Aquaglide Chinook 120 Review
Bottom Line:
The Aquaglide Chinook 120 scores big points from reviewers as a stable, comfortable leisure boat that tracks impressively for an inflatable kayak. It’s got reasonable storage and space onboard, and offers confident support and durability.
It loses marks, however, when it comes to its lack of accessories and its awkward bag. It can also be slightly uncomfortable riding solo as opposed to tandem paddling. But as a picnicking boat for two, it’s a great mid-range choice.
Price Comparison:
Specs:
Brand | Aquaglide |
Size (length x width) | 12' x 37" |
Weight | 28 lbs |
Capacity | 550 lbs |
Material | PVC and 600 denier polyester |
Warranty | One year |
Comparison to Similar Kayaks:
Aquaglide Chinook 120 | Advanced Elements Expedition Elite | Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 | Sea Eagle RazorLite 393rl | Sea Eagle 380x Explorer | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Expert Rating | 7.2 | 8.3 | 8.1 | 7.9 | 7.9 |
Size | 12' x 37" | 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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Durability |
Aquaglide Chinook 120 Review
- Tracks reasonably well
- Made from tough, durable materials
- Lots of room for two people
- Seats are highly versatile
- Pretty stable on calm waters
- Doesn't fare well in high winds
- Not really built for solo paddlers
- Storage bag could be better made
Performance of the Aquaglide Chinook 120
The Aquaglide Chinook is a 2-person inflatable kayak. Experts agree that the Aquaglide Chinook is a great example of a mid-range inflatable kayak. It surpasses most expectations when it comes to stability and tracking, but doesn’t quite reach the speeds of many of its rivals.
Reviewers, however, do also agree that this is an extremely comfortable boat. Its seats and footrest setup make it highly supportive, and ideal for a slow ride on still lakes and rivers. Besides, it features four PVC rod holder sleeves in case you want to try your hand at kayak fishing. That said, some experts feel it could withstand Class II waters.
Where the boat falls down, according to reviews, is the fact that the chamber setup could cause an awkward paddle to shore should the boat spring a leak. On top of this, it only comes with a bag and repair kit. There aren’t any pumps or paddles supplied, which would have been welcomed as part of the price.
The storage bag seems to appeal to some users, but not to others. It’s agreed that there’s not that much room in the pack provided – and some experts feel the duffel cord is far from useful.
Despite all of this, the consensus appears to be that the Chinook inflatable kayak is a durable, sturdy boat that won’t take you anywhere fast, but it’ll keep you floating peacefully on calmer currents.