Top Beginner Kayaks

1. Bonafide EX123
A standout for stability and value, the Bonafide EX123 is a sit-inside recreational kayak priced at $1,100. Its frame seat and ample storage make it a user-friendly choice for new paddlers.

2. Sea Eagle 370
For just $330 (including paddle and pump), the inflatable Sea Eagle 330 is unbeatable for affordability and versatility. It fits one or two paddlers and folds down for easy transport.

3. Native Falcon 11
This $1,000 sit-on-top kayak shines for comfort and portability. The adjustable frame seat and built-in stern wheel make solo launching a breeze.

Top Touring Kayaks

1. Delta 15.5 GT
Lightweight and loaded with storage, this thermorformed touring kayak ($2,300) is perfect for long-distance paddlers seeking comfort and speed.

2. P&H Virgo
Available in multiple sizes, the Virgo ($2,100) delivers both carving turns and performance stability with its V-hull and hard chines.

3. Melker Värmdö
Made from plant-based resin and flax, this eco-conscious kayak offers stellar handling in all conditions, wrapped in an eye-catching design.

Top Inflatable Kayaks

1. Hobie iTrek 9
At $2,500, this inflatable pedal kayak is the most maneuverable of the bunch—ideal for those who want pedal power in a portable package.

2. NRS Star Raven Pro
Built for whitewater, this $1,100 kayak comes with foot braces, thigh hooks, and a 3-year warranty—durable enough to take on rapids.

3. Sea Eagle 393 RazorLite
Designed for performance, the $1,000 RazorLite cuts through water like a hard shell while still folding into a compact bag.

Top Recreational Kayaks

1. Hurricane Prima 125 Sport
Weighing just 40 lbs and priced at $1,500, the Prima 125 is fast, fun, and stable—a rare trio in recreational kayaking.

2. iSUP Isle Switch Pro
A SUP-kayak hybrid, this $1,300 rig is lightweight, versatile, and comes with all the gear you need to switch between modes.

3. Sea Eagle EZLITE 10
You get a drop-stitched inflatable with hard shell performance. It has excellent tracking thanks to its V-shaped hull. The Sea Eagle EZLITE retails for $900 USD.

Honorable Mentions: Unique Standouts

Swell Scupper 14: A rare fast, sit-on-top kayak that offers exceptional paddling performance.
Hurricane Osprey 120: Thermoformed construction provides a lightweight, sleek ride.
NRS Neutron Packraft: At just 12 lbs, this $1,200 packraft handles up to Class III whitewater.

Whether you’re after portability, performance, or the perfect first boat, there’s a kayak out there for you. Once you’ve found it, the real adventure begins on the water. If you need tips on what to wear and bring for any conditions, read Warm and Cold Water Kayaking Gear.

The post Best Kayaks of 2025 appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Specs and Features

The Storm 17 retails for around $2,300. It’s 17 feet long, 24 inches wide, weighs 59 pounds (27 kg), and has a carrying capacity of 348 pounds (160 kg). It comes equipped with a rudder, Boreal’s Flex 4 seat system, two bulkheads, three hatches (stern, bow, and a day hatch), perimeter lines, and plenty of bungees.

Boreal has also added self-rescue safety straps behind the seat. These are a welcome feature. On paper, it’s an attractive all-around touring kayak. But how does it hold up on the water?

Portability

The Boreal Designs Storm 17 earns its “Ultralight” label because it’s thermoformed, not rotomolded. That makes it about 15–20% lighter than your average rotomolded sea kayak of the same size. At 59 pounds, it’s noticeably easier to carry solo or load onto a car rack than the typical 70-pound alternative.

While it’s not as featherlight as a composite kayak—some of which dip into the low 40-pound range—it’s far more affordable. You’re looking at a fraction of the price compared to high-end composite boats, which can easily cost twice or three times as much.

Stability and Performance

With its 24-inch width, the Storm 17 hits a sweet spot between stability and speed. I found it to be a balanced, all-conditions kayak. On windy open crossings with the boat fully loaded, with an extra 45 pounds of camera gear, it still tracked and cruised nicely, while feeling stable and confidence inspiring.

Maneuverability, however, isn’t its strong suit. This isn’t a quick-turning playboat, and that’s okay, because lightweight thermoformed kayaks aren’t designed to play hard and potentially take beatings in the surf zone or rocky shallows. On Georgian Bay’s granite shores, I found myself babying it a bit more than I would a rotomolded boat. But for general touring, it proved its durability while delivering reliable performance.

Comfort

On multi-hour days, comfort is critical. The Flex 4 seat system is solid and supportive, and I was happy with it for the first couple of hours each day. Around hour three, though, I found myself wishing for a bit more padding. That’s not unusual for sea kayaks, and it’s something most paddlers can easily remedy with aftermarket padding or small adjustments.

Where I did feel some compromise was in outfitting. The Storm 17 doesn’t come with thigh hooks or hip pads. While this doesn’t affect casual touring, it does reduce the “connected” feel you get with more performance-focused sea kayaks. In rough water, I felt more like I was sitting in the kayak rather than wearing it. Still, for most touring scenarios, the comfort and fit were more than adequate.

Storage and Features

This boat shines when it comes to storage. Between the bow, stern, and day hatch, plus extra space in front of the foot bulkhead and behind the seat, there’s ample room for multi-day expeditions. I carried more than enough gear for five days, with space to spare. The deck rigging and perimeter lines add versatility, allowing you to lash down extra items like pumps or camera gear.

The rudder system worked well throughout the trip. I’m typically more of a skeg user, but I found the toe-control rudder intuitive and effective, especially when battling crosswinds.

