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iROCKER Cruiser Ultra iSUP Review, 2024

iROCKER Cruiser Ultra Inflatable Paddleboard

9.8

Overall Rating

9.8/10

Pros

  • The most compact and portable Cruiser SUP on the market
  • Highest level of stability out of the Ultra series
  • Overall improved performance from iROCKER’s original Cruiser 10’6
  • Included 12V Electric Pump adds a lot of value to this kit
  • Added stiffness due to upgraded construction
  • Versatile features without crowding the SUP deck

Cons

  • We’d appreciate if iROCKER extended the deckpad to the tail for more grip during stepback turns
  • In the future, we’d like to see the 5-piece paddle adjustable to shorter heights
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The iROCKER Cruiser Ultra is lighter, faster, and stiffer than their original Cruiser.

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The iROCKER Cruiser Ultra was the last SUP of iROCKER’s new Ultra line to be paddled through our testing, and we thought we knew what to expect. However, it actually took us quite a bit of thought to determine how best to describe this SUP.

What we eventually settled on was this: the Cruiser Ultra may be the truest all-around out of the entire Ultra series. It combines stability with maneuverability, while still being capable of decent tracking to allow for a bit of speed. The Cruiser Ultra takes the benefits of the high-volume standard Cruiser 10’6, and eliminates some of the drawbacks that came with a heavier construction. For these reasons, the Cruiser Ultra has become one of the easiest boards we have that we can recommend to just about anyone.

Being 10’6 long and 33” wide, the Cruiser Ultra is clearly geared toward stability, though its lightweight build and rigid construction add a bit more to this SUP. Despite its high volume, we found the Cruiser Ultra to be much more maneuverable and require less overall effort to get going up to speed and moving down the line. It’d be a great fit for paddlers who are looking for the compact, portability that iROCKER’s Ultra series has come to offer, without forgoing the ability to load this SUP with gear, bring aboard an extra (smaller) passenger, or otherwise just have a really easy-going and relaxing experience on the water.

We think the iROCKER Cruiser 10’6 Ultra would be great for paddlers who

  • Want a stable, high-volume SUP while still enjoying the benefits of a compact board
  • Prefer a more laid back paddling experience, rather than an intensive workout
  • Need a true all-around that’s capable in every facet of performance
  • Need a SUP that will perform in flat water, chop, ocean waves, and slow moving rivers
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024

iROCKER Cruiser 10’6 Ultra: Spec Sheet

  • Main Category: All-Around, Inflatable
  • Board Dimensions: 10’6 x 33” x 6”
  • Listed Board Weight: 21 lbs
  • Listed Max Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Recommended PSI: 12-16 PSI
  • Fins: 9” Twin-fins w/ snap-lock fin box and locking tether
  • Paddle: 5-piece w/ carbon shaft and nylon blade
  • Materials: Triple layer composite PVC w/ woven dropstitch core
  • Price Range: High
  • Warranty: 3 years

Performance Review of the iROCKER Cruiser 10’6 Ultra Stand Up Paddle Board

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Cruiser Ultra is well suited to paddlers who prioritize stability, but still want a compact SUP.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Compared to the original, the Cruiser Ultra’s maneuverability has been improved by the lighter build.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Being just 21 lbs, the Cruiser Ultra is fairly easy to change direction and makes for a relaxing and easy-going paddling experience.

Overall Score: [9.6/10]

  • Stability: 9.2/10
  • Speed: 9.0/10
  • Tracking: 8.9/10
  • Maneuverability: 9.1/10
  • Construction Quality: 9.8/10
  • Features/Accessories: 8.6/10

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Stability Rating: [9.2/10]

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
At 10’6 long and 33” wide, the iROCKER Cruiser Ultra is the most stable of the iRocker Ultra series (The Blackfin XL Ultra is the most stable out of all the Ultras).

With the original Cruiser Ultra, we noticed a small stability decrease when compared to iRocker’s previous ‘original’ Cruiser series. However, with the Cruiser 2.0, iRocker increased the width to a full 33”, which makes the 2.0 version more stable than the 1.0 – and even a little more stable than the original series.

We’d recommend the Cruiser 2.0 for any beginner paddler under 220-230 lbs and 6’4’ish or less, or for paddlers who are mostly concerned with being able to stand up and paddle vs sit down and paddle (trust us, SUP as a sport is much more fun when standing!).

