Best All-Around Inflatable Kayak? Sea Eagle 380x Gear Review
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- Опубликовано: 2 июл 2024
- In this video I'm reviewing the Sea Eagle 380x inflatable kayak - a kayak that Sea Eagle claims "Pound for pound the Explorer kayaks are champions capable of handling any type of adventure: Fishing, Touring, Camping, Exploring, Adventuring, Whitewater, but Never Boring!" The question is, does the Sea Eagle 380x deserve to be called the 'Best All-Round Inflatable Kayak', and is it worth the price?
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Watch the FULL Paddle Tales Adventure on the Nantahala River with the Sea Eagle 380 Explorer: • Inflatable River Kayak...
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Gear I have tested and recommend:
Paddles:
Aqua-bound Shred (whitewater) tidd.ly/3HRZCyq
Aqua-bound Manta Ray Carbon 2-piece (rec/touring) tidd.ly/3jND8qB
PFDs:
NRS Chinook PFD (fishing) tidd.ly/3XodlTv
NRS Zen PFD (whitewater) tidd.ly/3Yy7yMk
NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec) tidd.ly/3xcsXih
Dry Gear / Layers:
NRS Flux Drytop tidd.ly/3KfoYcH
NRS Riptide Splash Jacket tidd.ly/40Kf0pi
NRS Axiom Dry Suit tidd.ly/3YGUSmg
Jackets:
Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket www.cotopaxi.com/products/fue...
Shirts:
NRS Silkweight Long-Sleeve Shirt - Mens tidd.ly/3DVrNva
NRS Guide Short Sleeve Shirt tidd.ly/3YIa6XV
Pants:
NRS Benny Board Shorts tidd.ly/3lrG78z
Footwear:
NRS Boundary Boot tidd.ly/3DXamKT
Astral PFD Sandal tidd.ly/3xjPtWI
Sunglasses
Wiley X Outdoor Sunglasses bit.ly/3NtJQKR
Other Paddling Gear
NRS WRSI Current Helmet tidd.ly/40EUkiB
NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt tidd.ly/3YHTaBD
Surf Ears Ear Plugs bit.ly/3AbMl1y
GoPro Hero 11 Black amzn.to/3ZWVXHN
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I have owned my Sea Eagle 380x for 8 years. Not a single regret you have really understated this kayak. This thing is unsinkable. I have been through huge wakes and this thing was super stable. Very tough material love this thing. I gave up motorcycles to be on the water and not one regret. Amazing kayak, fits in my trunk takes little time to inflate.
Thanks for sharing your experience with it! I'm not surprised to hear you love it.
Adjustable foot rests are sold separately for $100 by Sea Eagle. Also separately sold - thigh straps.
i've had the 380X for over a year and find it to be a solid product. i picked up the smaller skeg for the low water rivers in eastern PA and it does it's job well. i wanted a kayak that i could store easily in my city home (anything outside would walk away), could carry two people, and would hold gear for a weekend of kayak camping. it checks all the boxes, is easy to setup, and more importantly, is easy to pack up and bring home. stops along the way are not a problem, no one knows there is a kayak in the trunk! and no gas mileage penalty since it's not strapped outside the vehicle.
the lack of foot rests can be addressed with straps and a piece of PVC pipe, but i have not found i need it. on a recent lazy river float with some friends, i moved the seat out of the way and made a comfy place to lay down while we slowly drifted down river. it was a bit silly but it was also a bunch of fun watching the clouds and birds move above me. maybe it was vultures circling?
if you came here to get insight for a possible purchase, i think you will find the 380X is a good investment and backed by a company who have been at this a long time. it's no speed demon, if you want that, the 393RL is your huckleberry.
thanks for this video, you summed up the pros and cons well and you clearly had a great time in the white water.
I have the 420x. This a great piece of gear, use it for everything - fishing, kayak camping, solo flat water and on the bay. All with kids. Safe and stable.
"A jack of all trades is a master of none, but a jack of all trades beats a master of none". Tried several iKayaks before getting the 380x. at 6'1", 320 pounds and a sketchy knee I was losing hope. Very comfortable, very stable, all around it is a great boat. Fits exactly into the bike trailer when folded which was a bonus.
I cannot help myself but to see the extreme similarity between that boat and the boats from Itiwit x100 series!
Thanks for mentioning ACA's online course, I'll check it out.
Another exceptional video soup to nuts! From the information to cinematography, videography, script, flow, editing, sound design, and engineering. Everything adds up to incredible top-notch content that keeps you captivated throughout. Can't wait for the next one! AaaLoHaa 🤙
Really great review and thank you for the ACA details and information.
Another great review. Thanks. Looking forward to your Advanced Frame Expedition Elite review. Good health.