Who It’s For & Value

The Storm 17 Ultralight is best suited for paddlers who want a lighter sea kayak without paying composite prices. Beginners through advanced paddlers can enjoy it, depending on the type of trips they plan. It’s not the most playful kayak, but it excels as a versatile touring boat for flatwater and multi-day adventures.

At $2,300, I think the value is excellent. You’re not paying a major premium for the lighter weight, yet you’re saving yourself a lot of strain moving the boat around off the water. The trade-off is durability—you’ll need to treat it with a bit more care than a heavier rotomolded kayak.

Boreal Designs Storm 17 Touring Kayak

After five days on Georgian Bay, the Boreal Designs Storm 17 proved itself to be a reliable, capable, and comfortable touring companion. It offered plenty of storage, handled rough and calm conditions alike, and saved me from lugging around unnecessary extra weight. For paddlers who value a lighter boat and plan to use it for touring rather than hard play, it’s an excellent option.

Is it the right kayak for you? That depends on your priorities. But if you’re looking for a versatile, lightweight touring kayak at a reasonable price point, the Storm 17 deserves serious consideration.

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Special Thanks

Destination Ontario https://www.destinationontario.com  

The Seven https://www.northeasternontario.com

Explorer's Edge http://explorersedge.ca

Ontario Creates, Boreal Design Kayaks, NRS, Aqua Bound, Killarney Outfitters, Destination Ontario

The post Boreal Designs Storm 17 Ultralight Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

This is the fourth model in the Volan series from P&H, built specifically with larger paddlers in mind. At 16'2″ long and 23.5″ wide, it’s roomy, sleek, and built for versatility. With a retail price starting around $5,600, the P&H Volan 162 Kayak isn't cheap. But it provides concrete proof that you often get what you pay for!

A Custom, Carbon/Kevlar, Composite Kayak

One of the unique things about P&H Composite sea kayaks is that you have the option to get a fully customized model. What does it mean to customize a kayak? It means you can choose almost everything about the kayak, including the color of its hull, deck, seam, keel, cockpit rim, perimeter lines, bungees, and even the color of the P&H logo on the deck. You get to choose the seat style, whether it has a rudder or a skeg, and perhaps most importantly you get to choose the layup of the kayak. The layup of a kayak refers to what materials are used (like Carbon and Kevlar), and how much of those materials are used. The result has an impact on the kayaks weight, durability and price.

This was the first time that I've ever customized a kayak. I have to admit that it was really fun to use P&H's online kayak customization tool to design my dream kayak. After playing around with colors for an hour or so, I finally settled on a colorway. The layup didn't take much thought, because my plan was to take this kayak on an epic, 10-day adventure on Lake Superior. I needed a kayak that could handle anything that Mother Nature threw at me. This meant the ‘Expedition' layup was right for me.

Lightweight and Durable: A Kayak Built for Real Adventures

The Expedition layup that I choose strikes a sweet balance between durability and lightweight. More specifically, the kayak weighs around 50 lbs—surprisingly light for its size and a blessing when transporting it solo. For comparison, a plastic kayak of this size will usually weigh 65–70 lbs. While the kayak is light in weight, it's not light on durability. The boat is made with kevlar/carbon, and features a reinforced kevlar keel and reinforced glass seam. The result is a boat that's built to handle serious conditions and the most challenging expeditions.

On-Water Performance: Maneuverable and Stable

What makes the Volan series of kayaks one of P&H's most popular kayaks is the fact that it's so versatile. It has the speed to cover large distances, and the playfulness to take advantage of any surf waves, current or rough conditions that you encounter along the way. While it's not the fastest sea kayak on the market, it's fast enough. More importantly though, the Volan 162 feels balanced, stable, and confidence-inspiring.

Comfort and Fit for Larger Paddlers

At 6’2”, I’ve struggled to find composite kayaks that offer a high level of comfort, and that was the idea behind the Volan 162. The largest of the 4 Volan models, the 162 was designed to offer taller and larger paddlers with ample leg room and foot room. That's exactly what it does. The cockpit is spacious without feeling loose. The outfitting—from padded hip supports to the adjustable back band—delivers both comfort and control. It’s rare to find a kayak that caters so well to taller or bigger paddlers. The P&H Volan 162 Kayak does exactly that.

Is the P&H Volan 162 Sea Kayak Worth It?

If you’re a paddler who wants a luxury, all-around kayak that can handle anything from casual day trips to challenging multi-day expeditions—the P&H Volan 162 Sea Kayak is a worthy investment. It's beautiful, it's built extremely well, it's comfortable, stable and fun to paddle. It's also customizable if you have the patience to wait a couple of month to get yours. In my opinion, the Volan 162 is definitely worth the price, but it's not going to be worth it for everyone.

Curious about how other P&H models compare? Check out my reviews of the Volan 160, the Scorpio Sea Kayak, the Virgo and the Leo.

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This wasn’t my first time paddling the Virgo—I’ve actually reviewed it before—but this was my first time with the new Kevlar carbon layup version, which is a mere 36 lbs (16.5kg) of pure paddling beauty.

First Impressions: The Virgo Composite Kayak

The first thing you notice about the Virgo Composite Kayak is its weight—or rather, the lack of it. Weighing in at around 36 lbs (16.5kg), this kayak is not only easy to transport but is also stunning to look at. The Kevlar carbon layup is truly a work of art, combining aesthetics with high performance. However, the real test lay ahead: navigating the rapids of the Ottawa River.

Testing the P&H Virgo Composite Kayak

McCoy's Rapid is the first challenge on the Ottawa River and one of the biggest ones. This rapid is known for its massive hydraulics, with two particularly juicy holes named Satlers and Phils at the top. Dropping into either of these in a sea kayak would mean trouble.

