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Think · Surfski

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
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
Skill level
intermediate
New price
A$3,990

Layup weights

Performance15 kg
Elite12.5 kg
Ultimate10.4 kg

On-water profile

Stability
5.5
Speed
8.0

Both scores are rated at the hull's own design weight. How these are derived.

Narrower than Evo II (47 vs 48cm) and flatter/firmer nets a step down in primary stability but up in speed; surfskiracing.org calls it 'advanced intermediate' with an inherent twitch, running 2-3 boat lengths behind an Epic V10 3G-class paddler in mixed conditions.

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

This hull is built around a paddler of about 95 kg. It stays workable from 83 kg to 101 kg, and sits at its best between 88 kg and 97 kg.

Derived from published hull dimensions and calibrated against manufacturer paddler limits, not taken from a marketing range. The method, in full.

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 works, and what it costs you

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

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

Think Kayak ↗

Dealers in the markets we have mapped:

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

Sources