Intex Excursion Pro - Best Inflatable Kayak ever? No.
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 20 мар 2021
- This is just my opinion and observations on this kayak.
I am not affiliated with any manufacturers and have no financial interest in kayaks.
I just want (more) people to enjoy the water (more).
meetup.com/pdx-inflatables 
Спорт
Thank you for buying an armada of inflatable kayaks and trying them out for us, so that we can make better purchasing decisions! 👍
My pleasure, truly! It feels great to be able to provide kayaks to those who don't have them and provide info about them to those who seek it.
I thought these kayaks were from owners in the Meet Up group?
Had mine 3 years now and only 1 leak from hitting a branch which I patched a year ago and no problems since. Fantastic kayak
Thank you for sharing your experience. I find very helpful your advice about seats and paddles. My experience with the PVC which Intex is using - I have the 'mariner 4' some 8 years. No leaks, seals holding well. Very stiff and durable - used mostly in water where rocks and branches of fallen trees are hidden in shallow water. Lots of hits, no damage so far.
lucky, my mariner 4 developed leaks quite quickly. It was fine for a year, then developed seam leaks that I resealed. It's a shame too, I love that boat.
I have been real happy with mine. Got it for $220 last spring. Used it all year, a good 12 outings. Had one leak. Patched it up, it's been good. Will air it up again soon.
Every time I think how interesting would it be to have a perfect review about a specific product I have to think about your videos. You have a special talent to create interesting and objective reviews about a product. Honest, objective and realistic analysis, considering quality/price ratio, and an excellent communicator too! Bst rgds from Holland
Your concerns about durability and cracking are absolutely valid. I'm currently in patching hell with my Excursion Pro. Along the floor seam, pinholes have developed. Even when deflated, the slightest touch opens cracks a couple inches long. This area is never exposed to sunlight, and I have always cleaned and properly stored the kayak. I loved this boat new, but a little over a year in it's literally disintegrating. Six different leaks have appeared this way in the last two months.
Another great video, we have the excursion pro, the last one at the store. Our biggest gripe with it is how it doesn't track very straight with 2 ppl and the uncomfortable seats. I think how you store the kayak and how much you inflate it are the main reasons for your problems. Otherwise, I agree as long as you don't overpay, it's a great kayak
Yes! Back on the kayaks! Good man. Glad you have commented on the price inflation of inflatable kayaks since COVID.
you would hate Canada my friend, that kayak in Canada today is $429.00 + 5% tax, the top end kayaks are insanely priced. This will be my first kayak, I got it for how it reviewed on stability, capacity and durability, waiting for a nice weekend to practice. I'll be checking out your list, thank you for your time sharing your knowledge in these videos
Nice thorough review. It is appreciated. Now I will watch your other videos to learn which inflatable kayak to get.
Wow, what a relaxing video listening to the water and back drop scenery was amazing 👍 atb Taff 🤠👊
I really appreciate your videos. The new mic quality is really good too. I look forward to more!
Great information! I thought this would be the "Holy Grail" better to know up-front. --thank you.
Had my chinok 120 couple years love it,never any problem
It's not perfect but I'm still really happy with it. We have two that I bought for $150 each. Very convenient-- we fit them both in the back of the minivan and with a cordless pump have them unpacked, inflated and ready to go in 15 minutes. They've been used dozens of times, gone over rocks and branches and are still holding up fine. They can be slow in wind and currents but very stable and very easy for beginners. The inflatable seats are the biggest weakness, but I replaced them with folding stadium seats.
I don't swim so stability was an important factor for me, life jacket a must of course, Amazon one day delivery and I'll have it tomorrow. I saw lots of very good reviews on this model so I took the chance.
For the seats:
Seat valves: they only close properly if you push in the complete valve into the seat. Just putting the nippel inside ist not enough! Its pretty hard to push them really inside.
Seat uncomfortable: setup the seat back super steap maybe really a bit leant forward. The material is flexible so you only get a comfortable sitting position like this.
Complete Review Intex Excursion Pro See 👇👇
ruclips.net/video/YlYX3R5YpKE/видео.html
I want thank you for your review on this kayak I'm looking to buy to add to my colorado pontoon as a tow behind for equipment or for personal on our river trip.
I'm glad I bought this inflatable before I saw this video. Bought it at $370, very happy with it. Have gone on 3 trips, on calm to minimal swell sea-near-shore day trips. A little dragging on rocks without any obvious mark on the bottom. Maybe he got a bad batch. Highly recommended.
Great quality video and audio is really good with the new microphone
Thanks for the video. Very informative. Can't wait to try mine out. 😎🛶🏕️
I bought this on Amazon a few weeks ago. Inflated it and it had 2 small holes where it was folded, packed it up and sent it back. Disappointed. Found a van hunks new inflatable. More money but very well built. It will outlast this one by years. Thanks
Watched your video and found a one year old mint condition Excision Pro for $200 same day. Thus is my first kayak and cannot wait to try it. Look forward to participate in your meetup group.
Im planning on getting this one since we don't have Sea Eagle in Finland and their only importer doesn't answer my e-mails.
How has yours worked until now? Does it leak like his does? :) Thanks in advance.
