Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast: Which SUP Is Better?

Are you looking for a water sport that the whole family can enjoy together? Would you love to find an activity that can accommodate a group of friends all at once, even those furry friends? Or perhaps you’re simply searching for a new personal hobby where you can soak up some sunshine while surrounded by breathtaking views?

Paddleboarding is the answer, and more specifically, stand up paddleboarding is the solution to all these scenarios. Often shortened to SUP, stand up paddleboarding is an increasingly popular water sport, and for good reasons. This family-friendly activity is sure to provide hours of entertainment to participants of all ages, sizes, fitness levels, and athletic abilities.

But if you are new to paddleboarding, determining what type of board is the right fit can be a difficult task. SUPs come in numerous styles, so which kind is best? Let’s discuss the similarities and differences of two excellent choices – the Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast.

Differences Between the Aqua Marina Beast vs Fusion

What should you consider when comparing the Aqua Marina Beast vs Fusion? Both boards from the Aqua Marina Collection are designed for SUP surfing or flat water paddling, but each one has specific characteristics that impact the paddling experience.

Size

When it comes to a SUP, surface area provides stability. The smaller the board, the less stable the board. Larger-sized paddle boards provide more stability, especially for beginners that are new to the sport.

The Fusion model is longer than the Beast. The length of the Fusion is 10’10” and the Beast is 10’6”. Both boards are 32” wide and 6” thick.

Weight Capacity

When a paddler exceeds the maximum payload of a board, it impacts how well the board functions. It is wise to stick to the suggested carrying capacity of your board, otherwise the board loses buoyancy. It can even capsize or sink.

The Fusion maximum payload is 230 pounds, while the Beast maximum payload is 308 pounds.

Paddler Preferences

The size and weight capacity of a SUP are critical components to consider before purchasing a paddle board if you plan to:

• Carry cargo
• Bring along a pet, such as a dog
• Paddle with another person

Because the Aqua Marina Fusion is a longer board, you can fit more on the board. For example, if you want two adults to be able to ride together, you need all the room you can get.

Room is not the only issue of concern, though. You need to be aware of the weight of the entire load you put on the board. Even for those that do not plan to paddle with any of the above, it is still important to be conscious of the weight of a single rider. Heavier riders do not necessarily need extra space, they need increased carrying capacity.

Furthermore, if you anticipate taking longer trips on your SUP, you need to think about stability. As more time lapses on your ride, you will inevitably tire out as you paddle along. If you plan to be out on the water for extended periods of time, a short board with smaller dimensions may not be the best board for the job.

And last but not least, are you the type of paddler that makes pivot turns and wants to maneuver rapidly in the water? In other words, are you a beginner or more advanced paddler? Width and length affect the agility and speed of a SUP. Advanced riders that want an agile ride at a quick pace should get a board that is the appropriate size and style for their skill level.

Similarities Between the Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast

There are several similarities when comparing the Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast. Technological advances have come a long way when it comes to paddleboards, and the Aqua Marina Collection makes the most of technology when designing their SUPs.

Fin System

The fins of a SUP are an essential part of any board. The fin system not only helps to provide direction as you paddle, it keeps the board stable with every stroke as you shift your weight on the board. In fact, SUPs would be rather useless without a fin system. You would slip sideways with just the tiniest move.

The Fusion and Beast both utilize one center fin, compared to a three-fin setup or race fins.

Construction

Not all SUPs are inflatable like the Aqua Marina Fusion and Aqua Marina Beast. SUPs also come as hard boards or soft top boards, and while these types were once the preferred construction style, inflatable SUPs can now compete against those other options.

Due to an increase in quality thanks to modern, updated construction methods, inflatables have become a sought-after SUP. Some even feel like the latest technology practices make it difficult to distinguish inflatables from hard boards.

The Aqua Marina Fusion and Aqua Marina Beast utilize:

• Drop Stitch Light Technology
• Heat Fusion Technology
• High Frequency Welding Technology

Plus, inflatable SUPs are significantly easier to transport and store than hard or soft top boards.

Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast Comparison Guide

When comparing the Aqua Marina Fusion vs Beast, you truly can’t go wrong with either board. Both the Aqua Marina Fusion and the Aqua Marina Beast are suitable for beginners, and either board can accommodate children, adults, pets, and cargo.

Get ready to enjoy hours of fun on the water with your new SUP! And to browse the listings of our worldwide water sports community, check out the WakeScout Directory where you can find locations to water sport resorts, clubs, and schools.