Absolutely agree! I will definitely rent for now and will look for an Intex Challenger or Sea Eagle 370 over the winter. Just earned another subscriber!
Wisdom about brand loyalty at 6:26 is something we all need to hear. It applies to so many other types of brand loyalties like news outlets, political parties, religion, and even lifestyle choices. Challenge the sacred, test the waters of breaking your self-limiting loyalties. Your critical ear for truth will become wise and your horizons will become wide.
WE LOVE YOU!!! Thank you so much for these non-biased reviews. Thank you for sharing your love for kayaking with other lovers of kayaking. Your reviews have helped me shape my opinion and investment. This is so important given kayaks have risen in price by 20-50% since the Pandemic. Thank you again!!
In the world of UA-cam you're one of the genuine & decent guys. A new Intex Excursion Pro K2 here in the UK right now from £270 - £400 sterling. Circa 400 - 600 Canadian D. A crazy difference in prices.
I just wanted to thank you for your kayak content. I'm interested in taking up kayaking as a hobby, and thought I had done lots of online research about inflatables, but your information, from a personal and practical perspective, really helped clarify things for me (and introduced me to 'drop stitch' tech, which I had not come across, since I live in Denmark and it is not super common here.) It was so nice to hear from a 'real person,' and not just read content and see promo videos from the manufacturers!!! Really helped steer me in the right direction...so Thank YOU!
This is literally the best video guide to watch before buying an inflatable! I strongly agree that you should not affiliate with brands but choose what suits you the best and the fact that prices of the inflatables went skyhigh during this season. Last year in the end of a season I bought a Sevylor Colorado (cat. 2) for almost half of the price that it is on the market now, and it works like a charm luckily :) I am very satisfied with it but as all category 2 kayaks (so all brands not just this one that are vinyl in fabric construction) it is a nightmare for dismounting washing, drying and mounting back again. If you have no room or conditions to wash and fully dry category 2 kayak you might reconsider your decision and buy cat. 1 or 3 that you may just wash with several bottles of water and then just wipe down with a towel, without dismounting, drying and mounting back again required.
Thank you for your excellent advice in both your videos! Your advice on drop stitch had led us to purchase 2 Driftsun Rover 220s instead of category 2 kayaks for our family of 4. We have been going out on the water twice a week and it has been a great chance for our family during these challenging times. Thank you!!!
Hi Jack, based on your recommendations, I went with index explorer at first and then with the sea eagle razor lite 473 rl. I hope to make a comprehensive review video just like you soon. Although my wife and I are newbies in the kayaking world, we are hitting the water almost every week in the last 1.5 months. I just wanted to thank you. Also, I should mention that there are some issues with the razor lite, especially regarding drying. I found that it does capture some water inside the connecting parts between the walls and the floor. Unless someone keeps the kayak inclined for some duration, it's difficult to dry it thoroughly. Also, with large wakes and strong winds, razor lite drifts and constant course correction is needed. It is way way better than say Intex explorer, but the fin is not enough when compared with a rudder. The seat is also terrible when paddling for hours. We had to purchase extra cushions. Other than that, it's fast and very responsive and so far our household likes it.
Thanks! Basically your first video made me ( I'm such a 250 pounder ) decide to go for a drop stitch bottom kayak. I bought a 3-person Itiwit ( sold by budget sports shops Decathlon ) and use it together with my girl. It's not going as straight as a stiff kayak goes, but it's OK and very comfy to sit on ( rather than in ) too.
This video is very helpful. Your first video about selecting inflatables has really helped me make a decision on which type of kayak to go for. I've ended up going for an Intex Chellenger K2 which is a category one. I'm waiting for delivery but i'm also a heavier person so have had lots to consider when buying. Have wanted a kayak for years and finally (thanks to lockdown, i'm in the UK) i've decided to go for it living by the sea. I particularly value your expertise because you've made me think about things i wouldn't necessarily have considered. THANK YOU.
Thanks for all your effort with these videos. I want to add my opinion regarding iSUPs. I have become a pretty avid paddler and I have found that my favorite way to hit the water is while using a kayak seat and kayak paddle on my iSUP. I use a Thurso board which has one large skeg and two smaller ones. It tracks really, really well, it inflates up to 15 psi which makes it stiffer than nearly any kayak, and it's quite light, fast and maneuverable. It dries off very easily and packs up quickly. Also, you can strap a fair amount of gear onto it if necessary and I even clip a kayak sail to it for use when the wind is right. I do stand up on it from time to time, and I enjoy the physicality of that and appreciate having that option, but I use it 90% as a sit-on-top kayak and it works wonderfully for that purpose. While there are obviously some wonderful inflatable kayaks out there, I strongly recommend using an iSUP as a sit-on-top kayak and I've become a big fan of Thurso!
Really great idea! I'm researching both inflatable kayaks and iSUPs and want something small to sail ⛵ too... so this is actually mind blowing for me lol
Intex excursion K2 works great for me. At least now it does. It's rated for 400lbs and when I first got it I was 350lbs. Yeah. Yikes. I wasn't able to use it due to sagging issues and lack of core strength on my part. I've since lost 70lbs (and continuing) and it works perfectly for me. I've had mine out several times since getting down to 280 and have not had any issues. I'm new to the sport and my experience so far has made me want to get further into it. Anyway that's been my experience. have fun and be safe on the water
👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿 I thought You did a fantastic job with the 1st video and this one is better. I appreciate Your honesty and objectivity, some people find it to be a challenge.
You make many great points. I have had two razorlite kayaks and the foot pegs really are a great addition. I have learned to fold the kayak despite the edition. It's important to properly size the paddle to the boat and person. A good quality dual action pump, seat, and paddle is worth the dollars spent.
Thanks for a great follow up video! I watched your previous videos and found them extremely helpful. I live in Europe but we have Intex here as well. Bought an Explorer K2 as my first kayak and I loved it! Great fun to go on a duo trip and take picknick and apero on board as well. 2 weeks later I bought the Challenger K1 as well, same brand, smaller boat, great for the solo trips which I use more as upper body workout (my primary hobby is dancing so the kayaking is a great addition to all that legwork). I understand it’s all starter gear but I have no problems whatsoever with the pump or the paddles, it gets the job done. The only thing I could complain about is the carrying bagm it’s so weak that dismounted paddle parts cut into it. Second complaint is about the Explorer K2, it has the stitches on top which hurts on arms. I wouldn’t buy any other kayak though. Not interetested in dropstitch for now, I’m also one of the persons that cares about the kayak carrying weight. In regards to Sevylor and they haveing decent kayaks in Europe, when we went with a group of 4 kayaks recently a friend had a Sevylor (cat 2) for already 5 years and he was really happy with it. Indeed the drying is an absolute pain, he needed a week for it to dry he said. Anyway keep up the great work with the channel, I watched a LOT of channels and reviews before I bought that first kayak and your videos stand head over heels above all the other ones. The only thing (as a European) I miss is the brand Itiwit, it’s from Decathlon but very popular here in Europe and I see those kayaks (together with Intex and Sevylor) a lot here in Belgian waters.
Great Video! You are a great speaker, informative and I never once wanted to look at the table of contents or fast forward. The part 2 update was fantastic.
Great advice about staying objective about our favorite brands. I am so glad you were honest about the drying issue. I live in a very humid and hot area, so that type wouldn't work for us. I will need to wait for dropstitch to go down in price I think.
Great follow-up video Jack! I started out with an intex challenger last year. Loved the thing and had lots of fun in the water. but I knew I needed something more solid, so this year I bought the Intex Excursion Pro. Again, solid boat for the price, but I did get it when it was starting to become overpriced. So I returned it (again, great little boat, just didn't feel like paying extra due to high demand). About a month and a half ago, got my hands on a Saturn FK396 kayak for the lowest price I could find on a category 3. Its got large pontoons (3.6 psi), a very large skeg, and a drop stitch floor (10 psi). It handles like a champ! It came with cheap - short paddles so I invested in a longer (250 cm) and lighter (carbon fiber) paddle and it made a world of difference. It looks like older Sea Eagle Explorers (in my opinion, they could very well be made in the same factory) and it is suuuper solid. I've been following closely your advises and so far I've been having a great time out on the water. I am hoping this one will last me a while, and perhaps next summer I will get an all-drop stitch boat. Thanks again and looking forward to more videos!
Sea Eagle's 370 is rated for class III, although I personally have not used the craft on that type of water yet. I have at least 60 trips with mine, which is a tandem, on many rivers in Florida and slower sections of the New River in Va, which can be very shallow at times. I have had two holes in my boat, one was a non air chamber seam which let a bit of water in but no air our. Easy to repair, the second is a air chamber seam tear on the bottom of the kayak, It happened during inflation not while being used. I am presently trying to repair it. I have had the craft for five years and am going to order another one very soon with the deluxe seats which my wife and I both enjoy while wearing inflatable vests. They are not comfortable with typical paddle vests, the seat causes the vest to rise up around one's neck, and needs to be pulled down and adjusted often. If I were to upgrade, it would be to the Sea Eagle 380x with the drop stich floor and use the same inflatable seats. Either of these crafts are good for us. We live full time in a 40 ft motorhome and packing and storage of our craft, including paddles that break down is important to us. As a member of a large inflatable group in Florida, I have learned that the Sea Eagle Fast Track or Razorlite, which are ideal for open water, would not be as good for most of the rivers we travel on as the Explorer and Sports models by Sea Eagle. Thanks for your video, I found it very informative.
