Since we began reviewing paddle boards in 2016, we’ve tested over 100 different models.
Many people asked us a simple question: Lidl Paddleboard vs Bluefin Cruise.
We’ve personally reviewed both boards and spent a lot of time to see how they compare.
So, which one is better: the Lidl Paddleboard or the Bluefin Cruise?
Table of Contents
Data & Facts
| Board | Lidl Paddleboard | Bluefin Cruise |
|---|---|---|
| Board Type | Inflatable (iSUP) | Inflatable (iSUP) |
| Brand | Mistral | Bluefin |
| Skill Level | Beginner | Beginner and Intermediate |
| Price Range | Low | Upper Mid-range |
| Intended Use | Allround | Cruising Board |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | Approx. 95 kg | 9’8”: approx. 70-80 kg (155-175 lbs) 10’4”: approx. 80-90 kg (175-200 lbs) 10’8”: approx. 100-110 kg (220-240 lbs) 12′: approx. 120-130 kg (265-285 lbs) |
| Length | 320 cm (10’6″) | 9’8” (295 cm) 10’4” (315 cm) 10’8” (325 cm) 12′ (366 cm) |
| Width | 84 cm (33″) | 9’8”: 76 cm (30”) 10’4”: 79 cm (31”) 10’8”: 82 cm (32”) 12′: 82 cm (32”) |
| Thickness | 15 cm (6″) | 15 cm (6”) |
| Volume* (estimated) | 315 Liters | 9’8”: 250 Liters 10’4”: 270 Liters 10’8”: 290 Liters 12′: 320 Liters |
| Weight | 10.8 kg | 9’8”: 9.18 kg (20.24 lbs) 10’4”: 10.41 kg (22.95 lbs) 10’8”: 10.93 kg (24.09 lbs) 12′: 12.38 kg (27.29 lbs) |
| Accessories | Universal paddle Double action pump Seat Backpack Drybag 10 L Leash Repair kit US fin | Manual SUP Backpack 3-piece Fiberglass Paddle 3 removable Fins (Smartlock System) Double-Action Air Pump with Pressure Gauge Coiled Leash (spiral safety line) Waterproof Phone Case Repair Kit |
#1 Built & Material
Lidl Mistral SUP
- Construction: Emphasizes a wide design with a rounded nose for stability, catering to beginners.
- Material: Crafted from a single PVC layer using the Dropstitch technique, less stiff and robust than double-layer SUPs. Features two air chambers for additional rigidity and security.
Bluefin Cruise
- Construction: Utilizes Fusion construction with ESL Fusion-Layer for a balance of durability and lightness.
- Material Quality: Renowned for superior material, leveraging Fusion technology for enhanced durability and rigidity.
Takeaway: The construction and material quality of both boards serve different purposes. Lidl Mistral SUP is designed with simplicity and cost-effectiveness in mind, making it a good entry-level option. Bluefin Cruise, on the other hand, employs advanced construction techniques and materials, offering a more durable and high-performance experience, especially for intermediate paddlers.
#2 Weight Limit
Lidl Mistral SUP
The Lidl Mistral SUP, designed with beginners and casual users in mind, is ideal for calm water experiences such as lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Its wide and rounded design ensures high stability, making it a suitable choice for families, children, and novice paddlers.
Lidl recommends a maximum paddler weight of approximately 95 kg, offering a secure and stable experience for most users.
The board’s construction caters to those making their first forays into paddleboarding, providing the necessary safety and assurance.
Bluefin Cruise
The Bluefin Cruise series presents a versatile range of boards to accommodate a wide spectrum of users.
From the smallest 9’8″ model, designed for lighter individuals or youth, to the largest 12′ board, intended for larger paddlers or those carrying additional gear, the series ensures optimal performance and stability for every user.
Each size offers specific weight limits, allowing paddlers to choose a board that best fits their needs.
The boards are well-suited for both beginners and intermediates, providing a stable and enjoyable paddling experience.
Takeaway: Lidl Mistral SUP supports a stable and secure experience for beginners and lighter paddlers, while Bluefin Cruise offers a range of sizes with specific weight limits, accommodating a broader spectrum of users and ensuring optimal performance and stability for each individual.
#3 Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
Lidl Mistral SUP
- Beginner-Friendly: Specifically designed for newcomers to the sport.
- Stability: Its wide and stable design is reassuring for first-time paddlers.
- Versatility: Suitable for various calm water bodies, including lakes and slow rivers.
Bluefin Cruise
- All-Around Performance: Ideal for a range of conditions, balancing stability and glide.
- Board Options: Different sizes cater to all skill levels, with smaller boards being more agile.
- Touring Capability: Larger models offer better tracking and stability, suitable for longer excursions.
Takeaway: The Lidl Mistral SUP is ideal for beginners looking for a stable board for calm waters. In contrast, the Bluefin Cruise, with its versatile design and different size options, serves a wider range of paddling activities, from leisurely cruising to more ambitious touring, accommodating both beginners and more experienced paddlers.
#4 Design
Lidl Mistral SUP
The Lidl Mistral SUP features a relatively simple yet functional design. The top of the board is predominantly blue, while the bottom is kept plain in grey.
This color scheme is accented with the Mistral logo in blue outlines.
On the deck pad, the “mistral” lettering is displayed in white, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look.
The design is straightforward, focusing on utility and ease of use for beginners.
Bluefin Cruise
The Bluefin Cruise stands out with its sleek and streamlined design, available in various colors.
