The MI 415 polyethylene (PE) kayak from 1993 is the first kayak I ever bought, and I still enjoy using it very much. The Gumotex Swing is an inflatable kayak and almost 1 meter shorter. Naturally, that is an advantage for the PE kayak right away because length generally means more speed.
However, the comparison makes sense on meandering, small rivers like the Roer because the Gumotex Swing maneuvers much more easily through curves and is much more agile, whereas in the MI 415, you have to work hard in every curve just to keep the bow forward. In the slightest counter-current in inner bends, the bow immediately pushes towards the shore, causing unnecessary energy waste and requiring constant acceleration. It's similar to driving a sports car that constantly oversteers.
The biggest advantage of an inflatable kayak: Flexible transportation options and easy storage without requiring much space. With the right logistical preparation and a good bag or trolley, you can easily take it on the train or bus and even bring it on a plane trip. This means you're not constantly dependent on two cars.
The biggest disadvantage of an inflatable kayak: Inflation, setup, deflation, drying time, and cleaning. Not everyone has the patience and motivation for this.
The biggest advantage of a PE kayak: You're on the water in no time, and when you're done, you simply get out and put it on the roof or trailer. They are nearly indestructible and, in most cases, a bit faster.
The biggest disadvantage of a PE kayak: Usually heavy and bulky, you have to transport it on the roof of your car or, even worse, with a trailer. If you live in an apartment with limited storage space, you have a big problem. You also can't take it on the train or bus, so you're always dependent on two cars: one at the starting point and one at the destination to get back to the starting point. Both cars either need a roof rack or a trailer! Quite an endeavor!
Video Chapters:
00:00 Hyperlapse
00:50 Testing with the Polyethylene Kayak MI 415
3:59 Finding the "Ideal Line" on a River
5:18 Paddling with and without Offset, Which is Better?
8:30 Testing with the Inflatable Kayak Gumotex Swing
12:28 Final Verdict on Both Kayaks
Негізгі бет Спорт 30-Year-Old Polyethylene Kayak vs. Inflatable Kayak Gumotex Swing
Пікірлер: 24