Best Drysuits For Paddling In 2026

October 17, 2024

A drysuit is probably the most expensive paddling item you’ll buy after your kayak or canoe. It’s also the only investment that will double the length of your paddling season.

Well worth it.

There is an old saying: buy it nice or buy it twice. Drysuits are that kind of purchase. Pricier suits will typically get you more features, better performance in extreme conditions and extra product support after your purchase. Not every paddler needs a top-tier suit, but every cold water paddler needs reliable immersion protection. As a rule of thumb, the American Canoe Association recommends immersion protection when the temperature of the water you’re paddling on is lower than 60°F (16°C).

We gathered the newest suits from six industry-leading brands and one dubious top seller from Amazon. Here’s how they measured up in function, fit, breathability, durability, comfort, waterproofness and weight.

Six drysuits we love for 2026

Mustang Survival Quadra

$849.99 USD | mustangsurvival.com

Buy from:

MUSTANG SURVIVAL

Mustang Survival’s brand-new Quadra is a minimalist-style, multipurpose drysuit that performs well without bells and whistles and is priced at a beginner-friendly price.

Best suited to recreational paddlers, the men’s large Quadra offered a roomy and relaxed fit on our 6’2″, 200-pound tester. An adjustable external waistbelt helped keep the suit and extra fabric tucked in place. The waterproof and durable three-layer Marine Spec BP fabric and latex gaskets are the same as those found on other Mustang suits, and we know from experience they perform well in extended field tests. We especially love the heavy-duty Cordura panelling on the seat and knees. The Quadra’s lack of a relief zipper will be a deal-breaker for some, but totally okay for paddlers who are out on the water for shorter sessions and not wearing their drysuits all day.

If you like the style of this suit but long for a relief zip, upgrade to Mustang’s Hudson. The Hudson also boasts internal suspenders and removable internal foam knee pads, which are great for kneeling on rocky shores while loading your kayak and crawling around on raft frames. The Quadra is available in both men’s and women’s models.

Immersion Research 7Figure

$1,399 USD | immersionresearch.com

Buy from:

AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOORPLAY

The 7Figure drysuit is reliable and robust. It combines polyester’s performance with nylon’s durability, offering a breathable, lightweight shell made from recycled water bottles. The naturally hydrophobic polyester also reduces drying times off the water.

The sleek 7Figure manages to be fitted without being restrictive. The men’s large was well suited to our 6’2″, 180-pound tester, and is probably best for tall, leaner body types. There was no loose material around the waist, lower legs or wrists, so no need for cinching Velcro tabs. Less loose material also means less drag in the water.

When it comes to durability, the 7Figure adds tough nylon in the form of its bomber Devil’s Club material in high-wear areas like the seat, hips and knees. If you predict a lot of bushwhacking in your future, you’ll probably want to opt for Immersion Research’s burlier Devil’s Club drysuit.

As for the feet on the 7Figure? They’re so thick on the sole that it feels like we could dance a jig at the put-in without developing pin holes, yet they’re still slick enough to slide into booties. We love them. And the Purple Drank color of our tester suit? Just perfect. Immersion Research is renowned for its one-year no-fault coverage with free repairs.

NRS Phenom Gore-Tex Pro

$1,395 USD | nrs.com

Buy from:

NRS AMAZON OUTDOORPLAY

The NRS Phenom, constructed with Gore-Tex Pro fabric, is ideal for tackling the toughest river conditions, providing class V protection for hard chargers. Based on NRS’s bestselling Axiom, it boasts identical sweet features but now with back entry. We aren’t the only ones impressed with the Phenom—it won the award for best new apparel at the 2024 Paddling Magazine Industry Awards after being voted on by 38,000 consumers and retailers.

This sleek suit features latex neck and wrist gaskets, a five-inch-wide overskirt, Cordura panels at the ankles, and roomy integrated socks with elastic pant cuffs that easily pair with tall booties. As on the other whitewater-focused suits in this lineup, the volcano-style overcuffs cover more surface area from the wrist to the hand, reducing water contact with the gaskets underneath.

Our women’s medium loaner fit our 5’8″, 140-pound tester, though it took a bit of wiggling to get it over wide hips. We found the Phenom has a slightly more fitted feel compared to Kokatat’s women’s medium Icon, but only by the smallest margin.

Gore-Tex Pro promises long-lasting performance and is known for its best-in-class waterproof, windproof and breathable properties. During our early spring testing, the air was hot, and the water was cold. For high-output paddling and portaging, there’s nothing like it.

Photo: Michael Hewis

Kokatat Icon Gore-Tex Pro

$1,499 USD | kokatat.com

Buy from:

AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOORPLAY

The Kokatat Icon was first developed with input from EJ and Dane Jackson and joined the brand’s regular lineup in 2013. A decade later, the Icon is still pushing the limits of performance.

The Icon has had some slick upgrades over the years. Most recently in 2023, Kokatat tweaked the leg pattern to provide more articulation for increased movement and improved comfort, as well as new drop-seat zipper routing for better in-boat comfort.

The Icon is almost identical to Kokatat’s classic Meridian but offers a rear-entry shoulder zip. While mastering the rear zip solo requires some yogi flexibility, many paddlers prefer it because it stays out of the way and reduces bulk on the chest.

Photo: Michael Hewis

The Icon we tested in a women’s medium was a little long in the leg but otherwise an ideal fit on our 5’5″, 150-pound model. Constructed with lightweight, rugged and durable Gore-Tex Pro material, the Icon also features an adjustable overskirt, Gore-Tex Pro socks, latex gaskets and neoprene punch-through over cuffs. Kokatat’s custom sizing option costs extra but is a solution for paddlers who don’t fit the brand’s standard measurements. Lengthen or shorten sleeves and legs, adjust the torso, change sock and gasket sizes, and even add more pockets.

While this is the priciest suit in our lineup, the longevity of Kokatat’s drysuits is legendary. Two Paddling Mag staffers have kept their Kokatat drysuits alive for more than 20 years.

Gill Marine Verso

$850 USD | gillmarine.com

Buy from:

GILL MARINE AMAZON SCHEELS

Avid sailors have trusted Gill Marine for 50 years. In the last decade, Gill has broadened its horizons to focus on all watersports, including paddling. So, while the versatile Verso was born from sailing, its foul weather cred also makes it well suited to kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

This women’s-specific design of the Verso was released in fall 2023. The unique dual-purpose entry zip, stretching from upper thigh to mid back to upper thigh, makes for easy donning, doffing and pee breaks. The size eight suit seen here was tested by a 135-pound, 5’7″ model and offered a relaxed fit designed to accommodate thermal layers underneath with unrestricted movement. Velcro closures at the waist ensure everything stays in place.

The Verso is made with Gill’s exclusive Xplore+ three-layer waterproof and breathable fabric. The inner neoprene dry seal gaskets at the neck and cuffs effectively kept water out during swim tests.

The only hooded option in this lineup, the Verso’s hood offers excellent protection against rain and wind. We love the soft fleece inner chin guard and ventilation holes for when conditions truly suck. On the water, we found the stowed hood toggle can be a bit finicky to release. While a hooded design isn’t ideal for those who do most of their paddling wearing a helmet, for everyone else, the Versa is a versatile, budget-friendly design.

