Top Beginner Kayaks

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

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

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

Top Touring Kayaks

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

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

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

Top Inflatable Kayaks

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

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

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

Top Recreational Kayaks

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

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

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

Honorable Mentions: Unique Standouts

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

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

The post Best Kayaks of 2025 appeared first on Hazeadventure.

First Impressions

The Delta Kayaks 12AR retails for $1,400, a price point that reflects its premium build and features. It's 12′ long, 26.5″ wide, and weighs a mere 42 lbs. It features Delta's adjustable, padded comfort seat, foot pegs, bulkheads in the bow and stern for safety, and hatches in the bow and stern to provide enough storage space for kayak camping trips, or any other paddling adventure you have in mind.

Portability

The Delta Kayaks 12AR impresses with its thoughtful design. At 12 feet long and a mere 42 lbs (19 kg), it's light and easy to carry and transport, which will make a big difference for a lot of people.

It's lightweight nature is due to its thermoformed construction, which makes it stiffer than other plastic kayaks, and about 15-20% lighter.

On-Water Performance: Stability Meets Glide

On the water, the 12AR truly shines. Its innovative “fusion hull” is a game-changer. The strong bow keel effortlessly cuts through the water, while the unique catamaran-style stern provides remarkable stability. This isn't just marketing speak; during my test, the kayak felt incredibly secure, offering a confidence-inspiring ride for paddlers of all skill levels.

Despite its impressive stability, the Delta Kayaks 12AR maintains good forward speed, thanks to its narrow 26.5-inch width and the inherent glide of its thermoformed material. It strikes a truly harmonious balance between these often-conflicting attributes.

Comfort for All-Day Paddling

Comfort is paramount with the Delta Kayaks 12AR. The extra-large cockpit offers generous legroom, and the adjustable foot pegs provide excellent support. Even more impressive is Delta's Contour Seat System. Tall paddlers will rejoice at the ample space and the easily adjustable seat, which allows for perfect trim regardless of your size.

Durability & Thoughtful Features

Beyond performance and comfort, the 12AR offers practical features for flatwater adventures. While not as rugged as roto-molded boats, its durability is more than adequate with proper care. The two bulkheads, a significant safety feature, provide watertight compartments for buoyancy and offer surprising storage capacity, making it suitable for day trips, light kayak camping, kayak fishing, photography and more.

Who Is The Delta Kayaks 12AR For?

So, who is the Delta Kayaks 12AR for? It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore sheltered lakes, calm rivers, or bays. Whether you're a beginner seeking stability, an experienced paddler desiring comfort and efficient glide, or someone looking for a versatile platform for camping, fishing or photography, the Delta Kayaks 12AR delivers.

It's truly an “Adventure Recreational” kayak, living up to its name. While it's a premium investment, the Delta Kayaks 12AR offers exceptional value, providing a superior paddling experience that justifies its price tag. If you're interested in the quality of Delta Kayaks, but want a faster kayak, be sure to check out my review of the Delta Kayaks 15.5 GT!

The post Delta Kayaks 12AR Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

First Look: Specs and Features

The Hurricane Santee 116 Sport Kayak, priced at $1,250, is 11'6″ long, 28″ wide, and weighs a mere 39 lbs. While it doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles, the features it does have are real enhancements, like the bow and stern bulkheads for safety, a stern hatch for storage, a paddle holder for convenience, an adjustable seat, thigh pads, and foot braces for comfort, and molded grab handles to make it easy to move around. Its sleek design also hints at efficient glide through the water.

On the Water: Portability

The Hurricane Santee 116 Sport Kayak excels in portability. Weighing only 39 lbs, it's easy to transport. What makes it light is it's construction. It's a plastic kayak made by thermoforming. This manufacturing process results in a kayak that's about 20% lighter than typical plastic kayaks of a similar size, but it does make the kayak less durable, which we'll talk more about shortly.

Kayak Performance

The Santee 116 Sport is a recreational kayak, which means it's designed to be a stable boat for paddlers of any skill level to enjoy on flatwater. But the Santee also claims to offer great speed and glide. Did they succeed in creating a boat that's stable and fun to paddle? The answer is Yes!

The kayak is stable enough for anyone to feel confident in, but it's shape allows it to cut through the water smoothly and glide extremely well for a recreational kayak. The thermoformed plastic is also nice and smooth and stiff, which only enhances the kayaks's performance.

Comfort: Paddle All Day

The comfort of a kayak is critical to most recreational paddlers. If comfort is important to you, then you'll be happy to hear that the Santee 116 Sport is quite a comfortable kayak. It features a roomy cockpit, adjustable foot pegs, and Hurricane's supportive and adustable Strong Side Seat. Its design accommodates taller paddlers (up to 6'5″) and allows for a comfortable, efficient paddling posture.

Durability of the Santee 116 Sport

Thermoformed kayaks are lighter than other plastic kayaks, but their lightweight nature comes at the cost of durability. That being said, I wouldn't call the Santee 116 Sport fragile; It's simply a kayak that can't be abused. It's not a kayak to drag on the ground or bang hard into rocks. It's the kind of kayak that deserves padded roof rack bars when you transport it.

Value: A Smart Investment

At $1,250, the Hurricane Santee 116 Sport Kayak is a good value if it's the type of kayak you're looking for. Yes, you do pay a small premium for the kayak being thermoformed, but you get a lighter kayak, that glides through the water extremely well.

Who is the Santee 116 Sport For?

This kayak is ideal for flatwater paddling. It's not suited for rough conditions. It appeals to those seeking a comfortable, lightweight, and efficient sit-inside kayak for calm waters. It's a good choice for paddlers who prioritize having a lightweight kayak with good performance and are willing to take care of their gear.

