# Think Evo III

> Surfski by Think, out of production. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/think-evo-iii/
> Cite as: Think Evo III, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/think-evo-iii/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Length: 6.25 m
- Beam: 47 cm
- Deck height: 33.5 cm (estimated)
- Layup weights: Performance 15 kg, Elite 12.5 kg, Ultimate 10.4 kg
- Usually paddled by: Paddlers in chop

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability band 6–8 out of 10 (dimension estimate, low confidence).
- Speed rated 8 out of 10.

Modelled from published beam, length and deck height. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight.

These ratings are Surfski Index estimates, worked out from published dimensions, traced hull shapes where we have them, and reviews. They are not supplied by the maker or timed on the water. How a ski feels depends on your weight, skill, set-up and the conditions, so use them to shortlist skis and paddle one before you buy. Method: https://surfskiindex.com/how-it-works/#limits

Evidence note: This band is estimated from published dimensions. Qualitative context includes 2 paddler reports and 7 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Estimated sweet spot 84–97 kg, broader estimated guide 68–101 kg. An estimate from hull dimensions, not the designer's intended weight.

## Suits
Best downwind where the firmer hull tracks and holds runs; needs more attention than the Six or Evo II in flat confused chop, especially in the lighter Ultimate layup.

## Hull
Flatter-bottomed hull than the Evo II through the midsection for a firmer, more locked-in feel, reverting to Evo II-style rocker toward the stern for run-catching. Narrow (47cm) beam at the catch keeps the stroke efficient; the carbon Ultimate layup is noticeably twitchier than the heavier layups.

## What works
- Faster than Evo II on the flat while keeping strong downwind manners
- Reworked bucket: raised thigh support, flared calf contacts, comfortable and secure
- Responsive sporty handling that rewards a developed paddler
- Micro-adjustable foot track, DeBrito bailer, integrated leash attachment

## Trade-offs
- Noticeably twitchier than Evo II and the Six, especially in the Ultimate layup
- Requires adaptation: not a true beginner boat despite the 'Evo' reputation
- Ultimate (lightest, fastest) layup sacrifices the most stability

## Generations
- 2017-present: Marketed as 'Evo Gen 3'. Flatter hull than the Evo II from ~7ft9in back from the bow to just aft of the bailer, then reverts to Evo II-like shape toward the stern. Reworked bucket: raised thigh support, flared calf contact points, ergonomic contours, micro-adjustable foot track.

## What paddlers say
- "The Evo 3 Ultimate, like all carbon skis, [is] less stable than their slightly heavier layups" such as the Elite (surfskiracing.org).
- Reviewer paddled 'even to 2-3 boat lengths behind' an Epic V10 3G-class paddler in mixed conditions, praising fit and downwind response (surfskiracing.org).

## Sources
- https://surfskiracing.org/2018/03/think-evo-3-ultimate-surfski-review/
- https://expeditionkayaks.com/products/think-evo-ii
- https://surfski.info/forum/19-boats/19003-think-evo-3rd-generation.html
- https://thinkkayak.com
- https://thinkkayak.com/think-evo
- https://www.coastoutdoors.ca/evo-elite-gen-3.html
- https://www.coastoutdoors.ca/paddling/surfskis/think-surfskis/

## Prices
Current new prices and dealers: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/think-evo-iii/#buy