Oru Kayak has pushed the boundaries of its origami-inspired design to create its most affordable and universally approachable boat yet, the Lake. Composed of only two loose parts, the Lake can be assembled in less than two minutes. It weighs just 18 pounds, making it the lightest non-inflatable kayak on the market.
The Lake’s fewer moving parts translates a more efficient assembly experience. The 9-foot by 32-inch-wide Lake has only two loose components. A single sheet of double layered polypropylene forms the hull, deck and box. The other is a custom folded floorboard with a built-in 18mm memory foam seat.
New Oru Kayak Design
Other Oru models rely on users to install bulkheads to provide rigidity. The Lake employs an innovative, new folded floorboard to create the same structural integrity. With bulkheads, footrests, trim and individual seat components removed, the Lake weighs 18 pounds. That is 10 percent less than the next lightest Oru kayak. This makes it the most lightweight non-inflatable kayak in the world. Regardless of strength or age, the Lake allows more people to transport, carry, and store a fully functional kayak on their own.
“The defining principle of this boat is simplicity both in terms of customer accessibility and design ethos,” said Anton Willis, founder and chief design officer of Oru. “Eliminating things is difficult, especially when we’re committed to the same standards of durability and user experience as our performance models. However, we make origami kayaks, and this boat is the essence of that. It’s the most purely ‘origami’ thing we’ve ever made.”
Folding kakays have gained more interest in the last 10 years. Users like their relatively light weight and portability. Being able to pack in or carry a kakak for a float is easier than portaging a larger canoe and gear. Innovations in technology, design and materials also have led to greater improvements. Portable watercraft definitely are a consideration for fun outings and fishing trips.
Source: www.outdoorsportswire.com
