Since our inception in 2016, we’ve reviewed more than 100 paddle boards, and the Decathlon Itiwit Racing has certainly caught our attention.
As a top-performing racing board, this inflatable SUP caters to advanced and professional paddlers, offering features like an ultra-slim design, reinforced nose and kick pad, and state-of-the-art accessories.
Ready to see what sets it apart from the rest? Let’s dive into our Decathlon Itiwit Racing review.
Table of Contents
📊 Data & Facts
| Board Type | Inflatable (iSUP) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Decathlon |
| Skill Level | Advanced, Professionals |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Intended Use | Race |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | approx. 100 kg (220 lbs) |
| Length | 427 cm (14′) |
| Width | 69 cm (27″) |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6″) |
| Volume* (estimated) | 310 Liters |
| Weight | 12 kg (26.4 lbs) |
| Accessories | User manual, SUP backpack, Racing fin, Coiled leash, Repair patches |
🔄 How did the Decathlon Itiwit Racing change over time?
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing series has undergone several changes, evolving from its initial R500 model.
- Models: The Itiwit Racing series now includes a narrower 14′ x 25″ version and a shorter 12’6 x 26″ model.
- Features: The series incorporates new features like reinforced nose and tail, carbon stringers, and a new valve system in its construction technology.
- Design: The boards now feature a more streamlined design and additional features like an Action-Cam mount and kick pad.
👍👎 Pro & Con
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Detailed information on materials used
- Sturdy construction with carbon stringers
- Innovative elements (reinforced nose, tail edge, new valve system, etc.)
- Kick pad for improved maneuverability
- Three carry handles and storage net with strap
Cons
- No paddle and SUP pump included in the package
- Not always available
🛠 Built & Material
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing 14′ is constructed using woven drop-stitch technology, which involves densely connected composite threads providing exceptional stability to the board. The outer layer consists of UV-resistant PVC fused with the fabric shell of the core via pressure and heat, creating an inseparable bond.
The board features carbon stringers that help reinforce and stabilize its construction, resulting in better overall stiffness. While the board is lightweight, the carbon stringers do add some weight, which could impact transport and handling for some users.
The use of the woven drop-stitch material, carbon reinforcements, and an additional PVC layer on the nose and tail distinguishes the Decathlon Itiwit Racing from many alternative models. The resulting board is lightweight, durable, and offers excellent performance on the water.
⚖️ Weight Limit
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing series comes in three different sizes, each with its own weight limit:
- 14′ x 27″: 100 kg (220 lbs)
- 14′ x 25″: 90 kg (198 lbs)
- 12’6 x 26″: 80 kg (176 lbs)
These limits seem realistic based on our experience with inflatable SUP boards. It’s essential not to push your board to its maximum weight limit, as it may lose its shape and riding characteristics.
The recommended weight ranges for optimal use are as follows for each size of the Decathlon Itiwit Racing series:
- 14′ x 27″: 70-100 kg (155-220 lbs)
- 14′ x 25″: 60-90 kg (132-198 lbs)
- 12’6 x 26″: 50-80 kg (110-176 lbs)
🏄♂️ Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing series is specifically designed for experienced paddlers who are looking for high performance and speed on the water. The narrow, streamlined silhouette of the racing boards is not suitable for beginners, as it requires a good level of balance and skill to maneuver.
The boards are designed for competitive racing, where high speeds and good tracking are crucial. The different sizes cater to various paddlers looking for the perfect balance of stability and speed:
- 14′ x 27″: Ideal for experienced paddlers seeking stability and speed – great for long-distance races or advanced touring.
- 14′ x 25″: For experienced paddlers who prioritize speed – suitable for intense racing and training sessions.
- 12’6 x 26″: A more compact option for those seeking a racing board with improved maneuverability – excellent for shorter races or paddlers who value agility.
Each board in the Decathlon Itiwit Racing series features a single racing fin, which enhances the board’s tracking and reduces water resistance for faster speeds. The boards also come with a kickpad at the rear, allowing paddlers to make quick pivot turns when needed.
