In California, Surftech’s Aleka not only incporarates many biobased elements into its board, it now is an official winner too. Surftech’s board won Outside Online’s “Gear of the Year” award and is listed as #1 of the “Best Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2018.”
Surftech uses bio-based epoxy, algae-based foam in the pad, and bamboo layers, but the reasons listed for its award win is its durability, design and performance. Outside Online said, it “achieved a near perfect balance of steadiness, glide, and responsiveness. It doesn’t hurt that it’s poppy and fun to paddle.” The board is also on the lighter side compared to similar boards, weighing in at only 23.5 pounds.