Speed Test: 9.0/10

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Top Sprint Speed:5.25 MPH
Average Cruising Speed:4.2 MPH
SUP Board Guide’s Speed Testing:
To obtain our speed test results, we use a Speed Coach Sup 2. This gives us accurate readings on how fast we are paddling and our current stroke rates. For the top sprint speed, we paddle as hard as we can for approximately 10-15 seconds and then record our average speed. For the casual test, we paddle at 40-35 strokes per minute for approximately 30-60 seconds and record the average speed.

Being the widest, most stable of the bunch, we did not expect the Cruiser Ultra to be a rocket on the water.

That being said, we definitely did notice a speed increase when compared to the iROCKER’s original Cruiser 10’6. We credit the Cruiser Ultra’s lighter build (21 lbs vs the original’s 25 lbs) in making the Cruiser Ultra a bit quicker off the jump. Another contributor is likely a new twin fin set-up, as it does improve the Cruiser Ultra’s tracking compared to the non-compact version and in theory could reduce some drag going from 3 fins to 2.

In our sprint test, Justin was able to cruise at a solid 4.2 mph, and sprint at a top speed of 5.25 mph, which is really good for a slightly wider all-around SUP, and even better for a cruiser style board.

How do those numbers compare to the 10’ Ultra and 11’ Ultra? The Cruiser Ultra was just a little slower than the 11’ All Around, but a little faster than the 10’ All Around (note: smaller paddlers will likely be faster on the 10’ AA than the Cruiser).

Tracking: 8.9/10

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
We’ve found the new twin fin system to greatly improve the tracking on the Ultra series compared to the original line or iROCKER SUPs.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
With good form, the Cruiser will track surprisingly well, and is even more forgiving if you’re more casual in your stroke.

As with every SUP in the Ultra series the Cruiser Ultra’s tracking has been notably improved from the original, non-compact Cruiser 10’6.

Tracking is the main area where the newly added 9” twin fin set-up plays a fairly large role. They seem to grip a lot more water than the 2+1 fin set-up, and make the SUP hold a straight line more naturally, even if your form is not 100% honed in. Though it is important to note here that tracking and maneuverability (which we’ll discuss below) typically end up being trade-offs, so a SUP with really great tracking won’t often be exceptionally maneuverable and vice versa. However, we haven’t noticed that trade-off to be super dramatic on the Ultra Cruiser 2.0.

I also want to note that because the Cruiser Ultra is the widest of the series, it doesn’t display quite the same level of tracking as the narrower Ultra SUPs, but it’s a pretty marginal difference. Realistically, we were only able to notice it because we count how often we need to switch sides during testing, and the Cruiser Ultra required just 1-2 more switches than the other Ultra boards.

Maneuverability: 9.1/10

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Justin found it easy to sink the tail of the Cruiser in a stepback turn, though we’d appreciate some deck pad cover on the tail.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Again, the lighter Cruiser Ultra is fairly easy-going in both forward sweeping and casual backstroke turns.

Like most aspects of its performance, the Cruiser Ultra’s maneuverability is improved from the original iROCKER Cruiser 10’6.

We’d credit the Cruiser Ultra’s lighter build for its added maneuverability. Being 21 lbs compared to the original Cruiser’s 25 lbs, it requires much less effort from the paddler in both forward sweeping and backstroke turns, and the wide tail provides a lot of stability during a stepback turn. Our one suggestion to iROCKER would be to somehow incorporate a raised kick pad on the tail of the Cruiser Ultra, or even just extend the deck pad all the way back to the tail as it is on the original version.

Compared to the other Ultra SUPs, the Cruiser Ultra is expectedly a bit less maneuverable than the 10’ Ultra, but more maneuverable than 11’ Ultra. It comes very close in maneuverability to the Blackfin CX Ultra, despite being a wider, higher volume all-around; the Blackfin CX Ultra still beats it by a hair due to its slightly narrower shape and tapered tail.

Construction Quality: 9.8/10

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The entire Ultra series is significantly lighter than their original counterparts.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
iROCKER reinforces their seams with a strip of seam tape with the goal of improving durability.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Cruiser Ultra’s center handle is offset to allow for folding up the middle of the SUP, but is still comfortable to carry.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Ultra series SUPs are constructed with ‘woven’ drop stitch, adding rigidity but cutting weight.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
One of the only issues we’ve ever had with iROCKER SUPs is that sometimes the deck pad glue loses its hold over time. Luckily it’s easy enough to fix w/ a bit of PVC glue.

