Bote LowRider Aero Tandem Review

Since this is a two-for-one option, performance in each of our metrics will differ depending on whether we used it in SUP mode or kayak mode. We'll try to touch on each topic separately to highlight how it performs in both setups. Overall, this is a very unique board that may be too niche for most paddlers, especially if your main focus is paddleboarding. On the other hand, its versatility as a multi-use board can open up a wider range of adventures for its owners. It performs fairly well as both a SUP and a kayak, and its stability is a major asset many will appreciate.

Stability

As a stand-up paddleboard, the Bote LowRider Aero Tandem offers stellar stability. Despite its hybrid design and ability to convert into a tandem kayak, it never feels compromised when used as a traditional SUP. Beginners should have little trouble finding their footing, and even in choppier conditions, the board feels solid and easy to use.

In kayak mode, our testers were surprised at how stable the setup felt with two people plus gear on board. While it doesn't feel quite like a traditional hard-shell kayak, moving around is relatively easy as long as both paddlers are mindful of their movements. You need to be aware of your balance, but not constantly on edge. One thing we quickly learned is that seat placement matters a lot. Making sure the seats are centered when strapped down had a noticeable impact on stability, and even a slight offset could make the boat feel less balanced than it should.

Ease of Use

While Bote makes high-quality carry cases (this one even has wheels) and all the extras are nicer quality, the additional components make it a bit more burdensome to use. All packed up in the carry case, this thing is big, as you can see in the photo below. It does have backpack straps, but we wouldn'tnecessarily call this setup easy to transport.

While the carry case has backpack straps, it is quite large and cumbersome when used in backpack mode.   Credit: Ryan Gasper

The carry case for this board is the biggest one we've seen. Luckily, it does have wheels on the bottom to make transport easier.   Credit: Ryan Gasper

Previous Next

In kayak mode, once you have all the sets strapped on and fins attached, getting it down to the water is 100% a two-person task, as it is heavy and cumbersome. Taller folks may find the kayak setup with two people a little tight. Our main tester, Katie, is about six feet tall and had a hard time finding a comfortable leg position that didn't inhibit paddling.

This board is a bit larger and therefore takes a little bit more time to pump up. But Bote pumps are decent quality compared to some other brands, and this pump is double action. This means that when you're down to the last few PSI, and it's getting harder to pump, you can pull the plug near the top of the pump and switch to single action to make it easier to finish (our arms say thank you!).

Glide Performance

The Bote SUP tracks quite well. For a large inflatable that can also function as a tandem kayak, it does an impressive job of holding a straight line. Even in windy conditions, it never felt like we had to work particularly hard to keep the board moving forward, and it maintains momentum well between strokes. We also noticed that it continued gliding after paddling rather than immediately slowing down, which makes longer paddles feel more enjoyable versus hard work.

It's easy, in kayak mode with two people, to keep this craft moving and going straight. We did at one point have just one person paddling in the back while it was still set up for two people, and experienced a ton of fishtailing. It felt noticeably harder to keep the kayak moving efficiently and tracking straight when paddling alone, likely because the weight distribution and seating position weren't optimized for solo use.

Maneuverability

This board not only turns easily with just 2-3 strokes but also has a tight turning radius, which we love to see. Even considering its larger size and tandem-capable design, it feels surprisingly nimble on the water. We expected it to require wide, sweeping turns, but it was able to pivot much more quickly than anticipated. That responsiveness makes it easier to navigate around obstacles like shorelines and other paddlers without feeling like you're steering a barge.

When set up as a kayak, making turns definitely takes a little more coordination and is not nearly as quick or as tight. With two paddlers onboard, you'll need to communicate and work together to execute efficient turns, especially if you're trying to change direction quickly. That said, we were pleasantly surprised by how maneuverable it remained given its length and capacity. It still felt manageable even if it loses some of the quick, playful handling it exhibits in SUP mode.

Construction Quality

Bote always delivers on quality with their boards, and the LowRider is no different. The paddles are high-quality and comfortable in hand (both SUP and kayak paddle setups), and there are ample front and rear cargo straps as well as front and rear carrying handles. Having front and rear cargo straps was especially helpful in tandem kayak mode, as it meant both paddlers could have access to their own gear.

The only downside to this board's construction is that the kayak paddles aren't extendable. This is normal for kayak paddles, but with the tandem setup being a little tight plus a taller tester, a longer paddle would have felt more comfortable.

Should You Buy the Bote LowRider Aero Tandem?

If you're looking for a high-quality inflatable that can serve multiple purposes, the Bote LowRider Aero is a compelling option. Its ability to switch between a stand-up paddle board and a tandem kayak adds a level of versatility that few inflatables can match. This board is especially appealing for families or anyone who likes to paddle with a companion or dog. It's an excellent option for taking kids or a partner out on the water without needing to purchase a separate kayak. The biggest consideration is price—if you're only interested in stand-up paddling, a dedicated SUP will likely provide similar performance for significantly less money.

What Other Paddle Boards Should You Consider?