Penguin Competition Review and Better Alternatives

Since starting our blog in 2016, we’ve reviewed more than 100 paddle boards, and the Penguin Competition has captured our attention.

Our hands-on experience shows that this board is designed for advanced users and offers impressive performance.

The Penguin Competition provides excellent speed, stiffness, and stability, perfect for racing and touring enthusiasts.

Let’s dive into our Penguin Competition review.

One thing up front: the Penguin Competition 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 Competition

Penguin Watersports has closed. The Competition was a race board, so only real 12.5 and 14 foot hulls are listed below.

1. Beyond Marina 14 ft x 23 in Elite

Why it is here: A real 14 foot race hull, which is what the Competition was.

This is the only board on the page built for speed rather than comfort, and it is here because race boards are what people look for once distance becomes the point.

#1

Beyond Marina 14 ft x 23 in Elite

Closest match

Check price

• Size14 ft x 23 in
• BuildWoven drop stitch, carbon stringers
• In the boxPaddle, coiled leash, fin, repair kit
• UseFlatwater racing

Best for: Paddlers who already race or train for distance.

A proper 14 ft race outline at 23 in wide, stiffened with carbon stringers on deck and underside. Narrow, fast, and unforgiving in the way race boards are.

Strengths

• True race length and width
• Carbon stringers top and bottom
• Race ready kit

Weaknesses

• Twenty three inches is unstable for most riders

Do not buy it as a first board. Below roughly a season of regular paddling, a 23 in hull mostly teaches swimming.

2. Beyond Marina 12.5 ft Racer

Why it is here: Shorter and wider, easier to handle for a first race board.

Between an all round board and a 23 in race hull there is a gap, and this is the board that fills it.

#2

Beyond Marina 12.5 ft Racer

Check price

• Size12.5 ft x 25 in
• Pressure20 PSI
• BuildDual core, welded rail bands, twin stringers
• In the boxPump, paddle, backpack

Best for: Paddlers stepping up to a narrow board for the first time.

The 12.5 by 25 in version is the forgiving side of the race line: narrow enough to be quick, wide enough that a moment of inattention does not end in the water.

Strengths

• Stiff at 20 PSI
• 25 in is forgiving for a race shape
• Complete kit

Weaknesses

• Still narrow enough to demand attention

On choppy open water a beginner will still get tired quickly. That is the nature of a narrow hull, not a fault of this one.

3. Zray R2 Rapid Dual 14 ft

The cheapest honest way into a 14 ft board. It is the step between an all rounder and a real race hull.

#3

Zray R2 Rapid Dual 14 ft

Check price

• Size14 ft x 28 in
• Capacity397 lb
• BuildDouble layer outer skin
• In the boxPaddle, pump, backpack, repair kit

Best for: A first long board, without race board nerves.

Zray puts a 14 ft length on a 28 in platform, which is the width that keeps a long board usable for people who are not racing yet. The double layer skin takes knocks.

Strengths

• Race length at a fair price
• 28 in wide is manageable
• Double layer skin

Weaknesses

• Heavy, and slower than a narrow race hull

Serious racers will find it slow, and it is a lot of board to carry for a casual afternoon.

Our original test of the Penguin Competition

Data & Facts

How did the Penguin Competition change over time?

The Penguin Competition has undergone several changes between its 2020 and 2021 models.

• Design: The 2021 model features a completely redesigned color scheme, now incorporating two shades of turquoise and a yellow tone for a sportier look.
• Features: New features for the 2021 model include an action-cam mount with an additional D-ring, a shoulder strap that attaches to two side-mounted D-rings, and an upgraded backpack-trolley for improved comfort and functionality. The single fin can now be converted to a click fin using the included fin pin.
• Weight: Thanks to the revised material construction, the 2021 Penguin Competition weighs 11.5 kg, which is lighter than the 2020 model.

Pro & Con

Built & Material

The Penguin Competition features innovative construction technology based on Fusion Carbon Hybrid technology, ensuring optimal stiffness and performance for advanced paddlers. This board is constructed using a single-layer drop-stitch method, with additional longitudinal reinforcements (stringers) on the top and bottom of the board for increased stability.

The board also features a double rail system with carbon reinforcement sandwiched between the two rails, offering additional rigidity and stability. The outer rail not only provides an aesthetically pleasing design but also protects the board from abrasion and paddle strikes, ensuring long-lasting durability.

The board's lightweight construction (11.5 kg for the 2021 model) makes it easy to transport and handle, without sacrificing durability or performance. The combination of high-quality materials and advanced construction techniques results in a reliable, high-performance board suitable for advanced paddlers taking part in races and touring adventures.

Weight Limit

The Penguin Competition has an official maximum weight limit of 110 kg (242 lbs) for paddlers. However, for the best performance and optimal experience, we recommend considering an average paddler weight of 90-100 kg (198-220 lbs).

This is because when you're going on longer paddling tours, you'll likely carry additional gear, such as drinks, food, and extra clothing, which can quickly add up in weight.

Intended Use & Riding Characteristics

The Penguin Competition is designed for advanced paddlers seeking high performance, speed, and agility on the water. With its extra-long 427 cm (14') length and sleek 76 cm (30") width, this board is perfect for race and touring purposes.

