SB’s first thoughts on the new 2018 Fanatic range

As autumn approaches the brands start to release their new ranges. We take a look at the 2018 Fanatic range and see what stands out for SUPboarder… 

One thing you can be sure you’ll see every year with the new Fanatic range is top videos complementing their new releases. From performance surf shapes to super fast cruisers, the 2018 Fanatic SUP range will certainly have a board for you.

It looks like Fanatic have done more subtle changes and refinements to their 2018 boards rather than a complete range re-design. There are a few more board sizes in certain models, offering you even more choice than last year. But their shapes for last year were spot on, with boards like the Ray and inflatable Stubby coming out well in the SUPboarder reviews. It’s good to see they’re back again in the 2018 range.

Fanatic say in 2018

Hard compsite boards
Those looking for adventure and discovery will be stoked with the new, performance orientated Rays and ladies will fall in love with the new Diamond Touring, a female specific version of the ever popular Ray. Both designs are super-efficient delivering effortless glide and stability. With the same inspiring performance, going the distance has never been so easy.
Our new Foil program opens up a whole new world of riding waves. The Stubby Foil Edition adds another dimension to an already versatile board and transforms into your multi-sports tool for Wave SUP, SUP-Foiling and Windsurf-Foiling.
Believing that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy this exhilarating ride, we’ve developed our accessible, affordable and highly durable Flow S1 Foil. Catch barely breaking swell or fly over slower sections with power and speed.

Inflatable boards
Our entry Pure Air inflatable range is designed for everyone in mind. Economically priced, easy to transport, stable and progressive it’s pure fun for all the family. For those looking for an adaptable ride, the Pure Air WS allows for both SUP and Wind­surf with straightforward and easy to use features for a fast setup. Most importantly, the next gener­ation of rippers can relish in the inflatables we’ve designed especially for them. Light, durable, and above all forgiving, we know they’ll be proud of their very own toy!

What’s more fun than working out on water? Our Fly Air Fit is the ultimate platform for all forms of fitness. From yoga to pilates and strength training, you’ll be surprised how taking your programme to the water will accelerate your progression. For those more inclined to hit the pool, the new Fit Mat is for you. Compact, easy to transport and with intricate design features to enhance your training, we guarantee you’ll be stoked after each session.

Hard / Composite boards

Stubby LTD

Fanatic say:
The new generation of our parallel rail design combines stability and ease of use with speed, flow and radical hacks. The 2018 Stubby will give you the confidence to approach the wave in a totally different way.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– More of a pulled tail than many other shorter stubby nose boards
– SB reviewed in 2016. Easy to surf and lots of glide on the wave
– Will suit many intermediate surfers
– Not 100% sure about colour, but we will see!
– Loads of fin boxes. Look forward to seeing some foils!

Allwave LTD

Fanatic say:
Wherever you decide to take it, the AllWave delivers easy-peasy surfing action with surprisingly radical performance attributes. Available in four sizes – from the snappy 8’9” to the floaty 9’8” – we guarantee unbeatable fun in all types of waves.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– A stable outline shape
– Large range of volumes
– Going to be a great board range for heavier rides
– Not too thick at tail to help performace
– This surf SUP could be paddled on the flat too

Stylemaster LTD

Fanatic say:
If you’re into the classic style of Longboard surfing, then this beauty will win you over with the first wave you catch. Easy to paddle, its endless flow and insane glide will let you get creative with your ride.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Nice rail and outline shape
– Good choice of sizes
– Graphics look great
– All boards light for size
– Will this board have more top end performance than in 2016? We’ll find out soon!

