We at Bestkayakreviews.net have put together a comprehensive list of the best kayak reviews around. We have designed all of our reviews around what the end purchaser should expect when buying a kayak from a particular brand. We have done this by going in-depth with the top features of each boat. While critiquing them comparatively with other competitor kayaks in that chosen category. Below you will find our review of the inflatable kayak the Intex Challenger K1 kayak.
Before Purchasing An Inflatable Kayak
If you have limited space to the point where it is out of the question to purchase an actual polyethylene hulled kayak. Then an Inflatable kayak may be for you! They provide purchasers with the ease of transport from home to site without the hassle of loading it up on a car or van.
As such, an inflatable kayak can be a very good choice for those with families as the condensed storage space needed provides room for other essentials.
Although there is the obvious issue of having to inflate these types of kayaks this is a relatively easy process which can be completed in a matter of minutes. However, these will be further discussed in the paragraphs pertaining to the advantages and disadvantages of the Intex Challenger K1 kayak.
Specifications Of The Intex Challenger K1
- Length: 9ft
- Width: 30in
- Depth:
- Weight: 24lbs
- Capacity: 220lbs
- Type: Inflatable
- User/s: Single
Materials Of The Kayak
Intex has a long history in the world of inflatables as they have produced products for pool resorts and mattress manufacturers. As such, there is no better company when it comes to inflatable kayaks as with forty years of experience within this lucrative industry they have excelled to new heights.
As such, their Intex Challenger K1 kayak is no different as it is produced from a durable sheet of vinyl which has been welded in place to make sure that the kayak does indeed keep its shape intact while on the water.
As you would expect the kayak is relatively lightweight as it is mostly filled with air but Intex have gone further. They have included an ‘I beam’ which ensures that the kayak stays rigid even if the user is of a larger disproportion.
It is also worth stating that the vinyl is colored in fluorescent green and navy blue which is pleasing to the eye. Many individuals who had never seen an inflatable kayak were impressed by the color scheme and the markings included.
The Comfiest Inflatable Seat For Kayaks
As with any kayak regardless of its type or brand, it is important to take note of the comfortability of the seat or chair you will be sitting in for potentially extended periods of time. As such, the Intex Challenger K1 kayak’s seat does live up to the hype of its predecessors. As the seat is designed so that it is oversized and larger than necessarily needed. We found the seat to be comfortable over both short and long periods time.
It is also worth noting that you can adjust the air pressure of the seat if you wish it to be softer or harder depending on your personal preferences.
Although, we must say that it does lack the functional additions of adjustability of the seat as you do not have the option to raise, lower, move forward or back and therefore for larger men it can be uncomfortable for them as the back support offered by the seat is minimal.
We would, therefore, recommend this to those of a recreational disproportion who will use it for a shorter amount of time.
Storage Options Of The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
The Intex Challenger is no different from any other inflatable kayak as they do usually lack the options of storage that a tradition or angler kayak might have. However, Intex has taken the precaution of installing a netted bungee tie-downs on the bow of the kayak.
This does allow for a limited amount of storage for those which need to keep their daysack or maybe a small amount of fishing gear on with them. As previously mentioned, the mesh will secure most items safely but I would be careful with sharp objects that are to be stored at they could potentially puncture the vinyl material of the kayak.
Advantages Of The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
- Inflating the kayak is an easy task
- The lightweight nature of the kayak means it is suitable for everyone
- Great as a family holiday item
- The price is very reasonable considering what is included within it. (Kayak, Pump, Paddle and puncture repair kit.
- Fin insert really does improve the tracking of the kayak
Disadvantages Of The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
- This is a recreational kayak
- It is not suitable for rough waters or the open sea
- It does not do well over long distances and is best suited for 1/2hours of usage as it will need inflation top-up
- As with any inflatable kayak, you do run the risk of a puncture while out on the water
Easy Assembly Of The Inflatable Kayak
Conveniently within the price of the kayak. Intex has included a pump system which can be used to inflate the Challenger k1. The pump is very good value as it does perform well with the task at hand. It has a double-action which allows for it to inflate the kayak on both the up and down intakes which save energy and time. The final point to be made is that the kayak pump is relatively small in comparison to other brands, therefore, is easy to stow away when not using it.
Performance On The Water
Overall, the Challenger K1, does perform well on the water for an inflatable kayak. By using the fin provide it does improve both the tracking and maneuverability of the kayak. I would therefore highly recommend using it wherever possible. Other than this, the paddle is solid and helps you get the best out this kayak. The strokes feel solid in the water and provides great traction and speed. Again, I would state that this is a recreational kayak and should be treated as such, with any luck this can be used for any number of years by all different ages of the family.