Yes, the Thurso Surf Waterwalker is a good choice for beginners.
We’ve thoroughly examined the Thurso Surf Waterwalker series, including the 120, 126, and 132 models.
But what qualities make it suitable for beginners?
Let’s explore the Thurso Surf Waterwalker’s features and strength as a beginner-friendly paddleboard.
Of the three sizes, Amazon currently stocks only the Waterwalker 132 (11 ft). The 120 and the 126 are still in the range, but Thurso sells those through its own shop.
Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 at a glance
Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132
Amazon stocks the 132 only- Skill levelBeginner and intermediate
- Size11 ft x 32 in x 6 in
- BuildDouble layer drop stitch with carbon rails, 300 liters
- Weight11.8 kg (26 lb)
- In the boxTrolley backpack, carbon paddle, 3 fins, coiled leash, triple action pump
Best for: A first board bought to last several seasons.
Carbon rails and a double layer skin give a standing platform that barely flexes under load. The price and the 26 lb carry weight are what a beginner pays for that.Strengths
- Carbon rails make it noticeably stiff
- Three sizes in the range
- Carbon paddle and trolley backpack included
Weaknesses
- 26 lb is heavy to carry
- Amazon lists only the 132
What makes a good Paddle Board for Beginners?
- Board Type: All-round boards are often favored by new SUP users due to their wide standing area and rounded tips. Other beginner-friendly options include cruising and wide touring boards.
- Dimensions: A width of around 80 cm is ideal for beginners, providing stability and ease in maintaining balance. Although less stable, narrower boards offer better gliding. A thickness of 15 cm (6 inches) ensures optimal buoyancy and stability.
- Weight Limit: Beginners should choose a board with a volume and load capacity that suits their weight. Our SUP board tests offer realistic evaluations and a formula to determine the appropriate user weight based on the board’s volume.
- Stiffness: High-stiffness boards provide a stable standing area, with double or multi-layer boards offering superior stiffness compared to single-layer ones. This results in a smoother glide and less deformation under load.
- Included Accessories: Beginner sets typically include accessories such as a SUP backpack, pump, paddle, and leash. Some sets may even feature a kayak seat, but the quality can vary significantly between packages.
- Price: While prices can differ, they often indicate the board’s quality and durability. Beginners should steer clear of extremely cheap options, as investing in a quality board can prevent the need for early replacements.
Is the Thurso Surf Waterwalker a Good Choice for Beginners?
#1 Board Type
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker is an all-round board, known for its wide standing area and rounded tips. This design offers stability and comfort for beginners.
As a beginner-friendly option, the Waterwalker provides an optimal platform for new SUP users to build skills and confidence on the water.
#2 Dimensions
With a width-range from 76 to 81 cm and a thickness of 15 cm, the Waterwalker meets the recommended dimensions for all beginners of different sizes.
These measurements provide stability and ease in maintaining balance, crucial for those new to paddleboarding.
#3 Weight Limit
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker accommodates a wide range of user weights, ensuring a suitable option for beginners of various sizes.
With a high load capacity, this board allows newcomers to enjoy a safe and stable paddling experience.
Here are our (tested) recommended weight-limits: 120: approx. 75 kg (165 lbs), 126: approx. 90 kg (198 lbs), 132: approx. 105 kg (231 lbs)
#4 Stiffness
Constructed with double-layer PVC and carbon reinforced rails, the Waterwalker boasts a high level of stiffness for increased stability and durability.
This stiffness makes it a reliable choice for beginners and promotes a smoother glide for an enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
#5 Included Accessories
This beginner-friendly set includes essential accessories such as a backpack, pump, paddle, leash, and a repair kit.
The inclusion of these items simplifies the paddleboarding experience for newcomers, making the Thurso Surf Waterwalker a convenient choice.
#6 Price
While not the least expensive option, the Waterwalker offers a good balance between quality and affordability.
For beginners, investing in this higher-quality paddleboard can prevent early replacements and provide a more enjoyable paddleboarding experience in the long run.
Conclusion
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker stands as an excellent choice for beginners, providing stability, optimal dimensions, and high stiffness.
Including essential accessories and offering a balance between quality and affordability, it is a reliable and value-packed option for newcomers to paddleboarding.
- Flagship All-around SUP: Measuring 11' x 32" x 6" and weighing just 22 lbs, the Waterwalker 132 inflatable paddle board is ideal for paddlers between 160–210 lbs (maximum capacity 330 lbs). Great for lakes, rivers, bays, oceans and any type of water body.
- Top Performance in Every Way: As the largest board in the Waterwalker family, this 11' board offers exceptional stability, impressive load capacity and fastest speed. Ideal for beginners, taller or heavier paddlers, or those carrying extra gear, children or pets along.
- Cutting-Edge Construction: Built with Woven Drop-stitch Core, Fusion PVC Coating, and Heat-Welded Rails, this board is 20% lighter than traditional knitted drop-stitch paddle boards while offering enhanced rigidity and durability. Not all boards are made the same and this is THE board you can rely on season after season.
- Full Experience on the Water: Equipped with upgraded wider and thicker bungees at the nose and tail, plus 15 D-rings to secure everything you need for the ride. Capture the moment with the GoPro mount at the nose, and keep essentials within reach using the two universal 1/4" mounts for cup holders or rod holders.
- Board ONLY with Core Essentials: Includes the board and key accessories: center fin, two side fins, coiled ankle leash, and a repair kit. This flexible setup lets you build your own ideal kit—pair it with a Thurso Surf paddle, pump, or SUP bag, or use gear you already own for a streamlined, no-fuss experience.
Thurso builds heavier and stiffer than most, which helps on the first day and hurts on the walk to the water. The pump time, the weight limit and the full review fill in that trade.
