Story 1 Person Drop Stitch Inflatable Kayak (aka Story Highline) Review

[@ThorRuneHansen]

I baught it. It's awsome. They redid the stuff you demerited i think. That broken plastic piece for the cover is now a flexible plastic piece. The pump was way better then I expected, actually double action! Pumps on up and downstroke and can deflate. Can't complain of the paddle either. And I've used it in the ocean now for a 2h trip and it feels very good, very stable. I met a 200 foot ship and it took the wake splendidly :) only thing I don't like yet is the seat, but hopefully som tinkering with the straps can make it better eventually.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah overall it's brilliant! Regarding the seat, do you find it arches in the middle of the back rest? That's been my experience. I'm wondering if it's because I've got the booster underneath. I'm going to try it with the booster on top of the seat section so the seat base is on the boat base.

[@ThorRuneHansen]

Yes it arches, or if I take in some slack so it don't arch its at a bit of an odd angle, also the bottom of the chair seems to slide around a bit on the surface. But that was kind of ok to vary the sitting position. The velcro on the cousin makes it clear it's supposed to be underneath.

[@ThorRuneHansen]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner but that was day 1 for me. I'll probably find a better way later, or I may get another seat. Still happy with the boat :)

[@deanwelch6432]

Hi there ...really liked your review. Could you tell me more out the pump please you say it can deflate???

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

UPDATE: EuroSkateShop offered me a refund of £12 for the damaged part, which is fine as I was planning on making my own replacement anyway. Let me know if you like this review... and if you've got one of these what do you think of it?

[@rastokolesar6570]

How do you manage to inflate it without holding a nozzle all the time inserted into the hole? Any ideas?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@rastokolesar6570 the nozzle twists and locks in place 👍

[@rachaelheede2104]

Thanks for replying. I bought mine from Euroskateshop too for £359 They were selling the lime green one (new colours) for same price as new entry model. So prices do fluctuate (a lot). If you are patient, watch prices, act quick and not fussy about colour it is still possible to pick up one for a good price ( it’s back up in price again) The new colour is actually fine up close; bright and cheerful. I’m going to Dumfries for a few days at weekend and will try in out then.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

You're very welcome and I'm glad you got it at a good price. I'll have to check out the new colours. I'm planning a Scotland trip mid to end of September 😁👍 I hope you have a great time.

[@mikeodonovan7325]

cracking bit of kit well presented nice video thanks for putting it up

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Indeed it is 😁 Thanks for watching & commenting 👍😁

[@ianewen6339]

Having owned a drop stitch kayak for 16 months now, found their are a number of brands all using the same design, Sea eagle, Blue wave, Bic, ect ect, all built in China and branded for different manufacturers. What I do agree with you is .....these are actually good in most water types, I've covered over 94 miles of exposed Scottish North east Coastline In calm water to 0.9 sea swell . Like your storage bag, big improvement on my wrap around sheet

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yes there are quite a few that are designed the same, with wide price variations too! Once you've paddled a DS model it's hard going back to to a large chamber one. It feels like just that- 'going back'. The handling, pace and agility are just so different.

[@MusicMatters95]

Waiting for mine to arrive, and can't wait to get out on the river. Thanks for the review.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I bet you'll love it 😁 I'm glad you liked the review 👍

[@gulyaspisti]

Mine arrived (3 person) a few weeks ago. Absolutely delighted with it. Also, have 2 sevylor inflatable one, but have to say this high pressure inflatable is a different "story".

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah the drop stitch ones are a game changer. I've also done a review of the Riber 2 person one shown in this video. I bought it for kayak camping last year but it's much better suited for tandem paddling rather than solo. This one though, great solo operation and hopefully I'll get my camping gear in too 😁👍

[@gulyaspisti]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner hope you will enjoy it. Looking forward to hear about your camping experiences.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Cheers. I hope you have fun in your huge Story 😁👍

[@krzysztofczerski5939]

How stable the 3 person one is? Is it easy to get in and out? Im thinking about getting one for my other half and 4 years old one. Cheers

[@gulyaspisti]

@@krzysztofczerski5939 we found it relatively stable but probably not as stable as our sevylor minnesota. However, we managed to get in and out easy even with our 5 years daughter on board. It is very speedy compare to the sevylor ones.

