Gorgeous little boat. Now if I could only figure out how to install teflon landing pads at these sitesyou know what that first scratch is like!! Tandem kayak - the perfect two-person paddling experience. The Northstar excels in stability; it's weight and durability are a real plus in a wilderness setting. We are also working diligently to answer your questions and have recently added additional resources in this area, but our response time may be longer than typical due to the volume of contacts we are receiving. Prior to this kayak we borrowed an Easy Rider Sea Eagle and took this on several trips. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. In places like Resurrection Bay and Ketchimack Bay the ability of an expedition kayak to handle rough seas is a life and death issue; you can leave on glassy water and have 4 foot quare waves a little bit later with just a little wind blowing against a tidal current. A versatile, lightweight, and reliable paddle that delivered a strong performance across all metrics. Here are answers to some of the most common online questions about Current Designs kayaks. Beautiful, fast, comfortable boat. The Current Designs lineup is divided into five categories: Recreational, Transitional, North American-style touring, British-style touring and Danish-style touring. $425 $500. Wilderness Systems is another widely-known North American kayak company. It doesn't seem to have aged much at all and appears to be nearly indestructible considering how much abuse we put it through. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Inspiring paddlesports participation through quality coverage of the people, places, adventures, boats and gear, trends and events that make paddling something you'll do for the rest of your life. I would definitely purchase another of these if I could find one. You either swear by 'emor swear at 'em! We have not experienced any heat related warping of the plastic hull, and based on other reviewers comments have taken great care to ensure our Northstar is well supported in transit & storage. 2) I removed the seat it came with, and sit on a foam pad, which lowers my center of gravity. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Paddling Magazine is your best online resource for Current Designs kayak reviews. It is light: 38 lbs. We are used to sharing close quarters and working as a team in a multi-axis environment. I would take more weight if it would stop the oil canning. Alex Matthews is the author of many magazine articles and several books about sea kayaking. The kayak did have a huge amount of storage but it made you pay for it. another year with the Hawk has passed, I really got a chance to show her speed in the great river race on the norht river in mass. Has handled anything we've thrown at it, and a far better paddle than the other doubles we own (manitou II, Horizon, Condor). Another benefit of buying an established brand like Current Designs is the ability to source replacement parts. These kayaks are designed for extended trips in coastal waters; they are high-capacity and comfortable for long days in the seat. They now exclusively make polyethylene boats, although some discontinued fiberglass touring kayaks can be found used. post. You could call it a Romany for the West Coast., [ Paddling Buyers Guide: See all Wilderness Systems boats ]. This is true both above and below the waterline, and it makes the Arctic Hawk one of the best looking boats out there. Sporty sea kayak adopts the best elements of British and North Americandesign, The new Tempest 170 from Wilderness Systems is the brainchild of Steve Sherre of Alder Creek Canoe and Kayak in Oregon, shaper/designer Bob McDonough and the Wilderness Systems design team. Current Designs kayaks are made in the USA by Wenonah. Kevlar is three times as expensive as Polyethylene! I've noticed a few slight hardware quality problems on Wilderness System boats, but not enough to compromise their overall design quality, safety and fun. Also, the extra weight makes it necessary to add an extra weight in the bow for proper balance. There is no way one person can get it on a car top without something like hully rollers. The Kevlar and glass boats will no doubt address almost all of my concerns. It is very fast and has exiptional tracking. Rodgers makes several variations on this design. The Sealution is the first sea kayak I have ever owned even though I had and have the use of two Aquaterra Chinooks through our club. It's meant to take weight. quad cities for sale "kayak" - craigslist. This paddle will be suitable for a wide variety of paddlers due to its adjustable and versatile design. As a medium-sized business, when so many others are struggling, we are grateful that our primary challenge is to do more rather than less, and we thank you for your interest and support. The Hawk is 22" wide and 17'11" long. I'm 5'9 155# and it's