Pakboats XT 17 folding kayak / boat
Pakboats XT - a new class of Touring Kayak.
XT kayaks are very fast, and over-all paddling performance is exceptional. A new stiff frame structure lets us build longer efficient hulls with consistent rocker, and a multi-chine cross section further enhances performance. The moderate depth of the hulls minimizes wind effects and gets the gunwales out of the way of your hands for comfortable paddling.
The 15-ft solo and 16 ft double may seem short for this class of kayak, but with their steep stems, the XTs have waterline lengths of kayaks that are at least a foot longer!
After years of experience with removable decks, we know the system works, and we have used it in the XTs. Because the deck support is built into the deck itself, the hull is completely open - making the XTs incredibly easy to load. The Velcro seal around the deck eases assembly greatly - and the water stays out of the boat! The new Pakboats cockpit is longer to make it easier to get in and out of the kayak, and it has built-in corners that grab the spray skirt so it is easy to get on.
The picture shows an XT-15 with the deck folded away so that the hull is open, and you see the under side of the deck with optional thigh straps installed.
All other folding kayaks have internal thwarts to enhance rigidity. But thwarts break up the space inside the hull, and we found a better way. As the deck is installed, the hull is compressed slightly, so the deck is under side to-side-tension. In effect, the deck fills the thwarts' function. This also adds tension to the deck so it seals tightly over the gunwales.
XTs come with far more flotation built in than most other kayaks, and unlike almost all other kayaks, XTs have the flotation placed along the sides where it does most good. Typical flotation placement in kayaks is in the ends, which is helpful because it helps prevent the end from submerging. But flotation in the ends is by definition very close to the hull's center lin, and this does nothing for the hull's stability. Flotation placed evenly along the whole length on each side places enough lift in the ends, and it keeps the hull floating level and stable once it has taken on a few inches of water. This is very helpful in a self rescue situation. Are you worried about the reliability of inflatable flotation? The XTs have 3 separate inflatable air bladders on each side for a total of 6. You can puncture a couple and still have more flotation left than most other kayaks.
XT-17 Solo has the capacity to handle gear for extended trips and can accommodate large paddlers. Its paddling performance makes long days easy. The solid stability lets you relax and be comfortable in the XT-17. D-rings on each side simplifies installation of deck rigging.
- Length: 17 ft (520 cm)
- Beam 24 in (60 cm)
- Depth 10 in (25 cm)
- Capacity: 330 lbs, 150 kg
- Weight: 44 lbs, 20 kg
- Packed Bag Size: 33 in x 21 in x 14 in
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