Itiwit DS 1–2P Cruising

Summary

Price At Time Of Writing | £319.99

Our Overall Rating | 76 out of 100

Pros - Stable and built well

Cons - Small, uncomfortable seats, poor tracking

Overall - A good kayak for occasional use

Technical Specifications

Open Size - 340x103cm

Weight - 14kg

Load Capacity - 150kg

Packed Size - 67x44x27cm

Our Analysis & Ratings

The Itiwit DS 1–2 Cruising Kayak is a durable kayak for occasional use for recreation on calm water. It's a cheap option for those wanting to have some fun or learn how to kayak with their family and friends, and it's easy to inflate and pack. It's not for long journeys, though, as it's quite short and can be cramped with two adults. It's also not the easiest to paddle.

Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 5/10

Speed: It's hard to build up speed and there's barely any glide when not paddling, so as soon as you stop, so does the kayak.

Tracking: On the plus side, the three skegs help keep you in a straight line.

Stability: While stable to enter and when still, the kayak can be wobbly when moving, especially in choppy water.

Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 7/10

The Itiwit 1 to 2-person kayak is covered in a durable fabric that fits well over the tubes, but is slow to dry and is often used as a backup when the kayak tubes themselves are comprised of less durable PVC.

A step-up from its predecessor, though, it does come with a drop-stitch floor, which is a major improvement. Its width in itself isn't a huge issue, but the bulky side tubes are difficult to reach over when paddling.

Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding and drying): 5/10

The Itiwit DS is easy to inflate, with the three valves located close together at the stern. It's also easy to get back into the backpack, as it zips all the way around, so you're not trying to pack it in a small opening.

Keep in mind that the fabric outer means it can take a couple of days to dry before you can pack it away, which is a major con in our opinion, but is the same for all fabri-covered kayaks.

Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 6/10

The kayak comes in an easy-to-carry backpack and is light, although, since it doesn't come with a paddle or pump, these need to be strapped to the outside of the backpack, as it's not big enough to fit them. The shoulder straps on the backpack are thin, so carrying it long distances can quickly become uncomfortable.

There are built-in handles on the sides of the kayak, making it easy to carry once inflated.

Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 3/10

Unfortunately, the Itiwit comes with thick, cushioned seats which aren't comfortable and make paddling uncomfortable. The backrest is also low, providing little support.

There are no footrests, meaning there's more muscle work when paddling. It's also very short for two people.

Value for money:

The Itiwit DS 1–2P is a budget-friendly, lightweight option for those wanting an occasional, casual paddle with family or friends, though the tracking and comfort compromises are worth weighing at any price.

Best for:

• Occasional, casual recreation on calm water

• Learning to kayak with family or friends

• Budget-conscious buyers wanting a light, easy-to-carry kayak

• Short outings rather than long journeys

Overall:

The Itiwit DS 1–2P Cruising kayak is not the most well-thought-out tandem, but its advantages are its light weight and lower price.