Delta Kayaks, Canadian Manufacturer of Premium Thermoformed Kayaks, raises the bar in the Sea Kayak Touring category with its launch of the newly redesigned Delta 15.5GT.
Delta Kayaks’ Redesigned 15.5 GT
Delta’s 15.5 has been the flagship of their Touring line since its inception in 2006. Its stability and carrying capacity have offered worry free paddling for many and loads of storage for longer trips. In the past the Delta 15.5 was coined by many as the minivan of their line and now the minivan has received a stunning redesign.
“It’s always a daunting task to redesign a model that has done so well for us,” said Stuart Mounsey, designer at Delta Kayaks. “There are thousands of paddlers that count themselves as proud owners of a 15.5 so designing a 2nd generation 15.5GT has to take into consideration the potential we see in the category, but also the expectations of existing owners that might like to upgrade to the new 2015 version. After test paddling it, we are positive that we’ve not only met, but exceeded all of our goals.”
At 15’6” in length and 24 inches wide, the 2015 Delta 15.5GT comes loaded with proprietary features that have proven to be well received on Delta’s other kayak models and have now become standards in our designs. The new Delta 15.5GT features a slightly narrower width by 1/2 an inch, a refined v-shaped hull offering better tracking and foot positioning on the foot pedals, 3 gear hatches with Press-Lock hatch covers and curved bulkheads, a front deck day hatch, second generation Contour Seat System and is much lighter at 49lbs (weight is calculated with rudder and all outfitting).
The team at Delta Kayaks says the new 15.5GT should appeal to a wider audience with all of the upgrades in features and performance. The new design has an improved secondary surface for bracing, edging and maneuvering combined with a longer waterline and slightly less rocker providing a much better hull speed and tracking than its predecessor. They are confident that the new 15.5GT will set the mark for all sub 17 foot sea/touring kayaks on the market.
Delta Kayaks 15.5 GT Details
- V-Shaped hull with moderate chine and upswept bow provides an optimal blend of speed and stability for great performance and a dryer ride
- Thermoformed ABS construction provides high abrasion and impact-resistance coupled with superior UV protection so your kayak looks like new for many years.
- Designed with simplicity in mind Delta’s lightweight, multi-position Contour Seat System provides excellent back support, quick adjustment and optimal comfort in a user friendly design.
- Delta’s proprietary indexing system allows the seat to travel forward and back 4” for a custom fit under the thigh braces and to help trim your kayak if needed
- New low-profile front day hatch is within easy reach, and 2 main dry storage areas sealed with rigid bulkheads provide ample space for your gear
- Delta’s proprietary ‘Press-Lock’ hatch covers create a watertight seal with a specially designed gasket that envelops the rim of the hatch with an easy push
- Padded integrated thigh braces improve control and overall comfort
- Delta’s integrated rescue system combines bungee cord, perimeter line and paddle recess aft of the cockpit to help make paddle float re-entry quicker and easier.
- Raised bungee lines provide a quick and easy place to secure your paddle blade at the bow and a convenient place to secure your spare paddle at the stern
- Deck fittings are recessed and hatches flush-mounted for a sleek look and no-snag design.
- Channel-mounted and individually tubed rudder lines ensure a smooth and kink-free operation
- The Delta 15.5GT with rudder features ergonomic, retractable dual-density grab handles that are easy on the hands
- Made in Canada
On sale Spring 2015 at Delta Kayak dealers, the Delta 15.5GT comes in all four 2015 Delta colours: Red, Sunset Orange, Lime Green and White.
About Delta Kayaks Ltd.
Delta Kayaks is a family owned business with over 30 years of thermoforming expertise mixed with advanced paddlesport knowledge. From the outset, our intent was to simply build the “best” thermoformed kayaks we could build right here in North America. Through innovation and design we have created a complete line of outstanding kayaks that will appeal to paddling enthusiasts of every age and level. From the super shine of the Solarkote® finish to the full complement of deck rigging, multi-position seat systems and long waterlines, our commitment to quality and value is evident in every kayak we build. For more information visit www.deltakayaks.com
