Check out my new UA-cam channel! www.youtube.com/@KenWhitingAdventures is now the place to find all my paddling adventure videos, while PaddleTV will focus on Instruction and Gear Reviews.
I just bought the Sea Eagle 393 after your high recommendations. Your review was spot on and I am very pleased with my purchase. Thanks for your expertise.
We've had two of these since 2015. First, the original model and now, the newer, updated model. The newer one is quite a bit more "beefy", weighing in about 5 pounds heavier and has the built-in footrests as the one in this video. I cannot say enough about this kayak AND Sea Eagle for their customer service. We live full-time in our motorhome and to have these safely tucked away in a basement bin everywhere we travel is the best. The video talks about the initial stability and while it does feel a bit tippy when you first enter, let me assure you (even you beginners) that it is VERY hard to flip. I wanted to practice reentries when we first got them so I put it in my swimming pool. You cannot believe how hard I had to try to flip the thing over. You would have to be in some really rough water to tip this thing and that's not the market for this kayak to begin with. Being in an open kayak without having to "sit on top" is wonderful, especially when we're in canals of Florida with gators only a few feet away! If you get one, do yourself a favor and spend the extra $200 on the battery powered pump. Makes the startup that much quicker and easier.
Same material as the original, but the "beefy" is when they went to a heavier designed foot pegs on rails. First version was a pvc tube. If hauling dogs, kid(s), gear, cameras, due to it's not very stabile design, you will regret it. It's a kayak you must pay attention to while paddling, especially in eddies where you can/will get spun around and over you go.
Hence the replies that slows the decision making . One speaks of even for beginners one will quickly adapt and the difficulty in flipping and the next warns of going over . Oh how I wish there were places to try various kayaks and then buy on the spot.
@@Joe-xq1nt I'm in Fl and we go to Rum Island and they do just that, my 16 YO was treated like royalty, on the Santa Fe they said 'Take it for a half an hour or so" two or three times till she bought a real nice (BOTE) stand up board. So they do exist. ;
@@Joe-xq1nt Exactly. What is considered tippy? What is considered stable? I suspect it is somewhat more stable than a narrow hardshell kayak. I could also be way off base on that assessment just from watching countless reviews. Who do you believe? I tend to trust this fellow in the video but what constitutes an "intermediate" or a "beginner"? Some people are very athletic & have a natural ability to take to most anything. Others are terribly awkward & lack confidence. I just know that if I purchase a $400-$500 inflatable kayak I will be regretting it & wishing I got something better in a month but I won't know until I try a bulbous wide slow kayak vs this ridged sleeker one in the video. @bailey9r replied to you about a place in Florida where you can try out kayaks. Sadly the majority of the North American market does not live in Florida. Some of us even live in smaller cities & towns in Canada where there are no options to try before you buy.
Only thing I'd like to add to this kayak is, some hook fastening points, to hook in a cargo net. Wouldn't have to worry about the possibility of your rucksack etc, falling out of the boat if overturned.
The foot rest design of this boat is the key factor contributing to its stability. With feet being stuck at both sides of the boat, your body and feet will form a stable triangle structure against the boat, this is the reason that this narrow boat can have its good stability. Aqua Marina Tomahawk boat is too unstable as some of its customers complained just because it does not have such good foot rest design .
I too have been taking hard look at this boat. When I last checked, sold out until Sept. 2021. One thing that was not mentioned is that Sea Eagle offers a money back satisfaction warranty unless they have recently changed their policy. I have no idea how difficult/easy a return would be. Definitely a quality company. Thanks for a great review!
I only go kayaking 3-4 times a year. Always been a rental. Transporting is the issue. 2k for a roof rack for my jeep, storage at home another issue so inflatable was my only easy option. What I found being a novice with the 393. You can flip it easssssy. You can also have no issue feeling very stable as well. It’s also very easy to right the kayak if you do flip and get back in. I’m 67 and it’s no issue. I practiced it a few times in my pool and was surprised at the ease to get back in. The cons imo are getting the beast back in the bag! Holy crap what an undertaking! No one shows that in their review. Also you’ll hear it said how you can throw it in your trunk. Yeah ok but that’s all you’ll get in there so if you need two kayaks the trunk is no option, when you read it fits in a back pack get the idea of a typical back pack out of your noggin! Ok it’s big and not all that light when it’s on your back. Ok maybe if your a weight lifter and 40 years old. Now for storage. Do you live where it’s hot. If you do this need to be stored in your home at room temp, not in your garage or shed. Not my opinion, that’s direct from Sea Eagle. I really like mine but I wish hard shells were an option for me. I think this is the next best thing but it’s not the all to end all by any means. I really wish when these reviews were done they were complete. An unbiased review that’s not complete is just that, Not complete . But that’s what I think we dreamers need.
Very informative. We have a Dave Scadden inflatable, which is a great boat, but it is so wide it's like paddling your sofa. I like the narrower design and will do more research on this. Thanks.
Great job on the review Ken! I really enjoy watching your videos, you do a great job! I just received a sea eagle razorlite via UPS today. I’m going to be doing a review of it as well on my channel. I normally paddle rigid hull touring kayaks, but I want something more portable for traveling. Safe paddling!
Well, Ken, I bought the Razorlite 393 and I LOVE it. It had her maiden voyage last weekend, and it was incredible. A few thoughts: I didn't find it nearly as "tippy" as I expected from how much people were commenting on that. I wonder if people aren't bracing their knees? The moment I took a knee away from the side, it felt "weebly" (as in Weebles wobble but they don't fall down--did I just date myself?), but not in danger of tipping--or even like it might. The footrests are a game changer (even though the rods are the devil), and the main reason I went with the RL The seat wasn't exactly plush, but still better than my hardshell. I was able to paddle farther and faster than in my hardshell (which isn't the best to begin with, but still better than many I've tried). Better yet--so much less fatigue. The RL slices so nicely through the water, but it definitely doesn't turn on a dime. LOL I was able to zoom in (as much as my ancient phone can) and get a decent picture of a big-horned sheep up on the cliffs without constantly using the paddle to straighten myself out (and fearing I'd drop my phone). Rock steady! I have to work on being more efficient with set-up and tear down, but that will come with time. Happy paddling!
That's so great to hear! You're totally right that it's not a tippy kayak, unless you compare it to some recreational kayaks, which are like floating docks. But, if you compare the 393 to a higher performance sea kayak, then there's nothing tippy about it! I had the same challenge at first with the rods for the footrests, but I totally agree... love having real footrests in an inflatable kayak. Stoked to hear you've found your 'happy kayak' :) Enjoy paddling over the Holidays!
Here in Europe we have decathlon inflatable kayak something similar. Portability is 100% the key factor for me, it fits in the boot of my small citroen car
Take a free online US Coast Guard Safety Course for canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddling (SUP): cms.americancanoe.org/Online-Courses/Present/Paddlesports-Safety-Online-Course
Hi again, Ken! I've been spending a lot more time in the 393RL (and even added my new rescue pooch to the mix). He's only 13.5 lbs, but when he moves from side-to-side, the boat registers that movement, but again--no fears of tipping. In fact, he lost his balance out on the bow once day and fell in. When I leaned over to grab the handle on his life vest, that secondary stability kicked in, and I could just focus on getting Henry back in the boat without any concerns that I'd tip. I still haven't managed to get the foot pegs out and install the new ones, but I've made some protective sleeves for the foot pedals to prevent them from damaging the boat while in storage. The one thing I would say that is the biggest drawback is the seat. The back is nice and supportive, but after 2 hours (and I'm usually out for 6+ hours with a break in the middle), the seat is downright uncomfortable. I might as well be sitting on a brick. In all the reviews you've done over the years, can you think of a seat that would work in the 393RL that is more comfortable (and has similar rigging)? I've tried adding 1" foam padding and that does help a little, but it rolls up and is a pain in the butt (literally and figuratively). I don't want to add too much height for fear of throwing of my center of gravity. Would love to check out any seat suggestions you have. In fact, it's the seat that's actually making me consider returning the 393RL.
Great to hear you're enjoying it! As for getting a more comfortable seat, or making the seat more comfortable, I think it's worth trying an inflatable seat cushion. I've never actually tried it in a kayak but I've thought about it a few times. There are many to choose from that are designed for sitting around camp, if you don't have a camp chair, but want something so you're not sitting directly on the ground. Here's a link to one: bit.ly/3vDlBVw
@@PaddleTV Thank you so much for the suggestion. I actually looked at that one, but wasn't sure if it was padded enough. lol I'll give it another look. Have a fabulous day!
@@PaddleTV Actually the only problem I had was with the little slot and slot key (that is connected with heavy duty string) that locks the skeg in place. The string came loose as I was pulling the key out and it dropped in the water. Fortunately I found it....twice. Then I added a second safety string.
I have a Fast track about 10 yrs old,too and I just bought the explorer. Never had trouble with the skeg. You can always just buy a new one if you did. They are inexpensive.
@@PaddleTV Also note Ken, both me & Kayak Cliff feel the skeg is NOT needed on the Razorlite except in extreme conditions with a strong cross wind. We both almost never use it, and use our Razorlites frequently. It also tracks extremely well, with no skeg. I love the ability to paddle the shoreline down to a couple inches of water, and skim over the rocks with no fear of the skeg hitting them. And if you did break the skeg, it's $30 to replace. I bought mine new opened package missing the skeg. Not a single time did I wish I had bought it. But I have it if I ever really need it.
The fin is very strong. Yesterday I had to beat mine severely with a rock to get it out since sand had locked it in the slot. Seaeagle sells spares in different sizes anyway. I have their magnificent 300x which will surf and autobail as advertised.
I have owned single and double sit on top kayaks and conventional molded kayaks and they are heavy to lift onto a roof rack and take space to store at home. My double hard kayak weighed 90 lbs and the roof rack on my truck was 7 feet above the ground. The Sea Eagle double weighs 45 lb and the single weighs 35 lb so no issues with carrying them around. The Sea Eagle Razorlite also have a skeg mount that allows attaching a Bixby electric drive motor in seconds. With a hard shell kayak one can bolt on a frame and add a trolling motor and a battery but the Sea Eagle approach is cleaner and more elegant. I used a jet ski trailer to transport two Hobie kayaks to boating spots but being able to put a Sea Eagle double in the cargo area of a small SUV or in the bed of a pickup truck is far easier to manage and no worries about an expensive boat getting stolen while one is at a restaurant or staying overnight at a hotel or B&B.
I can verify to the tippyness. I used mine for the first time yesterday. I owned a sit-on-top kayak in Hawaii, and this is less stable. It really moves once you take a few strokes, but it's going to take some getting used to.
