Intex K2 Challenger Kayak | Review after long term ownership | Are Inflatable Kayaks Any Good?

[@dinh71]

I've had mine for about 3 years, and its been in storage for the past 2 years. I just took it out last weekend for a day on the lake, it performed flawlessly, and I had a blast! Last time it was on the water, I had it on a small river that was running very low. The K2 was constantly scraping against rocks and boulders and bottoming out, but came out of the trek unscathed. My itch for kayaking and fishing has returned this year, so I plan to get plenty of use out of the K2 this summer and fall. Cheers from the USA!

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

They're great aren't they. I taken risks with mine that I've thought might end its life but it has come through unscathed. but one day I'm sure I won't be so lucky : ) Happy paddling!

[@olekaarvaag9405]

I know two years have passed since you commented. Have you used during these last two years as well? Anything more worth sharing? I figure 3 years itself is an incredible bargain. If it has lasted you 5 years, it's just ridiculous.

[@dinh71]

@@olekaarvaag9405 I've had this kayak for more than 5 years, but in that span of time I've only used it less than 20 times. So, can't truly comment on the longevity of the product. I do feel that I got my money's worth though.

[@safron2442]

Thank you for this review! Great long term update. I recently got one over here in the states and was worried about it performing well(even on completely calm water). I'll test it out soon and hopefully mine will last as long as yours has. Opens up a lot more adventures for me.

[@TeamGamingBro]

“I’d say just do it” gonna buy now

[@randyw41]

Mines coming today. I've watched several of your videos, and I'm so stoked to get out on my local reservoir. Thanks for posting these vids...

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Awesome, I wish you happy paddling 👍

[@homeofeuphoriaaroma]

I am some few years behind, but I have just bought myself the Intext K2 Kayak - 2-Seater and I cannot wait to take it out in our Australian waters this coming Spring/Summer (20/08/2024). Thank you for sharing your review, it gave vital information and on how to set it up. I am looking forward to a lot of paddling for peace and tranquility, and for my mental health.

[@robertd9850]

I took mine out yesterday for the first time. I bought the K1 because I don't take it on long trips, just wanted something for nearby water when I go camping. I paid less than the cost of 3 or 4 kayak rentals so very much worth it. Nice little boat for casual kayaking.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

my sentiments exactly. use it 5-6 times and it starts paying for itself.

[@E92jamesy]

I've just bought mine, used it for thr first time and impressed.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

@E92jamesy great. Look after it, and you'll have loads of fun!

[@sampowellmusic]

Good no nonsense video. I just bought the K1 and it didn’t occur to me to get the K2 and just not use both seats.

[@lanepollock13]

Im your biggest fan, I absolutely love your videos! So helpful and positive, I love you

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Thanks Lane 😁👍

[@billyaitken1713]

For everyone without backyard/garden/garage/shed storage space for a kayak an inflatable is the common-sense option. I love your honesty in your review Dan, you get a lot of great experiences on the water for minimal outlay. Simon Bloke In The Woods loves his traditional canoes, I love my plastic kayaks but hard-shell boats are heavy, you need roof racks to take them anywhere and there's the price.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I’d have a hard shell if I could, but storage and cost are a factor. This one suits me. 😁

[@billyaitken1713]

Significant bang for not a lot of buck😎👍

[@rich00cap]

I bought this recently and took it out on the Thames Estuary. It handled perfectly and was stable even with waves from passing ships. Just one question though, any tips for getting it all back in the bag afterwards?? The ballast bag and seats never seem to deflate.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

It is a job getting it back in the original bag. And in the end my bag ripped. I ended up with a large box. A mate of mine bought a large plastic storage box for his which works well. The seats and ballast bag are traditional valves, you have to pinch them to get the air out. I tend to get what I can out of the boat and Chuck it in the car. Then take more time over it at home personally.

