Sandbanks Style Optimal Kayak
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | £499.00
Our Overall Rating | 80 out of 100
Pros - Stable, tracks straight, durable build, easy setup
Cons - Limited storage, firm seat, not very manoeuvrable
Overall - A solid, hard-shell-like inflatable best for recreational paddling
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 386x82cm
Weight - 16kg
Load Capacity - 159kg
Packed Size - 96x52x30cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
If you're after a kayak that tracks impressively straight, is extremely stable and still holds a good pace on the water, the Sandbanks Style Optimal one-seater might be for you. It feels close to a sit-on-top hard shell in performance, yet you still get the portability of an inflatable.
Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 5/10
Speed: It still holds a good pace on the water, feeling close to a sit-on-top hard shell in performance.
Tracking: Tracking is excellent, thanks to the V-shaped hull and large skeg, which helps it paddle straight with minimal effort.
Manoeuvrability: The trade-off is manoeuvrability. Sharp turns require more work, especially in wind or current.
Stability: This is easily one of the most stable kayaks we've ever paddled, to the point where standing feels possible without tipping.
Load Handling: There's limited underdeck space, and not much room for larger bags, so most storage needs to be strapped onto the deck with the supplied bungees.
For recreational paddling and coastal trips, the boat feels reassuringly safe and steady.
Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 7/10
The kayak uses full drop-stitch technology, giving it rigidity close to a hard-shell kayak. The two-panel clamshell design looks sleek and eliminates the bulky, boxy feel of some three-panel inflatables.
The PVC skin also feels durable and well finished, with clean heat-welded seams. There is some limited underdeck space, but not much room for larger bags, so if you're looking for a kayak you can take a bunch of gear with you, this one's not for you.
Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding and drying): 8/10
With the Bravo pump included, it took us under ten minutes to inflate to the recommended pressure. The pump feels effortless at first, although the final few strokes to full PSI require a bit more energy.
Everything fits back into the wheeled bag without much of a struggle, which is a relief compared to some inflatables. The only downside is the lack of a deflation port, which would make packing down even quicker.
Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 5/10
At around 16kg, the Sandbanks Style Optimal is not the lightest inflatable kayak, but it is still manageable. The wheeled rucksack makes a big difference when moving it to and from the car.
Carrying it on your back for long distances is less practical due to the weight, so adding a small kayak trolley can make solo trips easier. For a full drop-stitch kayak, the size and weight are about what you'd expect.
Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 5/10
The updated seat is a big improvement compared to older models of this kayak. It offers more back support and feels sturdier thanks to stronger fittings.
Over longer paddles, though, the thin seat base can still feel firm, and the lack of built-in footrests means your posture can slip without an extra bracing point, so we'd recommend adding your own cushion or footrest setup. Space inside the cockpit is generous, so you never feel cramped, but storage is definitely limited for multi-day trips.
Value for money:
The Sandbanks Style Optimal offers good value for the price, especially when compared to similar drop-stitch models on the market, given the stability and tracking it delivers.
Best for:
Paddlers who want the feel of a sit-on-top hard shell with inflatable portability
Recreational paddling and coastal trips
Those who value stability over sharp, tight manoeuvring
Day trips rather than multi-day expeditions with lots of gear
Overall:
For paddlers who want the feel of a sit-on-top hard shell with the convenience of an inflatable, the Sandbanks Style Optimal is an excellent kayak with good value for the price, especially when compared to similar drop-stitch models on the market.
