Since starting our blog in 2016, we’ve thoroughly reviewed over 100 paddle boards, and the Penguin Coast Runner has caught our attention.
Although it has a few minor drawbacks, this board sets high standards with its impressive features, top-quality construction, and exceptional accessories designed for advanced paddlers seeking a touring board.
Let’s dive into our Penguin Coast Runner review.
One thing up front: the Penguin Coast Runner is not on sale any more. This page now does two jobs. Directly below we name the three products we would buy in its place today, each with the reason it fits, and further down our original test stays online in full, because that is where our judgement came from.
Better alternatives to the Penguin Coast Runner
Penguin Watersports has closed, so nothing from that range can be bought any more, whatever the offer says.
| Model | Key spec | Best for | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penguin Coast Runnerour original test | See the test below | The product this page was written about | No longer sold |
| DAMA 11 ft ISUP | 11 ft x 33 in x 6 in | A paddler plus gear, or a paddler plus a dog | Amazon |
| iTAOSTAR Lead L03D 11 ft | 11 ft x 33 in | Paddlers who want one board for lake, river and light chop | Amazon |
| iROCKER Blackfin Model X 7.0 | Blackfin Model X 7.0 | Paddlers moving up from their first cheap board | Amazon |
1. DAMA 11 ft ISUP
Why it is here: The all round board the Coast Runner was.
Eleven feet is the size most paddlers settle on once the first season is over, because it keeps the stability of a wide board but stops wandering off course with every stroke.
- Size11 ft x 33 in x 6 in
- Capacity350 lb
- SetupAbout 10 minutes
- ExtrasCamera mount, extra D rings
Best for: A paddler plus gear, or a paddler plus a dog.
DAMA builds an 11 footer on the same beginner formula: wide, thick, 350 lb of capacity, and a complete accessory set in the box. The extra length is what makes it hold a line.Strengths
- Longer hull glides better than a 10 footer
- 350 lb capacity
- Camera mount and extra D rings
Weaknesses
- A foot longer means a bigger bag to carry
Storage is the trade off. Rolled up it is noticeably bulkier than a 10 ft 6 board, which matters in a small car boot.
2. iTAOSTAR Lead L03D 11 ft
Why it is here: Same size class, better fittings.
This is the size we recommend most often when someone asks for one board that will still fit in the second season.
- Size11 ft x 33 in
- Capacity410 lb
- Fins5 removable, 3 centre and 2 side
- Warranty3 years
Best for: Paddlers who want one board for lake, river and light chop.
Eleven by thirty three inches is the middle ground most riders end up on: stable enough for a beginner, narrow enough to keep moving. iTAOSTAR adds a five fin set and a 100 L backpack.Strengths
- 410 lb capacity
- Five fins to match conditions
- Complete kit with 100 L backpack
Weaknesses
- Five fins sound better than they paddle, most people use three
The fin choice is a nice extra rather than a reason to buy: the standard three fin setup covers almost everything a recreational paddler does.
3. iROCKER Blackfin Model X 7.0
Why it is here: The stiff option, since Penguin’s shop is gone.
Our upgrade pick on this page. If the board being replaced was already the second one, jumping another price class solves the complaint most people have after a season, which is softness.
- SeriesBlackfin Model X 7.0
- RailsCarbon rail stiffening
- SeamsWelded
- Mounts8 action mounts, 20 D rings
Best for: Paddlers moving up from their first cheap board.
The Blackfin is iROCKER’s stiff line: a carbon rail around the board, welded seams as standard and mounting points everywhere. On the water the difference from a budget board is the lack of flex underfoot.Strengths
- Carbon rail makes it noticeably stiffer
- Welded seams throughout
- Huge accessory ecosystem
Weaknesses
- Costs several times what a budget board costs
It is deliberately not a first board. Anyone still deciding whether the sport sticks should spend a quarter of this and see.
Our original test of the Penguin Coast Runner
Data & Facts
| Board Type | Inflatable (iSUP) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Penguin |
| Skill Level | Intermediate |
| Price Range | Upper Mid-range |
| Intended Use | Touring |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | 130 kg (290 lbs) |
| Length | 381 cm (12'6") |
| Width | 79 cm (31") |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6") |
| Volume* (estimated) | 250 Liters |
| Weight | 12.5 kg (27.6 lbs) |
| Accessories | SUP Rucksack-Trolley, Double-Action Air Pump with Pressure Gauge, Coiled-Leash, Single Fin (US-Box-System), Repair Kit incl. Valve Key, 2021: Shoulder Strap + Fin Pin |
How did the Penguin Coast Runner change over time?
