Good video with a conclusion I agree with. Although your video is just a few days old as I write, I noticed you're using a pretty old Tucktec model. I own a 2024 Tuck, and the company has made some noticeable improvements, even as recently as this year. The weight has come down to 20 pounds, the foam bumpers on the cockpit have been removed with a permanent cover, the included seat and foot rest are really improved. As of 4/1/24, the Tucktec approaches the convenience of the Oru at nearly half the price. It still doesn't fold into it's own suitcase, but Tuck sells a carry bag separately, and with the foam bumpers gone, there's little to fall out.
There isn't a silver bullet for folding kayaks yet, it seems. But I hope these manufacturers are watching this video! Just saw that Tucktec has a 10 lb. kayak with an optional skeg. Wow! Also, so much depends on how one wants to use their kayak before making their final choice. Thank you for your in-depth review! I appreciate it! 👍
Yeah their 10lb one is made of the same material as Oru, that corrugated plastic. It's not designed as well though so I would think there is more chance for failure at a joint. It's new so time will tell though.
@@JayWandersOutyou can't buy your very old Tucktec for a long time so your comparison has very little validity for someone buying the much updated 2024 Tucktec which only weighs 20lbs and has a very comfortable seat and sturdy foot rest. Your 2020 Tucktec kayak kickstarter version is at least 4 upgrades out of date so this review is pointless as you can not buy one. I have a 2022 Tucktec which is improved over your old Tucktec and I also have a 2024 kayak that is vastly improved. The new 2024 Tucktec does not look cheap with no foam on the sides plus the side latches are inside and there is nothing sliding around. The 2024 is plenty rigid and they float.
Those black feet are protection for when in folded box mode. I agree the weak points can allow pin holes which allows water to enter the channels. I glued D rings onto the ORU to attach a sponge with a carabiner or a caddy for my water and sunscreen. Nice honest review, Jay.
Not sure why my original comment is gone. So, I'll try again. I think this is a great comparison video. But it's not entirely fair to compare a new Oru Lake to a Tucktec model that we haven't produced since 2020. Get a hold of us here at Tucktec. We will get you a new 2024 model Tucktec, our new 20lb hardshell version with all the latest upgrades, so you can give your viewers a fair and current comparison between the two. Get in touch! Pete General Manager Tucktec Folding Kayaks
i was not looking for a foldable but after this video and your reply im thinking i will get the new 2024 model tuck you mention and carry it aboard my 24ft sail boat
Your product is trash. Amazon sells a bonnlo 14 ft full drop stitch yak that is leagues ahead of your folding garbage. Oh, and it's 500$. You can't compete with your yak looking like glued together garbage from a landfill.
I have a Gen 1 (kcikstarter) boat and I agree, it is easy to buckle if you put a lot of weight in it. I hear the Gen 2/3 boats with the rotating latches and fold-inside sides are more robust.
I really like the oru's form factor but have they essential stopped innovating? I bought a 2025 tucktec and it's been small improvements year over year whereas, the oru seems to stay static. Or maybe they concentrate more on their higher end models.
I own an oru lake I bought used. I was surprised how large the "suitcase" actually is. Seems like the tucktec has a much smaller footprint when folded up. These are both boats for calm waters. Taking them out on windy days or when there's a lot of boat traffic won't end well. Neither one would handle water on the inside well. You can buy float bags for the oru (about $70), but that doesn't really solve the problem only makes it a little bit better. They both have 3 year warranties, which offers some reassurance. I've read that tucktec will honor their warranty if you experience an issue. Reading through the oru literature, you need to register it within 90 days or the 3 year warranty isn't applied. I don't know if they'd hold you to that, but seems a little sketchy. At the end of the day I want a boat that is easy to get into and out of, is very unlikely to sink, handles small waves and some wind, and doesn't take up a ton of space. Right now that has me leaning towards the inflatables- advanced elements, sea eagle, etc. They do weigh a little more- my inflatable is about 30 lbs compared to 15-20 of these. But I definitely feel more secure in it compared to the oru and I'm guessing the Tucktec as well. By nature it wants to stay above the water, so even if something really bad happens, it would be easier to get back in than these foldable options.