Threading the needle between the two holes was a great test of the kayak’s agility and responsivenesss, and it passed with flying colors.

After the thrill of McCoy’s, the Middle Channel of the Ottawa River offers a slightly tamer, but still exhilarating, experience. The Middle Channel receives only a quarter of the river’s water, making the rapids slightly smaller, but no less fun. The Virgo continued to impress with its ability to handle the unpredictable conditions of the river.

Butterfly is one of the highlight rapids on the Middle Channel – short and sweet!

Surfing the wave at the top of Upper No Name rapid – one of the smoothest and sweetest waves on the Middle Channel.

While the Virgo Composite Kayak handled the whitewater admirably, it’s not something I would recommend others try. Running these kinds of rapids in a lightweight composite sea kayak is always a roll of the dice. In fact, I had to send the kayak for repairs as the stern of the boat hit rock forcefully as I worked my way through the challenging ‘Lower No Name' rapid. Can you tell where in the rapid it happened in this video: Cracking the Virgo

Testing the Aqua Bound Aerial Paddle and Gearlab Outdoors Deck Pod Pro

Besides the Virgo, I also took the opportunity to test some other new gear. The Aqua Bound Aerial Whitewater Paddle has been a trusty companion over the past month, and it didn't disappoint on this trip. Powerful and confidence inspiring, it helped make each stroke count.

Another piece of gear that caught my attention was the Gearlab Outdoors Deck Pod Pro. This deck bag, designed for recreational kayaks, touring kayaks, or sea kayaks, comes equipped with an integrated GoPro mount, making it easy to capture your paddling adventures.

In conclusion, the P&H Virgo Composite Kayak is a great kayak that blends performance and beauty. While it may not be designed for whitewater, its responsiveness in the rapids is a testament to its design. It's a versatile and playful kayak designed for day trip adventures, or short overnight trips on rivers, lakes or the ocean.

Watch the in depth review of the Virgo (plastic version) here

Watch the full video on YouTube:

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P&H Scorpio Sea Kayak Review: Specifications

The Scorpio is one of P&H’s original kayaks and has been one of the mainstays of the P&H line. In 2015 it was updated fully. The Scorpio was designed for open water conditions but is equally suited for use on day trips. The Scorpio is available in three sizes: Low Volume (LV), Mid Volume (MV), and High Volume (HV), which is the size I used.

Price: $2600 (USD)
Width: 24” 
Length: 17’ 7”
Weight: 68 LBS (31 Kg)
Capacity: 300 LBS (135 Kg)

The P&H Scorpio has:

• Full deck lines and bungees around the boat,
• It comes with a skeg or a skudder,
• It has four hatches: a bow hatch, a stern hatch, a mini hatch in front of the cockpit, and a day hatch behind the cockpit,
• It has grab loops at each end,
• It uses P&H outfitting, something they are well known for. In the Scorpio, this includes:
  A padded seat,
  Hip pads, 
  A fully adjustable backband,
  Foot braces that are quick and easy to adjust.

The kayak comes in two different types of construction. I have the Core Lite X construction which is a little lighter and stiffer. 

Portability

The P&H Scorpio is a 17-foot and 7-inch-long sea kayak, so it would be an overstretch to say that it is easy to get around or highly portable. Any long boat is a bit of a pain to get around. Despite that, the Core Lite X construction of the Scorpio is 68 pounds, which is not heavy for a long, rotamolded kayak. However, that doesn’t change the fact that the Scorpio is not an easy boat to get around. 

It is a kayak that I can get around by carrying it on my shoulder. I would not want to do so for long distances, but I can at least move it around without help. I can load the Scorpio onto my truck by myself, however, for some people, lifting it onto a car might be a two-person job. The reality of owning a rotamolded and plastic sea kayak of any length is that it will not be very portable.

If weight is a real issue for you, then you probably should be looking into purchasing a kayak produced differently. For example, a thermoformed kayak (a plastic kayak that is lighter but less durable) or a composite kayak (such as a carbon kevlar kayak) might suit you better. The Scorpio does not come in a composite form. If you want a composite sea kayak kayak, P&H have many other composite kayaks available. An example of a P&H composite kayak is the P&H Volan 160. 

Performance

The Scorpio is a 24-inch wide and 17-foot 7-inch long sea kayak designed for speed. The narrower a kayak is, the faster it is. So, while narrower sea kayaks are available, the Scorpio does perform very well. 

The other factor that affects speed is the amount of rocker a kayak has. Rocker is the curvature of the kayak when you look at it from the side. The Scorpio looks quite straight but does have a decent amount of rocker. The rocker allows it to turn quite efficiently despite its length. In fact, the Scorpio turns surprisingly well. It gives the kayak more maneuverability, which is great for kayaking in rougher conditions. Increased maneuverability makes the Scorpio a great expedition kayak for all conditions. 

The P&H Scorpio does a great job at balancing speed and maneuverability. 

Stability 

At 24 inches wide, the P&H Scorpio is not a very wide kayak. It is, however, a very reasonable width to maintain good stability. It does not feel as rock-solid as a 30-inch recreational kayak would. However, as soon as you take the kayak on edge, it almost feels as if you are denied from tipping it over. 

The Scorpio has excellent secondary stability – the stability you have while sitting on an edge. Secondary stability is important for more experienced kayakers paddling in rougher waters. It allows you to hold the kayak on edge while dealing with the waves or turning. 

The Scorpio holds an edge beautifully but also gives a beginner kayak the feeling of confidence that the kayak doesn’t want to flip over. It has a wonderful combination of stability and performance. 

