Big Dog Kaos Review

Big Dog Kaos Review…

Ok so I have been paddling my Kaos since August 2011, therefore it feels about time to write a little review. Though before I go any further a little about me, after all if I was a freestyle pro or sponsored by Big Dog Kayak you probably like to know, I am not but I have been paddling quiet frequently over the last two years. Living on the south coast with plenty of flatwater I decide to buy a playboat and try to learn a few tricks, so far I am not to good so this review will not comment on it balance on end rather it user friendliness and feel on the river.

Test Locations

Over the last year the boat has been on; the loop, Tryweryn both upper and lower, lee Valley, Cardiff at 8 Cumecs and a selection of flatwater and play features such as woodmill.

The Boat

I own the medium Kaos, 6.05, and without a doubt it is brilliant fun I have found it really rather quick, stable and easy to role. On the river it carves beautifully in and out of eddies, though it can me more work on longer ferry. On a wave or in a hole the boat is very user friendly and makes learning freestyle great fun, this boat would spin all day long if it could. Furthermore on an eddie line this boat loves the sky allowing for the classic tale squirt, so your always be entertained while moving down river.

Outfitting

Ok so there is much rumor about the outfitting of this boat suggesting it to be basic and uncomfortable. To be honest it is basic but it works and I find it really quite comfortable, while the backrest does a good job to pull everything together. Though my boat did have some problems with a thigh brace snapping, within two days I had a brand new set, from the guys at Big Dog, who without doubt give you a fantastic after sale service.

Overall

Overall I have found this boat fantastic to learn in, but that does not mean I am going to sell it any time soon. It is fantastic on the river and out of the newer style playboats this one really does handle fantastically on the river. The Kaos is significantly cheaper than many other boats, plus Big Dog Kayaks are based in the UK, for more information check out their website www.bigdogkayaks.com. If your looking for a new playboat, have a look at the Kaos I think you may be pleasantly surprised.

Happy Boating