I bought a Inflatable boat from intex and liked the quality, but as a row boat it was slow so I started to look into Inflatable kayaks. Only found out a 2 person explorer cost over 500 bucks in Amazon Canada. Found out they raised the price from just 120 dollars. Waiting for the price to drop when the summer is over and get one for next year. Very informative video, man. Keep up the good work !
You're 100% right man. I've seen the intex excursion pro going for $500 on Walmart and listed on Amazon for up to $700. I had to hold on buying a kayak for now.
Thank you for your 2 videos. I enjoyed learning more about inflatables. I went to an inflatable because of medical conditions I could no longer handle transporting my hard shell kayak. I love my inflatable and always get a lot of questions about it when I go out. Thanks again. 👍🏻
Hello, this and the previous video are simply awesome. Apart from a selection of Ted talks, I don't remember the last time I came across a video that was so well balanced and insightful. Thank you so much for making this.
Thanks so much for making these videos! Appreciate your genuine, general positivity in all aspects. Would love to see another video with newer updates! 💛
I own two kayaks: Intex Challenger K1 (a category I named Shoe-goo Canoe II) and Sevylor Quickpack (a category II named Rode Hard and Put Up Wet). I agree that the Intex is a good starter and this is my second one that I purchased for companions. Start clear of rocks and sticks in the water and it will be a good boat. One issue I had with this kayak is it's low weight capacity. At 220 pound capacity, it is not a good choice for people that with over 200 pounds so keep that in mind and perhaps choose a tandem or a category II kayak. As for my Sevylor, I actually love it. It converts into a backpack and that is why I chose it. It is lightweight and I can carry it on my back on a hike go for a paddle then put it back on my back to home back to the car. This makes many more lakes accessible. The downfall, as her name suggests, is that it doesn't dry out very well and is prone to mildew. I have developed a drying system that works well though. The inner boat can be removed and dried out just like you would a category I kayak. The outer skirt can then be dried completely. I can do this on my small patio or on my front sidewalk of my apartment complex. The other people's is the skeg. It is made of flimsy plastic and thus is perpetually bent to one side making tracking a little more difficult, but not extremely difficult. Other than that, she is comfortable and enjoyable to tool around a lake in. I believe I may have been a contributor to the lack of supply because everybody I take out on the lake with me have invested in their own kayaks. Now my son and my sister want a kayak and there are few to be found. I have been able to find Intex at my local hi-school Pharmacy and currently have 2 in my car I purchased for my sister. They were priced at $120 but they were on sale and they each only $80. So don't just check or your local spri ng goods store, Amazon or eBay, also check your local pharmacies, you may be able to find something.
I have a sevylor quickpak as well. I do enjoy it as its so convenient to transport and set up but I have problems with getting water in it as a paddle and slows it down considerably. Do you have this problem? As any suggestions?
Holy cow Jack, you are correct on the generic..."AirCanoe Cruiser 470D Dropstitch Kayak", I agree, so much about this kayak is near identical to the Sea-Eagle 473rl, and I found it less than half the price @ outdoorxl. Thanks again!
Thank you for this video, it's very objectiv and useful. I think, one thing is very important: never buy a kayak without trying it first. As I' bought my first kayak about 20 years ago, I went to the water with the seller and I could try 3 different ones. At that time I have chosen my Rotomod Isac, wich I am using very often, and I'm very satisfied with it. Meanwhile I have paddled with Point65, Prion, Reval Midi, Itiwit X500 v2, and more. Every kayak has pro's and contra's. So I mean, it is very important to try it. Some sellers make "open day", when there are many kayaks to try.
When you are able to, a specific test of Intex Excursion Pro would interest many I think. It's easy enough to find opinions, but you are more thorough and put more dedicated thought into it than most. I think it would be especially interesting to see it contrasted with Intex's two other popular offerings - Explorer and Challenger. In what ways is it truly an upgrade and what ways is it just more of the same.
Very helpful as I’m looking to upgrade from my Intex K2 Explorer to a drop stitch for kayak camping in Scotland. I’m kinda veering towards the Sea Eagle Fast Track 2 person, for solo use. Thank you for this video, and Part 1 too.
Hi, I bought a Sevylor Waterton several weeks ago (before I saw your part 1 video) and was so disappointed when it arrived defective. It looked so well made but when we inflated it, one of the side chambers was angled to the side and the whole kayak was tilted. So sad because there seem to be no other tandem kayak options available now for less than $1000. We got our money back from the seller and are hoping the Driftsun Voyager or Chinook 120 will come back in stock soon! As a woman, I really need a kayak that I can transport by myself. I have a Pelican but I sadly need my husband to help me get it off our car.
I fully agree with your assessment that the fabric cover of the Advanced Elements kayaks is an inherently problematic feature that greatly diminishes their usability. I find myself planning trips very much around how to dry the kayak after using and putting it back into storage. After all, people buy inflatables because they most often DON’T have the space to store or lay out to dry a 16ft long boat. That being said, we spent many amazing days on lakes, rivers, and the ocean with our Advanced Elements AE1007-R Tandem. We also got the conversion kit that protects from paddle drips and and the occasional wave spraying over the bow. Especially in rough conditions, I feel this is really a necessary add-on. One of the advantages of inflatables is that they are much more stable and safer in the ocean than conventional hard shells. The float over the water rather than cutting through it, and the width makes them almost impossible to tip over. A hardshell, even with floatation in front and back, becomes pretty much immobile once full of water. So now I am looking to buy a drop stitch kayak and I am looking at both the Advanced Elements Airvolution and Sea Eagle Razorlite, but both kayaks appear to be pretty open, especially the Sea Eagle. Do you know of any dropstich models that allow attachment of a spray protection? I
@@inneradventures hmmm, seems like the better option, especially if they produce a spray skirt for the Airvolution at some point. But I found your argument of 2 layers vs the single layer Sea Eagles very convincing. In any case, thx for your reply!
Nice job. I've owned all three categories and have used them on rivers, lakes and ocean. It is important to keep an open mind, as you point out. I have a very high quality Sevylor now, which I got lucky to find, and for cheap. It's heavy, but well made and tough. I like it because it's easier to store than a hardshell, and it is versatile. I feel safe in white water (self bailing), flat water tracks reasonably well (it's a double) and on the ocean (unless a shark takes a bite out of it), because it won't sink. Generally speaking, however, I agree it's better to avoid Sevylor kayaks. I've destroyed many of them, and sometimes it was a life threatening experience when they failed. Advanced Elements also has a wide range in terms of quality. But they are a good company when it comes to customer care (as long as you survive using one of their crappy models). Overall, you've provided a lot of good advice, and it's nice to be able to share your videos. Thanks.
A small thing about dragging the kayak on the ground. This just happened to me, a small pebble got into the skeg attachment, so I couldn't get the skeg fully in. This was just before I wanted to put the boat in the water. It took me about half an hour to get the damn thing out, and a lot of sweat. This was on an Intex Explorer 2, but it might happen to many other models.
good infos for beginners. here in europe gumotex sells very well, i tested the safari model and then bought the tandem twist. it's made of neoprene wich is more durable than pvc, 13kg and 80cm wide, it paddles better than many sot kayaks. before buying it i tested a dropstich boat but was heavier and bigger, also it sits higher in the sea so was more sensible to the wind, the bow tried to go over the waves rather than through them so didn't track too well. i also used an aqua marina, a bit slower than the gumotex but lighter and cheaper. fancy neoprene kayaks here are the grabners, they look cool but are also a bit heavy and expensive
Great review! I've had a similar journey, starting with Advanced Elements and getting frustrated with the cloth exterior, soft bottom, bladders that get out of alignment, trying a couple of other ones and eventually graduating to a category 3, Aquaglide Chelan. I love the drop stitch floor and the quick and easy drying and ability to easily wipe clean the entire kayak. Now I'm intriqued by the Sea Eagle RazorLite...
Yep. My wife wanted to go out with my daughter and I (hard shell old olympics kayaks) but was afraid of rolling... So i bought her a Sterns (Advanced Element really) single seater. She loved it, but i despised it. It'd take a day or two to fully dry outside with repeated towling. A week in the garage. It sags so badly in the seat it was like sitting a hammock. The floor used a different sized Boston valve and couldn't be inflated tight enough to hold a strong shape, but it did soften the butt blow of a passing rock. I found if you put a sturdy fabric over EPS beach boogie board in the bottom instead of that inflatable floor, the boat is much better. However it is really just a very outdated boat design. After 10 years, my wife finally got brave enough to paddle a hard shell. Mostly because I told her to blow up and dry the boat herself.
