tldr; Mid-range all-around iSUP with carbon rails, solid performer but some prefer updated versions.
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Best praise vs top criticism for Thurso Waterwalker
โI think you've got it narrowed down really well. For your size I think you'll like the [Expedition 150](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/thurso-surf-expedition-150-review/) better since it's just 30" wide instead of 32" wide on the [carta marina](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/seagods-carta-marina-cx-isup-review/). If you were to do more expedition type paddling (multi-day), then the extra width might be nice, but I've used the Expedition 150 for overnight trips with no issues (I'm 230 lbs + gear). I don't know what your wife's size is, but depending on her skill level and desired use, you may want to go with the [Waterwalker 132](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/thurso-surf-waterwalker-132-review/) for her instead of the 126. Thurso reduces both the length and width of their boards as you go down in size. This latest iteration of the Waterwalker series is a little narrower than the previous. especially if she is not going to be using it as frequently, then that increase in stability from a slightly larger board might be good if she is around your size. Though if she is much smaller than you then the [waterwalker 126](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/thurso-surf-10-6-sup-review/) would likely work well. The [elemental wave](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/sea-gods-elemental-wave-ulf-isup-review/) is pretty similar in stability to the 132/126, but is noticeably lighter. Is the Lifetime warranty worth the extra cost? That's a question for the ages. On one hand its nice to know that any structural issues are covered, but on the other hand you're likely to find those structural issues within the first year or two of ownership anyway. The other half of that is locality. You could literally walk into Sea God's shop and walk out with a board, and then you'll have a direct connection with the owners. That's definitely got some intangible value to it. I think more important to compare are the size/shape/weight and overall look of the board. The Expedition 150 is pretty vanilla compared to the rocky road of the Sea Gods boards. I don't think you'll go wrong with either option, honestly. The Expedition 150 is going to be more a true fitness/touring board where the Carta Marina is more of an Adventure touring board. You'll have to make the call between that and your budget. Which reminds me, you should absolutely get the [Thurso Carbon Elite paddle blade](https://www.inflatableboarder.com/best-sup-paddles/#thursocarbon) upgrade for your touring board if you go Thurso. It's 100% worth it and is the cheapest way to get into a full carbon fiber paddle (otherwise you'll have to buy a whole second paddle). That will make a huge difference on your fitness and exploration paddle trips. The Sea Gods paddle is nice, but the blade is a bit large/heavy for long distance paddling, IMO. I would love to see them come out with a premium paddle option to go with boards like the Carta Marina and Keto (and their upcoming West Coast board they'vโ
โThe Thurso Waterwalker is $699 as a full package. It says so clearly on their site. There's no bait and switch to it. Many brands appear to mostly be trying to work with the stick they have to avoid the ridiculous tariffs that are now in effect and are likely hoping they will be reduced before they absolutely have to take delivery on new stock. You could get away with the Retro Elite or Wander. It's a little small for you and a little big for her, but not by a ton. iRocker is running some big sales right now. You could do the Model XL 6.0 for you and All Around 7.0 for her and it would be pretty close to the Max and Waterwalker.โ
147 Reddit opinions analyzed โข Last updated 2/24/2026