Kayak Review | Dagger Stratos Recreational Touring Kayak

[@michealcojocari4219]

I want to see gear pushed to its limit, so that we truly know what the boat is capable of. In this demonstration it was in the hands of an expert world class white water kayaker. There is no substitute for experience and knowledge.

[@brianmccormack6575]

I own a 3 year old 14.5 L Stratos and I bought it thinking that I could use it for white water. After a week, I gave up and bought a 8 foot WW dagger. I think you could use it on big rivers where you don't have to maneuver a lot, but its too big and turns too slow for the stuff I paddle here in the Northeast. However, it is awesome for lake paddling and I take it out on the open ocean frequently. I have surfed it and it is very good for rock gardens. This year I paddled through the winter, and I can keep up with your average sea kayaker, though a real strong or young paddler in a sea kayak will leave me in the dust. I am very happy with my choice.

[@The_Varza]

I have a 12.5 S Stratos and use to for learning to surf and do rock gardens without dying :D Can confirm, great for both -- because a scrub like me hasn't died trying in it yet!

[@MicajahMcCurry]

For sure! With an awesome boat to fit!

[@melissabeck6592]

I appreciate you taking this boat to whitewater. You were fair in clarifying that it wasn't designed for whitewater, but that if it handled that, then it was good for what it was designed for. I was, however, surprised that you didn't mention the bulkhead foot brace "system" -- that was what actually attracted me to the Stratos. I paddle surfskis and use leg drive, and on the one quick test drive I was able to take in a Stratos, I much preferred the feel of the firm bulkhead against my feet instead of the thin little pedals you get in so many kayaks. Keep the reviews coming! You do an awesome job! Thanks!

[@MGCooley]

Push it to the limit! It's nice to see how capable boats are in real world conditions, even it's far from something I'm ready to try myself

[@PaddleTV]

Glad to hear it, because I'm looking forward to pushing more kayaks out of their comfort zones! :)

[@absoluteelectricandmainten7432]

As requested, Here is my appreciation for this review. Due in part to this video, and a few other review videos, and personal reviews, I purchase a Stratos 14.5L. I am QUITE pleased with this boat. Att his point it is just a little above my skill level. But, I LIKE this. I can grow into this kayak and not feel like i need another one any time soon. With the skeg it tracks amazingly well. It takes a little bit to get the back band set right for comfort, but once you do this you can stay in the boats for hours at a time. It is a quick boat. Very smooth, and very nimble. Put it up on edge and you can turn a 360 in four to five wide sweeping strokes. I have paddled in water only about 6-8 in deep without any trouble. This is a definite bonus. I like paddling in shallow tributaries to see the real beauty of areas not often seen by motorized boats, or by canoe and other boaters. I would STRONGLY recommend this kayak to those who have advanced from the entry level recreation kayak, or even a recreation touring kayak. I had a Tsunami 140 and loved it. I am REALLY looking forward to getting to know this boat better. Next??? Time to learn to ROLL!! Also. Push a boat to it’s limits in reviews. Absolutely! Let’s see the real limits of a boat so others can also push themselves and grow with their boats.

[@mrjeffjob]

I have a number of higher end composite boats in the $4500 to $6000 range but I also bought this one. I absolutely love this boat for a number of reasons. First off I’d like to start by saying that it punches way above it’s weight class. The lower price certainly does not indicate low performance. I live in the Seattle area and it’s a kayaker’s paradise here. Lakes, slow and faster rivers, fresh water and salt water. So I have had this boat in all of it and it’s only limitation in my opinion is covering distance in open water with current and tide factored in. It’s too wide and short for efficiency past about 5 miles. That being said I always recommend this kayak for new paddlers because it handles everything else so well. It’s very inexpensive but still has all the performance and safety features of much more expensive boats. You will not outgrow it ever. So I have an open water play boat and an open water expedition boat so why this one? Well those two are specifically built to handle different conditions but the Stratos is a very good all arounder. It’s easier to handle off the water because it’s shorter and lighter than composites. It’s not going to get banged up and or broken when hitting obstacles on the water and I can let new paddlers use it without worrying about an expensive boat. I use it also for practice rescues and such again because I’m not worried about scraping the gelcoat finish. It is hands down the most comfortable kayak I’ve ever been in. It’s almost a memory foam seat and backband. You can adjust the seat, backband, thigh braces and foot braces so you can really dial in your fit. I strongly recommend trying this boat before others out there. The Virgo looks good also but its $500 more, the Tsunami has an inferior seat and just seems clumsy to me. I’m guessing many who buy this boat as a first one will never feel a need for an upgrade in the future. It just does so much so well.

