Star Rival vs Aquaglide Chelan 120

When you're looking for a new kayak, there are so many options to choose from. But how do you choose the right one?

In this article, we will compare two popular kayaks: the Star Rival and the Aquaglide Chelan 120. We will look at their features, pros and cons, and suitability for different types of kayaking.

Star Rival

7.5

EXPERT RATING

based on 3 reviews

Aquaglide Chelan 120

7.7

EXPERT RATING

based on 3 reviews

Performance Ratings

Star Rival Performance Ratings

  • Handling
  • Stability
  • Comfort
  • Onboard Storage
  • Portability
  • Durability

Aquaglide Chelan 120 Performance Ratings

  • Handling
  • Stability
  • Comfort
  • Onboard Storage
  • Portability
  • Durability

About the Star Rival

After testing the Star Rival inflatable kayak, we believe it's a fantastic choice for solo paddlers. On the water, we found the handling to be smooth and responsive, making it enjoyable to maneuver. This kayak's stability truly impressed us, as it easily maintained balance even in choppy water conditions. We also admired the comfort of the adjustable AirFrame PRO seat, ensuring a pleasant ride.

The onboard storage exceeded our expectations, with multiple compartments and bungee rigging allowing us to store all our gear efficiently. The Star Rival is not only portable but also quite durable, thanks to its heavy-duty PVC material. Additionally, the kayak's structure adds to its longevity, due to the drop-stitch construction. All things considered, we highly recommend the Star Rival as a reliable and versatile option for solo paddlers.

Read our full review of the Star Rival kayak

Specs:

BrandStar
Size (length x width)12'6" x 38"
Weight31 lbs
Capacity300 lbs
Material1000 Denier PVC
WarrantyThree years

About the Aquaglide Chelan 120

We recently had the pleasure of testing the Aquaglide Chelan 120, and we were genuinely impressed with its performance and features. It handled exceptionally well on the water, proving to be highly maneuverable even in windy conditions. We felt extremely stable in the kayak, thanks to its rigid floor and its wide and robust design.

The comfort level of the Aquaglide Chelan 120 was outstanding; the adjustable ProFormance seat allowed us to paddle for extended periods without any discomfort. We appreciated the ample onboard storage, making it convenient for day trips or even overnighter kayaking adventures. Despite the kayak's size and durability, we found it to be surprisingly lightweight and portable – easily deflatable and fitting into the provided backpack for easy transportation.

Overall, we highly recommend the Aquaglide Chelan 120 as an excellent one-person inflatable kayak for those who prioritize performance, comfort, and convenience.

Read our full review of the Aquaglide Chelan 120 kayak

Specs:

BrandAquaglide
Size (length x width)11'3" x 32.5"
Weight28 lbs
Capacity300 lbs
MaterialPVC / Duratex / Dropstitch

Which Kayak Should You Choose?

In our experience, both the Star Rival and the Aquaglide Chelan 120 are excellent choices for solo paddlers, each offering unique advantages.

If you're a solo paddler who values stability, durability, and storage space, we recommend the Star Rival. Its smooth handling, impressive stability, and comfortable seating make it a joy to use. The ample onboard storage and heavy-duty PVC material add to its appeal, making it a reliable and versatile option.

On the other hand, if performance, comfort, and convenience are your top priorities, the Aquaglide Chelan 120 is a fantastic choice. It handles well in various conditions and offers outstanding comfort, thanks to its adjustable ProFormance seat. Despite its size and durability, it's surprisingly lightweight and portable, making it perfect for day trips or overnight adventures.

In conclusion, your choice between the Star Rival and the Aquaglide Chelan 120 should be guided by your specific needs and preferences as a paddler. Both kayaks are top-tier options that we highly recommend.

Leave a Comment