Old Town Canoes & Kayaks - Killer Kayaks!

Pelican Kayak vs Old Town: Which One Produces the Better Kayaks?

Are you in the market for a new kayak and weighing your options between Pelican Kayaks and Old Town Kayaks? Both brands have been around for a while and both make great products and have a great fanbase.

However, if you’re like many kayakers, you’re looking for a kayak that offers a perfect balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

Pelican Kayaks vs Old Town Kayaks: Which One Deserves Your Money?

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of owning and renting several Pelican and Old Town kayaks so in this article, I’ll take a close look at both brands and their top 3 kayaks to help you decide which one is the better choice for your specific needs.

#1. Design and Performance

When it comes to kayaks, design and performance are crucial factors to consider.

I love the look for Pelican Kayaks. They are known for their sleek and modern designs and stand out for it. They offer a wide range of kayaks including recreational, sit-in, and sit-on-top kayaks.

These models are great for beginners and intermediate kayakers. Pelican kayaks are also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for calm rivers, lakes, and ponds.

On the other hand, Old Town Kayaks are known for their performance-oriented designs, making them ideal for experienced kayakers. They offer a range of touring and fishing kayaks with advanced features such as increased speed efficiency and extra storage space.

#2. Durability and Material

When purchasing a kayak, you want to ensure that you’re getting value for your money.

Now, Pelican kayaks are made from a high density polyethylene plastic that is incredibly durable and impact-resistant. They come equipped with several features such as adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders, making them perfect for fishing and recreational kayaking.

In comparison, Old Town Kayaks are made from 3-layer polyethylene, making them incredibly strong and durable. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and will last a lifetime with proper care.

As for durability, they’re both even!

#3. Affordability

Second Place Pick

Pelican Sentinel 100X

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The price of a kayak is another crucial factor to consider when making your choice. While both brands offer affordable models, Pelican kayaks are generally cheaper than Old Town kayaks.

Pelican kayaks offer budget-friendly models for novice kayakers, and they are a great way to start kayaking without breaking the bank. In fact, Pelican was the second kayak I ever bought because I could afford them and knew they performed well.

Old Town kayaks are typically more expensive but to be fair, they offer high-quality features and advanced designs.

#4. Guarantee and Customer Service

When you purchase a kayak, it’s essential to know that you’re getting a reliable product.

Both Pelican and Old Town offer limited lifetime warranties to their kayaks, assuring customers that they’re getting a high-quality product.

Both companies also have excellent customer service, evident from the numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers.

3 Popular Kayaks By Pelican

Following are three of the most popular Pelican kayaks you’ll find:

Pelican Catch 120

This is a 12′ recreational sit-on-top kayak. It has adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders.

Pelican Maxim 100

This is a 10′ recreational sit-in kayak. It has adjustable footrests, padded seats, and plenty of storage space.

Pelican Argo 100

3 Popular Kayaks By Old Town

Following are three of the most popular Old Town kayaks you’ll find:

Old Town Vapor 10

This is a versatile sit-on-top recreational kayak with adjustable footrests and a comfortable seat.

Old Town Dirigo 106

This is a 10’6” touring kayak. It has adjustable footrests, an ergonomic seat, and plenty of storage space.

Old Town Sportsman AutoPiloT

This is a sit-on-top fishing kayak with adjustable footrests and a comfortable seat.

Are Pelicans Good Kayaks?

As mentioned earlier, I recommend Pelican kayaks especially for beginner and intermediate level kayakers. They offer a wide range of models with advanced features such as adjustable footrests, padded seats, and plenty of storage space.

These kayaks are also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for calm rivers, lakes, and ponds. And yes, Pelican kayaks are great kayaks!

Are Old Town Kayaks Good?

Yes, Old Town kayaks are good and hold great brand reputation. Old Town Kayaks offer performance-oriented designs that make them ideal for experienced kayakers. They offer models with advanced features such as increased speed efficiency and extra storage space.

Old town kayaks are also highly durable, and with their advanced hull design, they can handle rough water conditions such as strong wind and waves.

Are Pelican Kayaks Tippy?

