So much more information here for a novice kayaker than just "this one is comfortable, that one is stable." It is like a basic introduction to kayaking video mixed with a bit of a review. Thank you for this excellent video!
I'm a bigger guy.(260/5' 11") I just got the Pelican Mustang 120 and I love it. It feels stable and I fit comfortably in it. I spent 6hrs in it yesterday and have zero complaints, except I didn't catch any fish haha. I took it into some deeper water (18ft+) and felt comfortable but also was in shallow water(maybe a foot) and didn't bottoms out even though I'm I but heavier. Like he says if your a bigger person, definitely get a 12ft. I love being able to book it across the lake if I want to.
Another brilliant review - and you don't sell any of them! Great to have someone like you as part of the Kayak community; thanks for your efforts, cheers.
I love the gas mileage analogy! I really enjoy all these videos and as a 55 year old newb I feel incredibly lucky to have found this channel. Concise professional fun and packed with great information! Stoked to get my new lifetime stealth 11 foot fishing kayak out on the numerous waters in Washburn county Wisconsin! Over 30,000 acres of water to explore in my backyard, shark free, salt free. 😉
I really appreciate you including body mechanics while sitting in and paddling the boat. Great advice to try sitting in it before purchasing. So many people would give up if they're uncomfortable thinking it's too difficult, when maybe the problem is their body isn't compatible with the kayak. You're helping me narrow down which one to purchase!
I have the Kuna and my husband has the Teton. We switch often and I honestly don’t notice a difference between the two, other than the higher seat height of the Teton. He’s 6’3” and didn’t notice much of a difference either. These are our first kayaks so we can’t compare them to any others. But we love them. There is plenty of room to put our kids up front and we have enjoyed the lake and Salt river of Arizona. Thank you so much for your reviews and videos. You have taught us sooooo much!
I got the pelican pioneer this year and I have no complaints. I'm almost 300 pounds and it's pretty good. 450 bucks it's obviously not a hobie but for the money it's awesome. I've landed a 5 pound bass and just yesterday landed a 7 pound 25in walleye. Can't beat it for the $
You’re videos have been so helpful! Recently purchased a lifetime Teton as a first kayak to fish out of. I’m a 280 pound guy. I have already fished 12 hours in that kayak. I love it. Stable, easy, comfortable. Any newbies out there hoping to fish or wanting a super stable comfortable kayak this is the one.
A few years back I went full-in on paddling & fishing. I looked at a number of boats but just didn't feel comfortable. After much research I decided on the Old Town Solo Sportsman 119. I consider it to be a hybrid. Couldn't be happier. Using a kayak paddle, it handles & turns on a dime. And I always come to videos like this to keep the knowledge flowing... banks again
Haha well thanks for waiting. I locked my laptop in the truck over the weekend when I dropped the keys to my truck off the dock in 20’ of water. Thankfully a friend came out with scuba tanks to dive for them. Back in business now.
My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!
It’s funny ever since your review 1 - 2 years ago I’ve been seeing a ton of Tamerack and Tetons in our local waters! You’re making a huge impact! Keep it up!
Great reviews, I've had a Pelican Mustang 120 going onto my third year now and I do not regret it one bit. Fantastic base to add on more gear for fishing, pool noodle stuffing has made it unsinkable as long as I have a hand pup to empty the water. The rear well does tend to get very wet, primarily from paddle splash, though I made a compact kayak cart that fits perfectly on the rear tip and bungee's keep it on so it's with me when I get back to shore. I've pulled 13lb catfish while in the mustang 120 and quite honestly it handled perfectly fine.
Ive got the Pelican Pioneer 100XR kayak and I love it. Very comfortable, no problem with staying out for hours to fish. Paddles well as in pretty quick, decent tracking and great stability. Seems to be built well. Decent amount of storage. The waterproof bag does work. Ive been out fishing in the rain and my stuff stayed dry. And lastly nice and light even with the seat in it which makes for easy car topping, transport and storage. Over all a great kayak for the money. Just for reference Im about 5 foot 10 inches and 165 pounds and Im very comfortable in this kayak.
I picked up the second Kayak earlier this year as my first kayak and I'm really happy with it. Personally that seat adds a ton of value. It's good for tying off buckets & stringers and it makes hours long trips so much more comfortable. I might try a longer open top several years from now but even then I wouldn't be retiring this one.
Hi Dan, Great content, and thanks for embracing beginners (like me). Your reviews and tips are a gold mine for me. I just wish your shop was just a little bit closer to where I live. Keep up the great work and thanks again for helping us newer paddlers.
Dude, Thorough, unbiased and informative. You're unrivalled. Tip for box store yakers: Please cobble in sufficient closed cell foam blocks or inflatable float bags! Add an inexpensive hand pump to the mix as well. You'll be glad you did...
I’ve been looking to start kayaking because it looks like fun. I do like to research things as much as possible before jumping into them. I’ve asked questions from places around that sell kayaks and just random people hear and there. Lots of UA-cam videos. Without a doubt you have given more useful and practical information than anyone I’ve seen. I’m a buy guy at 270 and you have answered so many of my questions. Thank you for the video. Really appreciate it.
Bought the Blaze 97 Elite for my wife based on your review from last time. She has no problem with the seat. But then again, she is 5'6 130lbs. It paddles so much better than my Swifty 9.5.
I’m not even in the market for another kayak and yet I can’t help but watch your comparison videos because they’re so dang informative. Lol! I love the effort you put into each video. 👍🏻👍🏻
Good review, I just pick up a Pelican Sentinel Angler for fishing/exploring and love it so far. Had it in rough ocean water and calm rivers and performed well. As for the tracking you mentioned there is a reason the smaller fishing yaks don't track well and I believe it relates to "fish on". When you get pulled sideways by a big fish it increases the chances of you getting dumped if you are in a long well tracking kayak. The little 9.5 Anglers will spin around much easier when getting pulled by a fish allowing you to keep control.
Thank you for your time sir! Ive really enjoyed checking out your videos and tips over the past several weeks... Iv'e learned alot of great information... 🤙
I have a Teton angler and my wife has the Kuna. We both love our kayaks. I picked the Kuna up for $188 on black Friday so in my mind I couldn't go wrong for the price. Sure it's a simple kayak but we normally only paddle ponds and small lakes and canals so it does the job just fine.
Last years videos like this really got me excited for the sport and helped me identify and pick out my 1st kayak. I still continue to watch despite not needing any new equipment because I know I’ll always walk away learning something new.
Just paid off my new to me work truck, love being on the river, missing it terrible! Started looking at these today, glad I found your channel! Thank you
Bought three kayaks for the family in the last month. I bought the Lifetime Teton at Dick's for $449.00. I'm five ft 220 and I found it very wobbly, I did love the seat, but it seemed so slow. My son got the sun dolphin journey s10 at tractor supply for $329.00 and once I tried his I loved it and returned the Teton. Much more stable for me and faster. My husband got the Lifetime tamarack at tractor supply $300 and I did try it and liked it, but all they had was army green and I didn't like the color. His had some scratches so they gave him $30.00 off. All are sit ons, which I feel better about and ten footers. My husband is 5'11 and my son is 5', 12 yrs old. I love these reviews.
