Intex Explorer K2 Review
Bottom Line:
When it comes to inflatable kayaks, having a durable, lightweight boat that packs down easily is a must. The Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak ticks these boxes, and all testers we reviewed agree that it’s a reasonably priced leisure craft that will handle calm waters well. However, this isn’t one of the best inflatable kayaks for rougher conditions.
The Intex K2 can accommodate two paddlers, but can also be used as a solo boat, and it arrives with enough accessories to get you started! However, it doesn’t score as highly as some of our other inflatable kayak reviews; its thin material and relatively poor tracking don’t rate highly with experienced paddlers compared with other inflatable kayaks in the same category.
However, as far as Intex inflatable kayaks go, the K2 is one of the brands best-selling models. This is one of the lightest tandem inflatable kayaks on the market, with its portability being a notable selling point, as well as its low cost. While it isn’t the most durable boat when compared to other inflatable kayaks, this isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker.
Price Comparison:
Specs:
Brand | Intex |
Size (length x width) | 10'3" x 3' |
Weight | 36 lbs |
Capacity | 400 lbs |
Material | 30 gauge vinyl / 1200 denier |
Warranty | 90 days |
Comparison to Similar Kayaks:
Intex Explorer K2 | Advanced Elements Expedition Elite | Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 | Sea Eagle RazorLite 393rl | Sea Eagle 380x Explorer | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Expert Rating | 6.2 | 8.3 | 8.1 | 7.9 | 7.9 |
Size | 10'3" x 3' | 13' x 32" | 11'2" x 37" | 12'10" x 28" | 12'6" x 39" |
Weight | 36 lbs | 42 lbs | 31.5 lbs | 35 lbs | 40 lbs |
Handling | |||||
Stability | |||||
Comfort | |||||
Onboard Storage | |||||
Portability | |||||
Durability |
Intex Explorer K2 Review
- Reasonably comfortable for solo travelers
- Extremely easy to pack down - nice and light for easy transportation
- Removable skeg helps boost tracking
- Great stability for an inflatable of its size
- Impressive weight capacity
- Very thin construction, will struggle if punctured
- Doesn't track well thanks to hull shape
- Draining is awkward to manage on the go
Performance of the Intex Explorer K2
The Intex Explorer K2 is a tandem inflatable kayak. While acceptable for very leisurely paddling in calm waters, experts agree that, despite its marketing, the Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak is made from very thin material with no extra layers to support it. Experienced paddlers claim that it won’t last well if handled roughly, although it may stand up to gentle knocks here and there.
Reviewers, however, are full of praise for the kayak’s ease of packing and portability. It packs down in just a few minutes using the included manual pump, and stows away easily in the storage bag. This seems to be the best reason to invest in the Intex Explorer K2 outside of its comparatively low price.
However, some reviewers say that it’s difficult to get up to the correct air pressure, claiming that the K2 is far from rigid at full volume, and it’s too easy to over-inflate.
The five air chambers are an impressive feature, though, despite it having three valves. Reviewers also note that the removable skeg adds quite a bit of tracking support, though handling isn’t the boat’s immediate strong point, thanks to its shape.
The inflatable kayak scores well on stability, with most experts claiming tipping isn’t likely to be a concern.
There’s not much discussion regarding onboard storage despite the fact that – variously – experts find the boat a little cramped. It’s not the sort of boat you’ll be loading up with fishing gear, but there’s enough room to provide a comfortable paddling experience for casual or shorter trips, and the adjustable seats do help.
The Intex Explorer K2 does get high praise for its “complete” kit, while receiving the “beginners only” accolade from most experts. It includes everything you need to get started, making this a reasonable first inflatable for beginners who want a boat that can carry two paddlers on easy, recreational trips.
Finally, reviewers praise the look of the boat for its high visibility – it’s bright yellow color makes it hard to miss!
Accessories Included with The Intex Explorer K2:
- Two aluminum paddles
- High output air pump
- Two inflatable seats
- Repair kit
- Storage bag