Comfort

I am six foot two and 195 pounds in peak paddling season, but the high-volume version of the kayak still gives me plenty of space in the cockpit. It is unreasonable to expect all paddlers to jump into the same kayak and feel comfortable in it, which is why I love that the P&H Scorpio sea kayak comes in three sizes. Having three different sizes is a great way to make the kayak more accessible to a range of people.

The high-volume kayak is the right size kayak for me. There is plenty of space in the cockpit but I do not feel like I am swimming around in it. I could spend a whole day in this touring kayak and would be fine. 

The Seat

Although not super padded, the padded seat adds a higher level of comfort that goes beyond the typical plastic seat found in a sea kayak. The hip pads give you great control for edging the kayak and are very easy to adjust. The back band is not too low. It does not impede you from putting the paddling skirt on the cockpit, but it is high enough to give your back real support. The thigh hooks are aggressive enough that the kayak is incredibly easy to control without making you feel confined. 

Foot Pegs

Of course, the Scorpio also has foot pegs that are easy to adjust from in the kayak, making them very convenient. I hate foot pegs that require you to get out and reach into the kayak to adjust them. Even though I am fairly tall, there was plenty of space for my feet. With my setup, the foot pegs were not even close to being set at the full length, meaning the boat could be comfortable for somebody up to about six foot six or seven. There is not just plenty of leg space, but there is also plenty of room for my feet. They did not feel squashed at all. 

Features

Thoughts about the features of a kayak always come down to personal preference, but here are my thoughts. 

Skegs

The Scorpio has a drop-down skeg on it. The main difference between a rudder and a skeg is that skegs drop right down to help the kayak track forward, while rudders turn right and left to help you steer. 

P&H makes something called a skudder. The skudder works like both a rudder and skeg. It drops down and can be used to steer. The skudder, however, is not an option on the P&H Scorpio. I am not a big fan of a rudder, so I have not yet found a skudder to test. 

What I can say about the P&H skeg is that it is a very slick and easy system to use. The skeg is very easy to deploy and lift back up. Of course, like with any skeg, it can get rocks jammed inside the skeg and skeg box. However, the P&H skeg system is much better than the rope and cleat system that several other kayaks use. 

Hatches

The Scorpio has rubber hatch covers. Some people hate these covers, while others love them. I find that it takes a bit more effort to use them compared to using a more traditional latched system. The covers are a little more finicky to put back on. 

That said, you quickly learn how to put them on, and, more importantly, they provide a tight seal on the hatch. In fact, they are very comparable to paddling skirts. Some people complain that some skirts are too hard to put on, but typically, the harder the skirt is to put on, the better the seal it provides. If you are going into rougher waters or on a long expedition, a tighter seal provides extra security, which can be essential. I will say that this type of hatch cover has grown on me. 

The Mini Hatch

The P&H Scorpio has four hatches, including a mini hatch in front of the seat. I like the mini hatch because it is the right size to fit snacks, phones, and even suncream. It is a good place to store things if you don’t like it when all the pockets in your life jacket are full. 

The Day Hatch

The hatch that I have never been a fan of but is an option on many different kayaks is the day hatch right behind the seat. For me, it is a small hole that takes a good chunk of space but has limited things that can go into it. I prefer having one big hatch that takes up all the space at the back of the kayak. A bigger stern hatch gives me more space for the big items necessary on multi-day trips. I am not typically a minimalist on multi-day kayak trips and I like to have plenty of extra pieces of gear. A bigger stern hatch helps me fit more gear into the kayak. 

The Bow Hatch

Many sea kayaks feature a bow hatch that is not as big as the stern hatch. I am sure there is some reason why the hatch is smaller, perhaps because the bow is narrower, however, this small hatch means that you have to pack smaller dry bags. Some items simply won’t fit in the bow hatch. In an ideal world, I would love to have a slightly bigger bow hatch just to make it easier to get my bigger camping gear in the bow. 

Who is the P&H Scorpio sea kayak for?

I agree with P&H Kayaks that the Scorpio is an expedition machine. The Scorpio has so many plus points; it is 17 feet 7 inches long with lots of space for camping gear (even if the gear needs to be packed strategically) and sitting comfortably in the kayak. It also has a brilliant combination of speed and maneuverability, perfect to tackle any conditions. In general, a plastic boat such as the Scorpio is durable, so you do not need to worry about it banging on rocks. It can really take a kicking. 

The P&H Scorpio is a great kayak to have, especially if you are limited to having only one kayak. It can do it all. 

The price tag of $2600 (USD) is not cheap. However, this is the amount you would expect to pay for a high-quality sea kayak. Is it the cheapest sea kayak of this nature that you can find on the market? No, it is not. You might even pay a small premium for the little features, such as the Core Lite X editions and the skeg system. But this is because the Scorpio is a well-built boat. 

I have been a fan of P&H kayaks since I first tested the Virgo three years ago because I realized that P&H kayaks are well-built. They are top-of-the-class sea kayaks. So you might pay a little premium. However, given that $2600 (USD) is about the ballpark figure for a top-quality sea kayak, it is not much of a premium. The only thing I can say about value is that although you can find cheaper sea kayaks if the P&H Scorpio is in your budget, you should certainly choose this kayak. 

Kayak: P&H Scorpio
Paddles: Aqua Bound Manta Ray
PFD:  NRS Zen PFD
Clothing: NRS Axiom Dry Suit

The post P&H Scorpio Sea Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Special thanks to PaddleWays for their support and for providing excellent resources for paddlers. Check out their app to help locate and plan for your next river adventure.

Why Choosing the Right Kayak Matters

Selecting the wrong kayak can lead to unsafe, uncomfortable, or just plain unfun experiences on the water. The right kayak, however, can open up a world of enjoyable paddling adventures. So, let’s break down the key factors you need to consider.