Pelican kayaks are usually very stable and not overly tippy. Most models have a wide and flat hull design which provides excellent stability in the water.

Are Old Town Kayaks Tippy?

Old Town kayaks usually have a narrower and deeper hull design which can make them tippier than Pelican kayaks. However, they also offer models with wide and flat hulls that provide excellent stability in the water.

Are Pelican or Old Town Kayaks Better for the River?

Honestly, both kayak brands produce kickass kayaks.

Pelican kayaks are great for recreational use and offer models with adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders which make them perfect for fishing or exploring calm rivers.

Old Town Kayaks, on the other hand, offer performance-oriented designs that are ideal for experienced kayakers who want to tackle rougher water conditions such as strong wind and waves.

Are Pelican or Old Town Kayaks Better for the Ocean?

Both Pelican and Old Town offer models that are suitable for use in the ocean.

As discussed previously, Pelican kayaks are great for recreational use in calm waters, while Old Town kayaks offer advanced designs that are ideal for tackling rough conditions. It really depends on your specific needs and skill level.

Which Kayak Should You Purchase: Old Town or Pelican?

So, I’ve used several different kayaks by both brands and can tell you they both offer eye catching design and good performance. b

I think Pelican Kayaks are perfect for novice and intermediate kayakers who want a budget-friendly kayak with modern designs, while Old Town Kayaks are more suitable for experienced kayakers who require high-performance kayaks that can handle tough weather conditions.

Determine your budget and what type of water you’ll be using this kayak in and then the answer will become much easier!

Old Town Predator PDL Kayak – Most Comfortable Fishing Kayak?

With the right equipment, such as the Old Town Predator PDL, kayaking becomes the most thrilling fun activity in the world of water sports. Designed with perfectly engineered ergonomics and aesthetics, this kayak is the ultimate choice for anyone seeking the best experience when traversing waterways. The Old Town Predator PDL kayak is specifically designed to cater to the needs of avid sportsmen, and with this comes durability, strength and optimal stability.

The Old Town Predator PDL Kayak’s features ensure that you will never be disappointed when kayaking, water rafting, fishing or taking part in other related water sports. As a matter of fact, its ability to seamlessly traverse both calm and choppy waters is incredible, a property that makes it a valuable asset for water sport lovers.

Note: Check out our best kayak reviews right here on KK!

Frame of the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak

The Old Town Predator PDL Kayak is designed by sportsmen for sportsmen, which translates to its tough exterior. Its chassis is composed of LT900 polyethylene for maximum strength, sturdiness and durability. For the sake of maximum stability, this kayak’s frame features a Tri-hull design. It also makes use of its slip-resistant exo-ridge deck to ensure perfect traction, thus preventing slippage, as well as better water resistance.

The Predator offers easier customizability as it comes with 6 mounting plates that are removable, thus removing the need to drill through the boat’s hull and damaging it.

With these rods, you can easily customize your kayak using fish finders and rod holders, among others, depending on your specific needs. With dimensions of 13 ft x 3 ft x 1.25 ft x 4 ft in length, width, seat height and leg length respectively, the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak offers more than enough space for accommodation of its user, as well as storage of the user’s equipment and supplies.

Features of the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak

#1. Forward and Reverse Pedal-Powered

The Predator PDL kayak is equipped with the most advanced features meant to ensure the best kayaking and fishing experience. First, it features the most reliable pedal-powered design for superb hands-free operation. Without having to struggle with paddling, the Old Town Predator PDL kayak gets you to your desired location faster and more safely.

Even better is the fact that its pedal-powered design offers both forward and reverse maneuverability, which ensures ease of control. The Old Town Predator PDL Kayak’s pedals are also padded for a better grip and comfort even when the user is barefoot.

[Read about Oru Kayak’s latest Kickstarter news!]

#2. Lightweight Design

The Old Town Predator PDL Kayak has a weight of only 117 pounds, which is light enough for easier portability. Its light weight is just a disguise for its great strength, as its frame has a weight capacity of up to 550 pounds. Its angler paddle is also lightweight for easier portability and operation, and it also comes with a carry handle that is really handy during transportation.

