The Kayaks arrived today. We ordered two to test how they performed. First thing to note is that these do not come with paddles - both the Kayak and the Paddles are available from our store.
They do however come in a very compact box, with the Kayak, x2 seats, puncture repair kit, instruction manual, pressure gauge and a carry case. Took them out of the boxes - they come pre packed into the carry case ready for your trip - and put them in the back of the car, very much worth noting that the car these Kayaks went into was a Smart Car! With both two man Kayaks in the back of the Smart Car there was still plenty of room to use the rear view mirror.
On arrival at the launch site it was a simple case of tipping out the contents of the bag laying it out on the floor and following the instruction provided. We took a CYCLAIRE INFLATOR PUMP to pump up the Kayaks (and to test the pump also!) This was seriously under powered for the Kayaks size....something we found out pretty quick and after 40 minutes EACH pumping up the Kayaks we were worn out. (Checkout our blog on the Pump for more info on what is pros and cons are). For you guys who own your will be buying these Kayaks or similar we would recommend the DOUBLE ACTION HAND PUMP - this is far quicker and wont tire you out as much. The instruction manual states that you void the warranty if you use an electric pump, in all honesty unless you leave it unattended I don't think you would cause any harm if you used one - but of course at your own risk!
All pumped up and on the water - they handle really well and are perfect for making your way down or up river, these are not designed to go down the worlds most extreme rapids - so don't even go there! For a family or couple they are perfect. There are pockets inside the craft where you can put bits and bobs, but we would also recommend a dry bag to keep any valuable/electronic items in.
An excellent design, and they're surprisingly stable in the water, if anything they move better than a solid bodied Kayak.
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