O’SHEA 11’2 GT HPX TEST REVIEW 2024
Verdict
The O’Shea GT HPx stands well apart from the crowded ‘cookie-cutter’ end of the inflatable tourer market. This board is purpose built for adventures from its template through to the reinforced handles and leash points. It tracks great but we were especially impressed with the handling and manoeuvrability; with its rigid performance this makes the GT HPx an excellent long-haul explorer of rocky crenulated coastlines.
Overview
The GT HPx carries what we call a classic tourer outline: a slow sweep runs from the midpoint to the nose, and again to the tail which is a drawn-in square shape. This board is ultra-lightweight and super stiff, weighing only 8kg, and comes with a 5-year warranty. It features state-of-the-art, high-temperature heat-welded seams, making it ultra-compact, easily foldable, and transportable. The package includes a high-quality 3-piece adjustable carbon-hybrid paddle and weighs a total of 11.1Kg. We were impressed to see the GT HPx has a reinforced tow and leash eye. It comes equipped with an O’Shea HP6 Triple Action Power Pump, RMS-Removable Fin System, and a diamond die-cut EVA deck grip for optimal non-slip performance. It also includes the original H3 Valve and a spacious O’Shea Pro Backpack designed for easy packing, along with an O’Shea Coil Leash. The board is CAD designed and tested by Farrel O’Shea himself.
Brand Claim
“Introducing the O’Shea GT HPx Inflatable SUP – the perfect touring board for the avid adventurer. Now with state-of-the-art, high-temperature heat-welded seams for a stronger seam and enhanced cosmetic finish.
Made with our revolutionary Ultra Light HPx, this touring board is 20% lighter than its Fusion or MSL construction counterparts, making it super easy to transport and store. The design incorporates an efficient, yet stable rocker for a smooth and effortless ride glide, perfect for any river, lake, or ocean excursion.
The board’s easily foldable and transportable construction makes it a great addition to the iSUP touring board market. Its package weight, including the carbon hybrid paddle and pump, is only 11.1kg, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Despite the ultra-light construction, durability is maintained, making it a game-changer in the world of touring boards.”
Performance
Pumping up, details soon reveal the GT HPx’s pedigree, i.e. the super-reinforced leash and tow points. These are the first things we look for on a board for exploring remote coastlines. The three carry handles and dual cargo bungees continue the rugged utility theme.
We love the shape of this board: plenty of space around the mid-deck with a nice taper in towards the nose and tail. The sweep in at the tail helps the GT HPx handle downwind runs and seas on the rear-quarter better than boards with a broad tail. You get less ‘bumping’ and unexpected lift. The GT HPx will also surf in nicely on a beach break runner when it’s time to land.
If you have goals of adventure and expedition and want a compact tourer that will perform across a wide spectrum of conditions, and remain strong and durable season after season, get GT HPx on your short list. There are lots of random, attractively priced boards out there but they don’t carry the design and performance DNA of the O’Shea line up.
Vital Stats
Price: £849
Length: 11’2
Width: 32”
Thickness: 6”
Volume: 270 litres
Weight: (Package) 11.1 kg
Fin: US Centre Touring