I'm a smaller person, (5'7, 130lbs) and got the Pioneer last summer. I absolutely love it. The seat is removable and when I pull it out, the kayak probably only ways 35lbs so I can easily throw it on my roof by myself. The knee pads are okay. After picking it up and moving it as much as I have, they have started to rip but that is probably more operating error. I put a dry bag inside the bag because I usually get some water into the storage, more from going in the top than going through the bag. I have practiced rescues on it, just because I wanted to make sure I would be able to. Without bulkheads, it obviously fills with water but it is buoyancy neutral so I keep a bilge pump with me and can empty it pretty easily. As far as balance, I walked on stilts as a kid so I'm fairly coordinated but I can stand on it. I can't do a headstand but it's pretty stable. I have to try to flip it. Anyway, super comfortable, fits my recreational style. I like paddling to the middle of the lake and jumping in and this kayak handles that. i have more canoeing experience than kayaking so I can't compare to other kayaks but I enjoy it.
Thanks Dan! I love the videos and information. We are new into kayaking and just picked up two Tetons for my wife and I. We haven’t gotten them on the water yet, but based on your reviews they seemed like the best choice for around $300. They felt very comfortable to sit in at the store compared to others. Dick’s has them on sale for $329 right now. Here’s to happy paddling!
Used your tip on getting in the kayak from a floating dock yesterday with the paddle as a stabilizer. Just wished I had seen it a day earlier as that's when I flipped kayak and head first into the water lmao
Well, as a fellow 6'2", 215lbs person, my advice up until last year would have been just look for a good second hand boat if you're a bigger person....but Covid kind of killed the market and used prices went crazy. It's amazing I have several kayaks I could resell for more than I paid a few years ago.
I got lucky and found 3 Sundolphin aruba 8fts for my kids for $200 with paddles and second hand lifejackets all in fair condition with lots of life in them still... Deals are out there but your exactly right... The second hand market for the most part is insanely rediculous atm... Good luck ✌️
Same here. Started with 3 kayaks stuck in Georgia as US-Canada border is closed and I'm up in Ontario. Wife had 2 here. Sold one and bought 4, 3 Pelicans and 1 Dagger. Now we have 8 total! Can't wait until the border opens and I can bring the other 3 up. Got my ones up here just prior to the prices skyrocketing.
Thank you so much!!!! The first kayak you reviewed is the one I have really been wanting the buy. I am a new kayaker at 65 and I so glad you told us about the person that couldn't get back in or get the water out. I need to research a bit more before I make the purchase. Again thank you cause I really want to go kayaking with my son and grandson out in Montana. This wouldn't be the right one.
Wow excellent video I appreciate it! I'm 6'2" 230 and I was about to buy the blitz because of the weight rating, good to know that 60% weight ratio you mentioned. Thanks!!!
I have the Teton and I'm 200lbs. While it tracks well in calm conditions it was very hard to keep straight in any current or wind. I'm also 6' 3" and I'm between foot molds. I added a deployable rudder with adjustable foot pedals (about $90 for everything) and it's made a world of difference on both of those issues.
Thanks again, your videos help educate people with more knowledge about kayaks, so they can make a better first time buy that will put them in a boat they will have for a longer time and be more satisfied with it.
As someone who was looking to get the Field and Streams Blade, everyone on youtube was trashing it. I was confused cause looking at it the design seemed to be good. You actually testing it and saying it is in fact good has confirmed to me they didn't actually test it and were trashing it for being "cheap". Also confirmed to me your authenticity and making you the best kayaking channel in my book.
We bought the Teton as our guest use a kayak for taking along friends. It keeps up well with our more premier kayaks, like my NuCanoe. One of our friends finds it easy to use with her 45 lb dog where we've done 8 mile floats on a river. Also, we had an issue when we lost a seat during transport (possible theft at gas station snack run). Lifetime customer service was amazing in helping us get a replacement seat.
Thanks Dan. I ended up with a FS Blade Elite 97. It does indeed Paddle great. BUT the seat is everything you said it'd be. The back seems to compress down into the lower seat at the hinge causing a mild pinch or more like a bunching up below the belt line. The back also seems to almost fold around the rear adjustment strap. :/ Some fixes: 1. Quick and easy. A 1.5" thick sitting pad from ace hardware. 2. Perhaps a couple nut / bolt / washer combo at the canvas seam to attach it to the seat box as this seems to be the culprit of the problem. Over all the seat is no big deal compared to the kayak itself which is great. I added an 8" dry storage hatch and bag that went in perfectly to the 5 gallon bucket spot in the rear well. Also allows easy access to add rear float bag.
Mega tips! I just picked up the 1st gen Blade 97 today. Will be doing the 8” dry storage mod you listed and potentially a Rod holder, dry storage up front (basically spec-ing it up to the new one) Happy paddling dude. Thanks for the hacks
Just wanted to say great content. As a 320# 6'7" male looking for first kayak I've found most things aren't suited for me. Costs is upward of $1k, and mostly explored convertible tandoms or fishing kayak were I wont fish. Life is same in my size with cars, RV's, etc. Learned a lot of general info from your vids from storage, sitting support, foot rest/leg, paddling tips, etc. These vids are way more wealth of information than the kayak reviews and beginners should watch from intro to credits. With inventory challenges very few are in stores to try, it's all online drop ship from mfg as produced. With that, my size, and storage/transport challenge I ended up with a Star Pargon XL Inflatable. I'm praying it works out well. I have fears of blowing a welded seam on the river and need to be rescued so I'm starting to fear my choice of inflatable. That or I stick to inland lakes in semi populated areas/campground which there are a lot of in Michigan so I can swim ashore. Need to learn and carry onsite patching but will have to avoid river trips for now where breakin down river side could mean miles and miles through woods and impassable terrain to a road.
I own a Teton. I just borrowed a Pelican Rebel 100XR on vacation and did a review on it (that I’m posting Friday) and I said the SAME THING you did: The Teton tracks WAY better than the Pelican. I love my Teton more and more everyday. You CAN’T beat it for the price.
I’m new to kayaking and this video provided much of the critical information one must consider in choosing a kayak. Good job and thank you for posting.
I have a pair of 10' Pelicans. I have had other touring kayaks. The Pelicans are the lightest on the market making them easier to handle and load. I'm very pleased.
Thanks for talking about kayaking techniques while doing the review. Watching this cause I'm not even sure if I want to get into kayaking, but this additional information is really helping with the decision.
I weigh 142 lbs. Im not a fisherman but really like the idea of a sit-on kayak. just looking for something to float around on, get in the water and relax after I finish my bike rides. I think the Blitz looks like the one for me. Somebody in my area selling 2 Kuna's for $500 but I am glad I watched this video first. As somebody who has never kayak'd before and knows nothing about kayaking this was extremely informative. Thank You!
Love to see a review of sub $1000 boats, especially sit on tops, say WS Tarpon, Perception Pescador Pro, Jackson Cruise etc, stuff with good seats and suitable for fishing and recreational river running.