Types of Kayaks

First, let’s look at the various types of kayaks available:

Sit-on-top Kayaks

Great for stability and ease of re-entry. Ideal for warm climates and calm waters. Check out the Perception Hangtime 11 Review.

Sit-inside Kayaks

Better for colder environments and rougher waters, offering more control and protection from the elements. Check out the Advanced Elements Expedition Elite Kayak Review.

Recreational Kayaks

Best for casual paddling on flat water. Check out the Native Watercraft Falcon 11 Kayak review.

Touring/Sea Kayaks

Designed for longer distances and open water. Read this article about sea kayaking in Ireland using the P&H Scorpio sea kayak.

Whitewater Kayaks

Built for navigating rapids or having fun. Check out the review of the Jackson Kayak Rockstar V.

Portable Kayaks

Includes folding, inflatable, and modular kayaks, perfect for those with limited storage or transportation options. Check out the review of the Pakayak Bluefin 142.

Fishing Kayaks

Equipped with features specific to angling. Check out this review of the Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack Fishing Kayak.

Tandem Kayaks

For paddling with a partner. Check out these Tandem Kayak Tips to stay together in the same boat!

Pedal Kayaks

Allow for hands-free movement, popular among anglers and photographers. Check out the review of the Perception Showdown 11.5 pedal fishing kayak.

Composite and Plastic Kayaks

Varying in weight, durability, and cost. Check out the P&H Volan 160 review, this sea kayak is make with carbon and kevlar.

Key Considerations

• Type of Paddling
  The first question to ask yourself is what type of paddling you plan to do. For flat water like ponds or small lakes, any kayak will suffice. However, if you plan to paddle in more challenging conditions like rivers with currents or open water with waves, you’ll need a kayak suited to those environments.
• Water Conditions
  For use on flat water, any kayak will do. If you're paddling in water that is rough, or can get rough if the wind picks up, you need a kayak that can handle rough water. Sit-on-top kayaks are excellent for mild rough water since they can’t swamp, and if flipped, are easy to re-enter. Sit-inside kayaks need to be able to accept a skirt and they need to have bulkheads to handle rougher waters and provide safety and stability. Bulkheads are walls inside the kayak that separate the boat into separate compartments, so that the entire kayak won't get swamped with water in the case of a capsize.
• Portability
  If storage and transport are issues, a portable kayak might be for you. These come in several forms, including inflatables and folding kayaks, which are great for travel but may sacrifice some performance and durability.
• Material and Weight
  The material of the kayak affects both weight and durability. Plastic kayaks, especially rotomolded ones, are incredibly durable but heavier. Thermoformed plastic kayaks are lighter and stiffer but less durable. Composite kayaks, like those made from fiberglass, kevlar, and carbon fiber, offer the best performance and the lightest weight options, but at a higher cost. They also need to be treated with more care than rotomolded plastic kayaks.

Kayak Preferences:

Stability vs. Speed

• Length: Longer kayaks are faster, while shorter ones are more maneuverable.
• Width: Wider kayaks are more stable but slower.
• Rocker: More rocker means better maneuverability, less rocker means better tracking.
• Hull Design: Impacts both stability and speed, with different designs better suited for different paddling styles.

Sit-on-Top vs. Sit-Inside Kayaks

• Sit-on-Top: More stable and accessible, but slower and you’ll likely get wet.
• Sit-Inside: Faster and better control, offers protection from the elements, but harder to re-enter if flipped.

Tandem vs. Single Kayaks

• Tandem Kayaks: Faster with two paddlers and great for shared experiences, but less maneuverable and you need to coordinate well with your partner.
• Single Kayaks: Offer more freedom and maneuverability, perfect for solo adventures.

Pedal vs. Paddle Kayaks

• Pedal Kayaks: Faster and hands-free, great for fishing and photography, but pricier, heavier, and not suitable for very shallow waters.
• Paddle Kayaks: More traditional and versatile, lighter, and less expensive.

Additional Considerations

Think about whether you plan to go camping, bring your dog, or need extra storage space. Hybrid boats like packboats and packrafts offer unique benefits for specific needs, blending features of kayaks, canoes, and rafts.

Final Advice

Visit a specialty paddle sports retailer to ask questions and test out kayaks. Your perfect kayak awaits, and getting it right will ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable paddling experience.

Special thanks to PaddleWays for their support and for providing excellent resources for paddlers. Check out their app to help locate and plan for your next river adventure.

Stay tuned for more paddling tips, gear reviews, and adventures. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out on any future content.

Happy paddling!

Ken Whiting

For more about my paddling adventures and tips, visit my blog articles on Hazeadventure, watch me on Facing Waves TV episodes, or subscribe to my YouTube Channel PaddleTV.

The post Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kayak appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Oru Kayak Coast XT Sea Kayak Specifications

• Price: $2000 (USD)
• Length: 16’ 2”
• Width: 25”
• Weight: 32 LBS (14.5 kg)
• Capacity: 400 LBS (181kg)
• Best Use: Open water sea kayaking

Assembling the Coast XT Sea Kayak

Oru Kayak claims that it takes 10 to 15 minutes to put the Coast XT together. It took me about 30 minutes to put it together the first time, but this is because a new boat is a lot stiffer, and I had to consult the instructions multiple times, all of which slowed down the process. I do not doubt that it will take 10-15 minutes after the first couple of times. 

The Oru Kayak Coast XT comes with the standard Oru Kayak seat, which was not very comfortable when I tested it in the Oru Kayak Inlet. This time, I upgraded to the Oru Kayak gel seat. This seat does raise the center of gravity a little, so you exchange a little stability for extra comfort, but the trade off is minimal and worth it in my opinion! 