I noticed it too trying my Razorlite for the first time yesterday. It's the same as a typical hard shell kayak. For people looking for a kayak that is incredibly stable, check out Sea Eagle's 435ps Paddleski. The most stable & versatile kayak in the world. Sadly they discontinued them last year due to government regulations on the materials used. I was so concerned about my favorite kayak, I bought a 2nd one as a spare. Sea Eagle just came out with a replacement called the 437 Paddleski. It looks like a good boat, but it's no longer categorized as a kayak. It's wider and has larger tubes. It motors twice as fast if your using a 5 or 6HP motor (impractical for us small car owners vs my 3HP Torqeedo 1003s). Many suspect the 437ps will not paddle nearly as well, but you can paddle it as a kayak as shown in images. The manual comes with a warning that it's intended to be used with a motor, but can be paddled. The 435ps was sold to the kayaking market, and at least half the people never had a motor or sail rig on theirs, but I love motoring, sailing & paddling the 435ps. The 437ps would be fine if you want to paddle in calm conditions, and don't need to go many miles paddling without a motor installed just in case you need it, but it's aimed at the fishing market now.
@@PaddleTV Haha... 4 months later... actually... the sea eagle fishing 350fx looks like my first choice... and if I win the lottery I'll get this one too. I like to paddle and fish. As for the one I was considering, well, it got crossed off the list because it was a bladder/skin unit. I'll be on the road living out of a pickup truck and small camper for a couple years. From all I've read on this topic, Sea Eagle appears to be the hands down winner in the intermediate price category.
As an avid seakayaker, I bought the Oru Coast XT, due to it being more like a traditional hard-chined greenland kayak, but I really came close to buying the Razorlite. Some folks in my local "inflatable kayak" meetup group have these.
@@PaddleTV I like it. It tracks, edges, and, overall behaves very similarly to my 17' touring boat, a Pygmy Arctic Tern, but it's 10lbs lighter, and folds up for easier transport. My main gripe is the stock seat isn't comfortable and the neoprene bow/stern fairings are blunt and plows water. The glide isn't as efficient as I had hoped. It gets a lot of attention when assembling it on the beach.
I agree that foot pegs are essential. When I see a world class paddler like Ken in action, I notice that they really bring their legs into the game. I didn't see that here. I *did* notice considerable yaw under fairly mellow forward strokes. That thing was wagging it's tail more than any 12+ footer I've ever seen! (presumably with skeg affixed) Ken's experience speaks for itself, and his reviews are top notch. $1000 can buy a much more suitable intermediate+ boat in my opinion. I left this review with the feeling that the featured boat will appeal to a very narrow slice of the paddling community. Thanks Paddle TV for such wonderfully produced content. I truly enjoy every episode!
But can you get a better value in an inflatable or folding boat? For those of us who don’t value the ability to break down the boats, we have to be careful about our biases. I drive thousands of miles with the boats on the roof of our wagon each year. I have storage space. Honestly, I’ve made home and car decisions around paddling needs. I can totally see how other folks might put a lot of value on a boat being able to store in a closet and travel in the car.
@@nunyabidness3075 Agreed. These come at a premium but for those of us who don't have sufficient room at our house or on/in our vehicles, they seem to be a good compromise that gets similar performance to a hardshell. I have ordered a couple that will hopefully arrive before summer. Hoping I made the right decision. Thanks to the channel for a recent review as most others are from 3-4 years ago.
@@nunyabidness3075 I believe that there's a place for blow-ups & folders. Ken delivered a straightforward, no nonsense presentation which spotlighted a couple of concerns for me regarding intermediate+ paddlers. I immediately spotted a lack of any driving of the legs. Intermediate+ paddlers are encouraged to get their legs into the game. Ken's as good a paddler as anyone could hope to ever be. This makes me wonder if he had to curtail his technique to avoid the squishing about and flexing of the foot rests. The waggy tail on a 12+ footer would satisfy very few intermediate+ paddlers in my opinion, which is based upon observation rather than bias. I didn't begin watching this review with any prejudice. In fact, with the slightly tippy initial stability coupled with solid secondary and painless storage... It would make a great spare boat for friends & family of a paddler with limited space. (have 'em edging in no time) There IS a market for it. Time will tell how large that market is...
Thanks Rick! You bring up a good point about showing more 'paddling' in these gear review videos, to get a better sense for how they perform. As for the foot pegs on this one... they're super solid. I wasn't using them while paddling and talking, because I had to paddle slowly to stay in pace with the camera boat, but when I was testing the kayak, I was definitely pressing pretty hard into the foot pegs with every stroke, and they were solid. I'll be sure to show more paddling in upcoming gear reviews!
I'll let you know when I find an inflatable or folding boat that provides the same value (portability aside) as hardshell kayaks. They're getting very close, but they're not quite there yet. I would continue to recommend a hardshell kayak over a packable kayak if storability and transportability isn't a primary need.
Just watched another video where reviewer said very little difference without the skeg, he never uses it. Also he showed stability was great by sitting crossways and dangling feet in water. He turned completely around to get to cooler behind seat. Seems pretty stable to me.
Great point Connie! I think it's a great idea to show more of the boats in action, and how they maneuver. I'm going to do more of that in future videos. Thanks!
well yesterday i took a turn up to the ramp a little bit too fast and almost fell in the water right by the ramp but i recovered fast. i didn't realize how fast of speed you can pick up on it ..i was trying to get momentum lol.
@@PaddleTV Agree. Please show entry and exit for lakes, ramps, etc. Also tip over re-entry. I would like to see how gear is stowed. It's a day use boat primarily but should accommodate water bottles and a jacket, I would hope.
What a great review! There aren’t many in-depth reviews on this boat like this so it was great to see it in action. I’m torn between this boat and the Aqua Marine Tomahawk. The Sea Eagle is twice the price, but is it twice the boat? Both seem to have plus points from just looking at them. It’s hard to see which is best without buying both 😫
Hey Ken, great video! I was recently in the market for an inflatable kayak and putting a list together (had a whole spreadsheet and everything). I wanted something fast but comfortable and this video really helped flagged the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393 as one to have a closer look at. After researching it more I fell in love and bought one. Just wanted to say thank you for the review and keep up the awesome work!
Happy I could help! Thanks for sharing this! I plan to keep doing lots more reviews next year... it's a great excuse to get out on the water and trying cool products! :)
A heads up for tall folks. I was excited about this boat, but at 6'5" and a 36" inseam I maxed out the footpegs and had to move my seat back which threw off the balance and subsequently, it tracked quite poorly. A great boat to consider, though if you're the right size.
@@outdoorbill6271 The quest continues. I have a tandem (Innova Sunny) that I use as a single, but it's a bit too much boat for quick maneuvering on fast water. The best set up I use is actually paddling with an inflatable paddle board, but sitting/kneeling. It's great for shallow rocky water and for photography and video here on the Potomac. Fortunately I have pretty flexible knees. A short clip: ua-cam.com/video/UGKCvlDLQBo/v-deo.html. Good luck! We're just over the line in terms of sizing.
@@jonathanfoust635 Hey thanks for getting back to me. I’ve only just started my search. It’s hard being a giant in a small man’s world but we can still dream. Lol
@@outdoorbill6271 Good luck! Accommodating a tall body definitely adds complexity to finding the right balance of weight, stability and maneuverability. If you find the right one, do let me know.
awesome review! Are you planning to review the Decathlon Strenfit X500 anytime? it literally looks like the closest an inflatable can come to a hard shell kayak! Keep up the great videos!
I am using for paddling & trolling the tandem version 473RL 3 years now and i'm very happy. Recommended inflatable. No flex brace option 3 years ago, I made a custom footplate for better performance. Some videos on my channel.
I also have a older version of the 473rl with the pvc pipe foot braces. They drive me nuts and I have been trying to devise a way to give better support to my feet! I looked at one of your videos but can’t make out what you fabricated. Any tips?
@@geoffreyderuntz5928 It is a piece of plywood attached with nylon cable ties on a pvc pipe. I am about to make a much better and sturdier foot plate pretty soon. I will upload a video when ready.
@@LJ-jq8og I cant tell as I havent paddled the 393. 473 tracks very well, I never use the fin provided. Probably 393 requires less paddling effort at lower speeds, becouse of less wetted surface area, thus less water friction. But I cant say how they compare at speeds above 3 miles per hour for a single paddler. I suggest asking Sea Eagle.
@@reallyhappenings5597 All based on the why you want one I suppose...what will you use it for...Lots of room in the 265 I hear. You use your kayaks much?
I have the explorer and have used a ton over my first year. I hit over 50 unique water bodies on it. I chose it for stability and for helping my wife to feel more comfortable. How does the razorlite compare having reviewed both especially for speed? I’m looking at the single person version this time. Also I’ve found the skeg on the explorer which is the same as the rl to be very tough. It really takes a beating hitting things, dragging on sand and rocks, and supporting the kayak out of eater.
I would like to see your review on the TuckTech folding kayak. It looks interesting, and sells for only $350. One of the most attractive things about it was the company's claim of setup time in as little as 1.5 minutes, but most user reviews seem closer to 5 minutes, and tear down time even longer than inflatables. I'd like to know how realistic that setup time is. I'd love to know how the TuckTech compares to my Razorlite 393rl, and also how the 20 lbs ORU Inlet compares to both.
The sea eagle skegs are next level tough. Don't really have to worry about them breaking. On my excursions this year between me and my friends, there have been 7 skeg/paddleboard-fin breaks, all of which have been non sea eagle. The sea eagle ones are way thicker and tougher, from experience
I bought a Tupelo 12 5 because of your review..... unfortunately my shoulders are damaged to the point where I can't get in or out of it very well... the jakson bite I got to go along with it is like paddling a dock around... so I think my next one will be the sea eagle... so I can just throw it in the jeep no trailer needled anymore
Please compare this directly to the Hobbie itrek. This is sleeker, but the hobbie is lighter with the mirage pedal drive with the kick up system and a rudder that easily flicks up out of the way. I'm undecided between these models.
I've been looking at the new 473rl for its storage capacity on multi-day trips but it seems like they don't make it compatible for a solo kayaker like the older model, which allows you to attach your seat more towards the center on solo trips and additional D-ring attachments specifically to attach footrests for solo. I would buy the 393rl but it definitely won't fit a 70L dry backpack.
I purchased a 473 rl about 2 years ago and it didn’t have the glued on adjustable footrests. My boat has straps that run through a short length of pvc pipe and clip to the d-rings on the boat sides. I don’t like the pvc pipe footrests because they lay on the floor and only one’s heel gets any purchase on it. The bright side is at least I can configure my boat for soloing.
I was glad to come across your video. I have been using a Tutjak sea kayak for 10 years now and just ordered one of these for solo outings on calmer waters. The carrying bag in your video wasn't available for purchase. I have a large nylon duffel bag with sturdy wheels that I'm hoping to use. Do you think that might be suitable? Any tips for packing?
I think the duffel bag should work. The kayak comes with instructions on how to best pack it. I think the biggest trick is to make sure you use a towel to dry it off well before packing it away.
Love your videos. What do you think of the Intex excursion pro k2. Have you review one as yet. Could not find if you did. I'm a beginner in the kayaking multiverse. Would like to use it every time we go rving. Once or twice a month.
Nice review Ken. Would you think the RazorLite would be capable on Class I and II rivers? I'd like something good for lakes and ocean but also capable on mild rivers and to load with gear for 2-3 night trips.
The 393 would definitely be 'capable' of Class 1 and 2 rivers, but it's definitely not the kayak's strength. It certainly has the capacity for the gear. It would be like taking a touring kayak into current, but without the benefit of thigh hooks. Totally doable, but make sure you rig to flip, because it is a real possibility.
