Oru's custom-shaped float bags fit securely in the bow and stern compartments, and include flexible valve stems for easy inflation. Some reviewers, Outside Online included, have noted early holes forming in the neoprene covering that fits over the end of the kayak. These seem to be fine and obviously a perfect fit for the Oru. You can still see all customer reviews for the product. Neither pack is compatible with the tandem model, the Haven. There is no additional cost to you and the decision to buy something is up to you. If you’re considering a folding kayak in particular, we think the Oru is the top of the line in this class. and I feel a lot more secure knowing that if I should ever take on too much water that my kayak will not sink to the bottom of a murky lake or river. It’s the best one for most situations. A fully unfolded Oru Beach LT. Photo by Hannah Weinberger. It’s the kayak you’d take down a quick moving river, for an easy day on the lake, or on a multi-day adventure. This kayak doesn’t come with float bags. Others have complained of hardware not holding up after not a lot of use. If pricing is part of your decision, think about where you’re likely to kayak, how long you want to boat, and whether rental resources are available there. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. Tow Float (£21) The pioneer of tow floats and dry bags, the Swim Secure product range is the largest selling in the UK. Just a quick-clamp connector allow What is remarkable about Oru Kayak Float Bags is that it does not get … Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means we may receive a small percentage of any purchase you make. They’re made in the US, which presumably costs more, and they serve a very specific purpose. *Note: Float Bags are sold in sets of Paddling.com has consumer reviews from people who bought and used the Bay ST and the Bay+ models (the Bay+ model is no longer available). We write mission-driven gear reviews. Note that the pack is not compatible with the tandem model, the Oru Haven. For adventurers that live out of an RV, an Oru will tuck nicely away, making it great for life on the road. And finally, if you’re a design-focused buyer, they’re cool; they look like life-size folded origami on the water and are sure to start conversations with fellow paddlers. I have the Bay kayak and these fit perfectly. I have no fear of jabbing and if I ever do, there is Gorilla Glue and duct tape. But fear not, we don't allow our judgment to be influenced by these arrangements! They are good quality, easy to inflate and deflate, and designed to specifically fit the Oru's shape. Previously, upgraded models were available of the Bay ST and Beach LT versions, but those have been taken off the market in place of optional extras that you can add on to each of the models currently available. Disassembly seems quicker, with most people eventually getting their time down to five or ten minutes. If you want a well-made kayak that you can store in your closet, it’s going to cost you. With a new Origami fold pattern, the Inlet is Oru's lightest and smallest kayak. Outside Online also noted that “tabs and buckles wear out with regular use.” Overall, we’ve found that most people have said that their well used kayaks have held up as expected. Photo courtesy Kate Hoch. The Bay ST is the original do-it-all kayak designed for casual cruising, fishing, long day paddles, and overnight trips. Since the original launch, they’ve added and redesigned models to their lineup, which currently sits at five different options available: the Bay ST, the Beach LT, the Coast XT, the Inlet, and a tandem model, the Haven. It’s best suited for beginners and first-time kayakers. Great idea to have in case you flip. The Beach LT, Haven, and Inlet models are not skirt compatible. Sure, you can rent a kayak, but over time that can make a significant dent in your wallet and you have to operate around a rental company’s schedule. It’s not the one beginner paddlers should choose. Gear Junkie founder, Stephen Regenold, took the Bay ST model on the water for some thorough testing. Reviewed in the United States on February 25, 2019. While float bags are not mandatory or required by law, there is a very good reason that they are recommended with Oru Kayaks. Oru kayaks also come with a 30-day guarantee. Featuring a lightweight fiberglass shaft and super-tough ABS plastic blades, the paddle is truly customizable. Or, take Outside Online’s advice and “wear a life jacket for a little extra padding.”. Our custom-shaped float bags fit … But, if you want something with more utility that will provide more enjoyment on different types of water, we think a folding Oru kayak is the way to go. FEATURES Custom-designed for the bow and stern compartments of all the Oru Kayaks Extendable Good safety option. These bags aren’t really any help in keeping the kayak afloat, but in the event of a capsize, float bags are what help displace water and keep your Oru kayak from filling up … Weinberger told me that they’re rated for 20,000 folds, which I confirmed on Oru’s website. This page works best with JavaScript. The quality is quite decent, and it does help with keeping the kayak somewhat afloat. Oru Float Bags, Pair $ 40.00 Excl. Oru Kayak Review The hull is incredibly hard, almost like a rotomolded kayak. Before you purchase, it might be worth it to see if you can’t test one close to where you live. Your recently viewed items and featured recommendations, Select the department you want to search in, Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2020. Oru FLOAT BAGS The Oru Float Bags are a set of bags that allow the kayak to stay afloat and remain maneuverable if you capsize or take on water. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. It has a compact design and it is puncture-resistant too. If you frequently rent kayaks, over time it might pay itself off (Editor’s note: we researched kayak rental prices and found rates that ranged were ~$50-100 per day. Here are the accessories we think are worth purchasing: The Oru Paddle (or the Oru Carbon Paddle, which is almost a pound lighter) isn’t necessary to paddle the boat, any paddle will do. The front of the Bay ST Oru kayak has a place to store a spare paddle. I was wondering if there is anything yall would recommend to make it a more comfortable ride. At Treeline, we want you to buy right the first time. The Oru Pack and Oru Inlet Pack are heavy-duty nylon backpacks that makes transportation and carrying a cinch (in fact, it’s needed for airline travel). Although (almost thankfully) they have yet to have been put to the test as I have not capsized my kayak (so far) after its first week of use. Excellent item. But float, they do! For those with limited storage space or small vehicles that want a kayak that can go from the beach to the river, it’s a solid choice that can extend into overnight travel.”, Outside Online echoed these sentiments, saying that if “you don’t have much storage space, then yes, this is the boat for you. Oru sells their own set, but Outside Online says that any set will do. The Oru Float Bags are a set of bags that allow the kayak to stay afloat and remain maneuverable if you capsize or take on water. The integrated track system supports accessories such as cup holders and fishing rods. Michelle told me that when she first tried an Oru Kayak in Oslo, Norway, she too was genuinely worried as to whether it would float! All rights reserved. It was such a thrill to be out there on the bay on these beautiful, innovative kayaks with views of the Anzac Bridge, the Harbour Bridge and the Centrepoint Tower. But that's where the search for the best dry bag for kayaking starts. For those new to kayaking that still want the experience of longer, overnight expeditions, the Bay ST should hold all the gear required while offering easier manageability. Learn more. Like the nylon skirt, it is designed to fit the Coast XT and Bay ST models only. We think a repair kit for essential gear is, well, essential. Not exactly a reason to purchase, but a cool added feature if you’re out on the water at night. If you’re on the fence about whether an Oru is right for you, weigh the pros and cons listed above and see if it fits in with your lifestyle. Reviewed in the United States on February 25, 2019. The ORU behaved in a predictable manner both kayaking out and surfing back to the beach. A must have if you don’t want to get wet. Please make sure that you are posting in the form of a question. If you travel frequently or live life on the road they can be checked on an airplane easily or stored in an RV without taking up too much space. A lengthwise view of the Oru kayak on the water, with the Space Needle in the distance. If you live in a small space, it’s likely not feasible to store a traditional 12-foot kayak in your home. We are proud to be independent. Beware: depending on the modification, this may void the one-year Oru warranty. However, in comparison to other top of the line rotomolded kayaks that serve similar purposes, the cost is about the same. They are good quality, easy to inflate and deflate, and designed to specifically fit the Oru's shape. They come folded up in a backpack and are pretty easily assembled into 12-16 ft long, sea faring vessels. The Haven is Oru's tandem model, but it is also easily converted to a single seater. CUSTOM-DESIGNED: Specifically designed for the bow and stern compartments of all the Oru Kayaks, these float bags are a perfect fit ADD EXTRA BUOYANCY: While Oru Kayaks are naturally buoyant and won’t sink even when submerged, float bags keep you afloat and maneuverable if you capsize or take on water The Beach LT model is for light, easy kayaking. Photo by Hannah Weinberger. Good quality and fit, Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2017. There were a number of reviewers on Paddling.com and Amazon who said that at around 200 lbs and 6 ft, they found the Oru kayaks to be too small for comfort. Outside Online's IndefinitelyWild team spent a year with the Bay ST, putting it through some serious adventuring. Read our story on The Best Yoga Mats. For most people that enjoy kayaking, the main drawbacks to owning a kayak are storage and transportation. These are inexpensive, small, and easy to stuff in my dry bag in between kayak outings. Because they’re lightweight and sleek, you can paddle as fast as a traditional kayak. Oru Paddle in White The Oru Paddle in bright white is designed to break down into 4 pieces and easily stows with your Oru Kayak when it's in box form. Bunes beach, Photo by Kristoffer Vandbakk I also spoke via email with outdoor journalist Hannah Weinberger, who recently test-paddled the Beach LT and Bay ST kayaks for an hour and a half on Lake Union in Seattle, Washington. Every boat has a breaking point when it comes to secondary stability--the point at which it will flip over when turned on edge. It’s a longer, heavier model that can pack more gear and is made for serious expeditions. Oru Kayak Review: The verdict From a practical point of view, the low weight of portability of the Beach LT is a dream for people with small cars and limited storage facilities. The 25-40 pound, made in California Oru kayaks pack down to medium suitcase size that can be carried on the back (their exact packed down dimensions are 33 in x 12 in x 29 in). Our entire review team is impressed by the Float 22's comfort and performance on the descent. Photo courtesy Kate Hoch. Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2018. A little small— Doesn’t quite keep the kayak afloat well enough to self rescue, Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2019. Oru Kayak Gear Chat: Float Bags for Your Oru Kayak - YouTube It might be that Oru’s secondary stability takes some practice to master. Unfortunately, we have all failed at trying to keep our supplies from getting damp. The design seems more difficult to manufacture than most traditional kayak’s moldable bodies. Given the cost, the Oru isn’t good for everybody. Because of its translucent exterior, the Oru illuminates at night with the help of some added lights. The original orange tow float is also available in pink, which we tested. Each model is designed for a specific purpose, and they can handle everything from light beginner paddling to experienced paddling in challenging conditions. Overall I'd say get this Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2019. Floatation Airbags for your kayak or canoe, float bags are available in different sizes by Palm or Peak or RUK for your bow or stern of your kayak or your canoe, helps displace water in the event of your kayak being full of water while Origami Boat: Oru Folding Kayak Review, Gear Junkie, 45 Miles, 2 Nights: Pushing the Limits of a Foldable Kayak, Gear Junkie, Review: Oru Kayak’s Coast Model, Misadventures Mag, 365 Days in the Oru, the World's Most Interesting Portable Kayak, Outside Online, Here’s the New Tricked Out Version of the Origami Inspired Oru Kayak, Wired. The tester balancing and standing in the Oru Beach LT and holding the Oru paddle. The Haven also has the largest hull of Oru's kayaks. tax Paddle with confidence in open water! These in my stern on my Jackson zen, they are recommended with Oru kayaks arent the most in 's! Advice and “ wear a life jacket for a casual lake float, a packraft will do than. 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