Gili Paddle Board Reviews

Gili Sports was named after an archipelago in Indonesia, evidencing the company’s love for oceans and aquatic sports. The company strives to make high-quality stand-up paddleboards that leave customers feeling fully satisfied. For each successful sale, Gili donates some of its proceeds to charities that help take care of our oceans. Gili is one of the more environmentally conscious SUP Companies out there. 

Gili makes many different inflatable paddle boards. Each model has pros and cons, use cases, and unique features. 

For instance, the Gili Air series is the brand’s lightest SUP but the Manta 15’ is its heaviest. The Meno Touring 12’ 6” is a speedy, water-slicing option while the Adventure series boasts aquatic versatility. The Komodo is an excellent, steady yoga board, and the Mako is a well-balanced all-rounder for any collection.

Let’s take a look at ten different Gili SUP reviews in this series of Gili paddle boards. We will discuss what sets them apart from the rest, what divergent features they have, and whether or not they would be a worthwhile choice for you. We will also discuss some of the drawbacks of each board to bring you an honest review of each. 

Gili Paddle Board Reviews Line Up

In each Gili inflatable paddle board review, we will cover the specs of each board, who it best suits, how it performs, and more. We will mention what makes each model unique and how customers feel about them. At the end of each description, you will find a condensed list of the most critical pros and cons for each product.

To Jump to Each Section Click “Jump to Review” on the right under Price

BoardDimensionsWeightMax CapacityActivityPrice
10’6 AIR10’6” X 32 X 6”19 Lbs280 LbsRecreation/ Light Touring$$$

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Review
11’6″ Air11’6″ X 32 X 6″21 Lbs295 LbsRecreation/ Light touring$$$

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Review
10′ MAKO10’ X 32” X 6”20 Lbs260 LbsRecreation/ Light Touring$$$

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Review
11’ Adventurer11’ X 32” X 6”22 Lbs290 LbsRecreation/ Touring$$$$

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Review
12’ Adventurer12’ X 32” X 6”23 Lbs330 LbsRecreation/ Touring$$$$

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10’6” Komodo10’6” X 33” X 6”21 Lbs340 LbsRecreation/ Light Touring$$$

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Review
Komodo 1111′ X 32.5″ X 6″26 lBS410 lBSRecreational/ Kayaking/ Yoga$$$$$

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10’6” Meno10’6” X 35” X 6”23 Lbs450 LbsRecreational/ Yoga$$$$$

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Review
11’6” Meno11’6” X 35” X 6”24 Lbs485 LbsRecreational/ Yoga$$$$$

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12’6” Meno12’6” X 31” X 6”24 Lbs300 LbsTouring/ Recreation$$$$$

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Review
12’ Manta Ray12’ X 45” X 8”35 Lbs725 LbsMulti-Person$$$$$$

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Review
15’ Manta Ray15’ X 56” X 8”52 Lbs1150 LbsMulti-Person$$$$$$

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Review

Gili Air 10’ 6” and 11’6″ Series (Beginner Pick)

The Gili Air paddle board is a solid all-rounder pick for most use cases, making it a perfect choice for beginner and intermediate boarders. 

Specs

  • Length: 10’ 6”
  • Width: 31”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 19 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 280 lb
  • Materials: Military-strength single-layer PVC

Total Score: 7.5 (Average of Below Numbers of Air 11’6″)

  • On-Water Performance – 7.6
    • Stability 7.5
    • Tracking  7.5
    • Speed 8
    • Maneuverability 7.5
  • SUP Construction – 7
  • Board Features  – 7.7
    • Deck Pad 8
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8
    • Action Mounts: 7.5
    • Handles 7
  • Accessories – 7
    • Backpack 7.5
    • Paddle 6.5
    • Pump 6.5
    • Fins 7.5
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

Who Is It For?

The Gili Air series primarily suits beginners and new boarders. It has a cost-effective, lightweight design with a heavy emphasis on maneuverability, convenience, and adaptability. The SUP has an array of handles and wires and a traction pad. 

