Comparing speeds of 20 inflatable kayaks + more

[@denisgilbert1283]

A video comparing inflatable kayaks and you don't have a proper pump? Man, priorities. Enjoying the video, very useful, thanks.

[@alexandrospotamianos3546]

Excellent video - thanks! A have owned 4-5 inflatables/foldables over the course of the past 20 years and here are general comments on speed: 1) there is a tradeoff between speed and balance that you should consider: balance is more important for expedition kayaking where you carry lots of gear vs speed which is important for day trips, 2) dropstitch floor is the most important component of a speedy boat it will give your boat anything from a 0.4 to 0.6 mph additional speed, e.g., clocking my yellow advanced elements w/o dropstitch and with dropstitch over a 1h paddle the difference is a whooping 0.5 mph: 3 vs 3.5 mph (btw stay away from the red advanced frame shown in this video it is too small/slow), 3) full dropstitch (also on the sides of the boat) might give you another 0.2 mph, 4) there are a few details about hydrodynamics and boat construction that are important, e.g., little tricks like increasing the water flow in the fin area will improve tracking (see the advanced elements expedition elite model curve right before the fin), balancing the boat weight in the back and especially the front of the boat will also improve speed, 5) the super light boats like the (longer versions of the) oru kayak and advanced elements airfusion are super fast but balance is a bit of an issue, 6) speed when paddling against the wind or in waves: the more rigid and better tracking boats will do much much better. All in all: if speed is your thing buy a full dropstitch boat or a pakayak (my choice) or an oru (bay or coast models). For (ocean) expedition kayaking my personal choice is still the advanced elements expedition elite (but there are pet-peeves there; message me if interested to learn more about how these boats behave for expedition kayaking).

[@inneradventures]

Man, you sure have a lot of data! Maybe you should make videos about this stuff. You seem to be more knowledgeable than me. Where are you located?

[@alexandrospotamianos3546]

@@inneradventures currently in LA, but did most of my kayaking in the Greek islands solo, with groups of friends or off sailboats. Started kayaking with a seaeagle while living in the island of Crete and then graduated to advanced element boats.

[@Creativelomax]

Jack, this segment turned out very well. Yes, my filming was a little out of focus, but your clear narrative and slick graphics kept me engaged and interesting. As an informational video thats more important. Good luck 👍

[@allonsy9808]

Glad to see the razor lite performed well. 😊 I have the Razorlite 393 and really like it. The seat is terribly hard for long days of paddling, but I love the footrests and sleekness of the kayak. Thank you for the video!

[@inneradventures]

Huh, interesting about the seats. i find them yo be betfer than any other I've ever seen.

[@turbod15]

@@inneradventures had to return mine had defect

[@cre8iveworks]

Great video and interesting comparisons! I think all of these kayaks are good space saving options. I have the Tucktec foldable kayak, the Advanced Elements 'Advanced Frame' inflatable kayak and the hardshell nesting modular Pakayak 14' kayak. I really enjoy all of the kayaks and the differences and limitations for each. All three are recreational kayaks, but are made for different water conditions. The Tucktec is a great kayak for calm waters and works well since it packs down small. It's not engineered for speed, but for a very leisure paddle on still and sheltered water (lakes, calm creeks, etc.). The Advanced Elements is a great kayak as well, but wouldnt compare this to longer 'faster' boats that are intended to gain a greater distance within a length of time. The Advanced Elements kayak is a very stable and rugged inflatable kayak that can be used in up to class II rapids, so its a bit more versatile than a foldable and yet still very stable to take camera gear along. It also offers great options to customize the boat for your needs. For example, for even better tracking, I use the backbone and since the floor is a little too soft for me, I also added the 'Durafloor'. To me, this is one of the most stable kayaks. Well, actually, the Point 65 'Martini' is by far the most stable two-piece modular kayak, but that wasnt included in the lineup. The Pakayak also wasnt included, but is a great option for a recreational hardshell kayak that breaks down into 6 pieces. By the nature of the size and design, the Pakayak will be faster than the foldable and inflatable, but is also a recreational kayak that if compared to a SKUK or a P&H, it would probably come up quite short. I guess my point is, all kayaks are great to a degree of 'just being happy to be on the water' and yet still have their limitations based on the design and intended use.

[@coolcaasports]

Great video

[@grbcmom6928]

Thank you for the information - your videos are always educational and helpful. We purchased two Aquaglide Chelan this year, and enjoy them - we are not going for speed thus far, so they suit each of us and a doggie passenger just fine. Look forward to further installments down the road.

[@tessvandijk2351]

Great video, thanks for sharing. We bought 2 razor lites and now have ordered a tandem from China. Couldn’t afford another Sea Eagle. Thanks for the info.

[@stevesampier527]

I have that Advanced Elements kayak and it is over 10 years old. Good thing you were clear about it being underinflated, because it was significanlty underinflated. And talk about an unfair comparison. However, even properly inflated, it paddles like a bathtub.

[@almuhito]

Hi Jack, great video. Do you have the purchasing link for the generic drop stitch kayak that looks pretty identical to the razor lite?

[@LeadingPaws]

It’s directly shipped from China, like everything else on earth lol. They cost about 250 and sell from 500-1500 depending on how greedy the companies who rebrand them set their prices.

[@rvaillant]

Thanks. Still would be awesome if you could post a link for the Generic kayak. Thanks

[@gloppy101]

@@rvaillant Amazon had them for a few months, but that was two years ago. I have not seen one again. That's always an issue with a no name, here today/gone tomorrow item.