[@ijsvogels_nl]

Great, just found this kayak online and was looking for a review and espacially how it packs/folds. Thanks!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

You're welcome - I'm glad it helped 👍😀

[@Herravanrikki]

Just tested mine in the cold waters of Siikajoki, northern Finland. I’ll say that the boat is great in calm waters. With the fin it’s a pleasure to paddle forward. It’s light and faster than the hard-shell white-waters kayak of my brother. About the materials and quality, it’s great. It’s more than capable of taking hits from rocks. But absolutelly do not take it to rapids unless you’re prepared to swim. In its core it is a SUP-board with walls. With a propper seat it might work. What happened to me was that you could not get a good grip to sit on it, thus moving the center of gravity to the sides and giving you a nice swim. I really enjoyed paddling and it seems like a great fishing kayak. It might also be that im not used to it yet since my previous inflatable was a Coleman Fastback that was impossible to tip over.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Yes I agree, this is definitely a calmer water craft 👍😁

[@Zubareffstream111]

You should send your review to Story. I was really surprised that, not only were there no user reviews but also that there were no promo videos from the manufacturers themselves. I actually thought they might be dodgy at first so this is really good to see. Their prices have gone up again and I'm beginning to wish I'd bought one during their sale. Sadly, the hybrid 2 person one I wanted wasn't included in their sale anyway. 🙄

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I know what you mean. It's a bit of a worry ordering from some companies where the brand/company are not well known.

[@ThorRuneHansen]

I felt the same way but eventually I called them to ask some questions and got s great impression. The guy on the phone had clearly used it a good bunch himself, took his time to answer well, and actually recommended against the more expensive one with the foot paddle, i appreciate such honesty :)

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@ThorRuneHansen oh yeah that foot pedal one looks dreadful 😂

[@Zubareffstream111]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner I'd love to see a review of the Story 2 person hybrid but of course you'd have to buy one. ;-) euroskateshop.uk/story-2-person-inflatable-hybrid-kayak-17788.html?v=17787 It's even wider than the Riber at 90cm (Riber is 82) so might be eve more stable. I'm going to reluctantly buy the Riber as £500 is good value and also they don't have the Story hybrid in stock right now so my hand is forced a little.

[@adamwalker7338]

Send it to Euroskate. You are selling yaks for them. Bet you could "test drive" a 2 man for them early spring.

[@geofffskrivener229]

Love it. It tracks very cleanly & offers paddling ease because of its narrow & low walls. I guess the downside is that when the seat is raised on the cushion* it feels surprisingly tippy. The buoyancy of the walls seem to let it regain stability once it's tipped around 10*, but by then, the top of the short walls seem quite close to the water & gives a worry about a dramatic swamping. I think I need to find some warmish water to capsize it a few times & become more relaxed about it's self righting ability before that point of no return. *Seems odd that the thick, bulky cushion was not also air filled? It would allow the option of increasing stability by letting some air out . It would also also reduce the pack size a fair bit.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah that booster cushion is pointless and as you say, makes you feel really unstable in the boat.

[@ThorRuneHansen]

Awsome, very glad of this review. Glad you actually water tested it, all other reviews i found just blow up the damn thing in the kitchen and say "ya looks all right" :P haha. I'm very interested to find out how it performs when it's a bit choppy! But on your rivers you don't get a lot of waves, i suppose.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I'm glad you liked it. I'll be uploading my first trip out later this week - it was on the Foss which is pretty calm. I do want to take it on the Ouse which is more unpredictable, especially in summer when the motor boats head up and down so yes, it will be more choppy then.

[@assortedpov9722]

I wanted one of these but they're all sold out. Bought something very similar but nearly £200 cheaper than the current price of the Story - hence for anybody looking for a full dropstitch kayak very similarly specced to this one, check out Sandbanks Style's Explorer kayak. Also as a complete novice kayaker (literally had never kayaked before, only once in tandem with a mate in an Itiwit), I found it very pleasant to paddle down the Great Stour (Kent) from Fordwich to Grove Ferry on my first outing, with 2 friends in more traditional inflatable kayaks.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Good stuff :D

[@sh010272]

Ahoy, I received our two man version of this early this week. It was on offer 50% off! My test inflate I also broke the splash guard! I am based in York as well!!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Haha brilliant, we might bump into each other on the water 😁 Mine was 50% off too 👍 Yeah that splash guard piece is a bit crap. I'm considering trying to fashion one.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

They've offered me a refund (£12) for the damaged part which is fine as I was planning on making my own replacement anyway.