These elements work together to create a safe, secure boarding experience for new paddlers. 

On Water Performance

Being a lightweight board, the Gili Air 10’ 6” and 11’6″ is buoyant in the water. It has an all-around shape with wide features that helps improve stability and balance at the cost of some speed. The surface has a large traction pad that drastically reduces the risk of slipping. 

However, the Gili Air does not have the rigidity of a heavyweight board, and when using it on tumultuous waters, it might shake more than you like. Its stable shape reduces its maximum speed as well, so I recommend taking this SUP on flatwater adventures

Board Features and Design

One of the outstanding features of the Gili Air is its onboard storage options. It has two sets of bungee cords for holding equipment and plenty of grab handles. The package also comes with D-rings and a stylish and functional carry bag with even more compartments. Another feature that stands out is the extra-large traction pad and the diamond tail pad.

What Customers Think

The Gili Air series boards have accumulated thousands of happy customers. The model has a fair price and excellent quality. However, the single-action pump that comes with the SUP is sub-standard. Most customers elected to use their inflators instead of the packaged ones.

See the Full Detailed Gili Air 10’6″ Review here.

See the Full Detailed Gili Air 11’6″ Review here.

Pros

  • Awesome price,
  • 2-year warranty
  • Stable
  • Decent storage
  • Excellent beginner option

Cons

  • Not particularly fast or maneuverable
  • Not ideal on rough waters
  • Only single-layer PVC
  • Does not hold a lot of weight

Gili Mako 10’ Series (Small Paddler Pick)

The Mako 10’ is one of Gili’s smaller stand-up paddleboards. It has a respectable array of specs and a handful of helpful features to consider.

Specs

  • Length: 10’
  • Width: 32”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 20 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 260 lb
  • Materials: Dual-layer PVC

Total Score 8/10 (Average of Below Numbers)

  • On-Water Performance – 8
    • Stability 7.5
    • Tracking 7.5
    • Speed 7
    • Maneuverability 9
  • SUP Construction – 8
  • Board Features – 8
    • Deck Pad 8
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8.5
    • Action Mounts: 8.5
    • Handles 8
  • Accessories – 8
    • Backpack 8
    • Paddle 7.5
    • Pump 7
    • Fins 8.5
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

Who Is It For?

With a shorter length and a lower weight limit, the Mako 10’ series best suits shorter riders. Anyone 5’ 10” or under will effectively reap the benefits of the board’s stability and maneuverability. 

Since the Mako is wider and comes with 18 D-rings, it makes a nice board for converting to a kayak. Gili and other SUP manufacturers sell kayak seats that you can install on the paddleboard for a sit-down aquatic experience. 

On Water Performance

The more pointed shape of the Mako compared to the Gili Air lets it slice through the water at higher speeds. Even though it weighs slightly more, it’s still maneuverable, thanks to the carbon-fiber paddles that come with it. The Mako is also a more rigid board, supported by dual-layered PVC

The only disadvantage of the design is that it does not accommodate tall or heavy riders that well. You may have a shaky boarding experience if you are not in the intended range for this SUP. But if you are, it will serve you reliably on any body of water. 

Board Features and Design

Not many boards suit shorter riders, and this design feature is one of the most noteworthy qualities of the Mako 10’. Its added width makes it a great kayak, too. The package comes with 18 D-rings and two six-point bungee setups, allowing for plenty of onboard storage compared to other models. 

What Customers Think

Since the Mako 10’ was just released in late 2021 and isn’t on Amazon, there are not many critical reviews. But from what we’ve seen, customers love the width and security of the board. However, the lack of reviews may also have to do with its cost, which is about a hundred dollars more expensive than the Air 10’ 6”.

See the Full Detailed Gili Mako Review here.

Pros

  • Perfect for boarders under 5’ 10”
  • Firm and stable
  • Plenty of room for attachments
  • Kayak seat compatibility

Cons

  • Not ideal for tall or heavy riders
  • Not as much length to stand on
  • Only two color options
  • Not cheap enough to be a beginner board

Gili Adventure 11’ (Speed Pick)

The Gili Adventure 11’ is a long SUP with durable stats. It’s equipped to be able to handle a vast array of water activities including surfing, fishing, and standard paddle boating.

