Oru Coast Series Bay 12’ Kayak

Field Notes: Like most first-time users, the engineering attached to the project is as mind-bending as the corrugated plastic score and folded to make a noteworthy kayak. In this case, a cruising model that’s not much bigger than an over-achieving bicycle messenger’s bag. Assembling the boat the first time takes up to 60 minutes as testers were afraid to exert full strength on bending, attaching and cinching. That’s because many of the twisting motions – and the kayak’s corrugated plastic material – are uncommon and require an unusual ability to trust Oru’s design engineers. Overcoming trepidation is key to letting the boat take shape, with anticipated rebuild time at under 20 minutes in controlled conditions – where level, firm ground is advised. On water, the boat’s stability is shocking (in a positive way, that is) with a shape that doesn’t blow like a leaf in the wind when faced with crosswinds. Tracking is superior even without a skeg while even quick maneuvers demonstrate the boat’s agility. Seat and foot “pedal” adjustments exceeded expectations as did knee, leg and foot comfort that maintained enough airflow to avoid making Oru a hothouse. As the company’s influences are many, including Greenland kayaks and Japanese origami, it’s no surprise this model is one of a growing collection of reliable vessels with a blossoming following among the design-conscious, space-restricted and performance-focused.

Pros: Compact folded size, integrity in construction, reasonable paddling efficiency from reliable strap and cord assemblies

Cons: Optional flotation bags essential, assembly takes agility and hand strength

Tester Comments: “Efficiency-wise, I felt good about all-day paddling in moderate weather conditions. The sound of the kayak moving through the water is startling at first, as the the neoprene nose and tail seals seam to induce a vibration through the plastics that’s like high-pitched yoga breathing – and creates some additional water turbulence as a result. Key here is to take care of the boat, avoiding dragging and dropping it without feeling as if you need to baby it.”

Key Attribute: Maneuverability

Best For: Flatwater day touring and nature watching