I found it very worthwhile to upgrade to their oversize fin and inflatable seat which has even better back support and comfort. With the many ring loops I rigged sort of a grabrail all around, a shoulder strap for carry, and a foot rest. It is wonderful to lie down on. My 300x didn't come with any backpack but a tarp wrap which is useless for long carries.
I bough on Amazon a Stansport Deluxe Freighter Aluminum Pack Frame, added some straps to the SE "useless-indeed-tarp-wrap" and... got a backpack-style package. Easy to carry, with wide shoulder straps and padded belt. Pack Frame fits snug in the SE or may be left in the car.
Thanx Ken, picking up my 380X tomorrow.
I love my Seaeagle 385FT. I use it for scuba and freediving in the ocean. It has smaller pontoons or sides making it easier to enter and exit in open water.
Great video. I'd love to see the 385fta reviewed by you at some point to compare as it's the more fishing version. Nobody really covers what they could do in harsher recreational and non-fishing environments.
Your video and comments help confirm as my choice. Thank you for your expertice
I'd like to see how Sea Eagle's little sail kit accessories work. I could see them be useful on open lakes or bays.
great review Ken I might need tp get an inflatable.
I ordered this kayak a few days ago(pro package). They also threw in a free electric pump. Can't wait to try it out!
Mind sharing where u got the best deal?
Sea eagle website have deals of free electric pump on their kayaks and boats until October 31st.
Have had the longer 420x for a couple of years now, primarily bought for overnight river trips with friend and big dog, but also flatwater paddling and sailing. There is space for gear though as an inflatable it has nowhere near the cargo capacity of a canoe. I have a lot of long distance ocean experience, but not much whitewater experience above class III. So far we've usually done fine with moderate class III, though still are limited more by skill, and a dog that sometimes stands up when things get rough, than performance. The 14'' length can make it a bit vulnerable to getting broadside and wrapped on rocks (especially with that dog on the bow it is somewhat slow to maneuver)-- but on the other hand, being narrow does allow threading that we couldn't do in a wide raft. With heavy loads it does lack some buoyancy in bigger waves, but that lower profile is also key on flatwater when the wind blows. It is fun to sail as well (have a sailboatstogo kit) and tacks well -- more so than the fat inflatables that the sailing kits often use.
I once only trusted hypalon inflatables (family still has a 50 year old Avon), but this pvc does feel very tough, and the drop stitch floor is solid -- that rigidity is probably more helpful on flatwater or sailing -- thinking about not fully pressurizing (rated 10 psi) to allow more flex in bigger class III.
A few critiques -- I do think the lack of good thigh / foot braces are a problem and will be looking to add something. Though the boat itself appears very well made, the accessories can be really crappy, which is unfortunate as that cost cutting means stuff breaks quickly and in the least opportune moments. The valves on the boat seem high quality, but the self bailing plugs and threads are not well designed and seem somewhat cheap, making them vulnerable to sand / dirt and difficult to manipulate, tighten, or undo when paddling. That's probably my biggest gripe with the boat, which isn't a deal breaker.
I haven't paddled it by myself in whitewater, but that might be easier in bigger stuff. I agree that like the 380x, the 420x is a great all-around inflatable, and better for carrying gear and a dog with a partner with the cost of some maneuverability.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing your personal experience with the boat Richard!
Thanks for review, enjoyed it, I am looking for such a kayak for me and the dog, since I can not get him to fit in my hard shell. And welcome to Carolinas.
I was thinking the same thing! Looks durable, easily portable, and would work well for me and my dog. In the Carolinas.
@@mariannekiss2991 I am going with the Cronin Ugly Duck, after much research and talking to other IK paddlers, t is less proven to ejecting you and k9 out of WW.
I find with these styles of inflatable (I have an Aquaglide Chelan which is basically the same design as this) that the thing is awesome so long as you are on flat water or the current/wind is at your back. As soon as you are going against a heavy headwind or current, the paddling experience nose dives. Great for a few things but just gotta be aware of where it struggles.
I have an Aquaglide Chelan as well and love it. I have the 14' version and paddle it solo and tandom. When it gets windy I keep my Down Wind Kayak Sail on board and can continue to have fun. It's great for fishing, sailing, and playing in rivers!
I really like my 380x, but have to agree that going against the wind on flat water can be tough. With two paddlers it's not so bad but solo against a 15-20mph wind can be pretty tiresome
@@waynebrucemanbat5787 the large pontoons of the 3xx series really catch the wind. my solution is to start beating (zigzagging) my way closer to the shore line and out of the open water/wind. it is exhausting, but as long as it's not hours upon hours of wind in my face, it's fun to talk about :)
I have a bag with 50lbs of wts. Use that in hi winds in the front of the boat and have no issues with tracking or paddling. It becomes a beast going into the wind.
