The Cala brand enjoys high international recognition and has only recently become available in Germany. We were very curious to see how the boards will do, since they absolutely stand out visually.
All the more pleasing that we were able to test some of the brand’s boards ourselves to find out how the models will perform in comparison to the numerous boards that we have tested for you in recent years.
In terms of price, the Cala boards match those of major brand manufacturers, so it will now be particularly exciting to closely test this paddle board through its paces.
Are there any special features of the Cala boards that others don’t have? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the paddleboard? These and a few more questions I want to answer today.
The Cala Maui 10'8 is suitable for all beginners who want a stable allrounder that has been produced sustainably. Its particular shape makes it slightly more suitable for smaller tours and calm rivers. The high-quality production method of both the board and the accessories explains the comparatively high entry-level price. If you consider that the purchase price also includes a carbon paddle, then the price is quickly put into perspective.
Table of Contents
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This review is about the allround board from Cala called Cala Maui 10’8. The board is a classic allrounder with the dimensions of 10′ 8 (329 cm) length and 32″ (81 cm) width.
Compared to other allrounders, the nose of the Cala Maui tapers a bit and ends about mid-board with pretty straight rails (sidewalls). This shape is a bit more suitable for longer distances than the classic allrounders with rounded nose.
The fully removable 2+1 fin setup in the Smartlock system gives you great maneuverability of the board as well as a wide range of uses.
The Cala Maui 10’8 is especially pleasing to nature lovers, as some components are made from up to 20% seagrass. Also, otherwise great importance was placed on sustainability during production, which partly already explains the increased price compared to other iSUP sets.
The board is thanks to the Fusion technology (“HDX Air System Technology”) additionally quite strong load and holds a maximum air pressure up to 20 PSI, so it falls into the category of very stiff boards.
Joyful paddling with the lightweight board (9.6 kg) is joined by a pleasantly bright, sporty design with hibiscus flowers and also red-blue stripes. Also the included 775g lightweight 3-piece carbon paddle emphasizes the lightness of the typical surfer`s “Hang Loose” (Make yourself loose) life style.
The standing surface of the board is covered with non-slip EVA, so that cruising on this board is still fun even with a dog.
The load capacity is specified with up to 125 kg, 100 kg are easily feasible in practice, which the manufacturer itself proves on the product photo with dog.
The luggage net on the nose makes it easy for you to safely store your provisions, because you always have something with you. On the front of the board is an action cam mount to film your adventures.
Also included is a reversible double-action air pump, a coiled leash, a short manual and a repair kit in case you need to mend the board unexpectedly.
You also get three detachable fins and a sturdy large board bag with wheels (trolley), in which you can easily stow all the equipment to get to the paddle board location of your choice.
I will go into detail about the individual components later, but here is a brief overview of the pros and cons of the Cala Maui 10’8 iSUP set:
Cala Maui Review in Detail
The Cala Maui 10’8 is a new board on the market and with the large number of available boards, we also test this iSUPs for you in detail and look at it very closely.
In addition to the dimensions, I check the shape and texture of the board, find out for you what the advantages and disadvantages are and whether the board is suitable for your goals.
I will also find out for you whether the load specified by the manufacturer is realistic and how the board performs on the water. Of course, I also look at the accessories and give my assessment.
Frequently asked questions are answered at the end of the text. If you have any more, feel free to ask them in the form of a comment at the end of the article.
Product Specifications
| Board Type | Inflatable |
| Brand | Cala |
| Skill | Beginner |
| Area of Application | Allround |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | ca. 100 kg (220 lbs) |
| Length | 329 cm (10’8″) |
| Width | 81 cm (32″) |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6″) |
| Volume | no information from the manufacturer, estimated at approx. 280-300 liters |
| Weight | 9,6 kg (21 lbs) |
| Accessories | SUP trolley board bag, instruction manual, double action pump (reversible), 3-piece carbon paddle (infinitely adjustable), coiled leash incl. key compartment, 3 removable fins (Smartlock system), repair kit incl. valve key |
Construction
The Cala Maui 10’8 has a length of 329 cm and a width of 81 cm and thus a classic allrounder character.
If you look at the board shape a little closer, you will notice that the nose is quite narrow, which is different for many allrounder boards, where you usually see a rounded nose. Therefore, the model could also be assigned to the cruising boards.
A Noserocker (upwardly bent board tip) is always very helpful when it gets wavy, because the board tip then less easily submerged.
The straight cut tail provides a wider water break than the classic pin tail (narrow, rounded tail) and stabilizes the straight run of the board. This little detail can be quite handy in keeping the board stable.
The single air chamber is estimated to have a volume in the range of 280 to 300 liters. Unfortunately, the company does not provide an exact specification on this!
Short, thick and stable are the optimal properties that make a board very maneuverable and versatile. You can use this board in almost any water, except in white water.