Specs

  • Length: 11’
  • Width: 32”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 22 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 290 lb
  • Materials: Laminated dual-layer PVC

Who Is It For?

The Adventure 11’ is perfect for advanced boarders who like a variety of different paddling uses. Action mounts and scotty mounts hold fishing rods, anchors, tackle racks, cup holders, and more. It even has an installation to help riders perform tricks on the ocean waves.

Due to its heavier specs, a tall and experienced paddleboarder can command it with the most ease. 

On Water Performance

This SUP prides itself on its speed. You can use the nine-inch racing fin that comes with the board to further enhance its movement. The pointed nose and curved rocker allow the Adventure 11’ to strongly cut through flat and rough water. 

It is a little heavy, however, so you need some serious power and experience to take advantage of its gliding ability. The board’s stability comes from its enhanced dual-layered PVC, traction pad, and rear kick pad. In the hands of a veteran paddleboarder, the Adventure 11’ can maneuver however the rider desires. 

Board Features and Design

The Adventure 11’ accommodates many attachments simultaneously and is one of the most convertible models on the market. It comes with many add-ons that other SUPs do not, including a paddle holder, 20 D-rings, and a fin designed for speed. The shining feature of the Gili Adventure 11’ is its versatility.

What Customers Think

Customers agree that the Adventure 11’ is the perfect choice for touring, fishing, paddling, surfing, and everything else. However, the trackpad on the SUP is not particularly effective or comfortable. In addition, the board and its add-ons come with lots of unnecessary, non-recyclable packaging. 

See the Full Detailed Gili Adventure 11 Review here.

Pros

  • High weight limit
  • Incredibly fast
  • Perfect for any aquatic adventures
  • Compatible with an entire catalogue of add-ons

Cons

  • Too expensive and difficult for beginners
  • Top surface isn’t the most comfortable
  • Takes a lot of power to use properly

Gili Adventure 12’ (Durable Pick)

The Gili Adventure 12’ is the brother of the eleven-foot model. Its long length and heavy weight capacity allow it to function more like a water cutting vessel than other SUPs. It is one of Gili’s most durable models, perfect for heavier riders or those who want to bring their dogs along for the ride

Specs

  • Length: 12’
  • Width: 32”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 23 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 330 lb
  • Materials: Laminated dual-layer PVC

Total Score: 8/10 (Average of Below Numbers)

  • On-Water Performance – 8.1
    • Stability 8
    • Tracking  8.5
    • Speed 8.5
    • Maneuverability 7.5
  • SUP Construction – 8
  • Board Features  – 8.1
    • Deck Pad 8
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8
    • Mounts: 8.5
    • Handles 8
  • Accessories – 7.75
    • Backpack 8
    • Paddle 8
    • Pump 7
    • Fins 8
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

Who Is It For?

Like the Adventure 11’, this board is the perfect companion for long and intense adventures on the water. It is perfect for fishing, surfing, kayaking, and more through its various attachments. With its generous weight limit, it can also hold fishing coolers, an anchor, your dog, or your child. 

On Water Performance

The Adventure 12’ is a considerably fast board, although its heavier weight and longer shape reduce its maximum speed compared to the smaller 11’. While a larger size has advantages of stability and better footing, it is slightly less maneuverable. Although it comes with a rear kick pad, performing tricks on the Adventure 12’ is harder than the smaller version. 

The premier advantages of the twelve-foot board are stability, size, and durability. 

Board Features and Design

Both of the Gili Adventure series paddleboards come with a unique fin box for racing as well as a fantastic number of D-rings and other mounts for accessories. It is difficult to find a SUP that is as versatile as this one. 

What Customers Think

The board’s traction pad isn’t that comfortable, and the Gili brand mounts do not accommodate accessories by other manufacturers. Despite that, the Adventure 12’ is fast, controls well enough, and can even suit more than one person. While the price is high, it has dutifully served each of the reviewing customers.