[@charles-mr4oz]

I have one of these. I only paddle in the sea around West Wales. I have done everything in my Stratos that the members of my club have done in boats costing twice as much. It's not as fast as the longer sea kayaks and I think I have to work a bit harder but the longest day paddle was 40km . When I first started more experienced paddlers kept telling me that I should learn to use it without the skeg but I think you need the skeg for a lot of the time. It is very easy to turn in the tight spots around our fabulous Pembrokeshire coastline but I find it a pain to keep in a straight line without at least a bit of skeg. It's a brilliant boat and has given me a great deal of pleasure over the last few years.

[@PaddleTV]

I'm jealous of where you get to paddle! Not surprised to hear you love this boat out there. It really is a great boat and a great value.

[@rickquist3992]

Great review. I've seen a number of these out & about. I've never met an owner that had any noteworthy regrets. They're popular camping yaks, and something that one can take from the beginner level on up to a competent paddler. I'll toss out a tip that I've seen work to improve those "Tupperware Style" hatches: Spray the lid liberally inside & out with 303 Marine UV Protectant, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a soft cloth. Spray a little of the stuff on a rag and thoroughly apply to the hatch combing. Easy on/off & they'll stay put during a significant hit. Thanks for the presentation!

[@PaddleTV]

Good point on the 303. It definitely helps.

[@97lynds21]

Have owned a Dagger Stratos 14.5 for 4 years. Great boat. Mostly use it for touring larger lakes in my area. The other day I had it out in fairly windy conditions. Initially I had the skeg completely down and it really stabilizes the boat. However, what I really liked was pulling the skeg nearly all the way up and going downwind with wind chop and boat wakes. Really a fun experience. Cannot wait to try it again in these conditions. .

[@ChadPalmer]

I just purchased the 12.5 L last week and have been testing it out all week and LOVE it. I watched this video over a year ago and was like "I need to try that bad boy". Thanks for the great video and pushing it to the limits 🙏🏻

[@PaddleTV]

Awesome to hear you're loving it!! Cheers!

[@BrookeOland]

Ya, push it. I just bought this boat last fall and didn't get much chance to use it except in the Baddeck River estuary (flat water) and in the Bras d'Or with not much wind. I had a chance to go out in bit rougher conditions this year and I love this thing. Like you mentioned, it doesn't want to spin around on a dime and I found that minorly problematic in some riffs and minor rapids; but I like the "hybridity" (is that a word) of this boat. It fills all my kayaking needs at the age I'm at now...in my 60s. Thanks for the review.

[@timwonser7246]

Just watched Dagger14.5L test/review.Liked&enjoyed it! The answer to your final question,NO you did not do or explain too much! The reason I watch[am subscribed] is because of your thoroughness when doing a presentation,test,or teaching.I know of your credentials and have confidence because you are a person that"walks the walk"[or paddles the paddles?guess that didn't work]At any rate,keep doing the great job on all of the paddle t.v.videos that have set such a high quality standard for instructional/informational videos.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks for the kind words Tim!

[@CptOblivious]

Picked up my lime green 14.5L today. I'm in the U.K and this video helped my decision to buy the Stratos! Thanks for your video and also putting it through its paces! I'm 6.2 and 18 stone (250lbs) it's a good comfortable fit for me and I can't wait to take it out next weekend! Thanks again and I look forward to watching more of your videos. Have fun. Stay safe.

[@PaddleTV]

Great to hear! Thanks for sharing, and happy paddling!

[@markmartello]

That was pretty cool! You were testing my boat. Same size, same colors. It was great to see what someone with WAY more WW skills than I have can do with it. I got it for it's ability to cover distance on flat water, and still turn easier than an oil tanker when the skeg is up. Thank you!

[@PaddleTV]

Yup... you made a good choice!

[@davehaessig2937]

good review. I like the versatility of the Stratos and I think you demonstrated that.

[@MrTans79]

Great review… I bought a Stratos 14.5L after watching this and I love it. Mainly coastal adventures around Devon and Cornwall. I’m a bigger paddler and it’s solid in all the conditions I’ve tried so far 👍🏼

[@FreedomNetwork99]

One of the best reviews that I've seen. As a newbie, I want to know what a boat is capable of before I buy, so the boat can grow with me. :) Thank you so much. More reviews please.

[@PaddleTV]

Glad you enjoyed it! Lots more reviews coming. You can see a list of all the ones I've done this year here: kzbin.info/aero/PLVcFbzilrdXp5iDkjG9PDeL_rH132y6xX

[@danielmoniz9754]

I got a 12.5L this spring as my first sea kayak. I love this boat. Also got a wood greenland paddle. This is an amazing setup. I will be out surfing it as soon as I figure out a roll.

