Having the concrete numbers for how many times you used it and showing the wear after that use is incredibly helpful for potential buyers. This video is time efficient and still thorough with some great B-roll. I hope you're successful with this youtube channel because you know how to make a review!
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@belowtwenty
Жыл бұрын
I have a Oru Bay that I bought 5 years ago that has held up really well (although I don't take it out 60 times per year).
@debbieporter1513
Жыл бұрын
Glad to know their customer service is good. I just received one and considered returning it. I own an ocean kayak but wanted something light to carry in my car for quick paddles
@LooneyTunerz
Жыл бұрын
Well, my family has had 3 replaced under warranty - 2 Inlets and a Beach LT. Within a year. After only about a dozen uses of each. All for the same reasons as noted here - a leak where multiple folds occur. There is no way the patch kit they provide can fix this. After an additional season one of the Inlets has a leak in the same place again with a dozen or fewer uses on the new Inlet. We baby these things, take them out well away from shore to get in or out - because despite their ad copy: "Oru Kayaks are incredibly puncture + abrasion resistant and built to last. They can withstand sliding over rocks, bumping into obstacles, and folding up tens of thousands of time." these kayaks are incredibly fragile and the warranty does not cover: punctures, cuts and abrasions sustained in normal use; We store them in the original boxes. Ensure we don't scrape them on rocks or the garage floor. Oru did not really want to exchange them. They sent repair kits and when I asked how I could possibly fix the specific damage (at corner of multple folds) with the kit the customer service agent didn't give a usable answer and I then asked that they be replaced. I'd grade them as A - Portability A - Transportability F - Durability We'll use them as long as they don't leak into the boat itself, but I would not buy them again. They are not worth the price.
@baot.5770
Жыл бұрын
Might want to check out the TRAK kayak for the ocean adventure.
@davidmilledge221
Жыл бұрын
@@LooneyTunerzwow thanks 4 that I was concerned about the same things and seeing other folks having problems with them yer I'm giving them a miss cheers 🍻
@Knuckleup-v6b
Жыл бұрын
So it sounds like the Oru customer service and Warranty stands true which is super important to me. Thanks for the video.
@gloppy101
Жыл бұрын
Happy to see Oru step up and take care of the defect. Remember this people if you are looking at knockoffs from a no name PO Box, shipping container company with no phone or address. I had the original Bay ST and it broke a strap, but was quickly replaced. I paddled it a lot for 3-4 years. Good paddler.
@Polska1116969
8 ай бұрын
Was watchin this review thinking these things would be like 30%, 50% maybe the cost of a hard shell. But at $1,299 AUD (for some corflute panels and a seat), when I can get a hard shell for LESS? Jesus Christ save me. Great review!
@naturalgamerjk606
3 ай бұрын
you pay for the compactness/weight :)
@cheriea802
Жыл бұрын
Thank you! This was extremely helpful in my decision to buy this folding kayak!
@baot.5770
Жыл бұрын
For the closed cockpit kayak, you might want to check out the TRAK kayak. More expensive, but last longer and faster performance.
@iLearnt-IT-on-You-Tubes
10 ай бұрын
Bro that thing is $3500! Looks like its built for performance. I honestly dont know who this was designed for? Someone who was on a college row team who wants to race at a moments notice?
@sulladrum
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video! My wife and I did a lot of research and bought the bay. Unfortunately, I have not been happy with it. Rather than the buckles that you use to fasten the inlet, there are plastic sleeves that have to be inserted and pulled up to keep the kayak together. We have found them to be extremely annoying because it’s always a challenge to try to get them to fit and stay in the grooves. The next issue we have are the bulkheads, which keep popping out. Finally, there are several areas that I could tell are going to wear out pretty quickly, such as the connection for the foot rest. Getting in and out of the bay is also challenging because it has high sides that are made for rougher water, but make it inconvenient to enter and exit. However, my biggest complaint are the seats. Both my wife and I are good for about 40 minutes of paddling before we have to get out and stretch. We immediately knew that the factory seats were terrible, so we bought padded seats to fit over the originals, but even with those, I find sitting in it very uncomfortable, and even painful after a while. I was speaking with somebody who owns a Coast and asked him what he thought of assembling and disassembling. He admitted to us that he doesn’t disassemble it, he just puts it on his roof. I think if you don’t have the room for a regular kayak, then these are great. I would definitely not get this kayak unless you want to take it out on the ocean, and even there, this kayak has many drawbacks compared to a regular ocean kayak. If you don’t have a lot of room to store or carry a kayak, than these kayaks are great. Unfortunately, they just do not suit my needs and unless you want to go into rougher waters, I think you will be just fine with the lake model
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing!
