10 Reasons NOT to Buy an Oru Kayak 😬

Hi, I’m Steph! A DIYer, author, and podcast host. I live in Tallahassee, FL with my adopted greyhound, Tosh. I 🧡 Kayaking.

Please note- I use affiliate links which means if you purchase products through links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

🚣‍♀️ Kayak Gear (affiliate links)

🛟 Oru Kayak Safety Gear (affiliate links)
▶︎ Cup with handle / Pitcher

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I make DIY videos @MotherDaughterProjectsDIY

*I do not work with the Oru Kayak company and bought this kayak myself.

[sarahoconnell]

Great list. Since I'm at the non-beginning end of my kayaking life, (69 yo), the light weight and the portability and the flat water use all work great for me, especially since I now only kayak a few times a year. So I was super excited to get my Inlet. I love watching your adventures with the other Stephanie on the Florida rivers - our window of opportunity up north is much shorter - but NO gators.

[DonMaruji-rr]

Thank you very much. We have 4 fiberglass kayaks but since we are getting older I thought the lighter kayaks would be nice, but having to be so much more careful where you launch and care for them has really been helpful.

[donwp]

I appreciate how you get right to the point(s). Thanks for your video.

[meandmyoru]

Funny how this video is getting more views about NOT to buy an Oru Kayak than your other video about the good points 😆 Everyone is searching for bad points... but I LOVE my Oru Inlet Kayak!! Best thing I've ever bought!! I've found a whole new activity since getting my kayak and I'd never give that up! 😀

[ianjmccullough]

I've had my Beach LT for a year and love it. No issues so far and I use it every weekend.

[danielbouchard]

My wife and I own a tandem Haven TT which I’ve often used solo as well here in the Toronto area. My guesstimate is it has been used about 25-30 times, with outings lasting several hours and kms. It has survived some rough water conditions, not on purpose of course, but indeed this model is really made for calm waters ideally…a little bit choppy is fine but no more. It does have scratches…but look if you’re going to use it a lot, it’s inevitable. So far, so good, no leaks, no punctures. I bought spare parts from the manufacturer, like screws and bolts and an ORU patch kit, just in case. For us, because of tight quarters and limited storage space, being able to fold it into a large suitcase type is a huge advantage, otherwise we wouldn’t be able to own a kayak, period. Other advantage is its mobility factor, it fits easily inside a SUV, so no struggling trying to lift a full-size kayak onto a car’s roof. I recommend buying floating bags for added safety. Also, I’m a tall guy at 6’5´´ and I have lots of room for my long legs and it’s also quite wide. It takes us 15´ to assemble it and we’re quite used to it now. The lady in the video is quite right, it’s an asset to be sociable as often people are quite intrigued and come to ask questions. Being able to wash off the dirt at the end of the day is essential. We quickly pack everything at the end of the trip and the washing is done using a hose, and dried overnight. So yes, it can be labor intensive to prepare the kayak and then clean and pack, but it’s always well worth it. Love our Haven TT!

[bookmanswaked]

Thank you, Steph - this is a well stated piece and your wrap-up is very credible - even with all the "not-to" reasons, you still have a reason to like this product!

[germanjake]

Hm i wonder if Oru can create a halfway disposable cover for the bottom part to increase the overall durability and avoid scratches/damage on concrete launches.

Yes this will ad some weight and buildup time but the benefit might be good in the longlivety of the kayak.
Maybe they should look info that.

[EnduroDreaming]

I have the Oru Lake and the Tucktec foldable kayak. The Tucktec is way more comfortable, it tracks better because it comes with a skeg and it’s cheaper. It also feels more durable.

[AussieBushKayakersCamping]

such a great list . all the things you said are not game changers for most people who are thinking about getting one of these kayaks except for, wow yes they will wear out in the folds after some use and wear and tear . perfect for people with transportation and storage issues . Happy paddling everyone

[johnkim]

That was a very comprehesive and honest review. Thank you so much.

[gradyrm]

You might be the world's first introvert with a Youtube channel! 😂

[evolv.e]

I bought four Oru Kayak Lakes (one for each family member) and putting them in the water this summer ☀️ Can’t wait!

[earthlightsmusic]

My Lake will never equal those Wilderness and Old Towne rentals for fighting current and breeze but on clement days with the rental office closed, I can go a couple miles in trusted waters. I met a Lake paddler/fisherman who had fixed a leak with Flex Tape, so longevity is relative.

[ThePorpoisepower]

I love the warning not to expose to sunlight.

[PokemonTrainerRachel]

Great video! Really highlighted the issues well. I always have to remind myself that for a clean launch, I'll have to get my feet wet and not drag the kayak across rocks.

Can I ask what kind of paddle that is?

[iqfoot]

They should make a liner that covers the bottle of the kayak. The plastic would provide the structure and the liner would add protection and sealant

[stephm]

I am not a recreational kayak enthusiast. I am strictly interested In owning one of these models to use for waterfowl rescue. That being the case, the cheapest option is tempting. But I’m also wondering if the slightly shorter “Lake” model might provide increased maneuverability. I’m guessing a shorter length might make turning on a dime easier than a longer-bodied kayak. Please provide feedback if you have any insight to offer on this subject! —Thanks!

[donnazukowski]

At 65, I have been looking at inflatables for flat water. I heard both the folding kayaks are on the hand to clamp.

[inpainbuthappy]

where were you kayaking at at 4:09? :o it's so beautiful