@@Herravanrikki I just received the Excursion pro 2 person 2 weeks ago and have used it 6 times half & half rivers & lakes. With one overnight camp trip on the lake. Not a single leak. Here in Montana my local lakes stay 50 degrees or less where the kayak rides in the H2O. So the only issue is a little Re-inflating due to the major temp change from 90 degree outside temp during initial inflation. Like he said using the supplied pressure gauge is key. This kayak has been my best purchase in a long time.
Thanks for this good review with reasonable critics which we are looking for as potential buyers. Just wondering if you have any other inflatable kayak you'd recommend over this but not overly priced.
Love it!! Finally somebody with integrity!! Call them out!
Thanks for the review. I think the best kind of seat would be a folding stadium seat, if you can fit it in the kayak.
I just got this kayak and it's got some updates now. The fishing rod holders are more sturdy now, and it also comes with a phone/camera mount. I really disliked the halkey roberts valves tho, I wish they used the normal Boston valves, I see no benefit of the hr valves. I like that intex updates their old products instead of making new ones and forgetting about the old ones.
Where did you buy yours from and did you buy the two seater or one seater?
The 1 person version can be bought for about $150. $179 on Amazon.
Bought 2 spring 2020. Kayak 1 just died yesterday Oct 2021. Complete split in the side seam on the floorboard and not from over inflating. Another small leak developed around fishing pole holder. 2nd kayak floorboard weld failed also but kayak still usable but large bulge. Leak also developed on the fishing pole holder after 3rd use. Seats leaked also after 2nd season. Kayak worked well though before they died. Put it to use at the beach and freshwater. Does not work well at all in strong head winds but that is a given. **Update - was able to fix the large split with an inside & outside patch (like fixing a hernia with a mesh patch :) ) with Locktite Extreme glue and additional coating of a strong flexible pvc glue. Held air overnight and no signs of leaking with the soap test.
are you still using it
@@TheRealElectricOutdoors Warming up nicely in North Carolina so should be out on the lake for a test run soon or at the coast. --------After test run the kayak works just fine and holding air after patching which = nice day on the local lake.
Great value and very stable. Comes with everything you need to get started.
After watching your two other video reviews for inflatable kayaks, and after reading other reviews, I chose the Excursion K2, and boasted about the durability and being speedier than the other 9, I made this my first purchase. I know nothing about kayaks, but wanted something that is dependable (your comparison of categories I, II, and III helped make my decision). However, I haven't inflated it yet, but now am contemplating returning it before it's used. Being an absolute beginner with kayaking, I depended on honest reviews to make a somewhat educated decision. It seems I'm back to square one, with the addition of having to return my purchase and start again. I found your videos extremely helpful and educational, I was not aware of what a "skeg" is or what its purpose is, so thank you for that. Maybe this question can be answered; how do I make a decision on what to purchase i) that will be dependable enough that I trust it having my daughter use it ii) that is has decent "tracking" (learned that from your videos too) iii) getting the most from my money? I know anything made in China is inferior, if I want really good (or the best) quality, the cost is ridiculously expensive; I just want to feel safe and enjoy a comfortable ride and not have to worry about finding myself clinging to what would appear to be a floating blanket in the water. I don't plan to whitewater, or go over Niagra Falls, but would like something that can withstand a few whitecaps and maybe accidentally scrape the ground in unknown shallow areas once low tide sneaks up on me. Any advice? BTW, I purchased the Excursion for $193 on Amazon (Prime Day). Thanks for any input.
Man, sounds like you are suffering from the "Analisys paralisys".
The cure is to go and hit the water. In anything. Use the kayak that you do have instead of trying to find the "perfect" kayak as your first. You wont be able to. Experience is more valuable than perfection.
Excellent review. Thank you for making all of your videos. This is really good info. It wouldn't be my first Intek kayak so this sounds unusual for the brand. Hopefully they are looking into the deflation problem that seems to come straight out of the bag. That's a certain deal breaker for me.
EDIT: To clarify, I am in that 5% that actually use these for fishing. :)
Complete Review Intex Excursion Pro See 👇👇
ruclips.net/video/YlYX3R5YpKE/видео.html
I bought this kayak, it leaked, the replacement leaked, so did the replacement's replacement. It paddles nicely with the long skeg, but don't expect more than a few months out of it.
Have you tried to find and patch the leaks?
Good video J. and I agree with your assessment. I bought this kayak when it was launched (pun intended) for $190. and it's a good kayak at that point, but it's bit on the delicate side. I've babied mine and have a slow leak at the floor and still searching for it. Regarding the valves: they are proprietary and Intex does not stock them. That should be a deal killer right there. At the $400 mark, I love my Advanced Elements Island Voyage as it's build quality is outstanding as on all of their kayaks. This Voyage is also very good with tracking, glide, with one of the most comfortable kayak seats I've used and I've owned many. Fill time is fast and easy too. Generally the more you spend, the better the quality and performance.
how does your Advanced Elements Island Voyage dry? it seems it's 2 layers
@@PierreLaBaguette drys fast, 2 hours
This looks like you're right off Rooster Rock SP. Living near here (in WA) a kayak suitable for the Columbia is of huge interest to me.
Thanks for our input on this model!
He's definitely on the Columbia, in the gorge.
@J Baikoff great videos ! Thank you for taking that time to share your experiences.
if you have a minute I could use your help to decide for a first inflatable kayak.
I was ofc looking at the Excursion Pro (with all the good reviews).
But many people are also complaing about leaks (some straight out of the box , add to that poor customer service to replace it, it seems).