a good fit -- most of the bigger cockpits swallow me and I can't quickly lean Check out a few other kayak recommendations below or explore all kayaks to find the perfect one for you! I took it out on the water today for trials. Simple the hull has too much rocker to track in a quartering sea. I LOVE THIS BOAT!!! Her hull is lower than any of the other 9 kayak we've owned over the past 15 years. Evolutions of these early Current Designs kayaks include the Solstice and Equinox, two classic designs that are still available today. I have owned this boat for about 8 years, though I am still pretty much a beginner (it was my first). This is an SUV of Kayaks, don't get it if you want a roadster. Our combined weight with day paddling equipment is about 320 pounds. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. It's classified 'Light Touring' due to storage, (just a back hatch). Unlike many of the paddles we tested ( which commonly use a snap button system to join the two pieces), we did not feel any 'play' in the shaft even when the paddle was put under stress. Likewise, the shallow V hulls and rounded chines (where the sides of the kayak meet the bottom) provide stability in rough waters but will feel less stable than North American-style or Transitional kayaks for beginner paddlers. I kept up with him fine until the wind picked up and some tight 3' waves made things more interesting. for a plastic ocean touring kayak isn't unreasonable We have owned our Northstar for 3 and have been kayakers in singles for about 8 years. Hillsboro, MO. daytrip, fun, sea kayak that is capable of handling the normal conditions found in the open sea. The downside to this is you expend more energy moving through the rough stuff. I had to resort to sweep strokes, rudders, edging, etc to keep on course in a stern quartering 25kt wind with windblown waves at 1-2 feet. Guess that I like the "Greenland" looks - so this is not taking away from an OI, believe me. Kayaks are a very specialized craft, with deliberate design tweaks for different intended uses. But that is easly fixed by adding glass tape to the underside of the deck. The fact that you can alter the length of this paddle adds value to the paddle, as some families will find they can purchase one Pungo paddle rather than having multiple paddles for different size family members. Also Mark rogers wouldn't produce a boat that weathercocked that bad. We are yet to do an over night but have used it on several trips around Porland Oregon and it has performed well. It does, in my experience, weathercock in stiff winds when empty. If youre looking for an impeccably finished, thoughtfully designed single or tandem touring, recreational or transitional kayak, theres likely a Current Designs thats a great match for you. Have taken it everywhere without a worry. The Capella is much more lively but it is tippy and my wife hates it. The kayak tracks nicely and turns on a dime. My wife and I are moderately-experienced day-kayakers, having paddled singles and tandems on lakes, on Long Island Sound as well as on the lower Hudson. It is lighter though and I love the hull design! (moderate initial). Just for Members: 20% Off Select Bike Racks. Current Designs kayaks meet a range of needs for paddlers of all sizes. I have owned other boats and have paddled many others. It ride pretty high in the water. I love this boat! Be the first to know about new products, team news and events. Great boat for smaller paddlers. With a high floatation pfd I find that I do not end up completely upside down, a fact that makes the renter and roll easier. I was able to have a chance to paddle this boat in Sydney Harbor and was rather unimpressed with the performance. Wilderness Systems Tempest 180 Fiberglass Kayak with Skeg 0.0 0 Reviews Item #736649 Red/White This product is not available. Current Designs timeless designs and robust construction make shopping for a used Current Designs kayak a great option. Current Designs recreational kayaks are perfect for beginners and shorter trips on slow-moving rivers, small lakes and other sheltered waters where nimble handling wins over speed and storage capacity. Still LOVE this boat, though! It doesn't need a rudder or skeg though-and a skeg would take a chunk out of the already-low storage volume. Check out the Sirocco and Squamish, two of Current Designs British-style touring kayaks. Although the wrapped finish of the blades is prone to show wear and tear over time, their actual construction is robust and will stand regular heavy use. It tracks very well, the seats are extremely comfortable and it is an all-around great kayak. While another reviewer has dubbed tandems 'divorce boats', my wife and I have found them very copasetic. This is better than being upside down but I suspect that an advanced paddler would want a round chine boat with less secondary stability. Also note that WS used three glops