[@WirralWill]

Thank you for the vid, much appreciated. Been looking at this kayak for a new way to get out and about around the coast this year. I'm gonna pull the trigger on Amazon before the weekend I reckon! Thanks once again, Will

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Happy paddling bud 👍

[@FinleyAlice]

Just in case anyone is watching, I bought the K1 a few days ago for around £90, the K2 is up for around £120 at the moment :)

[@MrMann703]

Thank you for the video, I got the excursion pro k2 and was looking at this one possibly for my son. Good to know it's lasted

[@sreejithKR-h8p]

can you show us how to setup camera in intex challenger K2

[@ardeet]

Genuinely valuable to do a “time travel” from your original review to here. Thanks again. 👍

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mickspain330]

Good video Dan, good to hear your recommendations about the kayak & how good it is, cheers mate

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No problem 👍 Thanks Mick : )

[@mitchellis5380]

Thanks bro - I'm all in ! My young lad and I will be on the water this weekend because of your kindly shared reviews !

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Awesome, happy paddling to you both 👍

[@ArielleViking]

Such a great longterm review. Looks like these kayaks stand up to a good amount of use especially for what they cost. 👍

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Thanks 😊

[@TheRamstoss]

Depends what you get, I had 2 and threw out one because it kept getting leaks at the seams. The other one is still going strong.

[@mondodan167]

80 quid... that was before lockdown. going for near 300 now. still looking at picking up a second hand one.

[@harveyburton5525]

Take a look on Argos buddy

[@Richard-pe4cx]

if you do get a small leak decathlon do a repair kit that worked for our intex k2

[@ScoutManSteve]

Cheers for showing this Dan, I was looking at the decathlon ones, but I can't bring myself to pay £300 plus. I might just have look at this one as a starter kayak 👍

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Good choice!

[@rialobran]

I can see a place for these things, easy to load, carry and store. And the price means they are in most people's range. If you haven't seen it you should catch Justin Barbour's trip across country in Newfoundland with his inflatable. It changed my view of them.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I’ve not seen that video. I’m going to look it up now. Thanks mate 👍

[@74quo]

Hi,what size is the blue barrel you use? I have the same kayak and want one. Cheers

[@davidanthonybatten9150]

Where can we buy one 80 90 quid please?

[@NewZealandWild]

'Ere, you wasn't the voice of that fed up wee doggie during covid was ya ? You've got exactly the same accent. I'm in New Zeaand now, but lived in London. I'm getting the K1 any day now, and will get the K2 later.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

no not me that I know of! I found the K1 very small. my buddy has one.

[@beckym8245]

Nice swishy water sounds. Very calming.

[@whengrapespop5728]

Planning on buying one of these for a multi day (possibly 7-14 days) paddle along the southwestern coast of Norway. Might be risky, as I don’t have a lot of experience, but I grew up here and know the geography and terrain pretty well. If it gets too rough, I could just stop by a close town and use public transport to get home (Norway has pretty good options for public transportation). You’re allowed to set up camp anywhere you want in Norway, so if I need a break I’ll take a break. Ideally I would buy a better boat, but I’m a student and wouldn’t be able to afford it - sadly I might not even be able to afford this one either this summer.

[@geodude6244]

I wouldn't do that without vinyl cement patches and gorilla glue even then it's risky. I even bought a lightweight lifeboat for it if somehow each compartment gets slashed I have a Intex 200 folded in my bow as my final hope.

[@DaveAtlas]

just keep a patch kit on you, it's simple to plug even a large hole. You could go as far as adding a whole other skin to specific places with some pvc fabric. It's all chemically bonded, stronger than the fabric itself...

[@sandog1961]

Great video. Does the K2 work fine with just one person? Im 6'2" and the K1 seems too small.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Yes, I use my K2 on my own all the time. Sit at the back bag at the front. The K1 is tiny!

