Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP or Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP? Which Pelican Model to Buy
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The pelican flow 106 hardshell sup vs loungeboard 9ft inflatable sup comparison highlights two distinct recreational options. Both boards prioritize stability and ease of use for beginners. The main difference lies in their construction and form. One uses rigid Ram-X material for a traditional feel. The other relies on inflatable drop-stitch technology for unique geometry. This choice affects transport, capacity, and intended water activities. You must decide which setup fits your storage and paddling style.
Key differences
| Aspect | Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP | Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Hardshell Ram-X material | Inflatable drop-stitch |
| Board Length | 10.6 ft | 9 ft |
| Board Width | 32 inches | 39 inches |
| Weight | 46 pounds | 19.5 pounds |
| Weight Capacity | not listed | 400 lb |
| Activity Focus | Recreational paddling | Yoga and lounging |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP if
- You prefer a rigid board with a longer track for straight-line stability.
- You do not need to store or transport a board frequently.
- You want a traditional hardshell feel with a standard width.
Choose Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP if
- You need a board that is easy to carry due to its lighter weight.
- You want maximum stability for yoga or two-person use.
- You prefer an inflatable design that can be deflated for storage.
Verdict: The Flow 106 suits paddlers who want a rigid, longer board for general recreation. The LoungeBoard 9ft is better for those needing high stability, portability, or a wider platform for yoga. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize rigidity and length or ease of transport and width.
Flow 106 vs LoungeBoard 9ft
Construction type
The Pelican Flow 106 is a hardshell board built with Ram-X material. This patented construction offers high-impact resistance, ensuring the board withstands bumps and scratches over time. It provides a rigid, traditional paddle feel. In contrast, the Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft is an inflatable SUP. It uses drop-stitch construction with thousands of tiny threads connecting the top and bottom layers. This allows the board to maintain shape and rigidity when inflated. The inflatable design offers different storage and transport benefits compared to the rigid hardshell structure of the Flow.
Board dimensions
Size and shape dictate how the board moves through the water. The Pelican Flow 106 measures 10.6 feet in length and 32 inches in width. This longer profile can aid in tracking and speed. The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft is shorter at 9 feet but significantly wider at 39 inches. The increased width on the LoungeBoard provides exceptional stability, making it easier for users to maintain balance. The Flow is narrower, which may feel less stable but offers a more traditional recreational paddle board silhouette for those who prefer a longer vessel.
Weight capacity
Load limits determine how much gear and how many people can use the board safely. The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft has a high weight capacity of 400 pounds. This robust construction allows it to comfortably accommodate two adults for paddling, lounging, or water-based activities together. The published specifications for the Pelican Flow 106 do not list a specific weight capacity. Without this data, you cannot confirm if it matches the LoungeBoard's high load limit. The LoungeBoard clearly supports heavier loads or multiple users based on its stated rating.
Portability and weight
How you transport the board matters for storage and car travel. The Pelican Flow 106 hardshell weighs 46 pounds. It is a rigid unit that requires significant space and a roof rack for transport. It features four molded carrying handles and a center recessed handle to help manage this weight. The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft weighs only 19.5 pounds when deflated. As an inflatable, it can be rolled up and stored in a bag, making it much easier to store in a car trunk or garage. The LoungeBoard is significantly lighter and more portable.
Deck features
Both boards include features to enhance your time on the water. The Pelican Flow 106 comes with an anti-slip cushioned EVA deck pad for comfort and secure footing. It also includes a front storage platform with bungee cords to secure personal items. The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft includes the Island Connect Accessory, which allows you to connect multiple paddle boards together to create a floating island for socializing. It also features a unique geometry designed for yoga and adventure. The Flow focuses on standard storage, while the LoungeBoard offers unique connectivity options.
Which Pelican Paddle Board Fits You
Solo paddler seeking distance and glide
The Flow 106 measures 10.6 feet long and 32 inches wide. Its greater length provides better tracking and glide for longer trips. Weighing 46 pounds, it is heavier than the inflatable option, but the rigid Ram-X construction offers a traditional, stable ride for solo use on calm waters.
Couples or yoga practitioners needing stability
The LoungeBoard 9ft features a wide 39-inch profile and a 400-pound weight capacity. This allows two adults to share the board comfortably. The drop-stitch construction ensures rigidity when inflated. Its unique geometry enhances balance, making it ideal for yoga, lounging, or shared recreational paddling sessions.
User prioritizing easy transport and storage
At just 19.5 pounds, the LoungeBoard 9ft is significantly lighter than the Flow 106. As an inflatable SUP, it deflates for compact storage. This makes it easier to carry and store in small spaces. The included bag and pad add to its convenience for users with limited garage or trunk space.