🎨 Design
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing boards feature a sleek and modern design that showcases their high-performance capabilities. The boards predominantly feature grey and black colors, with accents of bright orange on the nose and white detailing on the tail.
The deck pad is divided into different areas with varying textures to provide optimal grip and stability for riders.
⭐ Features
- Deckpad with Kickpad: The Decathlon Itiwit Racing board features an EVA foam deckpad designed with a double texture for efficient water drainage and grip. The deckpad has been extended towards the rear to incorporate the valve, allowing more room for paddlers.
- 3 Carry Handles: The board comes with three carry handles for easy transportation. The central handle is designed for smooth portability, while the two additional handles provide extra support when needed.
- Racing Fin: The Decathlon Itiwit Racing board includes a removable racing fin that allows for easy installation and removal. This shark-shaped fin helps in easier navigation and stability during the ride.
- Reinforced Nose and Tail: The board’s nose and tail are reinforced with an additional layer of PVC, providing extra durability and stiffness for better performance on the water.
- Free Loop: At the rear, there is a white loop for attaching the provided coiled leash (spiral safety line).
- Cargo Net: To securely store equipment or provisions, a small, flexible deck net is attached in the front area with 2 loops. The orange strap also provides the option to securely fasten a bottle. This design is quite exceptional. To protect your belongings from water damage, it is recommended to use a dry bag.
- Action-Cam Mount: A mount at the front of the board is designed for attaching an action camera, ideal for capturing your paddling adventures.
- Innovative Valve System: The Decathlon Itiwit Racing board features a unique valve system compatible with standard SUP pumps, allowing for easy inflation and deflation.
🎒 Accessory
- Decathlon Itiwit Racing Instruction Manual: A detailed guide on setting up and using the Decathlon Itiwit Racing board is included with your purchase.
- Decathlon Itiwit Racing SUP Backpack: The backpack is designed for convenient storage and transportation of your board. It features a large main compartment, padded handles, and straps for comfortable carrying.
- Decathlon Itiwit Racing Removable Fin: The large, removable racing fin is included for enhanced navigation and stability during your ride.
- Decathlon Itiwit Racing Coiled Leash: The spiral safety leash can be securely fastened around your ankle or below the knee, keeping the board close in case you fall into the water.
- Decathlon Itiwit Racing Repair Patches: Two repair patches are included for fixing minor damages on your board. Note that the necessary adhesive must be purchased separately.
💬 FAQ
How long does it take to inflate the Decathlon Itiwit Racing?
Inflating the Decathlon Itiwit Racing typically takes around 5-10 minutes, though this may vary according to the board size and pump used.
What pressure should I inflate the Decathlon Itiwit Racing to?
The recommended inflation pressure for the Decathlon Itiwit Racing is 17 PSI for optimal performance.
Is the Decathlon Itiwit Racing good for beginners?
No, the Decathlon Itiwit Racing is not suitable for beginners, as its narrow and streamlined design requires a good level of balance and skill for optimal maneuverability.
What’s the weight limit of the Decathlon Itiwit Racing?
The weight limits for the Decathlon Itiwit Racing are: 14′ x 27″ at 220 lbs, 14′ x 25″ at 198 lbs, and 12’6″ x 26″ at 176 lbs.
Conclusion
The Decathlon Itiwit Racing series is an excellent choice for advanced and professional paddlers seeking performance, speed, and durability.
Constructed with woven drop-stitch technology and carbon reinforcements, these boards are lightweight and sturdy.
Available in three different sizes, the Itiwit Racing caters to various skill levels and needs.
Despite the lack of an included pump and paddle, the Decathlon Itiwit Racing boards deliver impressive value and performance in the mid-range price category.
If you’re in search of a top-performing racing SUP for competitive events or intense training sessions, the Decathlon Itiwit Racing series should be on your radar.