Load Capacity
According to the manufacturer, the Cala Maui 10’8 is designed for a load of 125 kg. The sturdy design of the outer hull and the double reinforced rails result in a resilient and stiff outer hull.
In everyday use, the manufacturer recommends a pressure of 15 PSI, but up to 20 PSI is possible. Only a few manufacturers specify a maximum pressure of 20 PSI.
The proof that the board can carry 100 kg on the water is given by the manufacturer on the photo and on the product video for the board. If he can do it, so can you.
Areas of Application and Driving Characteristics
The well thought-out combination of maneuverability and easier straight running opens up numerous possibilities for you to use the board on different waters and for different purposes.
The dimensions of the board speak for use on lakes and calm rivers without white water. However, the noserocker and the straight tail of the board also make it possible to use it in wavy water, for example at the sea or on a lake.
In calm waters, you can also use the Cala Maui 10’8 very well for a small after-work tour with friends.
However, this tour should not be too long, there are other boards that are better suited, such as the Cala Touring Ikatere.
The board gives you a lot of trick joy and great agility due to its construction. Due to the high stiffness and the stable width there are many possibilities to do first turns or yoga exercises on the board.
The versatility is also emphasized by the fin setup with 3 removable copies. A single fin alone, always means an improved straight line (touring setup). With 3 fins, on the other hand, you emphasize maneuverability and tipping stability.
Material and Weight
The Cala Maui 10’8 has a single-layer PVC outer shell. This outer layer is welded to the core using Fusion technology, making it very stable.
Inside the board, very many and closely interwoven polyester threads (“X-Woven Dropstitch”) ensure maximum torsional stiffness.
The fusion process, in which the outer layer is welded to the dropstitch fabric under the influence of heat and pressure, is one of the most modern processes. This technology is also used by other, well-known manufacturers.
Cala Boards calls the combination of the mentioned techniques “HDX Air System Technology”.
Weighing only 9.6 kg, the board is one of the lightest, at least compared to other boards of the same size. This makes it very easy to transport and emphasizes the recreational factor of SUP paddling.
Design
The Cala Maui 10’8 has an eye-catching design. It is strongly reminiscent of the origin of the paddle board sport, which has its origins in Polynesia.
It has a white base color, the red silhouette of a traditional-looking ukulele player on the nose and a hibiscus flowers in red and blue. The South Sea dream in white is visually rounded off by blue and red sport stripes in the middle of the deckpad.
Workmanship
Unfortunately, there were again a few minor things to find fault with on this test board. These include glue residue and errors in the print of the design.
Of course, these are only visual defects, but the manufacturer should still pay more attention to this as part of quality control if it wants to gain a foothold in the premium segment.
Since Cala is still quite new on the market, it remains to be hoped that this will settle in even better.
Because otherwise the board is really very good, enormously stiff and makes through its agility really fun. The construction is high quality and the material selection as well.
2 years warranty is available on all paddle boards of the manufacturer. This is always desirable in terms of longevity and speaks clearly for a rock-solid quality.
The Cala Maui 10'8 is suitable for all beginners who want a stable allrounder that has been produced sustainably. Its particular shape makes it slightly more suitable for smaller tours and calm rivers. The high-quality production method of both the board and the accessories explains the comparatively high entry-level price. If you consider that the purchase price also includes a carbon paddle, then the price is quickly put into perspective.
Features
The Cala Maui 10.8 has the following features:
- 3 removable fins (“Smartlock System”): A large central fin in the middle of the board controls the iSUP’s straight-line stability. Independently of this, two additional, small fins can be mounted on the sides. Especially in wavy waters, the two small side fins increase the tipping stability of the board.
- EVA deckpad: The top is covered to about 60% with an EVA deckpad (20% seagrass), which gives the paddler enough room to move around and at the same time is long enough to carry a second person or a child.
- Central carrying strap including paddle holder: a neoprene reinforced handle is attached to the center of the board, which can be used to carry the board. A removable neoprene sleeve can be used to secure the paddle to the board.
- Additional carrying handle at the back: At the rear end of the board, there is another additional handle made of webbing material mounted in a transverse position. This handle is also equipped with the removable neoprene cuff, so you can also attach your paddle here.
- D-ring for the leash: At the rear end of the board is a D-ring integrated into the rubber patch of the valve. So you can secure the board with your paddle board leash or tow another board.
- Additional D-ring: The Cala Maui board has an additional D-ring on the underside of the board which can also be used for securing (anchor ring) or towing.
- Luggage net: To secure your accessories in a waterproof packed bag (Dry-Bag), there is an elasticated luggage net on the front of the board, attached to 4 additional D-rings.
- Action cam mount: At the front of the board there is an action cam mount, to which an action cam (in the picture a model of Crosstour) can be attached, with which you can put your adventures in action film-like scene.
