Monday, November 10, 2008

Spitfire Kayak

Spitfire Kayaks have introduced their first model on to the market and I just had a chance to get it out on the water. Spitfires were designed to introduce people to kayaking at a very affordable price. The boat is fully equipped and has a lot of nice features for the money--mounted seat back, sculpted footbraces, stern deck bungees, drain plug, and carrying handles. The molding of the boat is extremely clean compared to other models at the same price. What a looker too!




I wish they made these when I was looking for my first kayak on my grade school allowance!
I found the boat stable and easy to maneuver. Best of all it fits right in the back of the SUV, truck or van. Now there is no excuse for not being a paddler!



Eddyline Journey Review




I've been paddling Eddyline's new Journey. At 15'6" and 24" wide, this is the perfect hybrid for both touring and day to day paddling. Eddyline uses the larger cockpit on this boat which can be equipped with or without thigh braces. The boat fit me perfectly with thigh braces (5'11" 170 lbs). Eddyline's new seat system (pictured below) allows for the paddler to customize fit and boat trim by moving the seat forward or back. I really like that this seat can be adjusted for forward lean and seat back height on the fly. For those who like a clean boat, you can even remove the entire seat for cleaning or maintenence.




The Journey was quite manueverable, edged with ease, and accelerated like any touring kayak should. The Journey is equipped with an adjustable skeg which can help with wind management in bigger water. I found that I only needed to use the skeg slightly in a downwind or quarter down wind. The adjustable seat can also help with adjusting your trim for the day. There is also ample storage for weekends or lighter expeditions.


The Journey combines the sensibility and fit of the Equinox with a lot of the performance chararistics of the Fathoms. Another great boat to help round out the line!