I Didn’t Expect to Like This INSANELY Lightweight Kayak…. Aquaglide Cirrus 110 Review

Dan reviews the new Aquaglide Cirrus 110
Find more details on the Cirrus here: www.aquaglide....
Capacity: 1-person | 300 lb. (136 kg) max weight.
Warranty: 2-year limited against any manufacturing defects.
Dimensions: 11’ (338 cm) L x 35” (82.6 cm) W x 10” (25 cm) H x 9.5″ tube diameter.
Hull Weight: 14.75 lbs / 6.7 kgs
Includes: kayak, seat, footrest, fin, storage bag.
Not Included: pump, paddle, and PFD (Personal Flotation Device).
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[@AquaglidePlatinum]

Hey Dan - thanks for the review! We’re glad the Cirrus pleasantly surprised you, despite your preconceived notions ;) Our goal with the Cirrus UL series was to build a kayak that performed like our top-of-the-line Chelan at a fraction of the weight, and we are proud to have succeeded. While the Cirrus certainly isn’t for everyone, it is perfect for a technically oriented paddler who wants an ultralight, premium kayak. This could be those who want to hike into otherwise inaccessible lakes with a high performance kayak, those who live in small spaces (vans, RVs, sailboats, apartments) or commute in cities, or small paddlers who the Chelan or Deschutes is still too heavy for. It is a bit misleading to say the Cirrus is losing half the durability to trade off half the weight. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is extremely rugged, and is much more resistant to scratches, tears and punctures than PVC, which is what allows us to use approximately 1/10th the material of our premier PVC kayaks. Cirrus Ultralight models have been constructed much like carbon fiber, with added thickness and reinforcement where necessary and less material where weight can be saved. The side tubes, for example, use a very light 2x laminated .13mm 70d skin, reinforced with additional framework to provide extra strength. The floor skin beneath the TPU dropstitch floor is where most folks are hardest on their boats, so that material is a burly 2x laminated .20mm 410d skin. With lots of testing, we’ve proven the Cirrus line to be similarly durable to our other boats - but, it should still be treated as you would any other extremely light weight, high performance sporting goods product such as ultralight skis or backpacks. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of hyper-specific language to help classify distinct kayaks within the paddling industry. So when we use the word touring, we are referring to a kayak that is designed to move over distance, especially when compared to recreational kayaks that are better suited to shorter days or floats. And while the 110 is a bit small for someone of your size to take on an overnight, the 150 would certainly have the capacity and performance for a multi-day trip. Perhaps it would be more fair to call the Cirrus a “touring packraft” - if someone’s expedition includes hiking long distances while hauling gear, a multi-sport backcountry exploration, or any other discipline that requires moving fast and light over long distances, the Cirrus would be a great option! Language is relative and ever evolving, but long story short is that the Cirrus is distinct from anything on the market right now. If anyone has questions on the Cirrus or on our other kayaks, drop us a line! We’re always happy to discuss.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I appreciate you guys taking the time to get such a detailed response. I’ll pins to the top so others can benefit from your explanation. Happy Paddlin

[@Yibambe.]

I really appreciate this review. I had to take a chance and buy the Cirrus 110 before there were reviews out on it, because a health concern requires I use the latest kayak I can carry. I was so grateful the chance I took worked out so well. This is a really good kayak. Of course, I would like it to be much less expensive. I struggled for months over whether or not to buy it for that reason. But I really do love this kayak and I am happy that it is getting the attention it deserves.

[@robsimer9296]

Thanks Dan for releasing this long anticipated review. The Cirrus will work perfect for our traveling/kayaking life style and your review showed nothing beyond expected parameters while addressing actual performance concerns . The durability will be tested over time and use, so we all have something left to learn. We own several Aquaglide kayaks and have not been disappointed in quality or customer service, making the price easier to justify.....i.e. you get what you pay for.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Agree 100%. Their customer service team is exceptional. I bought a Chelan 155 for my parents so that speaks to how much I enjoy their product.

