Kayaks are considered fast and manoeuvrable, but the bulky hard-shell version can only be used on larger sailing boats or trimarans with sufficient storage space. Decathlon promises with the Itiwit Strenfit X500 a model that is easy to transport, quick to set up and space-saving to stow away in addition to its good driving characteristics.
The kayak comes in a large rucksack bag, which is ideal for travelling short distances in a practical and energy-saving way. On longer journeys, however, the bundle with the narrow, unpadded shoulder straps is a real test for your back and shoulders. Measuring 94 x 50 x 27 centimetres, the packed boat can be easily stowed in most back boxes or in the dog's bunk.
The 3.80 metre sea kayak can be set up in less than ten minutes, even on the foredeck. It may have to be laid a little over the railing. It is advisable to memorise how the rubber sausage is folded so that it can be easily stowed in the pack sack again later. With an optional double-stroke hand pump, the five air chambers are quickly filled to capacity and the boat becomes extremely rigid, which is a great advantage. This is due to the drop-stitch construction method, which is also used for inflatable SUPs. Once the seat and adjustable footrests have been fitted, the kayak is ready for use.
This is how much the Decathlon kayak costs
The best way to get on and off is via the bathing platform or the bathing ladder. The handling is quite stable and speed can be built up quickly. However, the kayak does not have a foot-operated rudder blade or the option of attaching fins, which makes it difficult to steer straight ahead, especially in windy conditions and currents, or to turn. Experienced paddlers can compensate for this shortcoming by anchoring, a technique used to tilt the boat onto its side.
Once you have mastered this, there is nothing to stop you having fun and even landing on the beach is no problem. The maximum load of the agile single-seater including driver is 125 kilograms. Equipment can be stowed under the luggage net at the front and in a splash-proof storage compartment at the rear. The rubber speedster is robustly built and, thanks to its five air chambers, retains sufficient buoyancy even in the event of a leak. Price: 690 euros (without paddle, pump and spraydeck) >> available here. Also available as a two-seater (1,240 euros).