#3. 8 Scupper Holes

Safety is a matter of great importance when kayaking. For this reason, the Old Town Predator PDL kayak has 8 scupper holes that drain any water that will enter it. The scupper holes have a one-way valve that only allows water to flow out of the kayak, and never into it. This ensures that you stay dry throughout your kayaking or fishing experience, and that you do not face the risk of capsizing.

On its side, the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak has an especially molded-in transducer scupper hole, which is a perfect fit for deployment of Hummingbird transducers.

#4. Element Angler Seat

Measuring 21 inches in width and 15 inches in height, this element seat is designed specifically for the angler, as its inclination can be adjusted over a wide range with ease. Given its size, it can accommodate users weighing up to 550 pounds. Old Town Predator PDL Kayak features a side-lock system that easily adjusts the leg length to the most comfortable pedal stroke. This seat is padded for comfort and cushioning, even as you sail through rough waters.

#5. Quick Access Rudder Control Knob

Strategically positioned on its side is this kayak’s rudder control knob that allows for easier and faster access. This accounts for the greatly impressive steering control that is achieved by this Predator PDL kayak. When combined with its PDL drive, you can achieve up to 5.5 MPH speeds with the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak.

#6. Predator PDL Kayak Comes With 4 Color Options

The Old Town PDL Predator kayak offers 4 color options for buyers to choose from. These include the Urban Camo, Black Cherry, Camo and Lime Camo. Not only are these color schemes modern, but they are also attractive to the eye.

Old Town Predator PDL Kayak Storage!!!

The Old Predator pedal kayak offers optimum storage options, with the most secure being its Exo-Ridge tank. This tank well is large enough to securely and safely store your gear and equipment, while offering easier accessibility.

If you are into kayak fishing, then the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak is the perfect place to keep your cooler or storage boxes.

On both of the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak sides, there are holders that offer convenient recessed storage that keeps all your gear dry while keeping them accessible. In addition to these side holders, this PDL kayak’s drive console also offers dry storage for your gear.

For quick storage and placement of the paddle, the Old Town Predator PDL Kayak has a molded paddle rest that helps to free up the user’s hands, especially if they want to enjoy the pedaling experience.

Pros

Ease of customization without drilling of the hull
Forward and reverse maneuverability, which ensures ease of control
Better and optimal storage options
Old Town Predator PDL Kayak is compact and lightweight design for easier storage and portability
Best hands-free pedaling experience
Easier maneuverability, thanks to its quick access rudder control system

Cons

Old Town Predator PDL Kayak is a bit costly
Doesn’t come with a motor, but can be purchased separately

Old Town Predator PDL Review Conclusion

The Old Town Predator PDL Kayak is equipped with each and every essential equipment and technology you need to get to the next level of kayaking or fishing. It has a stand bar designed to offer additional steadiness and support when you get out of the seat. It also features Scotty triggers for optimum stability and buoyancy.

This pedaling Old Town Predator PDL Kayak not only brings the thrill to kayaking and fishing, but also gives users a personal connection to nature. Reliability, convenience, safety and durability are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy from investing in the Old Town Predator PDL kayak.

Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak Review – Practical For Fishing?

Fishing kayaks and anglers can be hard to find, so we took the Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak and ripped it apart. Is the Vapor 10 kayak a good angler?

Recreational kayaks are designed to be used specifically in slow moving waters. While they are not the perfect fishing kayaks, they’re just what you would need, a perfect balance of comfort and performance. Even though recreational kayaks are all created with a similar purpose in mind, some are obviously better than others.

The Old Town Vapor 10 Fishing Kayak is undoubtedly the best angler kayak in its class, and after reading our Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak review, you might find it perfectly suitable for not just recreation but also as a fishing kayak (aka angler).

Overview

A compact kayak with great versatility and lots of volume would be the best description of the Old Town Vapor 10 Angler. The Old Town Vapor 10 Kayak offers an efficient and stable ride with a large cockpit opening that was intended for comfort and storage. The stern day well is great for holding on to extra gear or filling up with some cold brews for a day of fun in the sun.

