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.

Riot Escape 12 Angler Review – Faster Option Than Any Other Angler?

The Riot Escape 12 Angler sit on top kayak is best designed for determined fishermen and experienced anglers. This kayak is known for its craftsmanship and excellent features. Since it’s made especially for fishers, it’s a perfect blend of stability and performance, with lots of storage space to store your fishing equipment, bait and fish.

The design implementation of this kayak lets you relax and takes care of everything for you, so you can easily enjoy your time on the water, stress free. Let’s take a look at all the features in this Riot Escape 12 Angler review.

 

Riot Escape 12 Angler Kayak

Check out the Riot Escape 12 Fishing Kayak on Amazon!

Frame of the Riot Escape 12 Angler

The sleek polyethylene interior and exterior allows the Riot Escape 12 Angler to maneuver effortlessly in any kind of water. Weighing a little over 68 pounds, the kayak’s weight is equally balanced throughout the body, which means it can withstand sudden movements and not topple over.

Check out our Top 14 Fishing Kayaks article!

The length measures up to approximately 12 feet and the width measures is 30.7 inches or 2.55 feet. It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, which is very sturdy for a kayak.

Although it’s sturdy and can accept a nice amount of weight, the Riot Escape 12 Angler is not made for standing. There’s a good chance that you might be going for a swim if you were to try it. If you want to stand while you fish, a good choice would be the Fissot kayak or the Hobie Pro Angler 17.

Also, the seat is comfortable for a little while, but if you are going on a day trip, we advise that you get a better seat or more padding. The Riot Escape 12 Angler does not come with a paddle, so that needs to be purchased separately as well.

The Riot Escape 12 Anger is, in our opinions, a decent fishing kayak with the basics, but not the best one in its category. There are some things to be added to it, so it is far from perfect. But for a short, flatwater fishing trip, it will certainly do the job and you will be more than happy. Let’s take a look at some of the features below.

 

Riot Escape 12 Angler Features

The Riot Escape 12 Angler kayak features a vast set of functions and equipment. To start off, it has a safe sit on top feature with 4 attached points and adjustable straps that allow the rider to adjust them according to his or her needs, providing the utmost comfort.

The seat stays in the exact same position in which it’s adjusted in and does not budge in the slightest of ways, not even in rough waters, promising you excellent security. The seat has a higher back for support, but those who have back issues will want to add more padding, both on the bottom and in the back.

 

Riot Escape 12 Fishing Kayak

Check out the Riot Escape 12 Angler on Amazon!

One of the most important features of the Riot Escape 12 Angler is the pilot rudder system. Because you want a safe and smooth ride, it’s essential that the maneuvering is done right, otherwise it would not bode well. The pilot rudder is constructed out of plastic, reinforced with glass, which makes it strong, yet lightweight, allowing you to easily operate it.

The Riot Escape 12 Angler also includes a low windage open work design, which reduces a considerable amount of friction caused by the wind. Also, the rubberized V block absorbs vibrations, which enables the kayak to sail more smoothly and is greatly appreciated by customers.

There are 5 rod holders, with 4 rod holders being stationary and one is a swivel, movable according to the rider’s preference. The mounted adjustable rod holder is another feature of the Riot Escape 12 Angler, which was retained and allows the user to rotate a full 360 degree turn.

You can adjust it vertically or horizontally, with easy and accurate placement. The rod holder also has an attached rear saddle, which can accept any kind of rod combinations. A large swivel locking ring prevents rod loss and the vertical swivel movement allows for easy rod placement.

 

Riot Escape 12 Angler Storage

 

Riot Escape 12

 

As mentioned above, the Riot Escape 12 Angler can carry up to 300 pounds, which is pretty decent for any kayak. Most of the storage is present in the rear deck, with strong straps overlapping it so that any equipment or storage material doesn’t move or fall off. You could hold down a cooler in the back for either drinks or fish.

The front hatch mostly takes care of smaller equipment, and there is a cup holder right in the middle of the cockpit, as well as a covered storage area. The Riot Escape 12 Angler’s design and shape allows the weight to be equally distributed throughout, which makes it exceptionally stable, even when all the equipment is loaded.

