Check it out... I like it..

DJ

Great idea. Caught my big toe a few times on a hand hold when cross stepping back and forth. Far safer option.

bownes said...

That's a great idea...I also like the locking ability...

I am guessing this will be a standard fitting on most boards soon...

Yep it probably will and just like the fin box's they talk about in the video will no doubt be copied and pirate versions available soon.

Patents are only worth fighting for if the cost of lost sales are far greater than the cost of taking legal action............ Patent attorneys cost the price of a small car per letter.

The term 'patent' is more of a marketing term these days.

Looks more complicated then is really necessary. On the plus side you could probably still use it once the handle breaks off.

Ok if you are walking long distances I guess but otherwise pointless.

Lobes said...
....
Ok if you are walking long distances I guess but otherwise pointless.

There is definitely a need for a handle that will allow a person of reasonable strength to carry a larger mid-size board a reasonable distance. The current handles are useless for more than picking up the board to get out of the water.

SUP as a family sport is at risk because it is promoted as the sport for everyone, and specifically aimed at women. Imagine how many women are going to be disillusioned because they try SUP and find they can't lift it or carry it anywhere.

I am fitter than average and strong enough and I cannot carry a production 11' board by the handle for more than 100 metres. I could carry my Starboard 11'2" on my shoulder for 800 metres but I was a bit wrecked for paddling once I got to the beach.

That is one of the reasons I got rid of my big fat SUP for one of Dean's custom sub-6 kg.

The Naish 12'6" has a sunken deck with nicely moulded drain holes in the side. They make a nice hole to grab. I haven't tried carrying one any distance but it does feel good in the hand.

Any feedback now they've been around a while?

Am looking at a 2nd hand SUP ATX with one of these handles vs very similar board without.

Female with weedy arms and struggle with even 12kg boards.

Thanks!

ozwrangler said..

Any feedback now they've been around a while?

Am looking at a 2nd hand SUP ATX with one of these handles vs very similar board without.

Female with weedy arms and struggle with even 12kg boards.

Thanks!

We have been selling Boardworks and SUP ATX boards with these handles since late 2012.
One of the biggest upsides is that you can get solid purchase whilst holding the board at any angle. This is particularly helpful when putting a board on the roof when it is windy. The handle design is also a lot less tiring as you can use the larger muscles of your hand for purchase not just your fingers.
We have found this very helpful in the school where we have to carry boards 250m to the beach.
The ability to lock your board via the handle is also plus.
So far no downsides. It is light and has not added significantly to the cost of the board. Thumbs up from us.

I wonder if some of us recreational SUPers would be less inclined to pay extra $$ for lighter construction boards, if these more ergonomic handles become more prevalent.

I'm mainly thinking about larger boards, where carrying/handling can become a factor for some.

good for 360 barrell roll aerials

russh said..

good for 360 barrell roll aerials

Funny

ULI Boards said..


Clever concept and name.

The ULI concept with the paddle loops, whereby you thread the paddle through the loops making the paddle your carry handle is also a clever concept.

Makes carrying the board effortless, keeps one hand free and makes it easier to keep balance.

Got them on my 14, great for long land carries. Not so good for beach launching into surf, hard to get the paddle out fast. I put a ezi handle on they are a good option as well. http://www.paddlesurfing.com.au/Home/Accessories/SUP-accs--clothing

Looks good, is there a left hand model?