One of the main differences between the Ultra series and iROCKER’s original line is a lighter overall build. Of course, the first question we asked iROCKER upon receiving these boards is how exactly the construction changed in order to cut about 4 lbs per board.

The answer was actually less drastic than we had thought; each Ultra SUP still has the same triple layer composite PVC outer shell that the original line is produced with, but it’s the inner drop stitch core that is different. Instead of using linearly oriented drop stitch threads, iROCKER opted for ‘X’ oriented, or ‘woven’ drop stitch, in the Ultra series. This switch allows them to achieve a slightly higher level of rigidity, while still using less material.

We’d also estimate that some of the weight loss can be accounted for in small tweaks to the actual PVC material, despite the number of layers being the same, but iROCKER is a bit more tight-lipped about this. Other than that, there’s bound to be weight reductions in the smaller touches such as the Ultra’s split deck pad versus the original line’s full length deckpad, the smaller fin boxes, and minor changes in added features.

The bottom line though, is that the Cruiser Ultra and the entire Ultra series is a bit more rigid, and a bit higher performing than their original counterparts, and we’re super impressed with the compact design.

Board Stiffness:

iROCKER Cruiser Ultra 2.0 iSUP bendtest
The iROCKER Cruiser Ultra before loading 150 lbs onto the midpoint.
iROCKER Cruiser Ultra 2.0 iSUP bendtest
The Cruiser Ultra bent just over an inch under 150 lbs.

Stiffness Test: 1.0625 ” Bend

SUP Board Guide’s Bend Testing:
In order to attest to the rigidity of each board, we use a bend test curated by Supboardguide.com. In order to obtain the results, we inflate the board to its maximum recommended PSI and then place it across two sawhorses that are 7 feet apart. We then take a measurement in the middle of the board. Then, we place 150 lbs worth of sandbags on the middle top of the SUP. Last, we record its displacement (the movement from its original position). We use this method for every board we test as a way to mathematically compare boards across a common denominator.

Our stiffness test is performed by placing the SUP on top of two sawhorses that are set 7’ apart. We then take one measurement before and after loading 150 lbs onto the board’s midpoint (usually across the center handle). Of course, this test does not mimic the SUP’s behavior on the water, but it’s an unbiased way for us to understand how certain construction methods effect stiffness and overall performance of each paddleboard.

The Cruiser Ultra bent just a bit over 1” during our, which is about on par with the rest of the Ultra series, and fairly similar to the performance of the original line. On the water, the Cruiser Ultra feels a bit more rigid and responsive than iROCKER’s original Cruiser.

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Features/Accessory Review: [9.8/10]

Though not quite as feature heavy as the original iROCKER Cruiser, the Cruiser Ultra still has a healthy balance of versatile features.

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Cruiser Ultra clearly looks a bit different than the original Cruiser, but it still sports some of the same features.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
iROCKER’s Ultra series utilize a pair of longer, skinny fins. Because the finboxes are so small, iROCKER was able to cut more weight here and improve the packability of this SUP.

The twin fin system on the iROCKER Ultra series has accounted for improved tracking across the board, notably so for the Cruiser Ultra.

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The front cargo area on the Cruiser Ultra is roughly the same size as the original and still houses the two extra grab handles. Here you can also see the clip on the bungee, that allows for easy removal and rethreading.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Both the valve and the third action mount/d-ring are off-set on the Cruiser Ultra to enable folding up the middle.

The Cruiser Ultra is equipped with fully removable front and rear cargo areas, kayak seat compatible D-rings, and 3 multi-use action mounts, 2 of which are integrated into the front D-rings and the third located on the right side of the tail.

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Cruiser Ultra’s deck pad is super comfortable, but grippy at the same time thanks to iROCKER’s brand stamping.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
Here you can see the Cruiser Ultra’s split deckpad, and off-set center handle. We would like to eventually see iROCKER shift the center handle just a hair closer to the center of the board, but for now, it’s fully functional.

We also really love the comfort and grip of the Cruiser Ultra’s grooved and brand stamped EVA deck pad, though you’ll notice it is split down the middle to allow the board to fold ‘hotdog style’ before being rolled up and packed away.