@@corygersh9428 I usually put my barrel up front when in high wind and it is a solid 40-50lbs but it doesn't help much. I'm a big guy though 6'3, 225lbs so perhaps I just need more weight.
my buddy has one and we founf it on sale and paid $412 with tax, it was on sale for $389 I'm excited it will be here this Friday
The Sea Eagle Explorer 380x is an excellent inflatable, and excels at white water vs their other models. They demonstrate the durability of the material they use in their higher end kayaks by running over an inflated Explorer with a jump. I've seen a couple Explorers that were made in 1975 that still hold air! I plan on getting an Explorer eventually to add to my collection for white water.
Their best all around kayak I felt was their Paddleski 435ps. It's no longer available due to the government requiring period changes in materials. The "Paddleski" 435ps I believe actually paddled just a tad better in flat water. It was no a white water boat. What made it so great was it's ability to to take up to a 3HP gasoline or equivalent motor which is way beyond a trolling motor or Bixpy. I use mine with a Torqeedo 1003s lithium, equal to a 3HP gas motor in power. The 435ps also made a great sailing platform for a full sail rig, with the Explorer later offered too. It has unmatched stability with pontoons in the kayak world, yet paddles well as a kayak in reasonable conditions as does the Explorer.
I have the new replacement Paddleski 437ps too, which is an excellent boat, but no longer classified as a kayak in their advertising. It's a bit larger, and can be paddled as a kayak in calm conditions, but takes more effort to paddle than the 435ps and is slower. It came out the end of last season and I'm one of the first to get one. I've yet to test paddling it with two people or longer paddles, which I think would help. Where improvements have been made is with it's motoring ability. The 437ps can handle up to a 6HP motor. Incredible for a boat this size that could be paddled as a kayak. Also has a drop stitch floor which you can use as a SUP or stand and cast for fishing. Comfortable regular boat swivel seats are included. Holds up to 850 lbs, and is more roomy than the old model, and safer as it has 5 air chambers. You should check it out. I posted the first RUclips video on it, and check out Kayak Cliff's videos on it. The most fun you can have on the water in a hybrid kayak/boat combination. Other than white water, the Paddleski is really the safest kind of inflatable kayak on the market, and can be taken in rough ocean waters with strong wind or currents. Places recreational kayaks don't go, and it fits in your sedan's trunk. I take mine out around ferry's and cruise ships with gigantic boat wakes, and have tested motoring directly against riptides and ocean surf. With a Paddleski, you can play where the big boats play. Jim at sailboatstogo.com has a full sail rig available for it. Be sure to check it out. You can also walk right on like a regular boat. Nothing else like it out there.
Which RUclips profile did you post that video from?
That roll over by a vehicle is bogus. Lots of paddle board and kayak companies do that.
Would be cool to se a review of the decathlon itiwit x500. looks quite different than this sea eagle and looks a lot like a rigid kayak.
Thanks for all your great videos Ken. The Sea Eagle 380 x has been at the top of my radar for awhile now. Sea Eagles are top notch. For 100 extra you get the pro carbon package with 2 carbon paddles. That’s the one for me, I am fully aware that the carbon paddles probably won’t be like their 250 - 500 counterparts, but for an extra 50 a paddle they are lighter and stiffer than the aluminium paddles in the pro package which should make a more enjoyable experience. If portability was not a key, or I lived closer to the water - a Hurricane Tampico 130 would be my choice, but a hard shell kayak just isn’t that feasible at this point. These boats are plenty durable, on the Sea Eagle sight they drop a cinder block into the floor of this boat and it bounces out. They also run completely over an inflated 380 with a Jeep. For 1099 for the carbon package this is excellent value. Aire inflatables run more than Sea Eagles and are not as versatile and I don’t believe they come the same goods as the Sea Eagles. I can’t wait to go camping when I get my 380 x.
My pleasure! I think you're absolutely right about the paddle upgrade. The carbon paddles might not rival the higher end carbon paddles, but they're a great upgrade! Enjoy the camping this summer/fall!
I have one and this work horse is super stable it can handle pretty much and size waves this thing is unsinkable Abe even if you happen to blow a chamber the drop stick floor will act as a raft pretty darn near impossible to blow that big chambers excellent product I am super happy with mine
Awesome to hear!
If you're going to be primarily doing white water the 300x is the better option for single rider. A lot more mobile.
Hello K e n , it is a pleasure to see your videos, I enjoy them a lot. Do you know anything about the Decathlon inflatable kayak called ITIWIT X500? I have used it and I really like it.
Sold!
