We do not recommend buying a used Aqua Marina because it’s difficult to judge the quality of a second-hand Aqua Marina Fusion; typically there are missing gears; you are not getting the current-year model; and, the Aqua Marina Fusion is not an expensive board in the first place.
The Aqua Marina Fusion is a great introductory board. It’s well-made, stable and paddles well too. This, probably biased by its earlier use for testing that brought me in contact with it, is why I think the Aqua Marina Fusion would be a good first SUP.
But what about buying it pre-owned?
Let’s dive in.
There are two reasons to buy used: You can save money, or you can score a deal by buying from someone who wants to upgrade or get a model with serious discounts from friends & family.
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Is the Aqua Marina Fusion a Good Value Purchase?
Yes, it is. But you can get other great deals from other manufacturers too. So make sure to compare prices properly and resist that urge to go for a lower price used model because you think you’re getting a good deal.
If you are curious, also check out our comparisons of the Aqua Marina Fusion vs the Lidl paddleboard, Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast and Aqua Marina Fusion vs Bluefin Cruise.
Should You Buy a Second-Hand Aqua Marina Fusion?
We at stand-up-paddling.org aren’t huge fans of buying used paddle boards. There are four reasons not to buy used. Let’s list them:
1. It’s Difficult to Judge the State and Quality of a Paddle Board
When purchasing a used paddle board, you’re taking a risk. It’s difficult to judge the quality and state of a board when you get it from someone else. There might be hidden damage, contamination, scratches or simply wear and tear caused by normal use.
You just don’t know how careful or careless the previous owners were with the equipment.
2. There Might Be Missing or Broken Gear
There are some great deals available from people who want to upgrade their paddle boards, but make sure you get every piece of equipment that comes with it. Missing fins, a missing paddle (piece), bag pack, repair kit or even a leash can cause major problems for you.
Replacing a part of the equipment often costs 20 to 100 pounds. Especially the paddle and backpack are costly.
3. You Are Not Buying the Current-Year Models
You might really like the design and features of the Aqua Marina Fusion (check out our review), but don’t buy it on a whim. Make sure you get an up-to-date model because what you see isn’t what you get.
When buying a used model, you are most likely getting the model from two or three years ago. This means that it doesn’t the up-to-date gear, built-quality or design.
4. The Aqua Marina Fusion Isn’t an Expensive Paddle Board in the First Place
The Aqua Marina Fusion is a great entry-level board for beginners, but when buying used, you’re always taking a risk and spend less money than necessary. You might be able to find a good deal on the paddle board simply by shopping around.