If the Hurricane Santee 116 Sport Kayak isn't precisely what you're looking for, but you do like the idea of a lighter, thermoformed kayak, Hurricane has a number of other kayaks to consider. Check out my other Hurricane Kayak reviews, Prima 125, Osprey 120 and Tampico 130 to see which one is right for you

The post Hurricane Santee 116 Sport Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Initial Impressions and Specifications

The Sea Eagle EZLite10 Inflatable Kayak retails for $899. This package includes a backpack, a pump, a paddle, and a repair kit. The kayak measures 10 feet in length, 32 inches in width, and weighs only 28 pounds with the seat. It has a capacity of 325 pounds.

The kayak features two primary air chambers: the floor and the sides. It boasts a safety layer on the bottom for added protection and includes Sea Eagle's new FlexBrace 2 foot pegs. With a removable fin, five carry handles, bow and stern bungees, and a unique V-shaped hull, the EZLite10 is made using drop-stitch construction with sun and saltwater-resistant material. The backpack is large and reinforced with quality nylon, ensuring everything packs away easily, and can handle being lugged around.

First Impressions

At first glance, I was impressed with the Sea Eagle EZLite10 Inflatable Kayak. The drop-stitch construction makes it very rigid, contributing greatly to its performance. Despite weighing only 28 pounds, it feels substantial and well-built. The V-shaped hull promises better speed and tracking, and I was eager to see how it would perform on the water.

Portability

Portability is a significant factor for any inflatable kayak, and the EZLite10 scores high marks here. Weighing just 28 pounds with the seat and around 32 pounds with the backpack, pump, and accessories, it's incredibly easy to transport. The quality backpack offers ample space for everything, making packing up a breeze. With five grab handles, you can carry it like a suitcase, from the ends, or even pinch carry it from the sides.

Performance

For a 10-foot kayak, the EZLite10 performs admirably. While longer kayaks typically offer higher performance, this kayak strikes a balance between maneuverability and speed. The V-shaped hull and removable fin ensure it tracks well and glides in a straight line. It's not the fastest kayak, but it offers good speed for its size.

Stability

With a width of 32 inches, the EZlite10 is stable. It's a recreational kayak that offers peace of mind for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. While it may not feel as stable as some other 32-inch wide kayaks, it still provides ample stability for most paddling conditions.

Comfort

Comfort is crucial for enjoyable paddling, and the Sea EZLite10 Inflatable Kayak delivers. The $950 package includes a high-back seat, which offers excellent support for paddling and lounging. The foot pegs are top quality and easy to install and adjust, providing added power while paddling. However, the low walls of the kayak don't provide the same leg support that large tube inflatable kayaks like the Sea Eagle 300x offer. Adding some foam under the knee could enhance your comfort during long paddles.

Suitability

The EZLite10 kayak is ideal for flat or mildly rough water conditions. It's not designed for rough waters or large waves, but it can handle calm ocean days and bigger lakes. Its inflatable nature ensures it remains buoyant even if swamped, though draining water willed to be done manually, as the EZLite10 is not self-bailing. This kayak is best suited for recreational paddling on flat water or gentle currents.

Value

Sea Eagle kayaks are known for their value, and the EZLite10 is no exception. For under $1,000, you get a full drop-stitch construction kayak with foot pegs and a performance seat. It's lightweight, portable, and performs well, making it a fantastic option for those seeking a high-quality inflatable kayak without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In summary, the Sea Eagle EZLite10 kayak receives two thumbs up. It's not for everyone, but if you're looking for a lightweight, portable kayak for flat water adventures, this might be the perfect choice. Stay tuned for more kayak reviews, paddling tips, and adventures on PaddleTV and Hazeadventure. And don't forget to subscribe to PaddleTV and Hazeadventure newsletters!

Happy paddling!

Ken Whiting

The post Sea Eagle EZLite10 Inflatable Kayak: A Comprehensive Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

As a whitewater kayaker, I’m used to spending most of my time in hard-shell kayaks. But my family also spends quite a bit of time angling from hard platform boats. As the NRS Kuda is an inflatable platform that is made for angling and getting out with your family, I was really curious to test it out and see how it compares. 

Today, I am going to review the NRS Kuda kayak / SUP and give you my honest opinion about its features, design, and whether it would be suitable for your next family outing. 

Stability

The first thing I wanted to test out was stability. My kids are used to jumping on the NRS inflatable SUP board, and the Kuda is a similar platform. The stability definitely passed the test. And I was able to stand up and fish while having my kid on board. 

For me, fishing with kids in tow is a good test of stability as you’re moving around, and your kids aren’t keeping still. In fact, I actually had my daughter paddling me around while I cast. So it definitely has a high level of stability.

Mounting Points

Fishing kayaks often come with a lot of mounting points, and I was curious about the Kuda’s. And what I didn’t realize is the Kuda actually has five different yak attack mounting points. 

For me, mounting points are really important because if I decide to make the Kuda my angling platform while traveling on the road, I need to know that I can attach rod holders and other attachments that will make my fishing experience better. 

Another cool feature of the kayak alongside the mounts is that NRS has actually printed a 24-inch measuring board directly onto the deck. I do often like to measure my fish. But I’ve never really invested in a catch board as it's another piece of equipment I have to take with me. So I was pretty excited to see that the Kuda has its own one built in. 

Removable Seat

Paddling around while standing up is really fun. But one of my favorite things about the Kuda is the seat that you can actually strap onto the deck. The seat makes the kayak feel a little bit more like a traditional fishing kayak, as it has an aluminum frame. 