The Lake has some new competition from Tucktec. They had a new model called the Boto that is just......10 lbs! It seems to only cost $250. I use Sea Eagle inflatables which I love, but I've been curious about having something I could back pack to a remote pond or easily take on public transportation or a bicycle. And ideally something that I can break down faster (completely dry). Perhaps the biggest objection to these folding kayaks is their safety. Being on groups for both, numerous people have posted about them unexpectedly filling with water (often due to do improperly setting them up) and having to swim back with the kayaks. Way more common issue than some might thing. I'm now reading posts about places not even allowing folding kayaks due to too many water rescues. The seats on these people are saying aren't too comfortable either. I'd certainly still like to check out the Boto, but I'd recommend only kayaking with a folding kayak where you can easily get out of the water if you needed and following the shore line. Otherwise, be prepared to swim back always as a possibility.
@@leonardomartino3923 That's true, but they had to make some compromises to get the weight down from 26 lbs to an incredible 10 lbs! And also, the price is even lower on the Boto. The Boto is in the unique position of being significantly lighter than the lightest available flat water kayaks, and also significantly cheaper which opens up a whole new market for it. In general, I'm a bigger fan of inflatable kayaks such as my Sea Eagles (I have a Razorlite, the current model Paddleski, 2 of the older Paddleski's, and three of SE330. For just paddling, the Razorlite is hard to beat. However, I've been in the market to add another kayak to take to remote locations hiking, maybe on public transportation or a bicycle, and something that I can pack away dry much faster than my Razorlite for those days where I only have a half hour on the water. The Boto sounds like it might be just want I'm looking for, as I also didn't want to spend much more on a kayak for these special purposes as it wouldn't be my main kayak on a regular day. Before the Boto, the best option sounded like the Aquaglide Cirrus 110 ultralight. It weighs about 15 lbs, and costs $1300 (on sale for $1100 currently). The Boto by comparison is just 10 lbs, and only costs $250. Maybe even cheaper on sale? The Boto was shown in a video to pack up in about 2-3 minutes, and maybe 5 if completely dried off. My Razorlite takes more than 10 (awesome kayak though). Inflation of the Razorlite is really quick though. The only hesitations are....folding kayaks are not nearly as safe as inflatables. I've been following them in online groups & watching videos for years. They can fill with water unexpectedly and you have to swim back, and if you flip, there's no getting back in. However with the weight down to a mere 10 lbs, and the cost extremely low, it's very tempting for my special uses. I also feel inflatables are way more comfortable, but I think I could deal with the Boto for those special times.
@@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 my bad I think the warrant period is the same. the tucktec is just sturdier (I have both tucktec and Oru Lake and Ory Inlet) than Boto and Oru. As for unexpectedly fill up with water its just not really true. I use them reguarly. If u pay attention on how much water gets in the bottom of ur kayak u can sense leaks. My Oru lake has a leak, after 1 hour the ass is completely wet and I guess in 3 hours or 4 it sinks. its scratched somewhere, most probably on the corners of the main folds. I just have to know ur vehicle and push its limits one small step at the time.
@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 exactly. Neither one would be great in a self rescue situation when swamped with water. I've been looking at tucktecs for a while but can't bring myself to buy one. I've read about the sides buckling for some people and the company basically trying to silence people instead of openly address and fix them. The doesn't give me confidence in them as a company :(
@@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 Exactly. If either of these boats takes on a significant amount of water, you'll be dragging it back to shore. That's the major downside to both I think. I've been looking at the tucktecs for a while but I can't bring myself to buy one. I've read the issues some people have had with the sides buckling WHILE out on the water. That's the last thing I want to worry about, my boat literally falling apart while I'm out on the water. Instead of attempting to address these issues publicly, they silence people and the Tucktec community jumps berates them. That's not how a reputable company should behave. Instead, they should try to figure out what is causing the issue and work to PUBLICLY address it for current and future customers instead of sweeping it under the rug.
