Since we started reviewing paddle boards in 2016, we’ve tested over 100 unique models.
The Bluefin Nitro stands out as a top contender in the racing board category.
Our hands-on experience with this board reveals its excellent performance and high-quality construction, making it a top choice for advanced paddleboard enthusiasts.
The Bluefin Nitro offers incredible stiffness, a five-year warranty, and unmatched speed.
Let’s dive into our Bluefin Nitro review.
Table of Contents
Data & Facts
| Board Type | Inflatable (iSUP) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bluefin |
| Skill Level | Advanced |
| Price Range | Upper Mid-range |
| Intended Use | Racing Board |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | approx. 120-130 kg (265-285 lbs) |
| Length | 427 cm (14’0″) |
| Width | 71 cm (28″) |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6″) |
| Volume* (estimated) | approx. 320 – 330 Liters |
| Weight | 12.4 kg (27.3 lbs) |
| Accessories | Manual SUP Backpack NXT (convertible to dry bag) Removable Single Fin (US Box System) 3-piece Carbon Paddle (NXT Carbon) Switchable Triple-Action Air Pump with 2 Pistons (Swift Maxi) Coiled Leash (spiral safety line) Waterproof Phone Case Repair Kit |
How did the Bluefin Nitro change over time?
The Bluefin Nitro has undergone several changes in its latest version, improving its performance and features for advanced paddlers.
- Board Shape: Previously missing from Bluefin’s lineup, the Nitro now features a classic, narrow racing-board design for improved speed and performance.
- Construction: The Nitro employs Bluefin’s modern, welded Fusion technology combined with carbon rails, making it extremely stiff and durable while maintaining a lightweight build.
- Features: The Bluefin Nitro now offers a range of innovative features such as a double-textured deck pad with a longitudinal arch bar, five easy-carry handles, removable front cargo net and carry handle, and a rear water release edge to optimize gliding capabilities.
- Accessories: The Nitro comes with an upgraded accessory package including a NXT SUP backpack that can be converted into a dry bag, a 3-piece carbon paddle, a triple-action air pump, a coiled leash, and more.
Pro & Con
Pros
- High-quality construction with ESL Fusion and Carbon-Rails
- Optimal stiffness and high load capacity
- Narrow, race-oriented shape for excellent speed and glide
- Special racing single fin with US-Box-System for reduced resistance
- Many thoughtful features, including 5 grab handles and removable luggage net
- Comprehensive, high-quality accessory package included
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to other models
- Manual pump is small and may be uncomfortable for taller users
Built & Material
The Bluefin Nitro employs a combination of modern, high-quality construction techniques, including ESL Fusion and Carbon Rails, that ensure excellent stiffness and durability.
The ESL Fusion-Layer technology fuses the drop-stitch core with a UV-resistant PVC outer layer under heat and pressure, resulting in a lighter and more robust board.
Carbon rails are implemented on the side panels, further enhancing the stiffness and strength of the board. Bluefin calls this the Flex Reduction System (FRS), which contributes to the board’s impressive performance and speed.
These cutting-edge construction techniques make the Bluefin Nitro not only a high-performing racing SUP board but also an environmentally conscious choice, as the fusion process reduces material waste.
The lightweight construction also makes the board easier to transport and handle, a significant advantage for paddlers on the go.
Weight Limit
The Bluefin Nitro has a maximum weight limit of about 120-130 kg (265-286 lbs), as stated by the manufacturer. However, for optimal sports performance, we recommend keeping the paddler’s weight within a lower range.
Based on our experience, here is the recommended weight range for the Bluefin Nitro: 100-120 kg (220-264 lbs)
Reaching the maximum of this recommended weight range doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t go further. But be aware that as the weight increases, the volume of the board gradually approaches its limit, causing the board to sit deeper in the water and lose its desired riding characteristics.
Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
The Bluefin Nitro is a high-performance racing paddle board made for advanced paddlers looking to achieve top speeds and agile maneuverability. Its ultra-narrow shape and pointed nose are engineered to slice through water with minimal drag.
The long 14′ length paired with a width of just 28″ provides an extremely unstable platform that only seasoned paddlers with great balance can master. But in experienced hands, the Nitro excels at sprinting in calm conditions thanks to its stiffness and lightweight construction.
Weighing only 27.3 lbs, the Nitro’s carbon side rails and fusion drop-stitch construction make it very rigid while keeping weight low. This results in a board that accelerates and glides with ease.
The single removable racing fin also enhances straight-line stability for efficiency during each paddle stroke. While versatility and stability are not the Nitro’s strengths, its specialized performance capabilities allow advanced paddlers to achieve their top paddling speeds for racing or fitness training.
The kick pad at the tail aids in quick turns, allowing the Nitro to adeptly navigate tight spaces despite its length.