Really interesting stuff I have bought a type two kayak and yeah the drying is a pain takes long time, the water condensates and then precipitate creating water drops in the edges of the seams, you need to use a towel to effectively remove the water
I am so impressed and you saved me from buying an advanced element kayak Thank you and you are so thorough and knowledgeable Sheila Vancouver BC Canada
Covid 19 has made prices go up! My Sea Eagle was $295 seven years ago. It was worth every penny. Great material and stable. I see several when Austin. No, it's not like my my $3,000 Hobie kayak, but it doesn't weigh 81 pounds and I do not have to put it on my trailer. People have owned them for over 20 years. You can always return it with their six month return.
2020 was crazy year for any boat. Yacht, seadoo, kayak, canoe. Because of covid lockdowns. I ordered a carbon fibre, kevlar blend canoe, Nova Craft, blue steel prospector 16. Made in Canada, Weighs 48 lbs. and had to wait a year. You should check out out light canoes, they carry 1100 lbs, stable and as light as a kayak, and quick. You can use your kayak paddle like I do. Best of all they are made here in North America, not Korea or China. Also they hold value and last a life time.
Thanks for the update video! I bought a brand new Intex Challenger K2 and got it at a fantastic price. I've been out 4 times so far...3 times on a canal (solo) and once on a lake. The lake trip, I had another person with me. So far, I'm happy. I may upgrade to a drop stitch, but I'll see. Thanks again for your excellent advice! Happy kayaking!
@@abbyyanow5811 I bought it on Amazon UK and after VAT and conversion from UK pounds to Euro it was €100. I've been out 5 times and plan to head out this week too. My friend has the Intex Explorer and my other friend got one from Lidl or Aldi. The Challenger out performed the two of them which I was surprised as I thought the Explorer was meant to be better.
I think part of the reason for the price inflation is that lots of people suddenly have lots of spare time and messing about in boats has suddenly become a possibility rather than a vague idea. But, like bikes, the manufacturers have sold out of this year's stock and cannot easily swing their manufacturing back into action at short notice. I have seen a story that there are only a handful of factories in the world which make dropstitch boats and they are all in China.
Another great and useful video Jack! I ended up buying a kokopelli packraft after looking at kayaks for about 5 months. Loved that you touched on them in this video, hope you get one to try out soon. Definition not as good for flat water but a good option for moving water. My general sentiment is also that packrafts more durable (I might be wrong). I find that common review complains for category 3 are seam failures instead of punctures. I find that rarer with TPU packrafts that are typically heat welded instead of glued.
I watched your first video, super helpful. Best video on UA-cam. Based on that I went group 3. Otherwise it would have been group 2. Between summer demand and covid disruption of supplies very hard to find almost any for sale. Ended up with an Aquaglide Chelan 140. They went out of their way to call various dealers to find one for me. Standard side tubes but drop stitch floor. Seems very nice. I could not find any longer tandems, but maybe that’s ok. My wife and I are only 5’8 and 5’3 and fairly light. But as you say it’s kind of a 1.5 person kayak. But it holds us, fishing gear, cooler. But won’t work if we ever want to go camping. But it’s a good size for solo kayaking, and we have plans for solo trips already. Again, your advice was super handy. If we really get into to it maybe buy a single fully drop stitch, like a sports car to go with the mini van. I know which one my wife will take. 🤣
Just wanted to follow that my young adult son and I proved me wrong! We went on a great three day lake camping and fishing trip. Did require using light, but not hyper-light camping gear. Sixty liter backpacks lashed to fore and aft decks, cooler in the middle, seats as far as possible to front and rear. He is 5’9” and I’m 5’8”, and it was a little tighter than optimal with the cooler. But not bad paddling three plus miles up and across the lake to an island all to ourselves. We were loaded right to the claimed 400lb limit, and it seemed we could have added more. So, while the 155 would have been better, this worked!
@@rockymountaintrout2689 Still working just fine, holding up really well. Got out quite a bit last summer and fall. The 140 works well single or tandem. Would consider the 155 if you were using exclusively tandem and you have long legs, or if tandem and you want more room for gear on camping trips.
@@rockymountaintrout2689 I’m 5 9, wife 5 3, works well. Son also 5 9 and we packed it for camping and while tight, worked ok. You should be fine. I hope you and your dad enjoy the boat.
Excellent video pal, very good points made here and so relevant for someone like myself looking for a kayak to use both on canal, lakes and calm shores for fishing a sightseeing. Inflatables have major advantages over hard shell, and the thought of having to transport, own and store and move a hardshell has put me off for years. I've looked at inflatables in the past only to come across huge entry level ones that I wouldn't trust when at sea. Love the videos mate, pretty set on the intex excursion pro. I found one for a under £100 delivered to I'm from America Cheap price on an intex page but haven't received it as of yet. Fear I may have fallen for a scam or they are reluctant, or unable to send. But will take this up with my bank soon to retrieve money.
Cant resist to comment. GREAT REVIEW! 99% aggree on everything said. My only objection is footrests importance.I believe a proper footrest is really helpfull for efficient paddling. Pls carry on your reviews.
Thanks Jack for all the details , and Category 3 is definitely the way to go if you are in the $1,000 or so range. I am going to go with the Razor R1 Ultra since it has the drop stitch floor I fell in love with, with the Navarro, but the Navarro I received had quality issues and needed to be sent back. My gain in fact. Since I think a great tracking kayak is the way to go after playing around with a Deschutes 110 for a while, that my wife still loves. Till she tries the Razor I guess? :)
The Razor R1 Ultra is the one I'm currently looking at too. They have free shipping to Canada. Have to buy pump and paddle separately. Price is competitive. Looks all around impressive. PS - did you end up getting it? If so, have you used it ?
Love your videos Jack. Your humour is gold and your advice is platinum. I was about to buy an advanced elements for the exact reasons you describe in review one. I'm hoping this is a hobby the whole family will enjoy (and yes we're carrying our kayak by bike! ;).. But drying the AE would be a total put off! Your advice to start entry and go from there made me more confident to pick up an on special Intex Excursion Pro. Your comments at 16.30 almost had me spitting whiskey. You've a great philosophy on the world and to turn around your usual sign off, if you're ever in Aotearoa/New Zealand, we'd love to offer you.. I'd like to say bed, but at least dinner and a camp site.
Dean, Thank you so much for your encouragement! I happen to be in New Zealand now and would love to find someone who has a kayak to get on a water here.
Great reviews. Just bought sea eagle razor light. I so much enjoy activity on water, that this can not be a bad buy. Don't give a crap about brand, just about quality.
Thank you so much for the very informative videos . You have certainly done your homework in helping to make buying a inflatable kayak an easier choice for us all .
Thank you for addressing weight distribution. I'm 6"4 and weigh 300lbs. I destroy mountains hiking and climbing and swim between islands that take 2hrs but that is following my friends in kayaks. Tried to explain to my girlfriend why I'm technically overweight.
Good video. I especially liked the part about the paddles. I have used a Intex K2 Explorer and Sea Eagle 370 with the paddles that come with them. The K2 Explorer is great for the price ($100 or less), however that is about it. The paddles are TERRIBLE (too short). The K2 is also really slow. It is annoying how it doesnt have 3 boston valves (the floor uses a large opening which doesnt take long to inflate). I use the Sea Eagle paddles with the K2 now when I go out with my family. The Sea Eagle 370 is much larger than the K2, however it is also a lot more expensive. It really can take two adults as opposed to the K2 which is fine for an adult and a child. I purchased a Sea Eagle 380x which I will be getting soon. I chose it due to the space, drop stitch floor, durability, and ability to go up to class 4 white water ( I will mostly stick with class II-III though). I also agree that a inflatable paddle board is great to hang out with in the water. My kids love going on it and using it as a platform. They are also pretty fast (or maybe anything seems fast compared to the K2...).
I agree about what you said about the k2. for me the paddle lenght was ok but they are flimsy as a hot-dog sosage. we went on river trip 2 guys on the boat and the front legroom is a joke. but i am still happy about the boat.
You won’t regret the 380x, I upgraded from the intex excursion pro and was hesitant due to the price difference but after the first paddle I wouldn’t go back.
I bought my Aquaglide Columbia XP because I liked the colorway and construction. I am know having problems with the company because they don't make replacement parts for their kayaks!
Another home-run informative video on inflatables. Keep up the good work, and looking forward to more! I just noticed Kokopelli now has a line of inflatable kayaks on their site, so that would be interesting to look at.
I have spent 5 years open ocean kayaking in an inflatable. My Razorlite has performed well and has been stable the whole time. I have kayaked year round, in mild chop, in the wind, in current and a combination of all of that with no issues. The only complaint has been its propensity to weathercock.
After watching your videos i did some research on what was available and i came across a fully dropstiched 2 person kayak on ebay by a company called f2, after doing some research on the company found out they had been making inflatables for years and they are a good brand so i decided to get it! It was only £640 delivered from eastside sports, its great we paddled around brownsea island in Poole at the weekend about 5 miles i can't recommend this kayak enough check it out
I talked about them briefly and am planning on making a small video on them. I don't have much experience, but if you are crossing a waterway while backpacking - they are great.