@michelleelise7
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for this video- great information. I already have an Inlet (two for our household) and feels pretty fragile to me, too, so I have been careful with it. It’s good to know what to look out for based on your experience. We’re not nearly as devoted as you are to kayaking, so I think it will take us quite a while to rack up 60 paddles! 😊 I think your commentary sort of solidifies what I had thought when I purchased- that these things are probably a nice choice for a beginner/casual/occasional paddler like me who wants easy transport and storage, but that it might not suit the needs of a more advanced paddler in all cases. I kind of wish I had waited around for the Lake.
@pickledud7703
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the honest and balanced review, really helpful
@balletstef
Жыл бұрын
I have the Beach. I've been using it for about a year and a half, and no problems, so far. I love it. I am very careful with it, though. I bring it inside so it doesn't sit in the hot car. I kayak in the marina, and get in and out from the beach. We don't really have any rocks that would cause damage. So glad that they sent you a new one!
@a13thhour
Жыл бұрын
My son and I are from central FL. We have been looking at kayaks over paddle boards. I can see how they can become an obsession. Growing up in upstate NY there was something I had called a belly boat. Back then with inner tubes in car tires, a belly boat was a canvas cover that would fit over the inner tube, it would have a seat in the center a bib to pull up over me in the inside to fasten fishing lures and not drop them in the water. It had several pockets, an inflatable back rest, few eye hooks for stringers, the operator of the belly boat would use flipper fins with or without flexible waders depending upon the water temp. The canvas was solid. I loved it. Wouldn't out it in fast moving waters tho. Even seen some guys with battery operated trolling motors. Needless to say when I came to Florida I was advised against dangling my legs into the water here. The water puppies (gators) I have since learned get a bad wrap, have not once seen a water puppy chase anyone, but I digress. So I have not been back on the water except in a rental on occasion. Now that my son has shown an interest I think its time to get a couple hard shells and get out there again. What brand are you and tour mother using and what caused you to purchase the hardshell you have? In my research so far, I have learned that all kayaks are not created equal and some are harder to move through water than others, fatiguing the operator.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I see gators all the time when I kayak, but have not had any issues. It's there home, we just kayak the other way when we see them. We have 4 kayaks in my family, 2 Oru, 1 inflatable and the hardshell. We all like the Oru's best, then the hardshell, and then the inflatable. The hardshell is Lifetime brand from Sams Club. We honestly got it just to try out because it was only $250. And the more kayaks we have, the more people we can kayak with! We thought we would use it only at the lake by my parents house. But we have since bought roof rails for my moms CRV, and have traveled with it a little. The hardshell is best for my friends that don't kayak all the time and want a more solid feel than the Oru. The Oru is a little more challenging to get in and out of then the hardshell, especially for larger people. If I was to buy a hardshell kayak for myself, I would look at Eddyline. Really nice yaks and on the lighter side. All depends on your budget. Lifetime makes a great kayak for the price.
@rocketreindeer
Жыл бұрын
That was super helpful, efharisto! I like that they didn't hassle you, so that's a good sign. Some companies think they have a licence to print money and are really slack and gunky with customer service. I hope they can use your feedback to improve, that'd be awesome. I'm still really into getting one after all your stories, putting 85 straps on and off for a hardshell isn't really how I want to invest my energy, but that's just me.
@kvmalley
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for all the videos @Hi, I’m Steph they’ve been very informative! And you do a great job! I think the Bay ST may be my Christmas present to myself! I’m excited to get out on the Tampa Bay Area waters again!
@HeadwatersKayak
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing your perspective. I just reviewed one, but I was really curious on how it would last long term. This answers most of my questions.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
So glad is was helpful! Let me know if you have any more question. I might be able to answer them.
@a-jbrown7178
Жыл бұрын
The true portability of the Oru's are their strength. I own the Beach LT. For which I got the backpack. I kayak in the sea mostly, which is about 20 minutes walk from where I live; around a mile. Or a five mile cycle to a more sheltered spot further along the coast. I am considering the Bay as my next option. And with that and my Beach I should be able to fold my Brompton bike and my Burley Travoy trailer and tow it as storage.
@mt_front
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the review! It's really informative and answered a lot of my questions.
@dazzle52k52
Жыл бұрын
Great advice. My Bay ST arrived today.