[@josephtorres8152]

Thanks! Was going to ask this!😂🤝

[@anthonyfrey702]

I bought it based off your vid. Will be here this week. One question: since only one passenger, do you have to counter weight the front since you're seated in the back?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No it’s fine. I’ve never felt the need. Happy paddling 👍

[@Jon_from_LI]

Quick question. I'm actually considering buying this kayak off of Amazon (the single seat version like yours). Do you have advice for setting up a camera like the one you're using in the video? I bought a water-resistant pouch for my cell phone and used it during a guided kayak tour, but it was just lousy for taking videos as it's around the neck all the time and it's hard to keep straight (not to mention the sound gets muffled in the pouch). I'm considering a cheap Go-Pro, but how do you fixate those cameras on front end of the boat to face you; without it tipping over?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I just use a tripod with bendy legs and bend them around my bag or whatever is at the front. sometimes I use a barrel for gear and I stand it on top.. note that I tie a piece of string to the tripod and the boat in case it falls in the water.

[@aevoguitars2576]

Are they better than itiwit or cheaper?

[@tomasurbanek]

Great video. Convinced me to look into these. The only thing is link you've attached for Amazon sale is currently for £309.99 not £75 ...

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I know, they’ve gone crazy lately! Best to wait and keep an eye on them. I would not pay £300 for one

[@SandraKurz]

Das Challenger K2 ist ein tolles Boot für den Preis und sehr empfehlenswert. Grüße aus Berlin.

[@patricktoulze1274]

Thank You! - Intex K2 for the summer.

[@thehuntersministry]

🎉just what I needed to know thank s

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

My pleasure 👍

[@branchsnapper2228]

Is this the k1, single seater?

[@geoffdyckes6442]

where did you buy for less than £100

[@xxcunninxx4882]

I bought also K2 but most of the time im going by myself, wheres best position to sit in k2?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

@@xxcunninxx4882 I find at the back best.

[@OliFPV]

What the blow up? At 0:10 your kayak looks weird?? Thanks 🍀🍀🤘

[@danielwoolcock7267]

I've just purchased one of these and I cannot get it back into it's bag with all the bits 😁

[@AshOutdoorsUK]

I’m in the market for something like this dan, want to go for a camp off the Norfolk broads and this looks perfect! Thanks mate. Hope all is well 👍🏼

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

They’re at the lowest price I’ve seen at the moment. It seems to fluctuate between £80-£120. They are what they are though, always a risk with inflatables. But I’m a big fan of mine in terms of value for money. I always looked at it in terms of the cost of hiring a kayak for a day. So every time I go out it gets more and more of a bargain. If you decide to take the plunge check the description 😘😝🙄 Stay sexy 👍

[@southbucksbushcraft6572]

I have been looking at the inflatable kayaks for a few weeks now for a trip in July, was looking at spending £2/300 but yeh your right may as well go for the hard shell. Great vid

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Nice one!

[@samanthatheriot8879]

Thank you so much, I've been tossing up between the K1 and K2 for solo use, you've helped me make the decision. Great review, cheers !

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Thank you, I’m glad you found it helpful. Happy paddling 😁

[@shameenaslam205]

Which one did you buy

[@samanthatheriot8879]

@@shameenaslam205 I planned to buy the larger one but when I went into the store they had them on display and I bought the smaller one. I'm only 5ft and want it for paddling on lake so fit comfortably in the smaller one and can fit quite a lot behind the seat and on the front. The K2 weighed too much for me to carry and was huge. Even in the K1 I can't reach the foot rest inside at the nose, so there's plenty of room for me.....

[@shameenaslam205]

@@samanthatheriot8879 how is the quality of the boat ' mine arrives on Tuesday

[@samanthatheriot8879]

@@shameenaslam205 for the price I'm impressed. It's not as flimsy as it looks. I've been down creeks that were a little shallow and I swear I thought I'd end up with a tear in the bottom but it managed to stay intact. My only complaint is the placement of the air holes. It's tough to get all the air out when you fold it so it's a bit of a pain getting it back in the bag but overall I'm very happy with it, great value. Hope you enjoy it 🙂

[@garysibley5628]

If you can get one for 120.00 I would like to know where to buy one. Cheapest I have found is 160.00 plus delivery.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Gary, the price went through the roof about 4 weeks ago. Hold on to your money for a bit. They’ll go down again

[@Con2105]

Great vid - what's it like for 2 people? I'm 6ft 1" and my partner 5ft 4"... Thinking it could be a bit tight even on shorter trips?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I’ve been out with my wife several times, it’s ok. But I’m only 5’8 .. might be a bit more of a squeeze for you.