See the Full Detailed Gili Adventure 12 Review here.

Pros

  • Comfortable size fits you and your child/dog
  • Plenty of accessory and storage room
  • Does not sacrifice much speed
  • Two-year warranty

Cons

  • Too expensive for a beginner
  • Size is awkward for tricks
  • Traction pad isn’t comfortable

Gili Komodo 10’6” Series (All Around Pick)

The Gili Komodo is another versatile board, although it isn’t designed for action-based aquatic sports like the Adventure series. This SUP is more standard but suited for multiple riders, bringing pets, doing yoga, and relaxing flatwater day trips.

Specs

  • Length: 10’ 6”
  • Width: 33”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 21 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 340 lb
  • Materials: Dual Layer Fusion PVC

Total Score: 8.1 (Average of Below Numbers)

  • On-Water Performance – 8.5
    • Stability 8.5
    • Tracking 8.5
    • Speed 7.5
    • Maneuverability 8.5
  • SUP Construction – 8
  • Board Features – 8
    • Deck Pad 9
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8
    • Action Mounts: 7.5
    • Handles 7.5
  • Accessories – 8
    • Backpack 8
    • Paddle 7.5
    • Pump 7
    • Fins 8.5
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

Who Is It For?

The Komodo suits customers who enjoy paddleboarding as a leisurely sport. It isn’t the best for touring, but it is suitable for anyone who wants to sit out in the middle of the water with their kids or dogs. 

The extra width also grants room for activities like yoga and kayaking. The Komodo also makes a decent beginner board, although the price is somewhat high.

On Water Performance

The Komodo is light and easy to paddle. Its tapered nose and tail reduce drag so that it glides through the water easily. The durable triple-strength material and width give it plenty of stability, even with multiple passengers. Since the Komodo is a yoga SUP, its design stays upright and flat. However, this isn’t the board you want to take on rough water adventures

Board Features and Design

In addition to its 33-inch width, an outstanding feature of the Komodo is that the traction pad extends from the nose to the tail. It’s extremely comfortable, and you can even remove the front bungee storage net to make use of its entire length. Its unique triple-layer PVC body stays light while supporting a lot more weight than other boards

What Customers Think

The Komodo is a fantastic board all around, but customers have found some slight issues. The bag that comes with the package isn’t the best for storing everything you need, including the SUP itself. In addition, while the trackpad is soft and comfortable, animal claws scratch and dent it easily according to some customers.

See the Full Detailed Gili Komodo 10’6″ Review here.

Pros

  • Extra-wide
  • Perfect for bringing kids or pets
  • Does not sacrifice much speed
  • Comfortable top surface

Cons

  • One of Gili’s most expensive boards
  • Traction pad scratches easily
  • Storage bag isn’t exceptional
  • Only performs well on flat water

Gili Komodo 11′ (Kayak Hybrid Pick)

Specs

  • Length: 10’ 6”
  • Width: 32.5”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 26 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 410 lb
  • Materials: Dual Layer Fusion PVC

Total Score 8.3/10 (Average of Below Numbers)

  • On-Water Performance – 8.5
    • Stability: 9
    • Tracking: 8.5
    • Speed: 8
    • Maneuverability: 8.5
  • SUP Construction – 8
  • Board Features  – 8.4
    • Deck Pad: 9
    • D Rings: 9
    • Deck Bungees: 8
    • Action Mounts: 7.5
    • Handles: 8.5
  • Accessories – 8.6
    • Kayak Conversion Kit: 9
    • Backpack: 9
    • Paddle: 8
    • Pump: 7
    • Fins: 8
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8.5

Who Is It For?

The Gili Komodo is a great board for beginners or kayakers who are just getting their legs in the paddle boarding field. The Komodo 11′ comes with a full kayak hybrid kit which transforms your kayak into a fully fledged inflatable kayak.

This board can also be used by bigger SUP Yogis as well as be served as a tandem. Hint hint, if you love dogs the full deckpad is a great addition for your SUP put to wanter around the board while having plenty of grip on the board. For every board sold $650 of donations goes to dog rescue centers!

