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How Long Will an Oru Kayak Last? Exploring Durability & Long-Term Performance

For a long, long time, kayaking was an activity that required room and space if you wanted to own a kayak. That was until the Oru kayak was released: it was one of the first folding kayaks in its class that was built with durability, longevity, and space in mind. These collapsible boats are constructed from high-quality materials and can be stored and transported with ease.

Hands down, because I live in an apartment and own a small car, the Oru kayak is one of the best purchases I’ve made in life. But before you buy it, you may have the following question:

Realistically, How Long Will the Oru Last?

The question of durability is an important one when it comes to any purchase, especially if the item you’re buying costs more than the average. The Oru kayak is no exception and its longevity depends mainly on how much care you give it.

If you’re using your folding kayak mostly for recreational purposes, then with proper maintenance and storage, it can last up to 15 years or more. It’s important to keep the kayak clean and dry after use, as well as store it in a cool place out of direct sunlight. This will help ensure that the components won’t crack or weaken over time.

If you plan on using your Oru for more intense activities, like touring or even whitewater kayaking, then you should expect to replace it every 5-10 years or so. The more wear and tear the kayak goes through, the shorter its lifespan will be. You may also need to replace some of the parts periodically due to normal wear and tear, but as long as you take good care of your Oru kayak it should still last you for many years to come.

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Oru Kayak BayST Folding Kayak - White

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It’s important to note that the Oru kayak is not indestructible so it should be handled with love and care and given regular maintenance and attention in order to get the most out of it.

If you take proper care of your Oru kayak, then it should last for many years and give you countless hours of fun out on the water like mine has for me!

The Basics of the Oru

Before diving into the topic of durability, it’s important to understand the basics of Oru Kayaks. These boats are built from lightweight but sturdy materials like polypropylene and ABS plastics.

They feature an origami-inspired design that allows them to be easily folded down to manageable sizes for storage. Users can assemble and disassemble an Oru Kayak with ease thanks to the intuitive snap-lock system, and the compact design means that these boats can be taken anywhere – from the trunk of a car to the overhead compartment on a plane. Which in itself is absolutely incredible.

The Durability of Oru’s Construction Materials

One reason why Oru Kayaks are so popular among outdoor enthusiasts is that they are constructed from materials that can withstand a great deal of wear and tear. The polypropylene outer layer is highly water-resistant and offers excellent UV protection from the sun.

Meanwhile, the ABS plastic rib supports provide strength and stability without adding excessive weight to the kayak.

The overall design of the Oru Kayak is engineered to maximize durability, with minimal stress points that can cause wear and tear over time.

It’s Made for Long-Term Performance

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Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak

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Despite their unique design and lightweight construction, Oru Kayaks are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, these boats can be used for a decade or more without any noticeable decline in performance.

When compared to traditional hard-shell kayaks, the Oru offers a significant advantage in terms of longevity.

Traditional kayaks are often subject to cracks, scratches, and damage from harsh weather and rough handling. In contrast, the Oru Kayak is more durable than an inflatable kayak but still lightweight and easy to transport.

How Many Times Can You Fold an Oru Kayak?

Oru kayaks are designed to be folded and unfolded as many times as necessary. With proper care and maintenance, these boats can withstand hundreds of folding cycles without any loss in performance or durability.

Of course, regular wear and tear from use will eventually cause the components of the kayak to weaken over time, but with proper storage and maintenance the Oru Kayak should last many years.

Can an ORU Kayak Sink?

No, the Oru kayak is designed to be unsinkable. The construction materials are highly buoyant and allow the boat to stay afloat even in rough seas and choppy water.

However, it’s important to remember that no kayak is completely unsinkable and if the boat takes on enough water or has a puncture or tear then it will eventually sink. That is why it’s important to practice safety and be aware of the conditions before you head out on the water.

How Do You Drain an ORU Kayak?

To drain your Oru kayak, open the drain plug at the stern of the boat. You may want to use a pair of pliers if it is stuck or difficult to turn.

Let gravity do its job – you should see water draining out the back of the kayak.

Once most of the water has drained, close the plug and make sure it is tightly sealed. You can then dry out the kayak with a towel or air it out in the sun until completely dry.

How Do You Take Care of an ORU Kayak?

Taking care of your Oru kayak is essential for ensuring that it will last you many years. After each use, be sure to rinse off the boat with fresh water and dry it completely with a towel. This will help protect the materials from saltwater corrosion and keep the Oru looking like new.

Also, make sure to store your kayak in a cool, dry place with plenty of air circulation. This will help prevent the components from cracking or weakening over time.