Fantastic video. You're very good at this. Question for the expert: How does paddling this compare to paddling an ocean kayak? Something like a frenzy from Ocean Kayaks. I've paddled those boats as rentals and they're obviously not designed for touring. They're a bit of a dog on the water.
Thanks! The 393 is WAY faster and more fun to paddle than the Frenzy, although it is a flatwater kayak. You wouldn't want to take the 393 into rough stuff - like ocean surf - which you could do with the Frenzy. The trade off for speed of the 393 is that it's not as stable as the Frenzy. That's always the trade off though - you give up stability for speed.
@@PaddleTV Thank you very much. I plan on paddling on lakes and I'm looking at the Fast Track and the 393rl from Sea Eagle. Looks like the 393rl has better performance and learning how to balance in a narrower boat is probably better than settling for a slower speed. I don't need to stand up in the boat. Since you've paddled both what are your thoughts?
Really enjoyed your review. I found a great deal on a Razorlite 393RL from a 3rd party, brand new but missing the skeg and one of the side foot pegs/bars. Do you know if they are the same on both sides, or is there a left and right peg? It included the backpack, pump, and a left or right foot peg & metal bar. The tall back seat & paddle were missing, but I happen to have an extra tall back seat as I prefer the inflatable Deluxe seats on my other Sea Eagle kayaks. The idea of hard shell kayaking is appealing and there will be a time & place I'll enjoy that. This kayak I can also use to go kayaking with friends, where as my Paddleski will either be slower or way ahead with my Torqeedo motor. I also like the back pack idea so I can access remote areas by foot. As we're visiting the beautiful Onedia Lake, NY area at the moment, I'm quickly reminded why the Paddleski 435ps is by far my favorite kayak. My wind app says it was only a 5mph wind, but the lake clearly rough between power boats, and it's size of 50,894 acres wide open with nothing blocking the wind. The 3 times I've visited the area in the past year (yet to kayak it), it's way too rough for a kayak or even an inflatable kayak. I have a fleet of Sea Eagles. Only my Paddleski could reasonably comfortably handle a place like this using either my motor or full sail rig. We could paddle the calm areas if there are any. Our Paddleski, motor and tons of accessories fit in the trunk of any sedan, and the sail rig goes in a bag the size of a golf bag. The incredible Sea Eagle Paddleski is finally back on the market as of last week. The new model does paddle with a kayak paddle, but many of us suspect since it is a foot wider, it won't paddle as well as the focus is more it's improved ability to take an even larger motor and stand up casting for people that fish. I'd love to see your review on the brand new Paddleski 437ps. And I'd also love to see it compared to the 435ps which had been out for several years until spring 2020. The most versatile kayak in the world. The 435ps was categorized as a "kayak" by Sea Eagle. The 437ps that replaced it, is now under "boats" but does paddle as a kayak.
@@PaddleTV Some people have told me they prefer using the original PVC tube with rope or chain. Also easier to setup. It would cost $70 for a pair of foot pegs and the single metal bar missing, so I may try to make my own first. It actually paddled pretty well yesterday with no foot rest or skeg, which I also need.
Hi been kayaking a few times with rentals in Oahu, Hawaii (calm open ocean) and a few still lakes in California. Looking to get this Razor but also interested in knowing any other must and good to have items for a newer kayaker? Open to specific Brand or general recommendations. Your videos have been really helpful to narrow selection and definitely a subscriber!
Thanks for the review. Would the Razorlite be stable enough to use on the sea if it got a bit choppy? I was also considering their Fastrack kayak which doesn’t look as fast but maybe has more stability?
Yup. Good call. If you're an experienced paddler with good braces, the Razorlite could handle some choppy seas. But, the Fasttrack will definitely be more stable. I'll actually be reviewing the Fasttrack this spring, and I'm looking forward to it!
@@PaddleTV I agree, but much prefer the Razorlite. I paddle both. Love the Razorlite, not a fan of the Fast Track. I own 7 Sea Eagle kayaks, and paddle my friend's Razorlite.
Thanks for the information! Just curious, if I'm looking for a quality inflatable similar to this one, but as an inexperienced beginner, what would you recommend? Thank you so much!
This kayak is reasonable for a beginner, but yes, there are much more stable kayaks to choose from. Sea Eagle also has the 385 Fast Track. Although I haven't tried one yet, it looks like it could be what you're after. More stable, but still has some good performance. Here's a link to it: bit.ly/3eYJ8H2
Thanks for the video. Very well-presented and you stick to the subject. I do have a question. My background is paddling solo canoes. This boat looks very much like a solo canoe and I'm wondering if anyone has tried paddling this craft with a canoe paddle. I would be sitting, not kneeling, but I just like canoe paddles a lot more than kayak paddles. Any thoughts?
You could definitely do that. Although... you could also consider the Sea Eagle Travel Canoe. I just tested it (video coming soon) and I was really impressed with it. Bigger, more stable, real canoe seats... but it fits in a bag. But... if you're looking for something lower to the water that you can sit lower in, the 393rl is the ticket.
@@PaddleTV Thanks for the response. I'm glad you mentioned the seat height. I'm 72 and I find I have to be up off the floor of a boat a little to sit comfortably and paddle. The seat on that kayak looks low to me and I'm planning to use a boat cushion or something like that on the seat to sit on. If I'm too high stability will be reduced, so I'll have to find the right height. At 38"wide, the Travel Canoe would make me either sit off-center or lean way over to paddle from the middle seat position but it's probably stable enough that I could do it. I'd certainly be sitting higher.
We’ve been looking at the Oru Inlet and Beach LT for my wife and myself, respectively. She’s 5’2” / 130 and I’m 6’2” 275. I love this as an option to the Oru’s as I worry about durability, but the 17” interior width has me concerned. Sitting down, my hips are about 20” and I’m left wondering if the 17” inflatable will expand to accept my wider hips. Any thoughts?
Your concerns are totally legitimate. Talk to Kayak Cliff about it who had a couple higher end ORU's and switched to the Razorlite which he tells me he much prefers both for the durablity & the performance. Having joined an ORU group to learn about them and check them out, I've come to the conclusion that their primary market is woman who do not want to carry anything to heavy at all. The Inlet is about 20 lbs vs 35 for the Razorlite. That is a big difference. I even considered getting an Inlet to have something to take to remote ponds hiking, and now their far less expensive Lake model is even lighter. But....feedback makes me question durability of their products. Even the person running the group destroyed their ORU attempting a self-rescue practice. And if you flip an ORU, they often fill with water and can not be paddled back. And someone recently said the "Lake" is a disposable kayak and his broke very quickly. In the super light weight category, Aquaglide has a brand new 15 lbs inflatable. I still feel the Razorlite is better all around except the weight, and about $300 cheaper.I can deal with 35 lbs from the car to the water. So that's the real question for most people.
Would you still recommend the Sea Eagle RaxorLite 393 for extremely shallow water (without using the skeg)? The Russian River can go from 30 feet deep to lonog stretches of just 5 to 10 inches. Without a skeg, I'd float over most of the shallows, but with a skeg I'd have to get out and walk.
Hi, really like your reviews. I'm looking for a higher performance kayak ( I have a sea eagle 380x, as a workhorse, two up with wife, or fishing etc) . Narrowed my choice to razorlight 393rl, and the itiwit x500. Could you please answer three questions? How does the material thickness compare for both these? How do they compare speed wise? And how do they compare in wind, especially side wind?. Thanks in anticipation. Kev
I haven't tried the X500 yet, although they're supposed to send me one this summer to test. That being said, it would be hard to go wrong with the 393rl. They probably perform very similarly with a side wind... although that's just my best guess.
No, I'm pretty sure it doesn't have pressure relief valves. I just tested one that does though, which is fairly similar (video coming soon). It's called the Advanced Elements AirVolution. Nice boat! Not as fast as the Razorlite, but more stable.
I have owned a hard shell and a cheap inflatable kayak. gave up my hard shell bc of space and transport. switched to the cheap inflatable. I floated with my dog for about 3 years on and off, i even took it to mexico and got into the shark infested waters lol. just a little sagging but not a problem. i got the razorlite a month ago. after the second trip the bottom got scratches in a way that you would anticipate after years of use. i recall going over one rock which is expected when you are on the water. So one rock (round not pointy) caused 2 huge scratches? Now i feel like i am sitting on something really not durable. i tend to take care of my things so that they would last me longer. i don't know except for not using it what else can i do to minimize damage. the other thing i don't like is the metal on the foot rest. takes some strong fingers and i have to fight it to get it in. a guy NO PROBLEM. i had a guy put mine in when i got really frustrated. they could just engineer something that can be screwed in and out. you know like ikea does. other than that yes it is fast and tracks well they should make the skeg half the size so that you don't get stuck. that thing is too long. is it tippy? yes. you feel a little out of balance but with a lot of hip practice you get used to it. if you get big waves you won't be able to reach the valves at the end to let the water out. wish they had put some rings for putting a skirt on. other than that.... would i buy this again pbby not.
Question: I am looking at one now. Other than portability I just can't properly secure a hardshell my next largest or highest priority is speed and tracking. If those were your priorities would you buy one again? I'm not as worried about damage because where I intend to use it. Thanks.
@@chevyvantravel9735 So if I understand you correctly notwithstanding how expensive it is you feel (absent your damage issue) you liked it enough that you would buy another one ?
@@LJ-jq8og I would be conscientious about damage , but since you said you will be ok in that department, if i were looking for tracking and speed i would buy it again.
Does it seem feasible to just chill in it or even swim from it sometimes? I guess the fasttrack is a better choice, but this seems like a much more agile kayak. Thanks?
It would be tricky to get back into this kayak from the water, if you hopped off to go swimming. I would expect you'd need to get to shore for that, unless you've practiced it a bunch. Sorry... not going to test the reentry on this kayak! :)
If you need to just chill or even swim from it sometimes, then fast track is definitely your choice. I tried both, fast track and razor light. Love both a lot, but FT is more recreational type and pretty fast too. RL has amazing performance, but swimming from it may be challenging.
Good day, I just saw what seems to be a great deal on a new CORRAN WATERGLIDE KAYAK (similar layout to the kayak reviewed above). I have never heard of Corran or Waterglide. Furthermore, I can not find any information on the internet. Any thoughts you might have, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Peter
I don't know anything about that kayak, but I do know Corran, and he's always been an innovator in the paddlesports world. He's had a significant impact on the development of whitewater kayak designs over the past few decades. Of course, this doesn't mean the WaterGlide is a good kayak... but it comes from someone who is an expert paddler and boat designer.
I've kayaked a number of times, though I would not consider myself an intermediate. So would you NOT recommend this boat for someone who has moderate experience like me? I'm thinking long term... if I could buy just one kayak instead of buying an entry level, then buying another one later, could this one serve that purpose? I was also looking at the Sea Eagle 300x, but because the two are close in price, I wondered if the 393rl might be better to get. My primary use would likely be on the ocean. I'm 6'-3", 215 lbs. Thanks!
