Jackson Kayak says the Antix 2.0 brings play, river-running, and creeking together into a one-boat-fits-all package. They think it's the go-to whitewater kayak, but it's my job to test that claim by thoroughly testing this boat. And that's exactly what I've done. I launched into some pretty gnarly rapids, played around, and even took a few L's (cough…I mean gauged the durability of my gear). Let's start by breaking down the specs/features of this kayak and then we'll get into the results of my splashing around.
ABOUT THE JACKSON KAYAK ANTIX 2.0 (large)
Retail Price: $1599 (USD)
Length: 8′ 5″
Width: 28″
Weight: 42 LBS (19 KG)
Volume: 76 Gallons
Capacity: 165 – 230 (75 – 105 KG)
Like any modern white-water kayak, the Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 has great outfitting that includes: a comfortable seat, hip pads, padded thigh hooks, and an adjustable back-band. The thing that caught my eye right out of the gates was the revised hull design. The original Antix had a planing flat-hut, but it wasn't quite to this extent.
The new hull looks playful and is designed to punch over waves even better than before. The Antix 2.0 also has a low-volume, slicey stern, which is great for messing around, pivot-turns, stern squirting, etc. At the same time, it has a more bulbous bow section for punching through waves and surfacing quickly when you're boofing or going over drops.
Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 Review
I paddled around for about two and a half hours, pulling out all the tricks in my arsenal to see what the Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 can do. If I had to pick one word to describe this boat, it would be confidence. I felt confident right from the launch, and that only grew with each stroke and maneuver. In fact, I would put almost anyone in this boat – a beginner, intermediate, or an advanced paddler.
Every one of those people would enjoy the Antix for their own reasons, and that's because of the instant confidence. As a beginner, you can learn the basics like eddy turns and ferries. An intermediate kayaker can start to surf, rock some stern squirts, practice boofing, and delve into full-on river-running. Finally, advanced paddlers will be able to push their limits in this boat. Confidence is key when it comes to white-water, and that's the gift that the Antix 2.0 gives to its occupants.
With all that being said, is this the best creek-boat in the world? No. Is it the best play-boat? No. Is it the best river-runner? Well, it may not be the absolute best, but it did a fantastic job and so I would consider it a contender. Is it the ultimate, all-round kayak? I'm not ready to give it that distinction either, but stay tuned for my kayak-of-the-year award(s). Once I've tested a slew of other boats in this class, I'll be ready to crown the definitive champ. But for now, just know that the Antix 2.0 kicks some serious butt (while keeping yours nice and cushy).
Is the Antix 2.0 kayak comfortable?
For reference, I'm 6′ 2″, 195 pounds, so I went with the large version. The Antix 2.0 is also available in small and medium options. The 76 gallon volume of the large kayak is part of what gave me the eagerness to take this boat, and my substantial frame, into almost any conditions. If I wanted something more playful, then a smaller size would have been better.
However, because of my height I was already pushing the limits of the Antix's outfitting. I was very comfortable in the large kayak, but I still had the bulkhead almost as far as it was allowed to go, and the seat was as far back as I could get it. I have long legs, so this is not an unusual arrangement for me. But I also know of larger paddlers than myself. I think that's one area where Jackson Kayak could make some further accommodations. For now, taller people can still make some custom alterations to better suit their needs.
Is the Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 kayak worth it?
The Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 excels as a river-running boat. Regardless of your experience level, if you're looking for something to boost your confidence and take your skills to the next level, then this is certainly a worthwhile investment. It may not necessarily be the all-round miracle boat that Jackson Kayak touts, but it is undoubtable a top-tier offering for fun on the white-water.
For more gear reviews, tips, and to follow along with my paddling adventures, be sure to check out PaddleTV.
