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Since starting our blog in 2016, we have reviewed more than 100 paddle boards, and the CALA Maui 10’8” truly stands out.

Positioned as an environment-friendly choice with a unique and efficient design, this paddleboard caters to beginners seeking a stable all-rounder for their paddling adventures.

However, its premium price tag can be justified by the high-quality materials and top-notch accessories included.

Let’s dive into our CALA Maui 10’8” review.

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

📊 Data & Facts

Board TypeInflatable (iSUP)
BrandCala Boards
Skill LevelBeginner
Price RangeExpensive
Intended UseAllround
Maximum Paddler Weight100 kg (220 lbs)
Length329 cm (10’8″)
Width81 cm (32″)
Thickness15 cm (6″)
Volume* (estimated)280 – 300 Liters
Weight9.6 kg (21.16 lbs)
AccessoriesSUP Trolley-Rucksack
Manual
Double-action Air Pump (switchable)
3-piece Carbon Paddle (steplessly adjustable)
Coiled Leash (spiral safety line) with key compartment
3 removable Fins (Smartlock System)
Repair Kit with valve key

🔄 How did the CALA Maui 10’8” change over time?

The CALA Maui 10’8” has undergone several changes over the past few years.

  • Shape: The nose of the CALA Maui 10’8” evolved from the classic rounded all-rounder shape to a sharper, more pointed design for efficient gliding and better performance on longer distances.
  • Fins: The CALA Maui 10’8” now features a completely removable 2+1 fin setup with the Smartlock System, offering greater maneuverability and a broader range of uses.
  • Materials: The CALA Maui 10’8”’s eco-friendly construction now includes components made from up to 20% seagrass, with sustainability considered throughout the production process.
  • Weight: Thanks to the Fusion technology (HDX Air System Technology), the CALA Maui 10’8” is now even lighter at just 9.6 kg, making it easier to transport and enhancing the overall paddleboarding experience.
  • Design: The CALA Maui 10’8” now features a bright, sporty design with hibiscus flowers and red-blue stripes, embodying the laid-back surfer’s “Hang Loose” lifestyle.
  • Accessories: The CALA Maui 10’8” now comes with a 3-piece carbon paddle, a switchable double-action air pump, a coiled leash, a trolley backpack, and a repair kit with a valve key, making it a comprehensive package for paddleboard enthusiasts.

👍👎 Pro & Con

Pros

  • Eco-friendly production with up to 20% seagrass content
  • Innovative construction technology (Fusion method)
  • Durable and robust material
  • Attractive design
  • Good stability
  • Complete accessory set, including carbon paddle and trolley backpack

Cons

  • Higher purchase price
  • Possible glue residues and print errors on the test board

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

🛠 Built & Material

The CALA Maui 10’8” employs an advanced construction method known as the Fusion Technique. It merges a core made of a single layer of PVC (Single layer) with an outer shell through heat and pressure.

This outer layer is then welded to the core, creating a remarkably stable structure. The interior of the board is reinforced with tightly woven polyester threads (X-Woven-Dropstitch), which provide maximum torsional rigidity.

This Fusion Technique is considered one of the most modern methods and is utilized by other renowned manufacturers, which Cala Boards refers to as “HDX Air System Technology.”

With a weight of only 9.6 kg, the board is considered lightweight in comparison to other boards of the same size, making it easy to transport and enhancing the relaxation aspect of SUP paddling.

By fusing the outer layer with the drop-stitch fabric under heat and pressure, the Fusion Technique aligns with environmental goals by reducing material consumption.

Additionally, the lightweight nature of the board addresses a common criticism in earlier models, making it more comfortable and manageable to transport.

⚖️ Weight Limit

According to Cala Boards, the maximum paddler weight for the CALA Maui 10’8″ is 100 kg (220lbs). However, to ensure the best possible performance and experience while using the paddleboard, we recommend not pushing this weight limit to its maximum.

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

🏄‍♂️ Intended Use & Riding Characteristics

The CALA Maui 10’8″ is a versatile all-rounder, providing a great balance between stability and maneuverability. Its classic round shape, with a slightly pointed nose, makes it suitable for a wide range of paddleboarding activities such as:

  • Leisure paddling on calm water surfaces like lakes and rivers
  • Performing basic moves and turns
  • Exploring small waves and surf conditions
  • Fitness workouts and SUP yoga
  • Short to medium-distance touring, given its improved tracking ability due to the pointed nose

Additionally, the CALA Maui 10’8″ features a fully removable 2+1 fin setup using the Smartlock System. This allows you to choose from:

  • All three fins are installed for maximum stability and maneuverability
  • Only the center fin is installed for better tracking, ideal for touring and high-speed paddling
  • Only the side fins installed when in shallow water conditions

The CALA Maui 10’8″ is particularly appealing to environmentally-conscious paddlers since some of its components are made of up to 20% seagrass. The Fusion technology used in its construction makes it incredibly durable and rigid, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride for paddlers.

