Inflatable Kayak Blog

The advancement of technology in the design of inflatable kayaks continues to move forward. The first inflatable kayaks were light and convenient to use, but because of their buoyancy, not exactly easy to handle in wind, waves or whitewater. It didn’t take long, though, for designers to figure out ways to turn inflatable kayaks into versatile, viable crafts that could handle the elements. Developments in hull design, skegs and rudders have made inflatable kayaks a serious choice for paddlers in all types of water conditions. It seems like every year, there’s another new improved design.

This year is no exception as Sea Eagle has added some true innovation to the equation. They recently launched a new high performance inflatable kayak, the Sea Eagle FastTrack 385ft. The boat is made for serious open-water paddlers with a design that forces the kayak to go faster and straighter. By incorporating a rigid, drop-stitch inflatable keel into the bow of the boat and a large removable skeg in the stern, the Fast Track design limits the “yaw”, which is the sideways motion that’s a result of the typical side to side kayaking paddle stroke. (Note: If you use the FastTrack in whitewater (rated up to Class III rapids), you can remove the rear skeg). The diameter of the tubes is smaller, too, at ten inches. And despite the narrower shape, the FastTrack does not sacrifice any interior space or comfort. The combination of all these design functions adds speed, better tracking and easier control of the kayak in the wind. Three areas where inflatable kayaks have lagged behind hard shell and folding kayaks as a choice for serious kayakers.

Two other features add to the value of the FastTrack 385ft. The new high tensile strength lightweight fabric makes the kayak lighter than other inflatables in its class (the hull weighs 35 pounds). Sea Eagle also took a page from their Stand Up Paddleboard design and added a high pressure drop-stitch floor to the kayak. The floor not only increases the rigidity of the FastTrack, and efficiency of the paddler’s strokes, but it also allows the kayak to double as a stand up paddleboard.

It’s innovative, versatile and super portable. The Sea Eagle FastTrack 385ft inflatable kayak is truly a kayak worth reviewing before you buy anything else!