It was a big bummer to see the price hike on all these kayaks. I was watching your videos from a year or 2 ago wondering to myself "How is he finding these for under 200???" lol
Mustang 120X holding at 499 a year later; I just got and tried out the Mustang 100X at 399 but decided to swap out for the 120X, preferring to have the 24.5" width of it vs the 30" of the 100X, and the better inherent paddling characteristics of the longer one.
Man so glad you make these videos. I would've hated getting that pelican and not knowing it might take on water. I'm 230 and wanna do a lot of river kayaking. So thanks for showing me that might not be the best option for that.
So my roomie and I started kayaking last summer (like a lot of people did) and I went on quite a journey to find a good kayak for me. Max and I actually tried quite a few lower cost kayaks on that journey. I started with the F&S Blade and Max started with the Lifetime Cruze as the Blade's cockpit didn't fit him. I will give the F&S Blade that it was quite comfortable but it was too small for Max. I probably would have stopped there if there hadn't been a HUGE quality issue with it. Within about a month of regular use, both the seat and the foot pegs were broken and the plastic was starting to warp from being stored on a covered patio when it was in the 90s outside, it was garbage in about 6 weeks and I had a very hard time getting them to stand behind their product and could not get replacement parts. The Lifetime Cruze was actually a nice, bear bones sit in, but it was still a little small and slow for Max, so we gave it to a friend of ours who still has and loves it. Next I got the Pelican Argo 100EXO and Max got the Pelican Mustang 120EXO and the journey stopped there for Max I HIGHLY recommend the Mustang 120, that thing is bulletproof! It glides well, holds way more than the weight it is rated for and maneuvers really well considering we paid $300 on sale for it. The straps on it even came undone on the HWY going 65 mph and it BOUNCED onto the shoulder and survived other than a few cosmetic scrapes. Max LOVES that kayak! I wasn't super impressed with the Argo though, mostly because I have some nerve damage and muscle weakness in my arms and on calm water it's fine, but ANY wind and it just gets thrown all over the place and I personally wasn't able to control it, but since it was new I sold it to a friend for what I paid for it and he still has it and loves it, but is a bigger guy who is better able to control it. Next, I got the Emotion Revel and really liked it, it was pretty smooth and tracked well and the skeg wheel made it much easier to haul around. It was definitely my favorite of the "bargain" kayaks that we tried, but for my birthday, my parents and a few of my friends I kayak with surprised me with an Old town Heron 11XT and WOW the difference once you even get into the lower end expensive kayaks is night and day, even being on the cheaper side for an old town kayak it does everything WAY better and I love it. I was going to keep the Emotion kayak as a spare, but recently moved and didn't have a place to store a 3rd kayak so sold it to a friend for her kids who love it.
Excellent excellent review! I am still shopping for my first kayak. Frankly, it’s going to have to be a budget model because I’m 70, out of shape, and kayaking may not turn out to be my thing. Just paddling on slow flat water fishing for me. Thanks so much for your opinions hand tips.
Awesome review on both parts of this video. I especially appreciate the teaching that you do throughout. I have been kayaking several times on rivers and a couple of times in protected bays in Cape Cod. I have always rented sit in kayaks but I'm shopping for sit on for safety in my local waters (Cape Cod) and I don't know a ton about the terminology and build of the boats themselves so I really appreciate the extra effort you put into your reviews. Thanks so much!
The very first things I learned about kayaking came from watching one of Dan’s videos and I really appreciate him sharing his expertise and thoughts…especially on cheaper kayaks. My gf and I are in our late 40s and we wanted to get into paddling….we’re both in decent enough shape physically but neither of us have ever been in a kayak. It’s also not a hugely popular sport where we live and we didn’t have a ton of options as far as where to shop. A few wks ago she she was at Sams club and they had two kayaks on clearance for $175…Lifetime Kenai Pro Angler…I was very skeptical due to the low price and there was limited info online about this model. I stopped on my way home from work to see them in person and we decided to go for it…Lifetime is a well known brand and it was two 10’ kayaks for less than the cost of one at any other place we’d looked. And then I learned the Kenai is essentially the exact same kayak as the Lifetime Teton just with a different color scheme. We still haven’t found time to get on the water but I’ve been learning about the sport from Dan’s videos and I’m feeling a lot better about our purchase after seeing what he’s had to say about the Teton. Thank you Dan for sharing your knowledge in a way that feels welcoming to someone new to the sport.
Just took my blitz out for the first time on a large river. I'm only 5'7 so it's comfortable for me with lots of room. I actually got rocked with a large wake from a boat on my side when I wasn't paying attention (face timing someone) and the kayak really held itself well without my help so your feedback on the stability makes sense. I really enjoyed it though as a newbie paddler. I had no issues besides the tracking you experienced. However I'm still learning so it may improve once my paddling improves.
My first sit on top kayak was a Lifetime Triton model and it's build nearly exact like the Kuna reviewed here. Obviously not the best, but for the price, it's fun to take on calm waters. It does not track well and in windy conditions it spins on me. Perhaps an upgrade is due soon. I also have a secondhand Dagger 10.5 axis sit in and that cuts through the water. Thanks for the review!
Loved the Reviews! Thank you, really helps us beginners. I waited to long last year but got my Mustang this year. I learned a lot with last years reviews that helped with my purchase this year. Had my maiden voyage yesterday. Loads of fun!!
I really enjoy your honest reviews and completely put my faith in them when I bought my Blade 2 years ago based on your review a few years back. They must have changed the design to this one you review here by the time I bought it. I do love it tho! However, the seat sucks. Maybe I need to learn how to adjust it better to my back, but it definitely became obvious on a 9.8 mile trip last summer. I have always had back issues to an extent but the pain a couple days after that trip was unreal. I definitely need to rig it somehow before I paddle that route again this year. Otherwise, absolutely no complaints!
I tried to take you advice about a longer boat. Opted for an 11 foot over a 10 hoping to have an easier experience paddling. I got the lifetime stealth fishing kayak. It's a decision I regret. I mean it's not completely awful but it doesn't work for me. The wind pushes it to much. It doesn't go straight always wobbles left and right. And it's heavy and awkward. So for someone on the shorter side like me (I'm only 4'9") I'd honestly recommend getting the shorter boat. Maybe they do wobble but so does the big one. And your chances of getting hurt with the little one are less. It fell off my car while trying to reload and busted me in the chin, now I look like an domestic violence victim.
Great video, I picked up the 12' Field and Stream Blade and love it. You were spot on though, the pads on the side are already peeling up, and they placed on massively crooked. Not sure if that was Dick's or F&S. No seat problems yet.
Last year, my 2 10ft Pelicans were lost in the Dixie Fire. I replaced one with a Pelican Mustang. I usually have my lab with me when I kayak, and as much as I love my purple Pelican, it seems that the cockpit is a bit more confined than the ones I lost. Eiither that or my dog and I have gained more weight than I thought. Still love my Pelican, though .
I'm going to pick up my Blade 97 on Wednesday. I'm looking forward the upgrade on stability, tracking, & durability. I currently have a Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 (lol). I can always install/modify knee pads & seat features when needed on the Blade.