In my opinion, the seat is incredibly easy to take on and off. Plus, when you’re out with the family on the water, you can simply pull over to the side, take the chair off, and use it on the land. 

Tracking

I found the Kuda tracked really well, especially thanks to the skeg plate that allows you to change out different fins depending on what you’re using it for. 

I personally used the kayak on the Ottawa River, where I knew there were going to be some currents. As a whitewater paddler, the currents didn’t intimidate me. But I was actually quite impressed with the amount of stability and traction that the Kuda had while crossing those eddy lines.

While kayaking, you need to be able to maneuver your kayak and have it respond to proper technique. And I found the Kuda to be very responsive and professional.

Transportation

For me, the biggest separation between a traditional fishing kayak and the Kuda was the fact that I was able to take the Kuda with me during my travels. The Kuda comes in an NRS bag with carry straps, which overall acts very much like a backpack. 

The kayak wasn’t too heavy, and I could easily strap the bag onto my back, walk down to the river, and pump it up in little to no time at all.

Weight Limit

And the final cool feature about the NRS Kuda is the fact that it can hold up to 300 pounds, meaning that myself, both kids, and some equipment can go out and enjoy the water together. 

The whole setup of the Kuda weighs just 31 pounds. And although NRS says it's a one-person platform, your kids can easily tag along and turn it into a multi-person platform. 

Kayak: NRS Kuda

Follow our Adventures and Subscribe

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

The post NRS Kuda Kayak / SUP Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Wilderness Systems Targa 130T Specifications

Price: $1329 (USD)
Length: 13’
Width: 36”
Weight: 99 LBS (45 KG)
Capacity: 450 LBS (204 KG)
Best Use: Recreational

The Targa 130T features:

• A portable cooler
• An elevated stern camp-style seat
• A reversible bow framed seat
• A bow storage hood
• Adjustable footrests
• 4 carry handles

Keeping the Peace in a Tandem Kayak

Tandem kayaks are sometimes known as “divorce kayaks”. So when I took the Targa 130T out I was testing both the kayak and my marriage! I’m glad to say even after testing the kayak I am still happily married.

But let's talk for a moment about why people call tandem kayaks “divorce kayaks”. Paddling a tandem kayak can cause arguments between even partners and close friends. This is often because people do not recognize the different reasons why they want to take a kayak out. For some people, like myself, it is to push myself to the limit in various ways, whereas, for example, my wife gets on the water to relax.

To enjoy your time out on the water in a tandem kayak you need to make sure that you communicate with your partner about what you both want to get out of the paddle. That way you can stay on the same page and have a great day on the water! This is why when my wife and I took the Targa 130T out for a test paddle we went for a gentle, relaxing paddle and had a great day.

Portability

The Wilderness Systems Targa 130T is a 13′ kayak which is not very long. You can slide this into the back of a pickup truck. So it is portable in that it is short.

That said, it does weigh 99 LBS. This means it is not easy to carry around. Even with two strong people, my wife and I, carrying the Targa 130T to the water was difficult. For a kayak this heavy I would recommend using a kayak cart to make moving it a lot more manageable. What’s more, if you have to put this kayak on roof racks on your car you will need at least two strong people. It is a very heavy boat.

Stability

Despite having elevated seats, the Targa 130T is very stable. At 36″ wide it is a wide kayak so will provide a stable platform. Kayaks such as the Targa 130T are not designed to be edged, so you can see them more as giant floating docks that you can paddle!

Comfort

This is a big, wide, open platform, so is very comfortable. It is especially comfortable for your legs as the kayak is wide enough to sit in any position you want.

The seats in the Targa 130T are very comfortable. They are adjustable and have great lower back support. The fact that they are elevated and framed suspension seats also means that they conform to butts and are super comfortable.

A great aspect of the Targa 130T is that the bow seat can turn around. This means that you can float around on the water while facing each other. There are no more conversations to the back of someone's head in the Targa 130T. So when Nicole, my wife, got tired, she just turned the seat around, put it into lazy mode, and laid back whilst I paddled. This is a great feature to allow people to spend time together in a comfortable and friendly way.

Performance

Is the Targa 130T a performance machine? At 36″ wide it is not. This kayak has a pontoon hull that pushes a lot of water. It is very heavy and has a lot of drag. That said, there is a nice bow keel that slices through the water and helps the kayak track. So, for the type of kayak that it is, the performance of the Targa 130T is solid. It is not designed to be a performance kayak but it is still enjoyable to paddle.

Features

The Wilderness Systems Targa 130T has a few different features. One of the key features is the reversible bow seat, which we have already established is awesome.

The other key feature is the integrated cooler. This is a full cooler that sits in the stern of the kayak. It does take up a lot of the storage space that might be necessary when taking the Targa 130T on a kayak camping trip but is an excellent feature for people who want to use it for a day trip. One thing to note is that you should take the cooler out when driving with the kayak as it is likely to fly out of the kayak on the road otherwise.

The other feature is the bow hood. It is designed to shed water and keep stuff underneath it dry. This doesn't really appeal to me as it is such a thick piece of plastic that it dramatically reduces the space underneath the hood. It just isn't something that I get any value out of. But this is by no means a dealbreaker, it's more just personal preference.

Value

The Targa 130T costs $1329 (USD), but is that good value? Well, I think it is. This is about what you would expect to pay for a high-quality kayak with comfortable framed seats, foot pegs, and an in-built cooler.

Who Is the Targa 130T For?