Level Six Loki

$900 CAD | levelsix.com

Buy from:

AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOORPLAY

As the first “forever chemical” bans soon sweep the United States, the Loki from Level Six is the first drysuit on the market to be both PFAS-free and made from recycled materials.

The Loki is a latex- and neoprene-free version of Level Six’s Cronos. Released in spring 2024, the Loki was designed with recreational paddlers and shoulder-season canoe trippers in mind. Our extra-large men’s tester was a little long in the leg, but an otherwise good fit on our 5’11”, 220-pound model.

The team was quite taken with Loki’s Lycra gaskets, which are coated with polyurethane and covered by neoprene cinches. How waterproof the seal is depends on how tight the cinch is. Tighten it before rapids and loosen it for lengthy flatwater stretches. The gasket material is soft, supple and comfortable around the neck and wrists. It was designed with input from Level Six’s local fire department, which was looking for a more comfortable system first responders could wear all day.

Level Six is making waves for its early adoption of eliminating PFAS from its drywear to “protect our waterways, environment, health and factory workers.” The big question: Can PFAS-free drywear deliver high-performing, breathable suits? In our initial testing—and with adequate gasket cinching—the bone-dry Loki is living up to the hype.

…And one drysuit we don’t love

Pro Ultra King-Q

$380 USD | amazon.com

“Well, it’s not as bad as I expected.” This was high praise for the Pro Ultra King-Q during the unboxing of our Amazon purchase.

On closer inspection, we had more than a few questions about materials and craftsmanship. First, the product information for the King-Q claims the suit is made of “abrasion-resistant nylon” but the tag inside the suit declares it’s polyester. And instead of being reinforced with Cordura or similar, the suit’s reinforced areas are simply another layer of polyester—in the chest and upper thighs but not the butt or knees. The webbing and buckles on the overskirt feel cheap, and the overskirt is just a couple inches deep.

As for the unisex fit? More suitable for a tall and leggy adolescent. Even our slimmest staff member couldn’t squeeze in.

Once inside out, we found the seam tape on the wrist gaskets and neck gasket—which doesn’t have a manufacturer stamp—was lifting. Pulling at the neck gasket seam to mimic the tension when putting the drysuit on, we could see the seam tape lifting farther and pulling away from the gasket.

And then there are the King-Q’s socks. Instead of fabric socks, this suit was fitted with glued and taped neoprene socks. Not only is neoprene not breathable—hello, sweaty feet—but the seams were lifting here, too. We predict this suit won’t last even a few outings without leaking, let alone a full season. And several of the reviews agree.

a group of female whitewater paddlers scout a river while wearing womens drysuits

5 Top Women’s Drysuits Go Head-To-Head

This article was first published in Issue 72 of Paddling Magazine. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

Kayak touring, whitewater boating and canoe tripping are hard on gear. Invest in quality gear that will withstand your adventures. | Feature photo: Jeff Priest

Best Touring Kayaks For 2026

Virginia Marshall

October 11, 2024

Originating in the tidal waters of the Far North, the first kayaks were both works of creative ingenuity and tools of surgical precision. Fast forward a few thousand years and it seems not much has changed. Indigenous people used these sleek, enclosed boats for hunting and travel through icy seas. Today’s paddlers seek out a wide variety of waters on which to challenge themselves and their agile craft—from sheltered passages to rocky, wave-tossed coasts and everything in between.

Kayak design and materials have continued to evolve, with many different niches branching out of those early vessels. This means kayak touring has never been more diverse or accessible, but it also means we’ve never had more options to choose from. In North America, there are fine models available from both domestic and imported brands. Selecting a shortlist of the best kayaks for touring is no easy task. My goal with these top picks is to not only share what I believe are some of the finest options out there, but also provide you with some key considerations when making your choice.

Our top picks for best touring kayaks

Best expedition kayak

Nigel Dennis Explorer

Nigel Denis Kayaks Explorer Specs

Length: 17’6”

Width: 21”

Weight: 58 lbs

Recommended Paddler Weight: 150–220 lbs

Price: $4,585 USD

Why I love it

When it comes to elite expedition kayaking, few boats rival the Nigel Dennis Explorer for proven performance, endurance and pedigree. When the going gets tough, the tough get this NDK classic.

The Explorer’s upswept bow and stern, narrow beam and clean, functional deck layout are informed by the classic British interpretation of traditional Greenland hunting kayaks. From this base DNA, designer and renowned expedition paddler, Nigel Dennis, refined the shape and layup to address the unique challenges of extended journeys on remote, exposed coastlines. The Explorer has been the kayak of choice for circumnavigations in some of the roughest and least accessible waters in the world: Britain, Ireland, Iceland, New Zealand, Antarctica, South Georgia Island and the Aleutian Islands. The boats are handmade in North Wales, using a resin-rich, field-repairable composite construction that’s built to withstand the abuse of expedition paddling. But the real reason I love the Explorer is this isn’t a one-trick pony—I’ve spent weeks in the saddle on self-supported kayak camping journeys on open waters, surfed heavy currents and overhead waves, and danced lightly among rock gardens on countless day trips. Whether I was out for an hour or a week, the boat felt responsive to my inputs, carving graceful turns and remaining speedy and stable in sloppy conditions.

Twenty-five years after it was first introduced, the Explorer continues to embody the spirit of venturing into the wild unknown. Its intuitive handling and composure in any conditions ensure all paddlers feel like great explorers.

Reasons to buy

You want a kayak that’s expedition-ready but still fun to paddle on shorter trips.
A hull and rocker profile made to maximize touring efficiency in rough waters.
Custom colors, hatches and layups, including weight-saving carbon/Kevlar.

Consider another if

Your camping kit includes items like a suitcase stove, barrel bag and multiple Dutch oven options.
You prefer a highly adjustable seat system to a minimalist cockpit.

Bottom line

Whether you are planning an expedition of your own, or just looking to cover some miles and play along the way, the Explorer is a dependable companion as you paddle into rougher waters. See the Explorer again on Paddling Mag’s list of the best kayaks.

Sea Kayak Review: Nigel Dennis Explorer

Best light touring kayak

Stellar S14 G2

Stellar S14 G2 Specs

Length: 14’

Width: 24.4”

Depth: 13.6”

Weight: 38 lbs (Advantage)

Capacity: 342 lbs

MSRP: $3,495 USD (Advantage)

Why I love it

With all the performance and safety features of a full-size sea kayak finessed into a compact package, light touring kayaks excel at spontaneous day trips and weekend adventures on any waters. Awesome, right? The Stellar S14 G2 takes a great thing and makes it even better—a lightweight light touring kayak. Because anything “light” should be, well, light.

