Some of us on the AIRE sales team just got back from the Jersey Paddler Show in Somerset, NJ. There were hundreds of boats on hand, I got to thinking about how designs are different and the same between manufacturers. These pics aren't really a best of show, but they show some interesting concepts about boat design.
the Epic V10
I was impressed by this boat because of its purpose driven nature. This isn't a fun splashy beginner machine you put your "I think I wanna try paddling" friends in. This boat does one thing: go fast. The whole boat is narrower than 1 Wildcat tube. It is half again longer than a Super Duper Puma. You have to tie a yellow flag off the back of this boat even if it is on your roof rack. Not that you would, a hatch back Subaru doesn't even have a long enough roof line to carry this thing. Sounds like a pain, right? That is what is so impressive about it; the goal trumps all other considerations of convenience and versatility. This boat reminds me of a Trek Madone Pro or a pair of Volkl Kuros. Gear for those with a purpose.
hard shell, inflatable soul
Hmm, these are hard plastic sit on tops. What does that hull shape look like? Does anyone see a nose profile similar to a Sawtooth? Many people were concerned with the performance of the inflatables, like it is going to paddle like an inflatable palm tree. V shaped hull, wide stable edges, 13 feet long. Sounds like a Sawtooth, but will this thing roll up and fit in your trunk?
Food for thought,
Eric
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