[@lorantbercsik5809]

Nice speed test. But one more aspect: I have had some inflatable kayaks over the years. Sevylor, Itiwit, Gumotex and Advanced Elements. (I have a Sup too) There is no big difference in max speed in still air. But the Advanced Elements AE-1012 is much less wind sensitive than the others. The rest is all blown away by the wind.

[@jfg7331]

Did you tried the itiwit x500...?

[@lorantbercsik5809]

No, I didn't.

[@jfg7331]

@@lorantbercsik5809 well, that’s the fastest inflatable kayak out there . The closest to a rigid one

[@lorantbercsik5809]

@@jfg7331 If I have the opportunity, I will try the Itiwit x500. I think it's fast, but I'm not sure it's the fastest. There are also fast ships on the market: Seaeagle Razorlite, Advanced Elements Airfusion Evo ...

[@gloppy101]

Jack, that Aire kayak is known as the Aire Sawtooth. I had one it's built like a tank with heavy duty materials. To cure the wet ride (it'a open scupper design since a ww hybrid/touring) use a stadium seat. They work great, especially on this kayak. Build quality is argubly better than any of those in your group.

[@chriswelzel58]

Hi from down under Jack. The peddle canoes are to enable you to fish as you move through the water. You paddle to get to a location then peddle as you flick lures as you need two hands to fish.

[@inneradventures]

I don't fish, so I won't pretend I understand much about that.

[@Kevin_geekgineering]

man we are waiting for a long time for your more videos about kayaks and kayaking, please update and send more videos

[@Reaversword3D]

Impressive video. Really hard work to prepare, transport and test every one of that boats!

[@RemindThemAboutGeorgeFloyd]

Great job bringing in the terravent. Never would have known it existed

[@ofer3877]

Hi, great video, thank you for that. Do you know where I can get the Chinese version of Razorlite kayak? Thanks

[@FL-ez3dk]

Great video Jack! I can’t wait for spring season with our wonderful crew !

[@jezmarshall9941]

Superb as usual. I'd really like to see some Gumotex/Innova models included in your tests.

[@inneradventures]

They are soooo rare here. i would totally include them, but getting them is really hard.

[@alexkram]

I loved this video. Great effort and data. My wife says we look alike.

[@brancebjones7205]

I'm very much looking forward to the video on ordering a cheap chinese knock-off of the Sea Eagle RLs. I've subscribed :) so i'll be on the lookout. Good luck!

[@M_J_nan]

If you go to New Zealand, make sure to try their Barracuda beachcomber. It was amazing 20 years ago and should be even better today. I cried when we sold ours before moving back to Sweden...

[@inneradventures]

Thank you for the tip. I am intending to be in a couple of months.

[@ademite]

kayak #10 is one that would attract fishermen since Hobies are like $5,000+ and that thing is under $900. Just steering is weird since you don't really wanna paddle on a peddle kayak since you would probably be holding your fishing rod. Since i don't see any rod holders on that thing that kayak is perfect platform like you stated for people who are DIY or handy with making things like rod holders etc.

[@stephaniea9722]

Thank you for this video! I think you did an excellent job with what you had to work with. Personally I got a Sea Eagle 385ft for a good deal recently. It was very comfortable and stable with two people in it. Sad I didn't see it in this comparison (it's different than all the others with the keel in the bow). It felt effortless to move. The only thing I worry about is the glued seams. I've heard they can separate. I'm looking to buy a 2nd inflatable but the ones that I am interested in also aren't in this video: The Driftsun Rover 220 and NVS Star Paragon XL. The Driftsun is the most interesting one to me because it's less than 30lbs. But I just don't see many reviews on it. The NVS Star kayaks look like they're built like a tank (and weigh like them too). We have a lot of submerged trees here so I want something durable too. There are so many tradeoffs - Speed, durability, stability, and weight - all are important to me. I don't see a "Unicorn" in the mix (unless you have one hidden behind the camera).

[@BaconPretzel]

I have the 385FT too. Sick boat. I believe they resolved the seam issue. It was a problem on models manufactured before 2014. The current models (2014 onwards) and 98% electronically welded and 2%gl glued where they cannot physically weld.

[@gloppy101]

Sea Eagle 420X rated at 855 vs Saturn Ocean Pro at 900lbs. Wish you had paddled the Saturn Ocean Pro and the Advanced Elements EVO (speed demon). The Oru Bay handles wind and waves much better than the SE 393RL (owned both). Also agree about a sea kayak and my P&&H Capella is very fast on the water compared to any inflatable or folder. Lastly, I thought your video was fair, unbiased and interesting.

[@reinhard89]

Great video Jack! Would you say the chinese knock off is pretty much identical to the sea eagle in regards to looks and feel? they look the same to me but I wonder if you notice any major differences in person. Thanks!

[@inneradventures]

no major differences. just a bunch of details

[@edutiss]

@@inneradventures do you know any reliable places to get it or is it from alibaba?

[@tartakd]

Here is how I would approach comparing different kayaks for performance. Get some weight measurer, ideally with logging capability, that would measure weight every second, but a regular luggage scale would do. Get a boat with a trolling motor, tether it to the test kayak, putting a weight measurer in between (on the boat side). I would have the tether split in 2 and attached to the two front seat D-rings of the tested kayak , rather then the bow handle, because that's where the paddle enters the water. Each tested kayak should have the same person seating in, or 2 people for a double kayak. Actually, it would be good to test a double kayak with one and two people separately. Then you set the boat with the trolling motor to the same speed (about 4mph measured by a GPS) every time and measure how much pull each of the kayaks has. This test doesn't account for kayaks not going in a straight line or the effects of the wind. It measures how resistant they are to the water. The less weight the weight measurer shows, the better the kayak. The logging capability would allow to get the median value, thus being more accurate. As an option, the second person on the boat doing the readings can do 10 consecutive readings or so in a few minutes from a luggage scale, once the speed is stabilized and find the median of them.

