So You Bought A Box Store Kayak and Love It. Whats Next?
Vložit
- čas přidán 3. 06. 2024
- Here is my seven minute sales pitch for the Feelfree Aventura range, and honestly Rec Touring Kayaks in general. If you love your box store kayak, and you're ready to take paddling to the next level, this kayak should be the next kayak you look at....
Here are 5 things to consider when shopping for your next kayak:
1. Speed is important! No we're not racing, but think of your body as a tank of fuel. A Cheap rec kayak may get you 5 miles a tank, something with better hull speed will give you 8 miles per tank. (Also why a good paddle is a must!)
2. Deck-lines, Bungee, and swim toggles. If you're in the water you don't want to wrestle a wet bean, you want to be able to safely and easily grab ahold of your kayak. Deck lines make it easyer to grab a hold of your kayak and move around to you're cockpit. It also makes it easy for a supporting paddler to stabilize you as you're getting in the kayak. Bungees make it easy to store items on your deck like gloves, water bottle or bilge pump.
3. Skeg or a Rudder. These help you track and control your kayak when the wind, tide, current pick up. A rudder allows you to steer with your feet, and a skeg allows you to set the tracking, and control the kayaks weathercocking. This equals more time with your paddle in the water, moving your forward instead of keeping you straight.
4. Thigh braces: The more connected to your kayak you are the easier it is to control. Think about doing something that takes dexterity with your hands... Now do that same thing in ski gloves that are two sizes too big. A kayak that fits you and touches your feet, butt, back, hips, and thighs becomes an extension of you and is much easier to get to do what you. This is the biggest advancement you'll notice when making the jump. You're not just sitting in a boat paddling, you become the boat! PS. Lessons are also a huge plus during this phase.
5. Build quality: The kayak you have been using has probably served you well, but you may notice little things that aren't up to speed. Maybe that hatch you thought was so cool on the shelf actually leaks pretty bad. Or perhaps you get that one foot rest that always wants to fall off. Anyone whos started with a basic kayak get this. Cheap kayaks are not built to last more than a few seasons of hard use. The build quality of this and other name brand kayaks is going to last longer, stay straighter, and generally hold up to what a dedicated paddler is going to put them through.
So that's it, you guys. That's my pitch, I hope you take the next step and fall deeper in love with our amazing sport. Our network of paddle sports partners and us will be here to support you in the journey. If you want help picking your next kayak, consider becoming a Headwaters Patreon page supporter. This helps us continue making free content like this, and also gives you exclusive access to photos, video clips, and messaging directly with me (Dan).
Patreon Page: www.patreon.com/user?u=4575042
Insta: @headwaterskayak
Facebook Group: Headwaters Yak Life
Link to Buy from Feelfree: www.feelfreeus.com/collection...
FREE IN STORE PICKUP.
=========================================
Thank for joining us today
Please do not forget to subscribe and drop us a like!
=========================================
For more information head over to www.headwaterskayak.com/index....
Or call us at (209) 224-8367
Facebook / headwaterskayak
Instagram headwatersk...
======================================== Ready to Get on the Water? Use our Affiliate Links to Purchase:
FeelFree Kayaks: www.feelfreeus.com/?ref=a_qil...
3Waters Kayaks: www.3waterskayaks.com/?ref=a_...
Jonny Boats: jonnyboats.com/?ref=headwaters
Seastream Kayaks: www.seastreamkayaks.com/?ref=... - Sport
Looking to buy a Feelfree but need it shipped? Click this link and a % of your sale goes back to us to support our channel. www.feelfreeus.com/?ref=a_qil0o9xog
Nothing available! Please let me know when you've got some kayaks available in the $600-$1000 range similar to this. Looking for 2. We're in Folsom, so we'd be happy to drive down and see you.
What does it take to become a dealer for feelfree kayaks
Wow that retractable skag is amazing
Your videos sold me. Went out and purchased the 110. Thx for a ton of information to make my decision.
Everyone is out of kayaks. Found 2 of these at Camping World yesterday and bought them today. So excited to try them this weekend!
