Intex Challenger K2
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $259.00
Our Overall Rating | 64 out of 100
Pros - Cheap, simple, stable
Cons - Poor quality and uncomfortable
Overall - A budget kayak for recreational use
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 351x76cm
Weight - 17.3kg
Load Capacity - 181kg
Packed Size - 71x46x30cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Intex Challenger K2 is a kayak designed for recreational paddlers who paddle occasionally and casually. It's a straightforward, inexpensive kayak with exceptional stability and because of its streamlined form, even inexperienced kayakers will find it simple to paddle. Although it can feel squishy and uncomfortable, it’s a great value kayak for families.
Performance - Even for beginners, the Intex Challenger K2's excellent stability and streamlined design make paddling a breeze. While for little paddlers, the bulky side tubes might make paddling difficult, getting in and out is simple, and the paddles are rather long and easily reach the water. It doesn't go very quickly and if you don't secure the skeg, it's unstable and will probably tip as you paddle.
Construction - In comparison to comparable kayaks, the Challenger K2's vinyl material feels a little fragile and has noticeable seams. It’s constructed with an inflatable L-beam floor and a low-profile deck for comfortable paddling, and it comes with aluminium paddles, a pump and a repair kit. The chairs are not the greatest for recliner use because they are a little short.
Setup/Pack down - With the 3-point inflation, the Intex Challenger K2 inflatable kayak can be set up in less than 8 minutes, and the pressure gauge lets you know when the kayak is inflated to the proper pressure. The provided pump is small and awkward, so it's useful to bring an additional one. Being a relatively tiny kayak and being simple to dry and deflate, packing it up is also simple.
Portability - The duffel that the Challenger K2 comes in has enough room for one or two life vests and can be conveniently stored in a cupboard. The pack as a whole is not heavy to carry down to the water because the paddles are also light, but carrying it can be challenging due to the thin handles.
Comfort - For larger paddlers, the kayak can feel a little squishy and constricting to sit in. The backrests are a little too short, so they're not ideal for people who want to paddle while reclining, however, it does include storage cargo nets and movable chairs. Just don't expect your possessions to stay dry; the cockpit isn't waterproof.
Overall - The Intex Challenger K2 is a cheap, straightforward budget kayak that is suitable for kayaking on lakes and quiet rivers, but it won't win any prizes.