On Water Performance

The Gili Komodo 11 featured above average on-water perfomance when we tested the board on a cool Feburary day in southern B.C. The stability of the board was fantastic as it felt like you were standing on a stable platform the entire time paddling with no surprises.

The manueverability also stuckout to me as this board was able to a full 360 with reverse sweep strokes in 3 strokes! Which was an increadible reading. I should note though that these tests were done when the tide was coming in so take them with a grain of salt.

Board Features and Design

The thing that stands out most about this board is the fact that it has nylon loops all the way around the board. This is a great feature as it allows you to adjust the kayak seat and foot rest to the exact height you want.

The kayak conversion kit comes with a kayak seat, booster seat, inflatable foot rest and a kayak conversion paddle that goes into the handle portion of the 3 piece paddle. This is solid value and I really felt that the booster seat helped keep the pressure off of your back and legs while paddling.

What Customers Think

There has not been a lot of reviews done by customers just yet due to the fact that this board is still fairly new.

See the Full Detailed Gili Komodo 11′ Review here.

Pros

  • Kayak Conversion kit is well though out and is an improvment to most kayak kits that come with ISUPs
  • The board has excellent stability in the water
  • Solid board for beginners
  • Has good manueverability

Cons

  • One of Gili’s most expensive boards
  • It can be challenging snapping the foot rest to the nylon loops

Gili Meno 10’6” Series (Stable Pick)

The heavy-duty Gili Meno paddle boards are some of the brand’s most stable creations ever. Each can support two fully-grown riders or up to around 450 pounds.

Specs

  • Length: 10’ 6”
  • Width: 35”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 23 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 450 lb
  • Materials: Laminated dual-layer PVC with a carbon-fiber rail

Who Is It For?

The Meno series board is a jack of all trades that almost anyone can use. Its extreme width and durability make it incredibly stable, to the delight of beginner boarders. 

It is superb at accommodating more than one rider at a time, several pets, or several kids. The package comes with a unique fin set that converts the SUP to suit different performance needs.

On Water Performance

The Meno’s pointed nose and tail help it to glide in the water. The packaged snap-in fin sets help the SUP excel in rivers or gain more speed. Together with the fins, it can reach speeds rivalling the Adventure 11’, provided that you have enough power. 

It isn’t the most lightweight board, so maneuverability depends on the strength of the paddler.

Regarding stability, the board is extremely rigid and stable thanks to its carbon-fiber railing. Its high weight limit and width make it feel more like a small boat.

Board Features and Design

In addition to its raw dimensions, the most outstanding feature of the Meno 10’ 6” is its fin box. The kit includes a 9-inch race fin, a 4.5-inch speed fin, and a 3-inch river fin. This is one of the few SUP packages that does this. So if On-Water performance is your jam, this is a great pick!

Between these snap-in options, you can customise the Meno to your specifications, no matter which water you are riding in. 

The SUP bag also comes with wheels for rolling rather than a standard tote.

What Customers Think

There are some slight drawbacks to the Meno series boards. The SUP’s velcro paddle straps come off easily and can get lost in the water. In addition, the traction pad isn’t that firm. Despite those issues, the paddleboard works well, is comfortably steady, and supports a lot of weight with ease.

Pros

  • Extreme width grants a lot of room
  • Multiple adults can ride without worry
  • Deluxe fin kit for customizability

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Velcro straps come loose
  • Needs a lot of power to pilot

Gili Meno 11’6” Series (Heavy Paddler Pick)

The Meno 11’ 6” is an even more heavyweight version of the 10’ 6”.

Specs

  • Length: 11’ 6”
  • Width: 35”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 24 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 485 lb
  • Materials: Laminated dual-layer PVC with a carbon-fiber rail

Total Score: 8.3 (Average of Accumulated Ratings Below)

  • On-Water Performance – 8.1
    • Stability 9.5
    • Tracking 8
    • Speed 8
    • Maneuverability 7
  • SUP Construction – 9
  • Board Features  – 8.3
    • Deck Pad 8
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8.5
    • Action Mounts 8.5
    • Handles 8.5
  • Accessories – 8.5
    • Backpack 8.5
    • Paddle 8.5
    • Pump 8
    • Fins 9
  • Set-Up/ Take Down – 8

Who Is It For?

