Inflatable kayaks are a great solution for people who can't transport or store a traditional, hard-shell kayak. The flipside is that this portability and storability usually comes at a cost in performance, comfort, and durability. The Star Rival kayak was designed with the idea that an inflatable can be just as comfortable as a hard-shell kayak. And so, among other things, this is one of the features that I set out to test. Here’s what I can tell you after spending an afternoon putting the Star Rival Inflatable Kayak to the test on the Ottawa River.
ABOUT THE STAR RIVAL KAYAK
Retail Price: $945 – $995 USD
Length: 12’6”
Width: 38”
Weight: 31 lbs (14 kg)
Max Capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
The Star Rival Inflatable Kayak comes in two very similar styles/models. A recreational version and a kayak fishing version are the two options. The difference between the two is that the fishing version has five (instead of one) surface mounts integrated into the kayak. The kayak is more customizable with accessories like rod holders, fish finders, camera poles, etc. Otherwise, the two versions share the same features. The Rival has a drop stitch construction deck that inflates to eight psi. This gives the kayak solid overall stiffness. The side pontoons, which are not drop stitched, only inflate the three psi. The kayak comes with a framed, mesh seat, which straps securely to D-rings on the kayak. The inflatable kayak has a drain port under the seat that prevents water from pooling on the deck. There are bow and stern bungees to secure gear. The Rival kayak has a removable fin to help it paddle in a straight line. The kayak also comes with a carry bag, pump, and repair kit, and it features a very respectable 3-year warranty.
So that’s what you get with the Star Rival Inflatable Kayak. But the questions remain – how does this kayak feel and perform on the water, and is it worth the money? To figure that out, I took the Rival on a two and a half hour test paddle on the Ottawa River. Here’s what I learned.
How fast is the STAR Rival inflatable kayak?
“Compared to most other 12’ kayaks, the Rival is not a fast kayak.” If there’s one thing that you wouldn’t buy this kayak for, it’s speed. Compared to most other 12’ kayaks, the Rival is not a fast kayak. This is largely due to its wide and flat hull, which is more similar to a SUP than a typical kayak. Rather than slicing through the water, the Rival bounces its way across the surface. This is particularly noticeable when paddling into any type of waves. When doing so, the flat bow of the kayak slaps the waves as they roll through. This accentuates the fact that the kayak isn’t designed for speed.
How stable is the STAR Rival kayak?
“What the Rival gives up in speed, it gains in stability.” What the Rival gives up in speed, it gains in stability. It is a remarkably stable kayak that makes it easy to move around or stand up. You can even lie down and comfortably have a nap on the kayak, as if it was a personal floating dock.
Is the STAR Rival kayak maneuverable?
“Once again, what the Rival gives up in speed, it gains in maneuverability.” The Rival can be used with, or without its removable fin. The fin is there to help the boat go straight more effectively. I can confidently say that there’s no reason to use the kayak without the fin, as the kayak is highly maneuverable either way. Once again, what the Rival gives up in speed, it gains in maneuverability.
Is the STAR Rival inflatable kayak comfortable?
“The Rival gets high comfort marks for a number of reasons.” The Rival gets high comfort marks for a number of reasons. First off, the wide and open deck offers paddlers the freedom to move around, stretch, or even lie down. Secondly, the elevated and framed seat dramatically improves one’s comfort while sitting. The seat is more comfortable than most kayak seats. When your butt is higher than your feet, sitting is more comfortable. This sitting position causes less strain on the lower back and legs. The Rival does have one comfort related issue, which is the lack of any support for the feet. Without this support, your legs naturally have a desire to straighten out, which puts strain on the knees. There’s no support underneath the legs. In my opinion, this is a pretty significant oversight that should be addressed.
How durable is the STAR kayak?
“…my previous experiences with Star inflatable kayaks have all been extremely positive”
Being an inflatable kayak, it’s important to discuss durability. My previous experiences with Star inflatable kayaks have all been extremely positive. I took one on a five-day whitewater river fishing trip last year, and the kayak showed no weaknesses, despite being ground over rocks repeatedly. The kayak has a 3-year warranty demonstrates the confidence that the company has in its product, and I see no reason to question that confidence.
Who is the Star Rival kayak for?
Overall, the Star Rival is a high quality, inflatable, recreational kayak that is well suited for people who need a portable kayak, and who want a kayak that is stable, comfortable, and versatile. The Rival is a great recreational kayak for people who just want to get out on the water. The wide-open deck makes it a great choice for those interested in bringing their dog or children along for the ride.
The Rival is also a solid fishing platform thanks to its incredible stability. The elevated seat is nice and so are the options it provides for customization. You’ll be hard pressed to find an inflatable kayak that offers better bang-for-the-buck value.I hope you’ve enjoyed this review of the Star Rival Inflatable Kayak.
Like the STAR Rival kayak review? Buy the Star Rival Inflatable Kayak
Check availability of the Star Rival Inflatable Kayak at Backcountry.com
Here’s a list of the other gear I was using while testing the Rival.
Footwear: NRS Vibe Water Shoes: https://bit.ly/2U2qoQ4
Shorts: NRS Benny Board Short: https://bit.ly/2VIbK0L
Shirt: NRS Guide Short Sleeve Shirt: https://bit.ly/3ibhRlE
First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Watertight Kit .9 – https://bit.ly/3DIZdePDry Bags: NRS Ether Lock 10L Drybag – https://www.nrs.com/product/55034.01/nrs-ether-hydrolock-dry-sack
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