You totally have me pegged... Pelican 10ft owner for several years, desiring to upgrade. My brother has a Perception Carolina 12' which I paddled, got to experience a longer, better boat, so been looking for a year or more now. Trying to balance features, more efficient/better speed, with cost and weight. These Adventura kayaks sound good to me, best bang for my buck. Just wonder if I'll be able to locate one. Thanks for your very informative videos.
I've been wanting to upgrade from my 10' Pelican for 2 years now. After much searching, trying to balance features, cost, esp. weight, desiring a boat that delivers more efficiency to my stroke after trying out my brother's 12' Perception Carolina, I think I've settled on this kayak, thanks to your reviews. The problem is, they seem to be backordered. Plus I'm here in the east, in Georgia. But I really think this is the kayak for me. Just have to wait for spring and when they are back in stock. 😣
Awesome. Thanks for this.
I’ve watched enough of your vids to know that a rec kayak wouldn’t be ideal on my choppy river so looking at these beginner-touring yaks
Now that the v2 is out and the 10’ has jumped up to $750, would love your feedback (or a video) on the best value in this class with bulkheads.
Been looking at:
Pelican sprint, the extended keel looks good for tracking but missing some basics like paddle holder on the side. looks good though as the lightest & most affordable at $650
Perception joyride- can pickup in person from Dick’s, the molded handles are nice for locking up & flatter bottom so beginners feel more stable for when friends or family want to take a spin, & heard the seat is pretty comfy - even if you do sit up a bit higher, and still in the ballpark at $680
Or are the advanced features of the skag, locked-in cockpit and ample deck rigging still worth it to you to bite the bullet of the extra $100 on the Feelfree?
Really enjoy your comparison videos. I was curious if you reviewed any old town kayaks, and what your opinion is of them.
Keep up the good work!
I would love to use own this one super cool I Ben kayaking since 1977 love it hit all the big ones
Great review Dan when will we some of these kayaks in south Africa feel free kayaks are here but the only keep the rental style kayaks
I love the sound of this, and am so close to pulling the trigger and ordering one.
My friend pointed out that the hull is more rec than touring, and I might not get the speed I want. That it's a step up, but I'll be wanting something better before long.
What would be the next step up from this? The tsunami or the stratos? There's so much out there it gets confusing!
The sport is indeed growing! I called our (Minnesota) state outdoor agency with a question about kayak registration and they said they’ve been getting a TON of kayak calls. People are afraid of the boat ramps being closed. Maybe a small silver lining in these tough times.
Registration for a kayak?
The place that I normally rent kayaks from uses feelfree for their entire fleet and I think they are one of the best. Especially for the price.
Nothing is in stock everywhere I look lifetime or pelican it is. Thanks for the videos.
I’m super considering this boat, especially this color! As soon as the pandemic has eased and your shop is open, I’ll swing by (Redding) to demo it.
Christy Rattay sounds good!
Yes! I just got interested in the hobby and I live near Redding CA. I'm going to cruise by and try this bad boy.
I’ve got some used ones for sell if interested. They are at my warehouse. Hit me up on IG if interested.
Awesome video, that's a sharp kayak with features I could use...like that dry area. I also love that color! I'm going to be doing some kayaking on The Carolina Thread Trail that has trails that are known as "blueways" that are up to 20 miles long. I have "never" kayaked before and was wondering if this would be a good buy for this? Also, what is the weight of this kayak? Again, great job on the video, very informative. I wish you were near me, love to come visit your store!
I’ve been binging your videos for two days now. And I was all set on ditching my perception Swifty for a pungo... or axis but the more I hear you talk about this one. Pretty sure I’m waiting for this one!! Anyone ever tell you, you sound like Kevin Costner? Lol maybe it’s the Accent from the area. 🤷🏼♀️ anyways thanks for all this info! It’s so appreciated!
I get the Kevin Costner reference all the time. The Aventura is sweet and so are the others mentioned. I personally like a kayak that I can lock into better than a Pungo so I lean more towards the Axis or Aventura. Glad our videos are helping you. Enjoy!!
I cannot unhear Costner now!!!
Picked up the blue 125 after your last video, and just grabbed an aqua bound whiskey to go with it!
Joewest373 nice congrats! Where you from Joe?
