An inflatable SUP is designed with smart engineering. Its lightweight and compact design is combined with stability, stiffness and durability to perform well on the water.
The Core: Drop-Stitch Technology
The core of every inflatable SUP is made using Drop-Stitch technology. The upper and lower fabric layers are connected by thousands of thin polyester threads. When the board is inflated, these threads keep it flat and stable instead of expanding like a balloon.
This creates a board that can handle high air pressure between 13 and 15 PSI and delivers stiffness similar to a hardboard.
Benefits of Drop-Stitch technology
- High stiffness with low weight
- Compact storage and easy transport
- Durable and keeps its shape with regular use
This technology is standard in all MINT LAMA inflatable SUP boards and forms the base for the different types of construction that follow.
The Layers: Single Layer, Double Layer and Fusion SUP constructions
Single Layer
With single layer construction, one layer of PVC is applied directly to the Drop-Stitch core. This design keeps the board lightweight which makes it ideal for beginners, families and recreational paddlers.
The downside of single layer SUP boards is that they have less stiffness and lower resistance to damage. Because of that they are best used on calm water and for shorter paddling tours.
Typical MINT LAMA single layer model: Alpaka 11’0"
Double Layer
With double layer construction, a second layer of PVC is laminated or heat bonded to the first layer. This makes the board more robust and gives it higher stiffness and longer durability.
Double layer SUP boards are ideal for touring, rivers and paddlers who want more stability.
MSL Technology (Fusion Layer)
MSL technology also called Fusion Layer construction is the most advanced method used in the SUP industry today. Instead of using glue, two PVC layers are fused together using heat and pressure. This results in maximum stiffness while keeping the board lightweight.
Fusion SUP boards are UV resistant and extremely durable. They keep their shape even after many years of use.
Typical MINT LAMA models with Fusion construction: SUPreme 11’6" and Racer 12’6"
The Finish: Rails, Stringer and Deck Pad
Besides the inner construction, finishing details also play an important role in performance and durability.
Rails: Reinforced edges on the sides of the board improve stability and protect against wear and scratches. All MINT LAMA SUP boards are built with reinforced rails.
Stringer: Some boards like the Family 10’6" and Adventourer 11’6" include a stringer that runs along the center of the board. The stringer increases stiffness without adding much weight.
Deck Pad: The EVA deck pad is non-slip and comfortable. It offers grip and shock absorption which is especially useful on longer tours or when paddling in choppy conditions.
MINT LAMA SUP Model Overview
Alpaka 11’0" | Single Layer | Affordable, agile, durable | Ideal for Recreational paddlers
Adventourer 11’6" | Single Layer with Stringer | Stable, durable, smooth glide | Ideal for Touring and longer trips
Family 10’6" | Single Layer with Stringer | Lightweight, stable, compact | Ideal for Families and beginners
SUPreme 11’6" | Fusion Layer (MSL Drop-Stitch) | Very stiff, lightweight, premium feel | Ideal for Advanced paddlers and pros
Racer 12’6" | Fusion Layer (MSL Drop-Stitch) | Stiff, fast, efficient | Ideal for Experienced paddlers and racers
Which SUP construction is right for you
The construction of your SUP board determines how it feels on the water, how long it lasts and for what conditions it is best suited.
- Single layer SUP boards are lightweight and practical which makes them ideal for beginners.
- Double layer SUP boards offer more stability and durability which makes them a good choice for ambitious paddlers.
- Fusion SUP boards are the premium option and deliver maximum performance and long lasting quality.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional paddler, with a MINT LAMA inflatable SUP you will always find the perfect board for your next water adventure.