Hero SUP Hybrid Crusader Inflatable SUP Review

There’s so many awesome new paddle boards coming out lately and this is definitely one of them.

The Hero Crusader inflatable SUP has been really popular for a few years now and their new Hybrid Crusader model is a cool redesign with some pretty hefty upgrades.

Still a fantastic all-around model, this ISUP will suit the majority of riders looking for a versatile, easy to paddle SUP that performs well.

I’ve been using this board for almost a year now and have found that it was ideal for all of my SUP adventures big and small.  I think people are going to love this board.

Let’s take a look at the specs and some of the upgrades from their previous Crusader model and what makes this paddle board really stand out.

HYBRID CRUSADER SPECS

• LENGTH; 11′ long or 12′ long
• WIDTH: 32″ wide
• DEPTH: 6″ deep
• WEIGHT: 21 lb or 23 lb
• MAX LOAD: 350 lb or 400 lb

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST DEAL

Go to HeroSUP.com for the best deal plus free shipping in the US.

Live in Canada?  Go the HeroSUP.ca for the best deal in CDN prices plus free shipping in Canada.

COLOUR OPTIONS

This board has four really cool colour options.

My personal fave is the Wood Grain Teal/Blue board which you’ll see in many of my photos.  This particular color comes in the 11’x32″ size option.

There is also a slightly larger Wood Grain Grey/Blue board that comes in the 12’x32″ size.  Perfect for anyone who needs a little more space and stability.

As well there are two Camo versions, the Camo Green and Camo Blue Hybrid Crusaders.  The Camo boards are really stealth looking and my boyfriend particularly likes these colours.

UPGRADED PREMIUM FEATURES

Make no mistake this is a premium model that comes at a great price.  It has some really cool features that are worth getting excited about, so let’s explore those further!

WIDER WIDTH WITH TAPERED NOSE

The design of the Hybrid Crusader is a little different from previous Hero SUP models.

This one has more of a hybrid design that is slightly wider at the center at 32″ but tapers at the nose.

The extra width keeps it very stable but the slightly tapered design allows it to cut through the water a little smoother.

I found this new design to be really fun to paddle as it’s still quite versatile.  It feels comfortable but efficient, which is such a perfect combo.

The board is stable and I think most people will feel comfortable on it quite quickly regardless of your skill level.  However it is also a little more efficient at cutting through the water with less drag than many other all-around boards of similar width.

In essence with the Hybrid Crusader you are getting a slightly more stable SUP that performs better, which equals more efficient paddling and a super fun and comfortable ride.

The design is a win in my books and anyone looking for an all-around versatile board will appreciate it.

CROSS WOVEN DROP STTCH

If you are looking into buying a new inflatable SUP it is worth taking a little time to learn about how they are constructed and what materials are used.

Believe me they are not all manufactured with the same standards and quality materials.

Woven drop stitch is the strongest PVC material you can get for inflatable SUP’s right now.  It has a tighter weave making it ultra strong but it is also very lightweight.

Combine this with fusion technology which Hero SUP uses in their construction and you get a very good quality board.

There are a handful of SUP companies using this type of construction now and making some really nice premium level boards.

Why don’t all ISUP manufactures use woven drop-stitch material?  The answer is for the simple reason that it costs quite a bit more.  It cuts strongly into the bottom line but ultimately you end up with a much better product.

However for this reason you will also find that boards constructed with woven drop-stitch typically cost a bit more.

It’s also for this reason that you don’t find too many smaller SUP companies using woven drop-stitch because it isn’t quite as cost effective for them.

Hero SUP is a smaller company yet they really value a quality product and I think it’s a big step in the right direction for them to really stand out.

IMPROVED DIAMOND GROOVE DECK PAD

I do love the new deck pad on the Hybrid Crusader.  It’s a wide diamond groove pad with almost a snake skin like design in it.

It feels really good on the feet and has great grip giving you good traction while paddling.

One of my biggest gripes is that so many SUP companies these days are using smooth lined deck pads, which do look nice and are really comfortable for just chilling out but definitely don’t provide the same amount of grip when you’re actually paddling.

So I’m a big fan of a grippy deck pad because let’s face it, when you’re paddling and you’re in the zone the last thing you want is a slippery deck pad.

This diamond groove snake-skin like pad is functional yet also comfortable.

I sometimes like to put these boards to the test with friends as well to get their opinions and this deck pad was a winner with everyone who tried it.