[@DenKwonDo]

Great and honest review as always Dan:) I appreciate you testing and reviewing the AG inflatables, yet there is 1 more id love for you to review, and that is the Blackfoot 130, I feel like with the optional high seat, larger size, and fishing setup, that it would be a great one to test out for your viewers, as I own one and absolutely love it, as it it my favorite of my 5 kayaks, with second place going to the Kaku Zulu which is another kayak I'd absolutely love for you to review as I personally believe it is one of the best overall hardshell SOTs on the market, however the weight is the downside which is the reason I purchased the Blackfoot 130. Thanks and Happy paddling!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I would love to get my hands on one. I’ll be visiting with you Aquaglide folks this weekend in Bend Oregon, maybe I’ll ask to borrow one.

[@steveadams2859]

Dan, great review! Saw the comments Aquaglide. My biggest question was answered. The kayak has similar construction to Alpacka packrafts where the bottoms are a heavier fabric than the sides

[@juliamc7144]

I really appreciate your videos. Very educational, You seem to be answering all the questions that I have. And I enjoy that you are honest and not just trying to sell a life style. If I ever make it down to Redding I will check out your shop.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thank you very much. Just to be clear I don’t own a shop. I’m a sales rep that works with kayak stores and outfitters around the west to supply them with gear and honest real world reviews.

[@AdarshGupta-be8gf]

This is brilliant! I had just found out about the Cirrus and was wondering if it’s an evolution on the Chelan. Seems like the Chelan would be the sturdier one. I plan to paddle solo or tandem with my dog maybe the Chelan 155 would be sweet. Then there’s also the Kokopelli Platte Plus. There are no reviews on that yet. We met in Lodi at HeadWaters a few days ago. I love the Sandpiper 130. However, given the backpack portability of the inflatables, I’m now thinking of the AquaGlide opening up more opportunity for me to access kayaking around SF. Can take it on the BART and stow it inside my car on drives to Tahoe / Monterey and further.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I would definitely consider a Chelan 140 or a Cirrus if you wanted ultra portable. You’re the perfect candidate for a lightweight inflatable. I have not checked out in Kokopelli but I would like to.

[@AdarshGupta-be8gf]

@@HeadwatersKayak 👍🏽 Thanks Dan

[@NebFan06]

Thanks for reviewing this. My wife and I are looking for an inflatable for camping trips

[@DenKwonDo]

Are you looking for 2 solos or 1 tandem, also, do you fish?

[@NebFan06]

@@DenKwonDo - Looking for a tandem. Our regular kayaks are solo, so I thought this would be good.

[@DenKwonDo]

@@NebFan06 Check out Dan's review on the Chelan, as it is has 2 different options for tandem, the 140 and 155, they are both significantly cheaper than the Cirrus, and they are twice as durable as Dan mentioned. If you and your wife want something that is a bit wider and more stable, has an optional high seat position (Awesome for getting in and out of the yak, for standing, and standing and fishing) and or if you and your wife would be fishing out of it, I'd highly recommend the Blackfoot 160, however it is alot heavier than the Cirrus, and still a bit heavier than the Chelans, but at the same time you would have two of you moving it, so 50lbs really isn't that much at all for a 16'4" paddle craft. I have a Blackfoot 130, and i can't say enough good things about it:)

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I just sold my parents on a Chelan 155. That should tell you my thoughts on it.

[@CherylHDavis]

Thanks for the review! I already purchased, used and LOVE my Cirrus 110. I also have the Chelan 140, but the weight is an issue for me.

[@TheRiehlThing42]

As you say, just getting out on the water. This looks like a fun kayak to have. It was awesome meeting up with you here in Portland. My gf and I both loved those Feelfrees you had us try. We're both not ready financially, but I'm now leaning towards that Feelfree Lure for next Spring. Should be able to get a kayak around then. My gf really liked that Moken. Neither one of us are into fishing, I'm into photography though. Definitely narrowing down to the CK1 and the Lure now. I think that seat, stand up leash, and wheel in the keel might be what tips the scale over to the Lure. My gf wants to get back out on the water and take those classes at Alder Creek now. As do I.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

So cool! Love meeting people from my channel in real life. So happy to hear you’re taking classes.

