Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Review

It includes a kayak, an aluminum oar, an Intex Quick High Output hand pump and a repair kit in case of leaks. Besides, it comes in two different eye-catching designs that let others spot from distance and ensures safety. This sit inside kayak and accessories, pump, paddle fit in a bag roughly the size of a large intex purespa suitcase. It is light weight and takes less than 10 minutes to get assembled with minimal effort to air up with 1 way valves. Weight capacity is limited at 220lbs but at around $80.00 USD I’ve found this to be a great start. The specifications say that the Challenger K1 has a 220-pound maximum capacity.

I ordered this seat which is from a different and more expensive inflatable kayak, but I haven’t tried it yet. It seems like it will fit, and it’s got two sets of adjustable straps with the hooks on them so I’m hoping I’ll be able to get it working halfway decent in there. To be fair, a good inflatable kayak will never outperform a high performance traditional kayak. They just can’t be made with that degree of precision. But the average recreational kayaker will hardly notice the difference between a good quality inflatable kayak and an average traditional kayak. You’ll also find that quick inflating or deflating is a breeze with a Boston valve on each side.

The supplied CARRYING BAG is actually not that great. It reminds me of the recycled tote people use as grocery bags. In fact, those recycled grocery totes are probably better quality. However, with that said, the bag is still big enough and decent enough. I wouldn’t waste any money to buy a replacement bag. We bought two Intex Challenger K1 Kayaks and took them out for a spin the very weekend we received it.

It appears to be fairly tough, I have had it for 6 months with no punctures despite finding submerged branches and rocks. The paddle has worked well despite my initial apprehension about its strength. The blade angles can be set for in line or at 90 deg. The weight is an advantage (under 28 lb.) takes about the same time to deflate and pack up.

Make sure to stick your towel in there to catch the water BEFORE you flip it. This sounds unnecessary, but believe me, if there’s water, you’ll want to get it all out or as much as you can. Have the inflated kayak at a slope the long way (doesn’t have to be a big slope at all) so the water inside the kayak rolls down the opposite end.

intex challenger k1

So paddling is hardly possible or very uncomfortable. Also the material and the driving characteristics speak more for a boat to have fun on the water during ideal conditions on small lakes than a real inflatable kayak. Our trip to Colorado serves as the perfect opportunity to test out the new kayaks. While there is some assembly required, and a few individual chambers to fill with the hand pump provided with the kayaks, it takes us about 15 minutes from unboxing to water.

I would recommend this kayak to beginners and intermediate who want a gentle paddle on sheltered water at a low price and easy storage. Not recommended for serious Kayakers, no comparison with a ridged intex purespa plastic kayak. The Intex Challenger™ K1 Kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling. The bright green color and sporty graphics make the kayak highly visible in the water.