 

Pros

  • Equipped with great features and easily accessible storage
  • Exceptionally stable due to the length and width ratio
  • 5 rod holders, one of which is adjustable
  • Anglers love the sit on top design
  • Nice storage capacity, at both the front and rear
  • Comes with a pilot rudder, installed anchoring system, drain plug and scupper plugs

 

 

Cons

  • Does not track very well, according to some buyers, so the rudder should be down at all times
  • Although the kayak is stable, the bottom part of it is quite uneven, which might make paddling more challenging
  • The seat is not designed for long trips, can cause soreness and/or back pain
  • Storage compartments are not completely waterproof

 

Riot Escape 12 Angler Review Conclusion

Even with its flaws, the Riot Escape 12 Angler is a popular kayak and is highly rated and recommended, as the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. It consists of more features than an average kayak with the same amount of money, making it budget friendly.

Overall, the kayak is easy to use, with lots of storage space and the most important thing is that it does not compromise on safety and quality. Because of its installed features, it promises a fun and smooth ride.

 

 

This kayak is mostly designed for flatwater use, like on a lake. That is most likely due to its lack of tracking and speed, and that it doesn’t have a motor to make up for it. However, there are some people who have modified this kayak to add a trolling motor, lights, cameras, and more.

Check out the Riot Escape 12 Angler Kayak on Amazon!

If you do decide to modify it, it has to be carefully done and you need to know exactly how to do it. But without any modifications, if you’re looking for a stress free day out on the lake all by yourself, then the Riot Escape 12 Angler is definitely for you.

You won’t be facing any kind of trouble throughout the whole trip. Happy fishing!

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 – A Reliable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak?

From a company that has specialized in the manufacture of small lightweight water vessels, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is a masterpiece worth reviewing. It is not majorly superior to others, and to an untrained eye, it is as casual as almost any other common fishing kayak.

To the trained eye, however, there is a little bit more to it than what is seen at first glance. For that reason, whether you are a fully skilled or trainee kayaker, you need to read through this Sun Dolphin Journey 12 review.

 

Sun Dolphin Journey 12

Check out our list of top 5 Sun Dolphin Bali Kayaks!

Framing Construction of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is a 12-foot long, rigid, high-density polyethylene kayak specially formulated for this brand. The Fortiflex material gives the boat high UV resistant qualities. It also gifts the deck of the boat with anti-scratch and anti-crack qualities, which are crucial, especially when kayaking in rough waters.

Check out the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 on Amazon!

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12’s length, combined with its 29.5-inch width, augments its spear-like shape, enhancing the ability of the boat to cut through the water with very little challenge. This sit-on-top kayak’s height comes to about 14 inches, which will serve the user quite well in rough waters while avoiding unnecessary water splashes into the boat’s cockpit.

 

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS angler kayak

This fishing-tailored kayak is also considerably light due to its material and minimalistic rigging. At just 48 pounds, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is quite an easy fit for all levels of kayakers to contemplate using. For color diversity, you will get the kayak in two colors, olive and sand. This makes it especially easy for the user to blend in if they’re fishing in murky water.

For its overall build outlook, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 maintains a simple deck streamline. It has an almost horizontal lining all through it from the aft to the stern. The aft and stern overhangs are also not overly done, which creates stability, even for an inexperienced pair of hands.

Check out our information analysis on the Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS kayak here.

The deck curves into a well-planned cockpit area. Regrettably, the cockpit area does not embrace an extra lining of cushion, which can become a little uncomfortable, especially after a long period under the sun.

 

Features of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 Kayak

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS has a nice pair of tough thread nylon handles, fitted with a cushy rubber grip to prevent injury during tows and carrying. The pair of handles, contained on top of the fore and stern deck areas, are retractable.

Check out the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 on Amazon!

This solo vessel is capable of accommodating up to 395 pounds, which is a very good standard for almost all sizes of kayakers. This also makes it suitable for long fishing expeditions. To top up the wide range usability feature, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 has simple, but comfy form seats.

The standard seat fits well within the wide cockpit to allow for easy maneuvering. However, there are a few people that may find the standard seats to be a little uncomfortable. Unfortunately, you’d have to buy seat pads at an extra cost, if you’re going on day trips.

Check out the Sun Dolphin Bali 13.5 Tandem Kayak here.

Sun Dolphin Angling Kayak

Check out the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 on Amazon!