LOTS OF D-RINGS FOR CONNECTING ACCESSORIES

Back in the day paddle boards used to come with very few D-rings.  However as designs improved and demand for these boards increased more D-rings became wanted and needed,

The D-rings can be used as connection points for securing more gear such as your SUP leash, a seat or even a cooler if you wanted to bring one out for the day.

The 17 D-rings on this board are optimally placed so that you can connect whatever you need to for an awesome day on the water.

Also it has a bonus D-ring under the nose for towing, which I really like and you don’t always see on all paddle boards.

3 ACTION MOUNTS

Action mounts are a new accessory I started to see on inflatable paddle boards in the last couple years.

The new Crusader has three of them, one at the nose and two by the front bungees (one on each side).

The nose action mount is perfect for securing a GoPro or other action cam.  This is a great way to get some really cool shots or video while paddling.

The other two action mounts can also be used for a GoPro or you can secure a cup holder for bringing along a beverage.

Hero SUP sells these cup holders and action cam mount on their website so you can add them on to your purchase if you like.

I personally love the cup holder and find that I use it all the time, like almost every single time I’m on the water.  It’s super handy and easy to reach from the center of the board.

It’s a perfect way to keep your beverage close by and secure so that you can stay hydrated while paddling.

EASY SNAP-LOCK FIN SYSTEM

You’ll also find a different fin system on this premium line.  These boards have 3 snap-lock fins that secure within seconds and are super easy to take off as well.

The other Crusaders have a US fin box, which some people really like because you can customize the position of the fin or even switch out the fin to a different one if wanted.

However for most of us paddle boarders a snap-lock fin system is simply easier to use.

There’s no screw or bolt to have to fiddle with or possibly lose and with the three detachable snap-lock fins this board tracks extremely well.

STAND OR SIT & PADDLE KAYAK STYLE

I love the option of being able to attach a kayak seat and paddle the board sitting down kayak-style.

In fact Hero SUP sells an optional SUP to Kayak kit that includes a padded kayak seat and a kayak blade that secures to their SUP paddle so you can literally transform your SUP to a kayak.

It is very comfortable to paddle this board from the seated position on the kayak seat and with the adjustable seat straps that attach to the side D-rings on the board you can pull the back as tight as you want for extra support.

This is a fantastic option for those who may not be comfortable standing yet or for those who simply want more options from their board or a way to easily tackle some heavy winds.

I highly recommend this kayak kit.

FRONT AND BACK BUNGEES FOR SECURING GEAR

At the front of the board you’ll find a 6-point bungee system that is a really good size for securing just about any gear you’d like to bring along.

The back 4-point bungees I find ideal for storing my flip flops, a dry bag or other smaller items.

I definitely love having the two sets of bungees and I find that I use them every time I am out.

RAISED BACK KICK PAD

You’ll notice at the rear of the board the back deck pad is raised up slightly.

This is called a kick pad and it’s for solid foot placement if you are stepping back and doing pivot turns.

My boyfriend likes to play around doing pivot turns but personally I don’t as it really can make you unsteady, it takes practice!

If you are so inclined to practice some quick turns using this maneuver the kick pad is there to help you get a solid footing when you step back.

SUP DOG APPROVED!

If you’ve looked through any of my reviews you know that I am huge dog lover.  I have three little ‘SUP dogs’ who are often out riding with me so a dog-friendly board is very important to me.

Although my pups are small the Hybrid Crusader can definitely handle a larger dog and you’ll see this board often used with dog owners.

I have had no issue with claw marks or tears and as long as your dog is able to sit or lay calmly on the board you’ll have no issues.

It’s a super rewarding experience for both human and dog to be out paddling together, I highly recommend it!

For a few tips on training your dog to ride on a paddle board confidently check out my article 5 Steps to SUP With Your Pup.

BEGINNER FRIENDLY WITH ROOM TO GROW

Beginners can feel comfortable very quickly on this board and you’ll be surprised how just after a couple times out on the water your balance, skills and comfort level will improve greatly.

I think for an all-around SUP this paddle board will appeal equally to beginner paddle boarders and intermediate riders.

This is not a board you’ll get bored of because it performs well.   Unless you plan to really start doing some long distance paddles where more speed is important to you then you could look at upgrading to a leaner touring board such as the Hero SUP Dynamo.

For most outings the Hybrid Crusader will likely suit your needs best.

It works well as a family board especially the larger 12′ model and also ideal for solo riders who are just looking for a great board to ride around on lakes, ocean bays or calm rivers.

UPGRADED ACCESSORIES

The package that comes with the Hybrid Crusader is top of the line, you get a lot included for your money.

