Dagger Katana 9.7 – Style Points or Hollow Points For This Whitewater Kayak?

More often than not, you can tell a lot about a product by looking at its name alone. While this may not always be the case for some of the kayaks out there, you will find that the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak is one craft that truly lives up to its name. That’s because it is quick and sleek, slicing through the water like a hot knife slices through butter. It’s quite an impressive watercraft.

 

As a crossover boat, the Dagger Katana 9.7 can be used in numerous water conditions. Stable and sturdy, it is a choice that many beginners and intermediate paddlers would actually appreciate. Providing a smooth and balanced gait when on the water, it is easy to see how its design and build truly excels.

Many paddlers have noted that it easily inspires confidence, even for those that may not have a well of paddling experience under their belts. This Dagger Katana 9.7 review will reveal these attributes and more below.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

Dagger Katana 9.7 Frame

Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak

One of the very first things about the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak to take note of is the fact that it is quite ergonomic in build and style. It is designed to showcase a balanced profile, which ensures that the craft keeps its speed when used on flat water. This also allows it to successfully retain its maneuverability when used on rapids.

Check out our Dagger Axis 12 review and our Dagger Mamba Creeker review!

Primary stability for the Dagger Katana 9.7 is reinforced by its precise hull design. It is constructed with flared and beveled sidewalls, all of which are aimed toward providing it with some necessary secondary stability. Paddlers will also appreciate the rounded shape of the stern deck. This allows for easy water shedding.

This is indeed one very forgiving craft when used in moving water. Precision is very evident in how the whole craft is designed. The makers have clearly envisioned the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak as one that will do excellent in flat-water, but will also live up to the more challenging rides in rapids.

Nimble, light and stable, paddlers will love how the Katana offers a good amount of space for movement in the cockpit. While it looks a little small and short at first glance, it is quite surprising to find that it has a considerable amount of legroom inside.

Dagger Katana

Paddlers will also appreciate the ergo seating system implemented in the cockpit area. This is equipped with a leg lifter, padding on the seats and back, as well as pads for the hips.

If there was anything that the makers of the Dagger Katana 9.7 may have had in mind when they were drafting out its design, it was probably comfort. This is certainly not what many kayaks out there can say for themselves, as there are many brands that are way too focused on style instead of comfort.

The craft’s frame is made from polyethylene, lending considerable sturdiness and overall strength to the kayak. The material does not require constant care and maintenance, which further reinforces the idea that this would be the go-to craft for busy paddlers who may not always have time to spare.

 

Features of the Dagger Katana 9.7

The cross-over boat design allows paddlers who want to experience both flat water and whitewater to have a reliable craft they can use. The Dagger Katana 9.7 is the perfect match for adventurers who want to enjoy water trips that are multi-expedition in nature. Paddlers that don’t want to have to limit their paddling adventures to just whitewater alone will really love the hybrid nature of this kayak.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

The ConTour Ergo seats are also worth noting. With paddlers who love longer and multiple trips, the manufacturers have made it a point to implement a seat system that is appropriate for longer trips. The seats are also outfitted with thigh and knee pads to ensure optimum comfort, as well as safety, when sitting in the cockpit for an extended length of time.

Dagger Katana 9.7

The Dagger Katana 9.7’s balanced rocker profile provides great stability, which is really huge when it comes to the design of this craft. It ensures that this is one kayak that will stay steady in most conditions when on the water.

For the inexperienced paddler, this is a huge plus, as this ensures that they will not have a hard time keeping their balance while trying to learn the basics of maneuvering the craft. There is also the TruTrak skeg system, which can be adjusted to keep you in line during windy weather or rough water conditions.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

The Dagger Katana 9.7 is also fitted with carrying handles, which are located along the stern and the bow. Comfortable and easy to hold, this ensures that it will be easy enough to transport the craft and carry it around.