[@jwiereng]

9:15 " I would love to try the Stratos 12.5 " - I would love for you to do a review on that boat

[@robertcarpenter5681]

Ken, I really enjoy your indepth gear reviews and appreciate all the work that goes into providing solid information like this! Personally, I would like to know what a kayak can do in and out of its "comfort zone" as you so eloquently put it. It is a valuable service to provide a potential customer getting into the sport as well as a seasoned paddler looking to change or upgrade their vessel. Not everyone has the budget to purchase a different boat for every condition. So, by understanding what a kayak can do in a variety of situations would be useful. An example of this would be: a person who predominantly paddles whitewater, but also likes to paddle recreationally or vice versa. Thanks a lot for your unbiased honesty dripping in every video with a splash of comedy sprinkled in every discussion! Take care and keep paddling.

[@paulbrownlee9751]

I own one of these and have to agree with everything said. We did the Caledonian canal I Scotland, yeah great boat.

[@ianroberts5683]

@10:30. Can confirm. I have put several wilderness systems hatches on *not quite* all the way and they have flown off going down the highway during transit. The hatch leash isnt beefy enough to keep the hatch on for more than a few seconds of it flapping in the wind

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! So true.

[@timothycox4328]

I own this exact boat. My previous boat was a Wilderness Systems Seacret way back in the mid-90s. This review is spot on and makes me feel good about my goal of owning "one boat for all applications" aka a "Swiss Army Boat.".

[@PaddleTV]

Haven't tried the Seacret. Do you prefer the Stratos?

[@timothycox4328]

@@PaddleTV The Secret was a mid 90s boat so it's no contest. With the Stratos I can tour, kayak map with it, fish from it, do class I & II rivers and even fish with it. I also have mine rigged for sailing with a Falcon Sail. It's a do all boat.

[@TimberHillRedboneDogs]

Yes like gear pushed to its limit. Thank you. Have a great day and week

[@kennethbennetts9700]

Definitely got me looking at it. I live on lake Superior, so always interested in real world testing. Keep up the great work !

[@PaddleTV]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@markchipp9426]

Great test. Take it to the limit!! I've now got two of these - one for me and one for my wife. Been great in mellow stuff but we haven't hit anything hard yet.

[@GoDsCoDa]

Thank you so much for your videos! They are overall excellent and I have benefited much from watching them. To share my recent experience if it will benefit anyone....After much research and watching videos, I am considering purchasing a Dagger Stratus. I actually headed to the Kayak shop thinking I was going to get a Dagger Axis 12 ( which I still think is a very nice boat), but the workers there thought...I might outgrow it in 1-2 years, so then they started bringing out the Stratus, Vergo, and even the Tsunami was brought out by Wilderness Systems. Being that it appears Vergo is only 14ft plus and having a small car, I actually ended up testing out the Tsunami 125 and the Stratus 12.5L the next day. Being torn which would be best I think I have come to the conclusion that the Dagger Stratus 12.5S will be what I will consider purchasing. (Note: I am probably 5"9 ~190lbs). My early goals are to kayak around the lakes near me, but maybe in the future kayak rivers, white water, or even surf the ocean waves (watch video of this- looked cool and fun!). To note, I found the Tsunami probably tracks straighter but not sure if it was too significant. However, I am not sure if it would allow me to enjoy possible whitewater or ocean surf. Tsunami 125 to me, still an excellent kayak if anyone is looking to do lake, river kayaking (VERY STABLE, has a lot of features and was VERY comfortable for me.) Thank you PaddleTV again!

[@zimboy777]

i am looking at the Tsunami 125 and the Axis 12 and Stratos12.5S - want something good for lakes, rivers and calmish coast - what did you end up getting and thoughts?

[@GoDsCoDa]

I ended up purchasing the Dagger Stratus 12.5S. It was a hard decision but I think the Axis may be a little more fun to paddle on rivers, perhaps more rough water if I gain more experience. Looking back, I think the tsunami may be more stable but in my opinion they both are very good kayaks. If you can find a place that will let you do a test run that might be helpful- I paid 50$ to try out the tsunami and stratus in a pond area. Wilderness may have a better seat too but one unique feature of the axis is the foot board (not pedal, its like putting your feet against a board that you can adjust). As far as for lakes, I think any of the kayaks you listed would be just fine and for rivers and I think the dagger axis could probably even handle calm coast. What I would mention is, how comfortable are we in getting back in our kayak in those conditions (and can we roll the kayak yet?) 🙂 I am not confident yet in getting back in the Stratus on a river/ haven't successfully rolled it yet either- I think I would need help to get back in or have to go to the side of the river. In the sea, I think I would strongly prefer to have someone with me. I have also considered the WS Tarpon 12 foot also because it is sit on top and I think I would feel more comfortable getting back in until I have more confidence with above mentioned. Hope this helps!@@zimboy777

