REDWOOD FUNBOX PRO 12’6 X 29
REDWOOD FUNBOX PRO 12’6 X 29 TEST REVIEW
Verdict:
A compact feeling, lightweight rigid tourer with very practical dimensions for those looking for all-water capabilities or just a more secure, yet efficient board for general paddling. The Funbox holds its composure so well in rough water that you’re likely to forget, or at least overlook, that you’re on an inflatable. An ideal step up from your entry level cruiser that you’ll never want to part with.
Overview:
Redwood Paddle might be a relatively new brand to some but the company has roots stretching back to the origins of the sport, the name coming from the red cedar wood that founder Chris DeFrance used in the design of his early handmade paddles. The Funbox comes packaged as you’d expect from an established brand. Smart roller bag and high pressure pump, US fin box, and the option of a 3 piece carbon travel paddle for just an extra 100 Euros; the direct to market savings for the consumer are definitely appreciable.
Brand Claim:
Do you dream of a SUP race board, which is easy to store and transport? Look no further, here it is! Incredibly rigid, this is a perfect board for anyone who wants to push their limits in SUP racing and touring. Ideal for racing, downwind, recreational and more competitive paddling
Performance:
The Funbox Pro is a pretty striking board when you unfurl it from its slick roller backpack, the contrasting red and white stripes lending a hotrod feel to things. It swiftly bellows into shape and at 15psi becomes satisfyingly crisp and shell like; PVC Dyneema is used to shave weight (Redwood claim 30% over traditional construction) and promote stiffness. 12’6 x 29 is a great formula for a seafaring board – small enough to fit into the undulations of a bucking sea surface but without sacrificing on forward momentum. The tightly composed Funbox Pro feels agile and responsive allowing you to revel in the challenge rather than chore of all terrain paddling. If you have a spirit for adventure and would be navigating a rocky, swirling coastline one day, tapping away on a downwinder the next, and then entering some club racing, I think this would be very good companion for you. This board would also suit paddlers who want to step up from the ‘my first inflatable’ lozenge shape, and even first timers carrying a bit of experience from other sports who don’t want to hit a glass ceiling after two months. If you’re after a capable all rounder, the performance and packaging of this board alone (I definitely recommend checking out the 3-piece carbon paddle option) should put it on your watch list, but throw in the 699 Euro price tag and it soon moves up to ‘most wanted’ classification.