Words & photos: Tez PlavenieksFor 2024, the long-time UK SUP brand McConks updated its paddle board range. The latest evolution looks great after testing several of the Cotswolds-based companys stand-up paddle wares in the past. I love the revamped blue colourways. But its not just aesthetics. With input from some of the countrys top paddlers, performance improvements across the range have also been crafted (passionately) into these shapes.The McConks Go Explore GT 14 x 32 x 412L is a whopper in a good way! Designed for ultimate, no-compromise adventure paddling, this board has much going on. Having inflated the board, I noticed one of the most notable things: the V-nosed displacement hull. This is a clever design trait. A small rail gives way to a shaped V integrated into the boards skin. Proper shaping, as youd find with a hard board.Elsewhere, on the tail, theres a speed release rubber rail, the option to affix two side bite fins in tandem with a US Box middle skeg, plenty of options for lashing essential gear to the deck, D-rings for even more options, a grippy deck pad and recoil leash. Manufacturing is top-notch, with high-end MXM Dropstitch used throughout. Its a tough beast akin to an off-road 44 vehicle youd use to get to those off-grid backcountry locations.On the water, the GT 14 is extremely stable. The boards flat deck can be danced upon, and theres so much room. You could quite happily get all your belongings onboard and still have space! And yet, this doesnt deter from the Go Explores paddling prowess.The nose V mentioned above comes into its own when navigating chop and breeze. Tracking is superb as it slices toward your destination. And efficiency is on point, with a few strokes keeping the momentum going. Turning, it should also be noted, isnt bad. For such a large paddle board, its pretty easy to change direction and alter your course. And itll ride a bump pretty well too!CONCLUSIONKnowing McConks well, the Go Explore GT epitomises what the brand stands for. Adventure seekers will enjoy a SUP that can be taken to all manner of hardcore touring territory. But equally, those not quite so Bear Grylls will have plenty of fun with the 14 paddling along their local stretches of water. The Go Explore 14 GT is a quality iSUP built for adventure but with a lot more versatility for good measure. And the price is bang on as well! A whole lot of SUP for what you pay.Price: 550Info: https://mcconks.com/shop/mcconks-go-explore-14i-gt-touring-paddle-board/