[@zimboy777]

yes thanks i'm still looking and have the hurricane santee 126 which is a super light great kayak for lakes and class 1 rivers - getting back into it and will try test the ones we mentioned - i think the secret it to go for something quite different for more adventure when the rivers are swollen so testing the axis would be fun@@GoDsCoDa

[@debrascheer4577]

Love to see you push it. Really see how good it is

[@PaddleTV]

Sounds good. I have a feeling I'm going to break a kayak this season... :)

[@dismaldog]

I always thought i had bought the right boat-but now that Ken has approved-i KNOW it for sure!!!!

[@PaddleTV]

Ha!

[@stewartmcgrath1831]

Well a gave a "phew" when you liked it, I bought one just before the pandemic kicked in and sad to say its been sat in my garage ever since, now we are easing up a little it's gonna get some use on the Anglesey coast 👍

[@dismaldog]

i got mine 3 yrs ago and love that sucker,hope you do too-just such an awesome skill building kayak

[@hankb1604]

Stratos 14.5L is an easy combat roll also if required. Sweet kayak!

[@johnburns6247]

Good review! I like to see an experienced knowledgeable kayaker testing these boats. Helps answer a lot of questions. Thanks for this.

[@PaddleTV]

My pleasure!

[@MrMagooRC]

Great video! My wife and I have just bought a couple of Stratos 14.5L's as a 'step up' from the sit on tops we've been using. We're very new to kayaking, so we've only really used them for some training courses (basics, capsize/rescue etc) so far, but we're loving them. Super-confidence inspiring stability, which was important for us coming from the SOT's, but so much easier to cover some distance in. Would have loved this video a couple of months back, COVID meant no test-paddles in the UK, so we had to take a punt and buy them blind based on internet reviews, none of which covered as much as this video. Awesome stuff. BTW - what did you think of the Greenland paddle?

[@PaddleTV]

Great to hear! Wish I could have started filming these videos earlier too. As for the Greenland paddle... stay tuned. I did a full video about it, which will release soon.

[@mikesaunders4694]

I bought a stratos 14.5L a couple of years ago for day trips where taking my 17’7” glass boat was overkill. I’ve been really pleased with it. The rougher it gets the more it likes it, a very confidence inspiring boat. The hatches get easier with use…it’s not the fastest on flat water but it’s fast enough….rolls ok. Does need a touch of skeg when windy to aid tracking.For its class and price I don’t have anything bad to say about it.

[@comfortablycurt]

Great review! I definitely like to see reviews on gear like this pushed to the limit. As you said, most people looking into buying this kayak aren't going to be taking it through rough whitewater conditions, but some of us definitely will be, and it's good to see that it can handle it before making a purchase.

[@PaddleTV]

Cheers!

[@pj6657]

Great review of the stratos 14.5. Recently subscribed to your channel because of the great content. I would love to see a review of the 12.5 for comparison. Many thanks from Northern Ireland

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks for the good words! I'm hoping to get my hands on a 12.5, as I think it would be the right boat for my style of paddling. If/when I do, I'll be sure to do a comparison. Cheers!

[@jimwortham8634]

Thanks so much for posing enjoyed watching a real paddler I noticed once the water got rough you lost that little 2x4 paddle LOL

[@PaddleTV]

Glad you enjoyed... and yes, I like having a full blade for the rough stuff! :)

[@heatherjones4254]

I have this kayak ..the 14.5 S. I love it!.. It's great for rock gardening and even general paddles out on the ocean. I have to push myself a bit to keep up to people with 16-18 ft long kayaks but my kayak is so maneuverable and fun to paddle that it's worth the extra workThe thigh braces are too flimsy for rolling but by bolting in some nylon 1/3 inch thick cutting board pieces, it is plenty firm!...

[@ronbell7920]

That was a good idea! For the thigh braces, by the way.

[@KevinAussie]

Thanks, Ken I like to see you push the gear it gives some of us a better idea of what is possible with improved skills.

[@jeffdavis2469]

I have had one for about 3 years have wanted to try whitewater but haven't yet so I appreciate your review! It handles everything I do very well and is even the kayak I choose (with a deck bag for tackle) most often for fishing!!