The Old Town Vapor 10 is a lightweight 10 foot kayak weighs just 47 pounds, and has carrying handles molded right to the front and back of the linear polyethylene body. The weight of the Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak and the built-in carry handles make it super easy to transport, even if you have to do it all by yourself. With superb control and tracking for its size, this one-person recreational kayak will allow you to maneuver easily across mellow ponds and flat lakes, whether you are a novice or expert.

Its other special features include flush-mounted rod holders at the seat, an anchor with a trolley system, and deck storage. Additional features are the adjustable padded ComfortFlex seat, adjustable foot braces, thigh pads and molded paddle holder.

Construction – Is it Well Built?

The Old Town Vapor 10 is made of single-layer polyethylene and is non-foldable. It has a carrying handle at either end and the hull is thick enough to withstand almost anything. The shape of the hull is fantastic and cuts through the water like a hot knife through butter. It also sits nicely on the water, retaining its balance quite well and its short length makes it very maneuverable. It comes in different colors including blue, red, orange and lime green. It does not come with a hatch cover.

What Makes This Angling Kayak Special?

Comfortable Seat

With this kayak, you just have to sit back and relax as you catch your targeted fish or even just some rays of sun. The Old Town Vapor 10 Angler has a very comfortable seat so you will find long distance paddling very easy. This seat has materials that mold themselves to your body shape to provide maximum comfort.

Tracks Nicely

Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak’s most impressive feature is that it tracks incredibly well. If a decent amount of speed is applied, it moves at an amazing pace as if it has a motor. The kayak is easily maneuverable and is perfect for slow moving rivers, ponds and lakes. Its effortless paddling also makes this kayak extremely efficient.

Stability

The Old Town Vapor 10’s stable platform and large volume offer tons of stability and load-bearing capability without making it handle like a steamship. The extra large cockpit offers room to move about and makes getting in or out a breeze. It’s a good all-purpose boat for lake and river day trips. The bull design of the kayak handles smaller waves and chops well. Larger close waves, however, will break over its bow and get into the cockpit. The construction is strong, so even if you had a few rough landings on rocky shores, the hull would have almost no scratches.

Thermoformed Polyethylene

The Old Town Vapor 10 Angler kayak is made from one plastic sheet of high density polyethylene. The thermoformed plastic material in the hull is durable and provides better abrasion and impact resistance than more expensive fiberglass hulls.

Storage Space – Is it Sufficient?

The Old Town Vapor 10 Angler Kayak provides a lot of room for your gear, including a dry hatch with a lockable top, a flexible cooler, duffle bag, and room for more stuff on the side. There’s room behind the seat for a sleeping bag, and more gear between your feet.

Pros

With a maximum load range of between 275 to 325 pounds, the Old Town Vapor 10 suits heavier kayakers
It has a paddle rest molded onto the kayak so that you can rest the paddle when chowing down, fishing or taking some photos
Made with durable polyethylene
Adjustable ComfortFlex padded seat offers all day paddling comfort
Comfortable knee/thigh pads for great fit and control
Skid plate on the bottom protects the kayak from wear and tear
Relatively short hull eases transport to the water, turns readily and takes up minimal storage space
Very stable, great for beginners
Good tracking

Cons

The drain plug location is terrible for actually finding the perfect position to get the water out. You strain like crazy trying to find the right spot, tilting the kayak from side to side to get the water to run out of that hole.

About Old Town Canoes & Kayaks

Old Town Canoes & Kayaks is a well respected company that makes the best in recreational kayaks by focusing on comfort, storage space and ease of use. They also keep to traditional hull shapes and designs, so if you have been kayaking for a while, you will feel right at home in an Old Town kayak.

Review & Verdict

The Old Town Vapor 10 Recreational Kayak is a superb choice for fun lovers, beginners, photographers, and anglers. You can rig and mount fishing gear to use it for fishing purposes. You get excellent stability, good tracking, and a handful of features at a decent price.

Check out the Old Town Vapor 10 on Amazon!

While its drain plug is in a relatively poor place in regards to where the kayak sits in the water, the overall design makes the Vapor 10 Angler a silent, comfortable ride. This model allows you to save money by foregoing the far more expensive brands in favor of something more affordable and of better quality.