Thank you for your review. I'm confused because the title says "Comparing the Oru Lake Sport Against the Tucktec Folding Kayak. You're actually reviewing the Lake and not Lake Sport. You may change that on the title. Thank you again. Great thorough review.
This was the Lake Sport model with adjustable foot rest, adjustable seat, and the extra metal bar on the front of the orange floor. The plain sport model lacks all of that and its seat is not adjustable.
Video provided some help but I'm confused why you spent this much time comparing a kayak from 2019 when they don't even sell these anymore. Looking at foldable now and most of your points don't really apply because the model was upgraded for Tucktec. This would have been a great video in 2019.
They are both overpriced trash. Amazon has a 14ft full drop stitch yak for 500$. The seat socks but it's a 1500$ yak for 500$ with a good pump so a 50$ seat doesn't hurt my pockets lol.
Really nice review, thank you! This is an awesome side by side comparison. I recently bought a new Tucktec, and they sent me the new 2025 model. I just received it yesterday and haven't had time to play with it yet. But since I had really wanted an Oru, I am really happy to hear what you said about the Tucktec! I feel much better now :) thanks again
@@JayWandersOut I haven't weighed it but it does seem light. I thought it took more muscles to assemble than they make out, but i was able to do it. I guarantee the one the 8 year old girl assembled was not brand new. I should add that I didn't really expect it to be that easy to assemble first time, and so far I am very happy with the boat but it hasn't been in the water yet
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Good video with a conclusion I agree with. Although your video is just a few days old as I write, I noticed you're using a pretty old Tucktec model. I own a 2024 Tuck, and the company has made some noticeable improvements, even as recently as this year. The weight has come down to 20 pounds, the foam bumpers on the cockpit have been removed with a permanent cover, the included seat and foot rest are really improved. As of 4/1/24, the Tucktec approaches the convenience of the Oru at nearly half the price.
It still doesn't fold into it's own suitcase, but Tuck sells a carry bag separately, and with the foam bumpers gone, there's little to fall out.
Thanks for letting us know about this video! - Team Tucktec
There isn't a silver bullet for folding kayaks yet, it seems. But I hope these manufacturers are watching this video! Just saw that Tucktec has a 10 lb. kayak with an optional skeg. Wow! Also, so much depends on how one wants to use their kayak before making their final choice. Thank you for your in-depth review! I appreciate it! 👍
Yeah their 10lb one is made of the same material as Oru, that corrugated plastic. It's not designed as well though so I would think there is more chance for failure at a joint. It's new so time will tell though.
The skeg now comes standard with that model
@@JayWandersOutyou can't buy your very old Tucktec for a long time so your comparison has very little validity for someone buying the much updated 2024 Tucktec which only weighs 20lbs and has a very comfortable seat and sturdy foot rest.
Your 2020 Tucktec kayak kickstarter version is at least 4 upgrades out of date so this review is pointless as you can not buy one.
I have a 2022 Tucktec which is improved over your old Tucktec and I also have a 2024 kayak that is vastly improved.
The new 2024 Tucktec does not look cheap with no foam on the sides plus the side latches are inside and there is nothing sliding around.
The 2024 is plenty rigid and they float.
Those black feet are protection for when in folded box mode. I agree the weak points can allow pin holes which allows water to enter the channels. I glued D rings onto the ORU to attach a sponge with a carabiner or a caddy for my water and sunscreen.
Nice honest review, Jay.
Not sure why my original comment is gone. So, I'll try again. I think this is a great comparison video. But it's not entirely fair to compare a new Oru Lake to a Tucktec model that we haven't produced since 2020. Get a hold of us here at Tucktec. We will get you a new 2024 model Tucktec, our new 20lb hardshell version with all the latest upgrades, so you can give your viewers a fair and current comparison between the two.
Get in touch!