The spacious cockpit is great for people who prefer a lot of legroom. Some paddlers have had the misfortune of getting stuck in rather narrow and cramped cockpits, which is obviously very uncomfortable. This cockpit has a 20 inch width and is 35.5 inches long, which is pretty roomy.

Storage

The Dagger Katana 9.7 is designed to offer considerable storage for the paddler. It is equipped with reinforced hatches, along with removable bulkheads. As a result, what the paddler gets is not just excellent legroom in the cockpit, but some spacious storage areas for gear and other items that might be needed for extended trips. There is also bungee cords on the deck for additional storage.

Pros

  • Versatile hybrid craft for flat water and whitewater use
  • ConTour Ergo seats are perfect for extended trips
  • Spacious cockpit for ease of movement while paddling
  • Balanced profile ensures maneuverability and speed, regardless of water conditions
  • Plenty of storage space for gear and other supplies
  • TruTrak adjustable skeg for additional control in extreme conditions

 

Cons

  • The Dagger Katana 9.7’s cockpit may be too small for those with longer legs
  • Entire length may be too short for those who need more storage and room
  • Only has a 210 pound weight capacity, not yet mentioned in this Dagger Katana 9.7 review

 

Dagger Katana 9.7 Review Conclusion

Overall, buyers will find that the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak is a very good choice for a hybrid kayak. For those of you who want to have a craft that you can use for both flat and white waters, this is definitely the kayak for you.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

While there are many instances of products ending up being less impressive than their monikers that inspired them, the Dagger Katana 9.7 does not. If anything, it is one kayak that truly lives up to the reputation of the sword that it is named after.

Versatile, balanced, fast, maneuverable, and definitely comfortable, it is not a surprise how there are so many paddlers out there that have opted for the Dagger Katana 9.7 as their kayak of choice.

Boreal Design Esperanto Review – A Viable Tandem Sea Kayak?

As one of the more versatile kayaks out there, the Boreal Design Esperanto PE Rudder Tandem Sea Kayak is also one of the fastest, most comfortable, stable, and easiest to paddle of the tandem models. The sophisticated methods used in the creation of the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak means that it is one of the best models today, especially when it comes to accuracy, speed, wind resistance, and overall craft stability.

Significantly longer and heavier than other crafts made of the same materials that belong to the same category, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is stable as it is durable.

Designed to withstand long hours on the water, this is a kayak that every enthusiastic aspiring paddler would certainly want to experience firsthand. So let’s dive into this Boreal Design Esperanto review and see what it’s all about.

Check out the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak on Amazon!

Boreal Design Esperanto Sea Kayak

Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak Frame

Made from molded polyethylene and weighing 96 pounds, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak was developed with the use of CAD technology. The computer assisted-design ensures that the resulting kayak is one that is effectively shaped and designed from high quality molded plastic, to showcase a build that is not only sturdy, but stable too.

So much care and attention was spent on the design to make sure that it was properly calibrated to take into consideration such factors as the stability of the craft and its overall speed. In fact, at 15 feet long, it is one of the fastest of the many tandem kayaks that are on the market today.

Aside from a steady frame, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is also built with a large rudder, soft chine, and the rocker is moderately sized. All in all, these elements help in making it easier and more efficient for the craft to perform turns when in the water. It is specially designed so that the cruising needs of the paddlers will be easily fulfilled.

Thanks to its molded plastic material, along with mold-in graphics, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is not only expected to be maintenance-free, but one that is also expected to remain in top shape for a very long time.

Features

The Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak has a rigid and hard outer shell, made with molded polyethylene, and is designed to truly stand the test of time. No matter how many times a week you will decide to drag it out to the water, it is going to easily withstand any bumps along the way. The best thing about it is that it is maintenance-free.

Check out the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak on Amazon!

The fact that this kayak is equipped with a rudder is good news for those paddlers who want more control in turning the kayak without having to work as hard at it. Many new paddlers love the configuration of a tandem kayak because it allows them to learn how to paddle with a more experienced kayaker. Others love that they can work together as a team to get where they’re going, especially if it’s a longer trip.