[@BrianthatiscalledBrian]

Great review. Really good idea that it comes in large and small. Thanks Kenja...err...Ken. 😋👍

[@rgsparber1]

You didn’t comment on the fancy paddle.

[@nunyabidness3075]

Yeah, how about that Greenland paddle?

[@PaddleTV]

I did a full video about the paddle... Stay tuned!

[@ohblackwater]

Push it to it's limit. I really appreciate your reviews. Thank you!

[@PaddleTV]

My pleasure!

[@tjj4505]

Great review, always push the limits!

[@kentwaddleton9225]

Thanks Ken, nice to see the capabilities of this Kayak.

[@PaddleTV]

My pleasure!

[@1Chuzzlewit]

Nice one, Ken. I had a 14.5L and it's really great fun for ocean paddling close in, where you can dart in between rocks and do tight manouvering. It's a lot of fun to surf as you can so easily change direction by edging, more so than in any other sea kayak I've paddled of a similar length. I didn't keep mine because I missed the glide and tracking of a more conventional style sea kayak but that's not to say that the Stratos isn't good. It certainly tracks well witj the skeg down and speed is acceptable. A great kayak IMO. Would like to see you review the Point 65 Whiskey 16 3L one day.

[@leatherindian]

I’ve had that paddle and that kayak for a couple of years. Love them both! I’ve played in rough water and find it handles well.

[@PaddleTV]

Great to hear!

[@robdawg1973]

Just did a 48km round Gozo in the Mediterranean in a 5 year old Dagger Stratos 14.5S. My kayak buddies couldn't help noticing how fast and capable this kayak is , especially for its price tag!

[@PaddleTV]

Wow! That sounds like a nice trip.

[@KZ-yu4jz]

Great review. Like seeing you pushing the boats to the limits. It would be niceto see a review of the Dagger Katana crossover (built more for white water). Would be curious to hear your thoughts on the differences between it and the Stratos.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks! Yes, I would like to test the Katana. I've got a 5-day river trip in mind for it too!

[@joshinfwtx4506]

@@PaddleTV 5 day WW trip with Ken?! Sweet! Looking forward to that video.

[@SabrinaDawn444]

I love to see gear pushed to its limit. I feel I learn a lot from what you say, it's fun to watch, and it helps me learn gear. Thank you Would like to know more about the paddle though.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Sabrina! Stay tuned for a full video on the paddle. Coming very soon...

[@Mhdogman]

I'm getting rid of my Stratos. It's awesome in moving water. The twitchyness get to my older broken back in flat. I have another much more stable boat for the flat. It is a awesome boat for sure. By all means push it. Love your videos Ken. Smiles

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks for the kind words! What boat are you using now?

[@dannyroberts5056]

I live in South West Mo. USA and about three years ago I bought a Canadian built kayak. Its called a Paluski Riptide. Its yellow and black camo pattern. I love this kayak and I have used it on local lakes, rivers and small creeks. Its got tones of volume and tracks very well. Its extremly stable but still excellerates just fine. I bought this boat so I would have a kayak for our creeks and rivers here in the Ozarks. I generaly paddle a cedar strip touring kayak that I built for distance paddling . You should do a review on the Paluski Riptide. Great boat.

[@PaddleTV]

I've never heard of that boat. I'll be sure to check out! Thanks for the suggestion. Always looking for cool boats to try.

[@chrislavigne1212]

I love my stratos 14.5 its my go to creek boat and when waves are 2.5’+great for surf, i paddle it up to about 8-10 miles, anything more i take one of my other boats. I highly recommend this boat and loan it out when i take out a friend. I use a gearlabs with it as well but not often. Most days i use my wing paddle i can get the speed up few more miles an hour. Thanks for the review. Love the channel!

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Chris!

[@MarcusModulus]

Can personally attest to how those Stratos thigh braces perform through braces and rolls in surf and rock gardening. We have 5 stratos kayaks, three 14.5L and two 14.5S and they've seen the works for years. Those thigh braces have never failed. Stratos kayaks are beasts and a pretty perfect combination of rough water maneuverability and touring capabilities for open ocean, rock gardening and so on. I'd prefer a proper surf kayak or river kayak for surf and white water respectively (and I'd rather have a proper touring kayak if I was going to do a 20 mile day on open water), but I know from personal experience it can surf a wave if need be, and I'd imagine white water would be similar.

[@PaddleTV]

Awesome Mark! Thanks for sharing your experience with them!

