I’ve been paddling the Wave Tourer since the 2.0 launched, and it’s consistently featured in my rundown of the best budget paddle boards ever since. For 2026, Wave have released the Tourer 3.0 — a meaningful update rather than just a cosmetic refresh — and this review has been updated to reflect the new model.
The headline changes: a 10% lighter build, new WST™ welded seam construction for better rigidity, and a jump to 20 PSI (up from 15 on the 2.0) that makes a noticeable difference underfoot. The two-size option — 10’3″ or 11’3″ — remains, making it one of the more flexible choices in the Wave range.
Everything in the personal experience sections below was tested on the Tourer 2.0. The core board shape, dimensions, and paddling character are unchanged, so those observations hold. Where things have shifted, I’ve called it out directly in the new section below.
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Quick Overview – Updated Tourer 3.0 Specs
| Spec | Tourer 10’3″ | Tourer 11’3″ |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 312 x 81 x 15 cm (10’3″ x 32″ x 6″) | 343 x 81 x 15 cm (11’3″ x 32″ x 6″) |
| Weight | 8 kg (17 lbs) | 8.7 kg (19 lbs) |
| Max Rider Weight | 130kg (287lbs) | 160kg (352lbs) |
| Max PSI | 20 PSI | 20 PSI |
| Construction | WST™ Military-Grade PVC (heat-fused seams) | WST™ Military-Grade PVC (heat-fused seams) |
| Leash | WQR™ Quick-Release | WQR™ Quick-Release |
| Fins | Quick-Release (tool-free) | Quick-Release (tool-free) |
| Price | £179.99 | £189.99 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Wave Tourer is an inflatable stand-up paddleboard (SUP) designed for a wide range of paddlers, from beginners to intermediate enthusiasts. Offering enhanced stability and a user-friendly design, it’s ideal for extended sessions on the water.
This latest iteration features a fresh design and comes equipped with all necessary accessories for immediate water adventures, including a premium padded backpack for convenient transport and storage.
Available in several stylish designs, the Wave Tourer is built to deliver a superior paddleboarding experience, emphasizing ease of use, durability, and fun on the water.
What’s New in the Wave Tourer 3.0
Wave’s 3.0 update is the most significant revision the Tourer has had since the 2.0 launch. Here’s what’s actually changed:
WST™ — Welded Seam Technology: The biggest structural change across the whole 3.0 range. Rather than traditionally bonded seams, Wave now heat-fuses the PVC layers together. On the water, you feel this as less flex and a more planted, confident ride — especially once the board is fully inflated.
20 PSI — Up from 15: PSI This is the change that makes the most practical difference. The 2.0 was rated to 15 PSI; the 3.0 goes to 20. A properly inflated 20 PSI board is noticeably stiffer underfoot and paddles more efficiently. It’s the same principle behind why hardboards feel the way they do — stiffness translates directly to better tracking and less wasted energy per stroke.
10% Lighter: The 2.0 came in at 8.8 kg. The 3.0 shaves roughly 10% off that — so around 7.9 kg on the 11’3″. Not a dramatic difference on paper, but welcome when you’re carrying it any real distance.
WQR™ Quick-Release Leash: New push-button leash release system replaces the traditional velcro/buckle setup. Cold hands, wet fingers — you’ll notice the difference.
Quick-Release Fins: Tool-free clip-in fins instead of the screw-and-tab system on the 2.0. Faster setup, less fiddling at the water’s edge.
2-Year Warranty — Up from 1 Year: Wave has doubled the warranty on the 3.0 range from 12 months to 2 years. It’s a small detail that’s easy to overlook, but it says something about their confidence in the new construction. Worth mentioning to anyone on the fence.
New Colourways The 3.0 comes in Navy, Ice Blue, Red, and Midnight — a refresh from the 2.0’s original colourways.
What Hasn’t Changed: Length (10’3″ or 11’3″), width (32″), and thickness (6″) are identical. The board shape and intended use are the same. If you’re reading the personal experience sections below, those still apply.
Who Is the Wave Tourer for?
The Wave Tourer stands out as an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate paddleboarders, embodying the perfect blend of stability, quality, and affordability.
Priced between £180 and £190 depending on size, it represents a fantastic entry-level SUP that doesn’t skimp on quality, making it a wise investment for those new to the sport.
