Starboard Gen R vs. All Star – Which is the best

If you’re deciding between the Starboard All Star and the new Gen R, this detailed video review from SUPBoarder Magazine is a must-watch. Both boards are high-performance race machines - but which one suits your paddling style and conditions best?

In this comparison, you’ll get:

✔ A full breakdown of the deck layouts, rail shapes, and bottom contours

✔ How each board feels in flatwater, chop, and technical racing

✔ Stability comparisons: primary vs secondary

✔ Step-back turning and maneuverability highlights

✔ Which board is easier to paddle, and which is faster in rougher water

✔ Practical tips on which to choose based on your skill level and goals

Key highlights - Starboard All Star

Stable. Powerful. Built for performance in all water conditions.

› Best in rough and challenging conditions – thanks to its higher volume nose and sharp rails

› Exceptional secondary stability from the deep dugout deck design

› Slightly more technical to paddle, especially for lower-level riders

› Faster in extreme conditions, particularly when punching upwind or through chop

› Reacts well to powerful paddle strokes – great for advanced racers who want to push hard

› Can feel twitchy on flatwater if not properly trimmed – demands good technique

› Harder to remount due to higher rails

› Less comfortable for foot movement – more confined cockpit feel

Starboard Gen R vs. All Star – Which is the best for you? / SUPboarder Comparison

Explore All Star >

Explore Gen R >

Key highlights - Starboard Gen R

User-friendly. Fast. Designed for efficiency and control.

› Easier to paddle and more accessible for intermediate riders

› Flatter deck and lower stance improve comfort and mobility

› Tracks straighter with fewer paddle side changes – more efficient over distance

› More planted, stable feel with better primary stability than the All Star

› Ideal for flatwater and technical racing, but still handles bumps and waves well

› Lighter and easier to carry, maneuver, and remount

› Faster step-back turns and smoother transitions – excellent for beach races

› Slightly wetter ride, with less nose volume compared to the All Star