Stellar’s background in building Olympic rowing shells and fast surfskis is evident in the construction, design and speed of the S14. Available in three sizes and four sleek and stiff composite material options—ranging from 40 pounds to just 30 pounds—the S14 trims up to 30 percent off the weight of its lightest rivals. The shallow-V hull is optimized for speed and quick acceleration with a narrow, knife-like bow and minimal rocker to maximize waterline. Soft chines reduce drag and have a smooth, continuous feel, making it easy to initiate gentle edged turns. The S14 is unquestionably among the fastest 14-foot kayaks on the water, cruising at a steady four or five knots and easily keeping pace with longer touring kayaks. The cockpit is comfortably appointed for all-day tours and there’s ample space in the watertight hatches for packing camping essentials.

Fast and light doesn’t mean experts only. Stellar moved the widest part of the hull behind the cockpit for added volume and stability, making the S14 G2 a beginner-friendly light touring bullet.

Reasons to buy

You want an ultralight compact touring kayak you can solo carry and transport with ease.
Surf ski-inspired hull makes this 14-footer as fast as the average 16-foot touring kayak.
Adjustable skeg and wider beam for user-friendly tracking and stability.

Consider another if

Advanced composite construction is out of your budget.
You want a boat you can drag, drop and generally abuse (check out rotomolded plastic options instead).
Your idea of the perfect day tour involves heavy surf and rock gardens.

Bottom line

The Stellar S14 G2’s versatile combo of speed, light weight, premium materials and tour-ability is hard to rival in the 14-foot class.

Man paddling red and white touring kayak

Touring Kayak Review: Stellar S14 G2

Best touring kayak for beginners

Wilderness Systems Tsunami

Wilderness Systems Tsunami Specs

Length: 12.5’

Height: 15”

Width: 26”

Weight: 54 lbs

Max Weight Capacity: 300 lbs

MSRP: $1,419 USD

Buy from:

WILDERNESS SYSTEMS AMAZON AQ OUTDOORS PUBLIC LANDS

Why I love it

In 2004, Wilderness Systems released what has become one of the most well-traveled and best-selling touring kayak designs of all time, the Tsunami. Over 20 years—and numerous updates—later, the user-friendly Wilderness Systems Tsunami continues to be a top choice for those starting out in this sport.

This is a kayak that makes you feel capable and at ease from the moment you sit in it. Why is that special? Plenty of kayaks in the recreational touring market are designed to optimize stability, but many do so by simply offering wider and flatter hulls. The Tsunami pairs a shallow V hull with flared sidewalls for fearless stability without sabotaging touring efficiency. In other words, it feels very secure without feeling like a barge. The boat’s multi-chine hull profile has two defined edges in each chine that act like secondary and tertiary keels, lending the Tsunami its trademark tracking and predictable handling. New paddlers can point the kayak where they want to go, and it gets there.

That feeling is vital for first-timers, but just as valuable is the kayak’s capacity to grow with your skills. The Tsunami is a refreshing beginner kayak—one that inspires instant confidence while promoting more advanced skills like edging and bracing.

Reasons to buy

Plenty of stability to inspire confidence without limiting skill development.
Three sizes to choose from, with fully customizable outfitting.
Burly rotomolded polyethylene construction holds up to heavy use.

Consider another if

You are looking for a lightweight kayak that is easy to solo lift and carry.
Hull speed outweighs stability and predictability.
You feel more comfortable with the open deck of a sit-on-top kayak.

Bottom line

Beginner doesn’t mean basic; the Wilderness Systems Tsunami remains popular 20 years after its launch thanks to features that meet new paddlers where they are without limiting where they can go.

person paddling Wilderness Systems’ Tsunami 145 touring kayak on a lake

Touring Kayak Review: Wilderness Systems’ Tsunami 145

Best value touring kayak

Delta 14

Delta Kayaks 14 Specs

Length: 14’

Width: 23.5”

Depth: 13”

Weight: 45 lbs

Capacity: 340 lbs

MSRP: $1,995 USD

Buy from:

AQ OUTDOORS REI

Why I love it

The shortest and lightest of Delta’s touring kayaks at 14 feet and just 45 pounds, it’s positioned as the easiest to own for paddlers balancing space, weight and cost. If you are looking for a compact touring kayak that can handle diverse waters and won’t break the bank, the Delta 14 is a superb solution at an exceptional value.

Available with a skeg or rudder, the 14 embraces Delta’s West Coast touring design ethos: user-friendly, efficient and more than capable of hauling all your gear. This diminutive kayak delivers crazy capacity—over 200 liters—and the large hatches make it dead easy to pack in the luxuries. The relatively long waterline assists with tracking and efficiency, making for satisfying cruising capabilities. Delta’s outfitting focuses on personalized comfort with a fore- and aft-adjustable seat. This ability to fine-tune the seating position means the 14 fits a wide range of paddlers well. While there’s inherent value in a kayak that’s versatile and easy to paddle (you’ll use it more), even more persuasive is Delta’s expertise in plastics thermoforming. Delta has been working with acrylic–ABS laminates for nearly 40 years—refining their designs and shaping process to optimize strength, weight and aesthetics.

Reasons to buy

You want to fool your friends into thinking you splurged on a composite kayak.
Moderate V-shaped hull and well-defined chines are beginner-friendly with good stability and predictable edging.
Less than two-thirds the cost as compared to other touring kayaks of a similar size and weight.

Consider another if

Rock-bottom pricing takes priority over comfort, performance and durability.
You are looking for a packable folding or inflatable kayak.

Bottom line

The Delta 14 is a downsized touring design that offers the look and feel of a composite boat at a fraction of the cost. Simply put, you won’t find a lighter, better-looking kayak at this price point.

Man wearing hat, drysuit, gloves and PFD paddling blue touring kayak

Touring Kayak Review: Delta Kayaks 14

Best packable touring kayak

TRAK 2.0

TRAK 2.0 Specs

Length: 16’

Width: 22.5”

Weight: 44 lbs

Cockpit: 16.5” × 30.5”

Packed: 56 lbs

Size Packed: 41” × 19” × 9”

Payload Capacity: 350 lbs

MSRP: $3,850 USD

Why I love it

How can a folding boat that resembles an ultralight plane crash out of the bag and goes together in just 10 minutes look and paddle like a high-performance sea kayak? In a genre plagued by head-scratching assembly rituals and lacklustre paddling, the TRAK 2.0 is a slick and sporty standout.

The TRAK 2.0’s bow and stern frames use shock-corded aluminum poles and snap-in carbon fiber ribs for intuitive assembly. If you’ve ever pitched a tent, this step is simple. Next, the frames are fitted into the burly polyurethane skin. Every folding kayak requires some technique for tensioning the skin around the frame, and TRAK’s clever hydraulic jacks are the easiest system I’ve tested. The jacks also allow you to change on-water performance on the fly: pump the keel lever to adjust rocker for playful maneuverability or straight tracking; use the two side jacks to compensate for weathercocking by adding a slight side-to-side curve to the waterline. Once assembled, the TRAK 2.0’s drum-tight skin, full deck rigging and graceful lines mean it’s all but indistinguishable from a hard-shell kayak. The boat feels inspired by traditional skin-on-frame Greenland designs, with hard chines and a shallow-V hull that prioritizes carving and glide over initial stability.