This kayak is for a variety of people. First and foremost it is for people who want a stable kayak more than they want a performance kayak. It is for people who want a kayak that they can use as a single or a double kayak. Importantly, this is a social boat. It is designed to let you spend quality time on the water with friends and family.

I did a review of the single paddler version of this kayak last year. Check out The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 Review article.

PFDs/Life Jackets:  NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Kayaks: Wilderness Systems Targa 130t
Paddle:  Aqua Bound Manta Ray Carbon 2-piece
Shirts and Tops:  NRS Guide Short Sleeved Men’s Shirt
Paddling Shorts:  NRS Benny Board Shorts
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post Wilderness Systems Targa 130T Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Perception Hangtime 11 Specifications

Price: $950 (USD)
Length: 10’ 10”
Width: 33”
Weight: 68 LBS (31 KG)
Capacity: 350 LBS (160 KG)
Best Use: Recreation

The kayak features, above all else, a padded stern seating area. It also has a reclining seat, six cup holders, a paddle park, a padded deck area, molded footrests or footwells, and bow storage with a bungee.

The great thing about paddling is that there really is a type of paddling for everyone. For some people, it's about going out and really pushing their boundaries. For other people, it is more about just getting out on the water and having a relaxing experience outdoors with friends and family. And that of course, is what the Perception Hangtime 11 is all about.

Portability

This is about an 11’ long kayak which is relatively short for a kayak making it easier to move around. It is also 68 LBS, which is about what you would expect for a kayak made this way. So it is not light or particularly heavy, making it a fairly portable recreational kayak.

Comfort While Paddling

Comfort is what the Perception Hangout 11 is designed for. So let's, first of all, talk about the comfort of paddling this kayak. The Hangout 11 comes with a really nice seat, something that Perception is really known for. It is not a fully framed seat. It has an adjustable frame at the backrest so you can choose to set it up for active paddling or chilling out. But it is sitting, with a nice thick pad, on the floor. That means it doesn’t contour as much to your butt as a full-framed or suspended seat, and there is the potential to get a soggy butt.

The other feature the seat has are straps on the side that allow you to lift the front of the seat in order to support your thighs. This provides your upper legs with great support so your legs don’t just flop down.

On the downside, there are the footwells. I am never a fan of footwells for two main reasons. Inevitably there is not a perfectly comfortable sitting option as footwells give you fewer options for leg length. The other problem is that you get a lot of support on your heel, but not enough on your foot's ball. So I usually prefer foot pegs and foot braces. But this complaint is by no means a deal breaker.

Comfort While Lounging

With the adjustable seat that you can crank right back, you can lounge very comfortably in the seat itself. Alternatively, the lounge seat is surprisingly comfortable. It is nice, big, and contoured, and the headrest can be adjusted to whatever position makes you feel most comfortable. It was really nice for resting on and off the water. You basically have a beach chair just built into the kayak.

Stability

The Perception Hangtime 11 is absolutely stable. It is a 33” wide kayak so it is designed to be stable as opposed to fast-moving. The pontoon-style hull of the Hangtime 11 lends itself to stability. You can stand up in it and in all honesty you would be hard-pressed to flip the Hangtime 11.

Performance

The Perception Hangtime 11 is designed for chilling out and not for paddling long distances or winning any races. That said I was surprised by how well this kayak tracked when paddling forwards. It has the pontoon hull, but also a nicely shaped bow that really helped cut through the water better than I was expecting. It is obviously not fast due to its dimensions, but it did a good job at tracking.

Features

The main feature is the lounge seat in the back, and that does a great job doing exactly what it is designed for – being a chill-out kayak!

Otherwise, you have the storage space with the bungees which is a handy feature if you want to bring a dry bag or other things with you on a paddle. There is also a paddle park which I used when just floating around. Behind the seat, there is a lot of storage, and even some extra bungees to put a tackle box or another gear bag.

There are not a tonne of features, but every feature on the Perception Hangtime 11 works and makes a lot of sense with the design of the kayak.

Value

Let's talk about the overall value of the Perception Hangtime 11. This kayak costs $950 (USD) which falls into the sub $1000 (USD) kayak. There are many kayaks in this price range and this is one that, if relaxing and chill-out floating sessions are your style, is pretty good value. Yes, there are definitely things I’d like to see in it such as foot braces. Yes, you will get a little wet using the seat which is not suspended, or sitting on the lounge seat. But overall it's great value for what it is.

This kayak is largely designed for chilling out in warm conditions and just going for a chill paddle with friends and family. So this is a great recreational kayak. You don’t see many innovations in kayaks and sometimes they can be gimmicky. But for me, the addition of a built-in lounge chair is awesome for the right person, making this the ultimate chill-out kayak. I tested the Perception Hangtime 11 on the Flint River.

PFDs/Life Jackets:  NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Kayaks: Perception Hangtime 11
Paddle:  Aqua Bound Manta Ray Carbon 2-piece
Shirts and Tops:  NRS Guide Short Sleeved Men’s Shirt
Paddling Shorts:  NRS Benny Board Shorts
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post Perception Hangtime 11 Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

This kayak is referred to as a playful, highly versatile, day and weekend kayak. But does it live up to this description? Well, let’s get straight into my unbiased review of the P&H Volan 160.

P&H Volan 160 Specifications

Price: $4500-$6000 (USD)
Length: 16’
Width: 23”
Weight: 42-58 LBS
Capacity: 265 LBS
Best use: All conditions

Features of the P&H Volan 160

The boat has several features including:

• Large bow and stern hatches, a day hatch, and optional bow mini hatch.
• Full deck lines and bungees for storage.
• A skeg, but the option of a rudder.
• A padded and contoured seat with a back band and hip pads.
• A bulkhead in the front and back.