Apart from the comfort offered by the open cockpit, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 also comes with thigh pads. These pads are a plus, especially for people who tend to suffer from muscle pulls due to having their legs in such a prone position for long periods.

Adjustable foot braces will keep your legs in place for whichever water conditions you want to experience. The braces have a significantly long tweak, making them capable of accommodating various ranges of leg lengths.

 

Storage

True lovers of fishing kayaks start with the storage space, then aim for the aesthetics. The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is not at the top when it comes to storage space, but it has enough for an ordinary catch. There are two storage areas, the first being a dry storage compartment. Located on the fore deck of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12, it offers space to carry a few essential items for a good ride. A molded-in front bungee compartment works as an alternative spot for the storage of ‘easy-access’ items such as nets and bags.

 

deck spaceThe stern of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS, on the other hand, contains a portable accessory carrier, which can be used as an extra storage container. In order to ensure that you do not lose your items, both the aft and stern deck regions are retrofitted with tough elastic shock cords. These cords are stretchy enough to allow for the pulling of bags in the bungee sections and the removal of the PAC too.

As a fishing kayak, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 has two flush-mounted fishing rod holders. These rod holders are strategically placed just behind the kayaker’s seat. This makes it convenient for the kayaker to adjust the fishing reels.

The center cockpit area features a nifty swivel fishing rod holder, which goes a long way in making the fishing experience more pleasurable. The positioning of the swivel rod holder is the single most innovative thing the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 carries.

Pros

  • The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is light enough for one person to carry
  • Cheaper than most kayaks offering the same functionality
  • Easily stabilizes in rough weather
  • Ideal for beginners, as we’ve alread learned in this Sun Dolphin Journey 12 review
  • Addition of a P.A.C creates extra storage space

 

Cons

  • Blatant lack of hatches takes away from its ‘fishing capable’ feature
  • Material can be brittle, so no dragging it on the ground during storage and transportation
  • Seating is not suitable for all users, so extra pads might need to be purchased

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 Review Conclusion

There is on thing about Sun Dolphin models that never sits well with most buyers, and that is the material. Lightweight as they come, they always seem to suffer the problem of brittleness. However, that is a problem that is also reflected in a good number of polyethylene kayaks.

Check out the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 on Amazon!

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is still a good vessel to fish in, and one that a newbie can learn to kayak in. If you are graduating from total inexperience in kayaking to a beginner’s level, this boat is one that you should consider looking at.

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl – Considerable Improvement Over Previous RL Models?

Sea Eagle Boats has made a name for itself in the inflatable boats market niche. A lot can be written about the company’s keen attention to the quality of its boats without specifically zeroing in on any particular model.

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl review below seeks to concentrate on this lightweight tandem kayak as one very competent boat, both in sight and functionality.

 

Sea Eagle razorlite 473rl

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Frame

For starters, this kayak is space-centric, like most of the best kayaks on the market. Measuring at a length of 15’6″, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473 rl inflatable kayak is long enough for tactile functioning. Its width of 2’6″ gives it a narrow build which enhances its bullet shape. Those two factors are good enough to make the boat cut through water more efficiently than other kayaks within the same category.

[Check out our other Sea Eagle articles here: Sea Eagle 370, Sea Eagle Fast Track Tandem, and Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker.]

Important to point out are the tough plastic molds that make Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s stern and bow. The good thing about having such a build is the fact that you can be sure that those rocky spots won’t cause you any worries. Additionally, the double concave build on both of the molds gives both of them a heightened water cutting ability which is commendable for an inflatable kayak.

One good thing about inflatable kayaks is their lightweight attribute. The 1000 denier material (quite tough) does not betray the boat’s lightweight nature. The drop stitch technology also makes the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl very tensile. The 3 chambered body is composed of the starboard, floor, and the side hull.

All this leaves the inflated boat’s hull weight at just 43 lbs, which is light enough for one person to carry it. In conjunction with the boat’s build, this helps to increase the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s ability to maneuver through the water. For your air needs, the kayak’s hull holds three air valves, one for each chamber.

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473 top view

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473 rl inflatable kayak interior is as clean and spacious as you would expect of a respectable vessel. Made of the same materials as the exterior, the interior space measures 14’10” x 21″. The space on this kayak is enough for the accommodation of up to two people.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

The interior tubing is quite thick too, to make sure that the boat’s occupants do not suffer the cold effects of the surrounding water. Gauging 10″ high and 4″ thick, you are well covered. To provide further protection from the water, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl also comes with bow and stern spray skirts.