So we rented kayaks for a river trip. We rented simple SOT boats. 12'ers. Enjoyed it so much we went to Dicks and bough a couple. We both wanted the Pelican Strike 100 NXT SOT which is essentially the Blitz you reviewed with a basket on the back instead of that enclosed thing yours had. They only had one so I got the Sit In version (same Strike 100 NXT) which is more like the pioneer reviewed but with the same seat as the blitz. First thing we both noticed.... The 10 footers do NOT track as easily as the 12. Which is a bummer in the lake. I think on the river trip we went on that actually would have been nicer. The river we live near is pretty narrow, pretty shallow and full of things to navigate around. But we live on a lake and didn't consider that. I'm debating on buying a fixed rudder or keel extension, whatever you want to call it to help her track better.
Due in no small part to this review, I picked up a Lifetime Teton Angler 100 a couple days ago at Dick's for $329 after sitting in it and, at 6'2" 185 lbs., finding the seat amd footrest positioning comfortable. For a minimal cash outlay for a first kayak it will get my 60 something year old bones on the water. (Now the accessory tracks are orange plastic and the paddle bungee is the same color and thickness as the deck bungees.)
The Mustang 100 is at the top of my list right now...looking to get into kayaking for the first time...the 120 seems nice but due to transportation and storage room the 100 makes more sense. Love your videos man!
Dan-you’re the Man! Love your passion-I’m 59, and picking up the sport! About to pull trigger on my first Kayak and would love your advice: Lifetime Teton 10’ or Field & Stream Axe 12’? I lean towards the Axe because tracking and glide are most important. Problem is: I cannot find much info on the Axe. Is it a new release? Very few reviews...
I have a vanquish 120 pretty good boat in Rough water . The cockpit is huge though I added a rod holder in the front on land sitting in it on the water I cant reach it lol . The ergoform seat in yours I'd like to have in mine . I like the longer kayaks I'm almost 250 and I always look for adjustable foot pedals . I'm by far no expert and get caught in crappy situations like the 3 km wind turns to 30 . I've always enjoyed your videos keep them coming . Thanks for all your information you give out has helped me a ton . The mustang 120 is similar to the Vanquish 120
Great review. I work at Dicks and your opinion meshes nicely. 12 ft blade is very very nice. Thanks for the feedback on the seat. Disappointing. Thanks
Have you considered reviewing some of the inflatables? Particularly the nicer ones. I recently picked up a 15’ advanced elements advanceframe tandem (but can be set up for single paddler) inflatable as my first kayak. I got it used for a lot less than new price, and the fact that it can go behind the back seats in my focus hatch is a huge plus
Just bought a pair of Pelican Argo (Pioneer) 100XR's for my wife and I. We are hoping the chair style seats provide better back support (important in mid-50s) but haven't had a chance to get on the river yet. At 6'2"/250lbs, I wish it were available in a 12 foot model - 10 foot kayaks just feel undersized for me.
@@FAZWORTH421 I have not. Summer got a little crazy with short notice weddings and then I caught covid. We have plans the next few weekends so hopefully after that. The Mississippi is pretty high and moving fast so happy to let it go down a bit.
The review on these are great! There is big difference in "enclosed" and "open" deck kayaks. Would be great to see an "open deck" fishing kayak review. These two types of kayaks are very different for fishermen...
thanks for your channel and your reviews. I'm about to buy my first kayak, and your honest reviews helped me to make a decision. I HAD decided on the 10' Pelican Mustang, but after watching this I think I'll go ahead and spend the extra $100 for the 12'.
Thank you so much for all of your videos! I am just getting back into kayaking and they have all been so helpful. Do you have any recommendations for 8 foot kayaks?
The only thing I recommend an 8’ kayak for is whitewater. Any 8’ recreational kayak is going to paddle very poorly. Just like the 12’ being significantly better than a 10’ the 10’ is significantly better than an 8’. If space or transport is an issue I’d look at a folding kayak or good 10-12’ inflatable.
Can you do a video on rivers w currents. I live on the Hudson River (level 3 river) and would love a kayak so I can utilize the river. I only have a flat bottom lake kayak.
Dick's has the Bandit NXT 100 ($299.98) and the Teton Angler 100 ($349.98) on sale. We are newbies and looking to purchase new kayaks to get out on the water. Initially I was leaning towards the Bandit, but after seeing this video review, I think I've decided on the Teton. Of course, we still need to test out the comfort of the seat and feet holds. Wish us luck! And, like others have said, thank you for these videos. They are so helpful, insightful, entertaining and straight forward. Keep up the great work. For newbies, maybe a video on the difference between recreational and fishing kayaks. I was initially disregarding the fishing type, but think that might be the best bet for my needs. lol!
Great video! I know you've already reviewed the Tamarack Pro but it's such a great kayak to mention in this price range! It costs less than the teton, has adjustable foot pegs and is even more stable!
Something you might mention the next time you do one of these rec kayak fleet reviews is the advantage of having a mesh-back pfd for the high-back seats and back rests. I and other find many of the typical foam-back pdfs interfere with the high-back seats making it harder to get in the kayak and sit in the seat comfortably/properly. Fine review though!!
So much more information here for a novice kayaker than just "this one is comfortable, that one is stable." It is like a basic introduction to kayaking video mixed with a bit of a review. Thank you for this excellent video!
I'm a bigger guy.(260/5' 11") I just got the Pelican Mustang 120 and I love it. It feels stable and I fit comfortably in it. I spent 6hrs in it yesterday and have zero complaints, except I didn't catch any fish haha. I took it into some deeper water (18ft+) and felt comfortable but also was in shallow water(maybe a foot) and didn't bottoms out even though I'm I but heavier. Like he says if your a bigger person, definitely get a 12ft. I love being able to book it across the lake if I want to.
Another brilliant review - and you don't sell any of them! Great to have someone like you as part of the Kayak community; thanks for your efforts, cheers.
I love the gas mileage analogy! I really enjoy all these videos and as a 55 year old newb I feel incredibly lucky to have found this channel. Concise professional fun and packed with great information! Stoked to get my new lifetime stealth 11 foot fishing kayak out on the numerous waters in Washburn county Wisconsin! Over 30,000 acres of water to explore in my backyard, shark free, salt free. 😉
I really appreciate you including body mechanics while sitting in and paddling the boat. Great advice to try sitting in it before purchasing. So many people would give up if they're uncomfortable thinking it's too difficult, when maybe the problem is their body isn't compatible with the kayak. You're helping me narrow down which one to purchase!
Awesome video! I would Love to see a video of your favorite kayak roof racks for suvs/cars with roof top rails. Thanks
I have the Kuna and my husband has the Teton. We switch often and I honestly don’t notice a difference between the two, other than the higher seat height of the Teton. He’s 6’3” and didn’t notice much of a difference either. These are our first kayaks so we can’t compare them to any others. But we love them. There is plenty of room to put our kids up front and we have enjoyed the lake and Salt river of Arizona. Thank you so much for your reviews and videos. You have taught us sooooo much!