[@inneradventures]

Yeah, I was thinking the same way and even got the scales. But then I realized that while it would give us data on water resistance of the boat it would not tell us how fast it is in real life. Sure there would be a correlation, but the real life value of the info we'd get would be minimal. Figuring a better way to do it would be to get a DC variable speed electric winch that would allow us to put the same amount of wattage on it. Then we can measure speed with exactly the same amount of work put in. that would be much better.

[@tartakd]

@@inneradventures Are you saying you want to pull a test kayak at various speeds with a variable speed winch having a very high torque and measure the difference of pull weight with a scale? You can do the same by going with different speeds using a trolling motor by going different speeds. I can't think of a winch design work, because winches use cables that wrap around the shaft and you want to have a floating rope. I guess, you can build a shaft extender and wrap a rope around it? I've also never heard of a variable speed winch. It should be some other motor with speed control. Maybe a trolling motor put sideways with a shaft for the rope attached. Why are you saying that the water resistance test that both of us thought of has little value? Isn't it what we are doing when we paddle - overcoming water resistance and the less of it, the better?

[@inneradventures]

Water resistance and speed will most likely correlate, but ultimately we are after the speed, that's the thing that matters to us. I am not sure winches like what I am imagining exist, but I know DC motors like that exist. so theybcan me made. And for rope even a fishing line might suffice.

[@tartakd]

@@rangerkayla8824 To have consistent results between kayaks you can't measure speed when there's a 300lb person in one kayak and 100lb person in another paddling at the same cadence. Similarly, you can't compare the speed of a kayak driven by an out of shape 150lb person vs. an athlete of the same weight. Even the same person is tired one day and full of energy the next. What would be ideal is a method where human factor would be taken out of the equation, similar to how they test airplanes in the wind tunnels.

[@canoecycle7005]

First of all really enjoyed the video & thank you for confirming what I already new. I have a friend that has a lot of subscribers who has been using his inflatable kayak along the coast wanting to ask him to add a warning about the speed of the tide & the wind doesn't mix well with inflatable kayaks. He has no kayaking experience prior this. Looking for the best way to put this across

[@inneradventures]

I'd use a simple rule of thumb - if you don't have enough kayaking experience to clearly answer the question "Should I go paddling on the ocean?" The answer is a No.

[@hoseinesmaeeli291]

Great job I never like any videos but you help to knowledge of amateurs like me 👌

[@PeterKolta]

Good to see you again, Jack! Next Time you're welcome to test my Gumotex Twist 2 ín Hungary! The Chinese foldable seems great. I wonder how durable it is and hope it doesn't fall into pieces after a couple of times.

[@inneradventures]

Hungary is certainly a country I've wanted to visit! And Gumptex is a brand I've heard a lot about, so I'll keep this in mind. Chinese foldable seems to be made from the same exact material as Oru, so I hope it lasts a while

[@kulmofo]

@@inneradventures can I ask where you purchased the knock off

[@gloppy101]

@@inneradventures is that the Forest Gumptex model? LOL

[@benp8]

What is the brand and model of that generic version of the Razorlite? Or where can I find one?

[@inneradventures]

Funnily enough it has no brand nor model.

[@benp8]

@@inneradventures Thank you for your reply. Do you know where they sell them, or maybe what search terms I could use to find one online? Or maybe a link?

[@inneradventures]

No, sorry, I can't

[@IngoGerth]

Decathlon has an interesting lineup of inflatables in Europe. Check out especially the itiwit x500, let me know if you want to check it out in Germany!

[@IngoGerth]

PS: would be awesome if you posted the ranking in the video description.

[@JoachimGeeraert]

There's both a ~€650 10psi 1person model and a ~€1200 15psi (so use the right pump..) 2person version. On sight, they appear to have a longer hull than the Sea Eagles. No skegs and they fit a splash cover.

[@susannajohnson6693]

I and several other family members bought Itiwit 2-person kayaks this summer and they've been great! We paid about $120 each for ours. It has three skegs and you seem to be able to buy bigger ones on Decathlon's website if you want them. They aren't terribly fast, and can be pushed around by the wind It is a "category 2" vessel, but we've had no trouble patting them dry, bagging them up, then drying them fully later.

[@anhiro5133]

@@JoachimGeeraert every review of itiwit 500 I’ve read says “ tippy”.

[@jm-bv1wh]

@@anhiro5133 I've read reviews that say otherwise.

[@bluedoggum8373]

Can you link to the sea eagle Chinese version youd recommend. Thanks. Nice vid.

[@KayakingVince]

Great selection and fascinating results. A real shame you don't have an Itiwit X500 to compare to the sea kayak though.

[@yellowglider]

Nice video… Any chance you can post a link to that Razorlite knockoff? And, have you ever had the chance to try a Bote Zeppelin?

[@inneradventures]

No and no.

[@ser6ioT]

Very nice und detailed video! Many thanks from Germany:)

[@appslg3phone]

Great video. When you tested the longer Razorlite you had two people on board. It would most likely perform better if you only had a single person like you did with the short model.

[@ALoonwolf]

This is nice to compare. In my opinion the inflatable row boat is a much better choice of boat. It's superior in every way except it has a lot of drag slowing it down. The speed of the row boat is around 2 miles per hour, so around half as fast as your average kayak. But still all the other benefits for me still outweigh it. For example after travelling for that hour, how much water is in the boat? If it's more than NONE AT ALL then no thanks!

