This blog page contains posts relating to gear and clothing reviews
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Sandbanks Style has developed a reputation for producing inflatable kayaks that offer excellent value for money, but two of their most popular models – the Optimal and the Explorer – are aimed at slightly different paddlers. At first glance, both kayaks appear similar. They both use drop-stitch technology and both are designed to
COMPARISON OF SANDBANKS STYLE EXPLORER AND OPTIMAL KAYAKS Read More »
CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION The Sandbanks Style Explorer is a high-pressure, full drop-stitch inflatable kayak. Available in single, tandem and triple versions, the Explorer has become a popular choice amongst families, recreational paddlers, anglers, and anyone looking for a versatile inflatable capable of handling rivers, lakes, canals, and sheltered coastal waters. The Explorer kayak was provided
SANDBANKS STYLE EXPLORER SOLO KAYAK REVIEW Read More »
CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION The Sandbanks Style Optimal Solo Kayak has built a strong reputation as one of the closest things to a hard-shell experience in an inflatable package. It promises stability, tracking, and decent speed due to the full drop stitch construction while remaining portable enough for everyday paddlers. In this review, I’ll break down
SANDBANKS STYLE OPTIMAL SOLO KAYAK REVIEW Read More »
This review is of the Itiwit X100 kayak, 2 or 3 person model. It evaluates the kayak and compares it with both the smaller 1 or 2 person model and also with other inflatable kayaks you may wish to consider.
ITIWIT X100 2 OR 3 PERSON KAYAK REVIEW Read More »
If you are interested in buying a full drop stitch inflatable kayak like the Sandbanks Optimal and want to know our views on them then read our review which covers:
• the set up, deflation and cleaning of the kayak
• the drop stitch construction of this type of kayak
• build quality
• How it performs on the water, AND
• the pros and cons of this type of full drop stitch kayak
REVIEW OF SANDBANKS STYLE OPTIMAL KAYAK Read More »
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION The Story Division 1 kayak is a full drop stitch inflatable kayak sold by a company called Euroskateshop. It is a 3 panel drop stitch kayak and hence has essentially the same type of construction and hull shape as a number of other brands of such kayaks such as the Sea Eagle Razorlite,
REVIEW OF STORY DIVISION 1 KAYAK Read More »
This is my review of the Itiwit X100 1-2 person inflatable kayak. Itiwit has since rebranded as Tribord and this kayak is almost the same as the Tribord 100 Comfort kayak.
ITIWIT X100 1 or 2 PERSON KAYAK REVIEW Read More »
CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION If you paddle through British winters, gnarly whitewater, or long wet days on the water, you quickly learn a simple truth: cold legs ruin good sessions. Dry trousers can keep your feet and legs dry and therefore warm so can make a huge difference between being able to continue paddling in comfort
REVIEW OF NOOKIE PRO BIB DRY TROUSERS Read More »
CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION If you paddle in colder or wetter conditions, choosing the right pair of dry trousers can make or break your day on the water. The Palm Atom Bib Pants are a popular choice among kayakers, canoeists, and SUP paddlers who want dependable leg and foot protection without committing to a full drysuit.
REVIEW OF PALM ATOM BIB PANTS Read More »
contents 1. INTRODUCTION Dry trousers can make a massive difference when undertaking paddling in colder weather since they not only keep your legs draw you but also keep your feet dry as long as they have inbuilt waterproof socks. The Nookie Evolution were the first dry trousers that I purchased for coldweather kayaking and my
REVIEW OF NOOKIE EVOLUTION TROUSERS Read More »
CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION A Personal Flotation Device (‘PFD’) is an essential piece of kayaking kit. They provide you with assistance to stay afloat should you end up in the water and in that sense they could potentially save your life. The NRS cVest Mesh back PFD’s generally seem to retail for about £60-£100 in the
REVIEW OF NRS CVEST MESH BACK PFD Read More »
CONTENTS 1. Introduction The Aquatec ‘Ottowa’ kayak is a full drop stitch inflatable kayak supplied by a company called Networld Sports Ltd. Since it is constructed of drop stitch technology, it is very rugged and has the feel and performance similar to a SUP or hardshell kayak, yet it can be deflated and packed up
AQUATEC OTTOWA KAYAK REVIEW Read More »