[@sh010272]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner did you just drop them a picture and note? Ps thanks for the update

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@sh010272 You're welcome :) I emailed them with a pic - they directed me to their complaints form which was basically emailing them with a pic again... But they came through :D

[@maxsolo2652]

I got AquaMarine Tomahawk. The splash screen is really good and does not break when bent.

[@SIK1968]

I actually just got one of these today up here in North Norway. Packed it up and inflated it in my living room. It was easy to inflate and I was impressed with the built quality. Very nice kayak. I can't wait to test it on the water, but for now it's winter up here in the North.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Haha yeah I did a test inflate in my bedroom :D I hope you get to enjoy it soon!

[@ThorRuneHansen]

If you use the kayak right you don't go in the water so what does it matter if it's winter ;)

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Ha! :D

[@SIK1968]

@@ThorRuneHansen We have frozen lakes here now, that's why...! ;-D

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah that'd put a stopper on things hahaha

[@wirixian]

I brought the 3 man version, which so far has proven to be a delight, easy to set up ,though seats took a couple of trips before we found the best set up for comfort. Feels a bit tippy but actually is pretty stable and can take choppy waters well. The back pack is useable as a backpack, though it is easier to use the wheels where possible. I would say it is ideal for family leisure and for a fun paddle.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

How much does the 3 man version weigh?

[@wirixian]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner About 27 kg, they state 25 kg but i don't think that weight includes weight of bag, seats etc...

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@wirixian that's still a lot lighter than my 2 man Riber 🥴

[@THE-RIVER-RAT]

Buddy I've just come across this old video of yours and I have to say it's a nice looking boat, however I wouldn't pay that much for it almost £500 seems like a bloody lot if you ask me... However great review and as I said it does look nice, and maybe if they still had it at the price you paid I would be tempted.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah I've still got that one. It's quite sleek and moves well in the water. It's not as stable feeling as some of the wider ones but it's pros and cons 👍😁 It wasn't called the Highline when I bought it and the colour schemes now are different. But I agree, it's worth waiting for one of their sales before buying 😁

[@DennisMathias]

More paddling! Take us out, mate!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Oh I intend to 😁👍 Have you seen my kayaking playlist containing all my trips out? I didn't have great kit for recording last year but my videos from this I feel are certainly much better 👍 Here's the playlist so you can have a look through them - kzbin.info/aero/PL72eHNB551x0Tu8csf88z_ADpuLM4QqRf

[@DANCEGASMAN]

It would appear that they are selling a lesser model now for £660. Seems crazy based on your experience...

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I've just had a quick check and you're right. The one I bought is still advertised but OOS. I wonder if my review has increased sales!

[@TheKayakCrew]

Hi, I finally got one of these but am having problems pumping it up! The hand pump has a hose with a thread which screws onto the thread of the connector on the pump. The problem is that the hose only screws on about 2/3 of the way onto the connector, I guess there is a problem with the thread. This means that when I pump the kayak up, air starts to leak out of the connection between the hose and the pump. It also means that the pressure gauge on the pump fails to register the pressure. I have got another pump which I tried. This worked better but it for some reason kept detaching off the valves on the kayak, it just will not lock on. The only way I could use it was to hold the hose on the valves with one hand while I pumped with the other hand. I did wonder if I was not locking the valves properly. They are different to my other drop stitch kayak. The problem with inflation is definitely the connection on the Story pump, but I was surpised that my other pump will not lock onto the valves for some reason, I thought that they were standard. Did you have any problems with the pump and valves with your Story kayak?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

That's very strange. Like you say, as far as I'm aware too they are standard. The hose for my GoPlus fits my Story. I haven't really had any problems with mine 😶

[@adamwalker7338]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner I thought the Intex had a different type hose connector?