TRAK 2.0’s rolling travel bag makes short work of international terminals and exotic ports, but it’s not a package you can simply throw over your shoulder when it suits. There are unquestionably lighter—and certainly cheaper—packable kayaks to choose from. But for go-anywhere capability that performs like a hard-shell kayak, there’s the TRAK 2.0.

Reasons to buy

You want a packable kayak that is also a superb general-purpose touring and ocean play kayak.
Expedition-ready bow and stern floats can be packed with tripping gear for multi-week adventures.
Comfort and capability rivalling your favorite hard-shell kayak.

Consider another if

Ultralight portability outweighs on-water performance.
Simplicity and affordability are top priority—look to an inflatable kayak.
You’ll be using your packable kayak for more recreational purposes.

Bottom line

Equally suited to world travelers and urban dwellers, the TRAK 2.0 epitomizes go-anywhere versatility.

Man walking on snow carrying yellow kayak

Folding Kayak Review: TRAK 2.0 Touring Kayak

Best plastic touring kayak

P&H Scorpio MK II

woman paddles the P&H Sea Kayaks Scorpio II touring kayak in front of autumn shoreline — The P&H Scorpio is a do-it-all, plastic touring and expedition kayak that’s built to last. | Photo: Adventure Kayak Staff

P&H Scorpio Specs

Models: LV | MV | HV

Length: 16’8” | 17’2” | 17’6”

Width: 20” | 23” | 24”

Weight: 60 | 64 | 68 lbs (CoreLite X)

MSRP: $2,599 USD

Why I love it

One of P&H Kayaks’ classic designs, the P&H Scorpio is a high-performance, full-size touring kayak with bombproof polyethylene construction and an affordable price tag. What’s not to love?

Manufactured at P&H’s factory in Great Britain, the Scorpio comes in two different types of construction: the brand’s proprietary CoreLite triple-layer polyethylene and a lighter and stiffer CoreLite X option. Both make for a heavy-duty kayak with much better rigidity and durability (i.e. it won’t dent on your roof rack or warp on a hot day) than standard PE plastics, with CoreLite X rivalling composites for overall stiffness. The Scorpio is also available in three sizes to fit a wide range of paddlers—a svelte LV option for smaller folks, standard MV and spacious HV that can accommodate paddlers up to 6’6”. The Scorpio combines a speedy, 17-foot shallow-V hull with rounded chines for responsive edging and superb secondary stability. Intermediate paddlers can expertly hold a deep edge for faster turns, while novice kayakers can feel confident easing the Scorpio into more challenging waters. P&H’s sturdy and adjustable outfitting makes it simple to dial in cockpit fit for even more dynamic handling and all-day comfort.

A quality plastic touring kayak is one that still looks and feels great 10 or even 20 years after you purchase it. That’s the difference between a well-made boat like the P&H Scorpio and other cheaper, lower spec plastic kayaks.

Reasons to buy

Premium P&H CoreLite X construction for a top-of-its-class rotomolded plastic kayak.
Expedition-ready with four watertight hatches and keyhole cockpit for a drier-sealing spray deck.
You dream of harnessing the wind and sailing your kayak. The Scorpio deck features a reinforced footing for P&H’s Code Zero sail system. A nifty Skudder—or skeg-rudder hybrid that aids steering control and crosswind sailing—comes standard.

Consider another if

A 17-foot sea kayak is too much boat for your needs—the P&H Virgo is a compact touring model for easy handling on short to medium journeys.
You need a lighter kayak for solo lifting and loading on your vehicle (consider thermoform plastic construction).
Low cost outweighs longevity and performance.

Bottom line

For a small premium, the P&H Scorpio is a do-it-all, plastic touring and expedition kayak that’s built to last.

Boat Review: P&H Scorpio MKII LV Kayak

Best ocean play kayak

Current Designs Karla

Current Designs Karla Specs

Length: 15’3”

Width: 21.5”

Depth: 11.5”

Weight: 52 lbs

MSRP: $3,995 USD

Why I love it

The Current Designs Karla is hands-down one of the most maneuverable and lively touring kayaks I’ve ever paddled. Her creator, Danish designer Jesper Kromann-Andersen, believes a kayak should respond as a natural extension of paddler input. I couldn’t agree more.

Intermediate and advanced paddlers would be hard-pressed to find a more intuitive kayak. Want to scribe turns and carve wave faces? Stay loose and avoid purling while surfing? Slalom through rock gardens and thread currents with graceful agility? Unlock more challenging rolls and balance braces? With her narrow beam, the most rocker of any Current Designs kayak and generous volume in the bow, Karla gives you the keys. And what’s more, she does so while remaining surprisingly efficient. Unlike some dedicated ocean play kayaks, Karla’s shallow-V hull is actually fun to paddle on day tours and quickly covers the distance between you and the waves. Current Designs enhances the boat’s wide-ranging appeal with a variety of composite lay-ups blending lightweight stiffness and strength. On bumpy waters, where a kayak’s secondary stability is what keeps it right side up, Karla feels rock-solid. Her hard chines are at home with any degree of edging.

Innovative design meets stylish personal expression in the Karla. Like Kromann-Andersen, I think kayak touring should always feel playful. That’s why I love this boat, and why it’s the kayak that spends the least time on my rack.

Reasons to buy

Generous rocker and bow volume surfs like a dream.
Three hatches, a deck pod, compass recess, skeg and surprising hull speed add versatility for touring.
Robust, well-placed cockpit elements create a positive fit for edging, bracing and rolling.

Consider another if

You want to slide over rocks and barnacles with a second thought (consider a plastic playboat instead).
Your local waters don’t offer rough water exposure and a more touring-focused kayak would better serve your need for speed (check out Karla’s big sisters, the Current Designs Prana and Sisu).

Bottom line

Karla puts a smile on your face, whether gaining confidence in the surf or messing about on calm water.

It isn’t just experts and rolling junkies who will enjoy this boat; the Karla is an outstanding companion for aspiring paddlers to develop skills and gain confidence. | Photo: Owen Marshall

Sea Kayak: Current Designs’ Karla Review

What to consider when choosing a touring kayak

Kayak touring can look very different depending on where and how you paddle, but if you can only own one kayak, buy the boat that you will enjoy on the waters you paddle most of the time. For example, an expedition kayak probably isn’t the best choice if you mostly enjoy after-work jaunts on your local river. You also want a kayak design that you feel comfortable in, but doesn’t limit your ability to progress your skills.

If your local waters consist of sheltered bays, quiet rivers and inland lakes, look to a compact light touring kayak that is easy to store and transport and encourages you to get out more often. If you’re progressing into more exposed waters and currents, or dream of exploring wilderness coastlines, it may be time to invest in an ocean play design to develop your rough water skills or an expedition kayak capable of making those extended journeys. If you are new to the sport and staying upright and feeling stable are your priorities while you get the basics down, consider one of the many user-friendly kayaks geared more towards beginners. And if you want to travel with your kayak to exotic or hard-to-access locales—or simply need a boat that you can store in your closet—a packable or inflatable is going to be the best fit for your lifestyle and aspirations.