So I'm looking maybe at the explorer k2 instead.
From your experience with the Excursion Pro, would the explorer be a safer choice ?
I'm 6'3 for 200lb , the Excursion looked more rigid.
Hard to decide. Like I said it's a first buy so I won't go to cat3 right away.
It would be to use it twice a month from april to october.
Thank you
Complete Review Intex Excursion Pro See 👇👇
ruclips.net/video/YlYX3R5YpKE/видео.html
So helpfull, thx for all your vidéos, really help me!
Nice honest and detailed review. Would love to see you review the Sea Eagle 380X.
Complete Review Intex Excursion Pro See 👇👇
ruclips.net/video/YlYX3R5YpKE/видео.html
Another excellent video & information on this kayak.
What a great review, thanks!
Thank you for the review. I wish more people did reviews like this. What items would you recommend to put in a patch kit to keep with the kayak?
I don't generally carry a patch kit. Carry some guerilla tape. Any serious patching you'd do at home anyway
Sadly I can't get some quality Aquagilde or maybe NRS inflatable. My only available option right now is this one and 3 person kayak from Dehcatlon ITIWIT X100+.
If I see good non of this kayaks are not even close to Aquaglide quality. Is it possible to get advice on buy ?
Sry for bad English
Hey Jack. Do you know anything about the freein explore inflatable kayak? They primarily make paddle boards but the specs of this kayak seem more in line with cat 3 but for a lower price. Any help would be great. Thanks!
No, I don't. On pictures looks more like a SUP. At that point just get a SUP, that kayak design makes little sense to me - you will still get a wet butt, bit won't even be able to paddle standing up. Seems like the combination of the downsides from everything.
Wow I just can't get over how straight that thing tracks! I have used a lot of kayaks that want to turn sideways as soon as you let off paddling. But this one cruises along straight as an arrow! Check it out at the 5:30 mark for example. Just look at that wake!
In my experience it helps to have paddling experience.
thank goodness I'm looking to get one when the price came back down
Thanks you, really good review
Perfect review. Thanx a lot!
J, you mention below you enjoy helping people get out on the water so I thought I would share. My wife does not really swim, and tends to be uncomfortable on the water. But she also wanted to take up fly fishing in retirement. I like being on the water and being able to fish from a boat opens up a lot of fishing. We don't have a lot of room to store a boat. Based on your earlier video instead of buying a cheap inflatable I decided to jump in and get a good type 3. The only type 3 tandem I could find was the Chelan 140 due to covid (Aquaglide actually called around to some dealers to find it for me). What I like about this style rather than the narrower Razorlite is it is supposedly more stable, which is super important for the comfort and ease of mind for my wife. My wife really enjoys it, we paddle together, sometimes with friends, and she is now planning trips with friends, leaving me home. Wow! We even got caught out needing to cross a pretty big lake when a squall came up and we had to plow into the wind and waves, and she took it really well. I have also used it on a camping/fishing trip with my son. It has been a great purchase. So thank you very much, your video really helped us.
Thank you so much for sharing! Chelan is a great boat, and I love it too!
I just purchased the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak. Should be getting it this weekend. I mentioned this to some of my friends, and they told me the have an inflatable boat that they never use. I’m hoping this doesn’t become my situation in a years time. I do enjoy kayaking though, so I hope it works out.
I love these videos. It’s a great resource on the different products that are out there. Keep up the good work 👍
If you don't end up using your kayak, just sell it. Fortunately the market right now is quite hot, and selling them is easy.
Your videos have been very informative. This one about the Intex Excursion Pro is very enlightening. I have had one for just under a year, and it is okay. I have fished out of it a few times, as that is why I bought it. I have used it both as a single person and a tandem. It is much lighter than my sit-on-top and easier to transport. However, like you have mentioned it is not the end-all and be-all. For the non-gouging price for around $260 it is not terrible. That being said, I stupidly thought that all Boston valves were the same, and recently discovered that the Intex ones are not the same as the Boston valve fitting I have for my Seamax SUP20 electric pump for inflatables. I managed to jury-rig something with the existing fitting and use the provided tube from Intex to make it work, but that is not ideal.
Does Intex use a standard Boston valve to them (meaning that all of their kayaks use the same Intex Boston valve)? How did you jury-rig yours? How would one go about replacing the valves, and what specific model of valve?
Thanks in Advance. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Yeah, the valves are annoying, but I just use the supplied pump and don't worry about it too much.
@@inneradventures I am thinking of getting a couple of the cheaper Intex for the family so using the electric pump was to help get them out on the water faster. I can keep using my jury-rigged method, but I was hoping for some inspiration on something long-term. Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.
hi Jack,
Thank you for your videos .. If I buy this kayak for 2 people.. will it be a problem when ,using as a one paddler.(when the second person not there.) .
Generally no, I paddle tandems kayaks alone quite often.
What are your thoughts on ITIWIT x100. I bought the 3 seat version and using it for family trips and fishing alone. Only had it 2 weeks but so far I am impressed. Do you know what material it is? It could be PVC but I’m not sure.
I also bought two longer skegs that were designed for the x100 SUP. Not sure if they made difference but I want to believe it helps the straight tracking.
My thoughts are that if you are enjoying it and it serves you well that's all that matters.
