O’SHEA GTR 12’6 ISUP TEST REVIEW
O’SHEA GTR 12’6 ISUP TEST REVIEW
Verdict
O’Shea’s new lightweight 12’6 offers a fast racy feel in their GTR package, (they also do a 34” wide GTX tourer). This 30” wide, fast tourer in their new ‘Fusion lite” construction felt stiff and very directional. It paddles slightly nose high, easily coping with small waves and cutting comfortably over them. A sleek stiff light, but spritely board at a good value package price.
Overview
The GTR comes with a smart back pack, two way switch pump, leash and 3pc adjustable paddle. O’Shea’s new ‘Fusion Lite’ fused construction gives the GTR a light stiff feel and is easy to roll up. It’s good to see the board came with an English made K4 swept back US Box 24cm race fin as standard. Chunky diamond deck pad and cargo bungees, logo’d webbing handle and HD stainless D-ring under nose complete the fittings.
Brand Claim
O’Shea boards are made exclusively from Korean “Mirasol” drop stitch, which is considered the Rolls Royce of iSUP core fabric. It’s quality that lasts and the best that money can buy. 1000D PVC outer, full double layer rail lap makes a trouble-free belt and braces construction. We think Yellow is the safest yet fun colourway, be seen and stay safe on river, lake or ocean. Ask any old buoy and he’ll tell you! O’Shea boards can be typically used at lower pressures:13 to the recommended 15 psi pressures easily achievable.
Performance
The GTR was the lightest board on test, and initially it felt a touch less stable than the hard boards with its narrow racy nose shape. Once up and moving the O’Shea tracked well in a straight line and felt nimble and quick across the water, it was the fastest inflatable on test. We really liked its glide and ease over chop, it’s so much quicker and sportier than any 10’6 iSUP on the market. This higher nosed tourer/ racer would make so much sense for someone wanting a performance iSUP that they could keep for years, rather than going down the 10’6 route. All in all O’Shea have produced a good quality product refined it to the latest market trends and bought it in at a great value package price.
OTHER BOARDS IN THIS TEST:
• RRD GRANTURISMO 12’6 GT WOOD
• STARBOARD TOURING 12’6 PINETEK