[@ordnanceant2254]

Hi, thanks for the videos watched a few of them now. How do these fully drop stitched kayaks compare to a kayak with domed sides and drop stitch base from a stability point of view?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Largely these feel way more tippy and take a little getting used to 😁

[@angelasalt6553]

Thank you for the review. Do you have a view on the difference between the Highland 1 & the Division 1? Thank you.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

You're welcome 👍 at the time of purchase they weren't called Highline and Division. My plan was to use the boat for kayak/camping trips and so my decision to buy this one, now called the Highline was based on it being slightly bigger with greater load bearing capacity. I figured it would have enough space to carry all my gear. So far it's worked out ok on that score 😁👍

[@mikesmith9781]

Hi great video. I'm torn between the story or the blue wave the story seems to have a few more features. as I review these drop stitch kayaks they all seem to come from the same factory what's your view on that. Thanks

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I think they do Mike, and then they're branded elsewhere by the purchasers 👍

[@chrisharrison1362]

Thanks for that review really useful, I bought a new one and took it to ulswater, unfortunately my balance wasn’t good and the lake was rough, however still got in and managed a nice row all be it short as it was cold. Have you any tips on the seat and footrests?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Hi Chris, I'm glad it was useful 👍 I have no issue with the foot rest, although I do find it works better if once you've velcro'd it, you loop the back and front around each other, thus making the pad and the strap into the rest. I hope that makes sense. As for the seat I recommend not using the booster as it makes you feel unstable. I do recommend these kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmrRk4Ctmd6thKM I use one of these in all my IKs 👍😁

[@assortedpov9722]

Have you been able to easily drain this kayak using the plug in the tail cone thing? The only real flaw of the drop-stitch kayak I own the position of the drain plug being useless. The water collects in the seams at the bottom of the side walls but the drain plug is behind the seat; I have to tip it up one end and try to mop out the inside of the hard cone bit with a towel. Thinking of giving that one to my dad so we can go paddling together and I'll buy the Story Highline for the ostensibly better located drain plug, the paddle holder and narrower/shorter dimensions which I imagine will render it somewhat more manoeuvrable than my current vessel.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

TBH it's ok. But like the Riber 420 the hull chamber is covered and sealed in so there's always going to be some drops of water trapped. Nevertheless, with the Story I've found it works ok. When you've drained it just poke a microfiber towel around at the bottom end. Anything left is negligible 👍

[@TubeDupe]

It's up to 784 quid now!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yup, they do fluctuate...

[@luiseschillerl3978]

bought it too. however , the pump doesnt show any bar? did u have problems with the pump?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

No problems at all, the pump has both bar and psi on it.

[@luiseschillerl3978]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner ah, lucky you :) mine seems to be broken then. will contact the seller :) cant wait to try it out on the water . will try without bar indicator.. and hope I wont pump too much. how stable did you u think it is? is it your fav kajak now? ;)

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@luiseschillerl3978 It does feel more rocky on the water than my others. But it's handled a windy, wavey water paddle on Coniston Water and handles motor boat wakes ok. I have videos of these. Don't used the booster seat. That adds to the rocky feel. If you need cushioning check out my recent video on seat comfort. At the moment, yes it is my favourite 😁👍

[@luiseschillerl3978]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner great, thanks so much. I already threw the booster seat out. won't need it . will watch video of motor boat waves now :)

[@luiseschillerl3978]

I pumped further on today... and gauge on pump shows something now :)

[@marekzaba]

Hi. I have Story 2 person kayak. Thinking about adding some d-ring straps to move the seat more to the centre to improve solo kayaking. How do You think? It's the good idea?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I can't see why it wouldn't work 👍

[@kevinharding2099]

I am considering purchasing a Sea Eagle 393L which looks very similar to this Story kayak. I will be using this kayak in sheltered waters along the coast of Maine. Is it sea worthy enough? How does it respond to chop and wind? Thanks.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I have no experience of that kayak on anything other than flat water so I can't help you I'm afraid

[@Miserableplace]

I'm just starting out. I want a two person inflatable kayak for me and my 🐕 beagle. No idea what to buy. I could stretch my budget for this. Can't decide. Maybe the more stable flat bottoms are better cos my dog is crazy restless. I've been looking at the intex explorer or the itiwit .