@dazzle52k52
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! I just need to measure the cockpit, as I'll get the spray deck from a different supplier. I get it, Oru kayak makes a bespoke one, but it isn't cheap. I did however buy their seat wedge. Of the reviews I saw, many said over 90-mins and numb-bum is a thing! Loving the vlogs and reviews (from the UK). 👍
@pkarowic
Жыл бұрын
Steph, I looked at one of these kayaks and was concerned how it would perform in unexpected collisions. I have been watching your videos from the first day you started using it and have been following your story of this kayak. I did buy a foldable kayak, a Tucktec. It's defiantly not as nice looking as yours but much more durable. In mid summer I was paddling in a small lake when I hit a log submerged under the water. It was a good hit, it actually lifted the kayak up a bit out of the water. I immediately paddled to shore to check the damage. To my relief there was only a swallow scratch on the front left of the kayak. That incident sold my on its durability. Anyway, your kayak, for the year you had did have it's problems. I must say that the customer service you received was top notch. For a company to replace a one year old product with new is not very common and my hat goes off to them. I hope you have better luck with the replacement. Take care and happy paddling. 😃🛶
@smalltownhomesteadAC
Жыл бұрын
I have both the Tucktec and the Oru. I concur, the TuckTec is more durable, but not as portable. It's also much slower in the water as it's heavier, but unless you are racing not a big deal. Given the price difference I would probably recommend the Tucktec but I have to say, I love my Oru!! :)
@bryan81584
Жыл бұрын
I have a fleet of oru kayaks ..bay st...haven...and Coast. They are very easy to repair, almost infinitely Modable...and yes you will get scratches on them but not much else..they can get punctured by something small and pointy, but it needs a lot of force and the hull is double layered so it'll likely only puncture one layer. Try drilling into the hull to discover that...harder than you'd think lol. Not bad kayaks.
@markconnelly1806
Жыл бұрын
It has a warranty period
@emilywillyson7
Жыл бұрын
I just got one in the summer, used it twice. Got a hole and broke a strap off which they did replace but I was not happy with how fragile it is
@richarde1355
Жыл бұрын
at 7:15 "..having the right expectations...", wise words for any relationship, even with an Oru kayak! Another great video by Steph. Thanks so much for creating these and sharing with us.
@al0324
Жыл бұрын
i have both the bay and inlet. you'll love the bay! but i gotta say the inlets so much more convenient ro setup and takedown. kinda makes me wanna get a lake too!
@natet.5738
4 ай бұрын
Thanks for this review. Was thinking of buying one and take it on the plane when I travel. “Fragile” is all I needed to hear.
@andrewmorke
10 ай бұрын
My immediate concern was durability of the seams where the kayak folds. The next was the low freeboard.
@connormcrae5686
Жыл бұрын
A lot of similarities to my experience (3 years with Coast XT). Love it but can't understand why they use such cheap parts and hardware that start falling apart almost immediately. The screw in my Oru paddle fell out as well. And their customer service, although very polite, didn't know much about kayaking, and sent me the wrong parts three times.
@peterklar89
Жыл бұрын
i think the best advantage of orustyle kajaks is that they are lightweight and you can store and transport easy but nothing beats the performance of a real seakajak
@madpogue
Жыл бұрын
Best kayak video outro found so far...... BTW is that a rescued/retired greyhound? That's so sweet, those guys are so deserving of a good retirement home.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Yes, my two greyhounds are retired racing greyhounds. I adopted them from a track here in Florida. I'm happy to provide them with a greyt retirement home! They are the best!
@WilliamIsCool15
Жыл бұрын
Definitely hit up rainbow river from the spring location down to kp hole if you are in Florida
@anthonyfamularo8875
2 ай бұрын
Just bought a Lake ... And I hope the 250lb weight limit is accurate, since I hover around 220. I imagine myself picking up three rock samples on a gravel bar, then going straight to the bottom.
@richardhughes601
9 ай бұрын
I have Beach LT...thing is sweet. I love being able to load it into the Golf R. Run up to a pond, and jump on the water.
@vinhha6073
10 ай бұрын
thank you for your time Miss..🤓.. i hope they fix all the issue you point out..👍.. i had the inflatable boat but i'm looking at kayak for exercise next year.. 👌.. hope see you out there 👍
@normg2242
Жыл бұрын
I got myself a 9 footer hard shell pelican and found out I can throw it inside my Honda Odyssey and close the hatch with two inches to spare... lol that solved my portability issues and also any durability issues. All you have to sacrifice is two seats in the back row, but you still have five seats left...