Its superior stability is especially beneficial for beginners, instilling confidence as they learn to navigate various water conditions. However, the Wave Tourer’s appeal extends beyond novices; intermediate paddleboarders will also find its performance and features conducive to honing their skills further.
At the core of Wave’s philosophy is the belief that paddleboarding is as much about enjoyment and fun as it is about physical activity. This ethos is reflected in the design of the Tourer, which ensures that every outing is an opportunity for adventure, regardless of skill level.
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Wave Tourer Features & Specs
The Complete Package
The updated Tourer kit comes with everything you need to get straight on the water — no extra purchases required. In the box you’ll find:
- Tourer 3.0 board
- Premium aluminium paddle
- Dual-action high-pressure pump
- Quick-release ankle leash (WQR™)
- Quick Slide fin
- Premium padded backpack
- Repair kit
I’ve shared an image from Wave to show the new and improved line-up of accessories that will be received in the 3.0 package.
Price
The Wave Tourer 3.0 is competitively priced, offering an excellent balance between quality and affordability, making it an accessible option for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
Priced between £180 and £190 depending on size, it is a steal for such a high-quality SUP, making it a no-brainer for those new to paddleboarding.
Plus, when you click through any of my links, you can save an extra 10% off the Tourer!
Weight
The board’s lightweight design ensures it is easy to carry and manoeuvre, enhancing the overall paddling experience and making transportation effortless. At just over 8kg, it is one of the lightest on the market, ideal for paddlers who frequently travel to different paddling locations or need to carry their board over longer distances.
Multiple Sizes and Weight Capacities
Available in 10’3ft and 11’3ft sizes, with specific weight capacities, the board accommodates different rider preferences and sizes, ensuring a tailored paddling experience for everyone.
Enhanced Stability
The Tourer’ 2.0’s new design significantly improves stability, perfect for extended water sessions. It’s designed to boost confidence across all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and more experienced paddlers.
New-Style Bungee Straps
The Tourer 2.0 introduces new-style bungee straps, featuring an innovative design that includes three wide, elasticated straps at the front of the board for secure storage. Integrated within this system is a convenient bottle holder, offering easy access to hydration.
12 D-Rings
Equipped with 12 strategically placed D-rings, the Tourer 2.0 offers ample options for attaching accessories and gear. Four of these D-rings are positioned mid-deck, perfectly placed for attaching a kayak seat, enhancing the board’s versatility.
Rapid Inflation
The Tourer 2.0 boasts a rapid inflation system, allowing it to inflate and deflate in under 5 minutes, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the water and less on setup. Most importantly, this means that you won’t be exhausted from pumping before you even hit the water!
High-Pressure Construction
With the ability to inflate up to 15 PSI, its high-pressure construction delivers unmatched rigidity and stability, ensuring a solid, responsive platform for paddling.
Diamond Grooved EVA Non-Slip Foot Pad
Featuring a diamond-grooved EVA non-slip foot pad, the board provides exceptional grip and comfort. This reduces slipping risks and enhances control, improving both safety and performance.
Wave Military Grade PVC Material
Built with tough, military-grade PVC, the Tourer 2.0 is designed for durability, capable of withstanding various water conditions and frequent use, ensuring longevity and reliability.
UV-Stabilised Resistant Coating
Its UV-stabilised coating offers protection against sun damage, maintaining the board’s condition over time. This protective layer ensures the board remains durable and high-performing, even with regular exposure to the elements.
Super-Reinforced Drop-Stitch Core
The board’s core is reinforced with high-fibre drop-stitch material and PVC rails, enhancing rigidity. This construction maintains the board’s shape and performance, offering a sturdy foundation for paddlers.
Wave Tourer Pros and Cons
Pros
- New-style bungee luggage straps with water bottle holder
- Rapid inflation and deflation in less than 5 minutes
- Improved durability and stability make this SUP perfect for beginners
- The board weighs 8.1kg, making this one of the lightest on the market
- Great build quality, all for a very reasonable price
Cons
- Advanced paddlers might find the board lacks the performance features desired for more challenging conditions.
- With maximum weight capacities of 130kg/140kg, those planning to carry significant gear might need to consider a larger or different model.