For people that are still in the process of learning the ins and outs of paddling, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is a great craft to hop on to help them learn the basics from someone who is very experienced and well-versed. This is a great opportunity for parent and child paddling interactions also.

One of the hassles of sitting, while paddling for a long time, is that it can get cramped and uncomfortable. Thanks to the thoughtful design of the seats on the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak, paddlers will be assured comfort, even when paddling for extended periods of time. The cockpits are properly spaced out so that both paddlers won’t hit each other’s paddles while moving forward.

With the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak, you can tell that there was a lot of thought that went on how it should be designed. It is crafted with much emphasis on giving ample space between the cockpits to ensure that paddlers will have the necessary freedom to move about when without having to constantly fear that they might end up hitting each other.

Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak Storage

Boreal Design Esperanto

This Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak has 3 storage compartments, one on each end and one in the middle. The bow compartment measures 10″ x 10″ and can hold about 15 gallons of supplies/gear. The middle storage compartment measures 18″ x 14.5″, and the stern area measures 14.5″ x 12.5″, so that’s a pretty decent amount of storage to take all the gear you need with you for the day.

Check out the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak on Amazon!

There is also the option of installing a child’s seat in the middle if you wanted to take a family trip. There are straps throughout on the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak that will hold down extra gear as well.

Pros

  • The Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is high quality with an excellent build
  • It’s heavy weight makes it more stable when on the water
  • Good amount of storage areas
  • Maintenance-free, which means less hassle for the owner
  • Easy to turn around corners and very easy to maneuver
  • The Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is one of the fastest tandem kayaks
  • Center compartment can serve as a child seat
  • Ample space between cockpits to avoid collisions

Cons

  • Has a recommended weight capacity of 260 pounds, less than other kayaks
  • The Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak’s heavy weight might be a a challenge to carry around and transport

Boreal Design Esperanto Review Conclusion

All in all, the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is a reliable and stable touring vessel for those who want to experience the joys of tandem paddling. This makes the perfect buy for parents that want to introduce the wonders of paddling to their kids early on. Add to that the fact that it is made from sturdy materials, so you know that you are getting the best out of the money you will be spending.

Check out the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak on Amazon!

With people these days leading busy lives, most would not really have the time to spare to get their kayaks cleaned up and maintained the moment they get home from their paddling trips. It is reassuring that what you are getting with the Boreal Design Esperanto Kayak is a craft that is designed to stand the test of time without needing a lot of attention from you.

For another option, check out our Axis 12 review here.

As we mentioned earlier in this Boreal Design Esperanto review, it’s fast and easy to maneuver, and is undoubtedly one of the best tandem kayaks out there today.

Top 5 Kayak Paddles – Best Bang For Your Buck Edition!

As almost everyone knows, some kayaks come with paddles and some do not, so you have to purchase them separately. That’s when you have to do your research into a paddle that will be suitable for the type of kayaking you will be doing.

There are many paddles to look at, with different price variations, depending on ease of use, material, weight, and more, but which one is the best kayak paddle? We will keep expanding on this guide, but for now, take a look at these best kayak paddle options to see if they would be a nice fit for your particular activity.

Best Kayak Paddles On The Market:

 

1. Carlisle Magic Plus – Polypro Blades/Fiberglass Shaft

 

Carlisle Magic Plus kayak paddle

If you are looking for a paddle that is light and durable at the same time, you cannot go wrong here. Made from glass-filled polypropylene, you can expect a high impact paddle that will have an impressively long lifespan. The Carlisle Magic Plus has a weight of 35.6 oz, is 220 centimeters (a little more than 7 feet) long, and comes in 3 colors, Cloud, Sunrise, and Dark Cherry.

 

It is also available in lengths of 230 centimeters and 240 centimeters. The paddle is designed to perform powerful and smooth strokes, all thanks to its symmetrical shape and the slightly spooned shape of its blade.

