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Think · Surfski · Out of production

Think Evo III

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.

Length
6.25 m
Beam
47 cm
Deck
33.5 cm
Lightest
10.4 kg
Side view unavailable
Top view unavailable
Think Evo III, hull profile
hull profile · surfskiracing.org

Specifications

Length
6.25 m
Beam
47 cm
Deck height
33.5 cm (est.)
Category
Surfski
Usually paddled by
Paddlers in chop
New price
A$3,990

Layup weights

Performance15 kg
Elite12.5 kg
Ultimate10.4 kg

On-water profile

Stability
6–8
Dimension estimateLow confidence
Speed
8

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. How we rate.

Stability here means how steady the ski feels sitting still on flat water. Where two craft have overlapping ranges, we can't say which is more stable. Downwind handling is a separate thing, covered in the evidence note below.

Evidence note

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

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.

Paddler weight

The estimated sweet spot is 84–97 kg, with a broader estimated guide of 68–101 kg. This estimate is a guide, not a limit. Seat fit, conditions and paddling style matter. Lighter paddlers can still enjoy a larger hull, especially downwind. A test paddle is the best check.

Estimated from hull dimensions using a formula fitted to makers’ own paddler limits. It does not establish the designer’s intended paddler weight. How this is worked out.

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.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • 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

Cons

  • 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

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).Reported experience
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).Reported experience

Where to buy

The Evo III is out of production. You can only buy it second-hand.

Think Kayak ↗

Dealers:

AUD (Expedition Kayaks), sold as 'Evo Gen 3': Performance 15kg $3,990, Elite 12.5kg $4,990, Ultimate (custom carbon) $6,300.

Sources