[@craigk7615]

Great video. would have like to seen a 10 foot pelican kayak $300-$400 dollar sold at major sporting stores and Walmart. And a paddleboard with a kayak seat and kayak paddle

[@inneradventures]

Yes, I wish I had more respurces to throw more vessels into the mix...

[@jameswang9487]

Thank you for another wonderful and informative video Jack. I was wondering if you could do a video on different mounts for secure video taking on the inflatable kayaks with a cell phone (without needing to buy a gopro)?

[@midestinoelmundo]

Thank you 👏👏👏👏👏 muchas gracias! Muy bueno!

[@Pathstobalance]

This was great! Appreciate the objectivity. Wonder how the paddleboard would do with a kayak paddle, I suspect faster

[@Pathstobalance]

@@txemaarechabala6639 very interesting thanks for sharing, I think you inspired me to keep my SUP (: I was way more into kayaking at the end of last season, but you are right SUPs offer alot of options which yaks do not.. Cheers!

[@DIYUSA]

Excellent video! Thanks for sharing the interesting info. Subscribed!

[@DavidGobeil]

Great review! Could you give tell me where to find the generic drop stitch kayak? Much appreciated, thanks!

[@wouterkolkman]

Fun!- enjoyed watching.

[@johncheung4005]

thank you , good job. good comparison. i want to buy oru, consider weight, the speed. after see this video, oru speed is good.

[@philhager]

Nice, informative presentation. I flyfish and am looking at the Saturn for the ability to move around while casting. Some questions for you. (Hard to cast and maneuver at the same time. Pedal could help on that.) 1. Do you currently have one I could check out? (Live in Gresham so easy drive to look at it.) 2. How "fast" does it travel while rowing? (Looking at flow speed VS rowing speed to row upstream in some rivers. Row up, drift and fish back down) 3. Where did you shoot the video? (Might want to fish there.) Thanks for any assist you might offer.

[@inneradventures]

I wish we connected earlier, I had that kayak. Now I left for indefinite period world travels. Paddling speed would probably be similar. As you can see count on being able to paddle about 3mph sustained, 4 peak. Or so

[@philhager]

@@inneradventures Thank you for replying. No problem. Have a good trip.

[@jillk1221]

Very informative video. Can you comment on how the footbraces in the Sea Eagle Razor Lite compare with the more common footrests found in most inflatables which stetch between two D rings?

[@kristaps2010]

I'm surprised how fast all kayaks are according to the results. I have inflatable kayak Grabner Escape1 (as they advertise professional universal travel kayak) and I always thought I'm going fast for an inflatable kayak. I am physically fit guy. Canal paddling (no current) my speed is 3.8mph (2hrs 51min paddling 17km/10.5 miles) in strong paddling mode. when taking easy it's 3.3mph. Really pushing sporty/gym/workout mode I did 4.1mph paddling 1hr 20 min 9km/5.6miles. UPDATE: I did my best speed when changed my technique to high angle. Did canal 5km 42:20 7.1km/h=4.4 miles/per hour. I tested on river Thames my average speed for all day paddle is 3.7-3.8 mph paddling with minimum current for 8 and more hours. Basically I calculated over 3 day kayak trip (paddling 8hrs and more a day) my speed was 3.7mph or 6 km/h. It's accurate as I timed myself from lock to lock and if took a photo of say swans I would stop the sportswatch. I believe SeaEagle 393/473 are constructed to be way faster kayak than my. But can't believe Intex Challenger K2 (3.53mph) is literally as fast as my kayak in taking easy paddle mode.

[@inneradventures]

That is such a cool data for you to collect and share! Thank you! Yeah, I am puzzled by the small amount of spread between the kayaks as well. And I wish I had experience paddling your kayak, I could actually say something about it. From the picture it sure looks faster than any Intex.

[@kristaps2010]

@@inneradventures Grabner does their kayak community meetings in Austria and kayak testing days for customers. Details are on their website. Thanks for sharing your tests.

[@inneradventures]

Sounds like a country I should put on my list :-)

[@kristaps2010]

@@inneradventures UK London. Grabner Escape 1 and Gumotex Safari330.

[@malinjansson1070]

Hello Jack Baikoff. May I ask why you dislike advanced elements? You are pretty clear in your statement "as much as I don't like.." Bad kayaks? Bad materials? Construction? Experience?

[@inneradventures]

Watch my other videos, I talked about it. They also got into a comment exchange with me at my other video that left me and many others not want to deal with them.

[@gloppy101]

As a long time owner of AE kayaks (17 years now) their kayaks are made with quality materials with excellent engineering. Jack doesn't like fabric over bladders saying they take a long time to dry. Tahe is fabric over bladder design too as are many whitewater boats from Aire and NRS. Fact the yellow Aire Sawtooth is treated vinyl fabric over bladder design too (I have it). His bias against Advanced Elements shows him to be not credible since they are known for their high quality kayaks and excellent customer service. I also have the AE Expedition Elite and the Island Voyage 2, both high quality. Advantage of fabric over the tubes is that if a tube is damaged, it's replaceable and not so with Aquaglide or Sea Eagle where the whole kayak is worthless.

[@gloppy101]

I call BS on Jack say that AE left him and many others not wanting to deal with them. Nonsense. They rank at the top (along with Aire and NRS for solid customer service.

[@hzc363]

Energy =mass*velocity ^2. So if you put the same energy into peddling, the ratio of energy efficiency will be the ratio of speed squared.

[@inneradventures]

Can you exapnd a bit on what you mean by "ratio of energy efficiency"? That formula sure explains why kayaks are closer un speed than I expected.