@girthquake0
2 ай бұрын
Well duh it's a minivan
@chillios2222
4 ай бұрын
cool kayak if they can improve the design in the next couple years hopefully they will
@xray606
Жыл бұрын
I hate criticizing people's products, because... as a small manufacturer myself, I know how much it sucks to have your products criticized. Nobody sets out to make a bad product. However... As someone who works with plastics... my biggest concern would be the folding of plastic. When you twist plastic back and forth, it will eventually crack/break. That's unfortunately just sort of the inherent nature of plastic. I'd be interested to see folding stress test data they've collected, if any... to see what the average fold number is before failure.
@debjenner5178
Жыл бұрын
I had a hole as well. Could not repair with Oru repair kit.
@timl4987
2 ай бұрын
Bought Lake model for $450 shipped during July 4th sale week, which included $50 discounts for new customer and free pedals. Like the katak, but kind of worried about how much kayak body bends when someone is sitting in it. Will see.
@ash.mystic
Жыл бұрын
I’m considering getting an Oru Lake and your video/channel is so helpful! I’ve been binging all your Oru videos. By the way I love that 360 zoom video clip at 8:32 😍 Very cool!
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@ngalso
Жыл бұрын
Which boat is this blue one at 8m45s?
@davebudd1429
Жыл бұрын
thank you, that was helpful!
@TheErika711
3 ай бұрын
Im new to this world and your the second review ive listened to your review is great 👍 thank you im an older single Gal Im now sold for the Oru
@TravelingOutsideTheBaatz
Жыл бұрын
Hey Steph good review. I chatted with you back when you got it, I wanted to use it in our VanLife adventures. I am glad to see they work so well and that customer service was responsive to you.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Yes! I watch your channel. Love following your adventures!
@jonathanrogers9961
Жыл бұрын
First time viewer. Really enjoyed the content, well put together. Doing some research into kayaking probably going to be getting an inflatable in the near future. Mainly looking for the exercise and the curiosity of exploring a bit. KZitem recommended this vid, and I had seen these foldable style before, definitely worth looking into for the future.
@shaun4787
Жыл бұрын
Hi Steph, I've been following your kayak vids for about 6 months. Mainly because I bought a Bay ST right around the same time you bought your Inlet. I had the same dreaded problem: holes! After my 4th outing, there were 2 holes at the Apex points, the point where multiple folding lines converge. One of the holes went through the hull, not just the outer skin. There're 4 points stick out at the base after the kayak folded up in a box. It's not hard to notice those "white knuckles" at the bottom. They take most of the stress and stretch. Tried the Oru repair kit supplied gorilla glue, didn't work. Tried epoxy, white foamy type of gorilla glue, hoping to fill/plug/seal off the channel around the hole. Nope, still leaks. The issue is that the plastic channel wall is very smooth, expoxy/CA based glue just doesn't grab on that surface very well. After a couple of folds, they came loose and pop out of the hole. I agree every one of your other pros about Oru. The durability is the only Con. So! Your vid just reminded me to complain to the Oru warranty. They need to send me a new one! My Bay ST is upside down laying in my garage right now, waiting to be glued for the 5th time! Now about that $300 Oru carbon paddle. I was a bit disappointed due to the slop/play at the junctions when 4 sections connect. The OD and ID of the telescoping poles don't have a tight tolerance. As you swing, you feel the play. The whole point of having a full carbon paddle is for its weight and stiffness=power transfer. It needs to feel super light, solid and stiff. That slop/play is annoying. I sent it back for a replacement. It's the same. There's some QA issue there. My white $100 plastic Oru paddle doesn't have the slop/play. The telescoping sections tolerance is good. So later I decided to take the matter in my own hands. I brushed a thin layer of epoxy around the male end of the pole section, which increased the OD. I lightly sanded the epoxy to the right fit. That thin layer of epoxy filled the gaps and solved the slop/rattle problem. Now, the paddle feels solid, the way it should be. Also, advice on adding carbon blade edge protector. The thin carbon edge is very delicate. About transitioning to Bay ST. It will be tippier than your inlet. The beam/width is narrower. It's faster, but also sensitive to your weight distribution. Some Core flexibility/strength is needed. Also, learning about forward paddling technique(engage core/leg) can get the most out of this nimble boat. It took me about a few months this summer to get a feel on edging the kayak. I'm still new to it. The Bay ST does handle choppy water better. I still managed to capsize once in August, after got caught in the wake of a fast power boat zipping by. Advice on self rescue: Get a paddle float. I saw your other swim pool vid on self rescue. The paddle float is a life saver. With it inflated on the other end of the paddle and set up as the 