The Ultimate Guide to the Isle Switch Inflatable SUP: Perfect for Fishing and More!

Hey there, how’s it going? Today, I’m thrilled to share my comprehensive review of the Isle Switch Hybrid Kayak SUP, an inflatable SUP perfect for fishing and recreational paddling. This watercraft has truly made my recent trips memorable, and I believe it’s worth every bit of attention it’s getting. Let’s dive into why this versatile inflatable SUP could be your next best purchase.

First Impressions and Features

During my stay at a marina in Florida, I had the opportunity to use the Isle Switch Hybrid Kayak SUP while living in a charming floating tiny home. Despite the high winds on some days, the two trips I managed to take out on this inflatable SUP created some of my best fishing memories. On my first outing on the upper Manatee River, I hooked a monster snook. The next day, I took it to the canals in Naples, Florida, and landed a bucket-list peacock bass. These experiences would not have been possible without the Isle Switch, thanks to its light and portable design.

The Isle Switch is an inflatable SUP that functions both as a kayak and a stand-up paddleboard, offering remarkable flexibility. This dual functionality makes it an excellent choice for those who can’t decide between a kayak and a paddleboard. The Switch incorporates Isle’s Air Tech Fusion Light technology, making it 25% lighter than standard inflatables. Weighing just 19 pounds, this SUP fits into a carrying bag the size of a large suitcase, which is incredibly convenient for travel and storage.

Customization and Accessories

One of the standout features of the Isle Switch is its I-Link Connect System, allowing for extensive customization. This system enables you to add or remove bungee systems, seats, and foot braces, tailoring the setup to your specific needs. The Switch comes with a variety of accessories, including a high-capacity hand pump, a travel backpack, a hybrid paddle, a removable fin, an inflatable seat, and a foot brace. These accessories enhance the overall experience, making this inflatable SUP a versatile and comprehensive package.

The carrying bag is well-designed, with padded handles and extra straps for tying down additional gear. It’s easy to transport, whether you’re heading to the beach, river, or airport. The bag is about the size of a large suitcase, making it convenient to throw in the back of any vehicle with trunk space. Additionally, the inflatable SUP can be car-topped or easily deflated and packed away, offering flexibility depending on your travel situation.

One other accessory I’ve been using the last several months is a battery-operated pump to inflate the paddleboard. This has further increased it’s portability and flexibility – easily allowing me to put the Isle Switch in the trunk of the car and just go wherever I want and inflate the board when I get there.

While Isle does offer their own pumps, the one I’ve been using is the Zetta 138 from Aerogogo. You can see my full review of it here.

Stability and Performance

When it comes to stability, the Isle Switch excels. Measuring 11 feet 6 inches in length and 36 inches wide, this inflatable SUP provides a stable platform for various activities. The deck is made of sea deck material, which is soft, padded, and remains cool even under the hot sun. I spent hours on the deck, and despite the Florida sun, it didn’t heat up, keeping me comfortable throughout my trips.

The seat is another highlight. It’s incredibly comfortable, adjustable, and molds to your body. Sitting on a cushion of air, you can easily adjust the seat to your liking with just a few pumps. The footrest adds to the comfort, allowing for different sitting positions. Whether I was sitting cross-legged or using the straps on the side of the footrest for added stability, the comfort level was impressive.

Performance in the Water

In terms of performance, the Isle Switch did not disappoint. It is rock-solid stable and performs surprisingly well in speed and maneuverability. Even though I didn’t get a chance to use it as a stand-up paddleboard due to high winds and alligators in the water, it remained extremely stable during my fishing trips. The stability is comparable to high-end fishing kayaks and surpasses traditional canoes in terms of rock-solid performance.

Edit: I have since used the Switch Pro in non-alligator infested waters of Pennsylvania, and standing up is indeed a breeze! Same specs, except the Pro can accept a motor, like the Bixpy K-1!

The lightweight design of the inflatable SUP makes it easy to handle, even in windy conditions. I found that heading into the wind or staying close to the water’s edge helped manage the board better. When the wind picked up, it moved the board, but with a bit of paddling and course adjustment, it was manageable. This SUP’s design allows it to navigate through shallow waters as little as eight inches deep, making it ideal for fishing in skinny water environments.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of the Isle Switch is top-notch. Despite being an inflatable, it’s incredibly firm and feels like a serious piece of recreational equipment. The fit and finish are excellent, with well-thought-out connections and bungee systems for securing gear. The paddle is lightweight and ergonomically designed with an oval handle for maximum comfort and efficiency.

Deflating and packing up the board is quick and easy. The high-capacity pump makes inflation and deflation a breeze, taking only a few minutes for each process. After a day of fishing, deflating the board and packing it into the car was almost as quick as strapping it to the roof, offering great flexibility depending on your situation.

Premium Quality and Price

Priced at an MSRP $995, the Isle Switch is a premium product, but it offers excellent value for its quality, features, and versatility. The capacity of 425 pounds means it can handle a substantial amount of gear or accommodate two paddlers comfortably. The board’s ability to transform from a kayak to a stand-up paddleboard adds to its appeal, catering to different preferences and activities.

Edit: As of 7/24/24, the Switch 3 is only $795 and includes a free dry bag!

Reviewers, including myself, praise the Isle Switch for its stability, comfort, and performance. It’s rock-solid stable, ultra-comfortable with adjustable seating and foot braces, and performs well in terms of speed and maneuverability. It’s an ideal choice for those willing to invest in a high-quality, customizable, and multi-functional inflatable watercraft.

Edit: for 2024 Isle has updated the Switch to the “Switch 3”, and now there are 2 color options: Seafoam / Navy and Aqua / Navy. But they also improved the rail welding for more durability in this inflatable SUP!

Final Thoughts

The Isle Switch Hybrid Kayak SUP has impressed me with its versatility, stability, and convenience. It has made my fishing trips more enjoyable and provided me with a reliable platform for exploring new waters. The ability to customize the setup, combined with the high-quality accessories, makes this inflatable SUP a standout product.

If you’re in the market for an inflatable SUP that offers both kayak and stand-up paddleboard functionality, the Isle Switch is an excellent choice. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or a recreational paddler, this board has the features and performance to meet your needs. I can’t recommend it enough, and I’m looking forward to more adventures with this fantastic inflatable SUP.

Thanks for reading, and if you decide to get the Isle Switch, be sure to use my link to help support my channel and enable me to create more reviews like this. Happy paddling!