[@hzc363]

@@inneradventures ​ I meant that (efficiency = the kinetic energy of the boat / the energy of you peddling). Assuming the energy of you peddling is constant, and the boats weights about the same (as least for the single ones?), the ratio of energy efficiency = efficiency of boat A / efficiency of boat B = the kinetic energy of the boat A / the kinetic energy of the boat B = (velocity of Boat A)^2 / (velocity of Boat B)^2

[@inneradventures]

Well, I guess I am left with the same takeout - because of that "Squared" part we end up with boats performing way closer together than it intuitively seems they should.

[@bonnieborgeson3200]

Thank you, Jack, very informative. Have you tried the Aquagluide Blackfoot 130? I'm having a debate with myself as which to purchase. Touring, fishing. Thanks again.

[@inneradventures]

I did! in fact I am working on making a video about it. That kayak impressed me more than I expected.

[@barrybogart5436]

I'd love to have my Innova Swing 2 compared. But having said that, all three of my kayaks all 13', two inflatable, one hardshell all seem about the same speedwise. I think as theory holds, LENGTH rules.

[@ademite]

my spear fishing buddies all have like $3000 kayaks vs my $600 kayak they are miles ahead of me and im exerting 2x as much effort. Theirs just track straighter and glide much further with less effort. People need to understand kayak designs are for less effort when paddling it's not 1 model vs the other that's going to be much faaster like this test shows 1mph max 2 mph difference.

[@barrybogart5436]

@@ademite It's not about cost so much as size (length/width), hull design rigidity, etc. Are you comparing an inflatable to a hardshell? Manufacturers/models?

[@mystudentvideos]

I have watched a few of your videos. I appreciate the information and have learned so much. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints, I am limited to a category one kayak. Based on that, I would really appreciate one recommendation from that grouping. Thank you for your time.

[@ademite]

I'm getting the explorer k2 seems good enough to get out in the water and have fun. Just don't buy it on amazon i hear the company intex doesn't do refunds if purchased through amazon. Unless you just return it through amazon but i'd imagine you would need to buy a 3rd party warranty which generally you should stay away from those as they always come up with reasons to not warranty your stuff. quick google search would confirm that. I also own a regular 14ft fishing sit on top kayak thing is a tank but solid for spearfishing or fishing.

[@kristofferrydquist8384]

Very interesting comparison! Love to see the inclusion of foldables and SUP:s. I have some comments: The hull speed is something that you might not reach while paddling leisurely like in the test, therefore the water friction will be the main issue which explains that the 2 person version typically not faster than the 1-person. The slight tracking advantage is reduced by drag. My personal experience with various IK:s is that the top speed is limited a lot by the flex. Using proper leg technique just bends the whole thing, but maybe the drop-stitch versions will solve it.

[@Phrancis5]

Yes, the main reason why the tandem Razorlite is slower is because of more mass and "wetted surface drag". Tandems can be faster when both people are paddling in unison, which can be difficult for many and is why they are often called "divorce boats" LOL..

[@raymondmartens7803]

Is the generic drop stick the name of the company or generic means a random company? Im interested in this kayak can you give more specific brand name to it so i can look it up possible for purchase?

[@inneradventures]

it literally has no brand nor name.

[@Wolf8313]

This is the best-ever video about inflatable kayaks. It looked like you were calculating speed by measuring time over distance, so your calculation included acceleration and the turn-around at the opposite shore? Would a measurement of "cruising speed" be better and show more differentiation among the different kayaks?

[@inneradventures]

Thnak you! I measured time just one direction, so it accounts for acceleration only. Not turning nor decelleration. I think it's representstive enough for our purposes. You do accelerate in real life conditions, so feels fair enough.

[@drjohnashfield3915]

Sea kayaks are characteristically quite long and hard shell. They are heavy, but offer little wind resistance (I think?). Thinking about an inflatable sea eagle kayak for on the ocean, especially if big swells are encountered (not launching it, but out at sea) I imagine, that except for needing to wear the right clothing because of the inflatables being open, they are just as safe? The fast track sea eagle has appeal because of its stability and carrying capacity, but I wonder if it might tend to catch more wind than the razorlite? Where I live we have lots of seasonal offshore winds. My worry, if the wind came up strong, is that I would struggle to get back to shore in the fast track version. So long as I could still make reasonable headway this wouldn't be a problem, but I imagine the razorlite might be better for this? Downside would be that it doesn't have the self-draining capacity of the fast track. I suppose I could construct extended skirts for the razorlite to shed more water? However, if you think the fast track would be manageable in strong winds and heavy seas, I might prefer it. Also, can you suggest comparable but cheaper versions of these sea eagle products?

[@inneradventures]

Lately people have been asking me about kayaking on the ocean without much experience. I have a simple answer - don't do it. Gain experience in safer waters and then you'll answer your own questions and if you decide to hit the ocean - best of luck.

[@lapocasini1246]

Saturn seems to have a very seaworthy self bailing kayak, made for the ocean. Another though might be to get the efinity paddle assist motor kit which inserts into your skeg holder and have that as a backup as you learn the ropes

[@redblue7733]

Excellent video. Thanks

[@DueInCammino]

Interesting video, too bad you couldn't find something from Innova/Gumotex such as Swing or Seawave.

[@barrybogart5436]

And some of their new ones look good too....

[@dannyoneill1892]

Do you like the Paddle North kayaks, Jack? I may have missed it but haven’t seen where you’ve reviewed them. Thank you.

[@inneradventures]

Never seen them in real life. In pictures look identical to Advanced Elements Airvolution. I suspect my tiny review of that kayak might be relevant.