Pete
General Manager
Tucktec Folding Kayaks
i was not looking for a foldable but after this video and your reply im thinking i will get the new 2024 model tuck you mention and carry it aboard my 24ft sail boat
Your product is trash. Amazon sells a bonnlo 14 ft full drop stitch yak that is leagues ahead of your folding garbage. Oh, and it's 500$. You can't compete with your yak looking like glued together garbage from a landfill.
i was just thinking about this, he's using the kickstarter version of the tucktec
Great review simple and clear. Thank you
Thanks so much! Great review
I just purchased a used original Tucktec model so this was really helpful. I'm so excited to use it! I couldn't afford the newer model right now.
I have a Gen 1 (kcikstarter) boat and I agree, it is easy to buckle if you put a lot of weight in it. I hear the Gen 2/3 boats with the rotating latches and fold-inside sides are more robust.
Great review, very informative with pros and cons of both.
Hello Jay. Nice review. Those black feet on the ORU are only there as the base of the folded suit-case.
I really like the oru's form factor but have they essential stopped innovating? I bought a 2025 tucktec and it's been small improvements year over year whereas, the oru seems to stay static. Or maybe they concentrate more on their higher end models.
I own an oru lake I bought used. I was surprised how large the "suitcase" actually is. Seems like the tucktec has a much smaller footprint when folded up.
These are both boats for calm waters. Taking them out on windy days or when there's a lot of boat traffic won't end well. Neither one would handle water on the inside well. You can buy float bags for the oru (about $70), but that doesn't really solve the problem only makes it a little bit better.
They both have 3 year warranties, which offers some reassurance. I've read that tucktec will honor their warranty if you experience an issue. Reading through the oru literature, you need to register it within 90 days or the 3 year warranty isn't applied. I don't know if they'd hold you to that, but seems a little sketchy.
At the end of the day I want a boat that is easy to get into and out of, is very unlikely to sink, handles small waves and some wind, and doesn't take up a ton of space. Right now that has me leaning towards the inflatables- advanced elements, sea eagle, etc. They do weigh a little more- my inflatable is about 30 lbs compared to 15-20 of these. But I definitely feel more secure in it compared to the oru and I'm guessing the Tucktec as well. By nature it wants to stay above the water, so even if something really bad happens, it would be easier to get back in than these foldable options.
The Lake has some new competition from Tucktec. They had a new model called the Boto that is just......10 lbs! It seems to only cost $250.
I use Sea Eagle inflatables which I love, but I've been curious about having something I could back pack to a remote pond or easily take on public transportation or a bicycle. And ideally something that I can break down faster (completely dry).
Perhaps the biggest objection to these folding kayaks is their safety. Being on groups for both, numerous people have posted about them unexpectedly filling with water (often due to do improperly setting them up) and having to swim back with the kayaks. Way more common issue than some might thing. I'm now reading posts about places not even allowing folding kayaks due to too many water rescues. The seats on these people are saying aren't too comfortable either.
I'd certainly still like to check out the Boto, but I'd recommend only kayaking with a folding kayak where you can easily get out of the water if you needed and following the shore line. Otherwise, be prepared to swim back always as a possibility.
the BOTO is kinda not as durable as the real tuckec. I think also the warrant period is different.
@@leonardomartino3923 That's true, but they had to make some compromises to get the weight down from 26 lbs to an incredible 10 lbs! And also, the price is even lower on the Boto.
The Boto is in the unique position of being significantly lighter than the lightest available flat water kayaks, and also significantly cheaper which opens up a whole new market for it.
In general, I'm a bigger fan of inflatable kayaks such as my Sea Eagles (I have a Razorlite, the current model Paddleski, 2 of the older Paddleski's, and three of SE330.
For just paddling, the Razorlite is hard to beat. However, I've been in the market to add another kayak to take to remote locations hiking, maybe on public transportation or a bicycle, and something that I can pack away dry much faster than my Razorlite for those days where I only have a half hour on the water. The Boto sounds like it might be just want I'm looking for, as I also didn't want to spend much more on a kayak for these special purposes as it wouldn't be my main kayak on a regular day.