Our one suggestion to iROCKER would be to extend the deck pad further back to the tail to provide even more grip during step back turns or just otherwise give paddlers a bit more room to move about the board. We’d also really appreciate it if iROCKER could somehow incorporate a raised kick pad, but realize that can be a challenge on a compact board.

Included Accessories:

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
From left to right: 10’ coiled leash, compact SUP backpack, iROCKER 12V electric Pump, accessory pouch
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Ultra series paddle breaks down into 5 pieces, allowing it to fit into the compact backpack.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
iROCKER incorporated a new locking mechanism to their fins which gives some added peace of mind that you won’t lose them.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
The Ultra’s compact backpack is our favorite pack to date. We would like to see iROCKER add a side handle though.
iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024
This packs straps and back panel are well padded, making it super comfortable to carry.

As we’ve stated in each of the Ultra SUPs’ reviews, we’re extremely impressed with the kit’s functionality and overall value. Included with the iROCKER Cruiser Ultra are the following accessories:

  • 5-piece carbon shaft paddle w/ a nylon blade
  • iROCKER 12V Electric Pump
  • 9” snap-lock fins w/ locking tether (x2)
  • 10’ coiled leash w/ key pocket
  • Accessory Pouch
  • Compact roll-top/front zip backpack

At this point, we feel like we’ve harped on this a lot, but we love iROCKER’s decision to include their 12V Electric Pump with the Ultra series boards. This pump has been one of our favorites over the years and has somehow withstood the less-than-careful treatment we inflict upon it. Its inclusion in this kit singlehandedly adds a ton of value overall, and will account for a much more enjoyable paddling experience than any manual hand-pump could provide. We also really love the small accessory pouch; it’s perfect for storing your fins, leash, pump, hose, and any other tiny accessories that are a pain to dig around for in a larger SUP bag.

Though the real star of the show is iROCKER’s new compact SUP backpack. The entire front panel of this 2’ x 1’ bag unzips, making it super easy to just place the rolled up SUP inside. There are also pockets to store your 5-piece paddle on either side of the interior of the SUP bag. Once re-zipped, the top opening of the bag can be then used as a roll-top. This is when we load in our accessory pouch (right on top of the SUP in an easy-to-reach spot), towels, a change of clothes, etc. When closed, the exterior of the bag also provides some storage options with a total of 3 external pouches, adjustable bungees on the front panel, and molly loops on the shoulder straps that are perfect for clipping on a water bottle or keys.

The only improvements we’d like to see iROCKER make to the Ultra line’s kit would be to re-work the 5-piece paddle to make it able to adjust to a shorter height. I’m 5’2” and the paddle is just a bit too tall for me, even at its shortest height. Of course, it’s still functional if I’m going for a more casual paddle, but I would like to shorten it a few inches if I were aiming for speed or wanted to keep a more aggressive form. We would also appreciate iROCKER providing more fin options for the Ultra line, as the shorter, snap-lock fin-box doesn’t allow for a ton of customization.

Summary Review of the iROCKER Cruiser Ultra

iROCKER Cruiser 10'6 Ultra 2.0 iSUP Review 2024

In short, there’s a lot to love about the iROCKER’s Cruiser Ultra. It takes the relaxing experience that the original Cruiser provides and offers overall better performance in every aspect of our testing.

The Cruiser Ultra is a true all-around SUP; meaning it’s stable, decently fast, easy to track, and displays a great level of maneuverability without forcing you to make trade-offs in any of the prior. At the same time, its high volume build and rigid construction offer the highest weight support of the Ultra series and make the Cruiser Ultra the most capable to support taller/heavier paddlers, or paddlers loading up with gear and passengers.

Above all else, it offers the most in portability and compatibility and represents a new original for travel and adventure in the inflatable SUP industry.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading through our review of the iROCKER Cruiser Ultra, and encourage you to hit us with any questions or suggestions in the comments below.

Until next time, stay safe and happy paddling!

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SupBoardGuide

Heyo! At SupBoardGuide.com we are a team who love the water, the outdoors, and are more than grateful that our full-time job allows us to review stand up paddle boards. We paddle year round (it helps that we are just about 2 hours outside of Las Vegas), and we bring in a wide range of paddlers with the goal of providing our readers with the best, most in-depth, and accurate stand up paddle board reviews.