The shaft is made from flexible fiberglass, which provides the holder with a sturdy paddle stroke, along with a slight flex that is necessary to significantly reduce stress along the joints. The blades are filled with fiberglass too, which means that it is not only durable, but it is significantly lightweight too. If you are looking for a paddle that is designed to take a beating, this one certainly takes the cake.

Some people might find it a little bit of an inconvenience that there are only very small movements that are allowed between the two pieces, due to its stiffness. However, adjusting the configurations of the paddle is quite easy to do. It is convenient that it can be broken down during transport too.

At the price that it is offered, it is certainly one reliable paddle. No wonder this one made it as our #1 best kayak paddle selection.

Check out the Carlisle Magic Plus on Amazon!

 

2. SeaSense X-1 Kayak Paddle

 

SeaSense X-1 kayak paddle

Probably one of the best-priced paddles on the market today, the SeaSense X-1’s lightweight blades will be a huge plus for users that don’t want to end up straining their arms too much when using this paddle. The paddle is made up of two pieces of blades that are made from black molded plastics. The shaft is a two-piece construction fashioned from aluminum.

 

For buyers that are looking for both comfort and value, this is one good purchase that will certainly deliver. While there are users that may find the overall length of the paddle, at 84 inches, to be a tad bit short, this makes for a really excellent spare.

The SeaSense X-1 is designed to float in the water, and it is equipped with paddles that have adaptable angles. The blades can be turned to three different positions, depending on your preference. While the paddle does feel lightweight, it does not feel flimsy at all, which ensures that it can carry out some really vigorous strokes when in use. The cushioned grips attached on the shaft makes for some comfortable paddling.

Check out the SeaSense X-1 kayak paddle on Amazon!

 

3. Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Posi-Lok

 

Aqua-Bound Sting Ray kayak paddle

For people who are looking for a well-constructed paddle that is lightweight and sturdy, this is one excellent buy. Considering the price, the high standards in which this product is created is certainly notable. The light weight of the blade means that it is able to easily slice through the water in a smooth fashion.

 

The strong build of this Aqua-Bound paddle allows it to be used to improve one’s overall performance. The quality carbon used to construct the shaft lends a larger circumference to the handle, but it is also responsible for giving it a sturdier feel. The paddle is designed to be detached and adjusted, and there is a two-button release on the shaft to perform this feature.

The excellent material with which the product is made ensures that it is able to resist corrosion. There is a slight flex on the shaft, along with a low weight on the swing, as a result of the carbon construction of the shaft. The strength and stiffness of this best kayak paddle option are further enhanced by its carbon fiber blades. Overall, this is one sturdy paddle.

Check out the Aqua Bound Stingray Kayak Paddles on Amazon!

4. Werner Camano 2 Pc Straight

 

Werner Camano 2 Pc Straight

This Werner Camano paddle boasts of the ideal balance between durability and weight, thanks to its careful handcrafting using pressure molding. It is sturdy and lightweight, thanks to its carbon and top-quality fiberglass blend design. For the kayak users that really value a well-balanced paddle, this one will certainly live up to expectations.

 

The paddle’s 2-piece design means that it can easily be broken down. This ensures easier transport, as well as storage when not in use. The paddle also features an adjustable Ferrule System, which ensures that the feather can be easily adjusted to different angles.

When on the water, it can be noticed how the kayak paddle creates minimal flutter, which makes it possible to create forward strokes that are exceptionally flawless and smooth. Drag is also reduced thanks to the asymmetrical shape of the blades. This selection for our best kayak paddle list is able to easily and smoothly pull through the water. It does not require a tight grip, so it greatly reduces stress on the wrist and arms.

These blades are beautifully crafted. Since they are designed to glow while in the water, it helps lend more visibility as you paddle. These mid-sized blades are also designed to keep the user’s lap dry, thanks to its drip rings. It’s meant to be used with a touring kayak.