If you plan on leaving your kayak out for extended periods of time, make sure to cover it up with a tarp or waterproof fabric to protect it from sun and rain damage.

Best Origami Kayak!

Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak

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Finally, inspect your Oru kayak periodically for signs of wear and tear or damage. If you notice any issues, be sure to address them as soon as possible. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your Oru kayak will remain in excellent condition for many years to come.

Conclusion

An Oru Kayak is an excellent investment for anyone who loves kayaking but does not have the space for a traditional hard-shell kayak. I know I personally love mine and when I’m out for a solo trip and no one to help me carry a kayak, it comes in so handy!

With proper care and maintenance, an Oru Kayak can last for years, providing a lightweight, easy-to-use watercraft that can be taken anywhere.

Whether you are an experienced kayaker looking to explore new waterways or a beginner who wants to dip their toes into the sport, an Oru Kayak is a smart and reliable choice.

Sea Eagle vs Intex: Which One Produces the Better Kayak?

Have you been eyeing inflatable kayaks but can’t make up your mind between the Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks vs the Intex ones?

Man, I remember when I started kayaking and I started viewing my options for buying one. I remember taking forever to decide which one I wanted and today, I’m going to share everything about these two companies and their products as well as my top recommendations from both!

Sea Eagle vs Intext Inflatable Kayaks: 4 Main Factors to Consider

The Sea Eagle and Intext inflatable kayaks have been around for a while. In this article, I’m discussing each factor that I’ve considered when comparing these two brands and their products. I’ll also only be recommending the top 3 Sea Eagle and Intex inflatable kayaks (one person and two person options). Let’s dive in:

#1. Quality and Build

The durability and quality of an inflatable kayak are important factors to consider when buying one.

The Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks are constructed with high-quality materials and a drop-stitch construction that make them durable and long-lasting.

The Intex kayaks, on the other hand, are made with PVC material, which is not as sturdy as the materials used in Sea Eagle kayaks.

Therefore, Sea Eagle kayaks tend to be a better choice for those who want a kayak that will last for years.

#2. Performance on the Water

Performance is another crucial factor that you should keep in mind when buying an inflatable kayak. The Sea Eagle kayaks are designed for good stability, speed, and agility, while the Intex kayaks are not as quick or maneuverable. Moreover, Sea Eagle kayaks also have a higher weight capacity than Intex kayaks.

If you plan to take a lot of gear with you or if you’ll be kayaking with another person, Sea Eagle is the better choice.

#3. Ease of Setup

The ease of setting up an inflatable kayak is also something you need to consider before buying one.

The Sea Eagle kayaks have a slightly more complicated set-up process than Intex kayaks, but they come with detailed instructions, and you can easily acquaint yourself with the process over time.

The Intex kayaks are simpler to set up, but they lack some of the features and accessories that you’ll find on Sea Eagle kayaks.

#4. Price Comparison

Another important factor that you need to consider is the price.

Intex kayaks are generally cheaper than Sea Eagle kayaks which makes them a good option for those who are on a budget.

However, Sea Eagle kayaks provide better value for money in the long run, as they are more durable and will last for several years. Therefore, if you have the budget to invest in a quality kayak, it’s recommended that you choose a Sea eagle inflatable kayak.

How Durable are Sea Eagle Kayaks?

Sea Eagle kayaks are made from high-quality, drop stitch construction that make them extremely durable and long-lasting. In fact, they can withstand up to 3,000 lbs of pressure per square inch – meaning you can rest assured that your Sea Eagle inflatable kayak will be able to take whatever the elements throw at it!

Where is Sea Eagle Manufactured?

Sea Eagle kayaks are designed and constructed in the USA. The company is based in New York and they use only the highest quality materials to manufacture their products, ensuring that you get a durable and reliable product that will last for years.

Where is Intex Manufactured?

Intex kayaks are manufactured in China. Although Intex does produce some good quality products, the material they use is not as sturdy as what you would find in Sea Eagle kayaks. So if you’re looking for a kayak that will stand up to the elements and provide lasting performance, then Sea Eagle is your best bet.

Can One Person Use the Sea Eagle 370?

Yes, the Sea Eagle 370 is designed for one person and it can support up to 500 lbs of weight. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver so you should have no problem using it as a single kayaker. It’s also one of the best options out there in terms of an inflatable kayak.

Which Sea Eagle Kayak is the Best?

The Sea Eagle 380X is one of the best inflatable kayaks that Sea Eagle has to offer. It’s designed for up to three people and can support a total weight of 1,500 lbs. It also comes with a hull constructed from high-quality drop stitch material, making it extremely durable and reliable.