[@gibb013]

What a great review and someone that is very watchable. So many numpties on KZbin. great fun, just subscribed. Would this make a good first time kayak. Thanks in advance.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks for the kind words! Yes, the Stratos would make a good first time kayak - assuming this is the type of kayak you're interested in. This video has more information on how to choose the right beginner kayak - kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5qWZYuroNuab5I. Cheers!

[@JonPaddles]

Yes keep showing great being pushed but always remind people you're doing just that do they don't think it's normal for the gear.

[@markpearce7739]

It would be great to see a review of a Wave Sport Hydra, to compare to the Dagger Strat... great videos btw

[@davidmiller4594]

I'm considering the Dagger Axis 12.0 They advertise it to be white water ready. Glad to see a professional do it before I think I can get it though that!

[@PaddleTV]

I've actually been wanting to test the Axis for a while now! Hopefully soon!

[@ArthurHanna]

Like your ninja move!

[@TomaszFurmanek]

Great review!

[@KoukyouRyuu]

It's definitely cool to see you paddling it on white water, especially if they say it's suitable for coastal waters. Not quite as cool as your ninja moves though.

[@PaddleTV]

Watching those Ninja moves in slow motion, I've realized I need some more practice.. :)

[@jimmurdy5762]

FWIW I love my stratos, great to a have boat that i can't outpaddle, so no change boat issues for a long time. I have the 14.5 L finding a spray skirt that is not too difficult to get on has been a pain. The best fit is a Seals 1.7 surf neoprene, tight but not impossible, Second best was NRS Drylander, super tight but could get in on after a bailout on the water. don't like the off center grab, last and not workable for me was an Immersion Research shockwave, which I could get on on shore with a fight, but could not get on reliable in the water. of course YMMV

[@suzannereese987]

I like to see it pushed to its limits

[@blacktreevideo9472]

Superb,loved watching both you and tge boat pushed a bit 👏

[@mattdelong8238]

You need to review that ninja paddle you were using!

[@PaddleTV]

Ask and you shall receive! The Review of the Outdoor GearLab Kalleq is coming soon.

[@LookoutLance]

Ken, great review. Im not sure how tall you are but I am 6ft/2.5 and 185lb I paddle the 14.5S. If you can get in one, you would be amazed how well that performs. I surf mine in some pretty big waves, it never ceases to amaze me how well it does so many things. If I could only ever have one of the many kayaks I have owned, this one would probably be it. Btw I am a gearlab ninja paddler too, I can't understand the concept of paddling with a spoon. Stratos Faction Paddlers down under. Aotearoa (New Zealand)

[@PaddleTV]

I'll have to try a 14.5S. As long as I'm comfortable, I feel the same way as you - smaller and more nimble is better. Funny... the other day I was thinking to myself, "if I could only have one kayak, what would it be". I decided it was an impossible decision to make :) but the Stratos was definitely one of the kayaks in the conversation. Cheers!

[@guyrichard2030]

This is great Ken, I was actually looking for a Rec kayak to wreck it around small rapids and lending it to paddling buddies...superb review 👌👍 Merci beaucoup 😀🇨🇦✌

[@PaddleTV]

Glad you liked it Guy!

[@beauwalls1726]

Push it, push it real good.

[@arcana1973]

I've been looking at this boat to take out on Lake Erie and Ontario. Sadly, I can't find it in stock anywhere. Maybe when I can finally get my hands on one they will have upgraded the hatches.

[@smd2332]

Great review! Nice job, you nailed it.

[@bootwheelwingandkeel5506]

The Stratos 14.5l is at the top of the list for my next kayak. Loved the review. It's a teaser though since I haven't been able to actually find this boat for sale freakin anywhere, at least not anywhere I can get to easily.

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! Sorry for the tease. It's crazy how hard it is to find kayaks these days, isn' it?

[@bootwheelwingandkeel5506]

@@PaddleTV It worked out ok. I ended up with a used Dagger Specter 15, the Stratos's older cousin. Now I can use the money I saved to get a paddle that doesn't double as a barbell.

[@maxboo1]

Thanks for the review. I am getting one tomorrow.

[@PaddleTV]

Great to hear! Enjoy the rest of the summer with it!

[@iowaadventures4701]

Push to get to enjoyment

[@andibandi2098]

This is a pretty good talk about a nice kajak and and by an experienced kayaker. however it reminds of a ryan reynolds skit about outdoor hobbys ;)

[@sheldons1501]

Great review! I have a newer Tsunami 145 and would love to see a similar review. What size paddle are you using? Is that the Aquabound Whiskey? I have a Aquabound Manta Ray Hybrid. I think I should have gone for a Stingray.( for longer distance paddling). My next paddle will be a Fibreglass Tango or Carbon Stingray maybe? Thanks for the video! Keep them coming.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Sheldon! Yes, it's the Aquabound Whiskey. It's been my 'go to' paddle for a few years now for touring. I have to admit that I would normally use one of Aquabound's carbon paddles for paddling in whitewater. I don't think I've tried the Whiskey Fiberglass in this type of water.... It did the trick though!