The Penguin Coast Runner has seen several updates and improvements since its initial release.
- New Design: The 2021 model features an updated design, with a combination of two turquoise tones and a dark red shade in the tail area. The sporty stripe pattern on the nose and the redesigned deck pad enhance its visual appeal.
- Action-Cam Mount: The 2021 model comes with an Action-Cam mount and an additional D-ring to attach your GoPro or other compatible action cameras for capturing your adventures.
- Shoulder Strap: An added shoulder strap is now included in the 2021 version, providing an easy and comfortable way to carry the board. The strap can be attached to the two D-rings on the sides of the board.
- Improved Backpack Comfort: The 2021 model features an upgraded backpack, with better padding in the back area for enhanced carrying comfort.
- Fin with Pin: The new version also comes with a fin pin, allowing you to convert the single fin into a convenient click-fin for quick and easy installation.
Pro & Con
Pros
- High-quality construction with carbon-reinforced rails
- Great board for advanced paddlers
- Equipped with a bungee-cord cargo net
- Excellent tracking and stability
- Slip-resistant deck pad
- Quality accessories included
Cons
- On the higher end of the price spectrum
- The paddle is not included in the package
Built & Material
The Penguin Coast Runner boasts an advanced construction known as Fusion Carbon Hybrid Technology. This involves reinforcing the board's rails with an additional carbon layer, providing increased rigidity and durability.
Additionally, a stringer runs longitudinally down the board's center, further enhancing stability. The Coast Runner's seams are not glued but instead welded with heat and pressure, resulting in seamless material transitions.
This fusion technique contributes to the board's 12.5 kg weight, indicating a high level of robustness and longevity in its material quality. In general, there is a negative relationship between weight and stiffness: while more robust boards tend to have higher stiffness, they also have a higher weight, making transportation more difficult.
However, the Penguin Coast Runner’s carbon-reinforced construction delivers both impressive rigidity and a manageable weight for transport.
Weight Limit
The Penguin Coast Runner has an official maximum paddler weight limit of 130 kg (286 lbs). This inflatable SUP is specifically designed for advanced users who are interested in touring.
With a length of 381 cm (12'6"), a width of 79 cm (31"), and a thickness of 15 cm (6"), it offers a good balance of stability and speed for extended trips on the water.
Based on our experience, we recommend the following weight ranges for optimal use:
- 70-100 kg (154-220 lbs): Ideal for maintaining stability and performance while touring.
- 100-130 kg (220-286 lbs): Suitable for heavier paddlers or those looking to carry extra gear, such as a child or a pet. However, the board may start to lose some of its preferred riding characteristics as it approaches its maximum weight limit.
Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
The Penguin Coast Runner is primarily designed for touring and is best suited for advanced stand-up paddlers who want to cover longer distances with greater ease and efficiency. Its elongated-shaped pointed nose and large central fin provide excellent tracking and straight-line performance.
These characteristics make it particularly suitable for longer trips across calm lakes, rivers with gentle currents, and coastal waters with small waves. With a width of 79 cm (31"), the Coast Runner also offers a decent level of stability, allowing for comfortable paddling in various conditions.
Although it is not specifically designed for tackling rough waters or surfing, its slight nose rocker enables it to glide over small waves and chop with ease.
Overall, the Penguin Coast Runner delivers a top performance on the water, with its narrow board shape and pointed nose reducing water resistance, making it easier to maintain higher speeds over longer distances. This, combined with the board's excellent tracking and straight-line performance, make it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade from an all-round SUP to a more specialized touring option.
Design
The Penguin Coast Runner features a sporty and eye-catching 2021 design, combining two shades of turquoise with a contrasting dark red on the rear of the board.
The most eye-catching element on the top is the newly designed deck pad, which has a large "P" logo and is decorated with wave-like dark green patterns on the sides.
The side surfaces showcase the board's features and specifications in a lighter hue. The red rear section adds an extra touch of flair to the board. In addition, the central stringer (reinforcement strip) stands out in color and adds a visual highlight next to the Penguin logo.
Overall, the Penguin Coast Runner offers a sporty yet harmonious design.