Unlock a 10% discount at checkout when you click through my link.
My Experience with the New and Improved Wave Tourer
Note (March 2026): The personal experience below was tested on the Tourer 2.0. I’m planning to get the 3.0 on the water later this season and will update this section when I do. The board shape is unchanged, so the handling observations still apply — the main differences you’ll feel on the 3.0 are the improved rigidity at 20 PSI and the lighter carry.
Having the chance to try out the pre-released Wave Tourer 2.0 was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. When it arrived one soggy Sunday afternoon, I wasted no time tearing open the box and laying everything out on my living room floor.
Upon initial inspection, the board’s new luggage strap system caught my eye. Instead of the usual crisscross cord, this new Wave SUP features three wide elastic straps at the front, including a nifty bottle holder within the bungee setup. Although I was curious about this design change, its real test would come once it hit the water loaded with gear.
The board boasts 12 D-rings in total, with four positioned centrally, perfect for attaching a kayak seat for those preferring a sit-down experience.
A small yet significant detail is found at the valve, which now has helpful icons indicating the correct positions for inflation and deflation. I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s worked up a sweat pumping a board to the correct psi only to disconnect the hose and have all that air come blasting out. Hopefully, this little detail will spare us from such moments.
Similarly, a guide marking on the board’s underside for the first fold helps ensure a perfect pack-up every time, avoiding the hassle of re-rolling.
Since I received a sample version, the accessories included were preliminary. In my package, I received a carry bag with padded shoulder straps, a pump, a coil leash, an all-rounder fin, and a two-piece paddle. A repair kit will be added to the final product. Should Wave send over the final versions of these accessories, I’ll be sure to update this piece and share my thoughts.
Given it was mid-February, venturing out took a bit of planning, but come Friday, I was on my way to a chosen spot, a decent walk from where I parked my van. The board’s lightweight and compact design, tipping the scales at just 8.1 kilos (12 kg when counting all the accessories), made the trek surprisingly easy. The carry bag was impressively comfortable thanks to its wide, padded shoulder straps.
Setting up was straightforward, and I quickly appreciated the easy inflation and practical design. Attaching the coil leash and securing the fin were effortless. The real test of the luggage straps came when I loaded them with gear (2 large dry bags plus the carry bag and pump). They proved to be a genuine improvement, offering secure and spacious storage.
Once I maneuvered the board into the water, the stability was immediately noticeable. Even when intentionally trying to rock it, it felt secure, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
The journey down the River Ouse in Sussex was a fun paddle, greatly enhanced by the board’s reliable stability and smooth handling. These features gave me the freedom to navigate and experiment with different stances confidently.
In summary, the Wave Tourer 2.0 has left a strong impression on me. Its thoughtful design, combined with practical features and improved stability, makes it a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. I’m eager to see how it holds up over more adventures and will keep updating my thoughts as I go.
Still not sure if the Wave Tourer is the right paddleboard for you? Wave has a board for every style and skill level. Check out my comprehensive comparison guide covering all Wave SUPs to help you find the perfect board.
One Year Later: My Long-Term Experience with the Wave Tourer
The Wave Tourer has been one of my go-to boards for almost every outing on the water over the past year. With my boys growing up and gaining confidence on the water, the Tourer has been the perfect board for my six (now seven) year old to learn how to paddle, whilst my youngest is more than happy to sit on the front as one of us paddles. It’s also been the first board I’ve grabbed whenever I’ve introduced a new friend to paddleboarding – its stability and tracking on the water give even first-time paddlers confidence from the get-go.
But there’s another big reason why I more often than not choose the Wave Tourer over any other board when I go out paddling, and that’s because it’s so lightweight. At just over 8 kilograms, it’s incredibly easy to transport and doesn’t feel like you’re lugging around a massive weight on your back if you do have to walk some distance to the water. I do love my Bluefin Cruise, but the weight and awkwardness of carrying that board anywhere put me off taking it out sometimes. With the Wave Tourer, that’s never an issue.
One year on, I’m still a massive fan of the Wave Tourer 2.0, and I can’t see that changing any time soon – well, not at least until the Wave Tourer 3.0 is released, that is (hopefully soon in 2025!).
