Deschutes 110

The Deschutes 110 targets apartment dwellers, trunk travelers, and casual paddlers tired of the soggy, mildew-prone fabric covers typical of budget inflatables. Aquaglide solves the drying dilemma by using a single-skin Duratex PVC hull. Water beads right off, meaning breakdown requires just a quick microfiber wipe before rolling the boat up. At under twenty pounds, carrying it from the car down to remote launch spots is completely effortless.

On the water, an 11-foot profile paired with featherlight cross-ribs creates a cockpit with respectable structural integrity. Instead of a heavy, high-pressure drop-stitch deck, it uses an EVA-cushioned floor mat that saves significant pack weight while offering enough underfoot stiffness for seated stability. The low rocker and removable tracking fin help it hold a clean line across calm lakes and lazy rivers, though wind drift will push you around on wide-open bays.

This is strictly a calm-to-moderate water craft. The open cockpit allows easy entry and generous legroom, but it leaves you vulnerable to chop and boat wake. While Duratex handles submerged branches and gravel beachings fine, it still warrants caution around sharp oyster beds or jagged riprap. Compared to heavier, stiffer inflatables, you sacrifice top-end glide for unmatched portage convenience and pain-free storage.