Submitted: 03-26-2011 by nausetpaddler
We have owned two Envy kayaks since 2005. They replaced larger ones, for ease of cartopping and handling in shallow areas. The boats carry surprising loads with aplomb (folding chairs, beach umbrella...) and track like trains considering their length. After several years of bottoming in seaside marshes and careful beaching, the hulls show very few scratches. I have added fiberglass reinforcements at stern and bow rub areas. One of the boats fell off the roof of my car and suffered no damage at all (luck helped, but the fiberglass quality at Evergreen is top notch). We have also been out on big water: large ocean bays, Lake Erie, St. Lawrence and big rivers. Although we avoid such environments, the boats have brought us home safely, if relieved, when we were caught out in meter-high seas.
Downside: the excellent seats tend to come unglued from the bottom and out strain on the mounts. I used four fiberglass tabs on the seat bases to keep them flat and solid without straining the hull. The carry handles can be protected with rubber washers and an extra layer of webbing, and have lasted, including being used for safety lines when cartopping. Owners might also want to check and maintain the seal around the bow hatch, which may allow a few drops in.
We love our boats!
The Envy is fast and stable for its dimensions, looks good on the beach, and feels safe for paddlers with reasonable experience. And they attract a lot of attention at the beach and at the ramps! |