I got the pelican pioneer this year and I have no complaints. I'm almost 300 pounds and it's pretty good. 450 bucks it's obviously not a hobie but for the money it's awesome. I've landed a 5 pound bass and just yesterday landed a 7 pound 25in walleye. Can't beat it for the $
You’re videos have been so helpful! Recently purchased a lifetime Teton as a first kayak to fish out of. I’m a 280 pound guy. I have already fished 12 hours in that kayak. I love it. Stable, easy, comfortable. Any newbies out there hoping to fish or wanting a super stable comfortable kayak this is the one.
A few years back I went full-in on paddling & fishing. I looked at a number of boats but just didn't feel comfortable. After much research I decided on the Old Town Solo Sportsman 119. I consider it to be a hybrid. Couldn't be happier. Using a kayak paddle, it handles & turns on a dime. And I always come to videos like this to keep the knowledge flowing... banks again
I’ve been refreshing UA-cam for 4 days, waiting for this video! Thank you!
Haha well thanks for waiting. I locked my laptop in the truck over the weekend when I dropped the keys to my truck off the dock in 20’ of water. Thankfully a friend came out with scuba tanks to dive for them. Back in business now.
@@HeadwatersKayak Oh no! Haha! Im glad you recovered them.
Same lol
Same
@@HeadwatersKayak I think I used that excuse when I forgot to do my homework once...either way glad to see the video!! Haha
My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!
It’s funny ever since your review 1 - 2 years ago I’ve been seeing a ton of Tamerack and Tetons in our local waters! You’re making a huge impact! Keep it up!
Great reviews, I've had a Pelican Mustang 120 going onto my third year now and I do not regret it one bit.
Fantastic base to add on more gear for fishing, pool noodle stuffing has made it unsinkable as long as I have a hand pup to empty the water.
The rear well does tend to get very wet, primarily from paddle splash, though I made a compact kayak cart that fits perfectly on the rear tip and bungee's keep it on so it's with me when I get back to shore.
I've pulled 13lb catfish while in the mustang 120 and quite honestly it handled perfectly fine.
Ive got the Pelican Pioneer 100XR kayak and I love it. Very comfortable, no problem with staying out for hours to fish. Paddles well as in pretty quick, decent tracking and great stability. Seems to be built well. Decent amount of storage. The waterproof bag does work. Ive been out fishing in the rain and my stuff stayed dry. And lastly nice and light even with the seat in it which makes for easy car topping, transport and storage. Over all a great kayak for the money. Just for reference Im about 5 foot 10 inches and 165 pounds and Im very comfortable in this kayak.
How much you pay? Still like it?
@@Evadingmoto when I picked it up I think I had paid around $479 for it. And yes I still have it and still like it.
I picked up the second Kayak earlier this year as my first kayak and I'm really happy with it.
Personally that seat adds a ton of value.
It's good for tying off buckets & stringers and it makes hours long trips so much more comfortable.
I might try a longer open top several years from now but even then I wouldn't be retiring this one.
Hi Dan,
Great content, and thanks for embracing beginners (like me). Your reviews and tips are a gold mine for me. I just wish your shop was just a little bit closer to where I live. Keep up the great work and thanks again for helping us newer paddlers.
Dude,
Thorough, unbiased and informative.
You're unrivalled.
Tip for box store yakers:
Please cobble in sufficient closed cell foam blocks or inflatable float bags! Add an inexpensive hand pump to the mix as well.
You'll be glad you did...
I’ve been looking to start kayaking because it looks like fun. I do like to research things as much as possible before jumping into them. I’ve asked questions from places around that sell kayaks and just random people hear and there. Lots of UA-cam videos. Without a doubt you have given more useful and practical information than anyone I’ve seen. I’m a buy guy at 270 and you have answered so many of my questions. Thank you for the video. Really appreciate it.
Great video. I really like how thoroughly you review these. Thank you!
Bought the Blaze 97 Elite for my wife based on your review from last time. She has no problem with the seat. But then again, she is 5'6 130lbs. It paddles so much better than my Swifty 9.5.
I just bought the Blade based on your review of the older generation. I love it. Great boat for the money.
I’m not even in the market for another kayak and yet I can’t help but watch your comparison videos because they’re so dang informative. Lol! I love the effort you put into each video. 👍🏻👍🏻
Good review, I just pick up a Pelican Sentinel Angler for fishing/exploring and love it so far. Had it in rough ocean water and calm rivers and performed well. As for the tracking you mentioned there is a reason the smaller fishing yaks don't track well and I believe it relates to "fish on". When you get pulled sideways by a big fish it increases the chances of you getting dumped if you are in a long well tracking kayak. The little 9.5 Anglers will spin around much easier when getting pulled by a fish allowing you to keep control.
Thank you for your time sir! Ive really enjoyed checking out your videos and tips over the past several weeks... Iv'e learned alot of great information... 🤙
I have a Teton angler and my wife has the Kuna. We both love our kayaks. I picked the Kuna up for $188 on black Friday so in my mind I couldn't go wrong for the price. Sure it's a simple kayak but we normally only paddle ponds and small lakes and canals so it does the job just fine.
Last years videos like this really got me excited for the sport and helped me identify and pick out my 1st kayak. I still continue to watch despite not needing any new equipment because I know I’ll always walk away learning something new.
Just paid off my new to me work truck, love being on the river, missing it terrible! Started looking at these today, glad I found your channel! Thank you
Bought three kayaks for the family in the last month. I bought the Lifetime Teton at Dick's for $449.00. I'm five ft 220 and I found it very wobbly, I did love the seat, but it seemed so slow. My son got the sun dolphin journey s10 at tractor supply for $329.00 and once I tried his I loved it and returned the Teton. Much more stable for me and faster. My husband got the Lifetime tamarack at tractor supply $300 and I did try it and liked it, but all they had was army green and I didn't like the color. His had some scratches so they gave him $30.00 off. All are sit ons, which I feel better about and ten footers. My husband is 5'11 and my son is 5', 12 yrs old. I love these reviews.
Nice headstand I definitely would have been in the water if I had tried that ! LoL
Thanks for reviewing! About to purchase my first Kayak and took detailed notes throughout the entire video and narrowed it down!
I'm a smaller person, (5'7, 130lbs) and got the Pioneer last summer. I absolutely love it. The seat is removable and when I pull it out, the kayak probably only ways 35lbs so I can easily throw it on my roof by myself. The knee pads are okay. After picking it up and moving it as much as I have, they have started to rip but that is probably more operating error. I put a dry bag inside the bag because I usually get some water into the storage, more from going in the top than going through the bag.
I have practiced rescues on it, just because I wanted to make sure I would be able to. Without bulkheads, it obviously fills with water but it is buoyancy neutral so I keep a bilge pump with me and can empty it pretty easily.
As far as balance, I walked on stilts as a kid so I'm fairly coordinated but I can stand on it. I can't do a headstand but it's pretty stable. I have to try to flip it.
Anyway, super comfortable, fits my recreational style. I like paddling to the middle of the lake and jumping in and this kayak handles that. i have more canoeing experience than kayaking so I can't compare to other kayaks but I enjoy it.
