Star Phase 10.6

Star Phase 10.6 (front) and NRS Thrive 10.8 (back)

Recently we received a small batch of Star Phase 10.6 SUPs, these are a mid-range paddle board that MSRP for $789.00. The Phase is set up with a single fin, measuring 10’6” x 34” x5”, with an upper weight limit of 200lbs. Here are my impressions on its maiden voyage on the Rio Grande.

This Phase 10.6 comes with a 9” fin, but for the paddle on the Rio Grande I used a standard NRS 5” fin. I weigh in at about 165 lbs somewhere close to the sweet spot for this boards recommended weight range. While paddling I covered 2 miles of river with several riffles and pools. The first thing I noticed about the board was the glide that it had with just a minimal effort of paddling. This board is an all-around board design, so it has a little nose rocker and progressively flattens along the board as you get closer to the tail. Pivot turns were also effortless even without a stomp pad, due to the fact the board only weighs 15 lbs.

While paddling I did notice the absence of the Axis Technology acrylic stiffeners used on the NRS Thrive boards, but the flex was minimal on all but the heaviest of strokes. For a mid-range board, I expect some cost savings measures and this is one that is ok with me. I also found that while paddling the board responded well to subtle stokes like side slips and it accelerated nicely.

Overall, I am really impressed with this board and how well it handles on the water. If you are an average sized paddler this is a great board for what New Mexico has to offer.