Bote Breeze Aero Review
Our Verdict
Compare to Similar Products
This Product
Bote Breeze Aero | |||||
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Awards | |||||
Price | $699.00 at Backcountry Compare at 2 sellers | $330 List $199.95 at Amazon | $750 List $418.99 at Amazon | $700 List $239.99 at Amazon | $426 List $259.99 at Amazon |
Overall Score | |||||
Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | A beginner-to-intermediate board that keeps paddling fun in mixed conditions | A lightweight, easy to use, and affordable board with solid all-around performance | This simple, stylish board performs well and has a reasonable price | This lightweight and affordable board provides versatile fun for splashing around | A smaller, inexpensive board that is a great way to get out on the water, but there are better options |
Rating Categories | Bote Breeze Aero | FunWater 11 | Atoll 11' | ROC 10' Explorer | SereneLife Inflatable |
Stability (35%) | |||||
Glide Performance (25%) | |||||
Maneuverability (15%) | |||||
Ease of Use (15%) | |||||
Construction Quality (10%) | |||||
Specs | Bote Breeze Aero | FunWater 11 | Atoll 11' | ROC 10' Explorer | SereneLife Inflatable |
Measured Weight | 20 lbs | 18.9 lbs | 21 lbs | 18 lbs | 25 lbs |
Weight Capacity | 250 lbs | 330 lbs | 315 lbs | 350 lbs | 275 lbs |
Inflated Width | 33" | 33" | 32" | 33" | 30" |
Inflated Length | 10'8" | 11' | 11' | 10' | 10' |
Inflated Thickness | 6" | 6" | 6" | 6" | 6" |
Paddle Included | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Fin Configuration | 2+1 plastic fins, with large detachable center fin | 2+1 plastic fins, with large detachable center fin | 2+1 plastic fins, with large detachable center fin | 2+1 plastic fins, with large detachable center fin | 2+1 plastic fins, with large detachable center fin |
Folded Dimensions | 38" 18" x 12" | 34" x 16" x 7" | 34" x 14" x 8" | 34" x 12" x 14" | 33" x 12" x 12" |
Bungee Cargo System | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pump Included | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Backpack Included | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Bote Breeze Aero measures 10 feet, 8 inches long, 33 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. It is manufactured with carbon drop-stitch technology, making it lighter, stronger, stiffer, and more responsive in a variety of conditions. The military-grade PVC increases durability, and there is front cargo space, multiple grab handles, and side-mounted D-rings. The three-quarter length deck pad provides a soft and grippy surface for paddling, sitting, or Yoga practice. The board weighs in at just 20 pounds when inflated, and it is rated to support up to 250 pounds. When packed up with all its accessories, the bag is comfortable for most adults to carry. Add to all of that a great price, and you have a fun board with great all-around value.
Performance Comparison
Stability
We took the Breeze Aero out in calm conditions as well as in 10 to 15-mile winds and boat chop. Our paddling testers ranged from those with experience on both inflatable and foam core boards to total beginners. For all, this board was a favorite regardless of conditions. It is designed to sit in the perfect position on the water, allowing it to roll smoothly over waves with minimal rocking or bouncing. It absorbed the movement of waves and chop enough to allow paddlers to have a consistent sense of steadiness regardless of conditions. Dogs wandering the deck had little effect on the board's stability and were willing to ride with us even in wavy conditions.
This board comes in two lengths: 10 feet, 8 inches, and 11 feet, 6 inches (we tested the 10-foot, 8-inch length). Our testers were all small to average-size paddlers, and all felt confident on the smaller board. They were easily able to stand in waves from both wind and nearby boats. Our resident Yogini even felt confident balancing in a crow pose on this board.
Glide Performance
While not as fast as other boards on flat water, we found that the Breeze Aero floated along steadily with a rhythmic paddle stroke. It has a tapered nose and a longer center fin, both of which contribute to an overall feeling of steadiness.
In calm conditions, with a consistent paddle stroke, we were able to retain an easy pace. With a stronger stroke (still in calm conditions), our testers could go about 100 feet in 30 seconds. This board won't win any races, but it feels sturdy and manageable. When we took it out in 10 to 15 mph winds and boat chop, our beginner paddlers felt comfortable both on their knees and standing. The Breeze managed easily when facing into the waves and surfed smoothly to the shore.
Maneuverability
A longer center fin and tapered nose give the Breeze Aero all it needs to turn relatively quickly. One of our testers noted that, for its size, it turns on a dime. We found that choppy water and winds had a minimal effect on maneuverability. When testing in calm conditions, turning around a buoy while standing in the center of the board was a little slower than doing a step-back turn, which is common. A composite paddle is included in the package, and although heavy, its ABS edge blade indicates that it is durable, aligning with the rest of the board's design. The weight of the paddle did not hinder our paddling or turning.
Testers noted that the padding on the back of this board provides a good grip when stepping back for turns. Even when broadside to the waves, we could easily redirect ourselves. Once again, the Breeze Aero is not the fastest, but it scored high with paddlers due to how easily it maneuvered in all conditions.
Ease of Use
We appreciate the quality of the bag the Breeze comes with and the fact that the zipper allows it to open fully. The board folds up relatively easily with all its components, leaving some room to stash personal gear inside. The bag has multiple adjustments, including side and back straps, which help to bind everything in place or attach items to the outside. It features a rear back pad and padded straps for comfort. Inside, there is a small pocket for tucking away loose items. We were impressed that Bote has included a chest strap, which makes it more comfortable for longer travels and comfortable even for paddlers of smaller stature.
Once inflated, the board is easy to carry to and from the water. The front, back, and center handles are useful for pulling it into and out of the water, and the additional D-rings on the sides are great for attaching a shoulder strap. At just 20 pounds, this is an incredibly lightweight board, especially considering the build's focus on durability and stability.
It is our duty to test out every component of each board, including manually pumping every one multiple times. The Breeze Aero comes with a single-chamber dual-stage pump. A switch on the side can be adjusted to make adding the last few pounds of air easier. As with most hand pumps, the last few pounds of air are the most difficult part of what we've come to refer to as “the warm-up.” The dual stage makes this effort a little bit easier.
One incredibly helpful aspect is that the hose can be plugged into the opposite side of the pump to deflate the board. Pumping all the air out before rolling up the board makes a significant difference when packing it up. It took us about 8 minutes to pump up this board. The initial deflation took 30 seconds and an additional 2.5 minutes to empty completely using the pump.
Construction Quality
This well-constructed board does not sacrifice durability for weight or attractiveness. It boasts military-grade PVC and carbon drop-stitch technology with a padded deck pad. This board both looks good and performs well. It is an excellent all-around board for beginner and intermediate paddlers wishing to get out in flat water and chop, and comes at a great price.
Should You Buy the Bote Breeze Aero?
Bote has created a comparatively affordable board with a basic setup that performs well for beginner and intermediate paddlers wanting to improve their skills. With a tapered nose and 6-inch height, the Breeze Aero cuts through waves, making it manageable for beginners as they build their confidence in chop and wind. The front-end bungee provides cargo space for basic items you'll want for a day out. Handles in the front, back, and center can be used for carrying, lifting, and loading.
What Other Inflatable SUPs Should You Consider?
The Bote Breeze Aero is a favorite among beginner and intermediate paddlers and a great overall value. What it lacks in frills, it makes up for in quality design and materials. It's a durable board that handles mixed conditions well and is a great choice for those seeking something basic and functional. If you're ready to reach beyond the basics, we love the Bluefin Cruise Carbon, which feels like a rigid board. If you just want to get out on the water for cheap, the FunWater 11 is not to be missed.