This kayak could be a great kayak for you to get (and grow with), as long as you're fine with having a kayak that doesn't feel ultra stable. The 300x would be good for playing around in ocean surf, but it will be WAY slow compared to the 393 - not good for flatwater. If you want something more stable than the 393, but that still has reasonable speed for paddling on the ocean, I think the 385 would be a better bet - although I haven't tried it yet. If you like the idea of having a faster/higher performance kayak, then the 393 is the ticket. Don't get me wrong... I'm not saying the 393 is super unstable... It isn't. It's reasonably stable. It's just not nearly as stable as most entry level kayaks, which are designed primarily for stability.
Hello Ken, ... and/or subscribers. Looking for some advice/suggestions/opinions. I am thinking of this kayak as a stepping stone to a surf ski. I am 60, no previous paddling experience. Plenty of triathlons. Bad knees hence the direction of paddling. This kayak is mentioned as being for intermediate +. That is not me, ... but I am prepared to put in the time on this unit as a "trial" before maybe/maybe not moving to a surf ski. I am in Hong Kong, so a surf ski purchase would also come with a club membership for storage. Not cheap. No storage at home. Hence the bonus of the storage with this. Mainly coastal in good weather. Occasionally traveling with it (airline pilot), when the occasion may permit. Lake Como. London Canals. Rhine. Lake Michigan. Boston. That is if travel opens up for Hong Kong. A bit stuck at the moment. Thanks in advance. Good health to all.
If you have your sights set on a surf ski, I think this would be a good stepping stone kayak. It's not that new paddlers shouldn't use it... it just needs to be accepted that the kayak isn't designed to be the most stable kayak. It's designed to perform. Another option would be the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite. It's an inflatable kayak that is designed for some performance. I can't tell you how it does yet, as I haven't tested it, but I will be testing it in about a month or two.
I’m trying to decide between the Airvolution2 and the Razorlite 473rl for my wife and I (plus a small 20lb dog). We are kinda beginners and would only use the kayak for day trips in good conditions on lakes, bays and Sea of Cortez etc. I’m leaning towards the 423rl as it has more space, better comfort and superior performance but was concerned about stability. Is the Razorlite 423rl going to be to unstable for us or will we learn to handle it as we get more experience?
Great question. This is a common question I get - Razorlite vs AirVolution. You really hit the nail on the head with the decision you have to make. Are you willing to give up some stability for performance? My feeling is this... if you are relatively athletic folks, then you'll be fine with the Razorlite. It's around 30" wide, which should be quite stable. If you're not athletic at all, then you might be better off with AirVolution. The good news is that if you're not happy with the decision you make, it will be very easy to sell that kayak for a good price and get a different one, as there is a huge market for second hand kayaks right now.
@@PaddleTV Also note...."Order a Sea Eagle today, and you'll get to try it for 120 days from the day you receive your boat, RISK FREE. If you're not totally happy with your boat, just return it in good condition for a full refund of your purchase price.". And also note, while other than the stability difference (which is not as bad as some say unless your a beginner or really out of shape), the Razorlite has a lot more pros than the AirVolution, and it's about $300 cheaper once you buy a paddle & pump for your AirVolution. Also a 3 year warranty vs a 1 year warranty. In an inflatable boat, the warranty matters more than some other products.
Any thoughts on whether the RazorLite 393 RL would be good for Lake Ontario (downtown Toronto)? I don’t have the room for a hard sided kayak, and am trying to decide between the 393 RL Sea Eagle and the 300 X Sea Eagle. The vast majority of my experience is in a sea kayak on the ocean in NS. Won’t be running rapids, but would like to be able to go out on windy days, as well as when the lake is flat.
The Razorlite would be good for Lake Ontario for sure. It's a wide open boat, and so it will fill with water if it's too rough out, but it will still float swamped. I think it would be a better choice for Lake Ontario than the 300X, unless your main goal is to surf the lake waves.
@@annegallop1100What has your experience with it been like long term? How's it handling on Lake Ontario? I'm also Toronto based, and just purchased this boat.
The 393rl is a little faster, but gives up some stability for it. They say it's for intermediate +, and I would say that's accurate, while the AirVolution would be great for any level paddler. That help?
I'm 6'2" with a 33-34" inseam. It's hard to tell from the video, but there was an additional 2" of footrest adjustment, and so I wasn't maxing it out. One of the nice things about this kayak, is that I didn't feel 'big' in it. My best guess... I think it could comfortably accommodate someone up to 6'5".
I tested the Tomahawk as well. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/e3jPbU_dPu8/v-deo.html. If I had to choose, I would go for the 393rl. Not a big difference between the two... I just remember feeling more confident in the 393rl. I would need to paddle both of them again to give you more details on why I felt that way... which could be a good comparison video... hmmm
@@PaddleTV It would, wouldn't it. :D Saw the video ofc, best review of a said kayak on the internet. I don't have much choice here where I live anyway, Tomahawk is the only full drop stitch option I have so I'll probably go with that since you're saying there's not much of a difference between the two, and I got the impression that RazorLite is the prime example of DS kayaks.
I've tried this boat, at least the tandem 473RL, and my initial impression was that unless someone was a very experienced paddler, they should not take this boat very far offshore even in the calmest weather. It is extremely unstable due to the overall design -- flat bottom and all drop stiched tubes -- has anyone thought about how difficult re-entry might be. You can tell from the video of this kayak, at least looking at it broadside, how unstable it is. I miss my Innova Helios II but alas Gumotex stopped making them.
I have a 473 rl (the tandem version of the 393) I use it in the ocean it has been to several islands. I drag it on shore with the skeg digging into the ground as well as pivot it on the skeg. the skeg has gauges in it but has never come off... even hitting rocks with it. What I am saying is it is a lot tougher than it looks.
My big question is: how is it that after 4+ years, this seems to be the only kayak in this category worth buying? Is the 393rl updated every year or no competitor even tries?
It is a great one! I've seen a few other similar kayaks out there, but haven't had a chance to try them yet. The Decathlon Itiwit 500 looks similar, but has a deck on it. The Aquamarina Tomahawk also looks interesting. Hope to try both of those soon...
@@PaddleTV I have been using Aquamarina (Tomahawk Air-K-440) for a year and I am in love! It would be great if you could review this drop stitch series from Aquamarina and compare it to Sea Eagle. What catches my eye are the better Sea Eagle footrests. The streamlined shape may be a bit better on Aquamarina. In turn, my friend has recently been using the Itiwit Strenfit X 500 drop stitch kayak and this is a real torpedo! One more step towards speed thanks to the narrow profile and V shape of the bottom. Thanks a lot for your great lessons in other videos. Greetings from Poland!
Do you think you could take a dog in this kayak? I'm going to be traveling in my truck camper and can't load/unload my beloved Crescent kayak UL on the camper. So I'm trying to sell it and get an inflatable but I don't want a "tug boat". I want a good paddler but I also want to be able to take my little buddy along.
You could totally take a dog on this kayak... although a big dog would definitely make it tippy. You might want to consider the Sea Eagle Fast Track, instead of the RazorLite. You give up some speed, but get more stability, which would make paddling with a dog a lot more relaxing.
Yes, but there is a downside... The downside is that the foot braces are positioned for 2-people, and so if you place a single seat in the middle of the kayak, you won't have foot braces/pegs. You could always DIY it, and create something to serve as foot braces, or use the kayak without foot braces, but it won't be as nice as having them.
Check out my new UA-cam channel! www.youtube.com/@KenWhitingAdventures is now the place to find all my paddling adventure videos, while PaddleTV will focus on Instruction and Gear Reviews.
I just bought the Sea Eagle 393 after your high recommendations. Your review was spot on and I am very pleased with my purchase.
Thanks for your expertise.
We've had two of these since 2015. First, the original model and now, the newer, updated model. The newer one is quite a bit more "beefy", weighing in about 5 pounds heavier and has the built-in footrests as the one in this video. I cannot say enough about this kayak AND Sea Eagle for their customer service. We live full-time in our motorhome and to have these safely tucked away in a basement bin everywhere we travel is the best. The video talks about the initial stability and while it does feel a bit tippy when you first enter, let me assure you (even you beginners) that it is VERY hard to flip. I wanted to practice reentries when we first got them so I put it in my swimming pool. You cannot believe how hard I had to try to flip the thing over. You would have to be in some really rough water to tip this thing and that's not the market for this kayak to begin with. Being in an open kayak without having to "sit on top" is wonderful, especially when we're in canals of Florida with gators only a few feet away! If you get one, do yourself a favor and spend the extra $200 on the battery powered pump. Makes the startup that much quicker and easier.
That's great to hear! Thanks for sharing your experience!
Same material as the original, but the "beefy" is when they went to a heavier designed foot pegs on rails. First version was a pvc tube. If hauling dogs, kid(s), gear, cameras, due to it's not very stabile design, you will regret it. It's a kayak you must pay attention to while paddling, especially in eddies where you can/will get spun around and over you go.
Hence the replies that slows the decision making . One speaks of even for beginners one will quickly adapt and the difficulty in flipping and the next warns of going over .
Oh how I wish there were places to try various kayaks and then buy on the spot.
@@Joe-xq1nt I'm in Fl and we go to Rum Island and they do just that, my 16 YO was treated like royalty, on the Santa Fe they said 'Take it for a half an hour or so" two or three times till she bought a real nice (BOTE) stand up board. So they do exist. ;
@@Joe-xq1nt Exactly. What is considered tippy? What is considered stable? I suspect it is somewhat more stable than a narrow hardshell kayak. I could also be way off base on that assessment just from watching countless reviews. Who do you believe? I tend to trust this fellow in the video but what constitutes an "intermediate" or a "beginner"?
Some people are very athletic & have a natural ability to take to most anything. Others are terribly awkward & lack confidence. I just know that if I purchase a $400-$500 inflatable kayak I will be regretting it & wishing I got something better in a month but I won't know until I try a bulbous wide slow kayak vs this ridged sleeker one in the video.
@bailey9r replied to you about a place in Florida where you can try out kayaks. Sadly the majority of the North American market does not live in Florida. Some of us even live in smaller cities & towns in Canada where there are no options to try before you buy.
Only thing I'd like to add to this kayak is, some hook fastening points, to hook in a cargo net. Wouldn't have to worry about the possibility of your rucksack etc, falling out of the boat if overturned.
I absolutely love mine. I was nervous due to the price but I have zero regrets!!
Great to hear! I'm not surprised your loving it.
I would really like to message with you - I just ordered mine, and I would love more info and tips! How do we message people on this platform?
The foot rest design of this boat is the key factor contributing to its stability. With feet being stuck at both sides of the boat, your body and feet will form a stable triangle structure against the boat, this is the reason that this narrow boat can have its good stability. Aqua Marina Tomahawk boat is too unstable as some of its customers complained just because it does not have such good foot rest design .
I too have been taking hard look at this boat. When I last checked, sold out until Sept. 2021. One thing that was not mentioned is that Sea Eagle offers a money back satisfaction warranty unless they have recently changed their policy. I have no idea how difficult/easy a return would be. Definitely a quality company. Thanks for a great review!
Yes, they still do.