As you spend more time kayak touring, you are going to gain a better appreciation of where you want to go with the sport. What types of waters call to you? What parts of the experience of being in a kayak do you most enjoy? Just as your responses to these questions may change over time, your sense of the type of kayak you want to paddle may evolve as well.

Best touring kayak brands

How we tested

The kayaks in this article were chosen through years of accumulated experience with numerous touring designs, as well as the input of our contributors and longtime editors through our extensive boat reviews.

Why trust us

Longtime Paddling contributor and former Adventure Kayak editor Virginia Marshall has paddled touring kayaks for 20 years, exploring coastlines on the Great Lakes, Atlantic and Pacific oceans and Tasman Sea. When she’s not writing about kayaking, she works as a sea kayak instructor trainer and wilderness guide.

Writer Virginia Marshall paddles the Current Designs Karla during a 20-day personal trip on Lake Superior. | Feature photo: Kaydi Pyette

Not Quite Roughin’ It: 12 Essentials For Wilderness Campers Who Crave Comfort

Kaydi Pyette

October 8, 2024

a luxury wilderness camping tent from Tentipi with high-end canoe and paddle — Make yourself at home. | Feature photo: Michael Hewis

Some campers are content with a bivy sack and a bag of oatmeal. If that’s not your style, you’re in the right place! From a four-season tent that feels like a portable palace to a luxury sleep system that elevates your shuteye, these 12 wilderness camping essentials make sure you’re not quite roughin’ it in style.

12 essentials for wilderness campers who crave comfort

Tentipi Safir 7 CP four-season tent

1 Tentipi Safir 7 CP

$2,425 USD | mansfieldoutdoors.com

A versatile four-season tent for not-so-lightweight camping, the traditional Safir 7 offers such comfort and livability you’ll be tempted to bring it on all your adventures just because it’s so cool. The Swedish design is crafted from breathable cotton polyester impregnated with a long-lasting water repellant, making it resilient to challenging weather. We tested the Safir in pleasant spring conditions, but it has also withstood storm-force gales on glacial icefields.

Our tester arrived in a tidy package, about 10 by 10 by 24 inches and weighing 27 pounds. After you’ve set up the Safir once, you can erect the straightforward single-pole design in under five minutes. Towering over the campsite at nine feet tall, it features standing room height and a spacious interior. The Safir 7 can comfortably accommodate six to eight sleepers or a dozen people sitting for story time.

To get the most out of your Tentipi, you’ll want to pair it with a woodstove or firepan for warmth, cooking and just because you can—more on this below. The Safir has many optional upgrades, including a removable floor, porch, drying rail and more. Available in a wide variety of sizes, fitting up to 35 people.

aerial view of sunset over calm Boundary Waters lake with accommodations in foreground

20 Incredible Accommodation Options In & Near The Boundary Waters

2 Eldfell Stove

$1,140 | mansfieldoutdoors.com

Referred to as the heart of the Tentipi tents, the stainless steel Eldfell Stove is designed to pair with the tipi design. Use it to cook, dry clothes, and create a warm and cozy home away from home, regardless of the temperatures outside.

The Eldfell features an extendable insulation pipe that slides over the upper stove pipe to safeguard the tent fabric. It’s stable on its feet and in strong winds, too. The Eldfell comes in one size—25 by 15 by 12 inches—but offers different chimney lengths to match various tent sizes. The stove weighs 32 pounds and comes in its own purpose-made wooden box.

Another option for campers who want to cut down on heft is Tentipi’s collapsible Hekla firebox. It weighs just eight pounds and allows for an open fire in the tent thanks to its efficient burning design. The Paddling Mag team didn’t have the opportunity to test the Hekla, but it’s said to reduce wood fuel use by 75 percent.

Exped Dura 5R sleeping mat

3 Exped Dura 5R

$160 | exped.com

Exped’s Dura series is a jack of all trades, balancing durability, weight, warmth, comfort and packability. The 5R sleeping pad is our new go-to for any adventure; it promises a super comfortable sleep thanks to three inches of loft and whisper-quiet insulation. It also boasts a toasty 4.8 R-value, claiming to keep campers comfortable down to -4°F/-20°C, making it a solid year-round option for many. Rolls up larger than a Nalgene bottle, but not by much.

Exped’s Schnozzel Pumpbag is included. The accessory makes inflation quick and easy, inflating the pad in just three bags of air. It also keeps moisture out of the pad’s interior, extending its life. Available in mummy and rectangular shapes, as well as long and wide options. Exped’s track record of bomber reliability—our last mat is still going strong a decade later—speaks volumes.

Buy from:

EXPED AMAZON REI

Klymit Pillow X Large

4 Klymit Pillow X Large

$33 | klymit.com

At 3.2 ounces, this pillow offers comfort at a weight you won’t even notice. Its X-shaped design cradles your noggin, perfect for back sleepers. Leave a little air out for a more comfortable feel. Stuffs down to the size of a wallet.

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KLYMIT AMAZON PUBLIC LANDS

Mountain Hardwear Bozeman

5 Mountain Hardwear Bozeman

$160 CAD | mountainhardwear.ca

The synthetic-filled Bozeman from Mountain Hardwear is an entry-level, three-pound bag perfect for car camping. Designed for warmer weather adventures with a 20°F/-1°C limit, its generous mummy cut maximizes warmth without constriction. Its fleece-lined stuff sack can double as a pillow when stuffed with clothes. Zip together with a matching bag for snuggling.

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MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR AMAZON REI

Yeti Panga 75L duffel

6 Yeti Panga 75L

$350 | yeti.com

No duffle bag we’ve ever tested matches the durability and waterproofness of Yeti’s Panga. Living up to its claim of being an all-weather gear fortress, the Panga is a burly beast, made to last and dry on the inside even when dunked and dragged. Comfortable shoulder straps transform it into a backpack, making it as ideal for river trips as travel. It offers a generous interior, though the single zipper design is a challenge when packing larger items. Also available in 50- and 100-liter sizes, the Panga’s only drawback is its price. We even picked the Panga as one of the year’s best dry bags.

Buy from:

YETI AMAZON PUBLIC LANDS REI

Best Dry Bags For 2026

Mpowerd Luci solar lights

7 Mpowerd Luci Solar Lights

$54.95 | mpowerd.com

Easily portable, if not especially practical, our favorite thing about Mpowerd’s Luci Solar Lights is its cozy atmosphere around the campsite. The 18-foot-long string puts out 100 lumens, bringing a soft, warm glow that instantly makes your site more Instagrammable. Fully waterproof and fueled by a full day of summer sun or a six-hour USB charge, these lights keep the night alight for up to 20 hours.

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MPOWERD AMAZON REI SCHEELS

Helinox Chair Zero Highback

8 Helinox Chair Zero Highback

$179.95 | helinox.com

We’ve been fans of Helinox since their Chair One revolutionized ultralight camp comfort in 2012. The Chair Zero Highback takes all the best of the original—a durable aluminum alloy frame that snaps together like tent poles with 100-denier polyester Kevlar-reinforced fabric—and pairs it with even more support.