Even a cheap one does ok on wild water...rivers class 1,2. ...i never use them on flat water, they are to slow....wild water... Switserland, Rhine valley, austra...Lech, Belgium...Ardennes... Forget the hard kayak, travel for 800 miles with that thing on your roof...takes a lot more fuel...
Thanks for all the great info Jack. Much appreciated! We've been kicking around buying for a while now...and after a great day on the water yesterday with family and their kayaks, we spent much of today shopping online. And you called it... almost nothing is available and what is, is double or triple retail. So we wait..Ha. What do you think about what you've seen on the AirVolution2? Sorta makes me wanna wait till its out. ..and splurge!
Oh dratts, I was hoping to hear more about the all drop stitch kayaks, loved your first video... moved me straight up the line. No point in investing in 1or 2, I have a garage full of 1-2 toys... looking for something I won’t be replacing... looking forward to your review on all drop stitch kayaks ( not just the bottom)
the weight capacity is part of why I'm looking at a sea eagle; I'm upper 200s myself. And their 330 is rated to 500 which is a nice margin. The intex ones are mostly all rated to low 200s until you get to the tandems.
Hi Jack, love your kayak video's. You've helped me a lot in getting closer to purchasing my next Kayak, let me ask... in this video, you mentioned a generic to the Sea Eagle RazorLite 473rl, that looks so much like it, that it could even be made by same company, which leads to my budget of being a third cost less. Please tell me that name again? TIA Greg.
Thanks again Jack, incredible how much in common the AIRCANOE CRUISER 470D DROPSTITCH is alike the Razorlite 473rl . Materials, measurements but cost is just under 600 at one site. I believe you dubbed it the generic of Razorlite 473rl . your not kidding. have a great day.
One thing I have not heard you discuss is width. I am not a big guy, our first Advaced Elements kayak was very narrow and our hips constantly hit the sides. After a 1/2 hour, we needed to be done (I have a 33" waist). I learned this is a common problem with inflatables. The dimensions can be every bit as important as these other issues.
Hmmm... Weird, I have never experienced not heard this before. Sounds like our waists are similarly sized and I never noticed it in any kayak. But yes, fully dropstitch kayaks have a big advantage in this area.
Ha I have a cheap Sevylor that I've had for years and have really enjoyed it, took it on many trips even a couple of airplane trips. I think it's called a Tahiti Vista or something it's got a clear bottom which is also kind of cool. It's fun and it got me out on the water for very little money. I kind of abused it but it only had maybe one or two small leaks that I fixed. It's slow and it does not track well. It actually tracks a little better with two people. But not much! If it only had a skeg I bet it would be pretty good but it doesn't. Don't buy it! I've paddled really nice light hard shells and even built my own wood kayak from CLC but I still have a soft spot in my heart for the old Sevylor. I just think it's funny how even a really lousy kayak is fun and worthwhile. My advice is to go buy a cheap one but make sure it has a skeg and you will have a blast for very little money indeed. And get a double for goodness sake they're very fun even if only one of you is into paddling. It's not a serious boat but most people just want to go out in the water and have fun. And you can put it in the trunk of your car even the tiniest car!
Hi Jack. You are so kind to offer so much information and I thank you. I have never kayaked before and have already purchased the Sevylor K1 Quikpak, so I am stuck with it. I ordered an Origami Paddler from Kickstarter and am curious if you know about this one. They have begun manufacturing but I will learn to kayak with this Sevylor until mine is delivered. It’s sad that the idiots pick your video apart and you feel you have to correct any part of your professional wonderful first video. They’re jealous as none could do their own video so they think they look good criticizing yours.
Jack, I have a Point 65 Tequila modular kayak. I have an extra insert to convert this a two seater. The reason I bought this kayak was space consideration. I live in a flat, and drive a micro camper van. I added some mods (in the single configuration) to make it useful for fishing in the Clyde Estuary (salt water) in Scotland. I bought my kayak about 4 years ago, before inflatable kayaks had any traction in the UK. Have you considered doing a review on alternative kayaks to the inflatables that can still be stored in tiny spaces? Great video!
I've never really seen a modular kayak in real life. They seem to be very uncommon around here. But the folding ones are becoming significantly more popular now and I'm hoping to get more experience and make some videos about them
@@inneradventures Thank you for responding Jack! Did you Google the Tequila kayak? I know you mentioned you usually kayak in fresh water lakes and such. In Scotland we have a lot of sea around us. A folding kayak would be a death trap in salt water. The only reason I looked at inflatables was to consider trading over to something even smaller than what I have now. But, I want a kayak that I can trust my life with. Have a great day!
Yes, I googled the Tequila kayak. I am curious about how secure are the connections between modules. What is the difference between salt and fresh water that would make folding kayaks death traps in your perception?
Recently I've discovered some Russian manufacturers that combine the cat. 3 inflatable kayaks with a rigit aluminun tube frame that goes along the keel and has several ribs. The sit is also attached to the frame - so the tracking and the speed approach ones of the rigid kayak. I was surprised how well it actually performed. Those kayaks are already sold in Europe under the Nortik brand (currently for an insanely hight prices), but I hope that you'd have them also on the US market soon to try out :)
No, it is different. I think it's more of a heritage from the Taimen kayaks - the skin on frame kayak of the soviet era in which you can disassemble the frame and fit all the pieces into a backpack. Here, most of the frame is replaced by inflatable elements. Google for the Scubi xl kayak or the russian name "Шуя".
This is a great video. I have a sea eagle 370, but the yaw makes me nervous I'm going to tip all of the time and I usually just rent. I'm questioning figuring how to fit a hard kayak in my car or drop stitch. I feel like the sea eagle was a waste of 350 at this point.
We enjoy our Advanced Elements tandem. The drying has been a non-issue for us as we just leave it out overnight after use. We also considered sea eagles but at the time of purchase there were many negative reviews about them splitting seams that scared us off. We may try them in the future but again, our AE has met out needs and people ask is about it everywhere we go.
I heard it was a great kayak for kids, dogs and extra gear. At 15 feet it is a true tandem and you can paddle with one person, although it's a lot more work.
Jack, thanks for the informative videos. I’ve been researching DS inflatibles for some time. You’re info is helpful in the mix. 2+ months after release there are still no published “real” reviews of the Advanced Elements Airvolution 2. Have you anyone else you’ve spoken with had a chance to see one, test one or form any opinions? No hard recommendations asks - just “word on the street” type stuff.
Finally honest, useful and relevant content. This is what UA-cam was intended to be. Congrats on staying true and consumer oriented.
Absolutely agree! I will definitely rent for now and will look for an Intex Challenger or Sea Eagle 370 over the winter. Just earned another subscriber!
Wisdom about brand loyalty at 6:26 is something we all need to hear. It applies to so many other types of brand loyalties like news outlets, political parties, religion, and even lifestyle choices. Challenge the sacred, test the waters of breaking your self-limiting loyalties. Your critical ear for truth will become wise and your horizons will become wide.
WE LOVE YOU!!! Thank you so much for these non-biased reviews. Thank you for sharing your love for kayaking with other lovers of kayaking. Your reviews have helped me shape my opinion and investment. This is so important given kayaks have risen in price by 20-50% since the Pandemic. Thank you again!!
In the world of UA-cam you're one of the genuine & decent guys.
A new Intex Excursion Pro K2 here in the UK right now from £270 - £400 sterling.
Circa 400 - 600 Canadian D.
A crazy difference in prices.
No need to apologize to idiots. Folks nitpick on everything. Thanks for these videos, they're awesome and extremely helpful.
Yeap!
Ah, yes, everyone who doesn’t share your opinion is an idiot. What a beautiful way to view the world.
I just wanted to thank you for your kayak content. I'm interested in taking up kayaking as a hobby, and thought I had done lots of online research about inflatables, but your information, from a personal and practical perspective, really helped clarify things for me (and introduced me to 'drop stitch' tech, which I had not come across, since I live in Denmark and it is not super common here.) It was so nice to hear from a 'real person,' and not just read content and see promo videos from the manufacturers!!! Really helped steer me in the right direction...so Thank YOU!
This is literally the best video guide to watch before buying an inflatable! I strongly agree that you should not affiliate with brands but choose what suits you the best and the fact that prices of the inflatables went skyhigh during this season. Last year in the end of a season I bought a Sevylor Colorado (cat. 2) for almost half of the price that it is on the market now, and it works like a charm luckily :) I am very satisfied with it but as all category 2 kayaks (so all brands not just this one that are vinyl in fabric construction) it is a nightmare for dismounting washing, drying and mounting back again. If you have no room or conditions to wash and fully dry category 2 kayak you might reconsider your decision and buy cat. 1 or 3 that you may just wash with several bottles of water and then just wipe down with a towel, without dismounting, drying and mounting back again required.
