The Challenger K2 offers more legroom due to its length. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Review: Our Choice for Best Cheap Kayak and It was very durable material and surprisingly, the oars are great quality. The Intex Explorer is easier to dismantle. The other noticeable difference from a design standpoint is the color scheme. The Challenger K2 is a more budget-friendly choice. Lightweight and compact, this kayak is a snap to assemble, and allows you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go. This video review of the Challenger K2 Kayak showed many of the kayaks different features. How well this kayak tracks depends on many factors, including the paddlers skill level, the weather, and water conditions (especially if its windy). The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling. These are very hard to beat for the price. When inflated, it measures 11.5 feet x 2.5 feet x 1 foot and 3 inches. The cockpit is designed for space and comfort. Intex Challenger inflatable kayak with oars also includes a double-quick hand pump, a backrest, removable skeg, grab line on front and back, and cargo net. This low-riding kayak isn't too tough to get back into if you happen to fall out A cargo net on the bow provides some extra storage space. Comfortable and spacious cockpit with inflatable . Please be advised that the operator of this site accepts advertising compensation from certain companies that appear on the site, and such compensation impacts the location and order in which the companies (and/or their products) are presented, and in some cases may also impact the scoring that is assigned to them. For this there is nothing better than portable boats, which are now indispensable for me! The convenience and portability is the best feature. With high quality kayaks there is an extra nylon cover (e.g. Streamline design for easy paddling. Challenger K2 Intex Explorer K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak, 2x 86 in. This feature makes the Explorer easier to handle and transport when inflated or folded. Gumotex Twist). The Intex Explorer K2 is a little bit more agile than the Challenger K2 because of its wider hull. If you are looking for legroom, the Challenger is the longer option. Intex Challenger K2 Pros And Cons? It seats two adults comfortably as long as their total weight is not more than 400 pounds. Intex Challenger K2 2-Person Inflatable Sporty Kayak Plus Oars and Pump Hi, thanks so much for the great reviews! The reviewer says that its a kayak for two people. For about $100 you get a functional inflatable kayak. If you are looking for precision on the water, you may want to look at other models. This company is a reputable maker of air beds, above ground pools, boats, toys, and other products. He says that the edges of the boat are hollow to make more room. The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is more affordable than the Explorer. Both kayaks are excellent for beginners or if you are kayaking with children. A useful feature is the drain hole you can plug and unplug, so this lets you drain any water that gets stuck in the kayak. Similarly, avoid modifications that may make the kayak more difficult to handle in wind and waves. Pros: The Intex Explorer K2 is smaller and lighter, making it more portable. The Intex Challenger K2 is a closed cockpit, known as a sit-inside kayak. Lightweight and compact, this kayak is very easy to assemble . This is because the Challenger K2 has a longer hull. Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling. no wind and no waves. Intex Challenger K2 Review | Tested by GearLab The scoring that appears on this site is determined by the site operator in its sole discretion, and should NOT be relied upon for accuracy purposes. This inflatable kayak is tough and durable since its made of high-quality, rugged vinyl, which is resistant to UV damage and punctures. Are you a serious kayaker but want to downsize your craft to something you can stuff in a trunk or closet by breaking into the world of inflatable kayaks? When folded up, it easily fits inside its carrying bag. there was a typo in the graphic, which I have just corrected. It comes with paddles, a pump, and a repair kit. From our research and tests, the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is better than the Challenger K2. The design features of this inflatable kayak make it suited to paddling on calm lakes and mild rivers. The Intex Challenger K2. But compared to renting a kayak every time you drive up to the lake, the Challenger might be a better solution. The Explorer K2 is an open cockpit kayak, known as a sit on top kayak. The Explorer has two carrying handles, one at the bow and one at the stern. The Intex Challenger K2 is larger and more durable than the Intex Explorer K2. Additionally, he says that there are reinforcements at the front to keep water from flowing into the boat. One of the significant benefits to owning an inflatable kayak is how easy they are to transport. Bow and stern are easier to reach inside. The Challenger K2 is 11'6 long, 2'6 wide, and 1'3 high with shades of green, blue, and gray. Intex Challenger K2: Measured Weight (boat and storage bag only) 26.2 lbs: 33.25 lbs: 42.8 lbs: 23.4 lbs: 27.5 lbs: Capacity: Tandem; 400 lbs: Single; 300 lbs: . This is not a good basis for a long life, which is not surprising considering the price of the two boats. Model# 68306EP. This means that less splash water gets into the boat when paddling. Overall, both boats need several strong paddle strokes from the paddler in the back to change direction and they react slowly to changes in direction. Keep