As an interesting fact, all the P&H sea kayaks are named after constellations or whiskeys.

This sea kayak costs a lot of money, but there is a good reason why. It is a composite kayak, made of a kevlar carbon infusion, and is their highest-end kayak. You can get the same kayak made out of different materials. These are a little cheaper but also a little heavier. The joy of composite materials is that they are lightweight, but also look and feel beautiful.

Portability

This is a 16-foot sea kayak, so it will never be effortless to move around. But it is in fact on the shorter end of sea kayaks, and only 42 lbs. This makes it relatively easy for one person to move it around, and a complete breeze for two people. For a sea kayak, this is incredibly portable simply because of how lightweight it is.

Stability of the Volan 160

No 23” kayak is going to be as stable as a recreational or day kayak. These kayaks will be closer to 30” wide. So, for what it is, the Volan 160 is a stable kayak. It has good primary stability – the stability you feel when just sitting on the water. It also has good secondary stability, which is the stability of the kayak when you hold it on edge. This is not surprising because the hull has a soft chine. That means that it is not round but has a flatter hull that comes up to straighter edges.

Performance, Speed, and Maneuverability

Sea kayaks are designed for speed, so this is a fast kayak. But it is not the fastest sea kayak – if you wanted a faster one you would get a longer kayak with less rocker. The Volan has a fair amount of rocker (the curvature of the kayak from bow to stern), which means it turns very easily, despite it being a 16’ kayak.

The Volan 160 comes with a skeg and it tracks perfectly well. I love a playful kayak and do not mind giving up some performance and speed for a bit more maneuverability and playfulness. It is very much my type of kayak, with a lot of rocker and a big bow that is designed to go through waves. It is designed to handle any type of water conditions and I have no doubt it will do that, although I haven’t had the chance to test it in rough water yet.

Comfort

I tested out the Volan 160, the high-volume version, but P&H also has a 158 for smaller paddlers. The 160 was perfect for me, a 6’ 2”, 195 lbs man with a 34” inseam. It fit me like a glove. The seat and hip pads are contoured and foam and are very comfortable. This helped me feel like I had full control of the kayak and keep confident that the kayak would hold me in any sort of rough conditions.

That being said, there wasn’t much more space next to me, so it could be a tight fit for other people. That’s why, before you buy a boat like this you should always test it out and at least sit in one before you buy it to make sure you fit, especially if you are a bigger person.

There is a lot of foot space, and the footpegs provide nice comfortable platforms for your feet. There is also plenty of space for people with long legs. So comfort-wise, two big thumbs up.

The only thing to note is that there aren’t aggressive thigh supports, you are putting your legs under the boat. So what I will do with this is take foam and customize the boat so that I have the support needed on my thighs. This is what you would expect to do with a lifetime kayak.

Features

The P&H Volan 160 sea kayak comes with a skeg as standard, but you can choose to buy one with a rudder. The skeg is controlled with an awesome and smooth slider system that allows you to choose specifically which depth you want it to go. If you choose to order a rudder you will no longer have a skeg box inside the stern hatch which will free up space for storage on an overnight trip.

The Volan 160 has four different hatches. The bow and stern hatches are the main hatches for gear as there is the most space there, as well as bulkheads separating them from the rest of the boat. Relatively speaking there is lots of room, however, this isn’t a big kayak, so it isn’t ideal for long expeditions, but perfect for day trips or weekends.

The day hatch behind the seat – a very common placement for it, is fine, but my preference would be to have just one big hatch. But this is a personal preference thing.

The mini day hatch up front is an incredibly useful way to use dead space and did not impede my legs. It has enough space to through some sunscreen, snacks, and a phone, all of which you can access easily.

Personalize Your P&H Volan 160

You can go to the P&H sea kayak website and fully customize the kayak you order, including things like the color, whether you have a rudder or a skeg, choose the outfitting, whether you want the mini day hatch, etc. There are a whole range of options. It will take a few months before you receive your custom kayak, but it is an option.

Who is the P&H Volan 160 Volan Kayak For?

To sum it all up, this is an expensive kayak, but one that is worth it in my opinion. You are paying for a lightweight, beautiful, composite kayak. This is a lifetime sea kayak. There is no reason that, if you look after it, this kayak shouldn’t last your entire lifetime. From that perspective, it is a reasonable price.

First and foremost this touring kayak is for people who can afford it. It is also for people who value having a lightweight kayak and are willing to pay a premium for it. It is for people who want an all-around sea kayak: something that can handle rough conditions if they pop up in open conditions. If you are unlikely to put yourself in those conditions you may want to choose a kayak that has less rocker, and is designed less to handle those conditions but will travel faster.  

For me, this is my type of kayak. Not only is it a beautiful kayak that paddles effortlessly, but it does what I want from a kayak. It can handle anything – from ocean surf, to boat waves, rock gardens, and ocean waves. At the same time, you can load it up in the car and go for a weekend exploring in flat water. I give this a big enthusiastic two thumbs up. This will be a lifetime kayak for me too!

Kayak: P&H Volan 160
Paddles:  Aqua Bound Manta Ray Hybrid
PFD:   NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post P&H Volan 160 Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Specifications

Price: $200 (USD)
Length: 10’
Width: 36”
Weight: 37 lbs (17 kg)
Capacity: 220 lbs (100 kg)

NRS Pike Inflatable Kayak Specifications

Price: $1000 (USD)
Length: 12’ 8”
Width: 38”
Weight: 48 lbs
Capacity: 375 lbs

Portability of the Pike vs Intex Excursion Pro

Both the Intex Excursion Pro and NRS Pike come in nice backpacks. But the NRS Pike is 11 lbs heavier than the Intex Excursion Pro. This does make a difference when moving it around. That said, the NRS Pike has nice padded straps on the backpack to help carry it around.