of rubber/cement to secure the bottom to the hull, and none of them held so the seat slid side to side. Find manufacturers suggested retail prices (MSRP) of Current Designs kayaks on their website. I'll also walk you through the best kayak paddles for fishing so you'll hit the water ready. As far as plastic is concerned it does not flex as much as most comparable poly models. The low deck is great for me because I keep a very low stroke. Shop similar products Available right now Delta Kayaks Delta 12.10 Kayak (19) $1,495.00 Delta Kayaks Delta 14 Kayak (13) $1,995.00 Eddyline Fathom Kayak (3) $3,199.00 Delta Kayaks Delta 17 Kayak (6) $2,575.00 Kayaking is a great escape anytime, and especially now. $220. Before using this paddle, we were concerned that its performance might be compromised when the paddle is extended to its full length. Read Arctic Hawk Pro reviews or submit your own review to share with the paddling community. 1. It's ideal for beginners, or anyone looking for more steering capability in conditions. NADA 3. The speed issue may be an offshoot of the AH 40lb weight vs. the OI 55lb weight in glass. She quick in the water. Wilderness Systems Tarpon Kayak Paddle for Recreation/Touring | Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber Blades | Adjustable Carbon/Fiberglass Shaft (220-240cm) Visit the Wilderness Systems Store 14 ratings -11% $35124 List Price: $394.99 FREE Returns Style: Carbon Fiber Blade Carbon Fiber Blade Fiberglass Blade my time was 1 hour 5 min 26 sec for a 6.5 mile course. We do mostly river & back-water kayaking in the sometimes breezy conditions of South Dakota. They have spacious cockpits for easy entry and exit. Finally, if you are ordering replacement parts, please review our Shipping Notice. [ Read more: Pimp Your RideKayak Personalization ]. However at my job as an instructor I find a thicker deck would be nice. no hidden. The comfort level is now 100% perfect for me with about 8 hours of work. I am having a little issue with getting used to hard chines vs. soft though, with my "no edge" or "all the way edged" reality that results from this design. I find the seat kinda uncomfy, and as a result I sit with a paddle float under my knees.The initial stability when the boat is empty is pretty low, so it's not great for photography, or fishing, or playing yahtzee on deck, or whatever. I paddle a Kevlar Sealution, and love its predictability and seaworthiness, particularly with a load in heavy weather. Inspiring paddlesports participation through quality coverage of the people, places, adventures, boats and gear, trends and events that make paddling something you'll do for the rest of your life. The boat also sagged so much that it was bouncing off the roof of my new truck. Rounding out the fit are contoured, padded thigh braces that can be easily unscrewed and moved to match different body types. Our South Carolina factory is humming with activity, but we are mindful that we need to produce and deliver boats safely. The page also lists outfitters that offer rentals where you can try before you buy. Fiberglass or Aramid construction keeps these kayaks lightweight, and priced at the high end of Current Designs lineup. Aside from the fact that it is a hard shell boat and wide enough for the modern build, it is very like some historical Greenland boats. The hatches have remained dry on all trips we have gone out on thus far; it has excellent stability in rough waves; plenty of attach points & webbing to tie stuff on the top when heading out for a long trip; the rudder provides excellent response & control and is easily raised or lowered from the rear cockpit (I would recommend lubricating the pedal controls with a light grease on the slide mechanism for smoother operations); The Phase-3 seat is awesome you can adjust that puppy for a very comfortable seat and it breathes quite nicely even on the hottest days; being of polyethylene construction it is virtually indestructible for most river hazards (we can run over rocks, branches, and whatever is just below the water without fear of cracks or tears); bottom line this kayak is joy to own and has provided hours of kayaking pleasure. Garage or indoor storage is best, ideally climate-controlled to negate seasonal temperature fluctuations and prevent moisture. Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association, The Great Canadian Kayak Challenge & Festival, Best Kayak Brands For Fishing, Sea Kayaking, Touring & More, Boat Review: Solstice GT Titan by Current Designs, Boat Review: Current Designs Ignite Kayak, Boat Review: Current Designs Squall GTS Kayak, Touring Kayak Review: Current Designs Equinox GT, Expedition Kayak Review: Current Designs Infinity, Touring Kayak Review: Current Designs Stratus 18, 10 Reasons Kushiro Shitsugen National Park Is The Best Place To Canoe Trip In Japan, 7 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying A Kayak On Ebay. Wilderness Systems sit-inside kayaks are slightly more expensive, starting at around $1,000 USD. Ours has handled everything from relatively tight rivers and streams to very aggressive open water with equal success, comfort and confidence. It is really built for the slender paddler. So, I got damp at first with paddle water run off. The hull is considerably deeper than a Brit boat. I have paddled a Sealution II poly through the 1000 Islands on the St Lawrence River for 4 seasons. When another kayaker is struggling, you might need to give them a tow. If stored correctly and well-cared for, a kayak will hold much of its value (this is especially true of hard-to-find, discontinued models). Coaming - The rear coaming makes putting a sprayskirt on a real chore as there is very little clearance, hence don't use skirts with good sized bungees as they won't go on. I've fit 7 days of stuff in it, but its not ideal unless you're ready to saw the handle off your toothbrush. Learn basic steps for shore and dock put-ins and take-outs. This is a ROYAL PAIN IN THE A _ _!!! Kevlar was a fluke and purchased only because I got a great deal on it. Theres no real downside to buying an older kayak that has been well cared for. The downside is often poor comfort, sometimes less than stellar workmanship and heavy weight. Despite the fact that I am stupid enough to transport it upside down on foam racks in the blazing sun it has never lost its shape. The Wilderness Systems Pungo Kayak Paddle is lightweight and sturdy. North American-style kayaks are more forgiving than both the British and Danish styles. When looking at a used plastic kayak, also check the bottom (hull) of the kayak for oil-canningwavy dents that indicate a sun-damaged kayak; these deformities reduce the kayaks paddling efficiency and performance. The flip side of this is that the kayak will always return to its correct shape when it cools down! And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. Our boat's rotomolded plastic construction can get pretty soft while being transported in the hot sun. Finally, remember that online research will only get you so far. Bummer! I have had my Sealution (poly) for several years now. for sale. By dropping 20 pounds off the boat, it handles beautifullyquicker turning and very light on the water. The purchase of two new Northstars on different continents is a tangible indication of our respect for this craft. I am sure it can be turned quick but we were never able to do so. quad cities. At a whopping 95lbs and 18+ feet in length I can see why. During one of these episodes the Northstar slammed into my other kayak so hard it broke the rudder off my other boat. Read Sealution Pro reviews or submit your own review to share with the paddling community. Over all this is the top boat in my top five list, and it makes any instructor look good in front of their students. I do mostly river paddling in FL. The perfect kayak to fit your lifestyle awaits. New and used Kayaks for sale in Labadie, Missouri on Facebook Marketplace. If you are searching for a particular model, size, or color, you may not find it immediately. It was cured after paddling with Maligiaq Padilla at the 1998 Delmarva Paddlers Retreat, and copying everything he did. We feel very safe in this kayak in all conditions. It's my 4th kayak (you can never have too many?) I had seen one at a kayak store loved the look. I traded in a Dagger Sitka in Kevlar (too big and high volume for day tours) for this onethis boat is responsive and quick, tracks beautifully, is as sexy a boat as you will ever see on the wateryou can make this one dance! At 5'2" and 110lbs., the Tschaika fit me with just a bit of adaptation. Current Designs kayaks are widely available across North America at specialty outdoor and paddlesports shops. I couldn't count the number of lobster bouys that I collided with, because I couldn't see past the brim of my wife's hat! I bought a plastic Sealution II last summer and am in it almost constantly. Here, you will find specifications, prices, reviews and where to buy Current Designs kayaks. We so like the kayak that we bought a new one in the UK, where we live. Once in the water, the Northstar handles exceptionally well. This is a long-term investment, and the savings of buying used are likely alreadysignificant. The Deck fittings arent (or werent at that time) recessed. That came out to taking long, slow strokes, instead of the short, choppy ones we're taught here. My wife and I have owned a Northstar in the USA for two years, and have traveled about 600 miles in it during two winters in the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades and the Keys. Follow the links below to filter the kayaks by type. $394.99 $ 394. After the glass work was all done, it could easily be a 10 depending on your wants. I have own this boat for many years and would not be alive to write