AQUA MARINA CORAL 10’2 2021 TEST REVIEW

Verdict:

The Coral is designed to fit the frame of female paddlers and at 31” wide is going to promote better technique and tracking than an unnecessarily wide board. We’re impressed with the premium deck grip and the shoulder carry-strap is a very nice touch. This Coral is versatile and fun; it hops on to a wave nicely and will tour all day without you feeling like you’re fighting for balance. Quick hat tip for the backpack formed, functional backpack too.

Overview:

The 10’2 Coral has a sleek outline and though it tops a modest 31” at its widest point there’s a noticeable sweep-in towards the nose and tail which lend it a classic longboard style. 4.7” is a fairly low sidewall which continues the low-profile. The deck grip is premium with its diamond tread pattern and tail kick.
Two d-rings are fixed on the rail to take the supplied shoulder strap – a clever feature for hiking in to spots with an inflated board. You can also fit a kayak-style seat via two more d-rings toward the tail.
A forward cargo bungee is up front, although there is no tow point you could easily tow from these d-rings.

Brand Claim:

Meet our most fabulous board of 2021 – CORAL. A ladies-specific all-around board designed for all levels of female riders. You will love it at first glance for its unique colour design that makes you easily stand out on any beach.

By conjoining the Drop Stitch Light Technology with our signature HF Welding Technology, CORAL is significantly light without compromising on stiffness. With added D-rings on the rail for shoulder strap, carrying this 8.6kg board is effortless.

Performance:
Aqua Marina have billed the Coral as an all-rounder but its longboard aesthetic does carry nicely into small surf for an inflatable and the tail-kick is a decent sensory aid when you’re stepping back over the fin.

The shoulder strap is a very welcome addition. It frees the hand up and solves portage issues in strong winds.
When all variables are controlled for, paddler for paddler, women tend to find balance in the early stages of SUP easier than men. It’s great that Aqua Marina have recognised this and are providing a narrower board that will provide the right amount of challenge and potential for development for female paddlers; challenge after all is what makes SUP interesting.

The proportions of the Coral are sensible; boards that are too big for the paddler may feel great on day one but they limit development and the conditions that can be paddled in. The Coral’s sleeker template will give paddler’s an edge over the standard 10’6 x 32” plus in many situations without the extra commitment of going to a 12’6 x 30” tourer. Women looking to step away from a bulky all-rounder or even those after their first board this summer should give the Coral a close look.

www.aquamarina.com

Vital Stats:

Length: 10’2

Width: 31”

Thickness: 4.7”

Volume: 230 litres

Weight: 8.6 kg

Fin: 9” centre

Main photo: Courtesy of Aqua Marina