ISLE Versa Epoxy Review

The ISLE Versa performs well across our test metrics, especially considering the vast discrepancy in price between it and the top models. This board is very stable and an excellent bet for beginning paddlers. It handles reasonably well, glides great, and won't demolish your wallet. This model matched the performance of our top-performing stand up paddle board, the Boardworks Kraken in the on-water tests and cost hundreds of dollars less. What's not to like?

Glide Performance

The Versa did about average in the glide per paddle stroke test in calm conditions, taking about 45.5 paddle strokes on average to complete our course, compared to the top score of around 37. It did a little better compared to the rest of the group in the rough water version of the test, averaging 25.5 paddle strokes to traverse the test course, only slightly behind the top score of 22.5 put up by the BIC.

The performance of the Versa continued to improve in our time trial tests, doing very well in the calm water test. The average time of the Versa was 72.99 seconds. The Versa continued to perform above average in our choppy water time trials, only finishing a measly two seconds or so behind the top model. This close finish with the top boards is particularly surprising, as the Versa is at a distinct disadvantage to boards like the Boardworks Raven. The Versa is an all-around board, meaning that it's substantially shorter and broader than the touring and racing boards, subjecting it to appreciably more fluid drag.

Stability

The Versa did very well in rough conditions, staying relatively stable through minor wakes and waves. However, it couldn't quite match the resilience of the BIC in these conditions. It wasn't quite as good as the Kraken or BIC at carrying cargo, whether kids, coolers, or canines, but it still was more than capable.

This model was also another favorite of beginners and first-time paddlers, especially for those who found the BIC too large and heavy to carry. It was the only board of the entire group, besides the BIC, that our parent testers felt confident enough to take a toddler on.

Maneuverability

The Versa excelled in our timed slalom obstacle course, completing it in 84.28 seconds — only lagging the top performer (the Raven) by about three seconds. However, the Versa's performance dropped to below average in our U-turn test, having a somewhat wider turning radius than boards like the Kraken or the BIC.

Ease of Transport

This board was about average in terms of weight, measuring in at 27 lbs, 9 oz. in our test. This meant the board was pretty easy to carry on land, with a standard recessed handle.

This model was decently easy to load on a car, a task that could be accomplished by a single person without too much difficulty.

Durability

This model only sustained a few minor scratches in the course of our testing — most likely from our canine transport test. It suffered no other damage, major or minor. We also found no commonly repeated issues or complaints with this model online.

Value

This model is an amazing value, offering great performance at an unbeatable price. It was the only board of the entire group that scored well and cost less than a grand.

Conclusion

The ISLE Versa is a great stand up paddle board, particularly stable and beginner-friendly. This model is a fantastic value, earning it our Best Buy award, and is the only model of the entire group that scored in the upper half of the group and costs less than a thousand dollars. On top of all that, it even includes a paddle. This is our top recommendation for anyone who is shopping for an excellent stand up paddle board and trying to remain on a budget.