[@dannyoneill1892]

@@inneradventures Thank you very much.

[@allabouttires1941]

GREAT VIDEO. (I TYPE IN CAPS) THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME . WHAT IS (GENERIC FULLY DROPSTITCH KAYAK)MADE BY????? THANK YOU DAVE AND NANCY (NUBBES)

[@rg3965]

I'm still trying to understand how you can rate kayaks when you admit that you don't plan to have a proper pump.

[@alanwelson7705]

Jack, I realized there are a couple of full drop stitch kayaks in the market now. Would you consider doing a comparison review on them? Thanks!

[@inneradventures]

Really?! What are they?

[@alanwelson7705]

@@inneradventures Jack, I saw the ad for Bluewave today and did a search online, to my surprise, RazorLite is not the only one in the market. I thought they claimed they were patented.

[@inneradventures]

Bluewave appears to be a UK product. Not found in the States. The only two fully dropstitch kayaks in the US are RL and Airvolution. If you find more please let me know.

[@emmber19]

@@inneradventures aquamarine tomahawk, various offerings from KXone, bluewave

[@pamdickey7219]

Hello. Do you have information on the generic drop stitch? How to purchase? Thank you for all your videos

[@inneradventures]

I am investigating it myself. don't have complete data yet. Will post a video once I know

[@aarrodri]

@@inneradventures same here.. can't find any that looks like it. Where do you get it or was it borrowed?

[@Obliticus]

Thanks for doing this and uploading to YT! This really helps with putting things into perspective. But I am surprised.... $800 for a SUP?

[@inneradventures]

SUP prices range hugely. You can find them under 200, but they are rubbish. Good ones are more expensive.

[@Oregoonie]

stumbled on this video looking for a kayak and we happen to live in same place haha

[@3falexchina]

Very interesting video!!! And very useful.

[@MC19PO]

Jack - for 2 people traversing inland lakes and rivers, do you prefer the 473rl or the convertible Elite. I know the Elite is only drop stitched on bottom.

[@inneradventures]

i haven't paddled the Elite, so I don't know

[@olderthandadirt]

It would have been nice to see the paddle boards timed when using the kayak paddle.

[@inneradventures]

That sure is a good thought

[@Imightberiding]

Hi there. I was hoping you could tell me the name/company of the RazorLite knock-off & where to search for it & perhaps purchase. I have been considering the Sea Eagle rl but the cost is somewhat prohibitive for me. This way I might be able to afford a Sea Eagle FastTrac or Explorer & the knock-off version of the Sea Eagle RazorLite. Thanks very much.

[@inneradventures]

I am working on releasing a video talking about it.

[@sharonpage7476]

Loved the video! Where did you order the generic drop-stitched kayak? I was on the verge of getting the Sea Eagle to use on about 10 hrs of club paddles a year where I don't want to use my CF racing boat. But would love to get one even cheaper than the Sea Eagle. Thanks!

[@inneradventures]

Good question. check out Alibaba. But even better I am working on creating an alternative kayak before spring.

[@sharonpage7476]

@@inneradventures that's great! You know inflatable kayaks like nobody else. I've watched all your review and comparison videos and plan to get one next year. I did find one "brand" available in the U.S. that is drop-stitched, likely purchased in bulk from Alibaba and rebranded, but not sure if it's as good/fast as the version you showed in the video, which matched Sea Eagle for speed. Okay, I'll stay tuned... :-)

[@faithshort5715]

@@inneradventuresAny update on this project?

[@TomG1555]

Thanks for doing this! Sure its subjective, but hey, any kayak comparison will be. I admit feeling a little defensive about hearing the Challenger K1 called a "piece of crap," since I own one...but, when I got in a Pungo hardshell for a lesson, I felt like I was on top of a rocketship by comparison in terms of the speed and how it cut through the water (compared to the K1). I still feel its an awesome "gateway" kayak for someone just getting into the sport and not wanting to spend hundreds of dollars, its performance is really good for its pricepoint, but I think most people will be looking to upgrade from it once they know whether kayaking is for them or not.

[@inneradventures]

I believe besides calling it "piece of crap" I also called it "magnificent". I still think that those two descriptors sum it up pretty well. And indeed it's the perfect gateway dru... Kayak!

[@nickbagley2202]

The stern on the Intex K1 seems to " sniff ' the water rather than being' nose in the air' to ride waves

[@gloppy101]

It's not a piece of crap, but it's disposable! ..lol.

[@TomG1555]

@@rangerkayla8824 Thanks for sharing your experiences. I had a buddy who owns a SE370, we went out together last year...and it seemed like my K1 was significantly more maneuverable and faster than his Sea Eagle. Now, the 370 is a tandem, while the K1 is a one-seater, so that shouldn't have been too surprising, but he also paid more for it. The overall summary that they're both perfectly fine entry-level kayaks for the price isn't changed, just that even near the budget floor for kayaks there can be performance differences. For this year (2022) I upgraded to an AirKayaks AE1044DS-XL w/dropstitch floor for ~$700, and similar to your experience with the Star Paragon, the performance improvement was extremely noticeable - I was even able to keep up with a friend who has a Old Town hardshell, which would have been unthinkable in my K1. My intro classes were in Pungos, and I think they're fine hardshells that cut through the water really well. Overall, we're really fortunate to be in a time where interest in paddling is expanding and there's a lot of good options to choose from right now.

[@---sf5cf]

Which of these two kayaks will combine high stability and speed, safety and comfort of paddling: Aqua Tec - Ottawa pro Double or Advanced Elements - AirVolution 2. ???