If you want the reinforcement of the notion that you made the right choice - you made the right choice (given it serves you well)
I've never seen this kayak in real life. I believe it's a European one. If I'm looking at the right pictures, it seems like a classic category 2 kayak, so I would assume that it's made of thin vinyl underneath the protective fabric.
@@inneradventures Ir doesnt have fabric cover, there is an ITIWIT model wich has but I choose this one over it because of the hassle of drying them. I also use it for fishing and figured that the fabric would get dirty and messy pretty fast.
Im happy withmthe x100 and not looking to reinforce my decision. Just curious what someone with experience of other kayaks has to say :-)
Love your vids, very informative. Can you make some recommendations for pumps and seats?
Thank you. I've mentioned some general things about pumps and seats. What would you like to hear about them?
@@inneradventures Jumping in on this: have you tried replacing the inflatable seats with regular kayak seats? Does that even work? I see tons of seats for sale on Amazon.
Hi Jack,
is this intex made of better material than the Sea eagle 330?
im from Mexico and have one like this, but i wanna try the SE330
the problem i find in this is the floor, is vinyl outer and inner face, but PVC for the union, and like in my sevylor big bassin weak in the union
( after 1 year of use, 30 times in the water)
actually i have
2 sevylor big bassin
1 coleman fast back
1 sevylor K5
1 intex excursion pro
and i wanna try the SE330 to renew the fleet, or do you recomend the excursion pro?
SE 330 does not have same leak issue, but to me is a worse kayak. It sounds like it might be time for you to buy a higher quality kayak. I would prefer to own one good one over multiple crappy ones.
So we understand that you're not crazy about this kayak, mainly on it's ability to hold air and not deflate, but I would suggest mentioning maybe one or two options that might be of better quality, or are a better option. Thank you for making videos like this! Greets from Greece.
I wish there was an easy alternative. Unfortunately I am not aware of it. To stay in that budget you might have to go with Cat2 kayak and deal with drying issues.
@@inneradventures thank you sir! Appreciate the response!
@@inneradventures Great review Jack.....now that you have patched the leaks, are the 2 Excursions holding air or do the 2 Excursions still leak?....and also, is the 3rd Excursion still holding air OK?
Hello there! Thanks for these videos. Ever tried the Aqua Marina kayaks? I was wondering what were your thoughts about the Betta, Memba, and Steam K1s. If you ever get the chance to try these out... :)
Yeah, that's a brand that is gaining traction and I'd be curious to try more of their kayaks
Tkanks for the honest review!!
Please make a video on Category 2 kayaks.
I don't use them much, so I probably will not.
@@inneradventures thank you Jack. I saw from your initial review that you are not a fan of the Cat 2 kayaks.
I followed your comments on the Excursion pro and i had it in my mind to purchase it, but after your 1year review, seems not the best choice.
I am based in the super dry middle-east and a Cat 2 (space saving, light weight, much more abrasion resistant, budget friendly, not getting too wet) is really what i need (i been using a float-tube for years).
I will be using the kayak in flat, warm water and often around mangroves.
I searched for these a bit and Advanced Elements, Aquaglide and Sea Eagle are the ones popping up.
With me on the other side of the world, which of these 3 brand provide best aftersales service.
I value your honest opinion.
Thx Gerhard
Yes, not the best. But if you get it cheap it can be a decent budget option.
@@inneradventures ok cool thx!
Hi J, THank you for your reviews! I bought a K2 Explorer (havent had a chance to try it)but always think about Excursion Pro. Based on your experience, is material of Pro better than Explorer? Leaks in new kayaks is specific to Pro version or it is for all Intex kayaks? Does it worth to sell Explorer, add money and upgrade for Pro?
Good questions. In my experience Explorer is definitely a step (or three) below Excursion. Material is certainly not as thick... Buuuut... I've never heard of so many leaks on Explorers. I think those leaks are related to the process they use to weld the thick material.
Upgrading might be worth it, depending on your situation and what you want to use it for.
@@inneradventures Yeap. Material is stronger but the process of making can have some problems. Anyway, I sold Explorer and bought Pro. I pumped both to check any leaks, left inflated for the night. Looks like I am lucky, both kayaks didnt show any leaks, but I need to buy repair kit for sure.
I appreciate the video. Im curious about this kayak. Is the overall kayak firm or does it dip down under your weight? I am a big guy and I am afraid if will just dip down and bend like a banana if I sat in it. Do you think that would be an issue?
It will sag. Up to 250lb it would handle. Anything above 350 I would definitely not do.
@@inneradventures yah I think I'll keep to my Seahawk raft setup for the time being until I can get a better kayak. My friend has very inexpensive plastic kayaks and I was able to use those quite well so I might even try something like that in the future. Thanks for the reply. If you ever paddle at Rooster rock you might run into me out there throwing discs. Cheers
So if this one is not that good, which one do you recommend? Right now Challenger is selling on amazon for 175, excursion pro for $240. My Mother in law lives close to the beach and wants her grandkids to have an inflatable kayak to play on when they visit. Was going to get the excursion pro for her based on your previous video, but don't want her to worry about leaks. Any other options you would recommend?
If those are the prices Excursion Pro might still be a decent deal. I'd certainly take it over the Challenger for $175
Walmart has a new, lowered the price on the Intex Challenger K1 at $99 delivered.
www.walmart.com/ip/Intex-Challenger-K1-1-Person-Inflatable-Sporty-Kayak-Oars-And-Pump-68305EP/541557401
You can convert the rod holders into cup holders :)
Thanks for the update. Do you have some recommendations for inexpensive tandems as an alternative?