Thank you for your excellent advice in both your videos! Your advice on drop stitch had led us to purchase 2 Driftsun Rover 220s instead of category 2 kayaks for our family of 4. We have been going out on the water twice a week and it has been a great chance for our family during these challenging times. Thank you!!!
Hi Jack, based on your recommendations, I went with index explorer at first and then with the sea eagle razor lite 473 rl. I hope to make a comprehensive review video just like you soon. Although my wife and I are newbies in the kayaking world, we are hitting the water almost every week in the last 1.5 months. I just wanted to thank you. Also, I should mention that there are some issues with the razor lite, especially regarding drying. I found that it does capture some water inside the connecting parts between the walls and the floor. Unless someone keeps the kayak inclined for some duration, it's difficult to dry it thoroughly. Also, with large wakes and strong winds, razor lite drifts and constant course correction is needed. It is way way better than say Intex explorer, but the fin is not enough when compared with a rudder. The seat is also terrible when paddling for hours. We had to purchase extra cushions. Other than that, it's fast and very responsive and so far our household likes it.
Ignore the haters. Love the channel. Thank you. Seriously saved me hours and thousands of dollars.
Even 3 years later, your videos are good, they have the same kayak on the market, no big change, no big competitors, so thank's for your advices.
Wow someone who finally keeps it real. Thanks for this valuable info as I have been searching and searching for the best option.
Someone please give this man an award! applause!
Thanks! Basically your first video made me ( I'm such a 250 pounder ) decide to go for a drop stitch bottom kayak. I bought a 3-person Itiwit ( sold by budget sports shops Decathlon ) and use it together with my girl. It's not going as straight as a stiff kayak goes, but it's OK and very comfy to sit on ( rather than in ) too.
Thank you jack at 50 took up this hobby which has now become a passion. Your advice gave me the best start. Many thanks
This video is very helpful. Your first video about selecting inflatables has really helped me make a decision on which type of kayak to go for. I've ended up going for an Intex Chellenger K2 which is a category one. I'm waiting for delivery but i'm also a heavier person so have had lots to consider when buying. Have wanted a kayak for years and finally (thanks to lockdown, i'm in the UK) i've decided to go for it living by the sea. I particularly value your expertise because you've made me think about things i wouldn't necessarily have considered. THANK YOU.
Thanks for all your effort with these videos. I want to add my opinion regarding iSUPs. I have become a pretty avid paddler and I have found that my favorite way to hit the water is while using a kayak seat and kayak paddle on my iSUP. I use a Thurso board which has one large skeg and two smaller ones. It tracks really, really well, it inflates up to 15 psi which makes it stiffer than nearly any kayak, and it's quite light, fast and maneuverable. It dries off very easily and packs up quickly. Also, you can strap a fair amount of gear onto it if necessary and I even clip a kayak sail to it for use when the wind is right. I do stand up on it from time to time, and I enjoy the physicality of that and appreciate having that option, but I use it 90% as a sit-on-top kayak and it works wonderfully for that purpose. While there are obviously some wonderful inflatable kayaks out there, I strongly recommend using an iSUP as a sit-on-top kayak and I've become a big fan of Thurso!
Really great idea! I'm researching both inflatable kayaks and iSUPs and want something small to sail ⛵ too... so this is actually mind blowing for me lol
I love "if you know what "crappy" is, you might better appreciate what you have." !!!!!!!!
Intex excursion K2 works great for me. At least now it does. It's rated for 400lbs and when I first got it I was 350lbs. Yeah. Yikes. I wasn't able to use it due to sagging issues and lack of core strength on my part. I've since lost 70lbs (and continuing) and it works perfectly for me. I've had mine out several times since getting down to 280 and have not had any issues. I'm new to the sport and my experience so far has made me want to get further into it. Anyway that's been my experience. have fun and be safe on the water
Came for the kayak advice, stayed for the life advice.
Came for the life advice, stayed for the kayaks.
X2
👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿
I thought You did a fantastic job with the 1st video and this one is better. I appreciate Your honesty and objectivity, some people find it to be a challenge.
Sensible, systematic, and psychologically sophisticated information on inflatable kayaking!
You make many great points. I have had two razorlite kayaks and the foot pegs really are a great addition. I have learned to fold the kayak despite the edition. It's important to properly size the paddle to the boat and person. A good quality dual action pump, seat, and paddle is worth the dollars spent.
Thanks for a great follow up video! I watched your previous videos and found them extremely helpful. I live in Europe but we have Intex here as well. Bought an Explorer K2 as my first kayak and I loved it! Great fun to go on a duo trip and take picknick and apero on board as well. 2 weeks later I bought the Challenger K1 as well, same brand, smaller boat, great for the solo trips which I use more as upper body workout (my primary hobby is dancing so the kayaking is a great addition to all that legwork). I understand it’s all starter gear but I have no problems whatsoever with the pump or the paddles, it gets the job done. The only thing I could complain about is the carrying bagm it’s so weak that dismounted paddle parts cut into it. Second complaint is about the Explorer K2, it has the stitches on top which hurts on arms. I wouldn’t buy any other kayak though. Not interetested in dropstitch for now, I’m also one of the persons that cares about the kayak carrying weight. In regards to Sevylor and they haveing decent kayaks in Europe, when we went with a group of 4 kayaks recently a friend had a Sevylor (cat 2) for already 5 years and he was really happy with it. Indeed the drying is an absolute pain, he needed a week for it to dry he said.
Anyway keep up the great work with the channel, I watched a LOT of channels and reviews before I bought that first kayak and your videos stand head over heels above all the other ones. The only thing (as a European) I miss is the brand Itiwit, it’s from Decathlon but very popular here in Europe and I see those kayaks (together with Intex and Sevylor) a lot here in Belgian waters.
Wow. Nineteen minutes of pure education. I learned so much - thank you.
Great Video! You are a great speaker, informative and I never once wanted to look at the table of contents or fast forward. The part 2 update was fantastic.
Great advice about staying objective about our favorite brands. I am so glad you were honest about the drying issue. I live in a very humid and hot area, so that type wouldn't work for us. I will need to wait for dropstitch to go down in price I think.
Great follow-up video Jack! I started out with an intex challenger last year. Loved the thing and had lots of fun in the water. but I knew I needed something more solid, so this year I bought the Intex Excursion Pro. Again, solid boat for the price, but I did get it when it was starting to become overpriced. So I returned it (again, great little boat, just didn't feel like paying extra due to high demand). About a month and a half ago, got my hands on a Saturn FK396 kayak for the lowest price I could find on a category 3. Its got large pontoons (3.6 psi), a very large skeg, and a drop stitch floor (10 psi). It handles like a champ! It came with cheap - short paddles so I invested in a longer (250 cm) and lighter (carbon fiber) paddle and it made a world of difference. It looks like older Sea Eagle Explorers (in my opinion, they could very well be made in the same factory) and it is suuuper solid. I've been following closely your advises and so far I've been having a great time out on the water. I am hoping this one will last me a while, and perhaps next summer I will get an all-drop stitch boat. Thanks again and looking forward to more videos!
Sea Eagle's 370 is rated for class III, although I personally have not used the craft on that type of water yet. I have at least 60 trips with mine, which is a tandem, on many rivers in Florida and slower sections of the New River in Va, which can be very shallow at times. I have had two holes in my boat, one was a non air chamber seam which let a bit of water in but no air our. Easy to repair, the second is a air chamber seam tear on the bottom of the kayak, It happened during inflation not while being used. I am presently trying to repair it. I have had the craft for five years and am going to order another one very soon with the deluxe seats which my wife and I both enjoy while wearing inflatable vests. They are not comfortable with typical paddle vests, the seat causes the vest to rise up around one's neck, and needs to be pulled down and adjusted often. If I were to upgrade, it would be to the Sea Eagle 380x with the drop stich floor and use the same inflatable seats. Either of these crafts are good for us. We live full time in a 40 ft motorhome and packing and storage of our craft, including paddles that break down is important to us. As a member of a large inflatable group in Florida, I have learned that the Sea Eagle Fast Track or Razorlite, which are ideal for open water, would not be as good for most of the rivers we travel on as the Explorer and Sports models by Sea Eagle.
Thanks for your video, I found it very informative.
I bought a Inflatable boat from intex and liked the quality, but as a row boat it was slow so I started to look into Inflatable kayaks. Only found out a 2 person explorer cost over 500 bucks in Amazon Canada. Found out they raised the price from just 120 dollars. Waiting for the price to drop when the summer is over and get one for next year. Very informative video, man. Keep up the good work !
Another great video. I like your style of providing your honest experience and your non-judgmental language.
You're 100% right man. I've seen the intex excursion pro going for $500 on Walmart and listed on Amazon for up to $700. I had to hold on buying a kayak for now.
Thank you for your 2 videos. I enjoyed learning more about inflatables. I went to an inflatable because of medical conditions I could no longer handle transporting my hard shell kayak. I love my inflatable and always get a lot of questions about it when I go out. Thanks again. 👍🏻
Hello, this and the previous video are simply awesome. Apart from a selection of Ted talks, I don't remember the last time I came across a video that was so well balanced and insightful. Thank you so much for making this.