The Coast XT also comes with optional thigh hooks. These must be cut out and attached before the kayak gets assembled (something I learned a little too late in the testing process). Thigh hooks upgrade a kayak because they give you extra control when paddling in rough water or rolling the kayak. 

Portability

At only 32 LBS, the Coast XT is a highly portable and lightweight kayak. It is lighter than the lightest layup of a Kevlar kayak and folds down into a tiny package. Both the light weight and small size make it extremely easy to carry. However, due to the way in which the Coast XT packs down, you will need an extra bag if you want to fly with it. Overall, the Coast XT gets top marks for portability.

Performance

The Coast XT performs similarly to a hard shell, 16-foot touring kayak. It carries good speed, tracks well, edges comfortably, and turns smoothly. I was impressed. Does it perform just as well as a similar-style hard shell touring kayak? Close, but not quite. Due to its portable nature, Oru Kayak had less flexibility with the kayak's design. As a result, the Coast XT is slightly slower than similar, hard shell touring kayaks.

Stability

The Coast XT is 25 inches wide, whereas many similar sea kayaks are 22 to 23 inches wide. What does that mean? The narrower a kayak is, the faster it will travel. But, the narrower a kayak is, the less stable it will be. That being said, the Coast XT has the stability you would expect from a 25-inch wide touring kayak. It is very stable, both when you are sitting centered in the kayak and when you put it on edge. And so, overall the Coast XT gets high marks for stability. 

Comfort

As a general rule, you give up some comfort for the portable nature of a kayak. That is the case for the Coast XT, although the gel seat upgrade made a big difference. After an hour and a half on the water, my butt was still comfortable. That being said, the seat doesn't provide any under-leg support or knee support. This means your legs get a little tired after extended periods in the boat. The Coast XT also lacks the foot braces that are standard in hard shell kayaks. It has a foot bar instead, which does the job, but isn't quite as comfortable as full foot braces. Overall, even though you do give up a little comfort with the Coast XT, I don't have any major complaints.

Value

The Coast XT retails for $2000 (USD), which is a fairly standard price for a quality touring kayak, and in line with my expectations for the Coast XT.

One of the big questions regarding value is whether the kayak is durable. Short-term durability is something I was able to test because I tried the Coast XT in icey conditions. There were some big chunks of hard ice floating around, and even though I was bumping the ice, the Coast XT held up very well. I was not concerned about the integrity of the kayak when bouncing around the ice. 

Over time, I might be worried about the edges because the Coast XT is made from a very light material. As a result, I would take care of the kayak, and avoid dragging it. Oru Kayak states that the kayak lasts about 10,000 folds, which I'm not going to test, but I am curious about other people’s experience with the long-term durability of the Coast XT.

Who is The Oru Kayak Coast XT Sea Kayak for?

You do not need paddling experience to enjoy the Coast XT because, because at 25 inches wide, this kayak is very stable. A new paddler could hop into the Coast XT and have a great time. However, there's no doubt that it is less stable than typical recreational kayaks. 

It has a small cockpit meaning that you can use a skirt. This allows you to paddle in open water that is exposed to wind and waves. On the flip side, the small cockpit will feel confining to some people.

Oru Kayak says the Coast XT is suitable for open water, heavy surf, and almost all heavy conditions. Personally, I wouldn't have the confidence to take the Coast XT into really rough conditions. This is partially because the combing on the cockpit makes it hard to get a good seal with my kayak skirt, so I would be afraid that rough conditions could make my skirt pop off. But, I would definitely be confident taking the Coast XT into moderately rough conditions.  It should be noted that if you do take the boat into open water or rough water, you should be using float bags in the kayak. This helps the kayak float in the event of a capsize, and makes a swamped kayak much easier to deal with.

Oru Kayak Coast XT Sea Kayak Review: Conclusions!

I really enjoyed paddling the Oru Kayak Coast XT. It is a fun boat to paddle, which for me is a big part of the test. It is fast, stable, and reasonably comfortable. While time will only tell how durable the kayak is, I can confidently say that the boat offers good value. Is it the right kayak for you? If you're looking for a quality touring kayak that is highly portable, easy to store, and usable in moderately rough conditions, then it might be exactly the kayak that you're looking for.

Kayak: Oru Kayaks Coast XT
Paddles: Aqua Bound Manta Ray
PFD:  NRS Zen PFD
Clothing: NRS Axiom Dry Suit

My Video Review

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I did a full review of the Volan here: P&H Volan 160 Kayak Review.

The Big Wave Test for the Volan 160

To test how well the P&H Sea Kayaks Volan 160 performs in big water, I took it down the main channel of the Ottawa River. This paddling mission involves a series of rapids: 

• McCoys. This rapid has a couple of big holes that you want to miss. 
• Lorne. Lorne starts with a big wave known as Garburator and has a range of standing waves, ending with the Waikiki waves.

• The Lunch Stop waves. 
• Normans. Normans is one of the bigger rapids on the Ottawa main channel. All the water is funneled into a mini, low-walled canyon with offset compression waves of a good size. 
• Coliseum. The Coliseum has the largest waves on the river and two major holes. It is chaotic with waves, boils, and whirlpools. 

These rapids provide a fun and interesting set of challenges for the P&H Volan 160. Taking the P&H Volan here lets us see how it actually performs in big waves and rough water. It might not be the sea, but these rapids have plenty of waves to test the kayak on!

Paddling a Sea Kayak on Rapids

Sea kayaks, such as the P&H Volan 160, are not designed for use in rapids. When paddling rapids in a sea kayak, you cannot easily correct your line. Once you have set up, that is where you are going! You have to stick with the line you’ve chosen. With even the slightest wrong angle, a sea kayak can spin and be difficult to get back on course. So you have got to set up your line well. This makes taking a sea kayak down rapids a little trickier, but it also makes it so much fun. It can be much more like rafting than whitewater kayaking at times. 