Check out the Werner Camano 2 on Amazon!

5. Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle

 

Bending Branches Angler Classic

If you are looking for a kayak paddle with features that are angler-friendly, then this classic offering from Bending Branches would be ideal for you. This is certainly the paddle of choice for those that love fishing excursions. It is designed with a built-in retriever for hooks, which is quite useful if you need to rescue lures, free snags on the lines, as well as on those occasions where you need to land a rather massive fish.

 

Its Angler Classic’s fiberglass shaft lends a lot to its overall durability. It is also fashioned with a measurement system, which makes it easier for the avid fishing enthusiast to get a good recording of the measurements of his catch, both in centimeters and inches.

The length of the paddle allows the user to have it raised high up in the air, which lends to a more minimized splashing the moment that it touches back down in the water. This helps if you are using it to fish, so as not to scare a potential catch away. It is designed to have a lower angle for paddling, which results in less water that drips toward the boat.

The paddle is impressively sturdy, and for people that are looking for quality at a good price, this one is a clear winner. The fact that it offers some really interesting features, on top of being your usual kayak paddle, makes this a really fun piece to have around.

Check out the Bending Branches kayak paddles on Amazon!

This best kayak paddle option also comes with a snap button ferrule, which ensures easier storage and transport. If you love some extra features on your paddle, this would be quite an interesting purchase.

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem Kayak Detailed Review

The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem Kayak is a medium length watercraft that comes with some distinctive features. It’s a strong, quality vessel for people who like to go kayaking with a companion.

This particular model is yellow and it is one of the few on the market that is designed to offer great performance and convenience for the money. The careful balance of features and functionality is evidently the standout aspect of the watercraft and any buyer will need to analyze them carefully.

 

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem

The unique design of the Polarity clearly establishes the boat as a product from Riot Kayaks, a well-established company. The design of the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 is not the only thing that stands out with this watercraft, however. There are other features, like storage and the frame, that gives it a unique identity.

A key issue that any buyer seeks to find out is whether a product will perform as expected and give them value for their money. By looking at the various aspects of this tandem kayak, we will be able to establish the real value of the boat in this Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 review.

Check out the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem Kayak on Amazon!

 

Frame

The entire frame of the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 is made of strong polyethylene, with only the seats and peripheral parts being made of other materials. As the frame is the most vital part of any boat, it is great to see such a strong material being used for its construction. Most durable and lightweight kayaks are made from polyethylene and as such, durability and portability can be expected with this product as well.

Check out our Top 14 Fishing Kayaks article!

Looking at the bare specifications, the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 weighs almost 90 pounds and the maximum weight that it can support is well over 500 pounds. That could hold two average sized adults and a considerable amount of gear.

In terms of size, the watercraft’s length measures about 16.6 feet, despite its description, and it is 25.6 inches wide. With such dimensions, most kayaks would not have enough space left for much else. This is not the case with the Polarity 16.5 Tandem, however, as the frame is designed optimally in such a way that no space will go to waste.

Check out our Best Kayaks 2018 – Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide!

The hull of the Riot Kayaks Polarity is constructed in the unique catamaran design to improve stability and speed. Great performance is expected with this kayak, as it is compact in all aspects. The exterior of the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 is also streamlined in an almost perfect symmetry where each side of the boat is a mirror of the other. Seats, storage compartments, foot braces and all other important aspects blend in quite well with the frame design.

The overall construction of the frame is commendable, especially since it contributes to its enhanced performance.

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Features

The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 does not fall short of features. One particular feature that gives this boat an edge is the Contour-Fit seating system. This system is great for allowing quick adjustments on the seats and deck for both users.

Such adjustments allow people of different statures to use the kayak comfortably. The quick-lock foot braces are also adjustable and offer maximum support for efficient paddling, and there is a pilot rudder system included to ensure easy steering. In terms of handling, rubber handles are included at both the front and rear ends of the boat for easy transportation.