3rd supporting point, you'd climb back in your kayak in no time. Now I've been thinking about upgrading to Coast XT if I get a brand new warranty Bay ST(sell it). The reason one is that Bay ST still lacks enough storage after you put in float bags in the bow/stern bulkheads. There's only one larger space behind the seat and one small space between foot rest and the bow bulkhead wall. If I were to take it on a multi day kayak camping trip, Bay St is pretty limited. I could strap stuff on the deck, but that increases the center of gravity. The coast XT has plenty of room for camping gear and supply. The reason two is: better tracking and faster. The Bay ST is a 12 footer, I found it's tracking isn't all that good. It's steering is very sensitive to the paddle stroke. I wish it's a 14 footer. I saw people on Reddit say Coast XT tracks like a laser because it's 16 foot. It's also less tippy than the Bay ST even though it has the same beam length. Last few words on the float bags. I think you mentioned in one of your vids. During my previous last self rescue, I didn't have float bags. I found the boat was taking a lot of water while I tried to flip it over. I actually ordered those bags a few days earlier, but they didn't arrive in time for that outing. It was a lot of struggle to turn the boat over. It was taking too much water. I could've lost the boat on that day. So float bags are needed as well as the paddle float. Those are the 3 must have inflatable survival accessories on every Oru. Thanks for sharing your experiences with Oru. Would love to hear your feedback on the Bay ST. Happy paddling.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Lots of good info here. Thanks for sharing! Interesting about the Carbon paddle. We have it and I have not noticed any issue with it. I personally use an aqua bound bend shaft paddle now and love it. It's very sturdy and has a very natural feel.
@mikeandroi2698
Жыл бұрын
For the money an advanced elements kayak is better value. They are light, durable and portable. I looked at oru vs advanced elements and couldn't find a good reason to go with the oru. I have fished out of my advanced elements kayak for years and it has held up very well. The new advanced frame ultralight is only 17.5 lbs. I fish mostly ocean off Vancouver island and my AF has been a great kayak
@frankiefc3
10 ай бұрын
Thanks for the awesome review. Very helpful 💯
@Visian
Жыл бұрын
Nice video, concise and a clean production. I wish more YT videos like yours! (The dog pooping was a unique touch!) 😅😅
@michaelbrohl1625
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the great video and information. I was interested in this kayak but I'm afraid the durability issues you have experienced have turned me off of it. That's a lot of issues for only one year of ownership. To me, a kayak should not be fragile.
@petegalindez9961
Жыл бұрын
We’ve had our two Inlets for about a year now….we don’t kayak as often as you, but ours are in perfect condition. We bought one for my sister and she had the broken front piece too after a week! They sent her a new one and it’s all good now…Why didn’t you try Flex Seal on the hole in your kayak? We used it on a 3/4 inch round hole my dad had in his row boat (metal), and it worked great….
@johndaddabbo9383
Ай бұрын
I was so very much wanting this to work for me and for both Portability AND Performance (Coast XT) it certainly does, BUT so many Quality issues very so few # of usages... SORRY, saving my Hard-earned money for a very high quality long lasting, nearly as portable, and waaaaay better performing TRAK 2.0 (and 75% more expensive and IMO well worth it).
@peterklar89
Жыл бұрын
could testdrive the bay with a real cockpit where you could put a spraycover on and thats essential when you paddle on the sea.the weight is amazing but only would use it for travel with train or airplaine if you go by car a real kajak performs better and you have watertight sections where you can store you luggage on multiday trips.and if you capsize its more easy to reentry and pump the water out.just installed an electric pump on my aquarius sealion lv
@korneliusthegrey4923
Жыл бұрын
I like your fawn greyhound. My greyhound is black-and-white. Thank you for the review I was interested in feedback on how those kayaks were.
@georgewilliamssr5230
Жыл бұрын
Super cool your out paddling. But the amount of mischief I get into kayaking. I'll stick with my hard shells.
@brucejohnson1264
Жыл бұрын
I had a folding porta boat. I had a similar experience. It failed on the creases after a few uses. It was expensive too.
@robertkelleher1850
Жыл бұрын
At this price point a 1 year warranty is insufficient. Material costs on these kayaks is well under $150 probably under $100 for the smaller models. That said. I'm probably going to buy one anyway.
@Orandu
10 ай бұрын
Lol the dog at the end!😂
@casper2yall
4 ай бұрын
Great video
@JLWall27
21 күн бұрын
Is the seat comfortable and supportive? Can you maintain good posture?
@smkauthor
20 күн бұрын
I use the Oru gel seat and yes it's comfortable. I can maintain a good posture. The back seat is adjustable. Having a full back lifejacket helps with the back seat comfort too.
@richwallach1129
8 ай бұрын
Thank you. That is so helpful.