Features
- Deck pad: The top of the Coast Runner is covered with approximately 75% of an EVA deck pad. The EVA deck pad is a special coating that provides a secure stance even when wet. In this case, it's a diamond-patterned standing area that offers excellent grip on the board.
- D-ring: A large D-ring is located on the tail of the board, to which the included leash can be attached.
- Cargo net: The touring board is equipped with a large cargo net, made of a bungee cord attached to six D-rings. The net can be used for transporting gear, provisions (e.g., a water bottle), or a dry bag for SUP.
- Carrying handle: A carrying handle is located in the center of the board, making it easy to transport. The Penguin Coast Runner's handle is covered with a neoprene sleeve for added comfort.
- New features for the 2021 model: The latest version of the Penguin Coast Runner comes with an action-cam mount, three additional D-rings for attaching a shoulder strap, and a fin pin for quickly transforming the single fin into a click-fin.
Accessory
The Penguin Coast Runner package includes a SUP backpack-trolley, double-action air pump with pressure gauge, coiled leash, single-fin (US-box system), repair kit with valve key, and for the 2021 model, a shoulder strap and fin pin.
The paddle shown in the picture is not included in the delivery. It is the Penguin Gold paddle (made from 100% carbon), which is available separately in the online shop of Penguin Watersports.
- Penguin Coast Runner Manual: A comprehensive guide that covers the setup and usage of the Penguin Coast Runner is included for easy reference.
- Penguin Coast Runner SUP Backpack-Trolley: This high-quality backpack offers ample space (dimensions: 30 cm x 40 cm x 90 cm) for storing the rolled-up board, accessories, and additional gear. The backpack comes equipped with durable wheels for easy transportation and features a heavily padded back section and wide, adjustable straps for maximum comfort during longer treks. The 2021 model has improved padding for even better carrying comfort.
- Penguin Coast Runner 3-Piece Carbon Paddle (not included): Although not included in the package, the separately sold Penguin Gold Paddle boasts a 100% carbon construction, weighing just 800 grams, and is adjustable between 180 cm and 220 cm. Its dihedral blade ensures efficient water displacement and swift propulsion.
- Penguin Coast Runner Dual-action Pump: The package includes a switchable double-action pump with a pressure gauge, allowing for easy and quick inflation of the board. The pump operates both during the upward and downward strokes and can be switched to single-action mode as the pressure increases to make pumping easier.
- Penguin Coast Runner Single Fin: Featuring a US-box system, the large, dolphin-shaped fin ensures excellent tracking and can be easily secured using a fin screw and plate.
- Penguin Coast Runner Coiled Leash: A 3-meter coiled leash is included to keep the board close in case you fall into the water. It can be securely fastened around your ankle or below the knee.
- Penguin Coast Runner Repair Kit: The repair kit contains essential components like color-matched PVC patches and a valve wrench for minor repairs and maintenance of your board.
- Penguin Coast Runner 2021 Additions: New accessories exclusive to the 2021 model include a shoulder strap for easier carrying, a fin pin for quick fin attachment, and an action cam holder with an additional D-ring for added convenience.
FAQ
How long does it take to inflate the Penguin Coast Runner?
Inflating the Penguin Coast Runner takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the user's pumping speed.
What pressure should I inflate the Penguin Coast Runner to?
Inflate the Penguin Coast Runner to a recommended pressure of 15 PSI for optimal rigidity and performance.
Is the Penguin Coast Runner good for beginners?
The Penguin Coast Runner is best suited for intermediate and advanced paddlers, as it is primarily designed for touring and covering longer distances.
What's the weight limit of the Penguin Coast Runner?
The Penguin Coast Runner has a maximum paddler weight limit of 130 kg (286 lbs). Based on our experience, we recommend
70-100 kg (154-220 lbs) for maintaining stability and performance while touring.
Conclusion
The Penguin Coast Runner is an excellent choice for advanced paddlers seeking a high-quality touring board.
Its carbon-reinforced construction and Fusion Carbon Hybrid Technology assure durability and rigidity.
The board's design and riding characteristics make it ideal for long-distance paddling on calm waters.
The 2021 updates, such as the action-cam mount and improved backpack, enhance the overall experience.
Though on the higher end of the price spectrum and without an included paddle, the Penguin Coast Runner is worth considering for its impressive features and performance capabilities.
Penguin's naming makes the range hard to read at a glance. The Sir and Lady Lancer is the family pair, the X-Lancer the stiffer version, and the Competition the one built to be quick.