Overall, the Wave Tourer is a fantastic board that comes at an even better price point. It can be purchased new for under £190, plus you can grab yourself an extra 10% discount if you click through any of my links. So, for a little more than what you’d spend on a very basic, generic board from Amazon, you can get yourself a premium paddleboard setup at an extremely affordable price.
Wave Tourer 3.0 Alternatives
The Wave Tourer 3.0 hits a sweet spot for most paddlers — but it’s not the right board for everyone. Here’s how it stacks up against three alternatives worth considering.
| Spec | Wave Tourer 3.0 | Wave Pro 3.0 | Bluefin Cruise 10’8″ | Red Paddle Co Ride 10’8″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 10’3″ | 12’6″ | 10’8″ | 10’8″ |
| Width | 32″ | 32″ | 33″ | 32″ |
| Thickness | 6″ | 6″ | 6″ | 4.7″ |
| Weight | 8 kg | 9.5 kg | 9.1 kg | 11.1 kg |
| Max PSI | 20 PSI | 20 PSI | 28 PSI | 25 PSI |
| Paddle included | Yes (aluminium) | Yes (carbon) | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | 5 years | 2 years |
| Price | £179.99 | £269.99 | £359.99 | £599.95 |
Wave Pro 3.0
If you’ve enjoyed paddling the Tourer and want to step up, the Pro 3.0 is the natural next move. At 12’6″ it’s noticeably longer, which translates to better glide, stronger tracking, and more speed over distance. The trade-off is that it’s less manoeuvrable in tighter spaces and requires a bit more balance confidence.
The kit is also a step up — carbon fibre paddle and a wheeled carry case rather than a backpack. At £269.99 it’s £80 more than the Tourer 11’3″, but you’re getting a board you’ll grow into.
I’ve tested the Pro 3.0 personally — read my full review here.
Bluefin Cruise
The Bluefin Cruise is the Tourer’s most direct competitor in the UK market. The main differentiators are the higher max PSI (28 vs 20) and Bluefin’s 5-year warranty, which is hard to ignore if longevity matters to you. The downside is price — at £359.99 it’s nearly double the Tourer’s entry point, and it comes in heavier too.
Get the full breakdown in my Bluefin Cruise Review
Red Paddle Co Ride 10’8″
Red Paddle Co are the benchmark for premium inflatable SUPs in the UK, and the Ride 10’8″ is their most popular all-round board. At £599.95 it costs more than three times the Tourer’s entry price — so this isn’t really a head-to-head value comparison, it’s more a question of what that premium actually buys you.
The main thing is the MSL® construction. Red Paddle Co’s Monocoque Structural Laminate uses machine-welded laminate layers rather than glued PVC, which creates a remarkably stiff board at lower inflation pressures. It’s also noticeably heavier as a result — 11.1 kg vs the Tourer’s 8.7 kg — which is worth knowing if portability matters to you.
If you’re a serious paddler who’ll be on the water regularly for years and wants the best-built inflatable you can buy, Red Paddle Co is the answer. If you want great value and a capable board for regular use, the Tourer 3.0 is the more honest choice for most people.
More Inflatable Paddle Boards
Take a look at my Best Budget Paddle Boards list to compare how the Wave Tourer compares against others.
More Wave Tourer Photos
Final Thoughts
The Wave Tourer emerges as a top pick for those seeking a blend of value and performance in paddleboarding. Ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers, it offers stability, ease of use, and affordability. This paddleboard is a practical choice for anyone looking to enjoy water sports without breaking the bank.
For those ready to explore further options or seeking advice on budget-friendly paddleboards, check out our guide to the best budget paddleboards. It’s packed with insights to help you find the right board that fits your needs and budget.
Unlock a 10% discount at checkout when you click through my link.
Wave Tourer FAQs
Related Guides and Reviews
If you loved this, well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- Wave Pro 3.0 Paddleboard (SUP) Review
- Wave Paddle Boards Compared: Your Complete Guide to Every Wave SUP
- How To Paddle Board: Complete SUP Guide for Beginners
- Best Paddle Board Accessories
- The Waterways Licence Explained
- Best Dryrobe Alternative Changing Robes
I was kindly gifted the Wave Tourer 2.0 to test and review. My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own unbiased opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you. You can read my affiliate disclosure in the privacy policy.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