That's a great question! Depending on the price that you might be able to get it at, it might be quite a good boat. But if you're buying it at the same price as advanced elements, I say go for advanced elements.
@@inneradventures Thanks, any opinion in the Kokopelli Moki-Lite?
I'm confused now. I purchased this kayak because you called it " A different kind of beast" I your first video do you think it's work 300$ I'm confused if you actually like it or not.
I bought two of this canoes. One came with a hole, so will be replaced. So this confirms your experience I guess.
You mention bringing Gorilla tape. Do you use this as an temporary sollution for during the trip? Or do you use this as an final fix to patch the hole. The Excursion pro comes with a repair set, but I read some stories that it doesn't work very good. Any suggestions for how to best repair this kind of canoe?
Guerilla tape might be a good enough tool to quickly fix a large leak or reinforce a weak spot/fix a paddle temporaryly. I am working on the video testing various fixing products for this kayak.
I am curious about your insistance of calling it a canoe. How come?
@@inneradventures Thank you for your reply! I think I will buy Gorilla tape for 'on the road' and pvc glue to glue the Intex spare material. But if the tape is so strong, I wonder if I can even remove it.
I'm from the Netherlands, and we do distinguish kayaks from canoes, but we use the term canoe also as a general term form both canoes and kayaks. So a kayak is also a canoe. But I understand we are quite unique in this regard. :)
You can definitely remove it. It's not THAT stong
hi Jack, have you any experience with itiwit kayaks from decathlon? i am thinking about itiwit 3, its probably category 2... what you think, it is a good choice or can you recommend some others? greetings from Czech Republic ;-)
I'm not answering for Jack but I don't think Itiwit ship to the US, Decathlon are a European based company.
If you're getting a new Itiwit x100 3 person kayak it has a single skin with dropstitch floor so I'd say it's either category 3 or it's own new category for the relatively new Hybrids.
I'm pleased to see that there's a new range of hybrid kayaks being developed that have the more traditional 'tubed' sides as these offer better stability.
I have a fully dropstitch Bluewave Glider which I really like but still might replace with a hybrid as I don't feel so secure in it.
hi, i had the yellow itiwit (1p) kayak for which i paid around 200 €. it left no good impression on me because of it's poor build quality (i.e. the stiching) and tracking capability. i ended up returning it due to a leaking air chamber on the second trip. now i am with a sea eagle razorlite in my third year. so far, the experience with it has been nothing but great. cheers from germany
Itiwit has a USA subsidiary. I bought a itiwit 2_3 kayak. Love it
Hi, Ales, as people correctly pointed out, Decathlon kayaks don't reach the US. It's nice to hear from your lovely country! I'd love to visit it again sometime soon-ish.
@@KrissiBenassi Servus, danke fur deine Antwort und dass du deine Erfahrung mit itiwit teilst. Ich bin Anfanger also erstesmal will ich etwas billiger kaufen zum probieren. Wir haben in Tschechei sehr bekannte Firma (gumotex) aber ihre kayaks sind bischen teuer. Auf andere Seite muss ich sagen, die sind wirklich Spitze....
Hi Jack I'm considering this kayak, how have your two that never leaked to start off with holding up?
Only one of three did not leak.
They are holding up ok, I believe. only one is being used though...
So out of all of the inflatables kayaks you have used, which would you suggest for someone who has only done two canoe trips 15 years ago in Boy Scouts, under $250, weight limit of 400lbs (I'm 320ish currently), and can be safely used in a river which is mostly calm paddling but like many rivers for swimming/floating have downed trees and shallows where bottoming out might occur.
Also was wondering if you could give a better difference between canoe and kayak these days. The internet just gives the definition if you are looking at traditional versions of both boats which at that point I know the difference. But all I see at outdoors stores and sporting goods stores is typical canoes and molded plastic kayaks that you sit on top of or in a molded recess but with an open deck. Which I personally don't consider kayaks because they are so far from what a kayak is.
For that budget Intex Excursion Pro is pretty much your only option. A used Cat2 kayak might work too.
As far as kayak/canoe name - it's a slightly pointless to even try to figure the proper name, since we don't have a more accurate word than Inflatable kayak. it mostly is called than and not a canoe because of the seating position.
Do you have experciencs with Aqua Marina Memba or Tomahawk? Tnx if you have some info on this brand! 👍
Can I ask about the life jacket you're wearing in the video? What's the brand and where did you find it?
Hmmm... I don't know. I actually don't remember, it's been many years since I've gotten it. It's not fancy, but I like the pockets. It says Stern's on the front and "Sans-Souci II, model number SSV-165" on the sticker inside.
@@inneradventures I appreciate the information. Yes, I like the pocket style too :-)
Jack: I own a brand new excursion but lost my accessories in storage. I cannot find a valve tool for the proprietary valve. You called them out for the lack of standard Halkey valve. Any suggestions. I have ordered ten valves and tools and can’t get a fit.
it's a pain, for sure!
I want to try to replace the valves with good ones.