Neither the backpack for the Excursion Pro nor the NRS Pike come with much extra room in them. This is often a bit of a sore point for me. I would really like a bag with some extra room so that when you are tired and finish paddling, you don’t have to do this perfect fold-up job to get it back in the bag.

The only downside regarding portability and setting up the Excursion Pro is the pump. The pump is very small which makes it difficult and back-breaking work to pump the kayak up too often. So you would need to upgrade the pump if you wanted to use the Intex Excursion Pro regularly.

NRS Pump is Incredible

On the other hand, where the NRS Pike really shines is with the pump. It comes with the NRS Super 2 HP pump, which has two settings. It has a preliminary stage that lets you fill the kayak with air easily and quickly. And at the point where the air pressure gets higher, you can switch to an easier setting for topping up the air. This is very useful because the NRS Pike needs to be filled to 8 psi in some parts.

Comfort of Intex Excursion vs NRS Pike

The Intex Excursion Pro is a pretty open platform, it's a soft kayak and a comfortable boat. The seat has an inflatable butt pad to it, so it is comfortable. There is a booster included so that you can raise the seat higher. In my experience this doesn’t particularly add any comfort, it just raises your center of gravity. The seat has virtually no back support whatsoever, which means that you have to actively sit forward. The second you lean back the seat collapses! Having no back support can get tiring on a long paddle trip.

The comfort of the NRS Pike is a serious step up from the Excursion Pro. There are a couple of reasons for that. There is so much more room in the kayak. It’s the kind of kayak that can accommodate a person of almost any size. The foot pedals in the NRS Pike are real foot pedals, they are raised and provide great support for the ball of your foot. Not only does that help your comfort, but it also impacts your performance.

NRS Pike Kayak Seat vs Intex Excursion Kayak Seat

The NRS Pike's seat is incredibly comfortable. It is an elevated framed seat, which means that if there is water in the boat your bum will not get wet. The seat also provides excellent support. You can adjust the seat into different positions for kayaking, fishing, or simply lounging in your kayak. It is just a really comfortable, decently-sized seat.

Stability of Intex Excursion vs Pike

For a lot of recreational paddlers, the stability of a kayak is an important factor. But for the Intex Excursion Pro, stability is not something you need to worry about. It is a very stable kayak, even for me who is 30 lbs over the maximum capacity. Having said that, I would probably not go for the Excursion Pro at my size because it is a little cramped – I would go for one of their slightly larger versions. But it is a stable kayak.

Wider and More Stable

Now the NRS Pike is 2” wider than the Excursion, and generally speaking, the wider the kayak is the more stable it is. And 2” is enough to make a difference. If the Excursion Pro is stable, the NRS Pike is very stable. In fact, when I was testing the NRS Pike I quickly learned that it is almost impossible to flip this kayak. You are more likely to fall out of the seat than flip the kayak. It is designed to be stood on so that you can stand up and fish or use it as a paddleboard. It deserves top marks for stability.

Performance Comparison

The Excursion Pro is a weak-performing kayak and is very slow. This is partially because of its design. It is only pumped up to 1.5 psi, meaning it is soft and mushy, which costs you speed. The speed of the kayak is not improved by the paddle it comes with. The paddle is so flexible that if you try and paddle fast with it, the blade literally starts to fold in half.

The other problem with the Intex Excursion Pro is that it is not able to handle wind very well. This is because the front is flat. There is no keel, or edge, that cuts through the water. The bow is not held in place when the wind hits it.   

NRS Pike Performs Better

The NRS Pike, unsurprisingly, performs much better than the Excursion Pro. That being said, it is not a performance machine or a high-speed kayak. It is a 38” wide kayak so it will be pushing more water, and therefore going slower than a narrower kayak. Those looking for speed are not going to purchase this kayak.

While not a speed-demon, the NRS Pike is much faster than the Excursion Pro. And there are a few reasons for that. Thanks to the drop stitch flooring you can pump this up to 8 psi, and the tubes go to 3 psi. That means the kayak is stiffer overall and feels more like a hardshell kayak than the Excursion Pro. This allows it to move more efficiently in the water.

On top of that, at the front, the NRS Pike has a bow keel that cuts through the water in a similar way to a hard shell kayak. It helps you keep a straight line and stops you from being blown around as much by the wind. More importantly, the bow will stay in place and cut through the water whenever you take a paddle stroke or get blown by the wind. It is just a much more efficient kayak in the water.

Features Comparison

The Intex Excursion Pro comes with a number of different accessories. It has three mounting pads, one of which is a phone or GoPro mount, and there are two fishing rod holders behind the seat. These are nice features. However, as a taller paddler, I would be nervous about knocking the phone off the mount as my paddle comes awfully close to it.

Similarly, the rod holders are not ideal. When paddling I was hitting the rod holders with my elbow. The holders are also not very deep, so it would be easy to accidentally knock your whole rod out. An expensive mistake to make!

In contrast, the NRS Pike has five YakAttack mounting platforms. There are three up front and two behind the seat. You can attach any type of accessories such as fish finders, rod holders, etc. They are positioned in a much better way than with the Excursion Pro as they are farther away. But there is just more space in this kayak in general.

