Old Town Ocean Kayak or Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak? Which Old Town Model to Buy
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When you compare the old town loon 106 sit inside kayak vs ocean kayak, you are looking at two distinct designs from Old Town. Both models come in the Horizon color and prioritize comfort with ergonomic seating. The main difference lies in their layout and intended use. One is a sit-on-top designed for open water, while the other is a sit-inside model built for calm lakes. Your choice depends on how you plan to paddle and what storage you need.
Key differences
| Aspect | Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top | Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-top | Sit-inside |
| Length | 13 Ft | 10 ft 6 in |
| Weight | 90 pounds | 53 pounds |
| Capacity | not listed | 325 lb |
| Hull Type | not listed | Sharp keel line |
| Use | Ocean | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top if
- You prefer an open deck that self-drains quickly.
- You want a longer hull for better tracking in open water.
- You need stackable storage for gear in tankwells.
Choose Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak if
- You want a lighter kayak that is easier to carry.
- You need a defined interior space for waterproof storage.
- You prefer adjustable foot braces for better leverage.
Verdict: Choose the Malibu Two XL if you prioritize stability and open-water performance. The Loon 106 is better for solo paddlers who want a lighter, more manageable boat for lakes. Both offer comfortable seating, but their layouts serve different environments.
Old Town Kayak Comparison Guide
Seating Style
You choose between two distinct layouts. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a sit-on-top model. This design features open bow and stern tankwells with bungees for storage and allows water to drain quickly through improved scupper locations. You stay dry and secure. The Old Town Loon 106 is a sit-inside kayak. It uses a removable work deck and an Active Comfort System 2.0 seat. This seat provides ergonomic back support and includes adjustable thigh pads. You get a more enclosed, traditional paddling experience with better protection from the elements.
Length and Width
The Malibu Two XL measures 13 feet in length and 34 inches in width. Its longer hull offers greater potential for speed and tracking over distance. The wider beam provides extra initial stability, making it feel steadier when you are sitting still. The Loon 106 is shorter at 10 feet 6 inches and narrower at 31 inches. This compact size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and carry. The shorter length often translates to quicker turning response, which is useful in calm lakes or narrow rivers.
Weight and Capacity
Weight and capacity differ significantly. The Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. It is heavier due to its larger size and sit-on-top construction. The Loon 106 weighs only 53 pounds. This makes the Loon much easier to lift onto a car roof or carry to the water. The Loon has a total weight capacity of 325 pounds. The Malibu Two XL does not list a specific weight capacity in the provided data, so you should check the manufacturer's details for your specific load needs. The lighter Loon is better for solo transport.
Construction and Hull
Both kayaks are built for durability. The Loon 106 features a triple-layer polyethylene hull with a sharp keel line. This sharp keel improves tracking, helping the kayak move straight with less effort. It also includes a Click Seal Hatch for waterproof bulkhead storage, which maintains hull integrity and flotation. The Malibu Two XL uses a stackable design for easy storage. It includes YakLock locking bars and overlapping foot wells for bracing. The Loon offers a more specialized hull shape for efficient paddling, while the Malibu focuses on open, rugged utility.
Storage and Features
Storage solutions vary by model. The Malibu Two XL offers a QuickStash Dry Hatch and large cup holders near each seat. It also has open tankwells with bungees for quick gear access. The Loon 106 features a removable work deck with a USB port for device charging. It includes a Support Track Foot Brace System for adjustable positioning. The Loon also has a Click Seal Hatch for secure, waterproof storage. The Malibu is better for casual gear and drinks. The Loon is better for tech and organized, secure storage.
Choose Your Old Town Kayak Model
You need stable, dry storage for long trips
The Loon 106 features a Click Seal Hatch with waterproof bulkhead storage. This keeps your gear dry while maintaining hull integrity and flotation. You also get a removable work deck with a USB port for charging devices. The 325-pound capacity supports heavier loads comfortably on the water.
You prefer open seating and quick drainage
The Malibu Two XL uses a sit-on-top design with improved scupper locations. Water drains quickly to keep you dry. It includes a QuickStash Dry Hatch and open tankwells with bungees for accessible storage. The stackable design makes transport easier, and the 34-inch width offers stability.
You want lightweight portability and efficient tracking
Weighing 53 pounds, the Loon 106 is significantly lighter than the 90-pound Malibu. Its 10-foot 6-inch length and sharp keel line provide efficient tracking and impact resistance. The triple-layer polyethylene hull ensures durability without adding excessive weight, making it easier to carry and launch.
The products compared
Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Best for: Ocean paddling and stable gear storage
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-Top
- Length
- 13 ft 3.96 in
- Capacity
- 491 lb
- Person Capacity
- 2 person
- Propulsion
- Paddle
- Use
- Recreation, Ocean
View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top Affiliate link
The Old Town Ocean Kayak is a 13-foot sit-on-top model designed for ocean use. It features a 34-inch width and weighs 90 pounds. The boat includes a Comfort Plus Seat and a QuickStash Dry Hatch for storage. Large cup holders and scupper drains help keep you comfortable and dry. This model suits paddlers who need stability and open storage options for day trips.
