# Think Zen

> Surfski by Think. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/think-zen/
> Cite as: Think Zen, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/think-zen/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Length: 5.6 m
- Beam: 52 cm
- Deck height: 33.5 cm (estimated)
- Layup weights: Performance 14.5 kg, Elite 12 kg, Ultimate 10.5 kg
- Usually paddled by: New paddlers

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability rated 9 out of 10 (traced hull, medium confidence).
- Speed rated 6 out of 10.

Modelled from this hull's traced beam and depth at its design weight. Medium 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 based on a trace of this hull’s geometry. Qualitative context includes 2 paddler reports and 3 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Think rates this hull for paddlers from 50 kg to 100 kg.

## Suits
Mixed chop, beam seas, moderate downwind runs and flat water; wants a splash guard for choppy upwind. Suits Gold Coast beach launches and moderate downwind days.

## Hull
Beamy, planted hull with a narrower-than-expected bucket built for medium/small paddlers; planes early on a wave and holds a stable predictable line in rough water, with fine entry lines forward of the seat carried over from Think's race skis.

## What works
- Excellent ergonomic Think bucket fit for medium/small frames
- Stable in beam seas and mixed chop, planes early on waves
- Lightweight for its performance class
- Broad appeal from beginners building confidence to advanced paddlers wanting a playful, safer ski

## Trade-offs
- Standard 7in rudder can feel small in bigger conditions
- Needs a splash guard for wet upwind paddling
- Ultimate layup is always a custom order with longer lead time

## Generations
- 2020-present: Listed by AU dealer Expedition Kayaks since May 2020; sits between Eze and Ion, positioned as a confidence-inspiring but not pure entry-level ski for medium/small paddlers.

## What paddlers say
- "Eager like an Australian Cattle Dog, ready, willing and able" with a good turn of speed and stability in rough water (SurfSkiRacing.com, 2019 first-take review).
- Dealer copy: "feels like a longer, narrower ski... but is free of vices and surprises in the rough stuff... the type of ski most aspiring ocean paddlers should be paddling", Expedition Kayaks.

## Sources
- https://expeditionkayaks.com/products/think-zen-surfski
- https://surfskiracing.org/2019/07/think-zen-surfski-1st-take-review/
- https://thinkkayak.com/think-zen

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