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Delta Kayaks 12AR Review

If you're looking for a recreational sit-inside kayak that prioritizes comfort, stability and light weight, than the Delta Kayaks 12AR might be the kayak for you! After taking this boat for a thorough test paddle, this is what I can tell you:

First Impressions

Delta Kayaks 12AR review, side shot of kayak

The Delta Kayaks 12AR retails for $1,400, a price point that reflects its premium build and features. It's 12′ long, 26.5″ wide, and weighs a mere 42 lbs. It features Delta's adjustable, padded comfort seat, foot pegs, bulkheads in the bow and stern for safety, and hatches in the bow and stern to provide enough storage space for kayak camping trips, or any other paddling adventure you have in mind.

Portability

The Delta Kayaks 12AR impresses with its thoughtful design. At 12 feet long and a mere 42 lbs (19 kg), it's light and easy to carry and transport, which will make a big difference for a lot of people.

Delta Kayaks 12AR recreational kayak

It's lightweight nature is due to its thermoformed construction, which makes it stiffer than other plastic kayaks, and about 15-20% lighter.

On-Water Performance: Stability Meets Glide

On the water, the 12AR truly shines. Its innovative “fusion hull” is a game-changer. The strong bow keel effortlessly cuts through the water, while the unique catamaran-style stern provides remarkable stability. This isn't just marketing speak; during my test, the kayak felt incredibly secure, offering a confidence-inspiring ride for paddlers of all skill levels.

Delta Kayaks 12AR, bow of boat, review by Ken Whiting of PaddleTV

Despite its impressive stability, the Delta Kayaks 12AR maintains good forward speed, thanks to its narrow 26.5-inch width and the inherent glide of its thermoformed material. It strikes a truly harmonious balance between these often-conflicting attributes.

Comfort for All-Day Paddling

Comfort is paramount with the Delta Kayaks 12AR. The extra-large cockpit offers generous legroom, and the adjustable foot pegs provide excellent support. Even more impressive is Delta's Contour Seat System. Tall paddlers will rejoice at the ample space and the easily adjustable seat, which allows for perfect trim regardless of your size.

Durability & Thoughtful Features

Beyond performance and comfort, the 12AR offers practical features for flatwater adventures. While not as rugged as roto-molded boats, its durability is more than adequate with proper care. The two bulkheads, a significant safety feature, provide watertight compartments for buoyancy and offer surprising storage capacity, making it suitable for day trips, light kayak camping, kayak fishing, photography and more.

review of the Delta Kayaks 12AR, Side logo view

Who Is The Delta Kayaks 12AR For?

So, who is the Delta Kayaks 12AR for? It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore sheltered lakes, calm rivers, or bays. Whether you're a beginner seeking stability, an experienced paddler desiring comfort and efficient glide, or someone looking for a versatile platform for camping, fishing or photography, the Delta Kayaks 12AR delivers.

It's truly an “Adventure Recreational” kayak, living up to its name. While it's a premium investment, the Delta Kayaks 12AR offers exceptional value, providing a superior paddling experience that justifies its price tag. If you're interested in the quality of Delta Kayaks, but want a faster kayak, be sure to check out my review of the Delta Kayaks 15.5 GT!

Ken Whitinghttp://in4adventure.com
A World Champion kayaker, author of 12 books and videos about paddling, and the host of the largest paddlesports YouTube channel, Ken is one of the most accomplished and respected paddlesport professionals in the world. Ken is also the host and Producer of Facing Waves – North America’s only paddling focused TV series. Now in its 9th Season, Facing Waves is broadcast into more than 120 million US households through Outside TV, and the Bally regional sports networks.

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