@@HeadwatersKayak central Pennsylvania
The biggest problem I have with a kayak like this is the smaller cockpit opening. I really like a larger opening like my Perception Swifty DLX. It is very easy to get in and out of and I have plenty of room for small storage between my legs. My brother has some "play boats" that I occasionally use and getting into them is like putting on a pair of pants that are two sizes two small. I really don't like to use his boats which is why I chose to buy my own. As an older guy I don't have the flexibility that I used to have (not that I was ever that flexible to begin with). I like to be able to step into a boat and sit down rather than having to "slide inside".
I can see that. Some folks have flexibility issues that would prevent them from enjoying this style of kayak. There are tons of great open cockpit designs out there. My goal in this video was to point out that a fitted cockpit opens up a lot of doors to paddling different waters, that you simply should not paddle in an open cockpit. Also a whole different level of connecting to your craft. There is no wrong way to enjoy the water, just lots of different ways. Happy Paddlin.
Or my $300 2017 used Pungo 120. A few fixes and it ROX! However... that's a sweet boat with sensible design and build quality
Lots of value in the used market right now.
Debating this or an Old Town Sorrento. Finding one will likely be the deciding factor.
Hi Dan. You inspired me to get on the water. I am 60 years young, and just bought a 9 1/2 ft New Towns recreational kayak. No scag, do you think that's ok? I will be on ponds and bays near Plymouth Massachusetts. Blessings, Gogo ( my Nana name)
Wish I could find one in PA
Feelfree has been killing it lately. The Moken 12.5 is on their website for $599, that's a stupid good deal. That Adventura would be my choice for a sit inside upgrade.
William Johnson yes that’s an insane price!
Sadly all the places that sell this boat online are sold out. Hope they restock soon. Your videos have sold me. I’m over here in Raleigh so sadly I can’t buy from your shop. If you know of any shops that sell this this bad boy on the east coast close to NC I’d love to hear about it. Thank you for all you do for the community. I’ve learned a ton from your videos!
Check out waterway is in Asheville. I saw they had one in stock last week
Newbie question. What are the foot pedals for if you don’t have the add-on rudder? Is steering with your feet “yesterday” technology?
When is your demo center going to be re-opened?
Just getting into kayaking and your videos have been invaluable, thank you!
Could i get a spray deck on this, or shouldn't i be in a position to need one in this particular kayak?
Thanks again.
You don’t have to have one but sometimes it’s nice to be dry and warm inside.
We live in Uk. Cant find anyone that sells this particular model. Any ideas how to get one? Do you ship from USA? Thank you
Is my Camry 2018 is good enough to get a 12 footer or an upgrade is a must?
I stopped by the Headwaters store in Redding in late Ma. It looked to be closed. Was I missing something?
I'll stick with my Dagger, but that ain't too shabby!
Yes this is no Stratos, but for the price, it's a huge step up from most companies are offering in this range.
@@HeadwatersKayak I am currently buying my first kayak and here stratos and adventura are at the same price (EU 850 eur). So should I then just pick up Stratos rather than feelfree's Adventura? Super cheap though in the US...
The 110 is 899€ in Europe. Please, make us your colony.😁
Does this Kayak and its bigger brother have same plastic? If so is the plastic is hard or soft? What is your opinion of quality plastic used in this line of Kayak.
This IS my next boat !!!!!!
The Aventura's (all sizes and colors) are sold out on the FeelFree website. I wonder if there might be a connection. Hard to find a kayak to buy in our neck of the woods in Arizona. Family is looking to get into the sport and have really enjoyed your videos. Now I just have to find a place to buy some kayaks!
M&M kayaks in Pine top AZ will have them soon! I’ve got a bunch in my warehouse marked for them to pickup.
(928) 358-1183
@@HeadwatersKayak Awesome, thanks for that info.
Thanks so much for the video. Quick question. Im pretty new. Ive played around in my fathers Old Town Loon, but Im looking for my own boat. Mainly slow rivers and lakes, with the occasional overnight. Im not a small guy. 6'2" 240 and a size 13 shoe. Im trying to decide between the Aventura 140 and the Pungo 125. I have sat in the Pungo and fit well, but I can get the Aventura for $150 less. So, would I fit in it? How do they compare?
Go Aventura. You can do more with it.