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Hi Rainy ☺️ Merry Christmas ⛄ If your budget will stretch to this and you want something more stable, a Gumotex is probably your best option. They're so damn robust, plus single skinned so easier to look after. The Twist is the lower priced one and there are several videos on my channel with mine 👍😁

[@Miserableplace]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner Thanks for your reply :) I'll look into it. Happy New Year!

[@bartden9668]

How do you position the seat ? Have you tried putting it a bit more forward or more in the back and does that have an outcome on the stability, because I think these kayaks are not the most stable things to 'handle'. (I'm a beginner, yet the 'ride' went pretty good and I stayd dry).

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I keep the seat where the D-rings are, more in the middle I guess. I think the most important thing regarding stability is not to use the booster.

[@Zubareffstream111]

One question regarding the wheels is have you carried it on your back like a rucksack and if so do the wheels dig in to your lower back at all. It looks like they're angled in such a way to keep them from contact. I sold the Riber today and will probablly get the the 2 person hybrid from Story as soon as its' back in stock.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I have carried it on my back although not far. I can't say I recall the wheels digging in. I think they hang below your back anyway.

[@Alfahippie]

Is a normal size paddle ok for this story kayak, or should it be a bit wider than what you would use in a normal kayak to not hit the sides of it?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I prefer a longer paddle in an inflatables. You can use a shorter one but you'll splash water onto you and into the boat 👍

[@artsy38]

Hello , Do u know were I could get a replacement skeg , lost it earlier ? Contacting euroskate but was wondering if they are all standard or different sizes ... Thanks

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I'm sorry, I've no idea 😬

[@mariazervas4126]

Hi I just received this kayak after seeing the rucksack case with wheels being female and 5'1" But the one they have sent does not have this 'carrying system'! do you have any advice. The out side 'wrap' has quite bad mildew stains on it, any advice. Thank you Maria

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I don't work for them. All I can suggest is you contact them and complain.

[@ihengrave]

Hi, thanks for this very informativ video! I am wondering if one can ride the Story division for 2 person with on ly one person? do you know is the seat is adjustable in this way? thanks!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

You're very welcome. I have a Riber 420 and the seat can be positioned in the middle. Whilst I don't know about the Story 2 person I'm lead to believe you can do the same.

[@timmiller4979]

Can u help me purchase a story kayak in the USA. Having problems getting a link for this type of purchase. Thank u Tim

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I'm not sure how I can help other than by recommending you contact Euroskateshop online...

[@sambailey4999]

Great video, thanks! I am 6foot4. Do you think the foot strap would extend enough?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I'm glad you liked it. Whilst you tower above me 😂 I'm 5'10, it's worth bearing in mind that the seat can also be set further back i.e. you can set it closer to the back d-rings by adjusting the straps. With that and the footrest adjustment I reckon you'd be ok. But bear in mind, I'm estimating 👍😁

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

Looking at the new versions/colors of the Story kayak, I’m curious which size you have? The 325 or the 350 cm?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

In all honesty I couldn't tell you. All I do know is there is a lot of room front and back when I'm in it. It's not a lot shorter than my 2 person Riber 420 so if I had to guess I'd err on the longer side at 350.

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

Thank you for the info, that gives a better idea which one to get. I also went for the 350cm version as it really looks great on your video. By the way, I don’t know if anybody already mentioned it in the comments or told you in the mean time; the double sides velcro in combination with the 2 straps is for double safety when the peddle is strapped on the side of the kayak. I have the same safety on my kite to keep the tube closed.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@jeroenscheffe5730 that's good to know, thank you 😁👍

[@goesbysteve]

Thanks for the review do you think drop stitch kayaks can be paddles with a Canadian canoe single bladed paddle? My right arm is now paralysed and looking fir a new hobby.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

You're very welcome. That's a very good question and I think it's probably possible. In this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4auf5aIZpKCY8k my friend and I are tandem paddling using single bladed paddles but on a larger DS kayak. I do the j-stroke quite a lot controlling the direction as I'm the stronger paddler. When I've tried it on my own having my friend not paddle I can't seem to keep it totally straight. However I'm not the most experienced and maybe his weight in the front makes it harder. I've never tried single paddling in this particular kayak. I think I'd need to be further been in it and I'm not sure how I'd do that.