Fly LTD

Fanatic say:
The Fly is the quintessential SUP range for everyone. From newbie to the more experienced paddler, the Fly’s all-round shape provides an effortless and smooth glide across flat water, performing well in small to mid-sized waves. SUP is fun on the Fly!
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Easy to paddle
– One board that does it all
– Not too wide, so will paddle well on the flat
– Lighter riders could look at the Allwave instead of 9’6”
– Going to get you into the surf

Diamond Pure

Fanatic say:
Shine bright like a Diamond! Our ladies SUP doesn’t only light up the line-up with timeless style and grace, it also shines with endless all-round abilities and performance. Smooth paddling and engaging rails, this women specific design is easy to use and with effortless glide.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Same shapes & sizes as Fly LTD
– One board that does it all
– Not too wide, so will paddle well on the flat
– Looks great
– Going to get you into the surf

Ray LTD

Fanatic say:
Totally redesigned for 2018, the Ray delivers the ultimate touring experience. With outstanding stroke efficiency, racing style waterline and exceptional stability it truly is a great all-round cruiser.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– We loved last years board
– Both boards 29.5” in 2018
– A fab all round flat water board
– Sorry to loose last years 27.5” wide board
– 14′ will be great for long distance paddles

Diamond Pure Touring

Fanatic say:
New to the Composite range is the Diamond Touring. A slightly smaller version of our ever-popular Ray, it has heaps of performance with effortless glide all wrapped up in style!
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Narrower than Ray at 29′!
– We want one, looks epic
– A fab all round flat water board

Falcon

Fanatic say:
The Falcon is the weapon of choice for all-round SUP racing. From flat water to extreme open ocean conditions, the Falcon will get you there first.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– From downwinders to all round racing
– Only  2 widths in 12’6” – 24.75” & 26.75”
– Rocker line to handle waves
– Less choice makes it easier to decide which board
– It’s fast but how fast?

Strike

Fanatic say:
The Strike is a zero compromise flatwater racing hull. Developed for pure function and top speeds, it’s the weapon of choice for both glassy and choppy water racing – the formula needed to win!
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Super fast outline
– Best for straight line sprints
– Multiple handle placement choices
– 1 board in 12’6”
– It’s fast but how fast?

Inflatable SUP … iSUPs

With 19 inflatable SUPs in different constructions, there is a board for every rider and every budget. We’ll give our SUPboarder thoughts on some of the most popular and stand out models for 2018…

Stubby Air

Fanatic say:
The Stubby Air is our wave toy suited to travellers. Inspired by our Stubby LTD Composite version, it combines ease of use with direct responsiveness making it the next level iSUP.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Same as last year
– Great surfing iSUP in 2017 SB review 
– We would love to see this as a quad setup!
– Great bag
– Well made

Fly Air Premium and Pure

Fanatic say:
The Fly Air is the ultimate toy that everyone can enjoy. Easy to carry, strong, stiff and durable, our neatly packed Fly Airs inflate into four finely tuned shapes for flat water fun and small surf action.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Loads of sizes
– Lots of colour and style choices
– Many different constructions
– Great bags
– Well made

Ray Air Premium and Falcon

Fanatic say:
The Ray Air is the inflatable version of our Ray. A cruiser with immense glide it’s ideal for touring, exploring and discovering. Get set to paddle into new territories with ease and comfort.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Great all round iSUP
– Lots of colour and style choices
– Many different constructions
– Great bags
– Well made

Diamond Air and Touring

Fanatic say:
The Diamond Air represents surfing spirit and timeless elegance for female riders. A great all-round performer, its sweet style and ease of use in all conditions ensure quality, simplicity and lightweight handling.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Great all round iSUPs
– Looks great
– Going to turn heads on the water
– Well made

Rapid Air Touring

Fanatic say:
Paddle and raft through rivers, streams, rapids and boiling white waters with our Rapid Air models! Bulletproof, super stable and equipped with ultimate turning performance, this is the top choice for the explorer looking to find surf far away from the ocean.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– The shape looks spot on
– Lots of handles
– Loads of fin choices
– New for 2018
– Going to suit a lot of paddlers

Ripper Air

Fanatic say:
Our two kids iSUPs – Ripper Air and Ripper Air Touring – come in new optics and are lighter than ever! The perfect companion for up and coming rippers, they’re sure to keep the younger generation entertained for hours on end.
SUPboarder thoughts:
– Good sizes
– Unique look
– Get the kids on the water

So there you have it, a great looking selection of hard and inflatable boards in the 2018 Fanatic range. We look forward to getting the new boards on the water and giving them a real test. But until then, for more information on Fanatic visit their website here.