Thanks Dan! I love the videos and information. We are new into kayaking and just picked up two Tetons for my wife and I. We haven’t gotten them on the water yet, but based on your reviews they seemed like the best choice for around $300. They felt very comfortable to sit in at the store compared to others. Dick’s has them on sale for $329 right now. Here’s to happy paddling!
Used your tip on getting in the kayak from a floating dock yesterday with the paddle as a stabilizer. Just wished I had seen it a day earlier as that's when I flipped kayak and head first into the water lmao
You literally sound just like Tom Hanks. Great video, thanks for all the info! I'll try and stop by sometime, I'm out in Livermore!
Sounds like Nicolas Cage.
Well, as a fellow 6'2", 215lbs person, my advice up until last year would have been just look for a good second hand boat if you're a bigger person....but Covid kind of killed the market and used prices went crazy. It's amazing I have several kayaks I could resell for more than I paid a few years ago.
I got lucky and found 3 Sundolphin aruba 8fts for my kids for $200 with paddles and second hand lifejackets all in fair condition with lots of life in them still... Deals are out there but your exactly right... The second hand market for the most part is insanely rediculous atm... Good luck ✌️
Same here. Started with 3 kayaks stuck in Georgia as US-Canada border is closed and I'm up in Ontario. Wife had 2 here. Sold one and bought 4, 3 Pelicans and 1 Dagger. Now we have 8 total! Can't wait until the border opens and I can bring the other 3 up. Got my ones up here just prior to the prices skyrocketing.
Thank you so much!!!! The first kayak you reviewed is the one I have really been wanting the buy. I am a new kayaker at 65 and I so glad you told us about the person that couldn't get back in or get the water out. I need to research a bit more before I make the purchase. Again thank you cause I really want to go kayaking with my son and grandson out in Montana. This wouldn't be the right one.
These multi boat comparisons videos are great! More please!
Wow excellent video I appreciate it! I'm 6'2" 230 and I was about to buy the blitz because of the weight rating, good to know that 60% weight ratio you mentioned.
Thanks!!!
I have the Teton and I'm 200lbs. While it tracks well in calm conditions it was very hard to keep straight in any current or wind. I'm also 6' 3" and I'm between foot molds. I added a deployable rudder with adjustable foot pedals (about $90 for everything) and it's made a world of difference on both of those issues.
Thanks again, your videos help educate people with more knowledge about kayaks, so they can make a better first time buy that will put them in a boat they will have for a longer time and be more satisfied with it.
As someone who was looking to get the Field and Streams Blade, everyone on youtube was trashing it. I was confused cause looking at it the design seemed to be good. You actually testing it and saying it is in fact good has confirmed to me they didn't actually test it and were trashing it for being "cheap". Also confirmed to me your authenticity and making you the best kayaking channel in my book.
We bought the Teton as our guest use a kayak for taking along friends. It keeps up well with our more premier kayaks, like my NuCanoe. One of our friends finds it easy to use with her 45 lb dog where we've done 8 mile floats on a river. Also, we had an issue when we lost a seat during transport (possible theft at gas station snack run). Lifetime customer service was amazing in helping us get a replacement seat.
Thanks Dan. I ended up with a FS Blade Elite 97. It does indeed Paddle great.
BUT the seat is everything you said it'd be. The back seems to compress down into the lower seat at the hinge causing a mild pinch or more like a bunching up below the belt line. The back also seems to almost fold around the rear adjustment strap. :/
Some fixes:
1. Quick and easy. A 1.5" thick sitting pad from ace hardware.
2. Perhaps a couple nut / bolt / washer combo at the canvas seam to attach it to the seat box as this seems to be the culprit of the problem.
Over all the seat is no big deal compared to the kayak itself which is great.
I added an 8" dry storage hatch and bag that went in perfectly to the 5 gallon bucket spot in the rear well. Also allows easy access to add rear float bag.
Mega tips!
I just picked up the 1st gen Blade 97 today. Will be doing the 8” dry storage mod you listed and potentially a Rod holder, dry storage up front (basically spec-ing it up to the new one)
Happy paddling dude.
Thanks for the hacks
@@heymanmotorsports49 Yeah it is really easy to do with a drimel and the grout removal bit (for the tool). And very functional.
@@OffGridandOutdoors awesome!
Thanks my man
Just wanted to say great content. As a 320# 6'7" male looking for first kayak I've found most things aren't suited for me. Costs is upward of $1k, and mostly explored convertible tandoms or fishing kayak were I wont fish. Life is same in my size with cars, RV's, etc. Learned a lot of general info from your vids from storage, sitting support, foot rest/leg, paddling tips, etc. These vids are way more wealth of information than the kayak reviews and beginners should watch from intro to credits. With inventory challenges very few are in stores to try, it's all online drop ship from mfg as produced. With that, my size, and storage/transport challenge I ended up with a Star Pargon XL Inflatable. I'm praying it works out well. I have fears of blowing a welded seam on the river and need to be rescued so I'm starting to fear my choice of inflatable. That or I stick to inland lakes in semi populated areas/campground which there are a lot of in Michigan so I can swim ashore. Need to learn and carry onsite patching but will have to avoid river trips for now where breakin down river side could mean miles and miles through woods and impassable terrain to a road.
Good luck, Godzilla!
I don't need another kayak but I enjoy watching your videos. I always learn something new. Keep the vids coming. Thanks
I own a Teton.
I just borrowed a Pelican Rebel 100XR on vacation and did a review on it (that I’m posting Friday) and I said the SAME THING you did:
The Teton tracks WAY better than the Pelican.
I love my Teton more and more everyday. You CAN’T beat it for the price.
I’m new to kayaking and this video provided much of the critical information one must consider in choosing a kayak. Good job and thank you for posting.
Thanks for the video! Love the way you break everything down and go over the basics in a lot of these videos us noobies click on
I have a pair of 10' Pelicans. I have had other touring kayaks. The Pelicans are the lightest on the market making them easier to handle and load. I'm very pleased.
Thanks for talking about kayaking techniques while doing the review. Watching this cause I'm not even sure if I want to get into kayaking, but this additional information is really helping with the decision.
I weigh 142 lbs. Im not a fisherman but really like the idea of a sit-on kayak. just looking for something to float around on, get in the water and relax after I finish my bike rides. I think the Blitz looks like the one for me. Somebody in my area selling 2 Kuna's for $500 but I am glad I watched this video first. As somebody who has never kayak'd before and knows nothing about kayaking this was extremely informative. Thank You!
Glad this video helped. Thanks for watching!
I actually work at Dicks these videos are awesome to show people coming in to buy kayaks.
Love to see a review of sub $1000 boats, especially sit on tops, say WS Tarpon, Perception Pescador Pro, Jackson Cruise etc, stuff with good seats and suitable for fishing and recreational river running.
It was a big bummer to see the price hike on all these kayaks. I was watching your videos from a year or 2 ago wondering to myself "How is he finding these for under 200???" lol
Yup!