[@311rooster]

Enjoyed the review

[@Kathy-xy2sr]

Great test! Beautiful country up dare in the north land!

[@PaddleTV]

And a great excuse to paddle some whitewater!

[@tominnenPL]

Now that is a real kayak! Ok, thumb up 👍🏻. Ken, what about greenland paddle? Is it ok, or not?

[@PaddleTV]

I've got a video coming out soon about my first impression of a Greenland paddle, along with a review of this particular paddle. Stay tuned!

[@gordonbarton8440]

I like the Stratos but fund the whole boat a bit flexible/soft not just the thigh braces. That said, a great boat. We paddle grade 3 in those as a touring boat but no doubt it can handle more. Prefer the P&H Virgo overall

[@scottatkins8346]

Yes, I really like to see gear pushed to the limit and see if the manufacturer claims are accurate or not. Are you planning on reviewing a Perception Carolina 14 anytime soon? If not, I would love to see you review this kayak. Thanks!

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks! I'm hoping to review the Carolina. It's hard to get hold of one these days...

[@dbkonkle]

Push them all I say. Some folks have to choose only 1 kayak that needs to be able to do everything at least a little bit. I chose a Jackson Karma RG since most of my paddling is on moving water, but this might be a good choice as well in the shorter boat.

[@PaddleTV]

The Karma is a boat I'm looking forward to trying!

[@alanb9152]

Thank you for this review. I liked it so much I ended up buying a Dagger Stratos 14.5 and I am super happy with it. The one thing I think this review missed is what spray skirt are you using. So what spray skirt did you use?

[@LiquidFusionKayak]

Nice overview review of the Stratos. The 14.5 is our go to boat for rock gardening and coastal play. We have put it through the paces and made some modifications to it specifically for rock garden play. Modifications include security straps on the hatches and whitewater center pillar and bulkhead foot rests. See the Stratos in action in rock gardens, sea caves, and surf on the Mendocino Coast of California our KZbin Channel.

[@cherokeebilly69_jeepnwv11]

Great review. I am a flat water guy and have a Perception rhythm 11. What I’m interested in is how the ninja paddle worked out over the more traditional type.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks! Here's the latest video I did about Greenland paddles. I review the new IPIK, but I talk about my experience with using Greenland paddles over the past year. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJ3Ig5aCmqapeq8

[@cherokeebilly69_jeepnwv11]

@@PaddleTV ok thanks! Really love watching your videos, I’ve learned a lot from them.

[@soihavetoplay]

Great job!!

[@PaddleTV]

Thank you!

[@AndrewMcCracken]

That’s quite a decent. review. Given that the Stratos is billed as a rough water boat, it is entirely appropriate that you pushed its limits in a WW environment. Regarding the hatch covers, those dual-density Confluence covers are suspect, in my experience. I wonder if you got much water in the hatches.

[@groovymoon]

Awesome review. How's the vertical space for your feet. I am looking for a touting boat. I tried a Tsunami 140 but my size 12's were vertically cramped.

[@CasperSPT]

Loved this video, and keep pushing the gear. The only two questions I am left with are: Do I get the 12.5 L or S? And where can I even buy one? I am over this pandemic.... hopefully we'll be on the other side of it soon.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks! As for the L or S version... I wish I could offer some guidance. All I can say is that the S would be more maneuverable, but the L would likely be more comfortable for long paddles and have more storage space for multi-day trips. Cheers!

[@paulbrough4861]

Great review, very helpful.

[@joshinfwtx4506]

Thank you for this review. I'm in TX. I paddle mostly rivers and occasional lakes here and in OK and AR. This seems to be the class of boat that I'd get most use out of and Stratos looks great. Big question for me is what other boats are comparable?

[@PaddleTV]

Good question. There are LOTS of comparable kayaks out there. Most established manufacturers have a 'Recreational Touring' model between 12 - 15 feet long, with a cockpit that is designed to take a skirt. To name a few... Old Town has the Castine, Wilderness Systems has the Tsunami, Feel Free has the Aventura, and P&H has the Virgo. FYI: I'll be testing the Aventura and the Virgo very soon.