[@vg4156]

Its no more for £75. Itd twice the price now 😞

[@robintufariello807]

I recently bought a K2 challenger. I thought the #2 place where you inflate it was inward but now it has popped outward. I tried to get in touch with INTEX but there are issues with their customer service due to Covid. Do you know if it is an issue if it is popped outward? Not sure if we did something wrong. Thanks for any help you can offer!

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

The same thing happened on mine within a couple of uses, but I've used it for 2 years since and its never let me down, and that part has been permanently out. I think its just one of those things, I don't believe it makes any difference to the boat.

[@robintufariello807]

@@CampLifeBushcraft Thanks for the reply! That makes me feel better. I am.about to go on vacation md didnt want it to start leaking. Hoping it should be ok on a bay.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Robin Tufariello no problem bud. I’ve had mine out in a bay. It did fine. Just be aware of the wind, makes a tough paddle if it’s against you 👍

[@ActualGiles]

£75?! Wow. The going rate the K2 Challenger SKYROCKETED during lockdown. I picked one up when they were around £130, but the current price range on Amazon UK (August 1, 2020) is £229.00 - £379.00 !!

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I know, it’s ridiculous at the moment!

[@per-ivarriise6048]

It looks like this kayak goes straight in your day on the water . I had a Sevelor kayak brand with no Skagg underneath . It went side to side . I didn’t like that and I sat all the way in the back . So , the kayak went up in the front . It was the first time out in a kayak in summer. I did enjoy myself though getting out in the bay. It was I think a 2 person kayak and it was heavy in its’ bag. I took it on vacation to the Caribbean and I would like to do this again , but go lighter. I used it once and sold it their on vacation . Does k2 go straight go straight . I guess it has a skagg underneath . How much does it weigh ? I enjoy getting out on the water , a little scary at first . But , it went well and I enjoyed myself. So , want to Get another one but lighter .

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

it goes mostly straight, the skeg really helps keep it on line. there is a video linked at the end that features all the specs and what you get in the bag etc. maybe check that one out.

[@per-ivarriise6048]

Thank you so much for your review . You made an excellent one . I want to get out on the water this spring . Have a good kayak tour . Per

[@christophercorbett6174]

I’ve been trying to buy one of these for a while now.....can’t seem to get it for the price you say though??? Ended up buying a £40 one from Aldi.....what can I say it’s not fantastic but it does the job! Definitely in the market for the k2 challenger though and would rather buy it through your affiliate link so I’ll keep checking back and snap one up ASAP!

[@anthonynorman1212]

After watching your video, ive done it. Thank you for the video.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No worries. I wish you happy paddles 👍

[@trainadventuresuk]

Great review. I looked at these. We needed a 3 man so went for the Itiwit 3 man inflatable. Had it a week now and already been out 6 times. I wanted a solid boat but went for an inflatable for better storage and the hassle of transporting solid kayaks around put me off. Where did you put your boat in at the Thames?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Near to Reading, Henley I think. They’re great fun aren’t they 😁👍

[@trainadventuresuk]

@@CampLifeBushcraft Blinding fun mate. Opened up another aspect to our lives. There is something about being on the water.

[@fdsaffff]

can you fish off of it? will get hole easy from hooks etc?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I have fished off it once, but I was nervous of a puncture.. I wouldn't advise it to be honest.

[@mickkelly3285]

Convinced me to buy one.I got mine £107 on amazon 18th April 21 - 2 days later £223!