I am looking for a kayak for fishing. I already have an Innova Swing 2 and a Sevylor Colorado. To my surprise the Sevylor is frequently mentioned as a fishing kayak, and there is a version with pole holders and other accessories. Mine is the original version - a tandem. Most fishing kayaksd are sit-on-top types, and some are more like paddle boards. Being high is an advantage and speed is not a concern, but space is.The Colorado might work if I can find a way to raise the seat (lawn chair?!) and add a pole holder. I already have a 2x2 foot piece of plywood I place on the floor between the seats, which makes it possible to stand for flycasting. I can save a lot of money if I can make this old Colorado work. I actually have had little trouble with it - just a couple of pin hole leaks. It's tough.
Any comments? Please do a review of inflatable fishing kayaks some time (find a fishing buddy). Kayaking to fish has become very popular but I need an inflatable.
Fishing is not something I do much of, so it's highly unlikely that I will get enough experience to talk about it authoritatively enough. Sounds like you are more qualified to do that. If you can make the existing equipment work, that's probably the best option
@@inneradventures This guy has done an elaborate conversion: ruclips.net/video/vdxv0c7Vja4/видео.html I plan to do a floorboard-only job with a lawnchair. Sevylor already makes a fishing version of the Colorado to guide me. www.inflatablekayaker.com/sevylor-colorado-fishing-kayak-review/
Hey man, could you do a review of the Gumotex Thaya/Rush 2? I really like the details you give on your reviews.
Probably not. It's a European kayak. We don't have them here much.
Hey Jack. I’m just looking for something that I can take my kids on relatively calm side of the lake. Safety is my number one concern. You know something that won’t puncture in the middle of the lake. :) what would be your recommendation for something around $400?
Well puncturing in the middle of the lake is realistically not much of a concern, since there generally isn't much that can puncture a kayak in the middle (deep water). Things that can puncture are more likely to be found by the shore. And even so a puncture would usually give you enough time to react (say 20 min). $400 is not a lot of you are hoping to get something of real quality. Hoping to score something used is your best bet. Otherwise either save up more or drop your expectations.
Intex mariner 4, it's not a kayak tho. It have four air chambers, so even if one was to get punctured(which probably won't happen), you will have the other 3 keeping you afloat.
thanks for another great educational/opinion video :)
Perhaps you could do a review/best of video for higher end inflatable kayaks? like the Sea Eagle 385ft Fasttrack, 393 Razorlite, Bote zepplin, Driftsrun Rover, etc
thanks :)
Yes, that's pretty much the plan! I am working on that
@@inneradventures awesome, can't wait :)
Hi I'm new here. Was thinking to buy a first one is this good choice Bestway Ventura X2 Canoe Kayak mainly want to do sea fishing close to shore. If not what you can recommend. Sometimes around 300£ I'm base in UK. Thanks a lot
I am not well positioned to make recommendations for the British market. I am on the other side of the planet.
So, is the take away I should not replace my Aguaglide Chelan 140 with this kayak? 😃
That would be a pretty major downgrade :-)
Chelan is also 3-4 times more expensive. Intex is in the Value category, Chelan is in the Premium one.
Your kayak is the one sold by my local fishing store. What is your concern with it? Do you use it for fishing?
I found a used Aquaglide Chelan 140 for $700 with 2 carbon fiber paddles, but without pump. Do you think this is a good deal?
In the current market it is a good deal if it's in good shape. You can buy a pump for under $50
@@inneradventures thanks you for your answer! I will check it carefully
@@inneradventures hey!! I bought the kayak yesterday, it is in pretty good shape, Ended paying $550 for it and the owner gave me his pump :) . Thanks for your help
@@JPolanc0 They cost $1500 in Canada! That's over $1000 USd.
I was thinking on buying this, now I'm not so sure.. Thank you..
Love all your videos and especially your honest and knowledgeable evaluations, thank you for that!!!! such a rare thing to find nowadays.
Would you have a recommendation for a 2 person kayak? I am trying to limit my budget to 600-700 for something worth buying and keeping. I would go for plastic but storage space is an issue :)
I initially looked at Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Tandem Inflatable Kayak from REI but after your review seems like they are overpriced at the moment. I loved your review of Sea Eagle Razorlight, but i can't justify a $1,400 price tag.
Thank you!
Thank you! And Yeah, I hear you on finding a good kayak in that price range. Assuming you are in the States, I was just looking at Aquaglide website and got reminded that they have a Cat3 kayak that's more budget because they skipped inflatable floor - Aquaglide Deschutes.
@@inneradventures Thank you, Jack! I checked the Deschutes 145 and then noticed Navaro 145. Navaro seems to have the Drop-stitch Floor and is just $45 more expensive. Would you say that it is a better option (the price differential, in this case, is not material if compared to the price of the kayak). Also, I live in California, do you think it would handle some ocean kayaking on a calm day?
Manny thanks!!!!
I don't have direct experience with Navarro. But generally have always been happy with Aquaglide
@@inneradventures Hi Jack, if you were to choose between raizorlite 473 and Chelan 155, which one would you go for?
Thank you!!!!!
@@Dennis.D There was a review done where someone timed all the Aquaglide products around a course, I am having trouble finding it -it was done about a year ago. The fastest kayak tested in their lineup was the Deschutes 130 and I'm quite sure a Navarro was in there. I do remember that the Noyo 90 was the slowest. It was part of what made me pick a Deschutes. After doing about 50 miles in mine now with many more planned to go, I will say it's weight is fantastic, and I highly recommend it if you ever want to backpack to more secluded lakes. It is also easy to set up and dries out quickly. I tend to paddle with someone who has a Sea Eagle Razorlite and it is considerably slower than that, but I keep up well enough to have a good time on the water. I do know from experience it is much faster than a Sevylor K5 and comfortably faster than an Intex Challenger k1 (as it should be). It is durable too, as I land and launch from rocks all the time.
