Economical and easy to set up, Intex Challenger inflatable kayaks are good play boats for casual afternoons at the beach or on camping trips.
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Specs
| Material Guage | 30 |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | 220 lb |
| Weight | 23.9 lb |
| Inflated Size | 9′ X 2’6″ X 1’1″ |
A Look at the Kayak
The Intex Challenger K1 (solo) and Challenger K2 (tandem model) come with an inflatable seat and backrest, an I-beam floor, a pair of hard plastic skegs on the underside of the kayak for better directional control, and grab lines on both ends. Included in the price is a high-output pump and 84″ aluminum oars.
Specifications:
- Dimension of Intex Challenger K1 – 108″ x 30″ x 15″
- Dimensions of Intex Challenger K2 – 138″ x 30″ x 15″
- Capacity: 175 lbs (K1), 253 lbs (K2)
- Boston valves
- Inflatable seat w/back support
- 2 Hard plastic skegs
- Inflation time: about 10 minutes
How it Rates with Consumers
One key feature for Intex Challenger inflatable kayaks is the Super-Tough™ Construction. The 30-gauge material on the hull is resistant to damage from UV rays, abrasion, and impact, as well as chemical spills from gas and oil. The Challenger is equipped with two-way Boston valves, which makes the kayak easier to inflate and deflate.
Overall, reviewers are satisfied with the Challenger kayak and say that it is far more rugged than a pool toy boat. Many reviews remark that even with the two directional skegs on the bottom, the kayak doesn’t track well and that it is somewhat tippy – buy hey, it’s an $85 kayak so it does what it’s designed to do: provide you with hours of fun.
The Best You Can Do?
These Intex inflatable kayaks are a bargain, even though there are better entry-level models for paddling. However, entry-level models don’t come with extras such as an oar, air pump, and skegs, and the Challenger does, so that affects the total price you’ll pay. Intex Challenger inflatable kayaks are recommended as fun splash around boats for adults and kids to use in shallow water, but it is definitely not a whitewater or backpackers kayak; don’t put it into any type of situation where your life depends on a quality craft.