At 1.5 pounds, it’s double the weight of the original but just a sixth of the weight of your typical clunky superstore camp chair. Supportive and stable, you can lean back without fear of toppling. For folks under six feet tall, your shoulders will likely rest just below the back of the chair. If you slouch down a little, you can also rest your head on the high back. For broader paddlers, the 15-inch shoulder width might be a bit tight.

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HELINOX AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI

Engel Cooler Dry Case

9 Engel Cooler Dry Case

$79.99 | engelcoolers.com

This compact, leak-proof cooler from Engel measures 15 by 10 by 11 inches, weighs 3.5 pounds, and holds up to 18 twelve-ounce cans in its 13-quart capacity. You could spend four times as much on a cooler, but this one has proven to be perfectly adequate for keeping things on ice for weekend adventures—especially when you only need your brews and brisket kept cold until tomorrow, not dinner five days from now.

Forty Creek Whisky

10 Forty Creek Whisky

$32.85 | fortycreekwhisky.com

There’s nothing like sipping on a wee dram around the campfire at the end of the day. Put it in a flask and keep the bottle out of the backcountry.

Buy from:

AMAZON

Svante Freden Reflector Oven

11 Svante Fredén Reflector Oven

$119.75 CAD | canadianoutdoorequipment.com

Leave it to the Swedes to make a luxury item with such minimalism we want to bring it on more than our base camp trips. Handmade by craftsman Svante Fredén himself, we borrowed this 1.5-pound reflector oven from The Canadian Outdoor Equipment Co. and were impressed by its easy assembly, folds-flat compact size and spectacular snacks we easily made. No more searing your baked goods on too-hot embers or painstaking pan rotation over a gas stove. Bring this svelte little unit and eat your heart out. Think bannock, pizza, cookies, cakes, brownies and cinnamon bun rolls. Need we go on?

Aeropress Original

12 AeroPress Original

$54.95 | aeropress.com

Goodbye, gritty cowboy coffee. So long, bitter instant brew. The light and compact AeroPress Original is a quick and simple way to make a cup of coffee that tastes almost as good as one your favorite barista lovingly prepares. Just add medium-ground beans and hot water, stir and press. It makes 10 ounces of regular coffee per pressing, or one to three espresso-style shots for lattes and cappuccinos. And it’s all done in about one minute.

Buy from:

AMAZON SCHEELS

a tableau of the luxury wilderness camping items reviewed in this article — Treat yourself. | Photo: Michael Hewis

Cover of the Summer 2024 issue of Paddling Magazine, Issue 72

This article was first published in the Issue 72 of Paddling Magazine. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

Make yourself at home. | Feature photo: Michael Hewis

How To Standup Paddleboard

Skills

Dan Dakin

October 7, 2024

man standup paddleboarding in front of a scenic mountain landscape — Feature photo: Scott MacGregor

Many standup paddleboarders have a vivid memory of their first time encountering the sport. Maybe they witnessed someone gliding across the water at the beach, or perhaps they saw a crazy SUP surfing video on the internet. No matter how we first came in contact with the sport, the reaction is often the same: I want to try that.

As someone who introduces people to the sport, a common question I’m asked is, “How hard is it to do?” Often, people will see someone else paddleboarding and think that it’s an extremely difficult balancing act, like walking on a slackline or riding a unicycle.

However, the answer to the question is quite simple: stand up, relax and have fun. Unlike slacklining or riding a unicycle, the worst consequence of losing your balance is falling in the water. You may fall in at first, but with proper technique and a bit of practice, you’ll be exploring your local body of water in no time.

Once you do learn how to paddleboard, the most beautiful aspect is whether you cover miles, carve waves, or just sit and enjoy an after-work sunset, it soon becomes not just an activity but a way of living.

How to standup paddleboard

What you need to get started

Beginner-friendly standup paddleboard
SUP Paddle
PFD (low-profile life jackets and inflatable belt packs are popular options)
Fin (integral to the board going in a straight line)
Leash (recommended on open waterways like lakes, bays and oceans; very conditional and even controversial on rivers)
Proper attire (dress for weather and water conditions)
Cellphone or VHF radio (phone should be stored in a drybag or case)
Whistle or sound-producing device

upturned SUP on shore displaying two fins. — Fin configurations are often set up in single-fin, twin-fin and three-fin layouts. The reasons vary by paddling activity, but all will help your board track straighter on flatwater. | Photo: Joe Potoczak

Getting on the board

For people who have never been on a SUP before, this can be the hardest and most intimidating part once you’ve figured out how to transport your paddleboard to the water for the first time. To do so, you are going to want to find a good SUP rack for your vehicle.

A quick note: The handle in the center of the board is an important reference point we’ll use, as it’s the center of balance for carrying and standing.

We’ll start with the easiest launch point, which is a beach with a sandy bottom. Walk the board out into the water deep enough to the point where the fin isn’t touching the bottom when you push down on the back of the board. Hold your paddle across the board in front of the center handle. Next, climb onto the board on your knees. From here, you can start by paddling while on your knees to get a feel for how the paddleboard moves under you, or just take the next step (literally) and push yourself up into a standing position.

From a dock, you have to be slightly more careful because falling could lead to hitting the dock structure. Depending on the dock’s height, you can sit on the edge with your feet on the board, set your paddle onto it and then either kneel or stand up, using the dock for stability as you push off.

man paddles his paddleboard — Have the blade exit when it reaches your feet to get the most out of your stroke. | Photo: Scott MacGregor

Some people find getting back onto the board after falling off in deeper water challenging. You won’t have the benefit of pushing off the lake or river bottom, so you’ll need to pull yourself onto the board stomach first and then, from a prone position, work yourself up to your knees and then your feet.

If you need rest, you can sit on a paddleboard. Climb onto the board, sit yourself down and give yourself a minute to catch your breath.

Finding where to stand

Knowing where to stand on a paddleboard is key to balance and comfort. As mentioned before, the handle is the center point and generally the widest part of the board, making it the most stable.

Since the handle is at the center, it also keeps your board laying as flat as it is designed to on the water’s surface. By being centered and having your board flat on the water, you produce the best glide to travel. So start with your feet shoulder-width apart in line with the handle. Later, you may need to adjust your foot positioning, especially for maneuvers and conditions.

Try to relax your legs. The more you can use your knees to absorb the movement of the water through the board, the more stable you’ll be. On calm water, shift your weight left and right to unbalance the board and learn how stable the board is.

man stands holding paddleboard paddle on his head with both elbows bent at 90 degrees — To hold the paddle correctly, you should be able to rest it on your head and have your arms bent at around a 90-degree angle. | Photo: Raquel Bauer

How to hold your paddle

Unlike a kayak paddle, where your hands are spaced on the shaft, a paddleboard paddle should be held with one hand on top of the T-shaped handle at the end of the paddle, and the other part way down the shaft. When holding the paddle, you should be able to place it across your head and have both arms bent at a 90-degree angle.

Figuring out the exact length for your SUP paddle is a science unto itself. Some paddles are a fixed length, but many are adjustable, which is great for figuring out what length works best and for versatility. A good place to start is that the paddle should be a few inches longer than you are tall. From here you can make adjustments for board size and paddling activity.

