Body GlovePerformer

Who is it for?

If you’re looking for a very stable, inflatable, all-around/touring paddle board that is at an affordable price point of less than $1,000 then the Performer 11 from Body Glove is worth a look. Due to its width of 34 inches the board is very stable and weighed in at 23.3 lbs, which is pretty lightweight and easy to carry.

Its shape makes the Performer a board that can be used by everyone, no matter the age or skill level, and is designed primarily for recreation. Its construction and shape combined best fit this board for short distance paddling, around the beach and dock or on the river. Retailing at $999, the board fits in the affordable mid-tier market.

First Impressions

The Body Glove Performer 11 once again has a fresh look for 2024 but the construction and features of the board are essentially the same. The 2024 version has a different color scheme that is bright and vibrant, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and novice paddlers alike. The Body Glove Performer 11 is known for being a very well-made, all-around paddle board and year after year it continues to hold up to that reputation and standard. This paddle board is great for beginners who want a paddle board that is going to be easy to transport and that has the stability that you're looking for.

The board features a durable PVC construction that is lightweight and easy to store and transport. The hull is durable and rigid once inflated which makes it very firm when you blow it up, and the deck pad has an EVA foam that has that double traction so you don't slip with the engraved foot marks. Speaking of footmarks, this is a nice, subtle feature that really helps the beginner paddlers in guiding them to properly using the board to have the best on-water experience which we truly appreciate.

The paddle board comes with an all-around package and a very nice well-made backpack with a fin that you don't need any tools to put in which is nice and convenient. There’s nothing worse than showing up to paddle and realizing you’re missing the fin key tool or screwdriver to get your fin secured and placed. The package also comes with a repair kit, which is standard across all inflatables in the industry, so if you damage the board you can and should be able to fix it yourself which is very easy.

Another great carry-over feature from previous editions is the inclusion/replacement of a manual pump with an electric pump. It’s not only convenient, saving you time and energy but it’s very well made and very easy to use. On the water, the Performer 11 stuns with stability. The width on the board here really helps you feel incredibly comfortable and stable. For me, it literally felt like a dock. I was able to cruise with ease and for a beginner I think this is one of the most important things to consider when looking to purchase a board.

In looking at the paddle that comes with the package it is not my first choice but is a great option for the first-timers, especially since it comes in the package. Then, if and when you’re ready to take your paddling up a notch, you might want to consider switching up your paddle for a different, lighter one.

Now when it comes to pricing this is where the kicker is: online you can find it for $999, which is a very fair price point for the construction and the quality of the board but, before you actually make that purchase you can actually probably find this board cheaper at bigger retail stores. Costco sells this board at an incredible price which makes it one of the best boards that you can find under the $500 mark.

Overall, this board is a great choice if you’re a beginner looking for your first inflatable SUP and for those who are looking for a high-quality and affordable all around stand up paddle board inflatable. 100% an A-grade board.