@jillheier2969
Жыл бұрын
Hi Steph! Thanks for all the good information on your reviews of the Oru kayak. We just ordered two of the Lake kayaks for myself and my husband and I are excited to get them on the water. Your information is helpful for us newbies to an origami kayak. We kayak with our dog and I love your T-shirt and wondering where it came from?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
It was from paddling.com but they don't make shirts anymore :(
@donnamcree420
Жыл бұрын
I am thinking of buying an Oru kayak for rivers and maybe the ocean… I don’t know whether to get the lake or beach model… I love the fact that I won’t need an air compressor or have to worry about lifting.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
If you want to kayak the ocean, you probably want to look at the close-cockpit kayaks. Bay ST & Coast XT.
@Taxberg214
Жыл бұрын
Very helpful. Thank you!
@ghank13
Жыл бұрын
Great video! It was chock full of very useful information. I have been looking at these kayaks because of their portability (yes, you are right, strapping a hard shell kayak on top of my car is a lot of work!!). I am concerned about durability, but it seems to me that their customer support really took care of you in the long run. I am looking at the Bay AST and my concern is shelling out almost $1500--but I think your video really helped me out with this issue. The way I look at it it still is a very affordable option or else I would need to spend $20-$30k for a truck--and I don't want to do that.
@davidryder3374
Жыл бұрын
Trucks make lousy kayak carriers. I paddle 2-3 times a week with a group of serious sea kayakers and not one uses a truck to carry their boats. One person has a tiny Prius and carries TWO 18-ft long boats (hers and her husband's). I carry mine on a small SUV, which works perfectly. Several people use regular passenger cars.
@supertuscans9512
Жыл бұрын
Why is a truck not suitable for carrying a kayak? Surely it enables you to tow a couple of skis and carry a kayak.
@HorseLove4Life
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for your great, informative videos about Oru kayaks, I've watched quite a few of them since I'm trying to decide if I should get an Oru and if so, which model. One complaint I've heard about the Lake is that it doesn't track very well and twists from side to side quite a lot with each paddle stroke. Have you experienced any issue with that when paddling your Lake/Inlet?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I think the lake and inlet both track well. For a light kayak, I think they track better than inflatables I have used.
@jaxmyers
9 ай бұрын
Are you still happy with the Lake and do you stand by wha you said that the Lake and Inlet roughly perform the same? I just ordered a Lake for what I think is a really good price ($400 including shipping and tax). The Amazon Oru store page had a random 25% coupon which I had never seen before, so I jumped on it, it's the black one. I had previously thought I'd get an Inlet but after seeing your video I went with the Lake instead, especially at $400 for the black one, it seemed too good to pass up...
@smkauthor
9 ай бұрын
Yes, still happy with the lake. I do use my inlet more, but just because it's mine and the lake is more used by my mom or a friend. But every time I use the lake I think it's very similar to the Inlet performance.
@jaxmyers
9 ай бұрын
@@smkauthor In the video you said you would not buy the Inlet model again. Do you still think you'd get the Lake if you were starting from scratch? After watching you video, I added Amazon's add-on 2-year extended warranty to my purchase which covers anything the manufacturer refuses to cover. I feel like my biggest concern about this kayak is the possibility of it leaking so at least I have a solution it doesn't last for 2 years. At least you had good experience with the manufacturer's warranty but I've heard Oru isn't the best company to deal with regarding issues, and if an issue happens 1-day after the 1-year warranty expires you'd be out of luck...
@ndogg20
Ай бұрын
Great review! What I take away from this is the Oru is in the long run a flimsy product not designed to last in constant use, its overpriced as to make up for replacements which the manufacturer passes off as good customer service. I believe they replace only a few as most buyers won't be using them that much so in the long run they profit. So good business model, poor product.
@kmazinthewoods6634
Жыл бұрын
I found your videos when I was researching the oru kayaks. Great job! I’m smitten with both… you and the ORU.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@janepellicciotto6159
Жыл бұрын
Interesting that you think the Inlet performs similarly to Lake. I just got an Inlet to upgrade from Lake because even though I love it, I feel like it can be a bit sluggish, especially when paddling with people in $5000 kayaks. But given your assessment, I might return the Inlet and save some $.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Yeah, they are very similar in my experience. If you want something faster, you might want to look at the Bay ST or the new Beach sport (I have not tried either myself yet).
@josephlynn85
Жыл бұрын
Great points!
@janicechampney333
3 ай бұрын
I can not get my lake kayak to fold back up. The folds in the bottom don't want to fold once the back and front are folded in. Any suggestions?