Check out our list of the best kayaks of the year here.

How handy is this kayak? It comes with two drain valves, which renders it way better than most other kayaks, which hold only one drain valve. Sea Eagle does not boast about it, but the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s straight hull build provides it with almost the same build reflex found in rigid non-inflatables.

For extra stability, you get yourself a nice slide-in skeg. However, the Razorlite lacks its own pair of rudders or motors to warrant the handy skeg it comes with. However, it fits in well with providing anchorage for those downwind and upwind movements. For portability purposes, the boat comes with a comfortable pair of handles.

 

Features of the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl has one of the most comfortable seating spots available for inflatables. The high back thermal molded foam seats are decent for both long and short kayaking experiences. Moreover, they support rigorous back movements during paddling.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

The seats are tied down to the kayak’s floor using a tie down seat strap. The straps are attached to a set of D rings, which are in turn are retrofitted to the kayak’s interior sides. The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl can be used in both tandem and solo forms.

For the solo form, you only need to position the seat within the middle-most point and tie it to the middle D-Rings.

Razorlite 473rl in the sun

For enhanced comfort during paddling, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl comes equipped with two parts of removable footrests. The footrests are also adjustable to allow for all leg lengths and comfy positioning. Paddling, on the other hand, is expected to be very easy on this kayak. Two standard detachable spoon paddles come as part of the package. Each spoon paddle is composed of two asymmetrical blades and two shaft rods, which are joined using interlock mechanism screws.

The shafts of the paddles have feather holes on them which reduce the effect of the wind on your paddles, even as your struggle with the water. This makes the paddles good enough for speeds of up to 6 MPH. The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl derives its carbon tag from the use of the lightweight carbon fiber build of its paddles. As such, you can get an idea of how much the paddles are instrumental in the kayak’s full functionality.

A standard feature also is the availability of a hand pump. The hand pump, we have to admit, is not the best on the market. The addition of a foot pump would have gone a long way in making it more handy. Nevertheless, this minor setback is offset by other factors.

The boat’s build allows for a faster inflation. The one-way valves make it easy to pump air into the kayak no matter how ineffective the pump is. The mesh material of the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s hull also makes it quite handy when it comes to air filling.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Carrying a Sea Eagle inflatable kayakThose factors give the boat an 8 min setup ability. Should you feel that your hands can’t do with the hand pump, you can get yourself a Sea Eagle BP 12 electric pump, with a car rechargeable battery. It should be pointed out though, that high-pressure air compressors should not be used on the RazorLite.

Apart from the the areas mentioned above, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl also comes with a backpack carry bag and a repair kit. The all purpose carry bag not only accommodates the deflated 30″ x 19″ x 9″ hull, but also carries any extra pieces of the boat within it. The repair kit, on the other hand, is composed of a strong adhesive, prick needle and PVC patches and is only meant for minor repairs.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Storage Space in the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473

For storage purposes, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl does not feature any hull attached hatches. The seats, though, have their own pairs of storage pouches at the back. These zipped storage pouches do not account for much in term of space, but they can be used to carry a few necessary items such as first aid essentials, a flash light, sunscreen tubes and your repair kits.

For other items such as rod holders and hatches, you might need to seek different alternatives.

Pros

  • The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl is very light and easy to maneuver
  • NMMA certified, which is proof of its adherence to safety standards
  • Quite easy to setup, about 8 minutes
  • Swept Back Rear Skeg, which can be removed
  • Backpack carry bag
  • 10 psi inflation pressure
  • 750 pound load capacity
  • 2 AB40 paddles included

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Cons

  • Lacks sufficient storage to make it an angling or long trip vessel
  • Sleek build may prove challenging to use

 

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Review Conclusion

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Pro Carbon Kayak has a lot going for it in terms of speed and sharpness. Its lack of storage is not a good enough reason for you to ignore it. Looking at the high number of customers who have praised it, there is little that they don’t like.

In this Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl review, we have learned that this inflatable kayak is very strong, is NMMA certified, quick to set up, holds more air than other kayaks for rigidity, and cuts through the water effortlessly. This is the perfect kayak for a day trip