You’ll also notice it’s common for SUP paddles to have an offset, where the end of the blade is pointed outward. Have it pointed out toward the front of your paddleboard, which is how it’s designed to provide you with more effective strokes.

man's feet standing on a standup paddleboard — Start by standing on the paddleboard with your feet even with the center handle and about shoulder-width apart. | Photo: Raquel Bauer.

How to paddle a standup paddleboard

Learning proper SUP paddling technique takes some time, but the basic maneuver is to pivot at the hips, reach forward to plant the whole blade in the water, and then move the blade toward your feet as you stand up straight. Rather than thinking about moving the water with your paddle, think of it as planting your blade in the water and then pulling your board forward.

woman carrying a paddleboard equipped with fins across a sandy beach

Below Board: Everything You Should Know About Paddleboard Fins

To stay in a straight line, keep your paddle as vertical as possible as you go through the stroke, and slice the blade out of the water when it’s reached your feet. The fin of your board is largely there to keep you traveling straight. You may need to occasionally switch between paddling on the left and right side of the board until you learn correctional strokes.

The basics of turning

Wondering how to turn on a standup paddleboard? The best option for beginners to turn their paddle board is the reverse, or backstroke. This turns the board relatively quickly because the backstroke throws the brakes on your momentum, especially the side the paddle is on, and the drag helps the board spin in that direction.

person uses a reverse stroke to turn while paddleboarding — Variations of reverse strokes are one of the best ways to turn the board. Here the paddler steps back to lift the nose. | Photo: Scott MacGregor

You’ll see experienced paddlers use impressive pivot turns, where they step toward the back of the board, pop the nose out of the water, and plant or sweep the paddle. As the name of the technique suggests, you can make very tight turns this way.

The pivot is a difficult maneuver for a beginner to pull off. The cross bow is more doable but can be tricky too. This is when you take your paddle from one side and reach across to the other side of the board without switching hands. Then you pull the blade and nose together like a pair of closing scissors. It’s a great turning technique that maintains some of your momentum.

Additional tips for paddleboarding

The best place to start

As you begin to standup paddleboard, you’ll start to become aware of every lake, river and pond around you because you’ll want to explore them.

Standup paddleboarders just starting out should stick to water they’re familiar with that doesn’t have a strong current, undertow or big waves. The flatter the water, the better as you learn the balance and technique of being on a SUP. Of course, even a lake or bay can change day-to-day so check weather forecasts and marine conditions to see if the day meets your ability level.

As you get more comfortable on the board, expand your horizons and enjoy the adventure that comes with gliding across bodies of water.

Man showing how to paddle board. — Practicing good vertical strokes is an essential aspect of learning how to paddleboard. | Photo: Scott MacGregor

How to get back on your paddleboard

It’s bound to happen, and safe to say we’ve all fallen off our board. Once it does, and you aren’t in a place where you can simply stand up, you may realize climbing back on is trickier than you thought. There are a few methods you can use to get back on the paddleboard.

The best way is to use the handle we keep mentioning at the center of the board to pull your chest across. Stay low until you can center and stabilize yourself and stand up from there. It’s helpful to lay your paddle parallel with the board on the far side while you climb on so it doesn’t float away.

Some people also find success going to the tail and crawling up from the back of the board. Again, stay low until you find yourself in a centered and stable position to stand up.

If you’re struggling or tired, remember your paddleboard is a giant inflatable or foam-filled flotation aid you can rest on until you are ready to climb back on or swim with it to shore. You can also have a paddling buddy put their hands on the board on the opposite side of you to hold it steady.

How to improve your balance

At first glance, standup paddleboarding appears to be entirely an arm workout, but newcomers to the sport often find it’s their legs and core that are more sore than anything.

The better your balance gets, the more the workout will shift to being about the arms or whole body. To improve your balance for paddleboarding, things like balance boards or bosu balls are extremely beneficial. Weight training to strengthen your legs will help you stabilize on the board. Wide, inflatable paddleboards also provide a good, stable platform for beginners.

Beyond that, strengthening your core, back, shoulders and arms will help make you a better, more well-rounded standup paddler.

chest-down shot of a man paddleboarding while wearing an inflatable belt-style PFD — An inflatable belt pack is a popular PFD choice for SUP. | Photo: Scott MacGregor

More on dressing for success

The lifestyle of SUPing conjures images of board shorts and bikinis, but when you are dressing for a paddlesport, you need to factor in weather, sun exposure and water temperatures in the event of falling in. In paddleboarding, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll get wet.

Woman wading into lake in the wintertime.

The Scary Truth About Surviving Capsizing In Cold Water

If you’re thinking about paddling in colder seasons, even the most experienced paddlers will wear full drysuits with sealed boots in the winter so they won’t experience the dangerous shock of cold water. Wetsuits are another good option, especially if you are coming to the sport from surfing and already have one appropriate for your water temperatures.

When it comes to personal safety, the unsinkable nature of paddleboards can be both a blessing and a curse. Many people think that because they’re paddling on a vessel that won’t sink, they don’t need to wear a personal flotation device (PFD). The problem is that accidents do still happen, and you should always be wearing a PFD—regardless of what the local marine regulations or the sometimes lenient rules at rental places might say.

A low-profile life jacket provides adequate flotation without restricting movement or bumping into your strokes. Inflatable belt-pack PFDs have become another popular option for standup paddling because they sit around your waist and are the size of a small hip pack. These inflatables come in both automatic and manual deploying designs.

The deal with leashes

The other hugely important piece of safety equipment you should almost never go without on open waterways like oceans, bays and lakes is a leash. These attach to the rear of the board and then wrap around your ankle or calf.

If you fall off your paddleboard, the leash is your lifeline. This is what keeps you attached to the board, and allows you to pull the SUP back toward you if you fall in the water. They’re crucial pieces of safety gear worn by even the most experienced standup paddleboarders.

Rivers and leashes are a different story. The use of leashes on rivers and other moving waterways is strongly debated and requires specialized gear and an understanding of considerations. The issue is, if you use a traditional leash on a flowing river and it gets snagged on an object, any current will be too strong for you to reach and release it.

Because of this danger, leashes used on a river should feature a minimum of a quick-release mechanism that is within close reach. Those who do use a leash on a river often wear these quick releases around their waist or on their life jacket. Paddleboarders considering a river leash system should consult with experienced river SUPers and have a strong understanding of implementing these safety mechanisms.

man swims in whitewater beside a paddleboard connected to him with a SUP leash

SUP Leashes: Explaining The Most Controversial Piece of River Gear

Feature photo: Scott MacGregor

Review: Norse Kayaks’ New Ask

Virginia Marshall

October 3, 2024

Henry, Goodman, Lockwood, Dennis, Foster—some sea kayak designers possess such consistency of purpose and personal expression, I know the moment I sit in one of their boats whose hand shaped it. Jesper Kromann-Andersen is such a designer.