All those leaks seems odd. You considered that cold water, is decreasing air temperature and causing it to loose pressure due to that. So do they loose pressure in first 30 minutes and then stabilize. If so temp might worth considering.
It's actual leaks. I've located most of them with bubbles. When you have one side of the kayak half-deflated and other one fine it's certainly not temperature related.
wouldnt some kind of audible pressure whistle on the valve that would indicate the correct pressure be a good idea
I'm not sure what the advantage over a pressure gauge would be.
If I can get this kayak now for around $220 should I go for it or maybe Challenger for $85?
Or maybe better to have the K2 for two person instead of K1 (either of them)?
Yeah, tough choices. Challenger K2 is not ideal, imho
@@inneradventures finally picked Explorer K2, will see how it performs :D
Thanks for you videos, they are the best on YT about this topic.
Check out the elkton steelhead. It's the cheapest kayak I found that has a drop stitch floor. Runs about $900 rn.
I saw pictures of it, it looks like a knockoff off Aquaglide Chelan. And Chelan is a great boat.
It has been about 18 months since this excellent "expose". now that a lot more have been sold I am wondering
1) how common the leakage fault is, was it just the single seater Excursion Pro, or did it include the K2?
2) could it have been a batch fault a few years ago and is now rectified.
Has anyone had a comment from Intex? Most companies would have initiated some damage control strategies to protect the brand and not continued "more of the same"
All kayaks I had were K2 (tandems)
Intex is so huge they don't care about small fish like me.
I hope it was a batch issue, but based on multiple reviews i hear it does not appear so.
The product is still worth considering.
Because of you I stopped buying 3 of this!! You saved me money and frustrations
Thanks for the info.
I have 2 of these Excursion Pros and 2 Yellow Explorer K2s.
I find it infuriating I cannot find a proper extra pump, electric pump, or pump adapter for the Excursion Pros. I like to do longer remote trips and want to have extras of everything I carry and repair kits. Lucky we have 2 of these kayaks and have the 2 included pumps in case one breaks.
Please let us know If you find a replacement pump, or adapter or some other alternative.
Maybe there is a way to upgrade/change the valves over to the standard size Halkey-Roberts valves.
Traveling tandem is key for emergency with inflatables. I am also carrying an Explorer 200 series boat, it's a cheap 20 dollar intex 2 person vinyl "boat". I figure I can tow myself or gear if i get stranded and have to hitch with someone else. It is very cheap insurance.
That is a shame your floor blew out, I will keep that in mind and be cognisant to not over inflate it. I generally have just inflated mine so they are firm to the touch and never had an issues except a pinhole on one of the K2s, not sure what that is from though. The K2s have survived many seasons and have spent 2 or 3 north east winters on the porch in their bags. No real issues on several camping trips. Many dozens of trips have been had.
I really hope the Explorers will hold up and more parts become available. K2s seem like a great buy if you can get them around $100. Intex's price fluctuation on amazon is really worrysome to me, it makes me really dislike the business practices of intex.
The reason I initially went with inflatables is because they were really cheap and easy enough to replace if damaged. The K2s were $80 when we got them! Now they are more than double the cost and are never in stock. I hope they can get it together or someone else comes along and fills this market void and comes out with some competition. It is unfortunate because so many friends want to get into kayaking and they are either too expensive or unavailable. It was fantastic when they were cheap.
You prefer Pro or explorer mate?
@@jonfrderick @Jonfrederick Lilley I have had more trips in the Explorer because it is older. No real issues. I have more peace of mind knowing I can bring along an extra pump and parts for the Explorer. The Pro is a better experience, though. The pro is nicer to use and just feel sturdier. I do not like how the Pro has special valves and no replacement pump. I suppose I prefer the pro at this point because I have had no issues with the pump, but it's an issue always on my mind. It would suck to get a leak, get to shore to patch it, then have the pump break. One-is-none, 2-is-one...... I like having a backup pump with me for trips with some distance.
@@blahblahyepyep I have the exact issue with the valves because I lost (storage) my pump. My kayak is brand new and never been in the water. I have tried tons of valve adapters and valve tools and can’t get a match. I am going to try to replace with real Halkey Robert’s valves.
I'd love to see a review of the aqua glide Deschutes series and the Kokopelli series. What do you think jack?
Yeah, I am interested in both of those too. I got a little more familiar with the Deschutes last weekend, and my excitement about it lessened. As far as kokopelli goes, I'm still yet to see one in real life.
Oh no. I'm wondering what you did not like about the Deschutes. Is it a category 2 in your opinion? Anyway perhaps one day you'll do a video on the Deschutes and Kokopelli. Thanks for your reviews. Good to know not to inflate too high.
Deschutes is Cat3. I discovered Deschutes 145 has no option for solo paddling, and also is a bit slower than I hoped.