Dan, I've been researching my first kayak purchase for the last few weeks, and the information you've provided in the "under $300, $500, and $1000 review" videos is very much appreciated. When I first started this process, I assumed I'd be buying a kayak from Dick's. However, inventories in west-central Florida are extremely low and I didn't want to settle, so I've been dragging my feet. But that gave me the opportunity to find your videos and do some more research, which has led me to look at the next level up. I'm planning to mostly paddle (not fish) rivers and spring runs in Central Florida and possibly get out to some saltwater shallows and mangrove trails. I think I've narrowed my search down to a Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 or the Feelfree Aventura 110. I found a "slightly used" 2018 Aventura 110 at a local kayak shop that they're selling for $400. The Pungo 120 is available new for $800. What do you say...slightly used Aventura 110 for $400 or the Pungo 120 for $800?
How much does it weigh ?
Ive been paddling the coastline, daily, on an old SOT Ocean Kayak Scrambler, and its been great, but would you recommend something like this as a next step for the ocean and harbor, or should I stay with a SOT? I’ve never used a sit inside before.
Id stay sit on top until your ready to learn wet exits and rescuers. If you go sit in side for ocean do something like a Dagger Stratos.
@@HeadwatersKayak Thanks for the reply! Is there an SOT that you recommend I could step up to that isnt fishing based, but would work great on the ocean?
Feelfree has a new 18ft sea kayak with a skeg. It's called the Aquarius. Do you know about it, or have any insights to share?
All I know is my first demo will arrive from Feelfree in March. Can't wait to try it out.
got a pungo 120 and love it but also trying to get an aventura 125 but i can’t seem to find it available anywhere in orange
Cliff White yes Orange was discontinued. This was actually an older kayak I had left over.
Headwaters Kayak i figured but good news i found a used one in orange for 399! should arrive in about a week!
Cliff White how’s you find a used one?
How much of a difference in performance is there between this and the Pungo 125? I'm torn between staying in this price range / going for the more expensive Pungo. I want to spend the majority of my time on lakes and rivers while also doing photography. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Same.
It's a great price point. I'm trying to find something that will last me years without needing to upgrade.
I got a 200 starter yak, definitely something I'll be sticking with for years to come. But can't decide between the 125, and a more expensive wilderness systems or perception yak. There's so much out there.
Have you got a link for the on water review?
Bill Eddingfield I linked it in the end of the video. Just scroll to the last 10 seconds and you’ll see it.
What would say is the best sit inside kayak for fishing?
JDM_Hook’em Bonafide Ex123
How easy is it to get out of during a roll over vs open kayak ? Not the best swimmer...
I actually cant find a feelfree aventura 125 on east coast
Ditto. Not even on the websites. Everything is crossed out like they've just stopped selling them. All the local stores and even some quite a drive from me are out of stock of everything...no boats at all in the stores. It's depressing. It took me almost 12 years to convince my husband to do this with me and now I can't get a boat.
I was really lucky a week ago when I found one in TN.
Why are these on closeout? Is feelfree coming with new model or discontinuing production? Yaks look good !!
Greg Lane because they have some old inventory they are sitting on in the southeast. The 2020 kayaks will benefit from a little lighter weight.
@@HeadwatersKayak Any idea when the 2020 models are due to release? I wanted to snag a Lime or Orange 125 but they're all gone everywhere I can order from! I'm not one to be a color snob usually, but I can't stand the powder blue unfortunately. As always, great video!
My new shipments arrive Wednesday. New color ways are sick! Cobalt Blue is my favorite. I just posted a photo on my Instagram. Go to my most recent post on swipe right.
@@HeadwatersKayak Awesome Thanks again Dan! I ended up going with the Orange 110 since I got such a killer deal on it and the fact that I don't plan on really doing any large open water. Thanks again for all your awesome advice!
I'm 6'2" how's the legroom?
I’m almost positive Dan is 6’2”
Do u guys still have any of your big fish 108 on sale?
Seng Chang two 6 of them in stock. More on the way.
Any of the $1400 clearance one left? I know I saw it right before all the shutdown
Nothing that cheap. Everything I have is new at the moment. Would make a deal through. Email me headwaterskayak@gmail.com if you want to work a deal.
Hi Headwaters. I looked down the comment list a little way and didn't see my question and I hope I'm not repeating. What do the numbers mean? I heard 3 numbers but only remember two, 110, and 125. I'm sure it's length, but please decode, Is it standard?