The Meno 11’ 6”  is a fantastic board for heavy riders who want extra stability or anyone who wants to bring several pets or kids on their adventures. Whether you want to paddle on flat water, rivers, or anywhere else, this adaptable model will support you and your crew.

On Water Performance

Just like the other Meno, the SUP is wide, rigid, and stable. But because of its high weight and carbon reinforcements, it requires a lot of paddling power. It does not reach speeds as fast as the Meno 10’ 6”, but it can still glide freely using the bundled fins. 

Board Features and Design

The 11-foot length and 35-inch width give passengers plenty of room to move around on the SUP. The dimensions make this Meno the largest Gili inflatable paddle board that isn’t specifically designed for more than one person. Between that and the convertible fin kit, the Meno series has a vast amount of versatility.

What Customers Think

The Meno 11’ 6” is incredibly stable, if not slightly heavy. It has the same drawbacks as the smaller model, including the velcro strips and traction pad. In addition, the packaged pump is not that effective. It is difficult to use and does not show the inflatable’s current PSI value. You may want to use a more reliable pump for the board.

See the Full Detailed Gili Meno 11’6″ Review here.

Pros

  • Extremely heavyweight
  • Rolling travel bag
  • Extra wide for comfort and security
  • Unique fin box for versatility

Cons

  • Sacrifices speed and maneuverability for size
  • Might be heavier and bulkier than you need
  • Packaged pump is lackluster

Gili Meno 12’6” Touring Series (Touring Pick)

Despite sharing a name with the previous two boards, the 12’ 6” is a drastically different iSUP regarding design and intended purpose.

Specs

  • Length: 12’ 6”
  • Width: 31”
  • Thickness: 6”
  • Weight: 24 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lb
  • Materials: Laminated dual-layer PVC with a carbon-fiber rail

Total Score: 8.4/10 (Average of Below Scores)

  • On-Water Performance – 8.25
    • Stability 8
    • Tracking 9
    • Speed 9
    • Maneuverability 7
  • SUP Construction – 9
  • Board Features  – 8.4
    • Deck Pad 8.5
    • D Rings 8
    • Deck Bungees 8.5
    • Action Mounts 8
    • Handles 9
  • Accessories – 8.5
    • Backpack 8.5
    • Paddle 8.5
    • Pump 8
    • Fins 9
  • Set-Up/ Take Down 8

Who Is It For?

Touring boards reach high speeds and cover large distances. They are also perfect for longer trips and can handle rough waters. The Meno 12’ 6” suits riders who want to reach high speeds and travel far. It cannot carry much weight, so the 12’ 6” is best for a single paddler, unlike the previous two models.

On Water Performance

The rigid, pointed shape of the nose and tail virtually eliminates drag. With the packaged speed fin, the Meno 12’ 6” stand-up paddleboard can reach even higher speeds. Despite its fast speed, it does not compromise stability. Carbon-fibre rails give the board a rigid shape and firmness. 

While moving at high speeds is fun, the board can be too tippy for some beginners. Be sure that you have enough skill to operate a touring model to avoid accidents.

Board Features and Design

The Meno 12’ 6” is one of the longest and thinnest Gili boards. It has a low volume and comes with a 3-stage dual-chambered pump that makes inflating easy. Since it is a high-speed solo SUP, it also has action mounts on the nose and tail for dynamic cameras or other equipment.

What Customers Think

Customers of all skill levels love the Meno 12’ 6” for its stability, speed, and action mounts. However, in some cases, the included fins do not fit into it particularly well, and the inflatable SUP does not drain easily. Despite those issues, this Gili model is an awesome touring board with high durability and ease of access.

See the Full Detailed Gili Meno 12’6″ Review here.

