#4 on this list
Excursion Pro K2
Intex
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 represents a major step up in material quality and design from basic recreational inflatables. Constructed with a three-ply laminate skin—a polyester core sandwiched between heavy-gauge PVC—the hull accepts higher internal air pressures than entry-level vinyl boats. This increased rigidity reduces floor sag, improves hull speed, and provides genuine abrasion resistance against gravel bars and brushy banks. Intex built this boat with kayak anglers and recreational paddlers in mind. It comes equipped with two integrated flush-mount fishing rod holders, adjustable foot braces, and elevated bucket seats that provide decent lumbar support. Two interchangeable skegs are included: a deep fin for flatwater tracking and a shallow fin for operating in weed-choked shallows or rocky rivers. The tracking is surprisingly straight for an inflatable at this price, holding course far better than cheaper vinyl competitors. At the water's edge, inflation takes around ten to twelve minutes with the provided high-output pump, utilizing recessed spring-loaded valves. The hull handles two medium-sized adults reasonably well, though taller paddlers will find the cockpit crowded when loaded with tackle boxes or dry bags. Like all bare-laminate PVC boats, clean-up is fast—a quick wipe-down with a microfiber towel and it is ready to be folded. It hits a sweet spot between budget affordability and genuine outdoor capability. **Highlights** - Tough three-ply laminate PVC skin resists punctures and cuts - Integrated flush-mount rod holders for casual kayak angling - High-pressure spring valves hold pressure securely and release quickly - Includes interchangeable skegs for shallow water or deep tracking - Foot braces provide leverage for efficient paddle strokes **Watch-outs** - Tandem legroom is cramped for two tall paddlers - Carry bag material and stitching are cheap and prone to tearing
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#5 on this list
Deschutes 110
Aquaglide
The Aquaglide Deschutes 110 is built for solo paddlers who want a lightweight, quick-drying boat that sets up in minutes without sacrificing hull structure. Utilizing Aquaglide's Feather-Frame design, the boat combines single-layer Duratex PVC tube construction with an EVA-foam-covered rigid floor. The absence of nylon fabric covers means the entire boat sheds water instantly, keeping packed weight minimal and eliminating garage drying rituals. On the water, the Deschutes feels agile and responsive. The bow and stern feature molded plastic nose cones that cut through light wake, and the low-profile side tubes minimize windage compared to bulbous traditional inflatables. The cockpit is wide and open, making it exceptionally easy to enter and exit from docks or shallow beaches. The seat is well-cushioned with an adjustable high backrest that anchors securely to floor straps, giving you decent posture for long paddle sessions. The trade-off for its featherweight build is stiffness in heavy chop. While the floor is firm underfoot, it does not match the rigidity of a full drop-stitch platform, meaning you will feel waves flexing through the hull if conditions turn rough. However, for calm lakes, slow-flowing rivers, and paddlers who need to carry their boat from an apartment to the water without throwing out their back, the Deschutes is one of the most practical solos on the market. **Highlights** - Single-skin Duratex construction wipes dry instantly for immediate pack-down - Exceptionally lightweight design allows effortless solo carrying - Rigid nose cones improve wave penetration and directional stability - Low-profile tubes reduce lateral wind push on open lakes - Comfortable, highly adjustable seat with firm back support **Watch-outs** - Moderate hull flex when paddling through larger waves and wakes - Open cockpit design allows windblown spray to enter easily
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Excursion Pro K2 | Deschutes 110 |
|---|---|---|
| Hull Material | 3-ply laminate PVC with polyester core | Reinforced single-skin Duratex PVC |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs (180 kg) | — |
| Boat Weight | 39 lbs (17.7 kg) | — |
| Length | 12 ft 7 in (384 cm) | 11 ft (335 cm) |
| Air Chambers | 3 independent chambers | — |
| Inflation Time | 10 to 12 minutes with included pump | — |
| Weight | — | 19 lbs (8.6 kg) |
| Capacity | — | 300 lbs (136 kg) |
| Floor Style | — | EVA foam over rigid structural base |
| Packed Dimensions | — | 30 x 17 x 11 inches |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Excursion Pro K2
- Three-ply laminate PVC skin provides real puncture and tear resistance
- Dual skeg options deliver respectable tracking on flat lakes
- Adjustable foot braces allow functional paddle leverage
- Bare PVC skin wipes dry quickly without absorbing water
- Cockpit is cramped for two paddlers over six feet tall
- High side tubes get pushed around aggressively by crosswinds
- Factory storage bag uses flimsy fabric and weak seams
Deschutes 110
- Weighs only 19 pounds for painless solo carrying and transport
- Single-skin Duratex PVC wipes completely dry in seconds
- Low-profile side chambers significantly reduce crosswind drift
- Molded nose cones cut water cleaner than blunt inflatable bows
- EVA floor lacks the rigid stiffness of a high-pressure drop-stitch mat
- Open cockpit takes on water readily in heavy wind chop or wake
- Hull flexes noticeably when traversing steep swells
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