Thanks so much for making these videos! Appreciate your genuine, general positivity in all aspects. Would love to see another video with newer updates! 💛
I own two kayaks: Intex Challenger K1 (a category I named Shoe-goo Canoe II) and Sevylor Quickpack (a category II named Rode Hard and Put Up Wet). I agree that the Intex is a good starter and this is my second one that I purchased for companions. Start clear of rocks and sticks in the water and it will be a good boat. One issue I had with this kayak is it's low weight capacity. At 220 pound capacity, it is not a good choice for people that with over 200 pounds so keep that in mind and perhaps choose a tandem or a category II kayak.
As for my Sevylor, I actually love it. It converts into a backpack and that is why I chose it. It is lightweight and I can carry it on my back on a hike go for a paddle then put it back on my back to home back to the car. This makes many more lakes accessible. The downfall, as her name suggests, is that it doesn't dry out very well and is prone to mildew. I have developed a drying system that works well though. The inner boat can be removed and dried out just like you would a category I kayak. The outer skirt can then be dried completely. I can do this on my small patio or on my front sidewalk of my apartment complex. The other people's is the skeg. It is made of flimsy plastic and thus is perpetually bent to one side making tracking a little more difficult, but not extremely difficult. Other than that, she is comfortable and enjoyable to tool around a lake in.
I believe I may have been a contributor to the lack of supply because everybody I take out on the lake with me have invested in their own kayaks. Now my son and my sister want a kayak and there are few to be found. I have been able to find Intex at my local hi-school Pharmacy and currently have 2 in my car I purchased for my sister. They were priced at $120 but they were on sale and they each only $80. So don't just check or your local spri
ng goods store, Amazon or eBay, also check your local pharmacies, you may be able to find something.
I have a sevylor quickpak as well. I do enjoy it as its so convenient to transport and set up but I have problems with getting water in it as a paddle and slows it down considerably. Do you have this problem? As any suggestions?
Holy cow Jack, you are correct on the generic..."AirCanoe Cruiser 470D Dropstitch Kayak", I agree, so much about this kayak is near identical to the Sea-Eagle 473rl, and I found it less than half the price @ outdoorxl.
Thanks again!
I watched this video 2X as well as his previous video and was unable to find where he mentions this. Can you tell us where it is in the video?
Thank you for this video, it's very objectiv and useful. I think, one thing is very important: never buy a kayak without trying it first. As I' bought my first kayak about 20 years ago, I went to the water with the seller and I could try 3 different ones. At that time I have chosen my Rotomod Isac, wich I am using very often, and I'm very satisfied with it. Meanwhile I have paddled with Point65, Prion, Reval Midi, Itiwit X500 v2, and more. Every kayak has pro's and contra's. So I mean, it is very important to try it. Some sellers make "open day", when there are many kayaks to try.
Trying a kayak sure is the best way to check it out.
Yet it's a luxury not available to most buyers.
When you are able to, a specific test of Intex Excursion Pro would interest many I think. It's easy enough to find opinions, but you are more thorough and put more dedicated thought into it than most. I think it would be especially interesting to see it contrasted with Intex's two other popular offerings - Explorer and Challenger. In what ways is it truly an upgrade and what ways is it just more of the same.
I would also love a specific Intex excursion video, also with any after market upgrades. Thank you!!!
Very helpful as I’m looking to upgrade from my Intex K2 Explorer to a drop stitch for kayak camping in Scotland. I’m kinda veering towards the Sea Eagle Fast Track 2 person, for solo use. Thank you for this video, and Part 1 too.
Hi, I bought a Sevylor Waterton several weeks ago (before I saw your part 1 video) and was so disappointed when it arrived defective. It looked so well made but when we inflated it, one of the side chambers was angled to the side and the whole kayak was tilted. So sad because there seem to be no other tandem kayak options available now for less than $1000. We got our money back from the seller and are hoping the Driftsun Voyager or Chinook 120 will come back in stock soon! As a woman, I really need a kayak that I can transport by myself. I have a Pelican but I sadly need my husband to help me get it off our car.
I fully agree with your assessment that the fabric cover of the Advanced Elements kayaks is an inherently problematic feature that greatly diminishes their usability. I find myself planning trips very much around how to dry the kayak after using and putting it back into storage. After all, people buy inflatables because they most often DON’T have the space to store or lay out to dry a 16ft long boat.
That being said, we spent many amazing days on lakes, rivers, and the ocean with our Advanced Elements AE1007-R Tandem. We also got the conversion kit that protects from paddle drips and and the occasional wave spraying over the bow. Especially in rough conditions, I feel this is really a necessary add-on. One of the advantages of inflatables is that they are much more stable and safer in the ocean than conventional hard shells. The float over the water rather than cutting through it, and the width makes them almost impossible to tip over. A hardshell, even with floatation in front and back, becomes pretty much immobile once full of water.
So now I am looking to buy a drop stitch kayak and I am looking at both the Advanced Elements Airvolution and Sea Eagle Razorlite, but both kayaks appear to be pretty open, especially the Sea Eagle. Do you know of any dropstich models that allow attachment of a spray protection?
I
I imagine Adavanced Elements Airvolution is what you want.
@@inneradventures hmmm, seems like the better option, especially if they produce a spray skirt for the Airvolution at some point. But I found your argument of 2 layers vs the single layer Sea Eagles very convincing. In any case, thx for your reply!
@@justinkorhammer4180AirVolution
Nice job. I've owned all three categories and have used them on rivers, lakes and ocean. It is important to keep an open mind, as you point out. I have a very high quality Sevylor now, which I got lucky to find, and for cheap. It's heavy, but well made and tough. I like it because it's easier to store than a hardshell, and it is versatile. I feel safe in white water (self bailing), flat water tracks reasonably well (it's a double) and on the ocean (unless a shark takes a bite out of it), because it won't sink. Generally speaking, however, I agree it's better to avoid Sevylor kayaks. I've destroyed many of them, and sometimes it was a life threatening experience when they failed. Advanced Elements also has a wide range in terms of quality. But they are a good company when it comes to customer care (as long as you survive using one of their crappy models). Overall, you've provided a lot of good advice, and it's nice to be able to share your videos. Thanks.
Which Sevylor do you have? My Colorado isn't that bad. But I usually use my Innova Swing 2 or Old Town Twin Otter in the ocean.
A small thing about dragging the kayak on the ground. This just happened to me, a small pebble got into the skeg attachment, so I couldn't get the skeg fully in. This was just before I wanted to put the boat in the water. It took me about half an hour to get the damn thing out, and a lot of sweat. This was on an Intex Explorer 2, but it might happen to many other models.
good infos for beginners. here in europe gumotex sells very well, i tested the safari model and then bought the tandem twist. it's made of neoprene wich is more durable than pvc, 13kg and 80cm wide, it paddles better than many sot kayaks. before buying it i tested a dropstich boat but was heavier and bigger, also it sits higher in the sea so was more sensible to the wind, the bow tried to go over the waves rather than through them so didn't track too well. i also used an aqua marina, a bit slower than the gumotex but lighter and cheaper. fancy neoprene kayaks here are the grabners, they look cool but are also a bit heavy and expensive
The Safari and Twist are actually Innova designs right? Well regarded.
Wow, and thanks, I’ve been thinking of upgrading to a newer design for fishing trips in Idaho and Montane and your suggestions help quite a bit.
Great review! I've had a similar journey, starting with Advanced Elements and getting frustrated with the cloth exterior, soft bottom, bladders that get out of alignment, trying a couple of other ones and eventually graduating to a category 3, Aquaglide Chelan. I love the drop stitch floor and the quick and easy drying and ability to easily wipe clean the entire kayak. Now I'm intriqued by the Sea Eagle RazorLite...
Yep. My wife wanted to go out with my daughter and I (hard shell old olympics kayaks) but was afraid of rolling... So i bought her a Sterns (Advanced Element really) single seater.
She loved it, but i despised it. It'd take a day or two to fully dry outside with repeated towling. A week in the garage. It sags so badly in the seat it was like sitting a hammock. The floor used a different sized Boston valve and couldn't be inflated tight enough to hold a strong shape, but it did soften the butt blow of a passing rock.
I found if you put a sturdy fabric over EPS beach boogie board in the bottom instead of that inflatable floor, the boat is much better.
However it is really just a very outdated boat design.
After 10 years, my wife finally got brave enough to paddle a hard shell. Mostly because I told her to blow up and dry the boat herself.
Really interesting stuff I have bought a type two kayak and yeah the drying is a pain takes long time, the water condensates and then precipitate creating water drops in the edges of the seams, you need to use a towel to effectively remove the water
I am so impressed and you saved me from buying an advanced element kayak
Thank you and you are so thorough and knowledgeable
Sheila Vancouver BC Canada
So many new kayaks out now 2 years later. Maybe a new update video?
Yeah, working on it
@@inneradventures
we are waiting...
we need your opinion now...