[@steveadams2859]

Would love to see a review on Aquaglides Anlger 11ft paddle board with the frame seat option.

[@JulianOutdoors]

Amazing video as always! Very informative. I just bought and reviewed a GoPlus inflatable tandem kayak myself. I had a hard shell Pelican Angler before and was skeptical of the inflatable type but they are amazing. Can you review the GoPlus tandem inflatable as well, if you have a chance and see what you think? Not many reviews out there for it. Thanks and keep up the good work! 👏🏻😊

[@johnshannon]

Notice that AG never talks about how the boat is constructed, esp the seams. If any glue is used, most say the lifespan of the inflatable is 5-8 years tops.

[@kelsmarie48]

Absolutely love your kayak reviews!!🛶 Would love to see one on the Aquaglide Navarro 130 as well please!😁 Highly considering purchasing!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I’ll be at a demo event this weekend with Aquaglide, maybe I can jump in one.

[@djh7691]

Loved the review. With this being half price now I am strongly considering it. I am also considering the BOTE Zeppelin Aero 10. Both within $100 of each other. I need very light weight as I will need to be carrying it. Do you have a preference between these two? I am 63 so the seat and the weight are a priority. Just trying to get a good kayak as well. Thanks so much!

[@dirtbikeadv]

Great no bullshit review thanks :)

[@happyrocker02]

I disagree with 10 to 12 foot sit on tops as far as being blown around. I own Avalon 120 and a 10 foot pelican and the pelican does have some sway but that avalon 120 is a freaking Haus. Fast as lightning, doesn’t matter the wind, and I can load that sucker up! It has 3 holes with waterproof lids where I can pack the hull full of gear. I wish they would remake that kayak design with a bleacher seat.

[@wishiknew1974]

The Kayaks were shipped and arrived in new condition.

[@StefanskiTheLoser]

1300 bucks seems outrageous for that kayak.

[@patkistler990]

Half that seems like a fair price

[@HappyPaddlin]

@@patkistler990 and FireStefanski. In defense of them (no affiliation btw), TPU is pricey stuff. It's the same stuff collapsible water bottles or water bladders for your camel back are made of and they don't have toxic PVC. So...there is a premium right now for TPU because the manufacturers of this material don't have the volume yet in their factories. PVC boards/boats will be under pressure environmentally long term. I could see a time where you won't be able to even get them (rafts, etc are going to have to innovate). Happening with Teflon cookware right now. Better for the environment for sure but the transition will be harder on the pocketbook. But you do get lighter by a lot!

[@AquaglidePlatinum]

@@HappyPaddlin good insight! Innovation unfortunately can be pricey. Our hope is that as TPU expands in use and becomes more readily available, we will be able to utilize its technology in other places.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

@happypaddlin thanks for the insight. I know you’ve been a big fan of TPU products. Your comment helps me to understand more about it.

[@joeskill4663]

@@AquaglidePlatinum sounds like the TPU is not as durable tho? If you make something similar in a white water kayak slash recreation kayak that might be cool. I have Aquaglides first white water sit ontop. And the McKenzie 105. My first kayak lasting past 10 years so very well built. If you can keep the durability with lite weight then that would be cool..oh the other thing I didn’t like about the Cirrus was the fin box.. rather have the US fin box so you can have the option of switching out fins..👍🏽

[@joeskill4663]

Like the honest assessment..👍🏽

[@cuttlefishpie3731]

I bet a small custom built fin placed at the front will reduce the nose wandering….just make it so it can be lifted up easy in case you need more manouverability.

[@casper2yall]

I really want this kayak lol

[@user-dj1td7wu1o]

One person's Tour or Expedition is another's Recreational session.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Fair enough. In that case I drive a “Sports Car” because my truck hauls kayaks. 😂

[@heathen_7]

Not for me, but enjoyed the review!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Right on thanks for watching.