Before the Boto, the best option sounded like the Aquaglide Cirrus 110 ultralight. It weighs about 15 lbs, and costs $1300 (on sale for $1100 currently). The Boto by comparison is just 10 lbs, and only costs $250. Maybe even cheaper on sale? The Boto was shown in a video to pack up in about 2-3 minutes, and maybe 5 if completely dried off. My Razorlite takes more than 10 (awesome kayak though). Inflation of the Razorlite is really quick though.
The only hesitations are....folding kayaks are not nearly as safe as inflatables. I've been following them in online groups & watching videos for years. They can fill with water unexpectedly and you have to swim back, and if you flip, there's no getting back in. However with the weight down to a mere 10 lbs, and the cost extremely low, it's very tempting for my special uses. I also feel inflatables are way more comfortable, but I think I could deal with the Boto for those special times.
@@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 my bad I think the warrant period is the same. the tucktec is just sturdier (I have both tucktec and Oru Lake and Ory Inlet) than Boto and Oru. As for unexpectedly fill up with water its just not really true. I use them reguarly. If u pay attention on how much water gets in the bottom of ur kayak u can sense leaks. My Oru lake has a leak, after 1 hour the ass is completely wet and I guess in 3 hours or 4 it sinks. its scratched somewhere, most probably on the corners of the main folds. I just have to know ur vehicle and push its limits one small step at the time.
@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 exactly. Neither one would be great in a self rescue situation when swamped with water.
I've been looking at tucktecs for a while but can't bring myself to buy one. I've read about the sides buckling for some people and the company basically trying to silence people instead of openly address and fix them. The doesn't give me confidence in them as a company :(
@@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 Exactly. If either of these boats takes on a significant amount of water, you'll be dragging it back to shore. That's the major downside to both I think.
I've been looking at the tucktecs for a while but I can't bring myself to buy one. I've read the issues some people have had with the sides buckling WHILE out on the water. That's the last thing I want to worry about, my boat literally falling apart while I'm out on the water. Instead of attempting to address these issues publicly, they silence people and the Tucktec community jumps berates them. That's not how a reputable company should behave. Instead, they should try to figure out what is causing the issue and work to PUBLICLY address it for current and future customers instead of sweeping it under the rug.
Thank you for your review. I'm confused because the title says "Comparing the Oru Lake Sport Against the Tucktec Folding Kayak. You're actually reviewing the Lake and not Lake Sport. You may change that on the title. Thank you again. Great thorough review.
This was the Lake Sport model with adjustable foot rest, adjustable seat, and the extra metal bar on the front of the orange floor. The plain sport model lacks all of that and its seat is not adjustable.
Really not fair comparison
Just bought a Tucktec for $279
Video provided some help but I'm confused why you spent this much time comparing a kayak from 2019 when they don't even sell these anymore. Looking at foldable now and most of your points don't really apply because the model was upgraded for Tucktec. This would have been a great video in 2019.
0:27 28 lbs = 71 cm 🤭
They are both overpriced trash. Amazon has a 14ft full drop stitch yak for 500$. The seat socks but it's a 1500$ yak for 500$ with a good pump so a 50$ seat doesn't hurt my pockets lol.
You can't get a $1500 for $500. TNSTAAFL.
Really nice review, thank you! This is an awesome side by side comparison. I recently bought a new Tucktec, and they sent me the new 2025 model. I just received it yesterday and haven't had time to play with it yet. But since I had really wanted an Oru, I am really happy to hear what you said about the Tucktec! I feel much better now :) thanks again
Is it as light as they say? I watched their assembly video and kind of want to buy one myself!
@@JayWandersOut I haven't weighed it but it does seem light. I thought it took more muscles to assemble than they make out, but i was able to do it. I guarantee the one the 8 year old girl assembled was not brand new. I should add that I didn't really expect it to be that easy to assemble first time, and so far I am very happy with the boat but it hasn't been in the water yet