@@inneradventures thanks again Jack. It's odd because the 145 is supposed to be tandem or solo. I bought the 110 and find it stable and easy enough set up but the fin is a pain to put on. However, it does seem slow, but I have no experience with any other kayak. The one thing I note is that anyone over 5ft9 should get 130 because no adjustable footrest. One last question - do you keep a pump with you for day paddle? Mine is huge so I cannot bring it. Thanks for reply. I'll look for future videos from you.
In most cases I don't bother with carrying pumps, other than with Intex excursion Pro, which proved itself to be prone to leaking
First off, I just want to thank you for getting me on the water. After watching your choosing a kayak video, I decided to buy one. I had no idea how accessible it was to go kayaking. I almost bought one of these but the price shot up to over $400, and I didn't feel like it was worth that much money. I decided to just try things out and ended up with an Intex Tacoma k2, which is almost the same kayak as the Explorer (just a different color it seems). With the money saved, I decided to also get an Explorer so I could bring friends and family out as well.
I'm wondering in your experience, how much life I can expect out of the explorer/tacoma? I'm obviously not expecting years but after watching this video, it has me wondering if it's going to have similar issues.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I am so glad to be helping people get on the water! That is my ultimate goal and joy. If you don't overinflate, treat gently and don't store in extreme temperatures, I'd hope to get 10+ years out of those kayaks.
@@inneradventures Thanks for the reply Jack, I actually didn't expect that answer, very cool. Being out on the water has been very therapeutic and has opened up a world of possibilities. Keep up the great content my friend! I'm certain you've helped many people take the leap!
@@inneradventures I can get the excursion pro for the same price as explorer in my area, which is more comfortable and a better buy? Thank you man
@@jonfrderick what area is that? I'd love to pick up an excursion pro to go with my explorer k2.
@@kabir01 Gumtree Norwich
At this price range why not go for the Sea Eagle 330 or 370? It's a simple boat but the material is good and they're durable and paddle very well for what they are.
In my opinion SE 330 or 370 is far inferior to this.
I really dont understand why some people like them. they should be a $150 kayak.
Are the Intex Excursion Pro K2 inflatable kayaks drop stitched?
No. The only two fully drop stitch kayaks in this country are Raxorlites and Airvolution.
@@inneradventures Thank!
Can you do a review of the Aquaglide Navarro 130 or 145?
If I get my hands on one, I will!
This video was released 3/21/21...pretty much the height of the supply chain fiasco. A year later, 3/31/22 and they are $281, so I think your original review is valid
wait for the Summer to start. Denand is quite likely to drive prices up.
thanks!
I have just purchused one. It seams that intex updated this kayak and improved Quality. This kayak has much better Quality feeling then k2 explorer.
Do you have experience with the old and new version of this kayak?
No, only new version. I saw many reviews on RUclips before my purchase, and I know that my Kayak is upgrade version. For example, removable plastic fising rod and gopro holders, are completly different (more practical) on new version, and the sam I can say for kayak bag. I have had around 50 sea trips this summer, and completly satisfied. Except pedals (vhich could be beter), I have no Complaints. Great kayak!
where did you get your lifevest from? or which brand is it?
If you search earlier comments I answered this question (can't remember now)
@@inneradventures thanks, great videos by the way. You really helped me making my decision to buy a kayak (and which). Greetings from Germany
Mine was ripped open from the bottom. The material is quite thin. Hopefully, I can patch it ... The seats are particularly bad ... (often leak)
Is that the seat or the boat floor. Blow up seats are useless anyway. Good riddance. Welcome to floor sitting.
Floor tears:
Doubt you'll be able to repair a a floor/hull bottom tear. Pinhole yes, tear no. Your weight is stressing those bladders far more than the ring bladders.
Buy or find an old styrofoam and covered boogie board. Use that as the seat floor. Your yak will live to see another season.
I ripped out a floor on an underwater spike, and used the boat this way for another 18 months.
I still use the board as a floor in the replacement boat, as those air floors sag horribly if not the drop stitch type.
@@STho205 It's the boat floor. The seats were bulged/sagged too. I will try the alternative floor idea. Thanks!
I had bought this, watched this video shortly after, and initiated a return before it even arrived. I went with a sea eagle 370 instead
Great. Sea Eagle 370 is not my favorite either, although people seem to like them :-)
cool video
Protip: forgot gorilla tape. Get Zip Systems tape @ a home builder store. It's a construction grade tape that is essentially permanent. The adhesive is 10x better than Gorilla.
Does anyone know where I can buy an electronic pump that fits the intex excursion pro kayak valve?
That's a tough one. I can't even find their manual pump. You can only buy it with a kayak.
@@inneradventures ok thanks.
Have you checked out the Elkton Outdoors inflatables?
Only online haven't seen them in real life
HI Jack, As many others have commented I enjoy and learn from your videos. I am 80 years old and have 4 hard shell Kayaks. I was wondering if you have tried the recent Costco Tobin Wavebreaker Kayak . It's presently priced at $199. I had a Sea Eagle for many years.before it got slashed in a class 2 run. I'm looking for another inflateable for our Van Life. The $199 appeals to me for the short run use when I'm on the road. Thanks.
The yellow/dark grey one? I've seen it in action and am not too impressed. It's not horrible. Just not good.
@@inneradventures Thanks. I guess it's back to the drawing board.
@@inneradventures Hi Jack. I bought that costco tobin kayak but not used yet...I was hoping you could explain what you mean by not horrible but not good so I can understand what is wrong and right with it? Your videos are King btw.