Pros

  • Thin, long shape for high speeds
  • Reinforced carbon-fiber rail
  • Better manual pump than other models

Cons

  • Can be difficult for beginners
  • Only comes in one color
  • Expensive for a solo board

Gili Manta 12’ (Multi-Person Pick)

The Gili Manta series boards are multi-passenger SUPs with two slots for kayak seats, two paddles, and two pumps. The price may save money over buying a pair of separate iSUPs, depending on the model.

Specs

  • Length: 12’
  • Width: 45”
  • Thickness: 8”
  • Weight: 35 lb
  • Weight Capacity: 725 lb
  • Materials: Military-grade single-layer PVC

Who Is It For?

The Manta series is best suited for boarders who want to bring their friends along for a leisurely paddleboarding adventure. Alternatively, the SUP makes a functional two-person kayak. It supports convertible attachments for fishing, anchoring, and more.

On Water Performance

Despite coming with a speed fin for shallow water, the board is slow. Its length, width, weight, and thickness can only be effectively controlled by two experienced paddlers. 

I would not advise taking the Manta out by yourself, but it excels in leisurely flatwater excursions. Thanks to several attachable underside fins, the Manta 12’ has respectable tracking.

Stability is its area of expertise. The dimensions of the board are comfortable for each rider.

Board Features and Design

The Manta package comes with two of most features, including pumps, paddles, and pressure valves. The SUP bundle has everything you need for a full two-person adventure. The Manta series boards are the only Gili products with two inflation valves, allowing you and your friend to pump it up quickly. 

What Customers Think

Customers agree that the Manta is a fun party SUP, but also that it should never be anyone’s only board. It is difficult to operate alone but is adequate for family trips, large entourages, or lots of pets. 

Pros

  • Price is more cost-effective than getting two separate SUPs
  • Width is comfortable and conducive to balance
  • Accommodates your entire family or entourage 
  • Two pumps to inflate quickly

Cons

  • Not worth getting if you only paddle solo
  • Comes in only one color
  • Heavily limited speed and maneuverability

Gili Manta 15’ (Party Pick)

This SUP is the 15-foot variant of the previous Manta 12’.

Specs

  • Length: 15’
  • Width: 56”
  • Thickness: 8”
  • Weight: 52 lbcomes with
  • Weight Capacity: 1150 lb
  • Materials: Military-grade single-layer PVC

Who Is It For?

The fifteen-foot Manta is perfect for anyone who wants to take as many as five or six fully-grown adults out on the water. Measuring almost five feet in width, it hosts as many people as you like. That is why they call it a “party SUP.” Consider that the higher the weight, the more difficult the board is to paddle. 

The Manta 15’ is too wide for kayaking, so it is best for flatwater adventures at leisurely speeds.

On Water Performance

It’s no surprise that the Manta 15’ is slow, being Gili’s largest and heaviest inflatable SUP. It does not track, glide, or maneuver well when the board’s weight is near capacity. In addition, it requires a lot of power to pilot. While the package comes with two paddles, you may need more to reach acceptable speeds. 

On the other hand, it feels incredibly stable. The Manta 15’ is an alright board for bringing someone nervous to be out on the water.

Board Features and Design

Like the Manta 12’, this SUP package has two of most commodities. It also comes with 22 D-rings, which is the most packaged with any model yet. 

To accommodate the SUP’s large size, the carry tote is a rolling duffel bag rather than a standard backpack. Both Manta boards have carry handles on the sides to help lift them after inflation.

What Customers Think

Customers think it’s a decent board that suits many people. The Manta 15’ is a SUP that you want to keep in your collection for parties or family events, but not one that you want to use all the time. It takes a lot of power to use and is difficult for one person.

Pros

  • Accommodates your entire family or entourage 
  • Two pumps to inflate quickly
  • Incredibly stable

Cons

  • Not worth getting if you only paddle solo
  • Comes in only one color
  • Highly limited speed and maneuverability
  • Nearly five-foot width is awkward for some activities
  • Seriously heavy and bulky

Gili Add-On Accessories

Here are some Gili brand SUP accessories that compliment most or all of the boards.

