Best of the Best: Minnesota II (Kevlar) vs Northwind 17 IXP
Minnesota II (Kevlar) vs Northwind 17 IXP
Our #1 and #2 picks from The 10 Best Canoes, compared spec-by-spec with clear pros, cons, and a verdict.
Choosing a high-performance tripping canoe can be a significant decision, impacting everything from portage comfort to on-water efficiency. Today, we're pitting two titans of the lightweight wilderness canoe world against each other: the Wenonah Minnesota II in Kevlar and the Northstar Northwind 17 in IXP. Both are revered for their exceptional touring capabilities and lightweight construction, making them ideal for extended expeditions where every ounce counts. However, their design philosophies offer distinct advantages depending on your paddling style, typical water conditions, and load requirements. Let's dive deep into the specifications and features to help you decide which of these premier tripping canoes will best serve your adventures.
Minnesota II (Kevlar)
Wenonah
The Boundary Waters tandem tripper. Fast, 42 pounds, and it carries a two-week load.
Find it on AmazonNorthwind 17 IXP
Northstar Canoes
Minnesota-built with IXP layup that shrugs off rock. The best all-around tripping canoe made.
Find it on AmazonSpec-by-Spec
| Spec | #1 Minnesota II (Kevlar) | #2 Northwind 17 IXP |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approx. 42-43 lbs (Kevlar Ultralight) | Approx. 43 lbs (IXP) |
| Capacity/Size | Length: 18' 6", Width: 34.5", Depth: 12.5", Capacity: 1000 lbs | Length: 17' 6", Width: 35", Depth: 13", Capacity: 1000 lbs |
| Materials | Kevlar® Ultralight composite (Kevlar®/S-Glass/Carbon/Core) | IXP (Innegra™/Kevlar®/Carbon/Core) |
| Price Tier | Premium (Typically $4000-$5000+ USD) | Premium (Typically $4000-$5000+ USD) |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
| Best Use | Expedition tripping, Boundary Waters, open lake paddling, long-distance touring | Expedition tripping, wilderness touring, portaging, mixed water conditions |
| Portability | Excellent (very light for its length, requires careful handling) | Excellent (very light, well-balanced for portaging) |
| Durability | Good against impact, susceptible to abrasion. Requires care. | Very Good - Innegra™ adds superior impact and abrasion resistance. |
| Feature Highlights | Fast, efficient hull design, minimal rocker, great glide, often wood trim | Moderate rocker, highly maneuverable, stable, robust laminate, often wood trim |
Minnesota II (Kevlar)
Best for: Experienced paddlers prioritizing speed and efficiency on long, flatwater expeditions with minimal portaging.
Pros
- Unmatched speed and glide on flatwater, reducing paddling effort.
- Excellent tracking, making it efficient for long distances.
- Very lightweight for its exceptional length and capacity.
- Time-tested design, a benchmark for wilderness tripping.
Cons
- Less maneuverable on winding rivers or tight turns due to minimal rocker.
- Can feel 'tippy' to novice paddlers due to its narrow, performance-oriented hull.
- Kevlar® can be more susceptible to abrasion compared to more robust laminates.
- Longer length can be cumbersome on very narrow portage trails.
Northwind 17 IXP
Best for: Versatile wilderness trippers needing a durable, maneuverable, and stable canoe for mixed-water and frequent portaging.
Pros
- Superior maneuverability due to moderate rocker, ideal for rivers and tight turns.
- IXP laminate offers enhanced durability and impact resistance for rougher conditions.
- Slightly shorter length can be an advantage on smaller lakes and portage trails.
- Excellent stability provides confidence in varied water and for diverse paddlers.
Cons
- Not as fast or efficient on flat, open water compared to the Minnesota II.
- Slightly less directional stability on vast, open lakes due to more rocker.
- May require more effort to maintain speed over long, flat stretches.
- Slightly shorter length means marginally less storage for very long trips with huge loads.
The Verdict
For pure speed and efficiency across expansive lakes and long-distance open water expeditions, the Wenonah Minnesota II in Kevlar is the clear winner. Its extended waterline and minimal rocker deliver unmatched glide, making it a favorite for seasoned paddlers on routes like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. However, for those seeking a more versatile and robust tripping canoe, the Northstar Northwind 17 in IXP takes the crown. Its moderate rocker provides superior maneuverability for mixed-water conditions, and the IXP laminate offers a significant boost in durability and impact resistance, crucial for rocky landings or unexpected encounters. While slightly slower, its enhanced stability and maneuverability make it more forgiving and adaptable to varied wilderness environments.