Attention: This test (incl. pictures and video) still refers to the previous model. Recently, there are also the new variants, which have some differences. Under the heading "Innovations 2022" we provide you with a short list of the changes of the new models. Detailed information on the individual points can be found in the color-coded note boxes and the red additions to the individual sections! As soon as we have tested the new version ourselves, the test report will of course be completely revised.
Under the name Waterwalker, the manufacturer Thurso Surf, which is active in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, sells two different paddle boards: The Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126 and the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132.
Innovations 2022:
- now available in 3 different sizes
- 120: 305 x 76 x 15 cm (10′ x 30″ x 6″)
- 126: 320 x 79 x 15 cm (10.5′ x 31″ x 6″)
- 136: 335 x 81 x 15 cm (11′ x 32″ x 6″)
- new design
- each size available in 3 different colors: red (Crimson), turquoise (Turquoise), orange (Tangerine)
- carbon rails for even better stiffness
- Deckpad structure revised
- Action cam mount on the nose
- Triple action air pump with 2 pistons
- Visually reworked carbon paddle
Both versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are great paddleboarding boards for beginners. Above all, the great workmanship, the numerous features on the board and the extensive accessory package included with the board make this paddleboard set so outstanding. Hardly any other manufacturer can match Thurso Surf in terms of quality. However, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker isn't available often.
Table of Contents
Short on Time? Here’s the Most Important:
Both boards are inflatable allround paddle boards that are well made, come with a lot of accessories, are good for longer trips with the two luggage nets and come in a wooden look.
Below, I’ll go into more detail about the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126 (320 cm x 79 cm x 15 cm) and the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 (335 cm x 81 cm x 15 cm) of their own, compare the two boards, and explain who should buy which model.
Currently, a more compact 10' version (305 x 76 x 15 cm/10' x 30" x 6") has been added with the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 120.
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker Review in Detail
This board review is first all about the two boards, the Waterwalker 126 and the Waterwalker 132. I then go into detail about the accessories that are included. At the end of the post, there is a section where I answer common questions about the Thurso Surf Waterwalker. If you have any other questions or are unclear, feel free to post in the comments. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Product Specifications
| Board Type | Inflatable |
| Brand | Thurso Surf |
| Skill | Beginner, Advanced |
| Area of Application | Allround |
| Max. Paddler Weight | 70 kg (155 lbs) | 80 kg (176 lbs) | 90 kg (200 lbs) |
| Length | 305 cm (10′) | (320 cm (10’6) | 335 cm (11′) |
| Width | 76 cm (30″) | 79 cm (31″) | 81 cm (32″) |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6″) |
| Volume | 240 liters | 270 liters | 300 liters |
| Weight | 10,2 kg (22.5 lbs) | 10,9 kg (24 lbs) | 11,8 kg (26 lbs) |
| Accessories | Backpack trolley, 3-piece paddle (carbon), 3 removable fins (Smartlock system), coiled leash, reversible double action pump, repair kit, new versions: with triple action pump |
Construction
With the model 120, a compact 10' board with 305 x 76 x 15 (10' x 30" x 6") cm has now been added, which is especially suitable for light and small adults as well as for teenagers.
Both Waterwalker SUP boards are classic allrounder boards. The Thurso Surf Waterwalker boards are built quite wide in relation to the length and lie accordingly stable in the water. Later I will go into more detail about what this means for the riding characteristics.
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126, with a length of 320 cm (10’6), a width of 79 cm (31″), and a top of 15 cm (6″), is very solidly built and offers a high degree of stability.
The same applies to the Waterwalker 132, which with the dimensions of 335 cm x 81 cm x 15 cm (11′ x 32″ x 6″), however, is built longer and wider, which provides even more tipping stability. Especially beginners benefit from the fact that the boards are so stable in the water.
Another advantage is the thickness of 15 cm (6″). In both versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker fits thereby significantly more air than in only 10 cm (4″) thick paddle boards inside. This provides more buoyancy, a higher load capacity and more stiffness.
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker paddle boards can also be used for medium-length tours. However, they are not full touring boards. Touring-class SUPs offer much more directional stability with a narrow design and a length of at least 350 cm (11′).
The better directional stability is especially noticeable on long trips, as the board breaks out sideways less and thus the paddle side has to be changed less often. With touring boards, higher speeds can be built up as a result.
Load Capacity
Compared to the previous versions, Thurso Surf is much more cautious when stating the payload of the new versions. According to the manufacturer, this is about 70 kg (155 lbs) for the 305 cm (10') board and about 80 kg (176 lbs) for the 320 cm (10'6) board. The large 335 cm (11') model is suitable for paddlers up to 95 kg (200 lbs)!
