AQUATONE OCEAN 14’0 TEST REVIEW
Verdict
The sleek, fast Ocean could be just what you’ve been waiting for. This inflatable 14’0 x 23” racer is designed without compromise. It accelerates quickly and holds a comfortable high-top speed. The Ocean is ideal training and travel companion for a competitive racer, or a go-to for anyone with big race ambitions. It goes fast, rolls up small and costs less than £500. We love it.
Overview
Aquatone have really gone for the race circuit with the new Ocean. Double-layer fusion construction saves weight and optimises durability and stiffness. A sharp tail ‘water edge’ reduces turbulent drag. Comes packaged with pump, All-Style paddle, leash, bag.
Brand Claim
The OCEAN 14’0″ is the ultimate race board that is lighter, more responsive and much faster to ride thanks to its revamped design and extra narrow width. The redesigned shape with straighter profile leads to more speed and tracking. The pointy nose combined with an extra narrow 23” deck offers fast acceleration and makes the board perform at the highest level and boosts you to the podium.
Performance
Aquatone have designed the Ocean without compromise. At 23″, it is by far the narrowest 14’0 inflatable we’ve tested. It could be the narrowest of its kind on the market.
The Ocean is fitted with only what you need to race. Simple cargo bungee, carry handle plus two beach start handles and a leash point. The segmented deck pad is an essential sensory aid for buoy turns.
With its high 6″ sides and 23″ beam, the Ocean is clearly not designed to forgive sloppy technique. However, a frequent paddler taking it on flat water for the first time will soon be rewarded with the quick, effortless glide. The Ocean feels like it is sliding over ice.
The skill challenge is refreshing. You may soon wonder if you’ve been riding too wide a board these past years! It feels good to learn again and receive the payoff of increased speed and saved energy.
Step back turns are predictable, owing to the even volume distribution through this long, straight board.
When you up the cadence and power the Ocean holds its composure very well. It’s stiff and converts your paddle force to forward speed. Tracking is great as you’d expect from such a parallel shape.
The Ocean would make an excellent travel or training board for a dedicated racer. You won’t incur skill fade and will stay hotly competitive. If the Ocean was your only race board, you wouldn’t be found wanting either.
Final mention must be the price. For under £500, you get a packaged high-performance racer. The Ocean is breaking barriers in more way than one.
AQUATONE OCEAN 14’0 TEST REVIEW
Vital Stats
Price: £499
Length: 14’0
Width: 23”
Thickness: 6”
Volume: 320 litres
Fin: 9.0 Centre