I only go kayaking 3-4 times a year. Always been a rental. Transporting is the issue. 2k for a roof rack for my jeep, storage at home another issue so inflatable was my only easy option. What I found being a novice with the 393. You can flip it easssssy. You can also have no issue feeling very stable as well. It’s also very easy to right the kayak if you do flip and get back in. I’m 67 and it’s no issue. I practiced it a few times in my pool and was surprised at the ease to get back in. The cons imo are getting the beast back in the bag! Holy crap what an undertaking! No one shows that in their review. Also you’ll hear it said how you can throw it in your trunk. Yeah ok but that’s all you’ll get in there so if you need two kayaks the trunk is no option, when you read it fits in a back pack get the idea of a typical back pack out of your noggin! Ok it’s big and not all that light when it’s on your back. Ok maybe if your a weight lifter and 40 years old.
Now for storage. Do you live where it’s hot. If you do this need to be stored in your home at room temp, not in your garage or shed. Not my opinion, that’s direct from Sea Eagle.
I really like mine but I wish hard shells were an option for me. I think this is the next best thing but it’s not the all to end all by any means.
I really wish when these reviews were done they were complete. An unbiased review that’s not complete is just that, Not complete . But that’s what I think we dreamers need.
Very informative. We have a Dave Scadden inflatable, which is a great boat, but it is so wide it's like paddling your sofa. I like the narrower design and will do more research on this. Thanks.
Cool kayak! Really should almost be called an inflatable pack canoe boat with its open cockpit design. As always great indepth reviews!
Amazing how that entire kayak gets packed in that backpack. I can imagine some cool trips with it.
Packable kayaks have come a long way, haven't they?
Great job on the review Ken! I really enjoy watching your videos, you do a great job! I just received a sea eagle razorlite via UPS today. I’m going to be doing a review of it as well on my channel. I normally paddle rigid hull touring kayaks, but I want something more portable for traveling. Safe paddling!
Great! Look forward to checking it out. I just subscribed. :)
Well, Ken, I bought the Razorlite 393 and I LOVE it. It had her maiden voyage last weekend, and it was incredible. A few thoughts: I didn't find it nearly as "tippy" as I expected from how much people were commenting on that. I wonder if people aren't bracing their knees? The moment I took a knee away from the side, it felt "weebly" (as in Weebles wobble but they don't fall down--did I just date myself?), but not in danger of tipping--or even like it might. The footrests are a game changer (even though the rods are the devil), and the main reason I went with the RL The seat wasn't exactly plush, but still better than my hardshell. I was able to paddle farther and faster than in my hardshell (which isn't the best to begin with, but still better than many I've tried). Better yet--so much less fatigue. The RL slices so nicely through the water, but it definitely doesn't turn on a dime. LOL I was able to zoom in (as much as my ancient phone can) and get a decent picture of a big-horned sheep up on the cliffs without constantly using the paddle to straighten myself out (and fearing I'd drop my phone). Rock steady! I have to work on being more efficient with set-up and tear down, but that will come with time. Happy paddling!
That's so great to hear! You're totally right that it's not a tippy kayak, unless you compare it to some recreational kayaks, which are like floating docks. But, if you compare the 393 to a higher performance sea kayak, then there's nothing tippy about it! I had the same challenge at first with the rods for the footrests, but I totally agree... love having real footrests in an inflatable kayak. Stoked to hear you've found your 'happy kayak' :) Enjoy paddling over the Holidays!
Here in Europe we have decathlon inflatable kayak something similar. Portability is 100% the key factor for me, it fits in the boot of my small citroen car
Now we have also this boat rebranded. Aircanoe 393S
@@neorider9183 its not the same, look at the footrest
Take a free online US Coast Guard Safety Course for canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddling (SUP): cms.americancanoe.org/Online-Courses/Present/Paddlesports-Safety-Online-Course
Just bought one!!!! Thank you for your review.I cant wait to see your review of the Scupper 12.I want that one too!!!🥰
Hi again, Ken! I've been spending a lot more time in the 393RL (and even added my new rescue pooch to the mix). He's only 13.5 lbs, but when he moves from side-to-side, the boat registers that movement, but again--no fears of tipping. In fact, he lost his balance out on the bow once day and fell in. When I leaned over to grab the handle on his life vest, that secondary stability kicked in, and I could just focus on getting Henry back in the boat without any concerns that I'd tip. I still haven't managed to get the foot pegs out and install the new ones, but I've made some protective sleeves for the foot pedals to prevent them from damaging the boat while in storage. The one thing I would say that is the biggest drawback is the seat. The back is nice and supportive, but after 2 hours (and I'm usually out for 6+ hours with a break in the middle), the seat is downright uncomfortable. I might as well be sitting on a brick. In all the reviews you've done over the years, can you think of a seat that would work in the 393RL that is more comfortable (and has similar rigging)? I've tried adding 1" foam padding and that does help a little, but it rolls up and is a pain in the butt (literally and figuratively). I don't want to add too much height for fear of throwing of my center of gravity. Would love to check out any seat suggestions you have. In fact, it's the seat that's actually making me consider returning the 393RL.
Great to hear you're enjoying it! As for getting a more comfortable seat, or making the seat more comfortable, I think it's worth trying an inflatable seat cushion. I've never actually tried it in a kayak but I've thought about it a few times. There are many to choose from that are designed for sitting around camp, if you don't have a camp chair, but want something so you're not sitting directly on the ground. Here's a link to one: bit.ly/3vDlBVw
@@PaddleTV Thank you so much for the suggestion. I actually looked at that one, but wasn't sure if it was padded enough. lol I'll give it another look. Have a fabulous day!
I have the Sea Eagle Fasttrack (10 yrs.) and now the Explorer (1yr.). Never had a problem with the skeg. I love them.
Great to know! Thanks.
@@PaddleTV Actually the only problem I had was with the little slot and slot key (that is connected with heavy duty string) that locks the skeg in place. The string came loose as I was pulling the key out and it dropped in the water. Fortunately I found it....twice. Then I added a second safety string.
I have a Fast track about 10 yrs old,too and I just bought the explorer. Never had trouble with the skeg. You can always just buy a new one if you did. They are inexpensive.
In terms of stability, how does the Fastrack compare to the RAZORLITE?
@@PaddleTV Also note Ken, both me & Kayak Cliff feel the skeg is NOT needed on the Razorlite except in extreme conditions with a strong cross wind. We both almost never use it, and use our Razorlites frequently. It also tracks extremely well, with no skeg. I love the ability to paddle the shoreline down to a couple inches of water, and skim over the rocks with no fear of the skeg hitting them.
And if you did break the skeg, it's $30 to replace. I bought mine new opened package missing the skeg. Not a single time did I wish I had bought it. But I have it if I ever really need it.
The fin is very strong. Yesterday I had to beat mine severely with a rock to get it out since sand had locked it in the slot. Seaeagle sells spares in different sizes anyway. I have their magnificent 300x which will surf and autobail as advertised.
Yep I think the issue is not that it could break, but that it may tear the boat bottom if it hangs up.
I have owned single and double sit on top kayaks and conventional molded kayaks and they are heavy to lift onto a roof rack and take space to store at home. My double hard kayak weighed 90 lbs and the roof rack on my truck was 7 feet above the ground. The Sea Eagle double weighs 45 lb and the single weighs 35 lb so no issues with carrying them around.
The Sea Eagle Razorlite also have a skeg mount that allows attaching a Bixby electric drive motor in seconds. With a hard shell kayak one can bolt on a frame and add a trolling motor and a battery but the Sea Eagle approach is cleaner and more elegant.
I used a jet ski trailer to transport two Hobie kayaks to boating spots but being able to put a Sea Eagle double in the cargo area of a small SUV or in the bed of a pickup truck is far easier to manage and no worries about an expensive boat getting stolen while one is at a restaurant or staying overnight at a hotel or B&B.
Makes sense! Inflatables are much more accessible, aren't they?
I can verify to the tippyness. I used mine for the first time yesterday. I owned a sit-on-top kayak in Hawaii, and this is less stable. It really moves once you take a few strokes, but it's going to take some getting used to.
Thanks for the insight!
I noticed it too trying my Razorlite for the first time yesterday. It's the same as a typical hard shell kayak.
For people looking for a kayak that is incredibly stable, check out Sea Eagle's 435ps Paddleski. The most stable & versatile kayak in the world. Sadly they discontinued them last year due to government regulations on the materials used. I was so concerned about my favorite kayak, I bought a 2nd one as a spare.
Sea Eagle just came out with a replacement called the 437 Paddleski. It looks like a good boat, but it's no longer categorized as a kayak. It's wider and has larger tubes. It motors twice as fast if your using a 5 or 6HP motor (impractical for us small car owners vs my 3HP Torqeedo 1003s). Many suspect the 437ps will not paddle nearly as well, but you can paddle it as a kayak as shown in images. The manual comes with a warning that it's intended to be used with a motor, but can be paddled. The 435ps was sold to the kayaking market, and at least half the people never had a motor or sail rig on theirs, but I love motoring, sailing & paddling the 435ps. The 437ps would be fine if you want to paddle in calm conditions, and don't need to go many miles paddling without a motor installed just in case you need it, but it's aimed at the fishing market now.
I have seen one of these is action. My friend has one and loves it.
Not surprised to hear they love it. I truly was impressed with it.
I like how you present your review. Looking forward to finding one on the model I'm considering.
Thanks! What model are you considering??
@@PaddleTV Haha... 4 months later... actually... the sea eagle fishing 350fx looks like my first choice... and if I win the lottery I'll get this one too. I like to paddle and fish. As for the one I was considering, well, it got crossed off the list because it was a bladder/skin unit. I'll be on the road living out of a pickup truck and small camper for a couple years. From all I've read on this topic, Sea Eagle appears to be the hands down winner in the intermediate price category.
Another great review. I’d love to see you review the Aquaglide Blackfoot 130.
Coming soon I hope!
Excellent, articulate review. I'm buying one based on your good review.
Good solid and honest review. Thank you. We will be getting a 385FT or 465FT, both great flat water boats for two people.
Cheers, and enjoy!
Excellent review. I will stick with my Perception Pescador 100 Pro. It's great for fishing and for fun paddling.
Thanks Mike. I'm actually reviewing the Pescador in the next week or so! Look forward to trying it.
As an avid seakayaker, I bought the Oru Coast XT, due to it being more like a traditional hard-chined greenland kayak, but I really came close to buying the Razorlite. Some folks in my local "inflatable kayak" meetup group have these.
How are you liking the Oru Coast XT? I just tried the Oru Inlet, which is a recreational kayak, but it really made me want to try the Coast.
@@PaddleTV I like it. It tracks, edges, and, overall behaves very similarly to my 17' touring boat, a Pygmy Arctic Tern, but it's 10lbs lighter, and folds up for easier transport. My main gripe is the stock seat isn't comfortable and the neoprene bow/stern fairings are blunt and plows water. The glide isn't as efficient as I had hoped. It gets a lot of attention when assembling it on the beach.
I agree that foot pegs are essential.
When I see a world class paddler like Ken in action, I notice that they really bring their legs into the game.
I didn't see that here.
I *did* notice considerable yaw under fairly mellow forward strokes.
That thing was wagging it's tail more than any 12+ footer I've ever seen!
(presumably with skeg affixed)
Ken's experience speaks for itself, and his reviews are top notch.