The other thing that the Pike has is a bungee system at the front and back, with a daisy chain system that you can customize. If you want to bring gear along with you there is a lot of opportunity for that. And with the increased capacity compared to the Intex Excursion Pro, you can really bring a lot of gear.

Fishing Comparison

Whether you are a core angler or just someone who wants to throw a line every once in a while, the Intex Excursion Pro is definitely an inflatable kayak you can fish out of. Now, as I said, I wouldn’t trust the rod holders, but it provides a stable platform and is suitable for fishing. That being said, you have to be careful fishing with this kayak because of the inflatable tubes and flooring. The Intex Excursion Pro inflatable kayak is very much a recreational anglers kayak. You might like the idea of taking a rod out in a kayak with you, but you are not really getting it for fishing.

The NRS Pike, on the other hand, can easily be converted into a fishing machine by using the mounting plates and extra space that you have. But mostly, this kayak is durable. It has an EVA floor pad to provide extra protection. But even without that, NRS has a track record of making durable boats. They have been making white water rafts for a long time. And that is why the NRS Pike has a three-year warranty; it is durable.

The fact that you can stand and fish on the NRS Pike is huge. That might not appeal to everyone, but as a core angler, there are huge advantages to being able to stand up and fish. The higher vantage point allows you to see further and cast further. So top marks for fishing friendliness here.

Which Inflatable Fishing Kayak?

It might have sounded like I was really talking down the Intex Excursion Pro inflatable kayak and talking up the NRS Pike inflatable kayak, but the reality is that the NRS Pike is $800 (USD) more expensive, so of course you can expect the NRS Pike to be a better kayak.

Does that mean that the Excursion Pro is a rubbish kayak? Well, for some people yes, depending on what they like to get out of kayaking. It is the type of kayak I call a “gateway kayak”. It is a kayak that lets people try out kayaking in an affordable way. If they enjoy it, and want to paddle more, it won’t be long before they need to upgrade.

The NRS Pike, at $1000 (USD), is an investment for a lot of people. It is a lot of money to spend just to experiment with kayaking. I'd say the NRS Pike is more of a lifetime kayak. If you treat it well, there is a good chance this kayak will be with you for all of your paddling years. It is durable, and can satisfy the needs of recreational kayakers from beginners right through to experts.

The NRS Pike is a versatile kayak that allows you to go touring, camping, fishing or just float about. The only thing that neither of these kayaks does is rough water. The reason they do not handle rough water well is because they are what we call “bucket boats”. They do not have any drains in them, so will just start to fill up with water…like a bucket!

NRS Pike Worth the Extra Money?

Is the NRS Pike worth the extra money? That 100% depends on what you want from a kayak. The Intext Excursion Pro is exceptional value as a gateway kayak, as long as you are using it for the right reasons, and just want to get on the water and enjoy getting outdoors. If you want to take your paddling to the next level, have a bit more fun with what you paddle, or take your fishing to the next level, you might want to upgrade to the NRS Pike. It is much more comfortable, more durable, and overall a more enjoyable experience, making it worth the higher price tag.

Check out my NRS Pike Fishing Kayak Review post.

PFDs/Life Jackets:  NRS Zen PFD
Kayak: NRS Pike, Intex Excursion Pro
Dry Suit:  NRS Axiom Dry Suit

The post Intex Excursion Pro vs NRS Pike Inflatable Kayak appeared first on Hazeadventure.

I've already reviewed these boats on my Road Trip Angler YouTube channel. However, this article isn't really about comparing these models specifically. Instead, I want to talk about the general pros and cons of the standard hard plastic versus inflatable fishing kayaks, and where I see each type of kayak making the most sense.

Kayak Weight Can Vary Significantly

Weight will be a determining factor if you’re considering one of these two types of fishing kayaks. There are some relatively lightweight composite kayaks out there, but inflatables are generally much lighter. However, hard-shell rotomolded fishing kayaks are usually wider, more stable, and can carry a lot more gear.

Inflatables usually weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. Hard plastic kayaks generally weigh from 70 pounds to 150 pounds or more for pedal drive kayaks.

Since weight can vary so much, it's worth thinking about when you're comparing the two types of kayaks.

Transportation and Storage

You’ll also want to factor in storage and transportation when you’re comparing inflatable and hard-shell fishing kayaks.

Regardless of design, most fishing kayaks are between 11 and 14 or 15 feet long. You can transport a hard kayak on a roof rack, but I'd say that inflatables have the edge when it comes to transportation. It's just nice being able to pack them down, put them in a case, and throw them in the back seat or trunk of a car.

Plus, you can store them in a closet. This just isn't an option with hard-shell rotomolded kayaks. In fact, you need a space bigger than the kayak itself. This usually means a pick-up truck or trailer for storage, and a garage, a shed, or a basement with an outdoor entrance for storage.

Materials and Construction

Materials and construction are two more things to think about when it comes to hard-shell versus inflatable fishing kayaks. The NRS Kuda and Pike Pro inflatable fishing kayaks are made from PVC-type vinyl material, whereas the Coosa X is rotomolded plastic.

NRS makes high-quality boats that can take a lot of punishment, but hard plastic kayaks have the edge when it comes to durability. They just hold up better over time, and you can drag them over the ground or a rocky river bottom for a long time before they’ll wear out.

However, people have been running white water and fishing from inflatable boats for ages. Inflatables have gotten a lot stronger and more durable over the years. Just keep in mind that you do need to think about overinflation, air expansion, and punctures with inflatables.

These just aren't issues with standard rotomolded fishing kayaks because they don't expand or pop. In addition, it's nice not having to worry about hooks and other sharp objects puncturing the boat and sidelining your day on the water.

