Aquaglide Chelan 120 Review
Bottom Line:
As far as recreational kayaks go, experts agree that the Aquaglide Chelan 120 performs impressively well. It’s easy to move and keep on the straight compared to its contemporaries, with the type of handling that’s typical of touring kayaks- and all experts agree that it’s easy to glide in a straight line. It’s also one of the comfier models out there, with the inflatable seat cushion providing a nice touch.
Kayakers will likely find this boat fares well in some rough water conditions, though the general consensus is this; do so at your own risk! If you’re sticking to calm conditions, though, expect worry free effortless paddling (as long as you’re wearing your personal flotation device, of course).
The Chelan 120 is incredibly stable and arrives with high-quality fittings and features, and a sturdy and stiff construction thanks to the drop stitch floor.
Price Comparison:
Specs:
| Brand | Aquaglide |
| Size (length x width) | 11'3" x 32.5" |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
| Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Material | PVC / Duratex / Dropstitch |
Comparison to Similar Kayaks:
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| Aquaglide Chelan 120 | Advanced Elements Expedition Elite | Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 | Sea Eagle RazorLite 393rl | Sea Eagle 380x Explorer | |
| Expert Rating | 7.7 | 8.3 | 8.1 | 7.9 | 7.9 |
| Size | 11'3" x 32.5" | 13' x 32" | 11'2" x 37" | 12'10" x 28" | 12'6" x 39" |
| Weight | 28 lbs | 42 lbs | 31.5 lbs | 35 lbs | 40 lbs |
| Handling | |||||
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| Comfort | |||||
| Onboard Storage | |||||
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| Durability |
Aquaglide Chelan 120 Review
- Super-stable riding, no matter your skill level
- Top-quality build featuring reinforced PVC and drop stitch construction
- Very comfortable over long periods, with the splash guard to keep you dry and inflatable seat cushion for added comfort
- Easy to pack down again and carry
- Highly maneuverable; this kayak turns on a dime!
- Could benefit from more secure storage areas, though the webbing pockets are a nice touch
- The self-bailing scuppers aren't the best
Performance of the Aquaglide Chelan 120
The Aquaglide Chelan 120 is one of the best 1-person inflatable kayaks. Reviewers agree here that the Chelan 120 is an impressive boat that looks inflatable but almost mimics a touring kayak. It’s stable on most waters, though experts recommend you try and keep it on calmer trips. It’s not likely to keep you seated in high winds, for example.
The build quality of this boat receives generally high marks, though there’s some discussion over how well the self-bailing scuppers work in practice. There’s also a little disagreement over storage. The bungees on both the bow and stern may work for some riders, but the pockets aren’t the best around, at least according to some of the experts featured in this gear review.
The Chelan 120 scores highly on comfort, particularly as it reduces fatigue over long distances while still keeping you relatively high up on the water; the performance seat and included foot brace help immensely. Providing you’ve got an electric pump, too, most kayakers should find it easy enough to get this boat up and moving fairly swiftly.
It’s likely to take some damage well, according to reviewers, but again – caution is advised. At the very least, it seems to be one of the easiest boats to pack away and take with you (though you may want to invest in a decent storage bag for when it’s stored away).
Accessories Included With The Aquaglide Chelan 120 Inflatable Kayak
- Repair kit
- Tracking fin
- Foot brace
- Halkey Roberts valve adaptor