[@devonsuggs2256]

I’m loving your videos and I’m finding them very helpful as I’m in the market looking for a great white water Kayak that can handle class 1-3 rapids with an occasional class 4 rapid. What specific top 3 kayaks would you recommend in the 700-1100 dollar range for what I’m looking for?

[@inneradventures]

Aire and NRS make great kayaks for white water. I am not a specialist in white water.

[@lowhanlindsey]

Where can I buy the generic??

[@inneradventures]

currently looks like nowere.

[@himabimdimwim]

You seemed quite fond of the AG Chelan 155. I'm currently looking to purchase that kayak, do you have any big complaints or highlights for this product vs something like the SE razorlite?

[@inneradventures]

I do love that kayak, true. I mentioned the skeg that is annoying. hopefully newer ones have simpler skeg.

[@gloppy101]

Look at the Saturn Ocean Pro 420 at 14' with a raised drop stitch floor and twin (removable) skegs. Big and fast too since less floor drag. Much better price vs the AG.

[@MathieuMorasse]

I have a 3 year old daughter. I'm 43 years old and I've been canoe-camping and wild camping since I was one year old. Me and my girlfriend are looking for a solution to leave together with the limitation of our transport. I can only carry one kayak on the roof of my car. I was thinking of buying a double kayak and an inflatable kayak. Do you have any suggestions to help me find the best angle for what I'm looking for.

[@inneradventures]

Sounds like too many variables to advise. And you seem to have a good amount of experience yourself, trust it

[@joseefortin8949]

Between the aquaglide chelan 140 and the star paragon tandem which one will you choose ?

[@inneradventures]

both are great. Star is a "wet butt" kind of kayak though :-)

[@2pranjalgururani]

Thanks for another great video Jack. From your experience, can u comment how fast do u think Aquaglide Deschutes 145 would be? I am interested to know as I have it

[@inneradventures]

I'd expect it to be a bit slower than the other two kayaks from this manufacturer that I tested. Since it's wider.

[@2pranjalgururani]

@@inneradventures thank you. I never measure my speed but I have found it to be a slow kayak

[@justinzak5025]

Hi Jack, curious to know how to submit kayaks for review. Thanks -- Justin

[@inneradventures]

Hi, Justin, which kayak do you want me to review?

[@inneradventures]

Contact me through Meetup - our groups address is in every video.

[@MukendiMedia]

Hi 😊 Great videos! I have planed to buy a inflateable kayak, and I thought I knew what to get, until I saw your videos 😊👍 Now I would like your oppinion… Data: Use; 1 adult/2 adults/1 adult + 1 child/(2 adults + 1 child) Adults; 203cm tall and 120kg + 170cm and 65kg Ideas: *Advanced Elements Conv. Elite 2-3p *Sea Eagle Razorlite 2p *Itiwit X500 2p Which would you recomend and am I missing some? I have done normal sea kayaks before, and we are looking for something to use together, easy to bring, store and pack, so the drying part is also important for me! Best regards Michael (Denmark)

[@inneradventures]

since you are in Europe, Itwit sounds like the way to go, but of course I have never seen it in real life. i am just assuming it's about the same as Razorlite, but cheaper there.

[@djkubuss]

Hi Jack Great Channel!! What do you think about aquaglide chinook 120 ?? Is any good ??

[@inneradventures]

I havent paddled it myself, but it is a decen Cat2 kayak

[@gilleslemay3690]

Hi Jack i just bought 2 kayaks from Intex. Do you have a recommendation for a very good manual pumps ? Thanks Gilles

[@inneradventures]

intex actually makes decent inexpensive pumps

[@anneandjohnfirlings3291]

Jack, Just bought my wife a k1 and think with her smaller stature 5'4" it will work great. My question for you, I am 6'1", 200lbs, would the K2 work well for me as a single paddler ?.....I think I need the larger boat, but am questioning having all the weight in the back of the kayak....Thanks, John

[@inneradventures]

You and I are same height. You'd be ok, but it will sag. Challenger K1 might work ok-ish for you too, in fact a bit better than K2

[@anneandjohnfirlings3291]

Copy that...my other options are the other intex biggies, explorer or excursion...any thoughts on either of those? Ps..I also like the sevylor k5 quikpak...thanks again...awesome videos...John

[@inneradventures]

Excursion Pro would certinly be most appropriate of the Intex. Don't know much about Sevylor.

[@Oookkaa]

Where did you buy the generic drop stitch kayak? Alibaba?

[@inneradventures]

something like that

[@danglover9426]

Hi Jack. Can you tell me where you found the Chinese fully drop stitch kayak?

[@inneradventures]

in China.

[@danglover9426]

@@inneradventures very helpful 👍. I'm assuming you found the American kayaks in America too?

[@inneradventures]

Generally. I am preparing a video where I want to talk about that whole dynamics in greater detail

[@randscott4676]

Where do you get the Generic Fully Dropstitich Kayak no brand???

[@inneradventures]

On Chinese marketplaces

[@misterkwai]

The Chinese knockoff of Razorlite sounds like a good deal. Where can one buy it?

[@inneradventures]

It is to be found In China

[@sahnie82]

Try Aliexpress

[@kevincui1631]

Kayaking is really not popular in China so I don’t believe it’s a knockoff. Most likely it comes out of the same manufacturing factory. I saw such factory on the Chinese version of eBay. They sold it as used kayak but it’s actually brand new. The price difference is astonishing: the same kayak when exporting to Europe at 1000 euro but the price out of the factory is 1000 yuan which is under 200 euro.