Hi and thanks so much for these reviews, they are brilliantly put together. What I would love is some kind of comparator. I'm looking at a kayak (frame or inflatable as I'm a city dweller) for some extended day trips camping, that can also cope with some rough waters/rapids if needed, and read your review of the advanced frame expedition elite which seemed a perfect all-rounder, though then everyone says it takes days to dry out, and is heavy, and made of inferior material compared to this (?). The Gumotex Rush 1 also seems to fit the bill, but then this kayak looks great. The ideal would be to get out and paddle them, but sadly that is pretty much impossible, at least here in the UK, so I rely on reviews like yours. Any thoughts on say what it might be like to paddle this for days vs the advanced frame elite you reviewed, set up and set down/dry time, how they handle/cut through the water etc. Is this too wide to paddle comfortably for extended periods? Would you have a preference for extended camping trips?? Many thanks.
Is your Twist not good any longer?
How about a boat such as the Elling Kardinal K370?
As for paddling for extended periods, if I could row a raft for 53 consecutive days, you can paddle a narrower boat such as these kayaks yourself.
I feel like it's a great compromise between a kayak and a canoe. Definitely like it
Kayak, canoe, raft, barge... everything. But do not use as a hot air balloon, it may be shot down!
@@Alexandre.Savine . Well, how about a helium balloon? That's different than a hot air balloon. 😆
My wife and I bought the 380x motor package 6/22 It’s 3.5 of 5 stars. The floor deflated after a week. Good warranty I’m sure but darn it I pay the shipping? And without a floor for months? Bummer.
Otherwise, it takes 3ft waves like a champ, very challenging in the higher wind without two paddlers, scuppers let as much water in as out, paddles are short, splashing is intense up front with no splash guard. We have kayaked/motored up to 16 miles a day, caught our best fish limits yet, explored nearly 100miles of flat, choppy and extremely wavy water, headwinds sidewinds the excellent tailwind. We sit kneel stand up paddle/fly fish on the leaky floor a lot. Next year with a new floor all rivers.
We are 5,6 and 5,11. Fit ok.
Would recommend
Great feedback! Thanks for sharing. I'm not surprised to hear this boat gets tossed around in big waves and wind. I just tested the 385ft, which would definitely do a little better in those conditions, but still not the ideal boat for big, open water.
@@PaddleTV Hi....i'm in the uk and torn between this and the 385ft no fishing version. Did you ever test/review the standard version?
Love the channel by the way.
I'd really have to question any friend that didn't want multiple kayaks.
The Sea Eagle looks to be a decent fit for downriver stuff Class 2 and below as well as a snorkeling or diving platform.
That 12'6 LOA looks like about an 11' LWL which would be a really slow boat if you wanted to cover much flatwater. It also looks like the wind would push it around severely.
As an owner i have to agree. Its not fast and I was recently paddling in Key Largo and at a stand-still with a strong ocean breeze. Still love it though.
I have a 380x and take it out on lakes, but never in wind over 10mph because you do get blown around. The skeg is useful then, planning on adding another in the middle though. I made the mistake of going out in some windy/choppy conditions when I first got it, and I struggled to make any headway. I would not take it out in the ocean. It's a great kayak and I want to take it on some day trips with the great weight capacity and space.
I have the 420x which I purchased as my first and "one kayak to rule them all" kayak, at least that was the original plan...now I have four additional kayaks, because, well....you know how it goes with kayaks.
The 420x is even longer at 14 feet, but this 380x review is quite accurate from my perspective.
A few of my observations:
-The 380/420x is absolutely a party barge. If you have larger friends, they will fit and the 420x is super stable, just like the 380x, so the less experienced paddler should be able to build some confidence AND haul a medium sized cooler and a few dry bags. We've even NRS strapped an Ecoxgear EcoBoulder speaker into ours for a slow float.
-The 380/420x tracks well enough with the skeg, but wind won't be fun even with the skeg.
-The seats are pretty good, but my but still gets wet even on flat water, just not as much.
-I consider the 420x to be 80% kayak and 20% whitewater raft. We use ours mostly for flat water/slow river recreation and Class II and below whitewater. You can bomb through rapids but eddying out is tough with the size.
- The Sea Eagle paddles are not great. If you are with casuals/novice paddlers, they'll not know any better, but I prefer my higher quality paddle. The SE paddles break down to four pieces, so you can stow one as an emergency paddle.
- I use a thwart/footrest/seat for an AIRE Lynx kayak as a foot brace in the Sea Eagle. I also use my AIRE thigh straps rather than my Sea Eagle thigh straps which feel flimsy.
-The Sea Eagle foot pump that comes with the 380/420 is pretty meager too. We invested in a higher quality pump.
-The wrapping/tarp storage bag is not of the highest quality. I upgraded this too.
-You can stand up in it like a paddle board. You can dangle your legs off it. Your dog will probably fit unless you have a mastiff or something. Pack sun block and water. Stay safe.