[@goesbysteve]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner thanks for the honest reply. I have single paddled a 16’ hard shell grp canoe and that was ok. I’m not the most experienced either. I would mostly be solo abs getting a hard shell canoe off a car roof would be next to impossible for me. I’m aware it would be a compromise do use an inflatable and my headway would be be less efficient but that’s ok. I think I need to find somewhere that hires them or a centre that sells them and has facilities to try out. Even £600 is a lot to spend with such a big unknown.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I think that's a good idea. Thinking about it, the Story kayak, whilst stable is still more rocky than any of my others. It could feel odd/unnerving at first single paddle paddling. But yeah, I reckon a test run is a good idea :)

[@mytransitselfbuildcamper1496]

The price is over £700 now

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Keep an eye on it. It'll likely drop again before too long. Since I bought mine the prices have been up and down numerous times.

[@evthornton2448]

Hi how long does it take to dry and is it easy to dry? Thanks

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

It's a doozy 👍 Drain it out using the drain plug. Dry off with a microfibre towel (see my microfibre towel video for how to pick a good one!) Dry into the cracks and creases and pack away. Takes about 5 to 10 mins. Less if you've air dried for a while.

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

Hi there, nice video and review of the Story Kayak. What is your experience with the Story kayak losing its pressure over time? With other words, how many days will the kayak keeps its pressure of 10psi before you have to get it back to the right pressure again? Thank you in advance for your reply. Best regards, Jeroen

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I'm glad you like the review. I have no reason to keep the boat inflated for days on end so I'm afraid I can't answer your question. All I can say is I have no deflation issues with it when in use, which seems to me to be the most important aspect.

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

Goodmorning, thank you for your reply. As I’m planning a multiple day trip, I’m wondering how good the quality of the Story kayak is regarding the air tightness, thats why I have this question.

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

And I have experience with iSUP’s that tends to deflate a couple of PSI over a short period of only 1-2 days

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Ah I see. Yes that makes sense 👍😁 Thanks for clarifying.

[@jeroenscheffe5730]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner Yes, since it is an inflatable I was wondering if the quality is good enough that it holds pressure for longer trips. I thought you maybe already would have tested this as you told in your review that you were going to use it for summer camping trips.

[@geoffknight7322]

Hi, nice review, I’ve also watched your lakes trip, looked great. I have an Aqua Marina drop stitch and a Sea Eagle 370, the Aqua is very similar to the Story, have you tried to get back in the boat from a capsize yet, I have done it on the sea eagle which is very stable but not the AM which is a bit more twitchy as yet

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Thankfully the only time I've ever capsized was in the sea and it was relatively shallow at the time. I'm not sure if you've seen this video, it is long but the under bridge clip is worth watching kzbin.info/www/bejne/p567gWiviq2rh8k I almost went over but was able to stabilise it.

[@geoffknight7322]

Thanks, under the bridge was a close one! I need to get out and practice re entering, once I know I can I’ll,be a lot more confident in the boat.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Hmm maybe I'll give that a go too 😁

[@geoffknight7322]

Now’s the time to do it whilst the waters warm!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@geoffknight7322 Haha you raise a fair point :D

[@joekelly9369]

So down the line what you thinking

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

It's still my favourite out of all my boats 👍😁

[@martkt10]

Are the patches self adhesive ? Just one question , how does it float if one of the sections got a hole in it , as in if you barely inflated one section could you limp home ?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

No... And given the pressure - 8psi, you'd definitely need something strong :)

[@geofffskrivener229]

Has anyone any ideas on how to stain or paint over the huge tacky 'STORY' texts on the sides? It's not a cool look! I tried an indelible marker pen in a small area, but it ran. The number of logos reaches a comical level. I think I counted 16 'STORY' logos on this product. The worst thing is that every buyer is forced to pay extra for the product to be devalued with all this annoying marketing. Probably around £40 added to the price? The 4 expensive 'STORY' embroidered covers on the carry handle covers can at least be removed & thrown away. They just add bulk. They get damp & take a long time to dry out, so probably would create mildew smells. For me, they add no function other than as a base to slap on 4 more annoying STORY logos.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Whilst it's not exactly what you're looking for, I have been toying with the idea of having some large PVC ads made advertising my YT channel and glueing them on.