[@asmodiusjones9563]

@@kevincui1631 yeah the definition of knockoff, counterfeit, or pirated has changed a lot. It used to mean an unaffiliated factory making a product that is supposed to trick consumers into thinking it is the legitimate product, and was usually lower quality. However, now with most manufacturing being done in China, it usually means an unbranded version of the same product made by the same factory, with the same quality. They just didn’t have the license to brand the product with the name brand.

[@ghgghjfdhhfg3544]

Is there anyone who had good experiences with ordering one of these from china? Really would like to buy one but don't want to get scammed

[@mariaantoniw1748]

Great video. Was that a chelan 155 or a 140 that you tested in the video? We are choosing between the SE fastrack 465 and the aquaglide chelan 155 for recreational paddling mostly on lakes and slow moving rivers. We are 2 adults 6 ft and 5ft5in, 210 and 220 pounds. Any thoughts?

[@inneradventures]

i think it's the smaller one. It's from a few years ago, so might be even a bit different. For your weight you might want bigger chambers and longer kayak. chelan would probably be better, I believe it has higher capacity.

[@mariaantoniw1748]

@@inneradventures Thank you. BTW: We think the latest model still has the same skeg attachment. 😞

[@inneradventures]

does it require a screwdriver?

[@mariaantoniw1748]

@@inneradventures no, it's a thumb screw.

[@quack100]

@@mariaantoniw1748 We have the Chelan 155 for two adults & would recommend it - although our only other comparisons are hardshells and a (coincidentally?) under-inflated AE. The 155 length vs 140 gives you a little extra wiggle room for storage space and for keeping your paddles away from each other. That skeg is great but omg I swear one day I'm going to drop the little metal mounting piece on a dock and lose it into the water - I'm surprised this was their best option for mounting.

[@PeterKolta]

Off-topic: have you ever considered rowing across the Atlantic or the Pacific? Check out the TWAC race, it's crazy. I'd love to take on that challenge. Take care, Jeff! See you in Hungary one day, hopefully.

[@inneradventures]

Funny you ask... I've definitely been quite aware of people doing it. And it's definitely 3 notches above my crazy. I'd love to sail across an ocean though.

[@stevec6397]

Have you ever reviewed Itiwit kayaks? I've seen the Itiwit decathalon for sale on a few sites

[@inneradventures]

people have been asking about it more than any other kayak. I still haven't seen it in real life.

[@stevec6397]

@@inneradventures They appear to be built solid, but I was hoping to get your opinion before buying one. Thanks for the reviews, keep them coming!

[@6yjjk]

@@inneradventures I've got an Itiwit X500, haven't got it wet yet though. (Just bought it, Finnish winter, paddling is... difficult.) Feels pretty damn solid, but I'm upgrading from a Challenger K2, so pretty much anything would. If you happen to come this way and want to try it, let me know.

[@midniteprayer]

The generic drop stitch. Where can you get that?

[@inneradventures]

I am investigating it myself so far. don't have complete data yet. Will post a video once I know

[@tigershuffle1]

Would be nice to see you test a 2021 Tucktec. Seems a bit unfair testing a 2nd hand one without the skeg/rudder attached

[@inneradventures]

Tuckteck did have a rudder. Not sure why you would assume otherwise. Are you saying they redesigned it recently?

[@tigershuffle1]

Can't see a rudder in the vid. Here's a link kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXm8oIuubdt6nc0. Those Chines Dropstitch K1s available in Europe now for £400 ($500) K2 nearer £700 ($850). Nice video 👍

[@youtubechangedmynamelikeacunt]

@@inneradventures I have their late 2021 version, only differences I believe are the different seat, and there is a bar behind the seat now for stability, for £290 im V happy with it

[@youtubechangedmynamelikeacunt]

+the folding latches/locks are different and there is no large skeg at the back, 2021 version at least in my experience looks to handle very differently to that one. plus having the seats upper strap latched to the sides bends the bottom and is reducing stability, seat is supposed to be attached to the floor of the kayak in front of the seat

[@Mike-ku7gv]

I have both a 2021 and the older model shown in the video. The newer model is definitely faster, but probably doesn't track quite as well.

[@averageguy1261]

Where can I buy the Generic No Name Dropstitch one?

[@inneradventures]

in China

[@elduderino7767]

i wonder how much faster those cheap inflatables would be if you coated the bottom of them with a hydrophobic finish to reduce drag, that an longer fins to improve tracking

[@jodelfernandez]

Can you also make a video on kayak paddle buying guide? :)

[@inneradventures]

I did. it was a part of one of my other videos

[@joelelias2556]

I don’t see the relevance of the paddleboard test. Would have been interesting if he put a seat on it and used a double bladed paddle as they are typically “convertible”.

[@coolcaasports]

Great video

[@MrDcoffey]

Where does one find a generic drop-stitch kayak?

[@inneradventures]

On chinese sites

[@shootermcgarrett]

what about using a kayak paddle on a paddle board? would that be faster or slower

[@inneradventures]

it'd be too short and uncomfortable. unless you sit down. in which case you'd want a back support. you'd wish you had a kayak :-)

[@shootermcgarrett]

yeah I have a paddle race coming up. and I have the intex k1 kayak and a body glove sup. i don't know which one will be faster

[@gloppy101]

@@shootermcgarrett I can tell you the Body Glove Performer 11' (have 2) with a stadium seat (got mine at WalMart for $20.) is faster than all my kayaks (except for my sea kayak) and it's much easier to paddle for distance. I use a twin blade kayak paddle. The seat makes the paddleboard very comfortable. Put the front of the seat about 2-3" in back of the handle and use the side D-rings to secure with a small strap. I run a split pool noodle (use zipties) on each side of the seat frame to help protect the seat and it also holds the seat in place. Give it a try and you will be impressed.