This review is pretty much spot-on. I love my SE420x for a couple of seasons:
- it was our only boat and it served as a jack-of-all trades boat until we got more whitewater friendly IKs and more recreational/flatwater friendly hard-shell kayaks.
-my wife/daughter learned by tandem paddling with me in the safe, stable 420x, and then we able to move into a solo boat.
-having the 420x as a third boat for friends is great.
-I can pack it in our SUV on a road trip or camping trip, and always have the option of paddling.
I totally agree. I have a SE330(cheaper flimsy model-much better than the cheapest inflatables) 1st, a SE380x, and a SE300x(smaller than 380x). I highly recommend the pro-package with the awesome comfortable high back seats (same as Ken used). The large pocket behind is awesome. The SE 300/380/420 really are awesome jack of all trades inflatables. You can use them on a lake and stay bone dry (close the self bailing holes) and then the next day do some mild white water all for a great price. The drop stitch hard floor and the firm tubes are great for kids to jump off and are really comfortable. I have done some class III in both the 300x and 380x which was a lot of fun, but I would recommend them more for Class II+ (basically the Nantahala that Ken did which I have done a couple times with them). DONT get the Sea Eagle thigh straps, I did and wish I didnt. I bought some NRS thigh straps after that are MUCH better(just like the Aire). The foot pump isn't bad, but a electric pump is the way to go. I put my foot pump in a dry bag and take in on the water. If you are mostly going to do whitewater, I would get an Aire Lynx or RMR (cheaper) which are designed for whitewater (higher rocker, etc.). Overall, I love the 380x. I bought the 300x because I wanted to be more maneuverable on my own (however it is large enough for a small adult and young kid). While the 300x is more maneuverable, it is no hard shell whitewater kayak :)
@@KZ-yu4jz Lol. I have a used Lynx for me and a used RMR Animas as the wife-daughter-friend kayak. I was lucky enough to get them before the pandemic.
@@jdarms27 That is funny you have the two I recommended....(you have good taste!). I would love to hear your experience on the difference between the three. My buddy who has a Lynx says it is much better on whitewater than his Driftsun Rover, wondering if you also see a big difference in whitewater. The Lynx is certainly more durable with that bombproof material. Do you unzip the Lynx to air out/clean?
@@KZ-yu4jz @K Z The 420x is just too big to run on anything technical; we often use it on a run called C to G (Coloma to Greenwood Creek) which is very beginner/intermediate friendly, and I like to use the 420x to tandem paddle this run with a friend/family member new to the sport.
On flat-slow water, we use the 420x to put either a big person, a couple of normal sized people, or a solo with lots of gear. I also have a very user friendly Tribe 11.5 for flatwater/slow river float-paddle days. Conceivably, I can get three people on flatwater - 2 on the 420x and one on the Tribe 11.5 while I'm in my sit-inside.
That's the beauty of the 380/420x. You can do both flat/slow water and Class I-II whitewater and have a good time. And frankly, you can run bigger whitewater in a 420x. Check out Montana Matt on youtube and what he has done in a 420x on the Atherton Gorge.
I like the smaller more manageable kayaks for when I am with someone with more experience. For instance, I have a friend who mostly flatwater kayaks in a WS Pungo. He has decent skills. He can run C to G in the RMR while I'm in the Lynx.
I'm by no means a whitewater kayaker, thus I have the smaller whitewater IKs because they are more stable for my limited skill set (no higher than class III) on the Payette or American rivers, depending on where I am.
The Lynx is quite agile, as is the RMR, but the material quality is better with the Lynx. Yes, I unzip the Lynx. I'm pretty particular about cleaning the IKs after use; I reinflate them, hose them out, wipe them down, partially deflate them, and then when they are dry, I dry them with a towel and get all the water out.
@@jdarms27 Do you feel the Lynx and RMR are better in class III than the 420x? One thing I think the inflatables fall short on is ferrying across a river. They are great for charging the rapids, but they are hard to get across when there is a stronger current. Do you feel you can plow through bigger waves with the higher rocker and other design features with the Lynx/RMR?
Thanks for posting no sides drops turn me off
Since doing a review of it, I just wish you would have shown it not inflated in its storage bag. .... to see if it would fit on my ADV motorcycle!
yes good point! might be too big for your motorcycle unfortunately.
I've carried multiday camping gear and an inflatable kayak on my honda nighthawk on two track over the continental divide. When there is a will there is a way.
Great point!
I've owned the Explorer 380x for 10yrs and love it. I bought the extra backpack to back country with it and was able to also pile it into a large sidecar on our motorcycle. I wouldn't want to travel far in the sidecar with it, it's too big for that...if that helps.