 

Riot Polarity Tandem Kayak

The cockpit space is also quite sufficient for allowing users to enjoy uninhibited movement when paddling, measuring 32″ x 19″, which provides plenty of space for average adults. Another important feature is the tunnel hull, which makes for easier tracking, stability and speed.

With an elevated mid-section, much of the weight is distributed evenly and users of any level will not find it hard to use this boat. Overall, the features that the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 comes with works well for both experienced users and beginners.

 

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Storage Space: Is There Enough?

There are many storage options that come with the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5. To start with, there are compartments at both the front and rear ends of the kayak. These compartments are covered with Thermolite hatch covers for maximum protection.

The compartments are able to hold a huge amount of gear and the shock cord storage included is also great for securing any extra gear that might be needed in an excursion. The straps between the cockpits are also great for keeping any items that do not need protection from water.

Overall, there are ample storage options with the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5. Considering that the design is optimized for performance, there is no cause for concern even when all the compartments and storage units are fully loaded. This kayak is fast and agile, good for long trips and that’s what most people will use it for, so storage will most likely be full.

Check out our Best Inflatable Kayaks 2018!

The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 might be compact, as we’ve discussed in this Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 review, but it is still a long kayak, so finding a place to store it when it is not being used might pose a problem. Also, transporting it requires extra equipment and/or a truck, so if you have a small car, you might be better off looking at a smaller kayak.

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Pros

  • The pilot rudder system is great for tracking
  • The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 has a great design that allows for great performance
  • The hull design is great for stability and speed in the water
  • Storage compartments are able to handle a lot of gear
  • Features a minimalist, but effective design

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Cons

  • The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5’s weight can be bothersome when transporting it over long distances
  • The seats might be too close for people of a bigger stature

Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Review Conclusion

The Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem is a great watercraft for those who are looking for a quality tandem kayak. It is made by a reputable company that has produced remarkable products in the past. With a great design and various comfort and performance features, the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 holds its own on the market.

There are many things to consider when purchasing a good tandem kayak, but the most important of all is value. The performance, durability and functionality aspects of the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 are the standout features, which make it a formidable option.

It is best for day or overnight trips, but not a good candidate in the way of convenience, when a short trip is planned, like fishing. If you’re an angler, be sure to also check out our Riot Escape 12 review.

Check out our Origami Kayaks article!

Dagger Axis 12 – Sharp Handling Kayaking Experience?

Acquiring a reliable kayak is every water lover’s dream. As such, experienced kayakers will always run for functionality rather than brand. And that is where the Dagger Axis 12.0 kayak comes in. Its manufacturer, Confluence Outdoors, has specialized in the production of polyethylene kayak models.

Like most other handy kayaks, the Axis has very little to offer in the way of aesthetics. Yet beyond aesthetics, it carries a punch and is able to handle various weight types quite well. This is what makes it a kayak worth taking a look at, which we will do in this Dagger Axis 12 review.

For other options, check out our Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS review here.

How Strong is the Frame of the Dagger Axis 12?

Dagger Axis 12.0 Kayak

The Dagger Axis 12 is made of rotomolded polyethylene, which makes it very light to carry and easy to maneuver in calm waters. In rough waters, it requires a steady pair of hands. The sit-in kayak measures 12 feet in length and has a width of 27.5 inches, which compliments its length to provide the vessel with more stability. The round hard-shelled hull is sturdily built and interspersed with the cockpit’s coaming, hatches and handle joints.

The kayak’s formulation is meant to provide it with water cutting abilities. It has a prominent front overhang, and the bow area is more raised than the stern area. On flat ground, the Axis 12 might seem more horizontally shaped, but once in the water, the sheer lines become more raised on the bow.

Fully rigged, the kayak weighs only 55 pounds, and this solo vessel can carry up to 350 pounds, which is way above the weight of the average kayaker, plus some essential gear.