With a maximum load of 135 kilograms / 300 lbs (Waterwalker 126) or 150 kilograms / 330 lbs (Waterwalker 132), which the manufacturer specifies, probably rather the floatability is meant. From our experience, in terms of optimal performance, the maximum recommended paddler weight is more likely to be 100 kg / 220 lbs on the 320 cm (10’6) board or 110 (242 lbs) to 120 kg (265 lbs) on the 335 cm (11′) board.
Nevertheless, within these weight limits, the stiff SUP boards are also well suited for trips with two people, SUP with a dog or children on board.
Areas of Application and Driving Characteristics
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker SUP board is an allrounder board that is best suited for different areas of use. The wide-built Waterwalker paddle boards are best used for trips over canals, lakes and rivers with slow flowing speed.
Especially for SUP beginners, boards like the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are practical because the wide-built SUPs offer a very high level of tipping stability. And the setup with the three (removable) fins makes the Waterwalker SUPs even more stable in the water.
With the classic 2+1 fin setup, the stability and maneuverability is the greatest. For beginners this is always the best option.
If you decide to use the single center fin, the straight line is more emphasized. The board will then stay on track very nicely in a straight line and you can implement a fast paddling rhythm, resulting in higher speeds.
In shallow water (e.g. on river tours) it is also possible to use the two side fins alone. This minimizes the draft. In practice, however, this setting is usually not very useful, as it makes the board difficult to steer. The Thurso Surf Waterwalker SUP boards are also well suited for medium SUP tours with a lot of luggage. This is because the two luggage nets offer enough space to attach several drybags, water bottles or other equipment underneath.
Material & Weight
To the following construction, the new versions add a carbon layer in the rails (side surfaces), which certainly has a positive effect on the already good stiffness and robustness. The weight could also be reduced by this adjustment and is now 10.2 kg (305 cm), 10.9 kg (320 cm) and 11.8 kg (335 cm).
The weight could also be reduced by this adjustment and is now 10.2 kg (305 cm), 10.9 kg (320 cm) and 11.8 kg (335 cm).[/alert]
The double-layer dropstitch process is used in manufacturing, where two PVC layers are bonded together to make the shell even more robust and durable. In the so-called dropstitch core, plastic threads connect the top and bottom sides. In addition, Thurso Surf Waterwalker paddle boards have their edges reinforced with three more layers.
The development of inflatable boards has picked up in recent years, but the edges are still a common weak point. For this reason, it is very good that Thurso Surf has additionally reinforced these vulnerable edges. This gives hope for a long service life.
The weight of 12 and 13 kg respectively is within the average range of comparable models.
Both versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are great paddleboarding boards for beginners. Above all, the great workmanship, the numerous features on the board and the extensive accessory package included with the board make this paddleboard set so outstanding. Hardly any other manufacturer can match Thurso Surf in terms of quality. However, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker isn't available often.
Design
Design of the new models: By now, each size is available in 3 different colors: red, turquoise and orange. The trendy wood look has been retained and now looks even more natural. The longitudinal stripes have been significantly reduced and made more discreet, except for the colored one in the middle. The cover pad is now 3 colored and diagonally divided into 3 areas. We like the new design very much and we are already curious how it looks "in real"!
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker is fully on trend with its wood look. The longitudinal stripes create the optical impression of a boat deck. The deckpad in black and white forms a successful contrast.
Workmanship
In this important point, we noticed absolutely nothing negative about the test board. On the contrary, the workmanship was clean across the board. Especially in the glued seams and the material transitions, no defects were found.
This is not a matter of course, even in this price range, and speaks absolutely for the manufacturer, who also has a good reputation in this regard.
Other features
In the following, I will briefly discuss the other features:
- Deckpad: The Thurso Surf Waterwalker boards are each equipped with a large EVA deckpad. The deckpad feels comfortable and provides a secure footing even when wet.
- Luggage Nets: The special feature of the Waterwalker is that these boards are equipped with two luggage nets at once.
- 3 Carrying loops: Directly in the middle of the board is the central carrying loop, this is most important to carry the board alone and also shows you the most stable point for your feet. At the tail and the nose are 2 more handles attached, which facilitate the transport and handling in the water.
- 5 free D-rings: At the tail you can attach the included coiled leash. A separately available kayak seat can be mounted on the 4 side D-rings.
- Paddle holder: Practical is also the paddle holder in the middle right on the SUP. The paddle can be attached to these 2 Velcro cuffs so that it does not slip off the board.
In the new versions, the following features have been revised or are new: Deckpad: The standing surface is now textured with small honeycombs. Action cam mount: a GoPro or other commercially available action cam can now be mounted on the nose.