Pros
- 13-foot length provides good tracking for ocean paddling
- 34-inch width offers enhanced stability
- QuickStash Dry Hatch keeps gear waterproof
- Improved scupper design drains water quickly
Cons
- 90-pound weight makes transport difficult
- No mention of a paddle included
- Sit-on-top design keeps legs exposed to elements
Good fit if
- You plan to paddle in ocean conditions
- You need a stable platform for fishing or gear
- You prefer sit-on-top seating for easy entry
Skip if
- You require a lightweight kayak for solo carrying
- You want a sit-inside hull for cold weather
- You need a compact vessel for small storage spaces
Verdict: Old Town Ocean Kayak 13ft is a sturdy option for ocean paddlers who prioritize stability and storage over portability. Its wide beam and dry hatch make it ideal for day trips where you need to keep gear secure and dry.
Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak
Best for: solo paddlers needing dry storage and tracking
- Seating Style
- Sit-Inside
- Construction
- Triple-Layer Polyethylene
- Length
- 10 feet 6 inches
- Capacity
- 325-pound
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Paddle
View on Amazon: Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak Affiliate link
The Old Town Loon 106 is a 10-foot 6-inch sit-inside kayak built for solo paddlers. It features a sharp keel line for straight tracking and a triple-layer polyethylene hull for impact resistance. The Active Comfort System 2.0 seat and adjustable foot braces support long trips. With a 325-pound capacity and waterproof bulkhead storage, it offers stable performance for coastal or lake exploration.
Pros
- Sharp keel line improves tracking efficiency
- Active Comfort System 2.0 seat with adjustable thigh pads
- Removable work deck includes a USB port for device charging
- Waterproof Click Seal hatch protects gear from water
- Support track foot brace system for better leverage
Cons
- 53-pound weight makes it heavier to carry than some competitors
- Paddle is sold separately
- Limited to solo use with no multi-person seating option
Good fit if
- You want a sit-inside kayak for cooler weather or splash protection
- You prioritize straight-line tracking over rapid maneuverability
- You need secure, dry storage for electronics or gear
Skip if
- You prefer an open sit-on-top design for easy re-entry
- You plan to paddle with a partner or child
- You want a lightweight boat under 45 pounds for frequent portaging
Verdict: Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak suits solo paddlers who value tracking stability and dry storage. It is a practical option for those willing to carry extra weight for enhanced protection and comfort.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top | Old Town Loon 106 Sit-Inside Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-Top | Sit-Inside |
| Construction | not stated | Triple-Layer Polyethylene |
| Length | 13 ft 3.96 in | 10 feet 6 inches |
| Capacity | 491 lb | 325-pound |
| Person Capacity | 2 person | Solo |
| Propulsion | Paddle | Paddle |
| Hull Type | not stated | Sharp Keel Line |
| Seat Type | not stated | Active Comfort System 2.0 Seat |
| Use | Recreation, Ocean | Recreation |
| Color | Horizon | Horizon |
| Size | Length 13 Ft | Length 10 Ft |
| Included Accessories | Paddle | Paddle |
| Dimensions | 150 × 34 × 15 inches | 126 × 31 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 90 pounds | 53 pounds |
| Model | 01.7550.0702 | 01.5521.0702 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Old Town kayak is better for ocean paddling?
The Old Town Malibu Two XL is the better choice for ocean use. It is a sit-on-top model with a 13-foot length and 34-inch width. This wide beam provides greater stability in choppy water. The open design also allows for quick drainage of incoming waves.
Is the Old Town Loon 106 suitable for solo trips?
Yes, the Old Town Loon 106 is designed for solo paddlers. It weighs 53 pounds, making it easier to carry than the heavier Malibu Two XL. Its sit-inside design offers protection from the elements while you paddle. The compact 10-foot length aids in maneuverability on the water.
How do the weights of these two kayaks compare?
The Old Town Loon 106 is significantly lighter than the Malibu Two XL. The Loon 106 weighs 53 pounds, while the Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. If you need to transport your kayak alone, the lighter Loon 106 will be much easier to handle.
Which model offers more storage space for gear?
The Old Town Malibu Two XL offers more open storage space. As a sit-on-top kayak, it features open bow and stern tankwells with bungees. The Loon 106 provides dry storage through a Click Seal Hatch, but the Malibu Two XL is better for bulky, non-waterproof items.
What is the width difference between the two kayaks?
The Old Town Malibu Two XL is wider than the Loon 106. The Malibu Two XL has a width of 34 inches, whereas the Loon 106 is 31 inches wide. The extra width on the Malibu Two XL contributes to its higher stability in open water conditions.
Do both kayaks come in the Horizon color?
Yes, both the Old Town Malibu Two XL and the Old Town Loon 106 are available in the Horizon color. You can choose your preferred seating style and size while keeping this specific color option. Both models share this aesthetic choice for a consistent look.
Which kayak is better for beginners who want stability?
The Old Town Malibu Two XL is likely better for beginners seeking stability. Its 13-foot length and 34-inch width create a stable platform. The sit-on-top design also allows you to easily re-enter the kayak if you fall out, which is helpful for new paddlers.
How does the length affect paddling performance?
Length impacts tracking and speed on the water. The 13-foot Malibu Two XL tracks better in straight lines over long distances. The 10-foot Loon 106 is more maneuverable and quicker to turn. Choose the longer model for distance and the shorter one for agility.