Have you tested the Sea Eagle 300X? I'm interested in that one and I would imagine it's pretty much like the 380X, but just for one person? I saw your video on the Ultraglide Chelan 120, but since it doesn't come with a paddle or pump, the SE 300X seems like a better option, especially for a beginning kayaker. Also, was wondering if the seat could be replaced with one that sits just a bit higher to take the pressure off the back?
can you Plz review the Sea Eagle Fast Track 🙌🏼🙌🏼 cheers!
I sure can! Coming very soon...
Very nice How long is that kyack?
Fits one or with good date Anchor.
Have you ever done a review on the Paddle North 2 person?
I learn from your insights which are also your biases. I hope you are never unbiased! I own an Advanced Elements AirVolution which I really like. It appears to have fallen off your list.
Thanks for the review Ken! I've been looking at purchasing the 380x . What length paddle were you using, and what would you recommend for such a wide kayak?
You definitely want a paddle longer than a typical whitewater paddle. I have used a 200cm for whitewater and it was short due to the width of the kayak. I have a 210-220cm paddle that I like to use for high angle paddling.
What K Z said.
I hoped to hear thoughts (from the poster or others) on 1) the quality and length of included paddles / whether you tested with the stock paddle or their upgraded carbon paddles (+ $100). 2) Were there enough D rings and is the lack of floor-level attachments a problem? Thanks.
The Sea Eagle paddles (like the kayaks) are great value for the money. You get what you pay for. The upgrade to the carbon paddles gets you a considerably upgraded paddle, and one that most people would be very happy with.
As for the D-rings... I didn't notice a lack of them, as it has 24 in total.
This seems to be a whitewater capable 385FT. They are both 12' 6", both single or tandem, both have drop stitched floor that allows SUP, similar accessories..
Almost... the 380x is definitely designed to handle whitewater much more than the 385ft, but the 385ft is designed to handle flatwater better than the 380x. The FT has the 'Keel' under the bow that helps it cut through the water and track better much better. The 380x has a flat hull from bow to stern, which makes it highly maneuverable, but doesn't track very well.
@@PaddleTV Most of the rivers in my area have class iii in them. Being a solo paddler I am not going to be doing class iv but I'd like to be able to do some manageable whitewater for an novice/average paddler. This is what's tough as a river isn't like a road that says what the speed limit is, what turns are ahead, what constructions going on... How does one really tell what class a section is when ii/iii look so similar? If you take a 85FT into a class iii run are you doomed? Beginning to think I should just stick to lakes and go in a rafting group if I want to whitewater, lol.
@@pdxmetal certainly a good idea to go with others more experienced. I've never paddled the 385ft (only the 420x), but it really would depend on why the river is rated class III -- if it is primarily because there are big hydraulics, then having a less maneuverable boat might be fine. I find the harder distinction to make between high class III and low class IV -- but so much depends on flow.
I cant decide between the 380x or the 385ft. I dont plan to do any whitewater rafting. I plan to mostly take a kid on rivers and lakes, and maybe do summer crabbing in the Puget Sound on calm days once I work my courage up.
Did you buy one ?
@@flatheadfletch I bought the 385ft and it's been great. Rugged, stable, and it can maneuver really well even in windy conditions.
Ken - i just commented on one of your other videos comparing two Sea Eagles and a hard shell kayak. Same comment here...any feedback between the 300X and the 380X? I should have included my size by the way....I'm 6'5" and 245lbs. I expect the 300X would be okay but the larger 380X might actually work better for me...not sure. Finally, I love the Nantahalla. We had family trips last year to the Upper James, the Middle and Lower Yough, and the Nanny...good times.
What I like about the 380x is that it's much more of an 'all-round' kayak. It does better in a wide range of conditions, including class 1 rivers. On the flip side, the 300x will be better for running whitewater (class 3+) or playing in ocean surf, and so if that's what you'll spend most of your time doing, then the 300x is the way to go. But, the 300x will be VERY slow for flatwater paddling. As for Class 2 paddling like the Nantahala... It's a toss up between the two. They both do a great job.
@@PaddleTV Thanks for the reply. I spoke with one of the guys at Sea Eagle yesterday and he suggested I go with the 380X mostly because it would be a tight fit for me in the 300X. I would like to have a more nimble boat in ww but I think it might be a better all around choice for me to go with the 380X. Best...JW
Try the sea eagle 300 x
Looking forward to your Sea Eagle 385 Fast Track review ;) no reviews address a tsst on ocean water with some rough water? Doable?
My friend has a Sea Eagle 465 (longer version) that he took on Class I&II and it was fine, but not as good as the SE380x (taller tubes and more self bailing holes). If your intention is mostly flat water with some very little whitewater, I think the Fast Track is the way to go. If you want to do some rougher water, I would go with the SE380x
I have the fast track Angler. I took it into the ocean with one foot or less waves. Very sketchy, I did think I was going to get waterlogged, but I did not. I enjoy it, it is thin, so standing in it can be a little unstable, but doable.