  • Dolphin snap-in center fins
  • 9″ Race Fin
  • 4.5″ Speed Fin
  • 3″ River Fin
  • Bluetooth Speaker
  • Rod Holder
  • Action Camera Mount
  • Detachable paddleboard and kayak seat
  • Kayak conversion kits
  • 12-volt electric pump
  • Rolling backpack

Securing your valuables while you are out on the water is a priority, which is why so many customers secure them with Gili waterproof containers. Other items like the electric pump are more convenient than the packaged analog inflators, saving you time on each excursion. 

Gili’s dolphin fin is a large, commanding add-on that cuts through the water. It’s compatible with most of the brand’s paddleboards and is a useful add-on to consider if you want better tracking.

Dry bags are one of the most popular accessories that customers love. They are cost-efficient, reusable, and effective at protecting valuables like your wallet and keys while on the water. For convenience, many customers look to the Gili 12-volt electric pump that allows them to inflate faster and get started adventuring.

Gili Customer Service

On Facebook reviews, Gili has a 3.8-star rating among 23 customers. The brand’s customer service varies from case to case, but the perception is generally positive. Company representatives are active on their website and Facebook page and tend to respond to customers quickly

On both Facebook and their website, Gili customers have reported shipping issues. Staff members often resolve the issues quickly at no extra cost. You will likely have a positive customer service experience with Gili if you consider that their service and shipping may take time to complete depending on where you live. 

Gili Warranty and Returns Info

Every Gili paddle board has a two-year warranty and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Gili requests that when you file a warranty claim you submit photos of the problem. They will respond to your issue within a few business days, but claims without photos are subject to delays. 

Defects happen in the manufacturing process, so Gili’s two-year warranty will cover any such production problems. However, the warranty does not apply to issues caused by:

  • The customer during transport, 
  • in improper SUP use cases
  • Other mishandling scenarios. 
  • Regular wear and tear do not constitute defects.

Accessories have different warranties between 90 days and a year. Like with the SUPs, they do not cover issues caused by improper use or maintenance. 

If you receive a damaged product, you must reject the shipment or file a business claim within three days to avoid shipping costs. 

Returns are active for any board for 60 days. However, you must pay shipping costs and a restocking fee for returning a product. It must be in like-new condition with no horrible wear or other damages to be accepted. Returns from Alaska and Hawaii incur an additional fee. 

Compared to other brands, Gili has a generous return period of 60 days. However, other more expensive brands have longer active warranties. When you shop for a stand-up paddleboard, be sure to keep these policies in mind to protect your investments.

Where to Buy Gili Paddle Boards

You can purchase Gili paddle boards on their website or Amazon. Amazon offers flat rates on each model, but the brand’s website frequently offers promotions that cut the costs on SUPs. Be sure to check out both sites before you buy one to get the best possible deal. 

Gili ships free to the continental United States. Alaska and Hawaii residents must pay an additional fee. International shipping is available, but rates vary at checkout. 

Similar Paddle Board Manufacturers

Due to the popularity of iSUPs, there are many manufacturers comparable to Gili. iRocker and Nixy are two brands worth considering. Each manufacturer specialises in different types of SUPs. 

iRocker

iRocker Sport Pic

iRocker makes solo inflatable paddle boards and hard boards. The brand offers 60-day returns and 3-year warranties on all products with some exclusions. The prices are comparable to Gili, the cheapest being $444.99. iRocker is another reliable option with high-quality SUPs and accessories.

iRocker features 9 different paddle board lines to choose from.

See our Detailed iRocker Paddle Board Reviews here.

Nixy

Nixy Choppy Water

Nixy offers plenty of reliable SUPs, some in smaller sizes than Gili offers. The brand’s prices are towards the middle and their website offers some generous sales of over 30% off on certian occasions. Nixy products have two-year warranties, but the return period is only 30 days. Nixy only makes solo boards, but each SUP is fast and maneuvers well.

Nixy offers 5 different paddle board lines to choose from.

See our Detailed Nixy Paddle Board Reviews here.

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