[@geoffsoperss6718]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner A channel logo seems a neat idea. If you find material for such large glue-on repair patches, I might follow you with plain ones. Might also try thin long panels in the paddle-rub area.

[@themiddleagedadventurer5176]

can't find the Riber for sale anywhere, any help appreciated.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Someone has told me that they've actually stopped making them! However you might drop on lucky if you contact Riber direct.

[@grahamharkness5744]

Can the seat be adjusted? as in moved nearer the back?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Hi Graham 😊 the D rings are fixed in place so the only way you could move the seat position would be to release the front straps as far as they'll go and tighten the back ones. Does that make sense?

[@grahamharkness5744]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner thankyou very much, I really liked your review for this inflatable kayak and i have bought one - pending delivery- for my daughter who is not as tall as me lol. i have an itiwit 2 person x100 so it will be good to see how one compares to the other. My daughter loves kayaking so now i need to try and talk her into camping and hopefully mix the 2 together. Great video and i have since subscribed. Keep them coming plz.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@grahamharkness5744 thanks so much for your kind words Graham. I'm sure you and your daughter will have a lot of fun on the water together, and she'll likely be zooming ahead of you before too long 😁

[@TheKayakCrew]

Thanks. I was going to order one but the price went up. Have you tried it on the water? If so, how stable was it?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yup I've had it on the water. It's not as stable as the totally flat bottomed Riber nevertheless I didn't feel it was unstable. I hope that makes sense. I boarded from the riverside with the boat a good foot to 2 foot beneath me and I felt safer doing that than I would have in a softer inflatable. I should also add it was tied up to the bank via the front and back carry handles. On the water it rocks a little, more than some softer ones, but not to the point of being worried about it tipping 👍 As I said in the vid, if you fancy one of these it might be worth monitoring the price 😁

[@TheKayakCrew]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner Thanks, from what I can gather these drop stitch kayaks are fairly generic, albeit there are some differences in size, hull shape, colours, etc. To date I have the past few years only used a good quality non drop stitch inflatable which is stable but not very fast and tends to catch the wind if it's gusting the wrong way. It looks as if you are a mainly a river kayaker, do you think the Story kayak would be Ok for the sea if it got choppy? I do some river kayaking but mostly sea kayaking, although we do not go out if it's too rough.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Yeah, they all have a tendency to catch the wind a bit - high sides and all that 😏 I feel that the Story would be relatively ok on the sea. It's not recommended in the manual but I guess that's because it doesn't have a fully enclosed splash guard i.e. it's open topped so there is a greater risk of it flooding.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

If you're interested I've uploaded my first outing... kzbin.info/www/bejne/maSbgJSrr9lpftU

[@pawelwiesyk]

Hey. What would you say about quality of this kayak after using it for 2 years? Is it worth spending 350 euro?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

If it's on offer at £350 it's a bargain!

[@pawelwiesyk]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner Have you had any problems with this kayak? Seam/glueing issues?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@pawelwiesyk none at all 👍

[@pawelwiesyk]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner Thanks. I just bought it for 310£ from EUskateshop.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Bargain!

[@rachaelheede2104]

Hi Karl, I had no problems inflating (and deflating by pressing valve) kayak using original pump. The Story kayak, in summer deflated fairly quickly. However, recently canal water has been fairly cold and taking an eternity to deflate fully. Original pump fairly basic and does NOT have deflate setting. Would a pump that has a deflate side solve the problem? (ended up putting kayak in boot unbagged the other day ( bit of a palava). If so, Decathlon sell a pump at £19.99 that inflates and deflates - or is that one too basic. Thanks, Hannah.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Hi Rachael I've not had any problems deflating it either, did I give the impression I had? I haven't mentioned anything like that in this video. And the pump does have a deflate option. There's a outlet on the base, footplate... Well, there is on mine. It's a good boat and so far the only issues I've had with it is the unnecessary and unstable feeling booster seat, the splash guard riser that snapped and yes, the crappy paddle. But those are all attachments and fittings and not the boat itself 😊

