Origami-Style folding kayaks are becoming more popular
The portable kayak market has been on fire lately. This is for two main reasons. First, it solves the problem of storage for anyone lacking the space for a full-size kayak. And second, transporting these types of kayaks is much easier than traditional hard-shell models.
For a long time there were two options for portable designs: inflatable kayaks and skin-on-frame kayaks – both of which have their pros and cons. Oru Kayak has recently shaken up the game by introducing folding recreational kayaks that assemble like origami. I got a chance to test out the Oru Kayak Inlet and will be breaking down my findings throughout this review. How does it perform compared to other kayaks? Does it come with some trade-offs of its own? And is it a worthwhile purchase for its intended audience?
ABOUT THE ORU KAYAK INLET KAYAK
Retail Price: $899 USD
Length: 9′ 8″
Width: 31″
Weight: 20 LBS (9 KG)
Max Capacity: 275 LBS (125 KG)
Best Use: Calm Water
Is the Oru Kayak Inlet portable and easy to assemble?
Inside the Oru Kayak Inlet is a scannable QR code that links to a helpful assembly video. Some of the best kayaking spots don't have the strongest cell service so just make sure to give it a watch before setting out for your excursion.
Assembly time for the Oru Kayak Inlet
My first attempt at assembly only took 5 to 6 minutes. Oru Kayak claims a 3 to 5 minute assembly time, which is probably accurate once you get familiar with the combination of buckles, ropes, velco, and bulkheads on each side.
Portability of folding kayaks and weight
In terms of portability, it doesn't get any better than this! The Inlet folds into a glorified suitcase that weighs a mere 20 LBS. This might be the first kayak I’ve ever carried where your paddle is more awkward to carry than the boat!
Is the Oru Kayak Inlet stable?
The Inlet is the kind of kayak that anyone can settle into and feel stable and confident from the outset. This isn’t overly surprising, because 31” is quite wide for a sit-inside kayak. This indicates that it’s designed for stability more than performance.
Are the Oru Kayaks durable?
Even though the Inlet assembles from one sheet of material into a lightweight frame, it doesn't feel flimsy at all. In terms of durability, Oru Kayak claims the frame will last for 20,000 folds. I do believe this to be true, as long as this kayak is used on flat water. I'm just not sure how well it will hold up to some good hits on rocks. Your best bet is to avoid answering that question altogether by sticking to on-label use.
What is the performance of the Oru Kayak Inlet?
I was pleased to find that the Oru Kayak Inlet met my expectations. Especially for how a sub-10-foot, recreational kayak should perform. It's not a speed demon, but it’s not a slug either. It also tracks (goes straight) pretty well for a kayak that has neither a rudder or a skeg. Furthermore, the Inlet is a responsive kayak – able to turn quickly and without issue.
I had some minor blips in the beginning as I adapted to the unique frame design. My thumbs got banged up a couple of times while paddling but was soon able to adjust my stroke to the angles of the mid-section of the boat.
I did also accumulate a little water in the kayak. Water was not from leakage. The deck design is so open that the water drips from my paddle eventually built up. Not a huge deal, but if this sounds like a nuisance to you, Oru Kayak offers other models that aren’t quite as open in design, which therefore accommodates more aggressive paddling.
Is the Oru Kayak comfortable?
A benefit of the kayak’s open design is that it enhances its comfort. It's certainly nice to be able to sit cross-legged in a kayak!
As with many portable models, the seat is a weakness in the Oru Kayak Inlet. Unfortunately, the base pad isn't contoured or form-fitted for your butt. The back band provides some solid support but it's simply not as robust as something that would come with a fixed, or hard-shelled kayak.
At 6′ 2″, I'm certainly at the long end of compatibility for this boat. If you're any taller than that then you'll need to find another option. Because of my height, I didn't end up using the foot brace as a shorter person would. That being said, I was still able to tell that the foot brace system is well-designed and gives reasonable purchase/leverage while paddling.
Oru Kayak Inlet features
As would be expected from a 20 LB folding kayak, the Inlet doesn't really have any features to expound on. There aren't any gear tracks or other accessory add-ons. The Inlet simply delivers the basics in order to make kayaking accessible to anyone.
Who is the Oru Kayak Inlet for?
The Oru Kayak Inlet is a great option for anyone short on storage space or has limited options for transportation, and/or for anyone that wants an ultralight kayak. The truth of the matter is that most portable kayaks are still in the 40-50 pound range, and so at 20 pounds, the Inlet is one of the lightest kayaks available on the market.
I can see it working particularly well for people in urban environments who need something they can easily stash in their apartment, and maybe even rock an Uber to the lake with.
Aside from its portability, the Inlet is for recreational paddlers who simply want to get on the water and paddle around. It’s not the type of kayak you get to cover significant water, or to deal with windy or wavy conditions. It’s the equivalent of a cruiser bike, designed for casual tours on warm summer days.
Is the Oru Kayak Inlet worth the price?
The Oru Kayak Inlet performs as well as I expected a short, lightweight, portable kayak to perform. In my opinion, it compares to a hard-shell kayak in the $500 – $600 class. The additional cost for the Inlet goes into the portability and storage advantages. If that is a priority for you, or if you find yourself in circumstances where those features are essential for even owning a kayak, then this is a worthwhile investment.
Furthermore, the 20 pound weight of this kayak is incredible. Kayaks just don’t come lighter than this! Some expected concessions are to be made in terms of comfort, but overall, the Inlet is a wonderfully made kayak that is easy to manage. I was impressed with the unique, Origami-style assembly and pleased to see how much integrity can come from such simplicity.
I hope you enjoyed this article. For more information, check out my gear reviews, tips, and adventures on PaddlingTV.
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