[@owenjones7620]

Really set my sights on an aquaglide chelan , that was until the price tag was announced 😮 sales must be terribly slow, sorry to say but the way the market is going prices will need to change

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Agreed 100%

[@Dakiraun]

Argh... calling that a touring kayak on their part is downright irresponsible. Nonetheless, it's really neat for what it is.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

My thoughts exactly. It’s very cool for what it is. I’ll probably keep this one on my sailboat ⛵️

[@AquaglidePlatinum]

Hey Aaron - thanks for sharing your perspective! Here is what we commented above: Unfortunately, there is a dearth of hyper-specific language to help classify distinct kayaks within the paddling industry. So when we use the word touring, we are referring to a kayak that is designed to move over distance, especially when compared to recreational kayaks that are better suited to shorter days or floats. And while the 110 is a bit small for someone of Dan's size to take on an overnight, the 150 would certainly have the capacity and performance for a multi-day trip. Perhaps it would be more fair to call the Cirrus a “touring packraft” - if someone’s expedition includes hiking long distances while hauling gear, a multi-sport backcountry exploration, or any other discipline that requires moving fast and light over long distances, the Cirrus would be a great option! Language is relative and ever evolving, but long story short is that the Cirrus is distinct from anything on the market right now.

[@Dakiraun]

@@HeadwatersKayak Yeah, that's sorta the use I was thinking - like a spare kayak that's easy and compact to keep around in case the urge arises. Or maybe to have an extra boat on a trip. I can fit two on my car, and one of my kayaks is a tandem, but if a 4th person wants to go, that might be a cool way to accommodate it.

[@prophecy66]

@@AquaglidePlatinum I would have to agree that calling something that is 11' long and 35" wide, a basically flat bottom with no V shape to it, no covered deck, thigh braces etc, a touring kayak is pretty dishonest. That's solidly within rec kayak specs. The weight sure, it's really light weight and would be good for carrying. But you're not going to be going long distances quickly with a hull that wide, compared to a true touring kayak that is a foot narrower and several feet longer, built to carve through the water and provide you with a lot of control and connection to the boat. Something like the Advanced Elements Airfusion Evo or a Decathlon x500 would be closer to a touring kayak since they are narrower kayaks. You can argue the 15ft being better cause it's longer but it's still 34.5" wide. Also considering the waterline is shorter than 11' or 15' you'll have less speed. I'd argue without thigh braces, bulkheads and hatches alongside a long narrow hull, it's not a touring kayak. Obviously those are not really feasible with an inflatable, but that's the trade off. Realistically I'm not sure an inflatable can truly be a touring kayak like a hard shell fits the definition. In Aquaglide's defense, they're not the only inflatable company calling models touring kayaks. The lightweight design and portability are great features however.

[@LJ-jq8og]

@@prophecy66 Fair helpful points 👍

[@simply_the_dev7588]

I own the blackfoot angler 130 and it doesn't do well against a strong wind. But it is good when there isn't a strong wind. The only issue is that I have lost the pin that connects the fin to the kayak. Why can't it just be snapped in instead of finding the small screw pin? I've used it several times in Pflugerville Lake north of Austin. Love the seat too. Just need to call Aqua Glide and ask for another pin lol. Btw I have hit several rocks with it and nothing happened.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

AQuaglide would send you a new one for sure

[@DenKwonDo]

I've had the opposite experience with the Blackfoot, and I actually think it does fantastic in the wind for a inflatable, especially when going directly into the wind, last week I was even standing up paddling it for about 700 yards directly into 15-20 mph winds and I had no problems, however, I could see a problem if you were going crosswinds, but even then it's just a matter of paddling more onto one side. AG sells a Pressfit fin to eliminate the lil T screw, however, it does NOT work well in colder weather, as it is VERY hard to take off when it's cold. Oh, my son and daughter were in the Blackfoot, and I was in our Sea Eagle SE 370, and I got blown around wayyy more and wayyy faster than they did, so I'm also comparing my Blackfoot experience against the Sea Eagle.

[@simply_the_dev7588]

@@DenKwonDo Well i couldn't get back to where I started out. I did go into the wind but my front kept slapping the water. So I had to hug the coast to get back to the same shore line at Pflugerville park. The wind kept me from going forward at all. I even lost my whataburger sandwich. Maybe the wind here was greater, I didn't have a tool to measure the wind speed. My paddle came from Academy and I know how to paddle straight. Will miss you sandwich..

