Yes. The stable platform and generous deck space make it well-suited for paddling with a child, dog, or extra gear thats not too heavy. Just be mindful of overall weight limits and conditions.

Let's talk about what makes the EPX Oahu special in terms of construction. The EPX version isn't just about durability - it's about achieving the perfect balance of performance, weight, and refinement that makes this board sing in the conditions it was designed for. Think of it like a high-end surfboard - it's built to perform beautifully and look stunning while doing it.

The EPX construction uses sophisticated fiberglass composite materials combined with natural bamboo reinforcement through advanced lamination techniques. This blend of modern and natural materials creates something special - the bamboo doesn't just add stunning aesthetics, it integrates with the fiberglass to enhance the board's overall strength and performance characteristics. The result is a lightweight, responsive board that delivers exactly what you want in surf conditions or during balance-focused activities like yoga. While it's certainly well-built and will last for decades with proper care, its primary focus is on performance and aesthetic refinement rather than pure durability.

Each of our construction methods serves a specific purpose:

• EPX (like in this Oahu): Premium performance, refined feel, and classic beauty, enhanced with bamboo reinforcement
• VFT: Vacuum Formed Technology (Thermo Plastics) Maximum durability for challenging conditions
• Inflatable: Ultimate portability and durability for travel and transport
• Ricochet Technology (found in our Endurance and Angler models): Our most advanced composite construction for serious impact resistance. This technology increases breaking strength by 3X while adding minimal weight, making it perfect for fishing in rocky areas or touring in challenging conditions

If you're looking for a board that can handle more punishing environments, consider our models with Ricochet Technology, VFT construction, or Solo Tech Ultralight Inflatable Dropstich. The Oahu EPX is designed to be the board you take care of, not the one you bang around. It's for paddlers who appreciate the nuances of a well-crafted board and understand that treating it with respect will reward them with years of high-performance paddling and timeless style.

This quality is reflected in our REI assessment scores, where we received top marks for materials selection and manufacturing practices. But more importantly, it's proven by the many Oahu EPX's still performing beautifully after years of dedicated use by paddlers who understand and appreciate what this construction is all about.

Our commitment to environmental responsibility isn't just talk - it's independently verified through REI's rigorous Product Impact Standards, where we've earned a position in the top 10% of outdoor brands. What does this mean in practical terms? We've achieved this through specific, measurable actions:

Manufacturing Excellence (10/10 score):

• Our advanced EPX construction integrates natural bamboo with composite materials
• Precision manufacturing processes that minimize waste
• Carefully controlled material selection and sourcing
• Rigorous quality control that ensures longevity

Supply Chain Integrity (9/10 score):

• Full oversight of our supply chain
• Partnership with suppliers who meet strict environmental standards
• Transparent documentation of material sources
• Regular audits and performance reviews

Materials Management (7/10 score):

• Focus on durable, long-lasting materials
• Integration of sustainable components where possible
• Strict adherence to REI's chemicals management protocol
• Regular testing and verification of material performance

Product Longevity (7/10 score):

• Boards designed and built to last decades with proper care
• Comprehensive repair support program
• Detailed care instructions provided with every board
• Construction methods chosen to maximize lifespan

Perhaps most importantly, we approach sustainability from a practical paddler's perspective. We believe the most sustainable board is one that doesn't need to be replaced every few years. That's why we focus on building boards that last, using construction methods and materials that stand the test of time. Our Oahu EPX isn't just built to perform - it's built to become a lasting part of your paddling journey, not another piece of gear that ends up being replaced.

This commitment to quality and sustainability isn't just good for the environment - it's good for you as a paddler. When you choose a Pau Hana board, you're investing in a product that's been vetted through some of the industry's most stringent environmental and quality standards, backed by real data and independent verification from REI's comprehensive assessment process.