@@bradleedenney you can open two drain valves in back and it allows inch water give or take but also stops water rising above that in whitewater conditions or in your case the ocean.
@@KZ-yu4jz thanks kz
@@bradleedenney how did you find the paddling, wondering how safe it is against the tide, if the tide might win vs my paddling. SOS lol. I know it is recommended for calm bays...but one likes to push the envelope a bit eh. I figure the 380x may take waves better with self draining valves but not paddling not on par with 385 in the ocean?
He may have said it but what class of rapids can this kayak reasonably handle? Thank you.
How would you say this compares to the Star Raven 2? I just purchased that boat and I'm curious how they stack up to one another.
Ken or anyone who might know, will the seat from an NRS Pike fit in the 380X ?? Thanks.
Drop-stitch make it more heavy and expensive. I would not go over 15kg. Hard to carry and handle.
Hi. Have you had the chance to try it in the ocean?
I run on shallow Missouri rivers. I think you did a show where you were on the Current River or the Castor. Anyway especially later in the summer you occasionally/frequently run over rocks/gravel because of very shallow areas.
Is that a definite "no" on this boat?
No, quality inflatables like this can definitely handle running over rocks and gravel bars. They're designed to handle whitewater, and a large part of that means they're strong enough to deal with rocky encounters.
@@PaddleTV I'm surprised at that answer and now I might be looking for an inflatable.
Thanks so much!
Does anyone have a Sea Eagle 300x ? This is a great video and thank you! I am wondering how the 9 ft. 10 in. 300x will hold up in Lake Water!
Without having tried it myself, my guess is that it would be quite slow. It will totally be fine... but it will be slow. The 300x offers more maneuverability, but reduced speed. Might not matter to you... but I would typically suggest a longer kayak that tracks better for lake paddling... perhaps the Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack - bit.ly/3eYJ8H2. It tracks better than the 380x. Doesn't deal with whitewater as well though...
@@PaddleTV Thank you very much. I really appreciate all your content! Right now I am deciding between the 380x and the 385ft !
I am a beginner kayaker in Chicago, IL. Really seeking to be stable on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, however still desire some speed to cover ground! I have watched a ton of videos on the 380x - I will try and find some reviews/content for the 385 ft! Thanks again!
@@NickLeyba My friend has the SE385 and it is the way to go if you are not going to be out in waves. Profile is lower so wind doesnt impact it as much. The bow is better for flat paddling. My friend did take the SE385 out in some easy/small waves WW Class II. If you are going to be out in Lake Michigan with some waves, I would go the SE380x. I have a SE380x and SE300x. I wouldnt get a 300x unless you are definitely going out in whitewater. Smaller so more manueverable
@@KZ-yu4jz Thank you! I think the best for me is the Fast Track!
I paddle white water and it's rare to see anyone on a Sea Eagle anything. The sport is dominated by Aire, NRS, and Rocky Mountain Raft. Not saying SE is bad or inferior, but I'll stick with my Aire as it's proven for many years (as is NRS and lately RMR). So the questions begs: are you given, loaned, or is the SE heavily discounted for you? Does you link to them earn you any commissions?
I'm guessing you live in the west, as kayak popularity differs regionally, and Aire, NRS and Rocky Mountain Raft are most popular in the west. Sea Eagle kayaks are very popular, and have also been proven for many years... over 50 years in fact! To answer your question... all my reviews are completely unbiased and honest. Yes, the link earns a commission, but that doesn't steer my opinion in anyway.
Earning modest commissions on links does not guarantee bias; it is called monetizing. It is clear this man is knowledgeable, honest, loves watersports, and enjoys sharing his experience to get others out on the water. He has reviewed the Star Raven Pro and Sea Eagle 380x with equal enthusiasm and been very transparent about their strengths and weaknesses.
I don't think you need to suggest he is not being honest -- you are missing the point of an all around inflatable also good for flatwater (and sailing). I don't see why anyone who has an Aire for whitewater would replace it with a Sea Eagle unless they were downsizing, but heck, plenty of rapids have been paddled back in the day on 70's era Tahitis (not the vinyl crap of today) that weren't even self bailing.
Ken what do you think of the fast track? I’m trying to decide.
I'm actually testing it in the next few weeks... stay tuned!
@@PaddleTV Will you be reviewing the Fast Track Angler ?? Thanks
Hi does anyone know the Sea eagle Z pro flash 1 man ?? can't seem to find review on them.
Sorry! I'm not familiar with that one.