PREMIUM ROLLING BACKPACK

The new bag is a huge upgrade in my opinion.  Hero SUP has always included a pretty nice wheeled backpack with their ISUP packages.

This new bag however is larger and has more pockets for organizing and storing your gear, which I really appreciate.

It zips open on three sides making it easy to get the board in and out.  It easily fits the board and all accessories with room for a few extras if you are traveling or want to store a towel or other items.

The wheels make it super easy to transport and the air mesh padded back keeps it comfortable and breathable while carrying this bag on your back.

The multiple zippered pockets and side mesh paddle holder are well thought out and appreciated for organizing the accessories and keeping gear separated.

It’s a great bag that is very convenient to use and also works great of traveling with your ISUP.

PADDLE

The 3-piece carbon shaft paddle is lightweight at 28 ounces and can be adjusts from 65″-85″ long.

A carbon shaft is a big upgrade for a lower end aluminum or fiberglass paddle and a big plus to be included in the package.

A lighter paddle does not put as much pressure on your muscles or joints and allows you to go further with less effort.

This paddle breaks down into three pieces so that it is easy to store in the backpack and take anywhere.

SUPer PUMP

I do love this pump.  I think I’ve tried all of the SUP hand pumps on the market at this point and this is one of my top faves.

The design of it is a little bulky but not as bulky as others and it still fits nicely in the ISUP backpack.

It is really easy to use and I find that although it’s never a super fun experience to manually inflate a paddle board up to 15 PSI it’s a little easier with the SUPer Pump.

It has two different modes to make pumping easier and an integrated pressure gauge so you can watch your progress to make sure you get the correct amount of air in your board.

The recommended air pressure for the Crusader is 15 PSI.

Pro Tip:  I always recommend that when out with any board on a really hot day to only inflate it to about 13 PSI to allow room for the air to expand as air will expand in the heat. Just makes sense and helps to protect your board.

OPTIONAL ELECTRIC PUMP

Hero SUP sells the extremely popular and best selling Outdoormaster electric pumps for SUP’s as well.

You have the option of adding on the Outdoormaster Shark II 12V electric pump or the Outdoormaster Whale Rechargeable electric pump to your order.

The difference between the two is that the Shark can only be connected to the 12V DC connector in your vehicle whereas the Whale has a built-in rechargeable battery that allows it to inflate two boards with one charge.

The Whale also comes with a 12V connector if you want to connect it in your vehicle as well.  The Shark pump can inflate up to 20 PSI and the Whale can inflate up to 16 PSI.

I have used both pumps extensively and they work really well, definitely two of the best on the market.

LEASH

You also get a 10′ coiled SUP leash in the package.  Quality on these leashes can differ with different companies but this one is great quality, very durable and also an important safety item.

The leash attaches to the back D-ring on your board as well as to your ankle and keeps your board from being swept away if you should fall in the water.

10L DRY BAG

Hero SUP is the only company I know of that also includes a dry bag in their package.

This 10L dry bag is the perfect size for storing your car keys, wallet, phone, a snack or other small items that you want to bring with you and keep safe and dry.

The one that comes in their package is a white dry bag with an included adjustable shoulder strap.

REPAIR KIT

All inflatable SUP’s come with a repair kit that includes a valve wrench for tightening the valve on the board if it comes loose as well as some PVC patches that can be used if needed.

This repair kit also comes with a stick of marine glue that can be used for patching up any leaks if they occur down the road.

WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SERVICE

All Hero SUP paddle boards come with a great 2 year warranty.

I will also note that they are known for exceptional customer service, which I think is equally as important as the warranty.

I hate when I hear from people who have had bad experiences with various SUP companies and can’t even get a response from their customer service.

That’s something that I just don’t understand.  In this day and age you have to have great customer service and Hero SUP definitely does.

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST DEAL

At the moment Hero SUP only sells online and strictly from their official websites.

For US prices and free shipping within the US you can find the best deal at www.HeroSUP.com.

For Canadian prices and free shipping within Canada you can find the best prices at www.HeroSUP.ca.

MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDER DISCOUNT

Worth nothing Hero SUP offers one of the best military and first responder discounts in the industry.

For more information on how to get this discount go to this page at herosup.com for US sales or this page at herosup.ca for sales in Canada.

FINAL NOTE

As always thank you so much for checking out my review, I hope it was helpful! Please feel free to reach out by email if you have any questions or thoughts on this board or leave a comment below.

Happy paddling!!