Ray Konold 10’10” 12’5” and 14’ lengths of the models. Very sorry I didn’t make that clear.
@@HeadwatersKayak Yeah. I'm green at this. I have a Pelican I got from Dick's. Worst buying experience of my life but I like kayaking. I just cruse; I don't fish. I never learned how.
A dealer in Michigan told me that they've already discontinued them is that true?
Not true at all. Sold over 500 of them this year.
@@HeadwatersKayak Where can I find one???
I am interesting in buying a feelfree aventura 110 kayak but when I go to the webpage they are all sold out... everything 🤷🏽♂️why????😱
Since the covid19 started there has been a huge boom in kayaking, fishing etc...I have been looking for a 125 on the east coast for over a month and finally found one that will be in stock in another two weeks. Call around and look into shops near you that will ship, but I'm driving 6.5 hours one way across 2 States for mine. Good luck to you.
That’s crazy. We have over 50 in stock and most of the dealers I distribute to on the west coast do as well. But the supply chain is jacked. We are sold out of so many kayaks until middle of June.
Hey i got a question do u have any used Hobie Kayaks? 2014-2019?
Hey where’s the feel free link?
Tangus999 updates sorry.
I can not find this kayak anywhere, sure looked great for price. Bummer
where are they manufactured?
Feelfree owns their factory in Thailand.
We’re I’m can get one 👍
There are lots of FeelFree dealers in the US - check out the dealer finder on FeelFreeUS.com
I really thought i would be able to buy one of these but nope none left ANYWHERE IN THEVWORLD
Well I’m not sure did that’s true as I currently have 100 in the warehouse and can name 6 dealers on the west coast with a good stock as we speak. Maybe none in your area. Where you from? I’ll see if I can help
Can't find this one anywhere, all sold out, what a shame...
Such a shame!
200 more arriving this month to the west coast and I’ll be delivering to dealers.
Headwaters Kayak thanks man...I’ll keep trying
When ever people show a kayak they always leave out the weight restrictions that is important information when looking for a boat
I’m shopping for using in the lake my house primarily. But when I make a trip to the beach. Can this kayak be used in calm ocean?
Yes calm only.
Your one of my favorite channels, I would love to be close enough to buy kayaks from u, I typically have between 10 and 20. I have a problem, I know. But Patreon is garbage, you have a business, no need to solicit money . I think u should reconsider, . This is my opinion, but I know a lot of others that feel the same.
They have hats, decals, and tumblers on their website. I figure we can order those to help support them during this time.
I can see that perspective, but I see it has a virtual tip jar. We put a lot of great information out there for folks and it helps a lot of people that otherwise wouldn’t get the same education. They may not be able to buy their kayaks for me, but it’s a way they can say thanks. I may come up with something better down the line that fits our business model. But during these really hard times does seem like an easy plug-in solution.
@@HeadwatersKayak I think u give out great advice and the best reviews on equipment, but everybody is dealing with this. I'm fortunate that my state hasn't shut everything down. I'm working everyday, concrete business is good, but I have a few clients wanting to hold up, which hurts the bottom line. Instead of Patreon, file with the SBA and take advantage of the government giving us our money back. Or ship boats and well all order from u. Stay safe and take care.
Iowa Matt I wish it were that easy Matt. There’s a lot of factors going on behind the scenes are hard to understand. Again I can appreciate your perspective. I hope that people that want to give do and people that don’t want to give feel no pressure to do so. Happy to hear that your work is steady. Hope you’re still able to get out and paddle. Thanks for always watching videos.
Iowa Matt I wish it were that easy Matt. There’s a lot of factors going on behind the scenes are hard to understand. Again I can appreciate your perspective. I hope that people that want to give do and people that don’t want to give feel no pressure to do so. Happy to hear that your work is steady. Hope you’re still able to get out and paddle. Thanks for always watching videos.
I wish it was still just $599
Me too. Most places have them for 699 right now
shame you dont ship :(
I love your reviews but I wish I could here them better your sound is all over the place especially when your with a guest time to put a mic on shirt or something.
Positive air buoyancy? Do you ever complain about negative air buoyancy?
Yes when I'm trying to rescue someone and their boat is sinking.