@smkauthor
3 ай бұрын
Try switching the front and back (which one you put in first). The first few times it's pretty stiff at first. If you still can't get it I would contact Oru support to make sure there is not a defect with the one you have.
@rickypyun
4 ай бұрын
For kayaking with a bigger dog, would you recommend the Lake or the Inlet? Thanks
@smkauthor
4 ай бұрын
I have not tried it, but you probably want to look at the Beach LT as it has more room for a dog.
@Molotovgirl97
Жыл бұрын
Is the seat comfortable? I’ve heard that it can hurt your back.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I use the Oru gel seat and find it comfortable with no pain.
@trentspencer7991
Жыл бұрын
It literally looks like it is made from disposable packaging. I'm actually surprised it lasted 11 months. I just saw the prices 🤣
@jareddavis1054
Жыл бұрын
Hey Steph I have a question in regards to the brand / model of your portable fresh water sprayer for spraying off your kayak in dirty water. Plz read this comment and get back to me with a answer
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Rinse Kit Portable 1.75 gallons of Water Pressurized Spray for 4 Minutes: amzn.to/3RWHMOA
@mikehenthorn1778
Жыл бұрын
the screw problems could be solved by some thread locker.
@TaiganTundra
Жыл бұрын
Would you recommend this for bug-out/survival scenario?
@joseville
Жыл бұрын
Great information! 3:20 Which channels? 6:30 Did you get the Lake or Lake+? The Lake+ has adjustable seat height, a foot rest, and a few other upgrades over the Lake.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
1. This might help explain it: kzitem.info/news/bejne/zJui2J6rqHqSg20 2. I ordered the Lake but the seat I got is the one that comes with the Lake +. I don't know why, because I don't have the other features of the Lake +, just the seat.
@joseville
Жыл бұрын
@@smkauthor thanks for the info!
@EuropaWill
Жыл бұрын
Did the leak occur at one of the folding seams or just a random spot?
@@smkauthor Thanks for getting back Steph, you're videos are great. This really challenges their claim that the the Oru can handle thousands of folds. They aren't factoring in normal scuffs that occur at the bottom of the boats which by design have many fold points. I'm about to pull the trigger on a Tucktec as it was between the Oru Lake and that. I like the optional stabelizers that work with the Tucktec. Though some people have reported Tucktec's buckling with aftermarket seats installed as it may mess with the weight distribution pressure points. Nothing is perfect but since I have a small convertible, these are my top choices. I have zero confidence with the inflatable options.
@chiquita7070
Жыл бұрын
Would you recommend for or against with spraying the bottom with flex seal? I just got one! But I’m wanting the bottom to be more durable
@craigcraigster5605
5 ай бұрын
I'm 6ft 2 and 240 lbs. Would tall people be able to use this?
@smkauthor
5 ай бұрын
The weight limit for the Inlet is 275lb so you would might be more comfortable in the next model up, Beach LT which is 300lb max.
@t.n.1953
Жыл бұрын
What model is your RinseKit? That looks super handy for rinsing off a muddy boat before loading up. Thanks!
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
Rinse Kit Portable 1.75 gallons. Not sure if they made this one anymore though.
@petegalindez9961
Жыл бұрын
On the material, I wouldn’t compare it to yard sale material…It’s pretty much what the US Postal Service uses for mail bins.
@madpogue
Жыл бұрын
That's the same material as yard signs. It's called coroplast, short for corrugated plastic. I believe it's polystyrene. Granted the kayak and USPS boxes are thicker, but the material and structure are the same.
@Shelty6
Жыл бұрын
Is there a foot strap for the Lake Kayak? Mine didn't come with one.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
You can you buy one from Oru.
@karieltheone
Жыл бұрын
How does it stand agaist a high end inflatable kayak?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I made a video about that: kzitem.info/news/bejne/t5t93a2IrHafiKQ
@user82938
Жыл бұрын
Any advice on fixing the front fairing? Mine broke too.
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
kzitem.info/news/bejne/qm2A1aerjYFobIo
@inund8
Жыл бұрын
How is your new kayak doing 7 months later?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
The new one is doing great so far!