Now, I don't want to give you the impression that inflatables aren’t durable. Actually, they are. It’s just that they’re less durable than hard-shell boats like the Coosa X from Jackson Kayak.

Rigging and Accessories

I really like that most fishing kayaks come with lots of gear track, but hard plastic and composite boats have the advantage in regard to rigging and accessory options.

The Coosa X comes with plenty of Jackson’s tri-track that makes it easy to put as much rigging as you want on the boat wherever you want it. You can add a lot of accessories to inflatables too, but you may have to glue on different bases.

The Kuda and Pike Pro inflatable fishing kayaks from NRS do come with some bases. The only drawback is that you’re limited by the shorter track sections. Whereas some fishing kayaks have strips that are 12 inches or longer.

Both Kayak Types Offer Tons of Versatility

It's kind of a toss-up when it comes to which type of fishing kayak is more versatile.

But it's nice packing an inflatable kayak into a relatively small bag and blowing it up onsite. I also like that inflatables are light, that they're easy to store, and that they can be used on virtually any waterway.

The flip side is that rotomolded kayaks tend to give you more confidence in bigger water. This is largely because you don’t have to worry about punctures and other deflation issues. Just remember that hard kayaks aren’t impervious to problems or damage. They can still crack and wear out over time, especially when they're used a lot or abused. In fact, even leaving them out in the sun can degrade the plastic and lead to cracks and other issues.

That said, I'd say that rotomolded kayaks get the nod when it comes to overall versatility. However, it depends on your fishing style, how much you'll be traveling, how you'll transport your kayak, and how much storage space you have.

So an inflatable may be more suitable if live in an apartment, don't have a truck or trailer, or just want a lighter kayak that's easier to get to and from hard-to-reach access points.

Then again, a hard plastic boat may be a better choice if you'll be fishing tournaments in open water and want to carry lots of gear and rig-up accessories like electronics and anchor systems.

Hi-Low Versus Fixed Seating

Another advantage most rotomolded kayaks have is that they come with trimmable high-low seating.

This varies between models and manufacturers, but you rarely get high-low seating with inflatables. You may be able to move the seat forward and backward a little on some inflatable kayaks, but the seats are often locked into place.

I do want to say that NRS’s Pike Pro and Kuda 126 are some of the best inflatable fishing kayaks out there when it comes to versatile, high-quality, purpose-built fishing kayaks. And again, it really just depends on what you’re doing with the boat, where you’re using it, and how you plan on storing and transporting it.

It's also worth noting that you'll generally have access to interior storage with rotomolded sit-on-top kayaks.

More Models to Choose From With Hard Kayaks

There are a lot more options with standard rotomolded fishing kayaks than with inflatables. There really aren’t a ton of inflatable kayaks designed specifically for fishing. This limits your choices and can make it tricky to find the right kayak and get it dialed into your needs.

But to recap, I think the NRS Kuda and Pike Pro are two of the best options out there. In fact, they’ll give some rotomolded plastic kayaks a run for their money in a lot of ways.

You really just need to think about what you're doing and where you're fishing to figure out which kind of boat will work best for you.

Tracking, Speed, and Maneuverability

Another thing to consider is that inflatables tend to sit more on top of the water, while hard shell kayaks sit down deeper.

This makes inflatables more nimble and easier to get up to speed more quickly. On the flip side, the wind can push them around more than hard-shell kayaks.

With that in mind, a rotomolded boat like the Jackson Kayak Coosa X may be the way to go if you primarily fish in open water exposed to the wind. If you’ll be fishing smaller creeks and rivers and need a maneuverable lightweight boat that you can get to and from the water more easily, you may want to take a serious look at an inflatable like a Pike Pro or Kuda from NRS.

The Verdict – Rotomolded vs. Inflatable Fishing Kayaks

So what type of kayak is right for you?

That’s a hard question to answer. I have certain situations where inflatables work best and others where I prefer a rigid kayak.

It could be completely different for you. I suggest trying out both types of fishing kayaks and finding a dealer with lots of models to choose from.

Inflatables are great if you have minimal storage or just need something you can pack up and transport easily. You should definitely think about access too. Dragging a 31-pound kayak through the woods to a launch location is way easier than it is with a 100-pound kayak.

Inflatables are also an advantage when you’re attaining up a river. For river fishing, I want something that's easy to drag across shoals and sits on top of the water instead of down in the current.

Again, rotomolded kayaks usually have more gear track. So they're clear winners when it comes to rigging and adding accessories like electronics.

In summary, making the right decision boils down to the following:

• Where you'll be fishing
• How you'll move and store your kayak
• How much gear you have
• How many accessories you'll add
• Features like ho-low seating and internal storage
• The tradeoff between lightweight and long-term durability

Remember, you don’t have to settle for a kayak that isn’t right for you. These days there are plenty of options with NRS, Jackson Kayak, and other manufacturers.

As always, thanks for stopping by.

Kayaks: NRS Pike Pro, NRS Kuda 126, Jackson Coosa X
Life vest: NRS Chinook PFD
Accessories: Anchor Wizard, YakAttack Omega Rod Holder, YakAttack Cup Holder, YakAttack Rotogrip, and the YakAttack BlackPak Pro
Shirt: NRS Varial Hoodie
Rods: Judge Crankbait Series, Eternity Series, Revelation Series
Sunglasses: Wiley X

Follow my Adventures and Subscribe

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more adventure fishing tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures? Head on over to the Road Trip Angler YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our  Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

The post Coosa X vs NRS Pike Pro and Kuda 126: Best Kayak for Fishing? appeared first on Hazeadventure.