Best Touring Kayaks For 2026

Review: Norse Kayaks’ new Ask

Norse Kayaks Ask Specs

Length: 16’8”

Width: 21.3”

Weight: 52 lbs

Paddler Weight Range: 140–240 lbs

MSRP: $3,899 CAD

norsekayaks.com

Design & performance

Inspired by the surging North Atlantic swells and rugged coastline of his native Denmark, Kromann-Andersen designs sea kayaks that excel at transforming rock gardens and surf breaks into playgrounds, yet paddle efficiently with hatches packed for a longer tour.

A proficient paddler and sailor, Kromann-Andersen, 53, has been designing kayaks for most of his adult life. He describes his approach as “dynamic efficiency”—meaning a kayak must respond as a natural extension of paddler input. He’s best known in Scandinavia for creating the popular Arrow kayaks—including the Play, Nuka and Empower—now produced by Zegul. In 2015, he made a splash in North American waters with the first of three “Danish-style” kayaks developed for Current Designs—the Prana, Sisu and Karla.

Enter Norse Kayaks. As the name suggests, Norse is a Norwegian brand that began producing composite sea kayaks in 2013. With designs for touring, expedition and fitness paddling, Norse cofounders Kjetil Sandvik and Torgeir Toppe wanted to add a playful, surf-oriented sea kayak to their lineup. There was no question who should design the new boat.

“We have been fans of Jesper’s designs for a long time,” says Sandvik, “the way his designs are maneuverable without giving up speed is just impressive.”

Kromann-Andersen paddled the fjord-fractured coast of Norway for inspiration, sketching out a compact and low-profile design with responsive handling characteristics.

The result is a pair of nimble performance sea kayaks—named Ask and Embla—designed over the same template in two sizes. At 16’3”, the smaller Embla suits paddlers from 120 to 200 pounds, while the Ask adds a modest amount of depth and five inches of length to accommodate taller and larger paddlers up to 240 pounds. Released in 2023, both models are available through Norse’s North American dealer network.

Full disclosure: I’m a huge fan of the genre of versatile and playful kayaks Kromann-Andersen is so skilled at designing. A sea kayak that is capable and efficient for multiday tours, yet lively and agile for dancing in waves, current and surf? Yes, please!

Norse Ask on the water

I’ve enjoyed all three of Current Designs’ Danish kayaks, so I’m not surprised when I slip into a Norse Ask and feel an immediate affinity. The Ask paddles like a Kromann-Andersen design, but like any work of art, it’s also beguilingly unique.

For starters, the Embla and Ask are designed around a double hard chine hull—meaning it has two distinct edges between the bottom of the kayak and its side.

“The double hard chine provides secure and well-defined secondary stability, making it effortless to hold the kayak on edge,” explains Kromann-Andersen.

detail of bow hatch on the Norse Kayaks Ask touring kayak — “Round hatches make for the most watertight seal, which is a priority in these designs,” says Jesper Kromann-Andersen. | Photo: Kaydi Pyette

detail of cockpit on the Norse Kayaks Ask touring kayak — Features that enable the kayak to feel like an extension of the paddler’s body: contoured thigh braces, adjustable backband and a low-friction seat for efficient leg drive. Add hip padding to suit, and you’re ready to surf and roll. | Photo: Kaydi Pyette

Add forward momentum, and the ability to hold a deep edge translates to responsive carved turns. Tilting the hull, you’re not only shortening the waterline, but also engaging one or both edges of the double chine. The chines act like arced keels to carve the boat with noticeably more oomph than a hull with a softer chine. With no initiation from the paddle, I could weave the Ask through linked turns simply by rocking my hips from side to side.

This allowed Kromann-Andersen to optimize the waterline and rocker for speed without sacrificing maneuverability. Good hull speed makes for easier cruising and longer miles when touring. But it’s just as valuable when playing in the surf, where swift acceleration means I can catch faster-moving waves.

detail of stern on the Norse Kayaks Ask touring kayak — Norse uses vacuum-infused composites and aramid reinforcement to reduce weight, maximize strength and produce a flawless finish. | Photo: Kaydi Pyette

Manufacturing techniques play a critical role in bringing any kayak design to life. Norse builds their kayaks at a dedicated factory in Sri Lanka, using vacuum-infused composites, including a standard fiberglass layup and carbon option.

“Norse has the capability to build very pronounced, hard chines,” says Kromann-Andersen, adding the company uses ultra-high-strength Dyneema fibers to reinforce higher wear areas like the chines and keel.

Above the waterline, the Ask and Embla’s low-profile decks catch very little wind. As a result, tracking is well behaved for such a responsive kayak, and engaging a slight edge—or dropping the adjustable skeg—quickly takes care of any weathercocking.

Both kayaks offer a four-hatch layout, including a centrally fitted day hatch and a deck hatch accessing a small grab bag just in front of the cockpit. There’s ample space behind the bulkheads to pack for a multiday tour.

By combining effortless agility with efficient touring speed, the Ask and Embla reward both experienced rough water paddlers and aspiring novices looking for a playful companion in which to unlock more advanced skills. But don’t take my word for it.

“A kayak’s character and performance is something you have to experience and feel,” says Jesper Kromann-Andersen, “it is hard to do it justice in words.”

Touring kayak reviews

Norse Kayak reviews

Cover of Issue 72 of Paddling Magazine, Issue 72

This article was first published in Issue 72 of Paddling Magazine. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

The Norse Ask is a versatile and playful companion on your next adventure. | Feature photo: Kaydi Pyette

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Best Drysuits For Paddling In 2026

Six drysuits we love for 2026

Mustang Survival Quadra

Immersion Research 7Figure

NRS Phenom Gore-Tex Pro

Kokatat Icon Gore-Tex Pro

Gill Marine Verso

Level Six Loki

…And one drysuit we don’t love

Pro Ultra King-Q

Best Touring Kayaks For 2026

Our top picks for best touring kayaks

Best expedition kayak

Nigel Dennis Explorer

Nigel Denis Kayaks Explorer Specs

Length: 17’6”

Width: 21”

Weight: 58 lbs

Recommended Paddler Weight: 150–220 lbs

Price: $4,585 USD

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom line

Best light touring kayak

Stellar S14 G2

Stellar S14 G2 Specs

Length: 14’

Width: 24.4”

Depth: 13.6”

Weight: 38 lbs (Advantage)

Capacity: 342 lbs

MSRP: $3,495 USD (Advantage)

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom line

Best touring kayak for beginners

Wilderness Systems Tsunami

Wilderness Systems Tsunami Specs

Length: 12.5’

Height: 15”

Width: 26”

Weight: 54 lbs

Max Weight Capacity: 300 lbs

MSRP: $1,419 USD

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom line

Best value touring kayak

Delta 14

Delta Kayaks 14 Specs

Length: 14’

Width: 23.5”

Depth: 13”

Weight: 45 lbs

Capacity: 340 lbs

MSRP: $1,995 USD

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom line

Best packable touring kayak

TRAK 2.0

TRAK 2.0 Specs

Length: 16’

Width: 22.5”

Weight: 44 lbs

Cockpit: 16.5” × 30.5”

Packed: 56 lbs

Size Packed: 41” × 19” × 9”

Payload Capacity: 350 lbs

MSRP: $3,850 USD

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom line

Best plastic touring kayak

P&H Scorpio MK II