Itiwit DS 1–2P Cruising
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $419.00
Our Overall Rating | 76 out of 100
Pros - Quality-built and stable
Cons - Poor tracking, small, has uncomfortable seats
Overall - A kayak for the occasional use
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 340x103cm
Weight - 14kg
Load Capacity - 150kg
Packed Size - 67x44x27cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Itiwit DS 1–2 Cruising Kayak is a tough kayak that can be used on calm water for leisure on occasion. It's an affordable alternative that's easy to pack and inflate for people looking to have some fun or learn how to kayak with their loved ones. It is relatively small, though, so it can be crowded with two adults and it's not recommended for lengthy trips. Also, paddling is not the easiest.
Performance - The kayak can be unsteady when moving, especially in choppy water, despite being stable to enter and when still. The three skegs help you maintain a straight course, but it's challenging to pick up speed and there isn't much glide when you aren't paddling, so the kayak stops moving as soon as you do.
Construction - The Itiwit 1 to 2-person kayak is covered in a sturdy fabric that fits well over the tubes but dries slowly, and the kayak tubes themselves are made of less sturdy PVC. It does, however, have a drop-stitch floor, which is a significant improvement. Although its width isn't a major problem, reaching over the large side tubes while paddling is challenging.
Setup/Pack down - The three valves of the Itiwit DS are strategically placed in the stern to make inflation simple. Also, because the carry bag zips all the way around, you don't have to try to pack it into a tiny opening, making it simple to put back into the backpack. Just remember that because of the cloth exterior, it may take a few days to dry before you can pack it away. This is to prevent mould.
Portability - The kayak is lightweight and comes in an easy-to-carry backpack, but since it doesn't include a paddle or pump, those items must be attached to the exterior of the bag because it is too small to accommodate them. The backpack's tiny shoulder straps might make wearing it over long distances rather uncomfortable. Once inflated, the kayak's built-in handles on the sides make carrying it simple.
Comfort - Unfortunately, the Itiwit’s thick, cushioned seats are uncomfortable and even make paddling difficult and uncomfortable. The backrest is also low and offers minimal support. Since there are no footrests, paddling requires extra effort from your arm muscles, which can soon become tiring. For two people, it is also quite short and squishy.
Overall - Although the Itiwit DS 1–2P Cruising kayak is not the most well-designed tandem, it does have the advantages of being lighter and less expensive.