this article if it wasn't awesome I've been seven miles off the coast of Maine lake Champlain original Greenland design still the best with a heavy camping load. The only truly light-weight tandem that I'm aware of is the Bullitt by West Side Boat Shop, which at 45 poulds is less than half the price of the Northstar (but its quite a bit more expensive). My wife is very comfortable in this boat and has never even nearly come out. Unless you have a trailer, are both Crossfit champions in a long term relationship, or live on the water where carrying it any distance is not an issue you are likely to have problems getting it around. I have heard that you can negate this behavior with weight in the stern of the boat, but would rather put a skeg on it. I find it hard to fish from and it feels tippy in small breaking waves. After settling on a style and model of kayak, what material should you go for? We have put a bit of effort into our teamwork, and can now paddle synchronously without much attention, and for long distances. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. The Tchaika Pro is a kayak brought to you by Wilderness Systems. And one look at the size of the boat, and one lookf the hatches tell you its a tough boat for long trips. I would suggest this kayak to someone looking for a double at a reasonable price. Wish it was my New England boat,as I have a truck there. It weighs a ton. I purchased a new Northstar about a month ago. It seems like I've paddled it in almost every bit of water over 7" deep in Central Florida. This is an excellent long expedition boat in terms of gear storage and it's big, long and fast enough that even with some weight or cargo on board you can still make good time. Having owned Mad River boats with high quality the merger with Wilderness Systems is not encouraging. It was, with camping gear, pretty heavily-laden, but still performed well. Despite being suitable for beginner kayakers, the performance of this paddle is not compromised and would suit expert paddlers as well. The front hatch seems completely watertight. The Tempest tends to be a bit unsteady in transition from edge to edge, but once on edge its stable and cranks nice tightturns. I'm small (5'2") yet I am able to carry it on my shoulder, even though it weighs 40#+. The hull doesn't have enough rigidity so it will collapse where the racks contact the boat. If a button could be pressed and it folded up for transport I'd give it an 11, since it can't 10/10. no speedster, but I'll bet the composite version improves performance. Wrapping the boat in two white bed sheets sewn end to end looks a little strange, but it sure solves the problem. (Sorry Harry I am sure I misspelled your name). The Sealution Pro is a kayak brought to you by Wilderness Systems. The Hawk carves turns nicely, as would be expected with hard chines. This mechanism is common in adjustable SUP paddles, but we have not seen it used in 2-piece kayak paddles. Well explain how tow belts work and basic towing techniques. for your first email from REI. Overall I am quite impressed with it. Perhaps could benefit from a skeg or fixed rudder. It doesn't quite make it into the ultralight category, unlike the full-carbon version that is also available from Wilderness Systems. The Northstar is an excellent kayak for our purpose, i.e. I tried out multiple boats and this one was the certainly the tops. When you find one that matches your needs perfectly, remember, its always best to try before you buy.. Find great deals and sell your items for free. I use Thule racks and pads. Current Designs focuses on sit-inside touring kayaks. Repairs are also straightforward; if youre not confident tackling a repair yourself, its relatively easy to find a professional who can make the fix. My boat has a rudder, but I've only flipped it down a couple times, for a few minutes each, just to "try it". Ninety-five lbs. Fine American kayak manufacturers exist throughout the U.S., and kayaks are made by companies such as Perception, Wilderness Systems, Dagger Kayaks, Old Town Canoes + Kayaks, Otter, Osprey, and Jackson Kayak. My wife and I are often the fastest boat in our group, especially on long legs where staggered hydration breaks give any double a strong advantage. Reassuring stability and well made kayak! The boat was purchased for "workouts" mainly, not racing or touring. By flipping a simple lever on the center of the shaft, the two pieces of the paddle become adjustable, enabling the paddler to easily alter the length and feather of this paddle. Read Sealution Pro reviews or submit your own review to share with the paddling community. The inner layer is made of meshed polyester while the two outer layers are made from PVC. Love the extra room behind the seat for stuffing a jacket & my platypus water bottle. The thigh braces had to be padded a little. One of them, the somewhat smaller Sparrow Hawk, is