I bought my Teton last year for $350 (and was mad that I waited because it WAS $330)
NOW it’s like $430. Insane!
The mustang is now 499.00 at dicks and the Teton is 449.00.
Kuna is 129 at dicks right now!
Mustang 120X holding at 499 a year later; I just got and tried out the Mustang 100X at 399 but decided to swap out for the 120X, preferring to have the 24.5" width of it vs the 30" of the 100X, and the better inherent paddling characteristics of the longer one.
Man so glad you make these videos. I would've hated getting that pelican and not knowing it might take on water. I'm 230 and wanna do a lot of river kayaking. So thanks for showing me that might not be the best option for that.
Thanks man, glad to hear the video helped!
So my roomie and I started kayaking last summer (like a lot of people did) and I went on quite a journey to find a good kayak for me. Max and I actually tried quite a few lower cost kayaks on that journey. I started with the F&S Blade and Max started with the Lifetime Cruze as the Blade's cockpit didn't fit him. I will give the F&S Blade that it was quite comfortable but it was too small for Max. I probably would have stopped there if there hadn't been a HUGE quality issue with it. Within about a month of regular use, both the seat and the foot pegs were broken and the plastic was starting to warp from being stored on a covered patio when it was in the 90s outside, it was garbage in about 6 weeks and I had a very hard time getting them to stand behind their product and could not get replacement parts. The Lifetime Cruze was actually a nice, bear bones sit in, but it was still a little small and slow for Max, so we gave it to a friend of ours who still has and loves it. Next I got the Pelican Argo 100EXO and Max got the Pelican Mustang 120EXO and the journey stopped there for Max I HIGHLY recommend the Mustang 120, that thing is bulletproof! It glides well, holds way more than the weight it is rated for and maneuvers really well considering we paid $300 on sale for it. The straps on it even came undone on the HWY going 65 mph and it BOUNCED onto the shoulder and survived other than a few cosmetic scrapes. Max LOVES that kayak! I wasn't super impressed with the Argo though, mostly because I have some nerve damage and muscle weakness in my arms and on calm water it's fine, but ANY wind and it just gets thrown all over the place and I personally wasn't able to control it, but since it was new I sold it to a friend for what I paid for it and he still has it and loves it, but is a bigger guy who is better able to control it. Next, I got the Emotion Revel and really liked it, it was pretty smooth and tracked well and the skeg wheel made it much easier to haul around. It was definitely my favorite of the "bargain" kayaks that we tried, but for my birthday, my parents and a few of my friends I kayak with surprised me with an Old town Heron 11XT and WOW the difference once you even get into the lower end expensive kayaks is night and day, even being on the cheaper side for an old town kayak it does everything WAY better and I love it. I was going to keep the Emotion kayak as a spare, but recently moved and didn't have a place to store a 3rd kayak so sold it to a friend for her kids who love it.
Excellent excellent review! I am still shopping for my first kayak. Frankly, it’s going to have to be a budget model because I’m 70, out of shape, and kayaking may not turn out to be my thing. Just paddling on slow flat water fishing for me. Thanks so much for your opinions hand tips.
Awesome review on both parts of this video. I especially appreciate the teaching that you do throughout. I have been kayaking several times on rivers and a couple of times in protected bays in Cape Cod. I have always rented sit in kayaks but I'm shopping for sit on for safety in my local waters (Cape Cod) and I don't know a ton about the terminology and build of the boats themselves so I really appreciate the extra effort you put into your reviews. Thanks so much!
The very first things I learned about kayaking came from watching one of Dan’s videos and I really appreciate him sharing his expertise and thoughts…especially on cheaper kayaks. My gf and I are in our late 40s and we wanted to get into paddling….we’re both in decent enough shape physically but neither of us have ever been in a kayak. It’s also not a hugely popular sport where we live and we didn’t have a ton of options as far as where to shop.
A few wks ago she she was at Sams club and they had two kayaks on clearance for $175…Lifetime Kenai Pro Angler…I was very skeptical due to the low price and there was limited info online about this model. I stopped on my way home from work to see them in person and we decided to go for it…Lifetime is a well known brand and it was two 10’ kayaks for less than the cost of one at any other place we’d looked. And then I learned the Kenai is essentially the exact same kayak as the Lifetime Teton just with a different color scheme. We still haven’t found time to get on the water but I’ve been learning about the sport from Dan’s videos and I’m feeling a lot better about our purchase after seeing what he’s had to say about the Teton. Thank you Dan for sharing your knowledge in a way that feels welcoming to someone new to the sport.
You’re more than welcome. Thanks for being a part of our story.
Just took my blitz out for the first time on a large river. I'm only 5'7 so it's comfortable for me with lots of room. I actually got rocked with a large wake from a boat on my side when I wasn't paying attention (face timing someone) and the kayak really held itself well without my help so your feedback on the stability makes sense.
I really enjoyed it though as a newbie paddler. I had no issues besides the tracking you experienced. However I'm still learning so it may improve once my paddling improves.
Head stand was impressive. Helpful video, thank you
My first sit on top kayak was a Lifetime Triton model and it's build nearly exact like the Kuna reviewed here. Obviously not the best, but for the price, it's fun to take on calm waters. It does not track well and in windy conditions it spins on me. Perhaps an upgrade is due soon. I also have a secondhand Dagger 10.5 axis sit in and that cuts through the water. Thanks for the review!
Loved the Reviews! Thank you, really helps us beginners. I waited to long last year but got my Mustang this year. I learned a lot with last years reviews that helped with my purchase this year. Had my maiden voyage yesterday. Loads of fun!!
I really enjoy your honest reviews and completely put my faith in them when I bought my Blade 2 years ago based on your review a few years back. They must have changed the design to this one you review here by the time I bought it. I do love it tho! However, the seat sucks. Maybe I need to learn how to adjust it better to my back, but it definitely became obvious on a 9.8 mile trip last summer. I have always had back issues to an extent but the pain a couple days after that trip was unreal. I definitely need to rig it somehow before I paddle that route again this year. Otherwise, absolutely no complaints!
I tried to take you advice about a longer boat. Opted for an 11 foot over a 10 hoping to have an easier experience paddling. I got the lifetime stealth fishing kayak. It's a decision I regret. I mean it's not completely awful but it doesn't work for me. The wind pushes it to much. It doesn't go straight always wobbles left and right. And it's heavy and awkward. So for someone on the shorter side like me (I'm only 4'9") I'd honestly recommend getting the shorter boat. Maybe they do wobble but so does the big one. And your chances of getting hurt with the little one are less. It fell off my car while trying to reload and busted me in the chin, now I look like an domestic violence victim.
Great video, I picked up the 12' Field and Stream Blade and love it. You were spot on though, the pads on the side are already peeling up, and they placed on massively crooked. Not sure if that was Dick's or F&S. No seat problems yet.
Great video! I got the pioneer xr this year and I love it. It tracks pretty well and is really comfy.
Last year, my 2 10ft Pelicans were lost in the Dixie Fire. I replaced one with a Pelican Mustang. I usually have my lab with me when I kayak, and as much as I love my purple Pelican, it seems that the cockpit is a bit more confined than the ones I lost. Eiither that or my dog and I have gained more weight than I thought. Still love my Pelican, though .