$1000 can buy a much more suitable intermediate+ boat in my opinion.
I left this review with the feeling that the featured boat will appeal to a very narrow slice of the paddling community.
Thanks Paddle TV for such wonderfully produced content.
I truly enjoy every episode!
But can you get a better value in an inflatable or folding boat? For those of us who don’t value the ability to break down the boats, we have to be careful about our biases. I drive thousands of miles with the boats on the roof of our wagon each year. I have storage space. Honestly, I’ve made home and car decisions around paddling needs.
I can totally see how other folks might put a lot of value on a boat being able to store in a closet and travel in the car.
@@nunyabidness3075 Agreed. These come at a premium but for those of us who don't have sufficient room at our house or on/in our vehicles, they seem to be a good compromise that gets similar performance to a hardshell. I have ordered a couple that will hopefully arrive before summer. Hoping I made the right decision. Thanks to the channel for a recent review as most others are from 3-4 years ago.
@@nunyabidness3075
I believe that there's a place for blow-ups & folders.
Ken delivered a straightforward, no nonsense presentation which spotlighted a couple of concerns for me regarding intermediate+ paddlers.
I immediately spotted a lack of any driving of the legs. Intermediate+ paddlers are encouraged to get their legs into the game. Ken's as good a paddler as anyone could hope to ever be. This makes me wonder if he had to curtail his technique to avoid the squishing about and flexing of the foot rests.
The waggy tail on a 12+ footer would satisfy very few intermediate+ paddlers in my opinion, which is based upon observation rather than bias.
I didn't begin watching this review with any prejudice.
In fact, with the slightly tippy initial stability coupled with solid secondary and painless storage...
It would make a great spare boat for friends & family of a paddler with limited space.
(have 'em edging in no time)
There IS a market for it.
Time will tell how large that market is...
Thanks Rick!
You bring up a good point about showing more 'paddling' in these gear review videos, to get a better sense for how they perform. As for the foot pegs on this one... they're super solid. I wasn't using them while paddling and talking, because I had to paddle slowly to stay in pace with the camera boat, but when I was testing the kayak, I was definitely pressing pretty hard into the foot pegs with every stroke, and they were solid.
I'll be sure to show more paddling in upcoming gear reviews!
I'll let you know when I find an inflatable or folding boat that provides the same value (portability aside) as hardshell kayaks. They're getting very close, but they're not quite there yet. I would continue to recommend a hardshell kayak over a packable kayak if storability and transportability isn't a primary need.
Just watched another video where reviewer said very little difference without the skeg, he never uses it. Also he showed stability was great by sitting crossways and dangling feet in water. He turned completely around to get to cooler behind seat. Seems pretty stable to me.
Would like to have seen you do some turns or circles to see how it handled
Great point Connie! I think it's a great idea to show more of the boats in action, and how they maneuver. I'm going to do more of that in future videos. Thanks!
well yesterday i took a turn up to the ramp a little bit too fast and almost fell in the water right by the ramp but i recovered fast. i didn't realize how fast of speed you can pick up on it ..i was trying to get momentum lol.
@@PaddleTV Agree. Please show entry and exit for lakes, ramps, etc. Also tip over re-entry. I would like to see how gear is stowed. It's a day use boat primarily but should accommodate water bottles and a jacket, I would hope.
What a great review! There aren’t many in-depth reviews on this boat like this so it was great to see it in action. I’m torn between this boat and the Aqua Marine Tomahawk. The Sea Eagle is twice the price, but is it twice the boat? Both seem to have plus points from just looking at them. It’s hard to see which is best without buying both 😫
I'm facing the same decision. What kajak did you end up with and would you recommend it?
@@knusperhirsch7056 guys I'm considering both right now. Which one did you both get?
Thank you for this review it has help me decide what is best and this is it I definitely need portability great job on video thanks again!!!!
Hey Ken, great video! I was recently in the market for an inflatable kayak and putting a list together (had a whole spreadsheet and everything). I wanted something fast but comfortable and this video really helped flagged the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393 as one to have a closer look at. After researching it more I fell in love and bought one. Just wanted to say thank you for the review and keep up the awesome work!
Happy I could help! Thanks for sharing this! I plan to keep doing lots more reviews next year... it's a great excuse to get out on the water and trying cool products! :)
Thinking about buying one,your thoughts on it now would be greatly appreciated ?
Are you happy with it now ? Trying to narrow down my list,would love your feedback ?
A heads up for tall folks. I was excited about this boat, but at 6'5" and a 36" inseam I maxed out the footpegs and had to move my seat back which threw off the balance and subsequently, it tracked quite poorly. A great boat to consider, though if you're the right size.
Thanks for that heads up. I’m 6’5”, 36” inseam also. That’s a big concern for me also. Curious have you found a kayak for tall guys? Thanks
@@outdoorbill6271 The quest continues. I have a tandem (Innova Sunny) that I use as a single, but it's a bit too much boat for quick maneuvering on fast water. The best set up I use is actually paddling with an inflatable paddle board, but sitting/kneeling. It's great for shallow rocky water and for photography and video here on the Potomac. Fortunately I have pretty flexible knees. A short clip: ua-cam.com/video/UGKCvlDLQBo/v-deo.html. Good luck! We're just over the line in terms of sizing.
@@jonathanfoust635 Hey thanks for getting back to me. I’ve only just started my search. It’s hard being a giant in a small man’s world but we can still dream. Lol
@@outdoorbill6271 Good luck! Accommodating a tall body definitely adds complexity to finding the right balance of weight, stability and maneuverability. If you find the right one, do let me know.
awesome review! Are you planning to review the Decathlon Strenfit X500 anytime? it literally looks like the closest an inflatable can come to a hard shell kayak! Keep up the great videos!
Hoping to do that! They're going to send a review X500 as soon as they have them back in stock, which might be a while.
I am using for paddling & trolling the tandem version 473RL 3 years now and i'm very happy. Recommended inflatable. No flex brace option 3 years ago, I made a custom footplate for better performance. Some videos on my channel.
I also have a older version of the 473rl with the pvc pipe foot braces. They drive me nuts and I have been trying to devise a way to give better support to my feet! I looked at one of your videos but can’t make out what you fabricated. Any tips?
@@geoffreyderuntz5928 It is a piece of plywood attached with nylon cable ties on a pvc pipe. I am about to make a much better and sturdier foot plate pretty soon. I will upload a video when ready.
DO you think the 473 is faster and tracks better than the 393 ? For a single person ?
@@LJ-jq8og I cant tell as I havent paddled the 393. 473 tracks very well, I never use the fin provided. Probably 393 requires less paddling effort at lower speeds, becouse of less wetted surface area, thus less water friction. But I cant say how they compare at speeds above 3 miles per hour for a single paddler. I suggest asking Sea Eagle.
@@niikkkoooosssss Ok. and Thx !
Love to see a review on the Sea Eagle 385 ft
The FT's are awesome, I have the 465. "middle of the road" of their kayaks. Buy with confidence.
@@reallyhappenings5597 All based on the why you want one I suppose...what will you use it for...Lots of room in the 265 I hear. You use your kayaks much?
Just watching you paddle, it moves like a hard shell kayak. That front fin thing really works, in fact they should have them on hard shells too.
Notice the big round thing on the front of big ships now? It's very cool to have an engineered nose that's more than just a V design.
I have the explorer and have used a ton over my first year. I hit over 50 unique water bodies on it. I chose it for stability and for helping my wife to feel more comfortable. How does the razorlite compare having reviewed both especially for speed? I’m looking at the single person version this time.
Also I’ve found the skeg on the explorer which is the same as the rl to be very tough. It really takes a beating hitting things, dragging on sand and rocks, and supporting the kayak out of eater.
I would like to see your review on the TuckTech folding kayak. It looks interesting, and sells for only $350. One of the most attractive things about it was the company's claim of setup time in as little as 1.5 minutes, but most user reviews seem closer to 5 minutes, and tear down time even longer than inflatables. I'd like to know how realistic that setup time is.
I'd love to know how the TuckTech compares to my Razorlite 393rl, and also how the 20 lbs ORU Inlet compares to both.
Still trying to get my hands on a TuckTec! Hope to try it someday soon.
The sea eagle skegs are next level tough. Don't really have to worry about them breaking. On my excursions this year between me and my friends, there have been 7 skeg/paddleboard-fin breaks, all of which have been non sea eagle. The sea eagle ones are way thicker and tougher, from experience
Great to hear!
Great video! Do you have any preference between the FastTrack vs Razorlite for ocean kayaking?
Nice video. It would be great to get your impression of white water inflatable kayaks (Sea Eagle 380x, Star, Aire, NRS, etc)
Thanks... and I've got one coming soon. Testing the NRS Raven Pro very soon!
@@PaddleTV Awesome, I am considering getting one... Few good options around that price point
I bought a Tupelo 12 5 because of your review..... unfortunately my shoulders are damaged to the point where I can't get in or out of it very well... the jakson bite I got to go along with it is like paddling a dock around... so I think my next one will be the sea eagle... so I can just throw it in the jeep no trailer needled anymore
Please compare this directly to the Hobbie itrek. This is sleeker, but the hobbie is lighter with the mirage pedal drive with the kick up system and a rudder that easily flicks up out of the way. I'm undecided between these models.
Any tips for paddling the tandum version, solo?
I've been looking at the new 473rl for its storage capacity on multi-day trips but it seems like they don't make it compatible for a solo kayaker like the older model, which allows you to attach your seat more towards the center on solo trips and additional D-ring attachments specifically to attach footrests for solo. I would buy the 393rl but it definitely won't fit a 70L dry backpack.
I purchased a 473 rl about 2 years ago and it didn’t have the glued on adjustable footrests. My boat has straps that run through a short length of pvc pipe and clip to the d-rings on the boat sides. I don’t like the pvc pipe footrests because they lay on the floor and only one’s heel gets any purchase on it. The bright side is at least I can configure my boat for soloing.
I was glad to come across your video. I have been using a Tutjak sea kayak for 10 years now and just ordered one of these for solo outings on calmer waters. The carrying bag in your video wasn't available for purchase. I have a large nylon duffel bag with sturdy wheels that I'm hoping to use. Do you think that might be suitable? Any tips for packing?
I think the duffel bag should work. The kayak comes with instructions on how to best pack it. I think the biggest trick is to make sure you use a towel to dry it off well before packing it away.
Love your videos. What do you think of the Intex excursion pro k2. Have you review one as yet. Could not find if you did. I'm a beginner in the kayaking multiverse. Would like to use it every time we go rving. Once or twice a month.
Nice review Ken. Would you think the RazorLite would be capable on Class I and II rivers? I'd like something good for lakes and ocean but also capable on mild rivers and to load with gear for 2-3 night trips.
The 393 would definitely be 'capable' of Class 1 and 2 rivers, but it's definitely not the kayak's strength. It certainly has the capacity for the gear. It would be like taking a touring kayak into current, but without the benefit of thigh hooks. Totally doable, but make sure you rig to flip, because it is a real possibility.
Fantastic video. You're very good at this. Question for the expert: How does paddling this compare to paddling an ocean kayak? Something like a frenzy from Ocean Kayaks. I've paddled those boats as rentals and they're obviously not designed for touring. They're a bit of a dog on the water.