also licensed to Wilderness Systems and would be a better choice for a smaller paddler. It turns well and tracks well, although I do admit to using the rudder, especially in a current or a cross wind. Granted my Capella is kept at the pool all winter; but the Sealution 2 gives a great photograph platform and you can have a sandwich with out holding onto your paddle. I continue to find it fun and exciting, and am nowhere near its equal yet. It is amazingly fast, tracks like a arrow and stable, turns on a dime. (I backpack, so hopefully my downsized stuff may fit. Great boat. Wow!! We use this kayak in true wilderness areas in Alaska. When I bought it, I tried a ton of different boats, and then I sat in this one, paddled it around,and didn't want to get out of it. Kudos also to my faithful Lightning brand paddle. Tracks poorly, has good speed. Known for tournament-winning fishing kayaks, wilderness system now offers premium paddles for anglers. Tell us more about your interests so we can deliver you the most relevant paddling information. All in all, the boat performs well though I haven't had a chance to take it out in rougher conditions, so will have to see if it is the "nightmare" that a previous reviewer mentioned in rear quartering seas. My only complaint, it is sluggish running downwind, but maybe that's me. I love the low weight, incredible looks, high speed performance, and good stability. Aramid composites are the ultralights of the kayak world. by Wilderness Systems MSRP $1,189.00 Details Arctic Hawk Pro Description The Arctic Hawk Pro is a kayak brought to you by Wilderness Systems . And, compared to a single, it's incredibly spacious, with ample room for both seating and gear. I've used it in twisty Florida wilderness rivers and rough waves in open water. them. They are more efficient, faster and have better tracking (making them easier to paddle straight) than Recreational or Transitional models. Every kayak trips starts with a launch and ends with a landing. Current Designs also offers more high-end material options, including fiberglass and Aramid composites. Almost rolls itself. The low-profile, backband seating makes it easier for experienced paddlers to perform a roll in these boats. 7 Reasons to Consider Kayaking Events This Year, Best Paddling Destinations For Unforgettable Wildlife Viewing, Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences. I would recommend this boat only for strong paddlers. 2. We picked up our old Northstar from a neighbor that was moving out of state and did not have the ability to bring the boat with him. It's a beast to move, even in two people. Fast, light, maneuverable, tracks well, easy to roll. 7 Reasons to Consider Kayaking Events This Year, Best Paddling Destinations For Unforgettable Wildlife Viewing, Kayaking the Mouth of the Columbia River's Tidal Influences. I intially purchased a Sealution II three years ago. The ALPHA Angler series features a powerful and aggressive blade designed to deliver higher speeds on the water. (1st time) I also rerigged the deck bungees "Greenland style", added carved caribou toggles, protective deck tape, and other little niceties. We drove cross country and this problem really got worse when the air temperature rose above 80 degrees F. The hull collapsing caused numerous problems because once the hull sags the boat is no longer snug on the rack allowing it to move across the racks in cross winds and when semis pass on the interstate. C urrent Designs kayaks emerged from the wilderness of Vancouver Island in the late 1970s with stable, high-storage sea kayaks suited for multi-day coastal travel. The Wilderness System Pungo Glass is a quality performance paddle with the added benefit of being exceptionally easy to adjust. Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Specs Length: 17' 6" Width: 22" Depth: 14" Cockpit: 32" 14.5" Weight: 50 lbs Max Capacity: 110 lbs MSRP: $3,199 USD / $4,249 CAD (Kevlar) $2,699 USD / $3,499 CAD (Fibreglass) $1,399 USD (Polyethylene) [ Paddling Buyer's Guide: See all Wilderness Systems boats ] The Tempest 170 has the best of both worlds Although slightly lighter, full-carbon models are also significantly more expensive. and I can load mine on top of our truck by myself. There are cheaper paddles available, but the Pungo Glass offers quality performance and durability with the bonus of adjustability. Intermediate and advanced paddlers will find it has plenty of initial stability and tracks will on an even keel. Yuk. I LOVE IT. Old Town Castine 130 kayak. Weathercocks badly in a following wind. St Louis, MO. I have paddled the Daggers, Perceptions, Necky which make nice boats but I still prefer the poly Sealution over the other Necky poly's. I've paddled this boat for about 3 1/2 years and I love it for most of my paddling. The design limits deck spray remarkably well.

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