For the paddler who has outgrown their first all-rounder and wants more from their time on the water, the Red Paddle Co Sport range is the definitive next step. While the Ride range is built for maximum stability, the Sport range is designed for speed, efficiency, and sophisticated tracking.
At The SUP Company, we’ve been putting the 2026 fleet through its paces. This year is a landmark for Red, specifically with the introduction of the Future Series and the high-performance Sport Plus models. Whether you’re tackling the coastal chop of the South Coast or gunning for a personal best on a glassy canal, choosing the right Sport model is about matching your weight and ambitions to the right hull shape.
The 2026 Sport Lineup: Finding Your Fit
The Sport range features a narrower nose to cut through water and a pulled-in tail for better release. For 2026, the range has been refined into three distinct categories: Standard MSL, the higher-performance "Plus" models, and the ultra-stiff "Future Series."
1. The Agile Performers: 11'0" & 11'3" Sport
- 11'0" Sport MSL: At 30" wide, this is the go-to for lighter riders (under 90kg) who want a board that feels nimble and reactive. It’s perfect for fast fitness sessions.
- 11'3" Sport MSL: The most popular board in the range. At 32" wide, it offers the stability of an all-rounder but with the glide of a tourer. It is the definitive "first touring board" for UK paddlers.
- 11'3" Sport Future Series: This is the high-performance version of Red's bestseller. It maintains the 32" width but utilizes the MSL 800 woven core, making it lighter and significantly stiffer. If you want the stability of an 11'3 but the "snap" of a race board, this is it.
2. The Distance Specialists: 12'6" Sport vs. 12'6" Sport Plus
The 12'6" length is the "Gold Standard" for touring speed. For 2026, Red has introduced distinct widths and constructions to cater to different skill levels:
- 12'6" Sport MSL: The classic 30" wide touring shape. Perfect for those who want serious glide without the board feeling too "tippy" in a side-wind.
- 12'6" Sport Plus Futures Series: New for 2026. This is a narrower 28" wide crossover. It’s designed for lightweight efficiency and smaller paddlers who want a fast, responsive board that sits low to the water.
- 12'6" Sport Future Series: The 30" wide touring shape but upgraded with MSL 800 construction. This is the ultimate "buy-once, cry-once" touring board for 2026.
3. The New Powerhouse: 14'0" Sport Plus Future Series
New for 2026, the 14'0" Sport Plus Future Series is a revelation. At 28" wide, it is built for pure speed. Historically, 14-foot inflatables suffered from "deck flex." By using the ultra-stiff Future Series construction, Red has created a board that stays dead-flat, allowing you to maintain incredible momentum over long distances.
Construction Comparison: MSL vs. Future Series
The 2026 range gives you the choice between Red’s legendary MSL and the high-performance Future Series (MSL 800). Here is how they stack up at the Test Centre:
| Feature | MSL (Adventure Range) | Future Series (MSL 800) |
|---|---|---|
| Core | Standard Monocoque Structural Laminate | High-Modulus MSL 800 Woven Core |
| Stiffness | Industry Leading | Approx. 25% Stiffer Performance |
| Feel | Predictable & Durable | Ultra-Reactive / Carbon-like Response |
| Available On | 11'0, 11'3, 12'6 Sport Models | 11'3, 12'6, 12'6+, 14'0+ Models |
The Future Series uses a high-density woven core. When you add the RSS (Rocker Stiffening System) battens, the board becomes a rigid platform that feels remarkably like a hard board. This is essential for the longer 12'6 and 14'0 models where flex is the enemy of speed.
The Paddle: Your Engine for 2026 (Don’t Skimp on the Motor)
If there is one thing we hammer home at the Test Centre, it’s this: The paddle is half the experience. The Red Sport and Future Series boards are designed for speed and efficiency, but if you pair them with a heavy, basic paddle, you are essentially dragging an anchor. At The SUP Company, we offer exclusive discounted paddle upgrades with every board because we want you to feel the true performance of the kit.
Choosing Your Flex and Feel
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The Hybrid (Carbon/Glass): The perfect entry point. It uses a 50% carbon weave to keep the weight down while retaining a bit of "flex" in the shaft—forgiving on the joints for long distances.
View the Red Hybrid Paddle -
The Prime (100% Carbon): The "Sweet Spot" for the Sport range. Made from 100% forged carbon, it is incredibly light and stiff. It allows for a higher "cadence" (faster strokes) without the fatigue.
View the Red Prime Carbon Paddle -
The Ultimate (High-Modulus Carbon): The only logical choice for a Future Series board. It uses high-modulus Japanese carbon—the lightest and stiffest material available. The energy transfer is instant; every ounce of effort moves the board forward.
View the Red Ultimate Carbon Paddle
Speak to our Experts
Choosing between an 11'3" Future Series and a 12'6" Sport Plus is a nuanced decision. Our team is on the water weekly testing these exact setups. Get in touch for honest, specialist advice.
Test Centre: Woodmill Activity Centre, Woodmill Lane, Southampton, SO18 2JR
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an 11'3" Sport Plus?
No. The 11'3" Sport already offers a perfect balance of stability (32" width) and speed. Red reserves the "Plus" designation for models where they have refined the template for higher performance (like the 28" wide 12'6 and 14'0 Plus models).
What makes the 11'3" Future Series better than the MSL version?
The Future Series uses MSL 800 material, which is stiffer and lighter. This results in less drag and better glide, making it easier to maintain speed, especially if you're paddling against the wind or tide.
Does the Sport range include a paddle?
The boards are sold as a package with a bag and pump. However, at The SUP Company, we offer significant discounts on premium carbon paddles when purchased with a Sport board to ensure you have the best possible setup.
Ready to demo the 11'3 Future Series?
Book a session at our Test Centre. We have the full 2026 Sport and Future Series range ready for back-to-back testing on the water.