@paraglidingprospector
6 ай бұрын
As an owner of two Oru Kayaks (Beach LT and Bay ST), I would like to emphasize that (in my opinion), folks should really consider: Are you used to running your kayaks aground and up onto the shore/rocks/dragging them? If so… Oru’s aren’t for you. Can I replace a screw myself? Or will I spend a few hours packing up my paddle to ship it back to the manufacturer, pay for shipping, and wait until my paddle returns before I can go kayaking again? Am I able to do minor stitch work? Can I mend a small leak on everyday plasti-core using a patch, glue, and/or tape? Do I want a hackable-kayak I can modify and upgrade -or- do I need a regular hard shell kayak which doesn’t unfold or come apart? Sit-on-top? Maybe a canoe is better if you’re a gear-head with a cooler, a dog, and fishing gear? If you get frustrated with IKEA furniture builds, then this is not the kayak for you! Personally, I keep the creases clean from sand or debris prior to folding up my Oru’s. Any minor leaks I’ve found have been EASILY REPAIRED using a hot glue gun (keep a cheap power inverter in your vehicle for the 12V plug and you can do quick repairs at the lake!). I’ve only had one minor leak at a crevice, but I bought my Oru’s used so I blame the last guy! 😂 All in all, if one loose screw is too much for you, then I would strongly advise against buying an Oru. However, if you’re handy and can tackle minor repairs, then the lightweight versatility of these kayaks will keep you smiling on the water for years. I’ve never sent mine back to Oru and have had them for 4 or 5 years now. I would absolutely recommend Oru Kayaks to folks with limited storage space and *only* to those who are handy / aren’t afraid to tackle minor repairs. Remember, Oru is a small company, based out of California so for them to replace your kayak with a brand new one is stellar! Lastly, pro-tip: keep some Aluminum Foil Duct tape handy (get it at your hardware store) and keep a little in your dry-bag. Most foil tape is water proof and it works great as a quick fix if you ever manage to puncture the plasti-core. Haven’t had any major punctures yet, but it works great for the minor patches! 🤙🏼 Yak Attack!
@paulovinicius5001
Жыл бұрын
What would be your recommendation for a 6’2”, 247 lbs rider (me)? Do you think the Lake would be fine, or if the Inlet would make more sense, or in my case none of them would make any sense at all? Watching many of your videos recently - great work - but would really appreciate some help in deciding. Thank you!
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I think you might be more comfortable in the Beach LT. I have not used it, but it has a weight capacity of 300lb and is a little longer than the other two. You don't want to be too close to the weight limit as you will also have some gear with you.
@paulovinicius5001
Жыл бұрын
@@smkauthor thank you!
@antonimocil7449
Жыл бұрын
How much
@MrKelvin2230
Жыл бұрын
I live in central Florida, and i am trying to decide on either Oru or Tuctek but to be honest im also kind of worried about encounter an aligator while kayaking in a folding kayak. have you had bad experiences?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I see countless alligators kayaking in North FL, and never had any issues. I always follow kayak and gator safety.
@Mark-yy2py
Жыл бұрын
You should get a free kayak from Oru for all the nice things you were saying about it!
@MikeycatOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Wow, you're filling me with confidence with my Lake kayaks going forward. 🤣 How often were you using your kayak on average per month?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I kayak at least once a week.
@lorenzomendoza1748
Жыл бұрын
@Hi, I'm Steph I love the shirt! Where is it from??
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
It's from paddling.com but they don't sell shirts anymore :(
@KarenMcMurtry
Жыл бұрын
Love it.
@iwiIInotreply
5 ай бұрын
Saved me from buying it thank you
@peterklar89
Жыл бұрын
a sit on top is not a kajak when you compared it to your inlet.its heavy dont paddle very fast compared to a real kajak.
@mofosoto
Жыл бұрын
Anyone tell you that you look like Amanda Nunes? Pretty cool person to be a look-a-like with!
@KeepItSimpleSailor
4 ай бұрын
Gimmicky nonsense - corflute is not much better than waxed cardboard. If I’m spending money I need value and durability
@twiceasbright2219
Ай бұрын
My advice is dont buy oru get a tuktec its a hard shell portable and cheper
@atheosathonille130
Жыл бұрын
I live in Alaska, and have been looking for Kayak alternatives because I don't like constantly strapping and unstrapping large karaks and was curious about this one. Have you tried coating sections that leaked with Flex Seal with a brush, or do you think that would've been too heavy of a product?
@smkauthor
Жыл бұрын
I did not try it, since it was in warranty and I didn't want to do anything to void that. People gave a lot of suggestions in the comments of this video: kzitem.info/news/bejne/zJui2J6rqHqSg20
@Perceivedshift
Жыл бұрын
These are so overpriced, you can get a high end inflatable for the same price. I’d also never take one of these on a river, my $70 index inflatables lasted for years with rocky river abuse. These just seem like a bad idea, buy a plastic or inflatable.
@carmelita3119
4 ай бұрын
Which inflatable did you buy? I'm interested
@dogsigh
Жыл бұрын
They should use recycled political signs- that's what the material reminds me of
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