Overall, the Bluefin Nitro 14′ is a top choice for intermediate to advanced paddlers who prioritize speed and want to push their limits. Just don’t expect much stability from this ultra-slim racer. It’s built for going fast in a straight line, not leisurely cruising or all-around use.
Design
The Bluefin Nitro features a striking design that emphasizes its sporty nature. The color palette includes various shades of blue and gray along with black and white elements, all combined to create a dynamic look.
The board’s surface displays a mixture of geometric patterns, the brand logo, and the board’s name, all tying together harmoniously. The rails are solid light blue and feature information about the board, manufacturer, and construction details.
The underside boasts a large-scale pattern and prominent Bluefin branding.
Design elements that make a splash in the Nitro’s aesthetic include the sharp, sporty lines of the board and the fine details that highlight its racing capabilities. Be aware that the dark color scheme might cause the board to heat up quickly in the sun, resulting in increased air pressure.
Features
- Deckpad with Kickpad: The EVA foam deckpad has a double diamond and crocodile skin texture for grip. The rear section has a kickpad for quick turns.
- 5 Carry Handles: There are handles at the front, rear, sides, and center. The middle handle has a neoprene sleeve that doubles as a paddle holder.
- D-Rings: A D-ring at the rear secures the coiled leash. The front removable handle attaches to a D-ring with a reflector. The luggage net attaches to 6 D-rings with reflectors.
- Removable Racing Fin: The US box system fin is designed for speed and low drag. It can be quickly installed and removed.
- Luggage Net: The large front net provides storage secured to 6 durable D-rings. It can detach via a carabiner.
- Action Cam Mount: A mount at the nose allows you to capture your SUP adventures. The front handle is removed to reveal 2 more D-rings.
- Abrupt Edge: The abrupt edge at the rear prevents the tail from sticking to the water surface at high speeds.
Accessory
- Bluefin Nitro Manual: A comprehensive guide about setting up the Bluefin Nitro is included, providing crucial information on proper handling and maintenance.
- Bluefin Nitro SUP Backpack: The new Nitro backpack features a sizable main compartment with adjustable luggage straps, as well as a large front compartment, both secured by zippers. Padded handles and straps ensure comfortable carrying, and a drainage hole is available for packing the board wet. The overall dimensions of the backpack are 90 x 46 x 30 cm, providing ample storage space for all your Bluefin Nitro gear.
- 3-piece Bluefin Nitro Carbon Paddle: This adjustable Carbon paddle (175 cm to 210 cm) is designed with a carbon-fiber shaft and a sturdy nylon blade and handle. Weighing only 950 g, it provides a lightweight, high-performance alternative to aluminum paddles in cheaper board sets.
- Bluefin Nitro Triple-Action Pump: The new “Swift Maxi” pump is featured in this accessory pack, offering rapid inflation with its 2-cylinder, 3-stage mechanism. The dual-action and single-action modes allow for quick and efficient pumping at high pressures, enabling you to inflate the Bluefin Nitro within minutes.
- Removable Bluefin Nitro Racing Fin: The specialized racing fin uses the US-Box-System, allowing for easy installation and removal, while reducing water resistance and improving the board’s performance.
- Bluefin Nitro Coiled Leash: The spiral safety leash keeps the board close at hand by fastening it securely around your ankle or below your knee, ensuring safety in case you fall into the water.
- Bluefin Nitro Waterproof Phone Case: This waterproof case protects your phone while allowing touchscreen functionality, ensuring your mobile device stays safe and dry during your SUP adventures.
- Bluefin Nitro Repair Kit: The repair kit consists of color-matched PVC patches, spare reflectors for added visibility, and a valve wrench, providing essential tools for minor repairs and maintenance of your Bluefin Nitro board.
FAQ
How long does it take to inflate the Bluefin Nitro?
It takes just a few minutes to inflate the Bluefin Nitro using the included Swift Maxi triple-action pump.
What pressure should I inflate the Bluefin Nitro to?
Inflate the Bluefin Nitro to a recommended pressure of 15-18 PSI for optimal stiffness and performance.
Is the Bluefin Nitro good for beginners?
The Bluefin Nitro is designed for advanced paddlers, so it may not be the best choice for beginners due to its narrow, race-oriented shape.
What’s the weight limit of the Bluefin Nitro?
The Bluefin Nitro has a maximum weight limit of 265-286 lbs (120-130 kg), but optimal sports performance is achieved with a paddler’s weight within the 220-264 lbs (100-120 kg) range.
Conclusion
The Bluefin Nitro stands out as an exceptional inflatable racing SUP board for advanced paddlers.
Its high-quality construction, ESL Fusion and Carbon-Rails, and excellent performance features make it a reliable racing partner.
The Nitro provides a comprehensive, high-quality accessory package for an ultimate paddleboarding experience.
Though slightly pricey, the board’s exceptional attributes and the included five-year warranty add value to this investment.
The Bluefin Nitro is an excellent choice for those seeking a superior racing SUP experience.