Covid 19 has made prices go up! My Sea Eagle was $295 seven years ago. It was worth every penny. Great material and stable. I see several when Austin. No, it's not like my my $3,000 Hobie kayak, but it doesn't weigh 81 pounds and I do not have to put it on my trailer. People have owned them for over 20 years. You can always return it with their six month return.
2020 was crazy year for any boat. Yacht, seadoo, kayak, canoe. Because of covid lockdowns. I ordered a carbon fibre, kevlar blend canoe, Nova Craft, blue steel prospector 16. Made in Canada, Weighs 48 lbs. and had to wait a year.
You should check out out light canoes, they carry 1100 lbs, stable and as light as a kayak, and quick. You can use your kayak paddle like I do. Best of all they are made here in North America, not Korea or China. Also they hold value and last a life time.
Thanks for the update video! I bought a brand new Intex Challenger K2 and got it at a fantastic price. I've been out 4 times so far...3 times on a canal (solo) and once on a lake. The lake trip, I had another person with me. So far, I'm happy. I may upgrade to a drop stitch, but I'll see. Thanks again for your excellent advice! Happy kayaking!
Aileen, would you mind sharing how much it cost? That would help me look for one. thanks!
@@abbyyanow5811 I bought it on Amazon UK and after VAT and conversion from UK pounds to Euro it was €100. I've been out 5 times and plan to head out this week too. My friend has the Intex Explorer and my other friend got one from Lidl or Aldi. The Challenger out performed the two of them which I was surprised as I thought the Explorer was meant to be better.
I think part of the reason for the price inflation is that lots of people suddenly have lots of spare time and messing about in boats has suddenly become a possibility rather than a vague idea. But, like bikes, the manufacturers have sold out of this year's stock and cannot easily swing their manufacturing back into action at short notice. I have seen a story that there are only a handful of factories in the world which make dropstitch boats and they are all in China.
I really appreciate your honest and thorough reviews.
Excellent videos Jack! - Thank you very much for sharing all of your knowledge and expertise about inflatable kayaks!
Another great and useful video Jack! I ended up buying a kokopelli packraft after looking at kayaks for about 5 months. Loved that you touched on them in this video, hope you get one to try out soon. Definition not as good for flat water but a good option for moving water.
My general sentiment is also that packrafts more durable (I might be wrong). I find that common review complains for category 3 are seam failures instead of punctures. I find that rarer with TPU packrafts that are typically heat welded instead of glued.
Wow. Where am I, an honest review? Good job. Never let ego get in the way of an honest review.
One of the most useful videos on kayaks I have found.
Thank you for the videos. I'm getting back into kayaking after selling my last one 9 years ago. Keep up the good work.
I watched your first video, super helpful. Best video on UA-cam. Based on that I went group 3. Otherwise it would have been group 2. Between summer demand and covid disruption of supplies very hard to find almost any for sale. Ended up with an Aquaglide Chelan 140. They went out of their way to call various dealers to find one for me. Standard side tubes but drop stitch floor. Seems very nice. I could not find any longer tandems, but maybe that’s ok. My wife and I are only 5’8 and 5’3 and fairly light. But as you say it’s kind of a 1.5 person kayak. But it holds us, fishing gear, cooler. But won’t work if we ever want to go camping. But it’s a good size for solo kayaking, and we have plans for solo trips already. Again, your advice was super handy. If we really get into to it maybe buy a single fully drop stitch, like a sports car to go with the mini van. I know which one my wife will take. 🤣
Just wanted to follow that my young adult son and I proved me wrong! We went on a great three day lake camping and fishing trip. Did require using light, but not hyper-light camping gear. Sixty liter backpacks lashed to fore and aft decks, cooler in the middle, seats as far as possible to front and rear. He is 5’9” and I’m 5’8”, and it was a little tighter than optimal with the cooler. But not bad paddling three plus miles up and across the lake to an island all to ourselves. We were loaded right to the claimed 400lb limit, and it seemed we could have added more. So, while the 155 would have been better, this worked!
Still doing good? I'm thinking about getting the aquaglide chinook
@@rockymountaintrout2689 Still working just fine, holding up really well. Got out quite a bit last summer and fall. The 140 works well single or tandem. Would consider the 155 if you were using exclusively tandem and you have long legs, or if tandem and you want more room for gear on camping trips.
@@rodc4334 were doing tandem but I'm a kid so I'm only 5'6" and my dad is only like 5'10" so hopefully well be fine
@@rockymountaintrout2689 I’m 5 9, wife 5 3, works well. Son also 5 9 and we packed it for camping and while tight, worked ok. You should be fine. I hope you and your dad enjoy the boat.
Excellent video pal, very good points made here and so relevant for someone like myself looking for a kayak to use both on canal, lakes and calm shores for fishing a sightseeing. Inflatables have major advantages over hard shell, and the thought of having to transport, own and store and move a hardshell has put me off for years. I've looked at inflatables in the past only to come across huge entry level ones that I wouldn't trust when at sea. Love the videos mate, pretty set on the intex excursion pro. I found one for a under £100 delivered to I'm from America Cheap price on an intex page but haven't received it as of yet. Fear I may have fallen for a scam or they are reluctant, or unable to send. But will take this up with my bank soon to retrieve money.
Cant resist to comment. GREAT REVIEW! 99% aggree on everything said. My only objection is footrests importance.I believe a proper footrest is really helpfull for efficient paddling. Pls carry on your reviews.
Thanks Jack for all the details , and Category 3 is definitely the way to go if you are in the $1,000 or so range. I am going to go with the Razor R1 Ultra since it has the drop stitch floor I fell in love with, with the Navarro, but the Navarro I received had quality issues and needed to be sent back. My gain in fact. Since I think a great tracking kayak is the way to go after playing around with a Deschutes 110 for a while, that my wife still loves. Till she tries the Razor I guess? :)
The Razor R1 Ultra is the one I'm currently looking at too. They have free shipping to Canada. Have to buy pump and paddle separately. Price is competitive. Looks all around impressive. PS - did you end up getting it? If so, have you used it ?
@@Em-mr6wuyes I bought the razor and love the way it tracks and dries out. A great quality inflatable.
Love your videos Jack. Your humour is gold and your advice is platinum. I was about to buy an advanced elements for the exact reasons you describe in review one. I'm hoping this is a hobby the whole family will enjoy (and yes we're carrying our kayak by bike! ;).. But drying the AE would be a total put off! Your advice to start entry and go from there made me more confident to pick up an on special Intex Excursion Pro. Your comments at 16.30 almost had me spitting whiskey. You've a great philosophy on the world and to turn around your usual sign off, if you're ever in Aotearoa/New Zealand, we'd love to offer you.. I'd like to say bed, but at least dinner and a camp site.
Dean,
Thank you so much for your encouragement!
I happen to be in New Zealand now and would love to find someone who has a kayak to get on a water here.
Voice of reason. Well said J Baikoff!
I truly appreciate the information you share. I learned a lot and can make an informed decision. Thanks.
Great reviews. Just bought sea eagle razor light. I so much enjoy activity on water, that this can not be a bad buy. Don't give a crap about brand, just about quality.
Sea Eagle has been around for generations!
Thank you so much for the very informative videos . You have certainly done your homework in helping to make buying a inflatable kayak an easier choice for us all .
Could you evaluate Saturn inflatable products, please?
I'm doing my homework and will be buying my first kayak and you info. Is valuable,thanks!!!
First off honda is the best so you can admit it, you seem like a very smart fellow 😉
The sevylor ranger is a great boat intek I had a bad experience with but I will go with decathlon itiwit next time getting good reviews
Thank you for addressing weight distribution. I'm 6"4 and weigh 300lbs. I destroy mountains hiking and climbing and swim between islands that take 2hrs but that is following my friends in kayaks. Tried to explain to my girlfriend why I'm technically overweight.
Thank you for all of this- and the previous video- so helpful.
Good video. I especially liked the part about the paddles. I have used a Intex K2 Explorer and Sea Eagle 370 with the paddles that come with them. The K2 Explorer is great for the price ($100 or less), however that is about it. The paddles are TERRIBLE (too short). The K2 is also really slow. It is annoying how it doesnt have 3 boston valves (the floor uses a large opening which doesnt take long to inflate). I use the Sea Eagle paddles with the K2 now when I go out with my family. The Sea Eagle 370 is much larger than the K2, however it is also a lot more expensive. It really can take two adults as opposed to the K2 which is fine for an adult and a child. I purchased a Sea Eagle 380x which I will be getting soon. I chose it due to the space, drop stitch floor, durability, and ability to go up to class 4 white water ( I will mostly stick with class II-III though). I also agree that a inflatable paddle board is great to hang out with in the water. My kids love going on it and using it as a platform. They are also pretty fast (or maybe anything seems fast compared to the K2...).
I agree about what you said about the k2. for me the paddle lenght was ok but they are flimsy as a hot-dog sosage. we went on river trip 2 guys on the boat and the front legroom is a joke. but i am still happy about the boat.
You won’t regret the 380x, I upgraded from the intex excursion pro and was hesitant due to the price difference but after the first paddle I wouldn’t go back.