The board's upward-curved, pointed nose and straight rails ensure excellent straight-line tracking, while the tapered tail allows for agile maneuverability. However, it's important to note that the Penguin Competition is not suitable for beginners due to the board's reduced stability.

Intended primarily for racing and touring, the Penguin Competition is well-suited for ambitious paddlers who are dedicated to achieving high speeds during competitions, extensive tours, or training sessions. Keep in mind that the lack of width and reduced stability make this board less suitable for beginners, who would benefit more from a wider, more stable all-round board.

The Penguin Competition features a single central fin, which not only allows for quick and easy turns but also provides a variety of fin options on the market for fine-tuning the board's performance. This adjustability is particularly important for competitive paddlers who strive for a customized experience on the water.

Design

The Penguin Competition sports a modern design that combines aesthetics with high-performance construction. Its sleek profile is accentuated by a striking combination of various shades of blue. Black and white contrast stripes on the nose and rear of the board, along with orange accents and eye-catching Penguin logos on the top, bottom, and rails, contribute to its sporty and stylish appearance.

The 2021 model of the Penguin Competition features an updated design that includes a refreshing blend of turquoise and yellow tones, a reimagined deck pad, and a more prominent "P" logo on the standing area. Overall, the Penguin Competition showcases a harmonious and visually stunning design that complements its racing capabilities.

Features

• Extended Length and Sleek Design: At 427 cm (14'), the Penguin Competition is over a meter longer than a standard all-round board, making it perfect for advanced paddlers who crave speed and performance during races and touring.

• Ultra-lightweight Construction: Using innovative Fusion Carbon Hybrid technology, the Penguin Competition weighs only 12.17 kg (2021 model: 11.5 kg), providing extreme stiffness without compromising on maneuverability.

• Straight-Line Stability and Extreme Stiffness: The pointed, upwards curving nose and the pin tail, combined with only a single, centrally-attached fin, deliver excellent straight-line stability and responsive turning.

• Deck Pad: The top of the Competition is covered with an EVA deck pad. The EVA deck pad is a special coating that ensures a secure grip on the board even when wet. In this case, it features a diamond embossed surface, providing an excellent grip on the board.
• Cargo Net: An extra-large cargo net spans between six D-rings at the bow. This provides ample space for extensive equipment or a large dry bag.

• D-ring: The included leash is best attached to the single D-ring at the rear. Directly in front of it is the valve for inflation.

• Central Carry Handle: The stylish handle with logo inscription allows easy transport of the board from land to water. If you happen to fall off the board during training, grabbing the board is easily done using this handle. However, the Penguin Competition doesn't feature any additional handles or loops.

The following features have been added completely new to the Penguin Competition 2021:

• Action-Cam Mount: A GoPro or another compatible action camera can be attached to the appropriate mount on the nose. You can capture your adventures in the form of pictures and videos.
• Three additional D-rings: For securing the included carrying strap, the board now features 2 smaller side D-rings. Another one is located at the Action-Cam mount, allowing you to secure the board during a break, for example.
• Fin Pin: With this small pin, you can quickly transform the single fin into a click-fin.

Accessory

The Penguin Competition comes with a large trolley backpack, double-action air pump with pressure gauge, coiled leash, single fin (US-Box System), repair kit including a valve wrench, and a new shoulder strap and fin pin for the 2021 version.

• Penguin Competition Manual: Detailed instructions on setting up and using your Penguin Competition are included.
• Penguin Competition SUP Backpack-Trolley: The large backpack comes with integrated wheels, allowing it to be easily pulled like a trolley. Padded shoulder straps with additional chest and hip straps provide ultimate comfort while carrying. The backpack features a main compartment for the rolled-up board and additional storage for your gear.

• Penguin Competition Double Action Air Pump: This pump allows for quick inflation with both up-and-down strokes, saving time and energy during setup. The integrated pressure gauge ensures accurate inflation levels.

• Penguin Competition Coiled Leash: Essential for advanced paddlers, the coiled leash securely attaches to your ankle or below the knee, keeping the board close if you fall into the water.
• Penguin Competition Single Fin (US-Box System): The removable single fin attaches easily for optimal performance while racing or touring. An array of fins is available for further customization.
• Penguin Competition Shoulder Strap: With this well-padded, adjustable carrying strap (including 4 plastic D-rings), you can easily sling the board over your shoulder. To do this, simply attach the plastic hook fasteners to the two side D-rings on the board.
• Penguin Competition Fin Pin: In the 2021 model, you can transform the single fin into a click-fin with the help of an innovative fin pin. You can then quickly secure it in the US box, making you ready to go much faster.
• Penguin Competition Repair Kit: Including all the essentials for minor repairs, this kit features a valve wrench and color-matched PVC patches.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Penguin Competition paddle board is designed to impress, specifically for advanced paddlers looking for high performance and speed.

Its innovative construction, sleek design, and racing capabilities make it a top choice for enthusiasts in the sport.

The 2021 model introduces useful new features, like the action-cam mount and lighter weight.

However, with a relatively high price and being unsuitable for novices, this board is tailored towards competitive, experienced individuals.

If you're passionate about racing and touring, the Penguin Competition won't disappoint.

A competition hull is a narrow one, so it is worth knowing what the rest of the range gives you instead. The Coast Runner, the Sir and Lady Lancer and the Lancer are all wider and a good deal more forgiving.