Our verdict: This kayak does all the jobs we expected it to do, in a format that is light enough for one person to carry
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First impressions
The Ventura didn’t come with its own bag but was lighter and packed smaller than other inflatable kayaks of this type. Once stowed in a shoulder-type bag, I found it light enough to carry on my own but would suggest a backpack for longer walks. Unlike some, this kayak set included a collapsible paddle, which was adjustable for feather (angle) but didn’t offer many length options.
The seat seemed well constructed, and I liked the storage pocket on the seat back. I also liked the addition of a Velcro paddle band along the side of the boat to help with carrying. Overall, this seemed like a good quality design with some advantageous extras not included with other kayaks we tested.
Set up and inflation
The inflation order of the two tubes and floor was clearly marked on the kayak itself. The inflation recommendation was a relatively low 0.8 PSI. However, we found inflating the floor last as suggested was tricky with two fully inflated tubes. The pump and Boston valves worked well but the pump did not have a pressure gauge. Instead, there was a scale guide, to measure against the printed grading on the kayak itself. I suspect this gauge would get lost in time.
The seat was easy to attach with Velcro below and straps to the sides. The fins were superior to others we tried, as well as sliding easily into place, they had a safety catch to make sure they stayed with the boat. The inflatable footrest bag didn’t require the pump. The included net kit bag meant we didn’t have to take the pump back to the car. We didn’t use the safety line but felt it was a sensible additional extra for future paddles.
Is it comfortable to sit in?
Once inflated this kayak looks narrow but the seating space expands once you get in, and the closeness of the sides adds to the comfort. I found the paddling position good, and the addition of the inflatable footrest bag allowed me to adopt a more traditional kayaking position. I initially felt a bit low in the boat but soon adjusted to this.
I found the paddle grip area somewhat uncomfortable. Because this kayak is narrower than some, I found it slightly tricky to balance on my first entry but subsequently this was much easier. I didn’t manage to get into it directly from the water but the addition of the safety rope, which we hadn’t attached for testing would have helped with this.
How does it perform on the water?
I enjoyed paddling this kayak and felt secure and safe in it. We tested the Hydro-force Ventura inflatable from the beach in a gentle onshore wind. There was a slight yaw (side to side movement), but this didn’t negatively impact on forward trajectory. Without the fins, which are tricky to use when launching from a beach, I did move sideways slightly in the wind, but this would be improved with the fins fitted. Our strongest paddler couldn’t make this kayak take on water at speed. The kayak had a drain hole to use if water intake did occur. I wouldn’t recommend this kayak in high winds.
Is it easy to pack down and carry?
I expected to find the lack of rucksack bag a problem with this kayak, but it was so much lighter and easier to manoeuvre than some of its counterparts of the same length that this wasn’t an issue. I easily carried the kayak and paddle on my own both packed in a shoulder style IKEA bag and inflated. Deflation was quick and the boat rolled up easily. It was easy to rinse but, as with other covered inflatable kayaks, it took some time and effort to dry. Once dry it packed away easily. The closed tubes of the paddle took on water during our short test, which meant we had to remove two caps to drain and dry it.
Durability and sustainability
This Hydro-force Ventura is rated for one person and their kit up to 100 kg in sheltered water. The kayak sides are covered with a tough nylon fabric to help it resist puncture and withstand rocky waters. The floor feels sturdy. With three inflation tubes, this kayak would provide flotation even with a puncture to one. A puncture repair patch is included.
Bestway (Hydro-force) recycle 99.7% of their production waste materials, they are members of the Ocean Network and help fund Surfers Against Sewage. They do not take responsibility for the whole lifecycle of this product or offer repairs.
Good value?
Despite not having a rucksack style bag, I thought the Hydro-force Ventura inflatable kayak represented good value, especially for beginner paddlers. The kit included an adjustable paddle and kit bag, and I liked the extra touches such as the safety rope and paddle carrying attachments. Performance on the water was more than acceptable and we found the kayak itself comfortable. When paddling, I would always recommend wearing a personal flotation device and avoiding offshore winds.
Best suited for:
This kayak is suitable for beginner paddlers but those with experience might also enjoy it. I wouldn’t use this kayak in windy conditions but could be tempted to give it a go on a gentle river.
Facts at a glance: Hydro-Force Ventura Inflatable Kayak
Kayak type: Inflatable
Kayak size: 1 person
Packed measurements: 65 x 50 x 30 cm
Boat measurements: 280 x 86 cm
Material: PVC with premium coated nylon
Weight: 12.75 kg
RRP: £320
Items included: Kayak, paddle, seat, footrest cushion, pump, kit bag, 2 fins (no kayak bag)
For more options, head to our full roundup of the best inflatable kayaks, tried and tested.
