The new Blitz Air SLT from Fanatic is not only a completely new shape, but also a refreshing innovation in terms of construction and design in the middle of the season. With a length of 3.65 metres (12'0") and a width of 83.3 centimetres (33"), it has the dimensions of a sustainable touring board. The thickness of 15 centimetres (6") provides sufficient volume and usually ensures rigidity. With a weight of only 8.3 kilograms (own measurement: inflated with fin), the board is pleasingly light, which is due to the S|L|T (Stiff-Light-Tough) construction, but also to the reduced deck pad, for example.
Fanatic Blitz with well thought-out equipment for versatile use
The Blitz Air SLT's equipment is extremely comprehensive and well thought-out. To save weight, the deck pad has small recesses between the feet where a non-slip pad is not absolutely necessary. The divisible fin box makes it easier to roll the board in, while the fin itself can be mounted without tools using a small tommy screw. There is a ring eyelet for the leash at the tail and four further eyelets in the centre for attaching an optional kayak seat or the padded shoulder strap supplied. This also serves as a lashing strap to secure the rolled-up board. The central carrying handle is sufficiently large and well padded, making it comfortable to carry the board. There is a large luggage net at the front for sufficient storage space. A small ring eyelet is integrated at the top as a towing eyelet, combined with a holder for an action camera. The welded edges ("welded seam") are designed to save adhesive and improve durability. The rucksack is exceptionally solid, high quality and, as promised, particularly compact. The board can be rolled tightly and takes up significantly less space than "usual". The carrying system is comfortably padded and there are no heavy, bulky wheels.
Versatile handling characteristics on the water
The riding characteristics of the Blitz Air SLT can be characterised as all-round touring. The long length and the directional stability due to the large fin ensure good touring qualities. It can be propelled for a long time with the paddle on one side without immediately turning away, and the board tracks well. At the same time, the width and the upturned nose allow for versatile use, be it for families, short trips or as a fun and games board. Because the nose is clearly curved upwards, the board turns well when doing a crossbow turn. (learning video) with little resistance on the spot and when going back for the more demanding "pivot turn" (Video), the wide tail offers good stability. Tipping stability is very good across the board, even if boards with such a light construction generally seem a little more reactive. Due to their lower mass, they tend to move a little faster than heavier models. Nevertheless, the Blitz Air SLT offers excellent stability, which also comes into its own in difficult conditions (wavy seas) and when transporting luggage. The board has a very slightly curved rocker line (longitudinal deflection), which can even be favourable for boards with a displacement design, even race SUP boards are designed in this way.
Lightweight construction with a fast paddle feel
As with many lightweight iSUPs, the subjectively perceived stiffness of the board is somewhat lower than that of heavier variants. However, thanks to its 15 centimetre thickness, the board is stable and does not flex in the water when travelling at a steady speed. For paddlers who value a lightweight all-round board with good touring suitability, the Fanatic Blitz Air SLT in the new design is an attractive option. The quickly mounted fin and the versatile riding characteristics speak in favour of the board. Our GPS measurements also confirm that the board has a good average and top speed compared to an even slightly slimmer sport tourer. You can find the manufacturer's information about the board here. At a price of 559 euros, you get a versatile board with welded edges and good features overall. Pump (here we have tested an inexpensive pump) and leash (safety line that prevents you from losing the board after a fall) are unfortunately not included in the scope of delivery.
Technical specifications of the Fanatic Blitz SLT
Blitz Air 12'
- Volume: 345 litres
- Length: 12'0'' / 365.8 cm
- Width: 33'' / 83.3 cm
- Thickness: 6'' / 15 cm
- Technology: S|L|T (Stiff-Light-Tough), welded
- Weight: 7.90 kg (+/- 5%)
- Pack volume: 45 litres
- Equipment: 2 x US split box, 1 x iSUP Race 23 fin, GoPro+tow mount, 4 E-rings for optional seat attachment, combined luggage/shoulder strap
- Price: 559 Euro
Blitz Air 11'
- Volume: 310 litres
- Length: 11'2'' / 341.4 cm
- Width: 32'' / 81.3 cm
- Thickness: 6'' / 15 cm
- Technology: S|L|T (Stiff-Light-Tough), welded
- Weight: 7.20 kg (+/- 5%)
- Pack volume: 38 L
- Equipment: 1 x US split box, 1 x iSUP Race 23 fin, GoPro+tow mount, 4 E-rings for optional seat attachment, combined luggage/shoulder strap
- Price: 549 Euro
