays can damage it over time.

Verdict:

This board has excellent durability.

3. Maneuverability

The Aqua Marina Vapor paddle board features an all-arounder nose and shape, and since it’s relatively more minor than travel or race SUP boards, it’s a bit easier to maneuver this craft.

Moreover, it has a diamond grooved deck pad that provides extra grip for the rider. With it, you can maneuver your paddleboard comfortably and safely without hitting the water too often.

On the other hand, to improve its tracking ability, this watercraft has a single fin setup. This way, beginners will have an easier time keeping the board on track, but it will be slower while making turns without side bite fins.

Nevertheless, the six-inch thickness and strategic tail shape let the paddler effortlessly maneuver this board in small waves.

Verdict:

It offers better than average maneuverability.

4. Carrying Capacity

An average paddleboard typically supports 200-300 lbs, while the Aqua Marina Vapor can hold 308 pounds or 140 kg.

Thus, with this craft, you’ll be able to carry all the essential paddleboarding gear and supplies for short sessions.

However, this SUP board has limited space. Thus, it’s not very suitable for long-distance expeditions of SUP fishing trips. After all, you won’t be able to fit extra gear on this board without facing performance issues.

Still, it has some convenient D-rings, so you can pull along some cargo, gear, or even place a kayak sit on the board.

Verdict:

It boasts a decent carrying capacity.

5. Versatility

Even though the Aqua Marina Vapor paddle board is an all-arounder, it’s only suitable for light paddling, relaxing sessions rather than surfing or river running.

Additionally, it has a single fin set up with a long fin length. Thus, it may not perform very well in shallow waters or rough weather. But, fortunately, the fin is removable so that you can have a slight amount of flexibility with your setup.

Also, the weight capacity and D-rings let you customize the board a bit to suit your needs. 

Nonetheless, this craft is not ideal for paddleboard fishing, racing, or yoga.

Verdict:

It sports an average versatility.

Aqua Marina Vapor Paddle Board: Bottom line

The Aqua Marina VAPOR 10’4  is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started in the world of stand-up paddleboarding. After all, it’s an affordable board that offers quality performance without straining your bank balance.

However, while it’s fantastic for beginners, you’ll still need to practice a bit to balance yourself on this craft and maneuver it properly.

Afterward, once you have familiarised yourself with it, you’ll be amazed at how well this paddle board performs in calm waters.

But don’t just take our word for it. Instead, get your new Aqua Marina VAPOR paddle board today and enjoy your next SUP adventure!

Check out the Aqua Marina Vapor Paddle Board 10’4 on their website

Alternatively, check out this overview of the whole range of Aqua Marina All-Round iSUPS for 2021: