With - weighed by us - 7.9 kilos (without fin and without air), the Lite Venture in the 12'2' length is actually a lightweight, especially if you take into account the two large nets with the numerous lashing eyes. However, it is slightly heavier with nets than stated.
The board is six inches thick and the gluing looks very neat. The cut edge on the rails is not always meticulously straight, but the corners are also glued cleanly and without creases. Overall, the board looks classy and well made. A large handle with soft padding is easy to grip and is positioned in a well-balanced position.
The fin is simple "standard", but a carbon fin is available as an upgrade as an optional accessory. A spiral leash is included in the scope of delivery.
Two large nets offers plenty of storage space and even more eyelets. All lashing eyes are made of stainless steel and are very solidly attached to the board. The deck pad in the standing area is comparatively small - probably to save weight - and a narrow strip has even been left out between the feet. This makes it possible to save weight without compromising on the actual board construction.
The (PVC-free) pack sack is not only light and stylish, but also particularly practical as a waterproof bag with a roll-top fastener. This means you don't need a separate bag for your luggage on a SUP tour. The associated pump was not available for testing.
On the water the board was completely convincing. It lies straight as an arrow on the water from bow to stern, appears light and lively, accelerates quickly and can be propelled with little effort. When the 80-kilo tester "rocks", it doesn't seem any softer than comparable, heavier boards, perhaps slightly softer under the heels. But the board, inflated to 15 psi and with a woven dropstitch inner, doesn't seem any softer, and the flat, straight water position is clearly visible in the photo. Even with very powerful paddling, the board only lifts slightly out of the water and does not bend noticeably in the centre, which speaks for a solid inner life.
In the turnthe board turns "normally" when you stop in the centre, the rear net (which can also be removed if required) gets in the way a little during pivot turns and anyone who likes to pirouette often would probably also want a non-slip pad for the rear foot. The wide tail offers good stability in the turn.
Conclusion: The Lite Venture Ultra Light 12'2'' is a fast, sporty tourer with good qualities as a training partner for fast fitness laps. The light weight should also be of particular interest for tours with carrying passages. The combination of the 30-inch wide board's sufficient stability and sporty riding feel is sure to be fun in the long term!
Price: 995 Euro
Info: Lite Venture
Stephan Gölnitz
Deputy Editor in Chief surf