[@rachaelheede2104]

No Karl, it's just me. Overall happy with kayak , just have not been using pump to deflate. Maybe I have different pump with no deflate option or I can't fathom out how to attach tube to foot base ( does it look like a black disk with holes in it?) Sorry to be a chump.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@rachaelheede2104 haha you're not a chump. Cards on the table I thought the same as you regarding the pump deflate. Oddly enough I've had the pump out today topping up after testing out some rechargable electric pumps. It was only today I noticed the bit on the footplate has a thread on it and I'm only assuming it's the deflate option.

[@rachaelheede2104]

Hi Karl, your assumption was correct! The tubing does attach to circle threads at base of pump and this this becomes the deflation setting. I've just inflated and deflated the Story using original pump. No more fights trying to get kayak into bag.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@rachaelheede2104 excellent, well thanks for letting me know Rachael 👍😁

[@rachaelheede2104]

Hi Karl, please help. I have just received Story Kayak today. Initially thought pump gauge was not working as needle not moving. However if I put hand (with padded leather glove for better seal) over opening where inflation tube goes, needle does move. Basically I am scared I will burst kayak. Is kayak meant to have some give or is it meant to be rock solid. Kayak feels fairly firm at low gauge level but do I keep using pump and needle will eventually move or am I right to be cautious?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

It should be pretty solid, and yes it can be daunting pushing those last few pumps in. Once the needle gets past 1 to 2 PSI it only takes a few more pumps to get it to 7 PSI.

[@rachaelheede2104]

I’m replying to my own question. If you think pump gauge is not working, check it as described. If it is working, it does take a long time for gauge to register pressure. Even if you think kayak is firm, it goes a lot firmer (I.e. no creases.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@rachaelheede2104 that's right. I did count the number of full pumps it takes to fill the sides. I think it was about 35 (up and down is 1). The base was about 50.

[@luiseschillerl3978]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner having the same problem . My needle doesnt move. How many pumps in will it show something?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@luiseschillerl3978 I haven't counted that, I only counted roughly how many it takes to fill it.

[@pedrowinstan]

How tippy do you find the Story?

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I find it rockier than wide chambered inflatables and even the Riber 420 drop stitch. But then again I've only tried it with the booster cushion, plus an inflatable I use for comfort on top. I need to try it without the booster.

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

I did find myself in this position facebook.com/watch/?v=760954054844344 😂 Just so you know, despite appearances it didn't go over 🤪

[@pedrowinstan]

@@MoreThanJustaCleaner 😬 I'm finding it challenging getting out onto a dock. Would appreciate some hints on the best technique

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@pedrowinstan hands on either side of the boat, or if it's not tied up one on the outside of the boat and one on the dock/port, move one leg then the other keeping the weight central in the craft, so that you're crouched on your toes and then slowly lift and swing your backside out into the dock. With a bit of practice you get a feel for it. But don't ever expect to look graceful 😂

[@pedrowinstan]

@@MoreThanJustaCleanerthe Thanks. I found the smallest Story nearly flipped when trying this. Needs lots of practice I guess

[@JoeKeaveney]

And now they're £780!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Aye, you've got to keep an eye on them 😁👍

[@ribinrobin8925]

Just got the highline version for £430!

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

@@ribinrobin8925 bargain 😁👍

[@joekelly9369]

Yeah more a hater than a fan ,, But not being able to get a decent kayak before august isnt good.. i thought id look at this as it looks like a decent slimmed down version of the crap sevylors that blew all over creation. I like the canoe like low volume of the tubes .. how does it handle for a complete novice .im trusting my daughters life to one of these ( probably )

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

It handles great. If you check out my other vids you'll find a speed test with this one against a couple of others. I've also been out a lot in it. If you sit too high it does feel unstable, but for me this is the best one I own 👍

[@gloppy101]

That's a sorry looking hull 4:38

[@MoreThanJustaCleaner]

Haha yeah it doesn't look great however the chambers weren't fully inflated 😁👍