The deck pad combines black and grey tones, highlighted by the main color of the board, creating a stylish yet functional appearance.
The design incorporates manufacturer details and model information subtly, offering a practical look that’s visually appealing.
This design approach makes the Bluefin Cruise not just a high-performance board but also a stylish choice for paddlers.
Takeaway: Design-wise, Lidl Mistral SUP offers a functional and straightforward aesthetic, catering to beginners’ needs. Bluefin Cruise, however, stands out with its sleek and customizable design, reflecting a blend of style and practicality, appealing to a wider range of paddlers who value aesthetics along with performance.
#5 Features
Lidl Mistral SUP
- EVA Deck Pad: Equipped with a high-grip EVA foam deck pad, it provides excellent traction and comfort while standing. This feature is crucial for beginners who need stable footing.
- Cargo Net: A sizeable integrated cargo net at the front of the board offers ample space for storing gear, snacks, or a dry bag during paddling adventures.
- Triple-Fin Configuration: Although the side fins are non-removable, this three-fin setup aids in improving the board’s stability and tracking in the water.
- Durable Construction: Made with a standard single-layer PVC and Dropstitch construction, it provides a balance of durability and affordability.
- Safety Features: Includes safety essentials like a leash to keep the board tethered to the paddler, ensuring it doesn’t drift away if they fall off.
Bluefin Cruise
- Advanced Deckpad with Kickpad: Features an extensive, non-slip EVA foam deck pad that extends towards the rear, incorporating a kickpad for sharp turns and maneuvers.
- Innovative Three-Fin Setup: Equipped with a Smartlock System, the fins can be easily adjusted or removed for different water conditions, enhancing the board’s stability and tracking in the water.
- Noserocker Design: Specifically engineered to handle choppy water conditions, the noserocker design helps the board to cut through waves, providing a smoother ride.
- Versatile D-Ring Attachments: Multiple D-Rings are strategically placed around the board for attaching accessories, securing gear, or even converting the board into a kayak.
- Action-Cam Integration: With multiple action-cam mounts, the board is ready for adventurers who want to capture their journeys from various angles.
Takeaway: The Lidl Mistral SUP is equipped with basic yet functional features, making it a great choice for beginners and casual paddlers. Bluefin Cruise, on the other hand, boasts advanced features like an extended deckpad, noserocker design, and multiple action-cam mounts, catering to paddlers looking for a high-performance and feature-rich experience.
#6 Accessory
Lidl Mistral SUP
- Adjustable Paddle: Comes with a universal paddle that is adjustable in length, catering to different user heights and offering versatility in paddling styles.
- Double-Action Pump: The included pump inflates the board efficiently, working on both the push and pull actions.
- Kayak Seat and Paddle Conversion: Unique to this model, the package includes a kayak seat and an extra paddle blade, allowing for a quick transformation into a kayak setup.
- Backpack with Storage: The included backpack is spacious enough to store the rolled-up board and all accessories, making transportation and storage hassle-free.
- Dry Bag: A 10-liter dry bag is included for storing valuables and keeping them dry during paddling sessions.
- Safety Leash: A coiled leash is provided, keeping the board attached to the paddler for safety.
- Repair Kit: A handy repair kit is included for quick fixes, ensuring the board’s longevity and usability.
Bluefin Cruise
- High-Quality Fiberglass Paddle: The package includes a three-piece fiberglass paddle, known for its lightweight and durability. It’s adjustable to suit different paddler heights and preferences.
- Efficient Dual-Action Pump: The dual-action pump inflates the board quickly and effectively, featuring a pressure gauge for accurate inflation.
- Coiled Safety Leash: Ensuring safety, the coiled leash keeps the board within reach if the paddler falls into the water.
- Durable Backpack for Transport: The SUP comes with a robust backpack designed for easy transportation and storage of the board and its accessories.
- Waterproof Phone Case: A waterproof phone case is included for keeping your phone dry and accessible during your water adventures.
- Repair Kit: A comprehensive repair kit is provided for on-the-go fixes, extending the life of the board.
- Detailed Manual: The package includes a manual with guidelines for optimal use of the board and accessories, enhancing the overall paddling experience.
Takeaway: The Lidl Mistral SUP offers a basic yet functional set of features and accessories, ideal for beginners and casual paddlers. The Bluefin Cruise, in contrast, comes equipped with advanced features and high-quality accessories, catering to a more experienced paddler seeking performance and convenience.
FAQ
Which is better, Lidl Mistral SUP or Bluefin Cruise?
The choice between Lidl Mistral SUP and Bluefin Cruise depends on your specific needs. If you are a beginner seeking a stable and straightforward board for calm water experiences, the Lidl Mistral SUP is a solid choice. However, if you are looking for versatility and a board that can grow with your skills, the Bluefin Cruise, with its range of sizes and high-quality construction, might be the better option.
Who should pick the Lidl Mistral SUP and who the Bluefin Cruise?
The Lidl Mistral SUP is ideal for beginners and those looking for a stable, easy-to-use board for leisurely activities on calm waters. The Bluefin Cruise, on the other hand, caters to a broader range of paddlers, from beginners to intermediates, and is suitable for various conditions, including touring.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Lidl Mistral SUP and Bluefin Cruise offer distinct experiences tailored to different paddling needs.
The Lidl Mistral SUP is a great entry-level option for calm water paddling, offering stability and ease of use.
The Bluefin Cruise, with its variety in sizes and superior construction, provides versatility and is suitable for a broader range of paddling activities, including touring.