[@joshinfwtx4506]

@@PaddleTV thanks! I really appreciate the feedback. Looking forward to learning about P&H Virgo (I know nothing about that manufacturer). The guy that does Headwaters Kayak channel is a big fan of Aventura. I look forward to seeing your take on it. I really appreciate your videos. Your safety and stroke videos were very helpful back when I was first getting started.

[@NightHawk59]

Did you like the Greenland-style paddle? I've thought about trying one out, but the lighter ones can get kinda pricey. ALWAYS take gear to their absolute limits!

[@PaddleTV]

I did a video that answers your question in detail... Stay tuned, as it should come out very soon.

[@Laubrewer]

Not too much - great review. Love the rec touring reviews because - selfishly-that’s what I’m thinking of buying :).

[@PaddleTV]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jimmurdy5762]

great review......I just got same boat (couple years older so nice lime green :) ) It is serving me well in my journey back to kayaking. Only issue I am having is getting a sprayskirt that is not too tight to put on in the water. (current is immersion research...really nice but so tight even an instructor suggested looking for a different one) and review was just right....kind of fun to see it pushing it' limits in a river

[@PaddleTV]

Hi Jim. Yes, having the right size skirt makes a huge difference. I used a Large Keyhole skirt, and it went on very smoothly. Most 'sea kayak' skirts will be too small for this boat.

[@paulmunro3050]

I don't know why people don't like the lime green so much, I've just ordered a new one in that colour! 😂 Good tip on skirt thanks

[@jimmurdy5762]

@@paulmunro3050 I really like my lime green

[@paulmunro3050]

@@jimmurdy5762 aqua blue it is, the shop I purchased from said they'd had it on order since sept 2020 and it's only arrived last week. Done around 20miles so far love it 👍👍👍

[@edwardvickers5506]

Stratos,jura,virgo,aspect all on the list to check out.

[@PaddleTV]

Testing out the Virgo next week! Looking forward to that one.

[@Jeremy-qf8sj]

I've been tryin to absorb as much as I can from your wealth of knowledge that you share on your channel! I'm new to kayaking and have the same yak (although14.5s). Do you think it would be good to use in the ocean? Living in Newfoundland we have many small islands around to explore, I'm wondering if it would be safe, in the right conditions of course.

[@PaddleTV]

The Stratos is definitely worthy of the open ocean. To be frank, the limiting factor will be you! :) The problem with the open ocean (or any exposed water) is that conditions can and will change without notice, and so you need to be ready for that. When you're further from shore than you can comfortably swim, you also need to be confident in your self rescue techniques. All that being said...I would highly recommend taking a sea kayaking course before heading into open water. You'll likely learn a LOT from it. Cheers!!

[@Jeremy-qf8sj]

@@PaddleTV I really appreciate your reply! I will certainly take your advice. Thank you so much for that and alllll the things you've taught me!

[@andrewthompson9072]

I'd love to see a review on the current designs solara 135. It looks like a nice rec touring hybrid.

[@PaddleTV]

I would love to do one as well! It would help if you sent their customer service a note to tell them they should send me a review kayak, as I haven't got a response from Current Designs about reviewing any kayak of theirs. Cheers!

[@pauldanielewicz1054]

Great honest review. Nice to see you in whitewater again. (Loved your playboating video), Looks like an excellent performance Kayak. I’ve only paddled the Ottawa a handful of times, and didn’t remember that rapid. What is the name of that rapid?

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Paul! The rapid is McKoys - the first of the river.

[@jafojeff9577]

Love you pushing it to the limits. I am looking for a kayak for great lake wave surfing that also works well on flat water. Currently have a old town loon that is a bit of a tug boat when trying to catch a wave and with the giant cockpit am a little concerned about swamping which i think would happen pretty easily. Was looking at the dagger Katana as it seems like it would fit the bill nicely but most of the wave surfing videos show people in longer kayaks. This one has peaked my interest. Can probably catch smaller waves in a longer boat but you always see them get trapped sideways on a wave. I am interested in your thoughts.

[@PaddleTV]

This is definitely what the Stratos was designed for, although I would consider trying the shorter Stratos (12 footer).

[@skthomas9428]

Great review. Would love to learn your thoughts of the Wilderness System Tsunami 125.

[@PaddleTV]

I've had a lot of requests for that review. I'm looking forward to trying the Tsunami.

[@RonK]

love that review. Thanks

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Ronny!

[@massimoaugu]

Hi, what is better, stratos or p&h virgo? Thank you

[@Patriotic327]

New subscriber, taking a intro to WW class this weekend at a park, but I’m still interested in the 12.5. I’m also the 1-2% that would attempt something in that.

[@PaddleTV]

Hope the WW class went well! That's how I got hooked a few decades ago.