I'm going to pick up my Blade 97 on Wednesday. I'm looking forward the upgrade on stability, tracking, & durability. I currently have a Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 (lol). I can always install/modify knee pads & seat features when needed on the Blade.
Thanks to your video I just bought my first kayak. Pelican Mustang.
Watching this video because I got a Teton and can’t take it out until the weekend.
Looks like I made the right choice.
Thinking about making my first kayak purchase and getting some exercise. love the wealth of information you provide!
I really appreciate the time you take with these videos-they’re a great wealth of information!
So we rented kayaks for a river trip. We rented simple SOT boats. 12'ers. Enjoyed it so much we went to Dicks and bough a couple.
We both wanted the Pelican Strike 100 NXT SOT which is essentially the Blitz you reviewed with a basket on the back instead of that enclosed thing yours had.
They only had one so I got the Sit In version (same Strike 100 NXT) which is more like the pioneer reviewed but with the same seat as the blitz.
First thing we both noticed.... The 10 footers do NOT track as easily as the 12. Which is a bummer in the lake. I think on the river trip we went on that actually would have been nicer. The river we live near is pretty narrow, pretty shallow and full of things to navigate around.
But we live on a lake and didn't consider that.
I'm debating on buying a fixed rudder or keel extension, whatever you want to call it to help her track better.
Due in no small part to this review, I picked up a Lifetime Teton Angler 100 a couple days ago at Dick's for $329 after sitting in it and, at 6'2" 185 lbs., finding the seat amd footrest positioning comfortable.
For a minimal cash outlay for a first kayak it will get my 60 something year old bones on the water.
(Now the accessory tracks are orange plastic and the paddle bungee is the same color and thickness as the deck bungees.)
The Mustang 100 is at the top of my list right now...looking to get into kayaking for the first time...the 120 seems nice but due to transportation and storage room the 100 makes more sense. Love your videos man!
Awesome video, I learned so much about my options just by watching this. Thank you!
Dan-you’re the Man! Love your passion-I’m 59, and picking up the sport! About to pull trigger on my first Kayak and would love your advice: Lifetime Teton 10’ or Field & Stream Axe 12’? I lean towards the Axe because tracking and glide are most important. Problem is: I cannot find much info on the Axe. Is it a new release? Very few reviews...
Thanks so much for doing these vids. I’ve gotten into the sport because of your recommendations and straight forward talk. Thanks again!
Thanks for the in depth review. Your video will help a lot of people looking to get into the sport.
Just the video I've been waiting for.
I have a vanquish 120 pretty good boat in Rough water . The cockpit is huge though I added a rod holder in the front on land sitting in it on the water I cant reach it lol . The ergoform seat in yours I'd like to have in mine . I like the longer kayaks I'm almost 250 and I always look for adjustable foot pedals . I'm by far no expert and get caught in crappy situations like the 3 km wind turns to 30 . I've always enjoyed your videos keep them coming . Thanks for all your information you give out has helped me a ton . The mustang 120 is similar to the Vanquish 120
Thumbs up / like for headstand in the water! Thanks for the upload!
🤘
Great review. I work at Dicks and your opinion meshes nicely. 12 ft blade is very very nice. Thanks for the feedback on the seat. Disappointing. Thanks
I have the Lifetime Teton and like it, as for standing though, you're a braver man than me lol. Thanks.
Have you considered reviewing some of the inflatables? Particularly the nicer ones. I recently picked up a 15’ advanced elements advanceframe tandem (but can be set up for single paddler) inflatable as my first kayak. I got it used for a lot less than new price, and the fact that it can go behind the back seats in my focus hatch is a huge plus
Would love to see some reviews on those also.
Just bought a pair of Pelican Argo (Pioneer) 100XR's for my wife and I. We are hoping the chair style seats provide better back support (important in mid-50s) but haven't had a chance to get on the river yet. At 6'2"/250lbs, I wish it were available in a 12 foot model - 10 foot kayaks just feel undersized for me.
Did you make it out to the river yet? I just got the 100xr as a first timer and have taken it out the past few days. I really like it so far.
@@FAZWORTH421 I have not. Summer got a little crazy with short notice weddings and then I caught covid. We have plans the next few weekends so hopefully after that. The Mississippi is pretty high and moving fast so happy to let it go down a bit.
The review on these are great! There is big difference in "enclosed" and "open" deck kayaks.
Would be great to see an "open deck" fishing kayak review. These two types of kayaks are very different for fishermen...
thanks for your channel and your reviews. I'm about to buy my first kayak, and your honest reviews helped me to make a decision. I HAD decided on the 10' Pelican Mustang, but after watching this I think I'll go ahead and spend the extra $100 for the 12'.
You’ll be happy you did. Longer is typically always better on flat water.
@@HeadwatersKayak But what about the hassle to load it?
Love my Teton. I have that exact model and color and really like it. Thanks for your video review.
great review with lots of information, especially as a novice....Look forward to watching some more videos
Thank you so much for all of your videos! I am just getting back into kayaking and they have all been so helpful. Do you have any recommendations for 8 foot kayaks?
The only thing I recommend an 8’ kayak for is whitewater. Any 8’ recreational kayak is going to paddle very poorly. Just like the 12’ being significantly better than a 10’ the 10’ is significantly better than an 8’. If space or transport is an issue I’d look at a folding kayak or good 10-12’ inflatable.
Can you do a video on rivers w currents. I live on the Hudson River (level 3 river) and would love a kayak so I can utilize the river. I only have a flat bottom lake kayak.
Took my first kayak ever - The Teton - out for its maiden voyage this past weekend! (Did not do a head stand)
Dick's has the Bandit NXT 100 ($299.98) and the Teton Angler 100 ($349.98) on sale. We are newbies and looking to purchase new kayaks to get out on the water. Initially I was leaning towards the Bandit, but after seeing this video review, I think I've decided on the Teton. Of course, we still need to test out the comfort of the seat and feet holds. Wish us luck! And, like others have said, thank you for these videos. They are so helpful, insightful, entertaining and straight forward. Keep up the great work.
For newbies, maybe a video on the difference between recreational and fishing kayaks. I was initially disregarding the fishing type, but think that might be the best bet for my needs. lol!
Great idea. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Comfort, comfort, comfort both in the seat and positioning is worth all extra money spent
Great advice! I’d add weight too, I’d choose a couple pounds more for comfort even if I’m hiking my yak.
Thank you for your review it really helped me in making my decision for my first kayak. I went with the T100
Great video! I know you've already reviewed the Tamarack Pro but it's such a great kayak to mention in this price range! It costs less than the teton, has adjustable foot pegs and is even more stable!
The Tamarack is less expensive but the Tamarack Pro is not less than the Teton.
Something you might mention the next time you do one of these rec kayak fleet reviews is the advantage of having a mesh-back pfd for the high-back seats and back rests. I and other find many of the typical foam-back pdfs interfere with the high-back seats making it harder to get in the kayak and sit in the seat comfortably/properly. Fine review though!!