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

£107. Looks like a bargain these days, nice work. Happy paddling 👍

[@BurtonOutdoors]

Cool man... also in the market for a kayak.. was looking at hard shells as I have the space in my garage and roof bars, but I would consider this inflatable... cracking price though.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

if you have the funds, storage and transport a hard shell is better in my opinion, but if you want cheap fun £75. is a steal. the price of these seems to go up and down, I've seen them up at £120. I don't know why?! its a great way to chill and see the countryside bobbing along : )

[@BurtonOutdoors]

@@CampLifeBushcraft DEFFO... I held back on buying a hard shell because of what's going on in the world and my work dried up a tad... still a little un certain on workload after September so I may be getting a blow up 😉

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

If you decide on a cheap one then ... ahem... link in the description 😝😝😝

[@BurtonOutdoors]

@@CampLifeBushcraft LOL... yes I saw that

[@woodcook-enjoynature]

Hi, thanks for this review, i also got a inflatable Kayak und will start to use it in this year i hope. Got a question to this blue barrel you got, which size is it? 40 Liters? Thanks and atb to you! Dirk

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I'm not sure to be honest, a friend got me mine second hand off eBay. at a guess I'd say 30-40 litres sounds about right. I got quite a lot of stuff inside it.

[@woodcook-enjoynature]

@@CampLifeBushcraft thanks a lot :-)

[@CaptainNicBlake]

What is the weight limit? (sorry if this is a dumb question)

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I'm sorry I can't remember, but I've had me and 3 days worth of camping gear including logs in mine on the sea with no issues.

[@danlilly8279]

Hello fella, I noticed that you have a drum/barrel out with you, is that necessary for weight distribution. Many thanks

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No it’s just a waterproof container, I keep electrical bits in it.

[@danlilly8279]

@@CampLifeBushcraft many thanks fella, I’ve just got the K1 & K2 for me and my Daughter (11) so we can’t wait to get out and use them. We live right on top of the Thames Estuary so we’ve got to wait for a calm day. I noticed you spend a bit of time on the canals do you need a license to use them?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Yes, it’s called a waterways license .. you pay yearly like a fishing license

[@lorenzobasile781]

Thanks for the review - really helping my decision making and I'm going to buy one when I can. Is it any good in seawater and/or have you had any issues with this kayak in the seawater? I plan to take it to rivers, lakes and the ocean for now, so I'd like to hear your thoughts. Great video by the way!

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I’ve taken my on the sea.. the salt water is no problem.. the only issue is the wind, they are lightweight and strong wind can make paddling difficult. Be careful of that. Otherwise, happy paddling! Btw there is a kayak playlist on my channel with a few different trips I’ve taken with this boat. You may find of interest.

[@lorenzobasile781]

@@CampLifeBushcraft I watched your other video, simply fantastic. In your experience do choppy waves get water in the kayak or is it high enough to prevent an excessive amount of water getting in? Thanks again

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No the waves were no problem, the sides are high enough. The only issue I found was the wind.

[@GazianoOutdoors]

Looks a cracking boat, especially for the price of them, nice and relaxing out on the river there, ATB 👍

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

It really is!

[@alexgray100]

This is now £200 on Amazon. Do you think it’s worth that? Or can you recommend one

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

they go up and down in price on a regular basis, keep checking back. although if you are going to use it regular and look after it £200 is still value for money.

[@kennuff2]

Amazons price seems to go up and down, mine was £94 so keep looking.

[@Fran-iv4fj]

I bought one...I will use it next week in London

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Enjoy 👍

[@handyoutdoors2938]

Tidy mate still going strong been looking for something like this for a while just to use now and then thanks for sharing atb Dafydd

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

No problem 👍 they're priced as low as I've ever seen them right now.

[@unchained20000000]

I hear you on the price range. If I'm going to spend a thousand pounds on a boat/canoe/kayak I'll just go out and purchase a sea doo jet ski.