Accessories
The following equipment has been revised or replaced on the new versions: Carbon paddle: slight, purely visual changes. Triple action air pump: the new pump is much more powerful and has 2 pistons and 3 operating modes. So you can choose the right setting for each pumping phase. This pump can also be used for both pumping up and pumping down. Backpack Trolley: there are also small changes here, but we would like to describe them to you in detail only after our own test!
Accessories are one of the things that Thurso Surf Waterwalker paddle boards shine with. Namely, when you buy it, all the basic equipment is already included. This is especially convenient for beginners.
For beginners, these complete sets are worthwhile. In individual purchase, the accessories would cost easily 150 to 200 €. With these sets, you can save considerably. And another advantage is that you do not have to pay attention to the compatibility of the equipment. The connection of the air pump fits guaranteed on the valve of the board and also the backpack offers space for the rolled up Waterwalker SUP board as well as all the accessories.
Compared to other SUPs, the various versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are a bit pricey, but the accessories make up for that. Not only does the scope of delivery turn out to be very extensive, but the quality is also convincing:
The following equipment is included:
- Thurso Surf Waterwalker Backpack Trolley: The backpack in anthracite offers enough space for the entire set in the large main compartment with a circumferential zipper. Smaller items can also be stowed in the small front pocket. Thanks to the integrated wheels, it can be pulled behind comfortably even on longer distances. It has 3 carrying straps, side mesh pockets with straps over them (e.g. for the paddle parts) and an address window. The carrying straps are wide and comfortably padded. An overall very good, comfortable model.
- 3-Piece Thurso Surf Waterwalker Carbon Paddle: Included with the Thurso Surf Waterwalker is a high-quality, infinitely adjustable (180 – 220 cm) SUP paddle with a carbon shaft that weighs only 900 grams and can be easily disassembled into three parts for transport. Especially on longer tours, the low weight is noticeable compared to the models made of aluminum, as these models often weigh much more than and also can not float.
- Thurso Surf Waterwalker switchable double action air pump with pressure gauge (manometer): the scope of delivery includes a very high quality double action pump, with which air is pumped into the board when pushing down and when pulling up. If that gets too tiring for you, you can easily switch it to the easier single action mode and then only pump when pushing down.
- Thurso Surf Waterwalker Coiled-Leash (spiral safety leash): Included in the set is a leash that only expands to its full length if you fall into the water. One end is attached to the rear D-ring and the Velcro cuff can be attached to the ankle or below the knee. This keeps your board close to you even when you’re in the water.
- 3 removable Thurso Surf Waterwalker fins (Smartlock system): Both side fins and the large center fin are removable and are attached to the board via the so-called Smartlock system. To mount, simply insert the desired fin into the rail, push it down and fix it with a small, integrated lever. The system is very fast and convenient. Unfortunately, the market for spare parts is in the hands of a few manufacturers. Here you can find a guidebook that deals in detail with the sometimes annoying procurement of Smartlock fins.
- Thurso Surf Waterwalker Repairkit: This small kit in the orange screw box consists of 2 PVC patches, a small tube with glue and a valve wrench. You can use it to repair small defects yourself and check or replace the valve.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How much PSI is the Thurso Surf Waterwalker inflated to?
Both models of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are inflated to an air pressure of 15 PSI. This is equivalent to a pressure of just over one bar. With the included air pump, this is done in 5 to 8 minutes.
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126 can be inflated a bit faster than the slightly larger board Waterwalker 132 with the volume of 300 liters, due to the volume of only 270 liters.
Who should buy the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126 and who should buy the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132?
Both boards are allrounders that are very well suited for beginners. One reason for this is the high level of tipping stability. Furthermore, the SUPs convince with the high-quality accessories that are included in the complete sets. For SUP beginners who do not have the equipment at home yet, sets like the Thurso Surf Waterwalker SUP boards are wonderfully suitable.
With carrying capacities of 300 lbs (135 kilograms) for the Waterwalker 126) and 330 lbs (150 kilograms) for Waterwalker 132, both boards are suitable for heavy paddlers. However, if you want to go paddling with two (light) adults or several children, it is best to choose the larger board Thurso Surf 132.
If the higher load capacity is not important, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 126 is the better choice. The slightly narrower design (even one inch makes a difference) provides better straight-line stability, which is definitely noticeable on longer trips.
Conclusion
Both versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are great paddle boards for beginners. Above all, the good workmanship, the numerous extras on the board and the extensive accessories stand out positively.
In terms of quality of accessories, hardly any other manufacturer can match Thurso Surf.
However, it is a pity that the Waterwalker is not always available, which is probably not least due to the great popularity of the boards…
Both versions of the Thurso Surf Waterwalker are great paddleboarding boards for beginners. Above all, the great workmanship, the numerous features on the board and the extensive accessory package included with the board make this paddleboard set so outstanding. Hardly any other manufacturer can match Thurso Surf in terms of quality. However, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker isn't available often.
