Oru Bay ST Kayak

Summary

Price At Time Of Writing | £1999.00

Our Overall Rating | 79 out of 100

Pros - Portable, lightweight, folds small, performs well on calm water

Cons - Pricey, wind-affected, limited durability, seat not very comfortable

Overall - A clever folding kayak best for flatwater paddlers with limited storage space

Technical Specifications

Open Size - 373x64cm

Weight - 11.5kg

Load Capacity - 136kg

Packed Size - 84x36x74cm

Our Analysis & Ratings

The Oru Bay ST is a folding kayak designed to combine portability with the feel of a traditional hard-shell. Unlike inflatables, it folds down like origami into a compact box that fits in most car boots or cupboards, making it especially appealing for those living in the city or anyone without storage space. At just 11.5kg, it's easy to carry, set up and get onto the water. While marketed as suitable for class I and II rapids, we personally feel most comfortable using it on calm lakes, bays and slow-moving rivers.

Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 7/10

Speed: It doesn't maintain speed as well as a hard-shell touring kayak. Lightness on this thing is both a blessing and a drawback, paddling feels easy and efficient.

Tracking: It tracks better than many short recreational kayaks, thanks to its long length.

Stability: The kayak is easily pushed around by wind or chop, requiring constant correction. It sometimes even has a slight lean or drift, often due to folds needing to "break in," although Oru provides guidance on correcting this. While Oru rates the Bay ST for class I and II rapids, we find it best suited for flatwater and gentle creeks, and not best for open water or rough conditions, where stability and control become more difficult.

Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 5/10

The kayak is made from corrugated polypropylene, a durable and surprisingly rigid material once locked into shape. The origami-style folds are clever, and with proper care, the hull holds up well.

That said, it's not indestructible. Dock cleats, rocky shorelines, or poor handling can cause punctures or wear over time. It may experience plastic buckles and straps breaking, and while Oru usually sends replacements, the build quality can feel inconsistent, which is a letdown for its higher price. Still, the design itself is impressive, and when properly assembled, it feels solid and reliable on the water.

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

Oru claims assembly can be done in about 10 to 15 minutes, and after a few tries, that's realistic. The first setup can be confusing, especially in cold weather when the material is stiffer, but the process becomes straightforward with practice.

Disassembly is faster, and the kayak folds down neatly into its box-like form. For us, the Oru Bay assembly is easier than strapping a traditional kayak to a roof rack, and it means you can go on spontaneous paddling trips, as all you need to do is unfold it at the lake and you're ready to go.

Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 8/10

At 11.5kg, almost anyone can carry the Oru Bay ST, and when folded, it fits into a car boot, back seat, or even a wardrobe. This makes it a great choice for anyone living in a smaller space or those with small cars.

Just keep in mind that carrying it in folded form for long distances can feel bulky and awkward, especially without wheels. You could carry it partially assembled or sling it over a shoulder for better weight distribution to make it easier for you. For travel and storage, though, it's hard to beat.

Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 4/10

The closed cockpit gives a more connected feel to the kayak compared to open sit-on-tops, which many paddlers appreciate. You feel "in" the boat, and bracing with your knees adds control.

That said, there are downsides. The seat padding is minimal, so you'll likely want to replace it with an aftermarket cushion or gel pads if you'll be in it for long periods. The footrests require adjustment every time, which can get frustrating. If you're taller, you may find legroom limited, while smaller paddlers may struggle with some assembly steps. With the right adjustments, though, it can be comfortable enough for day trips.

Value for money:

The price is high for what it is, and durability can be hit or miss. It's a remarkable piece of design, but the cost relative to what you get is a genuine consideration.

Best for:

• City dwellers and anyone without storage space or a roof rack

• Calm lakes, bays and slow-moving rivers

• Spontaneous paddling trips

• Paddlers who value a closed-cockpit, connected feel over an open sit-on-top

• Day trips rather than long, sustained paddling

Overall:

So, the Oru Bay ST is a remarkable piece of design and a solid option if portability and storage space are your main priorities. It's light, folds down small and gets you out on the water quickly without the hassle of roof racks or garage space. The price is high for what it is, though, and durability can be hit or miss, but for the right paddler, especially those living in small spaces, it gives you the freedom and spontaneity that traditional kayaks can't match. There are better options though.