Thanks! The 393 is WAY faster and more fun to paddle than the Frenzy, although it is a flatwater kayak. You wouldn't want to take the 393 into rough stuff - like ocean surf - which you could do with the Frenzy. The trade off for speed of the 393 is that it's not as stable as the Frenzy. That's always the trade off though - you give up stability for speed.
@@PaddleTV Thank you very much. I plan on paddling on lakes and I'm looking at the Fast Track and the 393rl from Sea Eagle. Looks like the 393rl has better performance and learning how to balance in a narrower boat is probably better than settling for a slower speed. I don't need to stand up in the boat. Since you've paddled both what are your thoughts?
Thank you! Great video!
Good day,
What do you think of the AIRCANOE CRUISER 393S DROPSTITCH KAYAK? I have never heard of the company. Thanks Peter
Really enjoyed your review.
I found a great deal on a Razorlite 393RL from a 3rd party, brand new but missing the skeg and one of the side foot pegs/bars. Do you know if they are the same on both sides, or is there a left and right peg? It included the backpack, pump, and a left or right foot peg & metal bar. The tall back seat & paddle were missing, but I happen to have an extra tall back seat as I prefer the inflatable Deluxe seats on my other Sea Eagle kayaks.
The idea of hard shell kayaking is appealing and there will be a time & place I'll enjoy that. This kayak I can also use to go kayaking with friends, where as my Paddleski will either be slower or way ahead with my Torqeedo motor. I also like the back pack idea so I can access remote areas by foot.
As we're visiting the beautiful Onedia Lake, NY area at the moment, I'm quickly reminded why the Paddleski 435ps is by far my favorite kayak. My wind app says it was only a 5mph wind, but the lake clearly rough between power boats, and it's size of 50,894 acres wide open with nothing blocking the wind. The 3 times I've visited the area in the past year (yet to kayak it), it's way too rough for a kayak or even an inflatable kayak. I have a fleet of Sea Eagles. Only my Paddleski could reasonably comfortably handle a place like this using either my motor or full sail rig. We could paddle the calm areas if there are any. Our Paddleski, motor and tons of accessories fit in the trunk of any sedan, and the sail rig goes in a bag the size of a golf bag.
The incredible Sea Eagle Paddleski is finally back on the market as of last week. The new model does paddle with a kayak paddle, but many of us suspect since it is a foot wider, it won't paddle as well as the focus is more it's improved ability to take an even larger motor and stand up casting for people that fish. I'd love to see your review on the brand new Paddleski 437ps. And I'd also love to see it compared to the 435ps which had been out for several years until spring 2020. The most versatile kayak in the world. The 435ps was categorized as a "kayak" by Sea Eagle. The 437ps that replaced it, is now under "boats" but does paddle as a kayak.
Thanks for sharing! Regarding the 393 foot braces - the right and left are different. You'll have to get the appropriate one.
@@PaddleTV Some people have told me they prefer using the original PVC tube with rope or chain. Also easier to setup. It would cost $70 for a pair of foot pegs and the single metal bar missing, so I may try to make my own first. It actually paddled pretty well yesterday with no foot rest or skeg, which I also need.
Hi been kayaking a few times with rentals in Oahu, Hawaii (calm open ocean) and a few still lakes in California. Looking to get this Razor but also interested in knowing any other must and good to have items for a newer kayaker? Open to specific Brand or general recommendations. Your videos have been really helpful to narrow selection and definitely a subscriber!
That would be a great topic for a video! Thanks for the idea.
still not seen one used in the wind ! living in the UK its a part of the experience , if it weathercocks its not worth the air you put into it
Thanks for the review. Would the Razorlite be stable enough to use on the sea if it got a bit choppy? I was also considering their Fastrack kayak which doesn’t look as fast but maybe has more stability?
Yup. Good call. If you're an experienced paddler with good braces, the Razorlite could handle some choppy seas. But, the Fasttrack will definitely be more stable. I'll actually be reviewing the Fasttrack this spring, and I'm looking forward to it!
@@PaddleTV I agree, but much prefer the Razorlite. I paddle both. Love the Razorlite, not a fan of the Fast Track. I own 7 Sea Eagle kayaks, and paddle my friend's Razorlite.
Thanks for the information! Just curious, if I'm looking for a quality inflatable similar to this one, but as an inexperienced beginner, what would you recommend? Thank you so much!
This kayak is reasonable for a beginner, but yes, there are much more stable kayaks to choose from. Sea Eagle also has the 385 Fast Track. Although I haven't tried one yet, it looks like it could be what you're after. More stable, but still has some good performance. Here's a link to it: bit.ly/3eYJ8H2
Thanks for the video. Very well-presented and you stick to the subject. I do have a question. My background is paddling solo canoes. This boat looks very much like a solo canoe and I'm wondering if anyone has tried paddling this craft with a canoe paddle. I would be sitting, not kneeling, but I just like canoe paddles a lot more than kayak paddles. Any thoughts?
You could definitely do that. Although... you could also consider the Sea Eagle Travel Canoe. I just tested it (video coming soon) and I was really impressed with it. Bigger, more stable, real canoe seats... but it fits in a bag. But... if you're looking for something lower to the water that you can sit lower in, the 393rl is the ticket.
@@PaddleTV Thanks for the response. I'm glad you mentioned the seat height. I'm 72 and I find I have to be up off the floor of a boat a little to sit comfortably and paddle. The seat on that kayak looks low to me and I'm planning to use a boat cushion or something like that on the seat to sit on. If I'm too high stability will be reduced, so I'll have to find the right height. At 38"wide, the Travel Canoe would make me either sit off-center or lean way over to paddle from the middle seat position but it's probably stable enough that I could do it. I'd certainly be sitting higher.
Oh wow! Now they need to make a true inflatable sea kayak... like a Rockpool or a Sertling
Wouldn't that be cool?
We’ve been looking at the Oru Inlet and Beach LT for my wife and myself, respectively. She’s 5’2” / 130 and I’m 6’2” 275. I love this as an option to the Oru’s as I worry about durability, but the 17” interior width has me concerned. Sitting down, my hips are about 20” and I’m left wondering if the 17” inflatable will expand to accept my wider hips. Any thoughts?
What inflatable has a 17" interior width?
Your concerns are totally legitimate. Talk to Kayak Cliff about it who had a couple higher end ORU's and switched to the Razorlite which he tells me he much prefers both for the durablity & the performance.
Having joined an ORU group to learn about them and check them out, I've come to the conclusion that their primary market is woman who do not want to carry anything to heavy at all. The Inlet is about 20 lbs vs 35 for the Razorlite. That is a big difference. I even considered getting an Inlet to have something to take to remote ponds hiking, and now their far less expensive Lake model is even lighter. But....feedback makes me question durability of their products. Even the person running the group destroyed their ORU attempting a self-rescue practice. And if you flip an ORU, they often fill with water and can not be paddled back. And someone recently said the "Lake" is a disposable kayak and his broke very quickly. In the super light weight category, Aquaglide has a brand new 15 lbs inflatable. I still feel the Razorlite is better all around except the weight, and about $300 cheaper.I can deal with 35 lbs from the car to the water. So that's the real question for most people.
Would you still recommend the Sea Eagle RaxorLite 393 for extremely shallow water (without using the skeg)? The Russian River can go from 30 feet deep to lonog stretches of just 5 to 10 inches. Without a skeg, I'd float over most of the shallows, but with a skeg I'd have to get out and walk.
Absolutely, but the Razorlite is not a white water boat.
Do you think this could be paddled with a single blade open canoe style paddle?
I don't see why not, although I don't know how comfortable it would be over a long period.
Hi, really like your reviews. I'm looking for a higher performance kayak ( I have a sea eagle 380x, as a workhorse, two up with wife, or fishing etc) . Narrowed my choice to razorlight 393rl, and the itiwit x500. Could you please answer three questions?
How does the material thickness compare for both these?
How do they compare speed wise?
And how do they compare in wind, especially side wind?.
Thanks in anticipation. Kev
I haven't tried the X500 yet, although they're supposed to send me one this summer to test. That being said, it would be hard to go wrong with the 393rl. They probably perform very similarly with a side wind... although that's just my best guess.
@@PaddleTV many thanks for your reply. Just ordered the 393rl.
I popped my Sevylor inflatable due to the Arizona sun. Does this one have pressure relief valves?
No, I'm pretty sure it doesn't have pressure relief valves. I just tested one that does though, which is fairly similar (video coming soon). It's called the Advanced Elements AirVolution. Nice boat! Not as fast as the Razorlite, but more stable.
@@PaddleTV I own an AirVolution and it does have pressure relief valves. In Gen 2 they reduced the relief pressure by a few PSI.
I have owned a hard shell and a cheap inflatable kayak. gave up my hard shell bc of space and transport. switched to the cheap inflatable. I floated with my dog for about 3 years on and off, i even took it to mexico and got into the shark infested waters lol. just a little sagging but not a problem.
i got the razorlite a month ago. after the second trip the bottom got scratches in a way that you would anticipate after years of use. i recall going over one rock which is expected when you are on the water. So one rock (round not pointy) caused 2 huge scratches?
Now i feel like i am sitting on something really not durable. i tend to take care of my things so that they would last me longer. i don't know except for not using it what else can i do to minimize damage.
the other thing i don't like is the metal on the foot rest. takes some strong fingers and i have to fight it to get it in. a guy NO PROBLEM. i had a guy put mine in when i got really frustrated. they could just engineer something that can be screwed in and out. you know like ikea does. other than that yes it is fast and tracks well they should make the skeg half the size so that you don't get stuck. that thing is too long. is it tippy? yes. you feel a little out of balance but with a lot of hip practice you get used to it. if you get big waves you won't be able to reach the valves at the end to let the water out. wish they had put some rings for putting a skirt on. other than that.... would i buy this again pbby not.
Question: I am looking at one now. Other than portability I just can't properly secure a hardshell my next largest or highest priority is speed and tracking. If those were your priorities would you buy one again? I'm not as worried about damage because where I intend to use it. Thanks.
@@LJ-jq8og yes, i would.
@@chevyvantravel9735 So if I understand you correctly notwithstanding how expensive it is you feel (absent your damage issue) you liked it enough that you would buy another one ?
@@LJ-jq8og I would be conscientious about damage , but since you said you will be ok in that department, if i were looking for tracking and speed i would buy it again.
@@chevyvantravel9735 THANKS !
Does it seem feasible to just chill in it or even swim from it sometimes? I guess the fasttrack is a better choice, but this seems like a much more agile kayak. Thanks?
It would be tricky to get back into this kayak from the water, if you hopped off to go swimming. I would expect you'd need to get to shore for that, unless you've practiced it a bunch. Sorry... not going to test the reentry on this kayak! :)
If you need to just chill or even swim from it sometimes, then fast track is definitely your choice. I tried both, fast track and razor light. Love both a lot, but FT is more recreational type and pretty fast too. RL has amazing performance, but swimming from it may be challenging.
Just scored a year old 393 pro carbon in mint condition with life jack and battery BTP turbo pump for $600. Deals are out there if your patient.
Nice!!