The products compared
Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP
Best for: durable recreational paddling on calm water
- Board Length
- 10.6 ft
- Board Width
- 32"
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth
- Style
- Deck
- Dimensions
- 120 × 32 × 0.1 inches
- Weight
- 46 pounds
View on Amazon: Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP Affiliate link
The Pelican Flow 106 is a hardshell recreational paddle board built from durable Ram-X material. It measures 10.6 feet long and 32 inches wide, offering a stable platform for beginners. The board weighs 46 pounds and includes a cushioned EVA deck pad for grip. You get four molded handles and a center recessed handle for easier transport. It also features a front bungee storage area and a 5-inch flexible rubber fin for better tracking.
Pros
- Built with high-impact resistant Ram-X material
- Includes 4 molded handles plus a center recessed handle
- Features an anti-slip cushioned EVA deck pad
- Has a front bungee storage platform
- Comes with a 5-inch flexible rubber fin
Cons
- Weighs 46 pounds, which is heavy for one person to carry
- Fixed 5-inch fin offers less adjustability than removable options
- Hardshell design requires more storage space than inflatables
Good fit if
- You want a durable board that resists impacts
- You need stable width for recreational paddling
- You prefer a board with multiple carrying handles
Skip if
- You need a lightweight board for frequent transport
- You require adjustable fin configurations
- You have limited storage space for hardboards
Verdict: Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP is a sturdy option for paddlers who prioritize durability and stability over portability. It fits those who can handle its 46-pound weight and have space for a hardshell board.
Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP
Best for: shared yoga and stable recreational paddling
- Board Length
- 9'
- Board Width
- 39"
- Weight Capacity
- 400 lb
- Construction
- Inflatable
- Activity
- Yoga
- Dimensions
- 108 × 39 × 0.1 inches
View on Amazon: Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP Affiliate link
This 9-foot inflatable SUP features a 39-inch width for exceptional stability. With a 400 lb weight capacity, it comfortably accommodates two adults. The drop-stitch construction ensures rigidity, while the included Island Connect accessory allows you to link boards together. It is designed for yoga and recreational use, offering a spacious platform for shared water activities.
Pros
- 39-inch width provides high stability
- 400 lb weight capacity supports two adults
- Includes Island Connect for linking boards
- Drop-stitch construction maintains rigidity
Cons
- 19.5 lb weight is heavy for single transport
- Inflatable design requires pumping time
- No hardshell rigidity for high-speed performance
Good fit if
- You want a stable board for yoga
- You need a platform for two people
- You prefer the convenience of inflation
Skip if
- You prioritize lightweight portability
- You need a rigid hardshell for racing
- You plan to paddle alone frequently
Verdict: Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP offers a wide, stable platform ideal for shared yoga or leisure paddling. Its high capacity and linking feature make it a practical choice for couples or groups seeking a relaxed experience on calm waters.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP | Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP |
|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 10.6 ft | 9' |
| Board Width | 32" | 39" |
| Weight Capacity | not stated | 400 lb |
| Construction | not stated | Inflatable |
| Activity | not stated | Yoga |
| Target Audience | Adults, Youth | not stated |
| Style | Deck | not stated |
| Dimensions | 120 × 32 × 0.1 inches | 108 × 39 × 0.1 inches |
| Weight | 46 pounds | 19.5 pounds |
| Size | 10.6 ft | 9 ft |
| Color | White | Blue |
| Model | FAA10P303-00 | FLG09P104 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pelican Flow 106 hardshell or inflatable?
The Pelican Flow 106 is a hardshell paddle board. It is constructed from rigid Ram-X material rather than air-filled components. This design provides a traditional, solid feel underfoot. You will need adequate storage space for its fixed shape and a vehicle capable of carrying its 46-pound weight.
Which Pelican board is lighter to carry?
The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP is significantly lighter. It weighs 19.5 pounds, making it easy to lift and transport alone. In comparison, the Flow 106 hardshell weighs 46 pounds. You should choose the LoungeBoard if portability and ease of handling are your primary concerns.
Which board offers more width for stability?
The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP offers greater width. It measures 39 inches across, providing a very stable platform. The Flow 106 hardshell is 32 inches wide. If you prioritize a wider stance for yoga or beginner confidence, the LoungeBoard’s extra width is the practical advantage.
Can the Pelican LoungeBoard link with other boards?
Yes, the Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP features a linking capability. This allows you to connect it to other compatible boards for group use. The Flow 106 hardshell does not mention this feature. This makes the LoungeBoard a better choice for couples or shared recreational sessions.
Which board is better for longer distances?
The Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP is better for distance. Its 10.6-foot length aids in tracking and gliding through the water. The LoungeBoard is shorter at 9 feet. You will likely achieve better efficiency and speed on longer trips with the longer Flow 106 model.
Is the Pelican Flow 106 suitable for yoga?
The Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP is not specifically designed for yoga. Its primary focus is durable recreational paddling. The LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP is explicitly built for shared yoga activities. You should select the LoungeBoard if you plan to practice poses or need a wider, softer surface.
What color options are available for these models?
The Pelican Flow 106 Hardshell SUP is available in white. The Pelican LoungeBoard 9ft Inflatable SUP comes in blue. These are the standard color specifications provided for each model. Your choice may depend on your aesthetic preference or visibility needs on the water.