[@challyho2u244]

I’m sold now after saying it’s 50% less durable than a chelan which I have and I hit a rock and it put a tear in like something out of the titanic film I’ll keep my chelan 155 and I’m probably going to get a hard kayak collapsible one

[@GreatGreenRiver]

Hi! Do you know how the meterial compares to the Aquaglide Deschutes series ? The Deschutes doesn’t have a dropstitch floor but you can cut styrofoam to fit in it even though it has a Thwart. (I do have a Dechutes 110 and it has been very good for the last 4 summers and It should be fine this year too.)

[@HeadwatersKayak]

After a couple seasons I can say this did not hold up like the Chelan I have. I would not recommend it.

[@burtgordon4796]

Is there a lightweight inflatable you would recommend for fishing? I’m 220 lbs. If not best lightweight non inflatable for fishing? Love the channel.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I really enjoyed the AQuaglide Blackfoot Angler. It’s not super heavy.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

The NRS Pike is another option

[@gluki32]

Which one is better Cirrus 110 or Itiwit X500?

[@publiuszero79]

Having a tough time deciding upon an Aquaglide Blackfoot 130 and Sea Eagle Fasttrack 385fta. I would be mainly ocean fishing. Which do you recommend?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I’ve never used a Sea Eagle.

[@mickhill7067]

Hi Dan - I've got the chelan 120 , you've reviewed both , which do you prefer, ie, easy of paddling and speed .

[@HeadwatersKayak]

The Chelan was nicer on the water. The Cirrus really shines when dealing with it off the water. So compact and light weight.

[@mickhill7067]

@@HeadwatersKayak Cheers for that Dan, thanks for getting back so quickly, I was thinking of getting the Cirrus (£1600 here in UK) so saved me a lot of money, but will stick with the Chelan , have a great day! 👍

[@challyho2u244]

Lightweight means weaker right so if you bump a rock that’s going to tear

[@2musiclover534]

How many psi for the main hull?

[@HarryLewinASR]

What are the size limits on this kayak? At 6'4" and 260 lbs I am too big for my Chelan 120. Is there ant reason for me to look at the Cirrus110?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Yes you’re too big. You may be able to make it work but I felt small in it. I own both the Chelan 120 in the shell and 140 and I much prefer my 140. I’m 6’2” 220

[@HarryLewinASR]

@@HeadwatersKayak thank you

[@lordenoch0]

Se dice "Che-lan"; no "Chilean", compadre!

[@atillamaster09]

Ouch, $1300 for an inflatable…..

[@kirkwilliams2127]

Way to light for ocean

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Yes

[@ordinaryguy6869]

Looks like a disposable kayak. Use it a couple times, but then you get a hole in it.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I plan on using it all summer so I will definitely give a long-term review after season of hard use. For this kind of money it needs to last.

[@hollyscott4614]

Disposable? Hardly. When I think of cheap PVC kayaks (i.e. pool toy material) it isn't TPU. Get your hands on it and feel it, certainly not cheap nor does it look cheap.

[@AquaglidePlatinum]

Looks are deceiving! We will refer to our comment above: TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is extremely rugged, and is much more resistant to scratches, tears and punctures than PVC, which is what allows us to use approximately 1/10th the material of our premier PVC kayaks. Cirrus Ultralight models have been constructed much like carbon fiber, with added thickness and reinforcement where necessary and less material where weight can be saved. The side tubes, for example, use a very light 2x laminated .13mm 70d skin, reinforced with additional framework to provide extra strength. The floor skin beneath the TPU dropstitch floor is where most folks are hardest on their boats, so that material is a burly 2x laminated .20mm 410d skin. With lots of testing, we’ve proven the Cirrus line to be similarly durable to our other boats - but, it should still be treated as you would any other extremely light weight, high performance sporting goods product such as ultralight skis or backpacks.

[@ordinaryguy6869]

@@hollyscott4614 I guess if weight was your most important criteria, it would be desireable.

[@Wings_of_foam]

Nice.