A Side Note on Paddles

One major learning experience that came when paddling the Lorne rapids was actually with the paddle. After hitting one of the big waves, I did a brace stroke and caught the versalock lever of my telescoping paddles, on my skirt. Because of this, all of a sudden my blades were rotating. Both halves of my paddle were loosely connected, with one half in each hand. This is not exactly what you want in the middle of a rapid! 

To solve the problem, I stabilized myself, squared the paddle off to zero, and snapped the clip shut again. But, in the future, when kayaking in big waves and rapids, I will either stick to using a fixed paddle or tape the lever down so it cannot inadvertently pop! 

How Did the P&H Volan Sea Kayak Perform in Big Waves?

Despite not being designed for running rapids, the P&H Volan Sea Kayak 160 took me safely and successfully down the rapids on the Ottawa main channel. The boat took me down more than just successfully, it was also fun. I had a good time! 

The Volan 160 performed exactly as I expected it to. It is a sea kayak so it is not designed to handle all the different currents you get in rapids. It is not supposed to handle like a whitewater kayak, and, unsurprisingly, it doesn’t. 

That said, it is a very maneuverable sea kayak. It has enough rocker to be able to deal with big waves and use the waves to turn. More generally the rocker helps it turn well. 

For the mile or so of flat water between the rapids, I was able to drop the skeg and paddle. The skeg helps the P&H Volan track very well. It tracks like an arrow. 

What Improvements Could There Be on the P&H Volan 160?

One big takeaway from this trip is the outfitting of the boat. The Volan 160 does not have aggressive thigh hooks. There is enough support there for my knees to be able to edge or even roll the kayak. It provides enough to allow you to handle the kayak as needed. However, it could provide more support, allowing for better leg control and making the kayak more comfortable. 

To solve these issues I can contour foam around the knees, giving my leg more to grab onto. For me, it is worth doing this as I intend to carry on using the P&H Volan 160 to run more rapids like these. However, for most people using this boat, people who will not be running big rapids, it is not worth the effort.  

All in all, this was a very enjoyable trip that allowed me to test the P&H Volan Sea Kayak 160 out in big waves. And that test was very successful! Read more about the P&H Volan and the other Best Kayaks and Canoes of 2023.

Kayak: P&H Volan 160
Paddles:  Aqua Bound Manta Ray Hybrid
PFD:  NRS Zen PFD
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt

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Melker Kayaks

One of the central missions of Melker is to redefine the manufacturing process in the paddling industry. Ultimately they want to make it completely sustainable. The founder is an engineer from the tech world who wants to bring sustainable ideas to the world of paddle sports. 

As part of this, all Melker kayaks use locally sourced flaxweed instead of the standard composites, carbon kevlar, and carbon fiber. Flaxweed is more environmentally friendly and gives the kayak a beautiful wood-like finish. The Melker Uvlon, like all Melker kayaks, is visually stunning. But the real question is, how does it paddle?

Melker Ulvon HV Specifications

Price: $3900 (USD)
Length: 17’ 5”
Width: 21”
Weight: 54 LBS (24.5kg)
Capacity: 165-240 LBS
Best use: Touring

Features of the Melker Uvlon

The Melker Uvlon is a long, narrow sea kayak designed for speed. It has no rocker. It has plenty of volume at the front – although there is no upturned front to help with waves. In general, it has volume. With a capacity of up to 240 LBS, you can take the Uvlon on a real touring trip. 

The Uvlon does not have thigh hooks meaning it isn't designed to use in rough water, rapids, surfing, or rock gardens. It is designed to cover long distances. The benefit of not having thigh hooks is that people who aren’t as comfortable feeling enclosed in a kayak will feel more secure. 

The Uvlon is still rollable. The contour of the deck allows you to grip it with your knees and roll it. It also comes with pads that you can place in the kayak to make it easier to roll. 

Another neat feature of the Melker Uvlon is that it comes with both a rudder and a skeg. You do not need to choose. I don’t typically use rudders as I can maneuver easily without them, but the Skeg is a great addition. With the slight breeze on the Ottowa River, the skeg was helpful to keep my kayak on course. Typically I would choose a skeg but getting the option to use both is fantastic. 

Comfort

After about two and a half hours, I needed to take a little break from kayaking to stretch my legs. The seat is basic but is surprisingly comfortable for what it is. That said, it doesn’t have a lot of padding so my butt needed a little break at some points. Luckily I had to scramble over several obstacles so I got plenty of chances to stretch. 

A Note on Greenland Paddles

For this adventure, as the plan was to cover the distance, I used my Greenland paddles. These are incredibly lightweight and suitable for covering large distances. They took some getting used to when I first started using them as the blades are so small. I constantly had to think about the angle I used to pull them through the water. But nowadays, it feels more natural. 

The Greenland paddle takes more time to get comfortable with than a typical paddle. So if you don’t have the patience to get used to it, it might be a frustrating paddle experience. If you go for a Greenland paddle, you should prepare to spend some time figuring it out and getting to know it. It isn’t as intuitive as a standard paddle. 

All in All 

I didn’t test the Melker Uvlon in rough water, but I did try it in rough conditions. I dragged it over five beaver dams and gave it its first scratches. But, as I always say, a boat without scratches is a boat without experience. And my Melker Uvlon certainly has experience now. Throughout the entire adventure, it was a fun boat to paddle and easy to portage. It really is a beautiful kayak. 