🎨 Design

The CALA Maui 10’8″ paddleboard boasts an eye-catching design with a predominantly white background and a striking red silhouette of a traditional Ukulele-playing Hawaiian lady on the nose.

Accents of red and blue Hibiscus flowers give it a distinct Hawaiian vibe reminiscent of the origin of SUP sports, which trace back to Polynesia. Blue and red sports stripes in the middle of the deck pad complete the board’s vibrant appearance.

The combination of colors and patterns makes it an aesthetic standout in a sea of paddleboards.

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

⭐ Features

  • 2+1 Removable Fin Setup (Smartlock System): The CALA Maui 10’8” features a completely removable 2+1 fin setup, using the Smartlock system. This allows for better maneuverability and versatility in different water conditions.
  • EVA Deck Pad: The standing area of the board is covered with a non-slip EVA deck pad, providing extra grip and comfort while paddling. The pad incorporates 20% seagrass content, contributing to the board’s eco-friendliness.
  • Central Carry Handle with Paddle Holder: The board has a neoprene-reinforced central carry handle, making transportation convenient. Attached to the handle is a removable neoprene cuff for securing the paddle during breaks or transportation.
  • Rear Carry Handle: An additional rear carry handle with a strap is located at the back of the board, which also has an attached removable neoprene cuff for securing your paddle.
  • D-Rings for Leash and Accessories: A D-ring at the rear end of the board, integrated into the rubber patch of the valve, allows you to secure your SUP leash or tow another board. An additional D-ring at the front bottom of the board can also be used for anchoring or towing.
  • Cargo Net: A bungee cord cargo net at the front of the board, attached to four D-rings, enables you to securely store your gear, such as a waterproof dry bag or snacks.
  • Action Cam Mount: Document your paddling adventures with an action cam, thanks to the built-in action cam mount located at the front of the board.

🎒 Accessory

  • CALA Maui 10’8” Manual: A comprehensive guide covering the setup, maintenance, and handling of the CALA Maui 10’8” board is included for easy reference.
  • CALA Maui 10’8” SUP Trolley Backpack: This stylish silver trolley backpack is designed to hold the entire equipment comfortably, featuring two spacious compartments, a transparent address pocket, and additional side pouches. The bag also includes padded straps with adjustable chest and waist buckles, ensuring optimal weight distribution. For convenient transportation, the bag has built-in off-road wheels turning it into a trolley to effortlessly maneuver behind you.
  • 3-piece CALA Maui 10’8” Carbon Paddle: This lightweight adjustable paddle (170 cm to 210 cm) is made with a carbon shaft and reinforced nylon blade and handle. Weighing only 775 g, it provides better performance compared to heavier aluminum options.
  • CALA Maui 10’8” Double-action Pump: The provided double-action pump allows for efficient inflation, quickly filling most volume and an easier, single-action mode for higher pressures. Inflating the CALA Maui 10’8” board takes approximately 5-7 minutes for experienced paddlers.
  • 3 Removable CALA Maui 10’8” Fins: These durable fins use a smart-lock system and are easily attached to the board, ensuring enhanced performance and maneuverability. The larger side fins provide greater resistance and stability in the water.
  • CALA Maui 10’8” Coiled Leash: The spiral safety leash is designed to be securely fastened around your ankle or below the knee. This ensures that the board remains close to you in case you fall into the water.
  • CALA Maui 10’8” Repair Kit: The repair kit includes color-matched PVC patches, a valve wrench, and other essential components needed for minor repairs on the board.

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

💬 FAQ

How long does it take to inflate the CALA Maui 10’8”?

Inflating the CALA Maui 10’8” takes approximately 5-7 minutes for experienced paddlers using the provided double-action pump.

What pressure should I inflate the CALA Maui 10’8” to?

The recommended pressure is 15 PSI. This is the standard value for many SUP boards and is approximately equivalent to 1 bar. However, the board can also withstand up to 20 PSI (1.37 bar), which clearly indicates high quality.

Is the CALA Maui 10’8” good for beginners?

The CALA Maui 10’8” is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a stable and versatile all-rounder design, eco-friendly construction, and high-quality accessories.

What’s the weight limit of the CALA Maui 10’8”?

The maximum paddler weight for the CALA Maui 10’8” is 100 kg (220 lbs).

Conclusion

The CALA Maui 10’8” paddleboard is a versatile and eco-friendly option for beginners and intermediate paddlers.

With its lightweight construction, trendy design, and high-quality accessories, it’s worth considering despite the premium price.

Its innovative Fusion Technique and use of seagrass materials contribute to a more environmentally friendly choice.

The board is ideal for various water adventures, including leisure paddling, basic moves, exploring waves, and fitness activities.

In summary, the CALA Maui 10’8” is a top-notch, sustainable paddleboard for paddle enthusiasts seeking quality and performance.

Premium, Eco-friendly Allround Paddleboard for Beginners

CALA Maui 10’8”

Water is Benjamin's element. In 2019, he made his first attempts on a SUP board and since then he's constantly learning. For him, stand-up paddling is a great way to combine a workout and feel relaxed at the same time. The perfect balance to everyday life!

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