Sea Eagle is a good brand.
Yup. They've been doing it for a while now!
Good day, I just saw what seems to be a great deal on a new CORRAN WATERGLIDE KAYAK (similar layout to the kayak reviewed above). I have never heard of Corran or Waterglide. Furthermore, I can not find any information on the internet. Any thoughts you might have, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Peter
I don't know anything about that kayak, but I do know Corran, and he's always been an innovator in the paddlesports world. He's had a significant impact on the development of whitewater kayak designs over the past few decades. Of course, this doesn't mean the WaterGlide is a good kayak... but it comes from someone who is an expert paddler and boat designer.
Thank you very much. This information is vey helpful. Peter
@@PaddleTV
How would you install a Torqueedo Ultralight 1103 or 403 on an inflatable kayak? Thanks
I've kayaked a number of times, though I would not consider myself an intermediate. So would you NOT recommend this boat for someone who has moderate experience like me? I'm thinking long term... if I could buy just one kayak instead of buying an entry level, then buying another one later, could this one serve that purpose? I was also looking at the Sea Eagle 300x, but because the two are close in price, I wondered if the 393rl might be better to get. My primary use would likely be on the ocean. I'm 6'-3", 215 lbs. Thanks!
This kayak could be a great kayak for you to get (and grow with), as long as you're fine with having a kayak that doesn't feel ultra stable. The 300x would be good for playing around in ocean surf, but it will be WAY slow compared to the 393 - not good for flatwater. If you want something more stable than the 393, but that still has reasonable speed for paddling on the ocean, I think the 385 would be a better bet - although I haven't tried it yet. If you like the idea of having a faster/higher performance kayak, then the 393 is the ticket. Don't get me wrong... I'm not saying the 393 is super unstable... It isn't. It's reasonably stable. It's just not nearly as stable as most entry level kayaks, which are designed primarily for stability.
Hello Ken, ... and/or subscribers. Looking for some advice/suggestions/opinions. I am thinking of this kayak as a stepping stone to a surf ski. I am 60, no previous paddling experience. Plenty of triathlons. Bad knees hence the direction of paddling. This kayak is mentioned as being for intermediate +. That is not me, ... but I am prepared to put in the time on this unit as a "trial" before maybe/maybe not moving to a surf ski. I am in Hong Kong, so a surf ski purchase would also come with a club membership for storage. Not cheap. No storage at home. Hence the bonus of the storage with this. Mainly coastal in good weather. Occasionally traveling with it (airline pilot), when the occasion may permit. Lake Como. London Canals. Rhine. Lake Michigan. Boston. That is if travel opens up for Hong Kong. A bit stuck at the moment. Thanks in advance. Good health to all.
If you have your sights set on a surf ski, I think this would be a good stepping stone kayak. It's not that new paddlers shouldn't use it... it just needs to be accepted that the kayak isn't designed to be the most stable kayak. It's designed to perform. Another option would be the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite. It's an inflatable kayak that is designed for some performance. I can't tell you how it does yet, as I haven't tested it, but I will be testing it in about a month or two.
what PFD were you wearing in the video? I'm looking for something with a high back like that. Thanks!
This was the NRS Chinook. Great PFD.
I’m trying to decide between the Airvolution2 and the Razorlite 473rl for my wife and I (plus a small 20lb dog). We are kinda beginners and would only use the kayak for day trips in good conditions on lakes, bays and Sea of Cortez etc. I’m leaning towards the 423rl as it has more space, better comfort and superior performance but was concerned about stability. Is the Razorlite 423rl going to be to unstable for us or will we learn to handle it as we get more experience?
Great question. This is a common question I get - Razorlite vs AirVolution. You really hit the nail on the head with the decision you have to make. Are you willing to give up some stability for performance? My feeling is this... if you are relatively athletic folks, then you'll be fine with the Razorlite. It's around 30" wide, which should be quite stable. If you're not athletic at all, then you might be better off with AirVolution. The good news is that if you're not happy with the decision you make, it will be very easy to sell that kayak for a good price and get a different one, as there is a huge market for second hand kayaks right now.
@@PaddleTV Also note...."Order a Sea Eagle today, and you'll get to try it for 120 days from the day you receive your boat, RISK FREE.
If you're not totally happy with your boat, just return it in good condition for a full refund of your purchase price.".
And also note, while other than the stability difference (which is not as bad as some say unless your a beginner or really out of shape), the Razorlite has a lot more pros than the AirVolution, and it's about $300 cheaper once you buy a paddle & pump for your AirVolution. Also a 3 year warranty vs a 1 year warranty. In an inflatable boat, the warranty matters more than some other products.
It really does look like an inflatable pack boat. Thanks, Ken. 👍🚣♂️
Yup. The line between kayaks and canoes has been getting muddier and muddier over the past few years.
I would be interested in a review on the tomahawk by aqua marina
It just so happens that I just tested that kayak! Stay tuned...
For extra space could you get the longer tandem model and paddle on your own??
Absolutely!
So you cannot use this Kayak for fishing in calm saltwater?
Can you configure the 473RL for a solo kayaker?
Any thoughts on whether the RazorLite 393 RL would be good for Lake Ontario (downtown Toronto)? I don’t have the room for a hard sided kayak, and am trying to decide between the 393 RL Sea Eagle and the 300 X Sea Eagle. The vast majority of my experience is in a sea kayak on the ocean in NS. Won’t be running rapids, but would like to be able to go out on windy days, as well as when the lake is flat.
The Razorlite would be good for Lake Ontario for sure. It's a wide open boat, and so it will fill with water if it's too rough out, but it will still float swamped. I think it would be a better choice for Lake Ontario than the 300X, unless your main goal is to surf the lake waves.
@@PaddleTV Thanks, much appreciated!
I got the 393RL at the end of June, and have used it 4 times, and love it! It isn’t a hard shell, but it is pretty damn great! Thanks for the help!
@@annegallop1100What has your experience with it been like long term? How's it handling on Lake Ontario? I'm also Toronto based, and just purchased this boat.
How would you compare this kayak to the Advanced Elements Airvolution that you reviewed in a different video?
The 393rl is a little faster, but gives up some stability for it. They say it's for intermediate +, and I would say that's accurate, while the AirVolution would be great for any level paddler. That help?
I see you have the footrests fully extended. I’m wondering how a tall person would do with this? Care to share your inseam and height?
I'm 6'2" with a 33-34" inseam. It's hard to tell from the video, but there was an additional 2" of footrest adjustment, and so I wasn't maxing it out. One of the nice things about this kayak, is that I didn't feel 'big' in it. My best guess... I think it could comfortably accommodate someone up to 6'5".
Anybody knows how does it compare to a Tomahawk AquaMarine drop stich one?
I tested the Tomahawk as well. Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/e3jPbU_dPu8/v-deo.html. If I had to choose, I would go for the 393rl. Not a big difference between the two... I just remember feeling more confident in the 393rl. I would need to paddle both of them again to give you more details on why I felt that way... which could be a good comparison video... hmmm
@@PaddleTV It would, wouldn't it. :D Saw the video ofc, best review of a said kayak on the internet. I don't have much choice here where I live anyway, Tomahawk is the only full drop stitch option I have so I'll probably go with that since you're saying there's not much of a difference between the two, and I got the impression that RazorLite is the prime example of DS kayaks.
@@PaddleTV that'd be a great video! :)
I've tried this boat, at least the tandem 473RL, and my initial impression was that unless someone was a very experienced paddler, they should not take this boat very far offshore even in the calmest weather. It is extremely unstable due to the overall design -- flat bottom and all drop stiched tubes -- has anyone thought about how difficult re-entry might be. You can tell from the video of this kayak, at least looking at it broadside, how unstable it is. I miss my Innova Helios II but alas Gumotex stopped making them.
Ultimately you either fall in the water and get wet or stay dry and get a little wet..
That removable skeg looks like literally the exact same one that came with my 90$ inflatable kayak. Seems like everything is high quality except that.
I have a 473 rl (the tandem version of the 393) I use it in the ocean it has been to several islands. I drag it on shore with the skeg digging into the ground as well as pivot it on the skeg. the skeg has gauges in it but has never come off... even hitting rocks with it. What I am saying is it is a lot tougher than it looks.
@@junbead9614 True. I guess it's a "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" situation. Seems like it works well enough.
My big question is: how is it that after 4+ years, this seems to be the only kayak in this category worth buying? Is the 393rl updated every year or no competitor even tries?
It is a great one! I've seen a few other similar kayaks out there, but haven't had a chance to try them yet. The Decathlon Itiwit 500 looks similar, but has a deck on it. The Aquamarina Tomahawk also looks interesting. Hope to try both of those soon...
@@PaddleTV I have been using Aquamarina (Tomahawk Air-K-440) for a year and I am in love! It would be great if you could review this drop stitch series from Aquamarina and compare it to Sea Eagle. What catches my eye are the better Sea Eagle footrests. The streamlined shape may be a bit better on Aquamarina. In turn, my friend has recently been using the Itiwit Strenfit X 500 drop stitch kayak and this is a real torpedo! One more step towards speed thanks to the narrow profile and V shape of the bottom. Thanks a lot for your great lessons in other videos. Greetings from Poland!
Do you think you could take a dog in this kayak? I'm going to be traveling in my truck camper and can't load/unload my beloved Crescent kayak UL on the camper. So I'm trying to sell it and get an inflatable but I don't want a "tug boat". I want a good paddler but I also want to be able to take my little buddy along.
You could totally take a dog on this kayak... although a big dog would definitely make it tippy. You might want to consider the Sea Eagle Fast Track, instead of the RazorLite. You give up some speed, but get more stability, which would make paddling with a dog a lot more relaxing.
Would you say it is not suitable for a beginner?
Inter
Best ib kayak ul
Can a person comfortably use a tandem razor lite kayak as a single person kayak.
Yes, but there is a downside... The downside is that the foot braces are positioned for 2-people, and so if you place a single seat in the middle of the kayak, you won't have foot braces/pegs. You could always DIY it, and create something to serve as foot braces, or use the kayak without foot braces, but it won't be as nice as having them.
Where can I buy a life jacket like you are wearing with the high back?
You can get that specific lifejacket from OutdoorPlay.com It's called the Chinook PFD. Here's a link. bit.ly/2TaEAG9
This could be for me. Do they export to the uk?
I don't know if they do. You'll have to contact them directly.
What paddle are you using?
It's the Aquabound Whiskey paddle - one of my all time favourites - aquabound.com/collections/high-angle/products/whiskey-fiberglass
@@PaddleTV thanks it really is a beautiful paddle
I wonder how you tie down or bungy down your gear?
There isn't a good option for tying down gear. It's more like a canoe in that way. Feels a little 'canoe-like' too!
There are D rings for securing the seat and a footrest. I was thinking you might be able to hook on to those.
Is it self bailing ?????
Yes, it has drain holes that you can open or close.
I was wondering how easy it is to get in and out of frm the water?
It's not hard. We have a video about 'How to get into a kayak smoothly' ua-cam.com/video/LOaSwKGExOc/v-deo.html
i'm a Noob. Thank you for the Video : A+.
Cheers!
Some people cut the skeg to be shorter
Interesting!