Be sure to have a look at the other Melker review I've done: Melker Rödlöga Review, an Environmentally Friendly Kayak

Kayak: Melker Ulvon
Paddles:  Gearlab Outdoors Greenland Ipik
PFD:   NRS OSO Lifejacket
Storage: Gearlab Outdoors Deck Pod 2
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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Delta Kayak 15.5 GT Specifications

Price: $2350 (USD)
Length: 15’ 5”
Width: 24”
Weight: 49 LBS (22 KG)
Capacity: 400 LBS (181 KG)
Best Use: All conditions touring

How Delta Kayaks Make the 15.5 GT

There are three methods used to make kayaks: 

• Composite kayaks. These are carbon kevlar or flaxweed. These are very lightweight, high-performance, and expensive.
• Rotomolded kayaks are the other end of the spectrum. To make these, they pour plastic into a mold, heat it, and spin it until the plastic coats the inside of the mold. Next, they pop the mold and, voila, you have a kayak. These kayaks are extremely durable. You can bounce them about on rocks and get nothing more than a few scratches. 
• The middle ground method is thermoformed kayaks. The Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is a thermoformed kayak. To make a thermoformed kayak, they mold the top and the bottom of the kayak separately and then weld them together. Because of this, the plastic is much thinner, stiffer, and harder. Thermoform kayaks are higher performing and lighter than rotomolded kayaks but are less durable and can crack more easily.

Comfort

The seat system in the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is very comfortable. Even after two hours of kayaking, I was still completely comfortable. The back band is adjustable, so I could set it up to provide excellent lower back support. The back band is easy to adjust while in the kayak. It locks it into place using the cleat system in the front of the cockpit. 

There are no hip pads which could be a helpful addition. But the foot peg system is great and feels solid to push on. 

The standard Delta Kayak 15.5 GT comes with a skeg but the version I tested had a rudder. I did not use this in the shallower, quicker water where I tested the kayak, but it would be great for wide, open water. 

Overall, the Delta 15.5 GT is a very comfortable boat with plenty of foot room. Even as someone tall, I have plenty of room. That suggests this kayak would still be comfortable for bigger people than me. You could be any size up to 6’ 5” or a 36” inseam before you max the kayak out. 

Stability

At 24” wide, the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is not designed for stability, but it is still an incredibly stable kayak. It is easy to get in and out of and has excellent secondary stability when you hold it on edge. It is solid and unlikely to flip.

Value

The Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is the first Delta kayak that I have been able to try and I am impressed with it. While it is not a cheap kayak, it is not extremely expensive for a kayak of this sort. Comparably composite kayaks of a similar nature can cost anything between $3000-6000 (USD). So for what it is, $2350 (USD) is not an unreasonable price. 

As a kayak, it has nice finishings and seems like a well-thought-out boat. It has certain features, including the build, that really stand out as high quality. 

One of these is the hatch system. It has a huge day hatch in the front which has plenty of space to store useful items. I love having an easy-to-access hatch, but hate when the hatch is too small to store much. On the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT, the day hatch is easy to access and a great size. As with all touring kayaks, this hatch is water resistant, not waterproof, so you should expect it to get a little wet. 

The bow and stern hatches are also a good size with plenty of room. You could easily take the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT on a camping trip. The hatches are easy to take on and off and are secured tightly using a bungee system. 

So, all in all, it feels like a very quality kayak with well-thought-out features. 

Performance

I tested the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT on various types of rapids. This meant I could test the kayak in various touring conditions. 

Performance on Class 1 Rapids

A kayak like the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is not designed to run rapids. Due to the length of the Delta 15.5 GT, it is not easy to maneuver quickly. It acts more like a raft meaning that much of your success on a rapid is about establishing your line in advance. There is not a lot of room for movement once in the waves. Experience reading white water plays a large role in your experience taking the Delta 15.5 GT down rapids. 

The bow is nice and high so it sheds the water beautifully. So, it can be a fun kayak to paddle if you can choose a good line. 

Performance on Class 2 Rapids

To take the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT down the Blakeney rapids, a set of class 2 rapids (in this season), I popped a paddle skirt on the kayak and scouted to check the water level. A thermoformed kayak like the Delta 15.5 GT can take some knocks and bumps but is less able to take big hits as they can crack. So it is important to check out any class 2 rapids and ensure they are not too shallow before you take the 15.5 GT down them. 

The Delta Kayak 15.5 GT survived the run which is a testament to a great boat with a high-quality build. That said, I wouldn’t want to take it down rapids like this very often. It probably took a year off the boat’s life from just this trip. The bottom is pretty scraped up and will need a polish to feel smooth afterward. 

Who is The Delta Kayak 15.5 GT For?

The Delta Kayak 15.5 GT is a touring kayak and not a high-performance touring kayak. As a touring kayak, it has two bulkheads (one in front of the feet and one behind the seat)and can remain buoyant when swamped. Bulkheads make it much easier to empty a swamped kayak and re-enter the boat when on wide, open water. It also has thigh hooks and a small cockpit which takes a skirt. This makes it rollable. Therefore it is a step up from a recreational kayak. 

The Delta 15.5 GT is for someone who wants a touring kayak that can be taken on almost any water. It is not designed for high-end rough water but can deal with it. If you know you will be dealing with lots of high-end rough water, you should purchase a higher-performance touring kayak. But this kayak can confidently deal with all conditions if they arise. 

It is not a kayak for anyone. You do need to be able to have the money to afford a kayak like this. But if you have the money and are looking for an all-around touring kayak that can do anything, then this is a kayak to consider. 

Overall Review of the Delta Kayak 15.5

I really like the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT. Many people have recommended Delta Kayaks to me, and having tried the 15.5 GT, I now see why. It is a beautiful, well-made craft. It is comfortable, light, fast, and stable on the water. All in all, it is a great all-around kayak. So two thumbs up for the Delta Kayak 15.5 GT. 

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