Thank you! Looking forward to take it mine out today. I was not aware of pads for the oar, got gloves for my grip, but can see I'll be looking for pads in my future. List anything else your wife finds convenient. Nice to have another perspective. Cheers.
Just bought at $299 at local Costco. It’s my first hard-body kayak- we have an inflatable that we took out a few times last year, and decided to upgrade on a budget. Question: I notice you didn’t mention the foam inserts that are slotted into the side of the seat area. I accidentally removed them, believing them to be packaging components intended to keep the plastic from becoming deformed during shipping. However, their website states that they are used instead as extra flotation, supposedly to prevent sinking in the event that the kayak’s cockpit takes on excessive water/boat capsizes. I quickly replaced the foam inserts that I had thrown away minutes before, but they were a bit torn up from trying to remove them - now they are not quite as “in there”, though still snug. Minor research states that they are important for safety reasons, and should not be removed. 1) Should I replace the slightly scuffed-up foam, or should I leave it as is? 2) If I don’t replace it, will a “snug” fit be enough to keep it in place? If (for some reason) it migrates towards the back of the kayak, will that harm the stability of the kayak? (i.e. too much flotation at the back) 3) If I do replace the foam, should I purchase an identical replacement off the Pelican website? Or is a third-party option better? Recommendations? 4) Some forums say that the foam gets a bit moldy after a while. Is that an indication to replace them? Is foam replacement a common practice? For context: size: 5’9” male, 170lbs intended location(s): lakes, (maybe)bays water choppiness: low-moderate Thanks! EDIT: Also should mention that this kayak is strictly recreational use, to be used seasonally (May thru September), used twice a month, no modifications, no fishing, and I am not planning to upgrade again anytime soon, nor is a main hobby of mine-therefore, no need to consider any “hardcore” sport behavior (e.g. kayak rolling tricks, mods, etc.) I am only getting out onto the calmer water and paddling around for a feeling of relaxed bliss, and intending to be a safe as possible while doing so. Im a great swimmer, wear a life jacket, and stay within 1/8 mile of land at all times.
I would suggest you try to exchange the kayak at Costco for another, or purchase replacement foam from Pelican directly. Best option is to exchange it though at this point.