What about kayaking in waters that may have gators. any problem? with an inflatable
I just paddled in the Okefenokee swamp with an inflatable. I don't think it's a problem. They have had tens of thousands of kayakers and canoeists paddling those gator filled waters without any major issues. Respect the gators, and they'll respect you.
Did you paddle this with the paddle that comes with the pro package? If so, how did you like it?
What's the difference between the 380SE and the 380 explorer...
What seat do you use?
I'm guessing you're referring to the 370SE and the 380X. I haven't tried the 370SE, but looking at the two, and reading the specs, here's what I can tell you. The biggest difference is that the 380x has a drop stitch construction floor, which lets you pump it up WAY harder. This creates a much stiffer kayak, which improves its performance. The whole kayak is also made with more durable materials,, and so this kayak will last longer and it handles a much wider range of conditions. The 370SE is really just for flatwater, while the 380X can handle rough water too, including whitewater. If you're just dealing with flatwater, and don't have a big dog that you want to take kayaking with you, then the 370SE will likely work great for you. If you want something more durable, which will handle more diverse conditions, then the 380x would be a better choice. As for seat... I've only tried the 'Pro' seat. I haven't tried the 'Deluxe Inflatable' seat yet, although I think it would be nice for flatwater paddling. It would keep your butt off the floor (drier). The flip side is that it raises your centre of gravity, which isn't a great thing for rough conditions. Cheers!
@@PaddleTV mate that's brilliant thanks, so definitely go for the X model then?
If you need a kayak that can handle a variety of conditions, including whitewater - then yes. If you just need a kayak for touring around on flatwater, then the 370SE will probably perform better (and it's cheaper). If you want a better version of the 370SE (durable like the 380x, but better performing in flatwater), you should like at the 385FT. The 385FT is like a drop stitch version of the 370SE, and so it will be better performing AND more durable. Clear as mud? :)
@@PaddleTV brilliant...thank you
I have a large Labrador that kayaks with me. Do I need to put dog boots on dog for this kayak or is the kayak materials tough enough for unbooted dog feet. I would rather not boot up my dog
No need for dog boots in this kayak, unless your dog has super sharp nails. I would definitely be confident having a dog in this kayak
Can you use thigh straps with it?
It has 24 D-Rings, and so it shouldn't be a problem to do so. I haven't tried it though!
Do you think its durable enough to put a german shepherd in ?
Yes, easily so. It is meant to bounce off sharp rocks with much more force than the dog will be able to apply with its nails.
Yes, provided the nails are trimmed, and even if not, you should be fine.
Looks at the Saturn kayaks that are made with heavier materials. SE has had problems with seams separating due to poor gluing process. Facts matter. Rare to see one on whitewater.
not even an issue with regards to durability. With regards to stability etc depends on the dog.
What if it punctures in the middle of a lake ..?
Unlikely. Very durable.But it comes with a patch kit and I carry a hand pump as a back up. Never had a issue in over a year of use in rivers, lakes, and ocean.
@@NoxiusGas
Thankyou 💕
Don't paddle in the middle! I always stick to shore or close to shore and I've paddled for 13 years.
@@Annie-je4yh
Makes sense ..lol
Saturn pk365 and look no more
I'm guessing that this thing would be blown all over if it was on a lake on a windy day.
Yup. The wind definitely has a real impact on it.
Definitely.
We've got a 420x and while the huge pontoons make the boat almost ridiculously stable, they also make it really vulnerable to heavy winds. That said, our main use case is flat water and it's fine. We go out on windy days and we've been out on lakes in reasonably heavy currents and winds. Tracking can be an issue, but in our experience it's an issue that's always been manageable. We've never been in a position where wind caused the boat to become too difficult to maneuver or where we couldn't maintain direction.
That said, I've been out on a SE FastTrack and it's amazing how much of a difference the smaller pontoons make. It's nowhere near as stable, but you barely notice the wind.
My 420x is better than most inflatable kayaks in this regard, and certainly better than most in which you can do class III rapids in, as the profile is quite low and the drop stitch floor and skeg help rigidity. That said, any inflatable is much more vulnerable to wind than a narrow high performance sea kayak -- I would hesitate to take any inflatable that I've paddled more than a few miles from shore if moderate wind was a possibility. On the other hand, Audrey Sutherland paddled thousands of miles of ocean in her old school inflatable kayak well into her seventies.
Best would be the Itiwit x100+.
Why did you test a 2 person boat with only one person? The 380x is for two people, the 300x is for one person. Also, you didn't have the knee strap which add even more to stability and paddling power. Also, the paddle that comes with the kayak is wider than a standard kayak paddle and is much easier to use.
Just another IK. Best whitewaterIK is a hyside. No IK performs well on open water.
Hyside is legendary for high quality and performance, especially their Padillac.