reading to learn what's what with the Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak. These kayaks are ideal for people who have limited space to store a kayak. Do you want to kayak with your dog? The lightweight, durable kayak is perfect for two adults on a calm lake or slow-moving river. A removable skeg (or fin, which attaches to the stern of the kayak) aids in keeping travel in a straight line. Xlnt article! They are as follows: Intex Recreation Corporation is the manufacturer of the Intex Explorer K2 and the Intex Challenger K2 kayaks. Its also among the cheapest kayaks on the market, making it a great choice for those wishing to try kayaking without making a huge investment in a boat or a place to store it. Intex Challenger K2 kayak inflation is easy and takes a typical paddler less than 10 minutes. Really helped make a decision. This Intex Explorer vs Challenger K2 review will help you decide which kayak is right for you. There is no deck, only small spraydecks. As long as it is used correctly, this boat will last for years. The Intex Challenger K2 kayak skeg is a key accessory that improves tracking; this removable fin attaches to the stern of the kayak to make it easier to paddle in a straight line. If youre looking to develop your skills or spend more time in the kayak, look at a higher performance (pricier) inflatable kayak to meet your needs. We also discovered that forgetting to attach the skeg to the Challenger makes it significantly less stable one duo actually flipped the kayak multiple times. The Challenger K2 and its touring-inspired profile. 1. Another element that makes theIntex Explorer K2 Kayaksafe on the water is its rigid I-beam floor. Two 86-inch poles are also included in the package. The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling. We bought the K2 Sierra this year looks about the same as the K2 Challenger. Suitable for weekend camping trips and other fun outdoor trips. It also comes with a handy measuring gauge to help you tell when the kayak is properly inflated. And if you can get them to carry it, even better! It only has two compartments (the floor and the hull/sides) and the seats that require inflating. The Explorer is roomier, more comfortable, more durable, and lighter. Hang tight - you're in the right place Due to heavy site traffic, you've landed in our waiting room. The price battle between the Intex Explorer vs. Taking out the 2nd seat gives me tons of storage space!! Great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers solo, this Sports Series kayak is perfect for two adults. The Explorer kayak comes with everything you need to get started, including a removable skeg, hand pump, two paddles, inflatable seats, and a carry bag. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. The bright yellow color and sporty graphics makes the kayak highly visible in the water. The pump has a special feature so that whether you are pushing in or pulling out with the pump lever there is air going into the boat. We tried out some inflatable kayaks to see how well they work for traveling with dogs. It has a suitably sturdy design that is strong and durable. Compared to the shorter K1 model, the added length of the Challenger K2 provides more space for storing rods and tackle and greater comfort in casting and landing fish. Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak - 2 Person - INTEX First, I will show you the main differences between the two and then describe all their important features. The Intex Challenger K2 is a two-person inflatable tandem with a 400-pound capacity. The two kayaks do not differ in stability. The bright yellow color and sporty graphics makes the kayak highly visible in the water. It's a two-person version of the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak. It's also 2.2 lbs. This kayak has three separate chambers as well. The following table will show the main differences between the Intex Explorer vs Challenger: The Intex Explorer K2 has a streamlined design, making it very easy to paddle. Why not take turns in a tandem?! The duffel it comes in has plenty of space not only for its contents (boat, paddles, and pump) but with a bit of forethought, a life vest or two as well. Challenger. Aluminum Oars, Carry bag, Hi-Output Manual Hand Pump, Repair patch, 2x 86 in. The Challenger K2 is longer at 116 long than the Explorer K2, which is 103 in length. Like its smaller sister ship, the Intex Challenger K2 is a general purpose inflatable kayak for beginners at a bargain price. KAYAKAPA.COM,. With the fin the boats have an acceptable directional stability. All in all the Challenger offers more space for paddlers and luggage. There are two air chambers in the Challenger K2, one at the bottom of the boat and one at the top. The Explorer K2 also has carrying handles at the bow and stern, which makes it easier to handle. The Challenger folds up into a pretty easy shape to store at the back of a closet for the winter. The Intex Excursion Pro is a step up from the Challenger K2 in terms of performance and outfitting, but the upgrades come at about double the price. MSRP: $249 USD Performance The Intex Challenger K2 is the bigger brother of the Intex Challenger K1. Aluminum Oars, Hi-Output Manual Hand Pump, Repair patch, Sporty graphics for high visibility, Low-profile for lakes and mild rivers, Streamlined design for easy paddling, Cockpit designed for comfort and space, Inflatable I-beam floor for comfort and rigidity, Removable skeg for directional stability, Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak Deluxe Package, Advanced Elements AE1007-R AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak, Sea Eagle SE330 Inflatable Kayak with Deluxe Package, Sea Eagle 380x Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package, Sea Eagle 420x Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package, Sevylor Riviera Inflatable Two Person Kayak, Intex Excursion 4 4-Person Inflatable Boat, Sea Eagle SE9 Inflatable Motormount Boat - Fisherman's Dream Package, Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Raft River/Lake Dinghy Boat Set & Motor Mount Kit, Intex Mariner 3 Inflatable Dinghy 3 Man Boat, Best Paddle Boards for Beginners and Pros. Thats the reason why this company manages to sustain its business for over four decades. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. Holes are easy to patch using contact adhesivea repair patch kit is included. Challenger is very even. Have you only been kayaking that one time on vacation and always wanted to be able to do it more but didn't want to spend the big bucks on a serious kayak? Im 56 average weight and would prefer the sportier K2 Challenger and Im ok with a little extra work paddling. My wife and I bought K1 kayaks five years ago still using them Ive had no problems no holes theyve been very dependable the last year we bought a K2 and it was amazing great for River floating. Tracking improves with the addition of the skeg. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. Despite being one of the lightest tandem models we tested, lugging over 30 pounds of anything in a duffel bag with no shoulder strap and thin handles is not overly fun. Read the full Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Review, Two 86 inch paddles, carry bag, hand pump, two inflatable seats, repair kit, removable skeg, Two inflatable seats that are adjustable and removable. And to top it off, the Challenger has a pretty low capacity just 400 pounds allotted for two people and whatever else you plan to bring with you on your adventure (food, water, gear, etc.). Kayak anglers love to modify their kayaks and there are many possibilities with the bare-bones Intex Challenger K2. I chose the two-seater so that I could accommodate another person, or a dog. The boat features two one-way Boston valves, one to inflate the hull and the other for the deck. At 11.5 feet long its faster and straighter tracking than the Challenger K1, yet also quite maneuverable and easy to handle in calm conditions. "We received our Challenger K2 this weekend and took it out on a small lake with a slight breeze. But if you're just looking for something for a weekend or a season, this still might be in your wheelhouse just don't expect anything miraculous from it. I am mostly by myself, but from time to time I have family come to visit that may like to kayak with me. Send your kids out paddling without breaking the bank. The K2 is a great choice if youre larger or if youd like the option of paddling tandem. It highlights the main features of the inflatable boat and why it is a great buy. Space: More space with Intex Challenger K2 5. I would definitely recommend either one of The Kayaks I mentioned above. This of course is with one person and two small little helpers. If the water is very cold (60 fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit. Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. Buthe model from Sea Eagle is similar to the Intex kayaks. Two pieces of adjustable seats complete with two backrests, Two pieces aluminum paddle (each at 86 inches long), One piece of removable skeg for directional. Its streamlined design makes it easy to paddle. Hi, Do you know anything about the Intex Sierra K2? The bright yellow color and sporty graphics makes the kayak highly visible in the water. Both the Intex Challenger K2 and Explorer K2 come with inflatable seats that are adjustable and removable. The both work pretty well and are quite affordable but I would give the edge to the Challenger. Great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this Sports Series kayak is perfect for two adults. So, if one fails, the other two will be enough to row the boat to safety. Sevylor Adventure) or the boat skin is made of a fabric material (e.g. Only inflating the seats by mouth was a bit more challenging. But barring these few gripes, we were pretty comfortable spending an hour or two paddling around in this budget boat. The open deck of the Excursion Pro is easier to enter and exit than the more confined, partially decked cockpit of the Intex Challenger K2. Product Comparison: Intex Explorer K2 vs Sea Eagle SE330 - BestAdvisor Both kayaks have a weight capacity of 400 pounds, great for two paddlers or a solo kayaker and gear. Material and quality: No difference 4. Ideally, you put some weight in the stern. This also helps it to not catch the wind so much, giving you a bit of an easier task than you'd have paddling into the wind in a taller vessel. Both inflatable kayaks are equally well made. They have slightly squishy grips, which makes them a bit more comfortable and different than most other paddles on the market. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak vs Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Usability Usability refers to the conditions in which you can use a kayak. Intex Challenger K2 vs Explorer K2 - Where are the differences? Tracking could be somewhat better but for the price it can not be beat. The Challenger K2 is longer and more narrow, so it is a little more sleek. Both inflatable boats are equipped with a fin, which is indispensable. Like other inflatable kayaks, the Challenger K2 feels slow and sluggishespecially compared to a hardshell kayak. The boats are not suitable for longer paddling tours, as the air pressure is quite low and the seats do not provide enough support. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The color and graphics painted on the boat also enhance its safety feature. Nimble on water because of its streamlined design. Width: 36" / 91.5 cm Weight: 30.6 lbs / 13.9 kg Capacity: 400 lbs / 181 kg MSRP: $250 USD (incl. The Challenger K2 reaches a higher speed. You can also buy an Intex Challenger K2 kayak at Walmart. Every Norco bike is inspired by British Columbia's supernatural landscape to be the best bike we can create for the riding we love. Hi Christian, The way you explained everything is awesome. The seats are adjustable and comfortable, and they handled great. The material of the boat skin is not very robust and also the paddles included are only suitable for short kayaking tours. Test out any modifications on dry land and critically assess how the changes will affect the kayaks safety and performance. This budget kayak from Intex is a simple model yet surprisingly durable and sturdy for its price. Hi Christian, I have the same question as Amanda, can both be paddled solo and which would be better? Additionally, the Challenger has no scupper hole, so any water that comes into your craft is going to continue along with you until you get to a point where you can get out and flip the whole thing upside down. The Explorer K2 has two carrying handles, one in the bow and one at the stern. The Explorer K2 is easy to assemble and portable, so you can take it everywhere you go. Constructed of only a 30 gauge PVC vinyl, this tandem feels like a short step from your average pool floaties. The other nice thing about storing your kayak inside your house or apartment is keeping the kayak safe from potential thieves. Hi there, I am curious if these could fit into a larger backpack to be carried? Narrow, high-pressure air tubes in the floor of the kayak (known as I-beams) add rigidity and larger chambers around the perimeter of the hull provide buoyancy. A USCG ID also comes with the package to prove that it is safe to use on the water. The Explorer K2 has a splash cover at the bow and stern. Intex Challenger K2 vs Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Unboxing - YouTube The Intex Challenger is made from durable welded material, with a spacious and comfortable cockpit. Boston valves help with quick and easy inflation and deflation. The Challenger K2 kayak is perfect for two adults, but you can paddle solo as well. The bargain-priced Intex Challenger K2 kayak is available online and in various big-box stores. I've used mine fishing in the ocean and it gets the job done. It has the same outfitting and accessories as the K1. The bright green color and sporty graphics make the kayak highly visible in the water. This review will look at the features, benefits, and what makes each one unique. It is recommended to wear a life jacket. The Sierra looks and feels softer, more like a raft. The boat only needs to be tilted and the water in the boat drains off without any problems. The cockpit is comfortable and spacious. what does Intex Explorer K2 Kayak come with? It is more solid thanks to the nylon cover, comes with better seats and also performs better on the water. Challenger K2 vs Explorer K2 - Best Inflatable Kayaks for Traveling The kayak includes an inflatable I-beam floor for added stability. Choose the Intex Challenger K1 if youre a smaller or average-sized paddler (under 62 and 220 pounds) and if you have no intentions of paddling with a partner. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. The air pump serves its purpose. Compare +. It has a long skeg which helps it track better as well. This construction is quite durable and resistant to impacts with blunt objects and abrasions. Bikes | Norco the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Very inexpensive, everything included, low and stable, Handles well, high durability, fast, stable, fabric is water resistant, All-inclusive package, adjustable seating, can paddle tandem or solo, comfortable seats, Everything included, affordable, durable, easy backpack carry, everything becomes part of the kayak, All-inclusive package, inexpensive, lightweight, Not durable, pump is inefficient, average portability, Heavy, floor difficult to inflate, hard to drain, Awkward bulky bag, foot pump is small, wobbly paddles, Poor paddle, rides high, blunt bow, fabric retains water, difficult to drain, Tracks poorly, tacos when fully inflated, deforms at full pressure, questionable durability, With excellent handling, a long lifespan, and great comfort, this kayak will go the distance, An inexpensive and more comfortable way to get out on the water with your friends or by yourself, For a decent kayak at a fraction of the cost of the competition, we love this backpack yak from Sevylor, This boat is fine if money is your bottom line, but it paddles poorly and has lackluster performance across the board, 71.1cm x 45.7cm x 30.5cm | 28" x 18" x 12", 83.8cm x 40.6cm x 38.1cm | 33" x 16" x 15", 91.4cm x 50.8cm x 20.3cm | 36" x 20" x 8", 55.9cm x 43.2cm x 22.9cm | 22" x 17" x 9", 68.6cm x 38.1cm x 43.2cm | 27" x 15" x 17", Aluminum ribs in bow & stern, PVC-coated polyester, Heavy duty polyetster bottom, 24-gauge laminated PVC, Adjustable backrest, bungees, pressure relief valve in floor, skeg, Seatback pockets, bow & stern grablines, drainage hole, adjustable seats, two small tracking fins, converts to solo boat, Backpack carrying system turns into seat , storage area, bow and stern bungees, accessory D-rings, spray skirt, skeg, Removable skeg, bow & stern grab lines, adjustable backrest, manual drainage hole.