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13 thoughts on “iROCKER Cruiser Ultra iSUP Review, 2024”

  1. Thank you SO much for the reviews, they are unbelievably helpful and thorough! 🙂

    I am having trouble choosing between the Ultra All Around 11 and the Ultra Cruiser, and I’m wondering:

    1 – Why is the Cruiser Justin’s unexpected favourite out of the Ultra series (excluding the Blackfin CX Ultra)?

    2 – Can you provide any insight to help my decision?
    – I am 5’11, 155 lbs, and would like to be able to entertain my kiddo on it from time to time
    – I would like to be challenged, improve, and feel fast, but I’m a beginner now
    – I will use the kayak from time to time

    I would appreciate any input since you have tried them all and know them so well!

    Krista

    Reply
    • Hi Krista,

      1. The Cruiser Ultra is Justin’s unexpected favorite because he honestly wasn’t the biggest fan of the original Cruiser; it was a little heaver and a little wider than he’d prefer, and just was not a board that he found himself reaching for all that often. The Cruiser Ultra shed the weight of the original Cruiser and the upgraded construction makes it a bit stiffer and a bit more responsive, resulting in a more maneuverable, yet decently quick board that doesn’t sacrifice the ‘Cruiser’ level of stability.

      2. My suggestion for you would be to go with the Cruiser Ultra over the 11′ Ultra. The Cruiser Ultra has a more forgiving level of stability than the 11′ Ultra, which will be great as you’re just get started and will make it easier to bring along your kiddo. You will still be able to challenge yourself though, as the lower weight of the Cruiser Ultra makes it still capable of some speed and a lot more maneuverability than the 11′ Ultra. I think it’s overall a more versatile board.

      Hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions.

      Reply
  2. Thanks for your excellent reviews! I ordered an iRocker Cruiser for my first board with the electric pump and I’m wondering if I should’ve gone with the Cruiser Ultra instead. I’m a new paddler at 165 pounds. The price difference is minimal when you consider the pump is added. If I don’t need the additional weight capacity, would you recommend this over the original?

    Reply
    • Hi K. Lane,

      The standard Cruiser is a great first board, and the electric pump is definitely a phenomenal investment. The main difference between the standard and the Ultra is the weight. The original Cruiser is a little heavier than the Ultra and will be a little bit slower on the water (not a huge difference, but something you’d notice if it’s super important to you). There’s also the portability factor of the Ultra series, in that you can travel with it a bit easier, but if that’s not your intention then it’s ultimately nothing to sweat over. Essentially, both are really good boards and you’ll enjoy either one, but if speed and enhanced portability are deciding factors for you, I’d consider going with the Cruiser Ultra.

      Reply
  3. Hi,
    I have the 2020 cruiser and have been contemplating get the ultra version. First off, thanks for you great reviews! Second, does the split board pad irritate when sitting in the center. That is my major concern because I usually have the kayak conversion with me to do both types of paddling and it looks like where the d rings are located I might be on the edge of the back end so, uneven sitting? Also, I will sometimes scoot forward and sit in front of the seat,lie down or do yoga so really wonderong if the deck pad split up would then be uncomfortable. I love the backpack being more compact and the pump coming with it so that makes it more tempting as well. I did not get that and hopefully they go on sale if I decide not to go with the ultra…Thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • Hi Paula,

      I had the same question as well before we were able to try out the Cruiser Ultra. Personally, I don’t think the split deck pad is irritating while sitting on the board, it just is a little bit different and takes a little bit of getting used to. That being said though, I don’t do SUP yoga (I’m about as flexible as a metal rod), so I can’t say for sure if it’d be 100% comfortable for that; we usually always recommend paddlers that are wanting to do yoga specifically to look into boards with full length deck pads.

      Reply
  4. For smaller paddlers (5’1″ and 120 lbs), would you notice that much difference in paddling effort in windy conditions or in stability between the Cruiser Ultra and the iRocker AA 10′? Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi Ella,

      Good question, The Cruiser Ultra is lighter than the original 10′ AA from iROCKER, so it does get pushed around a bit more easily in the wind. However, I still haven’t found it to be noticeably more challenging than other SUPs in the wind and the stability stays pretty solid depending on how choppy the water conditions get.

      Reply
  5. Thank you for your review, I’ve found it useful. I’m new to paddle boarding and looking to but my first. I’m 6’2″ and 205lbs, would this cruiser Ultra be a suitable board for me to start on? Thanking you for your advice.

    John

    Reply

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