Oru Lake
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $799.00
Our Overall Rating | 73 out of 100
Pros - Light and portable
Cons - Doesn’t track well and is uncomfortable
Overall - Portability at the cost of performance
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 274x81cm
Weight - 7.7kg
Load Capacity - 113kg
Packed Size - 107x25x46cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
In order to design the most basic portable kayak conceivable, the Oru Lake is a superb example of thinking outside the box. If portability is your primary issue, this is an excellent alternative because it is really light and simple to set up. Its drawbacks include mediocre aquatic performance and the common problem of folding kayaks' folds wearing out over time.
Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 4/10
Tracking: It tracked poorly in a straight line…
Manoeuvrability: It was actually quite manoeuvrable due to its smooth underbelly and short, wide form.
Stability: Despite being wide enough to ensure primary stability, we found secondary stability to be subpar when moving.
Load Handling: We definitely wouldn't recommend this for anyone over 100kg or of any significant height, even though the capacity rating climbs to 113kg.
You are separated from the water by only a thin layer and you can definitely feel it so, in our opinion, the Oru Lake is best used on calm water.
Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 5/10
In the realm of folding kayaks, Oru is undoubtedly of the highest calibre. Strong materials and buckles were used, and the kayak's design was carefully considered to be both straightforward and practical.
Although it doesn't always affect durability, the nature of folding kayaks causes the folds to loosen over time. This can affect paddling enjoyment, especially in kayaks like this one without an internal metal structure.
Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding and drying): 5/10
In comparison to the other kayaks we examined, this one is unquestionably one of the easiest to set up and pack away. We assembled it in about three minutes, and it unfolds and buckles without difficulty.
The materials wipe or drip dry fairly easily, so mould shouldn't be an issue. Packing up was also a cinch.
Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 5/10
The Oru Lake excels in this area as well, since it is the lightest kayak we tested, weighing only 7.7kg, and it folds into a handy ‘briefcase’ style package that is simple to carry with one hand.
It was one of the kayaks that scored the highest on portability from us.
Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 4/10
We definitely wouldn't recommend this for anyone over 100kg or of any significant height, even though the capacity rating climbs to 113kg. The lack of a footrest and the side panels' interference with the seat back's paddle strokes are both not ideal.
Although we usually prefer a firmer surface to sit on, we find that this one is a little too hard, although Oru does offer a seat with a gel cushion to purchase separately.
Value for money:
The Oru Lake is a great choice in terms of mobility, but the compromises in comfort and paddling performance are worth weighing against the price, especially for larger or taller paddlers.
Best for:
Paddlers who prioritise portability above all else
Calm water only
Lighter, average-height paddlers
Anyone wanting the quickest possible setup and pack down
Overall:
As mentioned, the Oru Lake folding kayak is a good choice if you’re after something portable, but we’d only recommend it if you’re only ever heading out irregularly and need something you can easily move around due to how uncomfortable it can be and its poorer paddling capabilities.