I bought my Aquaglide Columbia XP because I liked the colorway and construction. I am know having problems with the company because they don't make replacement parts for their kayaks!
Another home-run informative video on inflatables. Keep up the good work, and looking forward to more! I just noticed Kokopelli now has a line of inflatable kayaks on their site, so that would be interesting to look at.
I have spent 5 years open ocean kayaking in an inflatable. My Razorlite has performed well and has been stable the whole time. I have kayaked year round, in mild chop, in the wind, in current and a combination of all of that with no issues. The only complaint has been its propensity to weathercock.
After watching your videos i did some research on what was available and i came across a fully dropstiched 2 person kayak on ebay by a company called f2, after doing some research on the company found out they had been making inflatables for years and they are a good brand so i decided to get it! It was only £640 delivered from eastside sports, its great we paddled around brownsea island in Poole at the weekend about 5 miles i can't recommend this kayak enough check it out
Would love to hear more of your thoughts about packrafts. These were what caught my attention even before inflatable kayaks...
I talked about them briefly and am planning on making a small video on them. I don't have much experience, but if you are crossing a waterway while backpacking - they are great.
Even a cheap one does ok on wild water...rivers class 1,2. ...i never use them on flat water, they are to slow....wild water... Switserland, Rhine valley, austra...Lech, Belgium...Ardennes... Forget the hard kayak, travel for 800 miles with that thing on your roof...takes a lot more fuel...
Thanks for your effort and giving information about kayaks it was very timely as we are looking for an inflatable kayak thank you
Thanks for all the great info Jack. Much appreciated!
We've been kicking around buying for a while now...and after a great day on the water yesterday with family and their kayaks, we spent much of today shopping online. And you called it... almost nothing is available and what is, is double or triple retail. So we wait..Ha.
What do you think about what you've seen on the AirVolution2? Sorta makes me wanna wait till its out. ..and splurge!
Oh dratts, I was hoping to hear more about the all drop stitch kayaks, loved your first video... moved me straight up the line. No point in investing in 1or 2, I have a garage full of 1-2 toys... looking for something I won’t be replacing... looking forward to your review on all drop stitch kayaks ( not just the bottom)
Here in the states we don't have a large variety of drop stitch kayaks due to patent issues.
the weight capacity is part of why I'm looking at a sea eagle; I'm upper 200s myself. And their 330 is rated to 500 which is a nice margin. The intex ones are mostly all rated to low 200s until you get to the tandems.
Hi Jack, love your kayak video's. You've helped me a lot in getting closer to purchasing my next Kayak, let me ask... in this video, you mentioned a generic to the Sea Eagle RazorLite 473rl, that looks so much like it, that it could even be made by same company, which leads to my budget of being a third cost less. Please tell me that name again? TIA Greg.
Thanks again Jack, incredible how much in common the AIRCANOE CRUISER 470D DROPSTITCH is alike the Razorlite 473rl . Materials, measurements but cost is just under 600 at one site. I believe you dubbed it the generic of Razorlite 473rl . your not kidding. have a great day.
One thing I have not heard you discuss is width. I am not a big guy, our first Advaced Elements kayak was very narrow and our hips constantly hit the sides. After a 1/2 hour, we needed to be done (I have a 33" waist). I learned this is a common problem with inflatables. The dimensions can be every bit as important as these other issues.
Hmmm... Weird, I have never experienced not heard this before. Sounds like our waists are similarly sized and I never noticed it in any kayak. But yes, fully dropstitch kayaks have a big advantage in this area.
@@inneradventures we had an advanced elements island voyager 2.
Category ones = not seaworthy.
Noted! Thanks for a part 2 I didn't have to wait for. 😂 I'll be subscribing for sure!
Jack, your videos are very informative. Great job sir.
Ha I have a cheap Sevylor that I've had for years and have really enjoyed it, took it on many trips even a couple of airplane trips. I think it's called a Tahiti Vista or something it's got a clear bottom which is also kind of cool. It's fun and it got me out on the water for very little money. I kind of abused it but it only had maybe one or two small leaks that I fixed. It's slow and it does not track well. It actually tracks a little better with two people. But not much! If it only had a skeg I bet it would be pretty good but it doesn't. Don't buy it! I've paddled really nice light hard shells and even built my own wood kayak from CLC but I still have a soft spot in my heart for the old Sevylor. I just think it's funny how even a really lousy kayak is fun and worthwhile. My advice is to go buy a cheap one but make sure it has a skeg and you will have a blast for very little money indeed. And get a double for goodness sake they're very fun even if only one of you is into paddling. It's not a serious boat but most people just want to go out in the water and have fun. And you can put it in the trunk of your car even the tiniest car!
Unbiased and useful content. Thank you!
Hi Jack. You are so kind to offer so much information and I thank you. I have never kayaked before and have already purchased the Sevylor K1 Quikpak, so I am stuck with it. I ordered an Origami Paddler from Kickstarter and am curious if you know about this one. They have begun manufacturing but I will learn to kayak with this Sevylor until mine is delivered.
It’s sad that the idiots pick your video apart and you feel you have to correct any part of your professional wonderful first video. They’re jealous as none could do their own video so they think they look good criticizing yours.
In the current market selling a kayak is not hard, don't feel like you are stuck with a kayak.
Jack, I have a Point 65 Tequila modular kayak. I have an extra insert to convert this a two seater. The reason I bought this kayak was space consideration. I live in a flat, and drive a micro camper van. I added some mods (in the single configuration) to make it useful for fishing in the Clyde Estuary (salt water) in Scotland. I bought my kayak about 4 years ago, before inflatable kayaks had any traction in the UK. Have you considered doing a review on alternative kayaks to the inflatables that can still be stored in tiny spaces? Great video!
I've never really seen a modular kayak in real life. They seem to be very uncommon around here. But the folding ones are becoming significantly more popular now and I'm hoping to get more experience and make some videos about them
@@inneradventures Thank you for responding Jack! Did you Google the Tequila kayak? I know you mentioned you usually kayak in fresh water lakes and such. In Scotland we have a lot of sea around us. A folding kayak would be a death trap in salt water. The only reason I looked at inflatables was to consider trading over to something even smaller than what I have now. But, I want a kayak that I can trust my life with. Have a great day!
Yes, I googled the Tequila kayak. I am curious about how secure are the connections between modules.
What is the difference between salt and fresh water that would make folding kayaks death traps in your perception?
This video (and the last one) are awesome. Really well balanced on the subject. I’d just transcribe what you said last time and this one into a book.
Thank you.
Someone did the transcribing for you:
paddling.com/learn/everything-ive-learned-from-40-inflatable-kayaks
@@inneradventures - I hope you get royalties, your critique seems very thorough and honest.
Not from that article, they just wrote down my words and published it.
@@inneradventures - Well, I hope you get some sort of payoff from it!
I think it bumped the views of my video, so I'm not complaining.
Jack, you are a God among men. May you live forever.
You have quite a way of humbly complimenting people. :-D Thank you. I assume that means you liked the video.
Recently I've discovered some Russian manufacturers that combine the cat. 3 inflatable kayaks with a rigit aluminun tube frame that goes along the keel and has several ribs. The sit is also attached to the frame - so the tracking and the speed approach ones of the rigid kayak. I was surprised how well it actually performed. Those kayaks are already sold in Europe under the Nortik brand (currently for an insanely hight prices), but I hope that you'd have them also on the US market soon to try out :)
Interesting. They seem to be a knockoff of Oru brand kayaks.
No, it is different. I think it's more of a heritage from the Taimen kayaks - the skin on frame kayak of the soviet era in which you can disassemble the frame and fit all the pieces into a backpack. Here, most of the frame is replaced by inflatable elements. Google for the Scubi xl kayak or the russian name "Шуя".
That looks quite interesting. I haven't seen anything like this in real life. I'd love to test it out. Looks fast.
This is a great video. I have a sea eagle 370, but the yaw makes me nervous I'm going to tip all of the time and I usually just rent. I'm questioning figuring how to fit a hard kayak in my car or drop stitch. I feel like the sea eagle was a waste of 350 at this point.
We enjoy our Advanced Elements tandem. The drying has been a non-issue for us as we just leave it out overnight after use. We also considered sea eagles but at the time of purchase there were many negative reviews about them splitting seams that scared us off. We may try them in the future but again, our AE has met out needs and people ask is about it everywhere we go.
I heard it was a great kayak for kids, dogs and extra gear. At 15 feet it is a true tandem and you can paddle with one person, although it's a lot more work.
Adding a backbone or drop stitch floor really adds to the rigidity, and tracking of the kayak. The drop stitch would really help with dog nails.
Jack, thanks for the informative videos. I’ve been researching DS inflatibles for some time. You’re info is helpful in the mix. 2+ months after release there are still no published “real” reviews of the Advanced Elements Airvolution 2. Have you anyone else you’ve spoken with had a chance to see one, test one or form any opinions? No hard recommendations asks - just “word on the street” type stuff.