Just when we thought Earth River SUP couldn’t make a more versatile board, they show us the Skylake Blue series. Modeled after the performance abilities of the Green series, the Skylake Blue models give riders even more paddling capabilities with a configurable fin system. The exclusive BLUE™ series fin set comes standard on the boards featuring three adaptable fin boxes, a large center fin, two click side fins and a thruster fin. You can even mix and match US standard center fins and FCS compatible side fins with the BLUE™ series.

ERS: Leading by Example

Earth River SUP blossomed in 2012 when a group of paddle board enthusiasts grew tired of searching for portable high-performance gear that could take on a variety of conditions, so they decided to create their own. The company’s early days were spent manufacturing boards exclusively for paddle boarding schools. Skip to now and Earth River Sup is a paddle board company that is changing the way the watersports industry conducts business. ERS is known for their innovative boards ‘designed by a paddler’ with enhanced features made from only the best materials, manufactured in partnership with reliable companies who have high ethical standards. Earth River SUP boards are premium, reliable iSUPs that were designed to be used by any rider, anywhere. ERS doesn’t follow a hierarchical structure though, they broke the mold with their community-based business model, striving only to make a better product and constantly improve the existing ones, without compromise. The backbone of Earth River SUP has and always will be; quality, value and integrity.

The Board in General

Just like the lightweight multi-functional Skylake Green series the Skylake Blue was designed to make a versatile board available for any type of rider, on any condition, anytime, anywhere. The 9’6” is a 31” wide compact board for small riders or even kids, you can take this board on the plane, train or in the car and ride the waterways from Maine to Florida. The 10’7” is a board that can really do it all, it’s 32” wide and can take up to 225-pounds. The 11’0” model is what you want if your shopping at ‘Big & Tall’ or are just looking for a super stable platform to go from SUP yoga, to fishing, to naptime.

Earth River SUP Skylake Blue 9’6”

Earth River SUP Skylake Blue 10-7

Earth River SUP Skylake Blue 11-0

LENGTH X WIDTH	Thickness	WEIGHT	WEIGHT CAPACITY	PRICE
9’6″ X 31”	5″	18 lbs	150 lbs	Check Price
10’7″ X 32″	5″	21 lbs	225 lbs	Check Price
11’0″ X 34″	5″	22 lbs	235 lbs	Check Price

Fin configuration: Tri-fin: removable

The Board: Deeper Details

At the core of the Skylake Blue boards is a lightweight drop stitch core made from ERS TECH DUAL™ technology. Military grade PVC covers the outside of the boards for puncture-resistance and lifelong durability. ERS then uses a UV resistant coating to protect the material and graphics of the boards for years to come. The top deck of the Skylake Blue series is a hybrid EVA foam pad that is %40 thicker than most iSUPs. The majority of the pad is crocodile cut for a soft and secure feel in your standing zone, the tail pad is a deep diamond grooved cut with a raised bar for traction control and arch support for advanced turning and tricks. At the nose of the boards we see a 4-point bungee storage system for bringing gear along or securing your paddle. Stainless steel D-rings work as attachment points with an extra D-ring on the nose for towing, tethering or using as a leash connect. The tail of the board holds the inflation valve and yet another multi-purpose D-ring. In the center we see the carrying handle which ERS made removable, this is a helpful feature for those who like doing SUP yoga or just want to lay flat without the handle in their backs. The Skylake BLUE ™ series features a completely customizable fin configuration and a Blue fin pack. Three US fin boxes can fit the 8” center fin, a 4.5” center fin option to go with the thruster set up and two side click fins. You can mix and match your fin configuration to the water condition of the day.

Enhanced Extras

Each of the Skylake BLUE ™ boards comes with the BLUE ™ fin pack that includes the fins, screws, and a padded fin bag. You also receive a travel backpack for storing your board and all of its complementing accessories, and a dual action pump. The travel backpack is made from heavy-duty materials with padded shoulder and hip straps, carrying handles and grooved wheels. The lightweight pump is easy to use with a built-in pressure gauge and comfortable handle.

Board Performance

Each board in the Skylake Blue series offers something special for all riders. The smallest of them all at 9’6” this compact board is for all around fun, anywhere. Its easy to pack up and can be checked on the plane or tossed in your back seat. This board is also perfect for smaller beginners as its incredibly easy to maneuver and super stable. The 10’7” is a great inflatable alternative to an all-around hardboard, this model can really go from flat to choppy waters in the same day with ease. The larger 11’0” model is the most stable all-around board that works for tall riders. This board is also great for bringing along the kids or pets for a ride thanks to its 235-pound weight capacity. The Skylake Blue models track well, and glide smoothly with close contact to the water. Each board picks up speed quickly and smoothly taking you across longer distances in less time with confidence. Whether packed away or fully inflated each board is lightweight enough to carry, even for junior paddlers. The Skylake Blue series is the most versatile and customizable range of boards tailored perfectly to your greatest ride.

Let’s Clarify: The Not so Negatives

Earth River SUP has done a good job at covering all of the bases in terms of function and performance, they have sprinkled a little bit of everything on all of their boards. The highest quality materials and gorgeous build of the boards have us dazzled, there’s only one thing missing. We would love the addition of grab handles on the boards at the nose and the tail, for easier handling on and off the water.

Add to Your Collection

Since Earth River SUP likes to keep their support in the community, you will not find ERS products in commercial retail stores. Don’t cry just yet though, you can still get your hands on one. Here’s how…
In person: You can purchase Earth River SUP products through select SUP schools and outfitters who ride and use ERS products in lessons and rental programs or are authorized to sell ERS products.
Online: ERS has had “a long standing relationship with Pumped Up SUP” and you can purchase their products by going to www.pumpedupsup.com or if you still like shopping over the phone, call 1-877-777-1769 to order.

The team at Earth River SUP is all about their community and standing behind their products and have come up with a pretty sweet deal for their customers. As of June 2019, Earth River SUP will give you a 30 day ‘ride at a different level guarantee,’ which means; You can use the first 30 days from purchase to ‘trial’ your board. Take it out, pump it up and ride it around. If you’re not absolutely satisfied with your purchase you have two options.
Exchange it– For just $99 to cover shipping, you can exchange an opened or used ERS board as a credit towards a new ERS board. The board must be from the same range sold by the dealer you bought it from and does not include accessories or excessive damage caused to the board.
Refund it– You can return an unused or opened board for a full refund (don’t forget about the $99 shipping though) or return a used or opened board for a full refund, minus the shipping and a %20 restocking fee.

One Final Note

The Skylake Blue series is just as lovable as the Skylake Green series. The all-around performance, general looks and incredibly durable construction have us wondering why everyone isn’t riding and Earth River SUP. Whether you’re looking for a compact model to add to your ever growing iSUP collection or for an ultra-stable all-around performer for everyone in the family, the Skylake Blue series has a board for you.