Intex Explorer K2
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | £199.99
Our Overall Rating | 68 out of 100
Pros - Fast inflation, stable, easy to paddle
Cons - High sides, limited storage, tracks poorly
Overall - A cheap kayak for relaxing short trips
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 312x91cm
Weight - 14kg
Load Capacity - 180kg
Packed Size - 59x34x41cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Intex Explorer K2 is an all-inclusive kayak for easy fun on calm waters. It's a good option for those wanting a cheap inflatable for recreational use, especially as everything is included, but it doesn't have the performance seen in other kayaks, and it has that ‘pool toy’ feel to it, which isn't suitable for certain waters or kayakers.
Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 3/10
Tracking: The Explorer K2 doesn't track well, even with the removable skeg, as the bottom of the boat is quite flat.
Manoeuvrability: One annoyance? It can be challenging not to smack paddles with the other passenger due to the wide sides and how short it is.
Load Handling: The boat sinks a lot when two adults are paddling. There's a drainage point in the cockpit, but it requires two hands to open, so it's fairly useless when paddling. Expect a bit of a wet bottom.
Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 4/10
Like Intex pool toys, the Explorer K2 is made of a spongy, thin polypropylene material and comes with paddles, a hand pump and repair patches. Due to the material, the kayak may tear or puncture going over sticks and rocks, and if you've ever used Intex pool toys, you'll know of the quality.
Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding, and drying): 5/10
The included hand pump is quite small, so the boat can take time to inflate, especially with the three different valve types. The valve in the floor can be challenging to reach, as the sides inflate over the top. The fin is also difficult to get in place.
Deflating can also be an issue, as you have to roll while you deflate. The storage bag is oversized, though, allowing everything to fit in easily.
Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 4/10
The Intex Explorer K2 comes in a thin transport bag that doesn't feel very durable, but it's sufficient enough to move to the launch site. The kayak is also quite light.
Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 2/10
The cockpit of the Explorer K2 tandem kayak is fairly small and can feel squishy, but it is decently comfortable to sit in, as it conforms to your shape and has adjustable backrests.
Quite a bit of water comes in when paddling, especially since it sinks a lot, even with lighter paddlers, and it's harder to get out of than in.
Value for money:
The Explorer K2 is a cheap leisure kayak that offers a decent, all-inclusive package for its low price, even if the tracking, construction and comfort don't hold up as well as pricier options.
Best for:
Casual, simple enjoyment on calm waters
Budget-conscious buyers wanting an all-inclusive kit
Lightweight solo paddlers rather than two adults together
Short, low-key outings rather than serious or long-distance paddling
Overall:
This Intex inflatable kayak is a cheap, recreational kayak, but paddles poorly and lacks overall performance.