Accessories
The Cala Maui 10’8 comes with the following accessories, just like the other Cala boards:
- 3 removable Cala Maui 10’8 fins: Both side fins and the large center fin are removable and are attached to the board via the so-called Smartlock system. The side fins are much larger than the fixed ones in a classic 2+1 fin setup. As a result, they create a higher resistance in the water, which has a positive effect in terms of stability and maneuverability. These fins are very stable, make a robust impression and are even contoured (“elliptical”) in cross-section to achieve the best hydrodynamic properties. To install, 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. It is also used by numerous other well-known manufacturers (e.g. Bluefin, Thurso Surf, iRocker etc.). Unfortunately, the market for spare parts is also in the hands of these companies. Here you can find a guide, which deals in detail with the sometimes annoying procurement of Smartlock fins.
- 3-Piece Cala Maui 10’8 Carbon Paddle: The 3-piece carbon paddle is only 775g light and can be adjusted continuously from 170 cm to 210 cm in length. The shaft is made of carbon, the paddle blade and the handle are made of reinforced nylon. The handle part with printed scale can be secured bombproof via the adjustable clamp closure, via a click connection is connected from the paddle blade part with shaft.
- Cala Maui 10’8 Trolley Backpack: The set includes a silver backpack trolley with matching design elements and 2 compartments. The large main compartment is designed to hold the rolled up board and large pieces of gear. Furthermore, the model has a handle, a transparent address compartment, 2 side slots and several straps (inside and outside) to fix the contents or the paddle parts to the side. The additional zippered front pocket is suitable for storing smaller pieces of equipment (fins, etc.) or your personal items. With the wide and softly padded carrying straps as well as the adjustable chest and waist strap, the backpack can be adjusted close to the body. The additionally padded back section increases the carrying comfort. For air travel, the trolley backpack is also well suited, because the straps can be stored in a separate back compartment, so they can not get tangled in the luggage belts at the airport. If the luggage is too heavy for you, you can simply pull the backpack behind you as a trolley thanks to the two integrated off-road wheels. The model is really first class and is one of the best I have seen so far!
- Switchable Cala Maui 10’8 double action pump with pressure gauge: The included black double action pump allows you to pump air into the board both when pulling up and pushing down. If this becomes increasingly difficult towards the end, you can flip the lever on the housing to switch to the less strenuous single action mode. In this mode, the pump only works when you press down on the ergonomically designed handle. From a certain threshold value, the pressure gauge (pressure indicator) shows the pressure reached and you can precisely set the desired value. If you screw the pump hose to the other opening on the handle part, you can pump air out of the board. This type of paddle board air pump has become the standard.
- Cala Maui 10’8 Coiled-Leash (spiral safety leash): The iSUP leash ensures the connection between you and your board at all times. The coiling reduces it to the most necessary space, in case of a fall the leash expands up to 305 cm (10′), so you have enough freedom of movement.
- Cala Maui 10’8 Repair Kit: in the highly unlikely event that your board gets a hole, you can now easily patch it with this repair kit. Also included is a valve wrench for tightening or changing the valve.
FAQ
How long does it take to inflate the Cala Maui 10’8?
Thanks to the included double action pump, this is a matter of 5-7 minutes. Experienced paddlers can pump 15 PSI into the Cala Maui 10’8 in under 5 minutes using the double action pump. Learn more about the Cala Maui.
Is the Cala Maui 10’8 also suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Cala Maui 10’8 is very suitable for beginners thanks to its dimensions and its very high stability against tipping. Learn more about the Cala Maui.
Can the Cala Maui also be used in waves?
The Cala Maui 10’8 can take small waves of up to 30 cm in its sleep. Paddling on bathing lakes with the allrounder is also sleek and easy. With waves in the sea and on the high seas, it takes a lot of skill to surf such an iSUP in the wave. It is not impossible, but it is unrealistic for beginners, and advanced surfers use a special model for real waves, simply because it is best suited for these challenges. Learn more about the Cala Maui.
Conclusion
The Cala Maui 10’8 is suitable for all beginners who want a stable allrounder that has been produced sustainably.
Its particular shape makes it slightly more suitable for smaller tours and calm rivers. The high-quality production method of both the board and the accessories explains the comparatively high entry-level price.
When you consider that the purchase price also includes a carbon paddle, the price quickly puts itself into perspective.
The Cala Maui 10’8 is very durable and thanks to the 20% seaweed content also still sustainably produced. Should the board have any defects, the manufacturer gives a two-year warranty.
The unusual ornamentation speaks for the manufacturer’s connection with its habitat and its sense for detail.
The fancy look combined with the above-average stiffness and riding characteristics is convincing.
The board is definitely suitable for demanding beginners who want to do good for the environment and at the same time call a chic and robust iSUP with high-quality accessories their own.
The Cala Maui 10'8 is suitable for all beginners who want a stable allrounder that has been produced sustainably. Its particular shape makes it slightly more suitable for smaller tours and calm rivers. The high-quality production method of both the board and the accessories explains the comparatively high entry-level price. If you consider that the purchase price also includes a carbon paddle, then the price is quickly put into perspective.