Which Intex Kayak is the Best?

The Intex Challenger K1 is one of the best inflatable kayaks that Intex has to offer. It’s perfect for beginner and intermediate paddlers, as it’s designed with stability in mind. It also comes with an adjustable seat and is lightweight and easy to transport.

Which One Should You Get?

Sea Eagle kayaks are typically better in terms of quality, performance, and ease of setup but they cost more.

Intex kayaks, on the other hand, are cheaper, simple to set up, and come with relatively lesser features and accessories compared to Sea Eagle kayaks.

If budget isn’t an issue, I’d go for a Sea Eagle 3 Person kayak or the Sea Eagle RazorLite as my top two options and then the Intex 68310VM Dakota K2 as my third option (if you need a budget option).

Both Intex and Sea Eagle have been around for quite a few years so whichever inflatable kayak you end up choosing should serve you well.

Riot Kayaks Astro 58 – Everything You Should Know About This PlayBoat!

The Riot Kayaks Astro 58 is a play boat kayak, which means it’s meant to be fast and perform tricks in whitewater rapids and on ocean waves. The innovative and ingenious design provides it with an adequate buoyant force that lets you fly along the surface of the water like you’re floating on air.

The edges of the Riot Kayaks Astro 58 are designed for precision to help you make even the most difficult of cuts and turns in the water, giving you perfect control over your kayak and a chance to show off some of those wild skills. Needless to say, it’s meant for advanced paddlers who have a lot of experience with whitewater kayaking. And you can see why in our Riot Kayaks Astro 58 review below.

Riot Kayaks Astro 58

Frame

The Riot Kayaks Astro 58’s frame is made with polyethylene and weighs almost 40 pounds, which is quite efficient for its shape and size. The Unity seating system is made with foam, with a floating backrest, which makes for a very comfortable ride, and also keeps you in control with thigh braces as well.

Check out our in-depth articles on the Riot Kayaks Polarity 16.5 Tandem and the Riot Escape 12 Angler

The vessel itself is 6.3 feet long, 26 inches wide, and comes only in red. There is no real room for storage, which could be a problem to some, but not for those who want a quick ride on the rapids.

Riot Kayaks Astro 58 Features

The Riot Kayaks Astro 58 consists of a single seating system, fit for only one person. A proper backrest is present on the immediate end of the seat so your back does not feel uncomfortable against the hard interior. Also, there’s less risk of an injury during hard jumps and lags while paddling your way through water.

Precise suregrip thigh braces are present that fit nicely to knee length for secure and proper protection of your legs and thighs while you are kayaking.

Two rubber grab loops and two rubber handles are fitted for easy access and transport of the Riot Kayaks Astro 58, making it easy to pick up and handle. An aluminum security bar is also installed on the kayak. They are strong and sturdy, used for pulling and grabbing in case of rescue situations.

Water can easily get inside your kayak, so it is very crucial for you to let it out. For that purpose, a strongly bolted drain plug is present, which shifts the water from inside the boat to the outside. Before jumping in, make sure the drain plug is tightly corked in first.

Astro 58 Red Kayak

Riot Kayaks Astro 58 Storage

The Riot Kayaks Astro 58 is stable enough to be stored on a universal storage stand made of aluminum. You can even store it inside your garage with a tilted wall mount so it can hang freely and can be easy to take off and hang back on. It is efficient as it helps to save space.

There is hardly no room for storage while in the water, as this play boat is meant for doing tricks and having a short, but fun time. This way, nothing falls out when you need to flip the kayak, it’s just you and your speedy vessel.

Check out our articles on best inflatable kayaks, best 2 person kayaks, and best fishing kayaks here.

Pros

Great for tricks, fast spins and jumping
Security bar, thigh pads for extra control and comfort
Powerseat compatible
Extra handles for ease of transport
Small size makes it easy to store

Cons

A little expensive for its size, but it performs quite well
Only has space for one person
Lack of storage

Riot Kayaks Astro 58 Review Conclusion

As you’ve read in this Riot Kayaks Astro 58 review, this kayak is safe and amazingly fun to use for a hobby or a special sporting event. The advanced features like the security bar, safety belts and handles make it a perfect watercraft for you to practice on and show your skills to the world.

Check out the Riot Kayaks Astro 58 on Amazon!

This is a very fun little kayak to get your hands on if you’re just looking for a quick thrilling ride and you don’t need storage on board.

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.

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Dagger Katana 9.7 Frame

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.

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.

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.

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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

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.