The Dagger Axis 12 has a considerably wider cockpit than other kayaks, which allows for ease of entry and relaxed maneuverability. The cockpit area alone makes it a kayak worth considering for new, as well as experienced paddlers.

The inner cockpit area is also quite roomy, with a length of 38 inches, catering for most kayakers with their legs fully outstretched. If you are one who doesn’t experience the joy of getting sprayed with water, the coaming on the Dagger Axis 12 is capable of accommodating spray skirts quite well.

Dagger Axis 12 Kayak Features

In the way of comfort, you will get a ConTour CFS-R Seating System, which will supplement your paddling needs quite well. The system is composed of a foam padded base seat and backrest. The adjustable backrest allows for optimal spinal support and comfortable seating positions.

Additionally, the seat comes with a leg lifter to ensure maximum support to the legs, whether slightly arched or fully stretched. Needless to say, the seating is specially formulated for both recreational and sporting activities.

Dagger Axis 12

While we’re still taking about comfort, the Dagger Axis 12 comes equipped with ConTour knee pads in place to protect your knees from injury during rough water maneuvers. The knee pads can be readjusted to work as thigh pads too. Should you need more, you can also get an additional pair of thigh braces to create more stability during paddling.

Carrying your kayak to and from the water is easy. There are two soft touch handles that are easy to grasp, and they are located on both ends of the boat. With its low weight and the easy to grip handles, you will not feel the Dagger Axis 12 drag as you carry it.

The TruTrak Adjustable Skeg System is on hand to aid in the way of stability and tracking. The retractable skeg can be pulled up whenever one does not wish to use it. To control it, you would use the adjustable slide lock XL foot braces that are provided on the kayak.

Storage Space!

If you fear water leaks, you needn’t worry about any water getting into the Dagger Axis kayak cockpit. Separating the hull and the cockpit from the stern hatch is a stern bulkhead. The stern bulkhead ensures that water does not seep into the cockpit area via the hatch or the molded-in storage area.

The Dagger Axis 12.0 kayak has only one hatch, and that is the stern hatch. It is conveniently located close to the paddler’s seat. This enhances easy retrieval and storage of items placed inside the hatch. Close to the stern deck is a molded-in storage area. The area can hold small items that you might need right away, and it is secured by bungee cords.

The bow section also has another molded-in storage portion. The mesh deck covered storage point is a vantage storage area for things that one might not require immediately. Here you can store supplies and emergency equipment, and it too is secured by bungee stretch cords.

An extra paddle would help, should you lose your primary paddle in rough waters. For that reason, the Dagger Axis 12 has a paddle park where you can place an extra set of paddles. You should always be prepared for the fact that you might lose your grip on the paddle you are using, especially in rapids.

Pros

  • Easy to use for all users, from inexperienced to experienced kayakers
  • A spacious cockpit
  • Comes with a skeg that enhances tracking abilities
  • Versatile enough to use on various bodies of water
  • Light enough to carry and transport
  • Comfortable, adjustable foam seating makes it good for long expeditions

Cons

  • The Dagger Axis 12 has little to offer in the way of storage space
  • Like most other PVC vessels, it requires lots of storage care
  • Might not be as robust, as its manufacturers claim, due to the material
  • The inability to accommodate motors slackens its speed
  • Lack of fishing rod holders makes it more of a recreational kayak

Dagger Axis Kayak Review Conclusion

At the core, kayaking is about fun, but serious kayakers require more functional kayaks, like the Dagger Mamba Creeker. The Dagger Axis 12.0 is not the most functional vessel one would expect to find on the market. Nonetheless, at its price, it is still a good bargain.

Check out the Dagger Axis 12 kayak on Amazon!

If you are searching for a serious kayaking experience, this is a kayak you might want to pass over. If you are going for a more recreational kayak with a touch of functionality, and maybe using it for family trips, then the Dagger Axis 12 will definitely serve the purpose.

All in all, it is a reliable kayak with minor shortcomings that can be overlooked, especially if you are just starting out.