Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has surged in popularity in the world of water sports, but it often demands a certain level of strength and endurance.
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Motivated by his daughters' challenges in handling strong currents, Slovenian entrepreneur Sebastjan Sitar set out to make the sport more accessible to people of all physical abilities.
In 2016, he launched SipaBoards in Kamnik, Slovenia, and introduced the world’s first jet-propelled, self-inflating paddleboard. While electric and self-inflating boards existed independently, Sitar’s design was the first to combine both features into a single board.
"The goal wasn't to change the sport but to broaden its appeal. People feel much more secure knowing they have an engine to help them return to shore," Sitar explained.
The Next Wave of Technology
SipaBoards’ latest model, the Sipa Drive All-Rounder, features a fully integrated jet engine powered by dual batteries that can last up to six hours.
The board also includes a built-in compressor that inflates it with the push of a button, reaching optimal pressure in just minutes. Capable of speeds up to 4.3 miles per hour on the water, the board is equipped with a Bluetooth smart paddle that doubles as a remote control for the motor.
Riders can inflate the board and adjust its speed using the SipaBoards app, which also monitors battery life and tracks the distance covered.
"The engine is like a small submarine, with an easy-to-remove cover for accessing the batteries, recharging the board, and getting back on the water," Sitar said.
Currents of Change
When SipaBoards first introduced the concept of an electric motor in paddleboards, there was initial skepticism about mixing electricity and water. However, Sitar believes the innovative design ensures rider safety.
"Once people try the board and see how stable and fun it is to use, they quickly change their minds," he said.
Other options have since emerged for powering paddleboards. Scubajet offers a portable jet system for divers and swimmers that can also be attached to canoes and SUPs, while Jobe has developed an SUP with an integrated motor that also inflates the board.
With the global stand-up paddleboard market projected to reach $1.65 billion in 2023, according to market research firm Fact.MR, Sitar believes SipaBoards’ electric models will revolutionize SUP, much like electric bikes have transformed cycling, allowing users to go faster and cover longer distances with less effort.
However, these boards are significantly more expensive than standard inflatable SUPs, which start at around $160. Sitar’s e-SUP models are now available in 38 markets worldwide, starting at €3,025 (approximately $3,260). SipaBoards is also working to establish SUP rental locations globally, aiming to partner with 30 locations by the start of the 2024 season.
"We want to build a social network for electric water sports enthusiasts, where people can share their experiences, create new paddle routes, and connect with other riders," Sitar said.
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