[@unchained20000000]

Plus the little buggers pack nicely on a motorcycle.

[@thebentzenable]

Thanks a lot 🙏

[@Intotheoutdoors69]

Definitely seems like a great buy and I'm looking at kayaks but the sea is so rocky where I am so really cant risk getting a puncture 😁👍

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

It was touch and go when I had mine near the rocks on a coastal camp. Hard shell would be better for where you live 👍

[@Intotheoutdoors69]

@@CampLifeBushcraft cheers Dan😁👍

[@nidzeksmocni659]

I ordered this one.

[@Shadow_Wraith]

2 or 3 years (title says 2). Its nowhere near £75 now unfortunately. I just looked up the specs, 350lbs or 159kg is pretty low for 2 people plus gear. I alone weigh 101kg.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Read the video description for the year discrepancy. The prices go up and down wildly. At the time of recording they were the price stated. As to weight limit I can only go by what I’ve carried. I don’t make them. On the coastal trip linked at the end of the video you can see what I carried.

[@Nobby77]

Inflatables defo have a place, I've had a sevylor canyon for 6+ years and its been a cracking little paddle. Easy done 100 miles in her

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

My buddy has a Sevylor Adventure. its a double skin Bobbie and seems a lot tougher than mine. I really rate them. mine is a great messing about in thing, very stable and tougher than it looks. As you said, they have a place. just watched your second outing in your homemade one, looks a bit better now. still not convinced it will make the trip your planning for it.. but it will be a fun watch : )

[@Nobby77]

@@CampLifeBushcraft she'll make it Dan she was built by a sapper

[@jennykelly4111]

Nice video dude

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

Thanks!

[@SaivaTauriņa]

Pūt konstrucion foam in it and you will have a hardshell.❤

[@dorianleakey]

No seeing this for the same price you paid, things seem to have changed.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

The price goes up and down like crazy. The day I edited this it was £75 I saw one the other day at £200 it makes no sense! I paid £80 for mine, but anything under £100 I’d say is reasonable. I wouldn’t go over that, just wait it out.

[@dorianleakey]

@@CampLifeBushcraft you took a full 14 minutes to respond? I wont get that time back :( Seriously though, i was assuming in about 3 weeks time i would get a response and not know what it referred to. OK, I will try and be patient, i am assuming the price goes up with the good weather?

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

I’m on my account doing stuff so I saw the comment. Next time I’ll try to be quicker 😝 When I saw them cheaper it was warm weather. I’m not sure what their methods are. I just looked it up on amazon and I couldn’t see any. So maybe they are cheap when they have a new batch and they go up as they run out?! Your guess is as good as mine though. I hope you find one 👍

[@robintufariello807]

@@CampLifeBushcraft Kayaks around here doubled and more than doubled due to everyone looking for outdoor activities to do (COVID). I was lucky and got a new one from someone that didn't want it anymore.

[@seawinds12]

they are now 250 pound

[@ellaparkinson3726]

Still look good after three years my darrrlinggg, the Kayak not you 😂😂😂

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

😂😂😂😂 Love you too x

[@networkserpent5155]

This kayak is meant for calm water/recreational. Using it for rapids and expecting it to not wear is unfair.

[@aig5429]

Probably not worth 3 yrs. I'd invest in a real one put some money on it

[@sgt_slobber.7628]

Two things that sux about it, is that the seat is either way in the back or way in the front, and not for the middle (I’m a Heavier dude)!!!!:/ Also the Seats are inflatable, meaning that they’re sorta flimsy, I’m looking for Alternatives to get better back support so I can sit upright and not row on the flat of my back!!!!!🛶🛶🛶

[@peesua]

I'd buy one for around £100 but they are currently over £200 sadly.

[@CampLifeBushcraft]

they seem to go up and down in price from week to week.. keep an eye on them on Amazon, occasionally they are around the £80 mark. worth pulling the trigger if you see them at that price.