UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Pedal Touring Kayak Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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In this upwell 13 6 inflatable pedal touring kayak review, we look at a versatile craft designed for both solo and tandem use. This inflatable kayak measures 13 feet 6 inches in length and 38 inches wide. It supports a weight capacity of 650 pounds. The construction uses 0.55 mm PVC with a 1000D ripstop nylon cover. It includes a drop stitch floor for stability. While marketed as a pedal boat, the included accessories are paddles, not a drive system. You get a hand pump and carry bag for transport.
What stands out
- 650 lb weight capacity for tandem or heavy gear loads
- 13'6" length and 38" width provide stable touring platform
- 0.55 mm PVC inner hull with 1000D nylon outer cover
- Includes padded seat with high backrest and adjustable footrests
- Weighs 32 lbs for easy portability without roof racks
Who it fits
Good fit for
This kayak suits paddlers who need a high-capacity vessel for touring or fishing with a partner. The 650 lb limit allows for two adults plus gear. The 13'6" length offers better tracking than shorter models. You will appreciate the durable materials if you launch on rocky shores. It is ideal for storage-limited homes since it rolls into a bag. The included pump makes setup straightforward for beginners.
Who should skip it
If you want a true pedal-driven experience, this model may not fit your needs. The title mentions pedal touring, but the accessory list includes only aluminum paddles and a hand pump. There is no mention of a pedal drive mechanism in the specs. You should look elsewhere if you require a motor mount or a built-in pedal system. The inflatable nature also means it lacks the rigidity of hard-shell kayaks for rough water.
Verdict: The UPWELL 13'6" offers a spacious, durable inflatable option for tandem touring. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing capacity and portability over pedal propulsion.
Key specs explained for UPWELL 13'6"
Length: 13 ft 6 in
This length offers a good balance between tracking straight and maneuverability. You will find it easier to paddle in a straight line compared to shorter models. The 13-foot-6-inch hull helps maintain momentum with less effort. This makes touring on lakes or slow rivers more efficient for you.
Width: 38 inches
A 38-inch width provides significant initial stability. You will feel secure sitting in the kayak, especially when getting in and out. This broad beam reduces tipping risks for beginners. It also offers ample room for gear or a second passenger, enhancing comfort during longer outings.
Weight capacity: 650 lb
The 650-pound limit allows for tandem use or heavy gear loads. You can comfortably carry two adults plus equipment without compromising performance. This high capacity ensures the kayak sits low in the water but remains stable. It is ideal for anglers needing space for tackle boxes and coolers.
Construction: 0.55 mm PVC, 1000D ripstop nylon
This material combination offers durability and puncture resistance. The 0.55 mm PVC inner hull retains air well, while the nylon cover protects against abrasions. You benefit from a robust craft that withstands rough surfaces. This construction is suitable for rocky shorelines or sandy bottoms you may encounter.
Person capacity: 2 person
Designed for two paddlers, this kayak supports tandem trips. You can share the workload or enjoy a ride with a friend or family member. The spacious interior accommodates two adults comfortably. This flexibility makes it useful for solo paddlers who occasionally need extra space for cargo or a companion.
Design and Build Details
According to the listing, the hull uses 0.55 mm PVC with a 1000-denier ripstop nylon cover. This construction aims for puncture resistance and UV protection. The seam welding technology is intended to improve abrasion resistance and air retention. You get a durable surface that handles rough handling better than thin vinyl models.
The kayak measures 13 feet 6 inches long, 38 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high. It weighs 32 pounds, which makes it lightweight for portability. The 650-pound capacity supports two people or one adult with gear. The layout includes a padded seat with a high backrest and adjustable footrests. This setup supports longer touring trips by keeping you comfortable.
You receive two aluminum alloy paddles and a hand pump for inflation. The removable tracking fin helps maintain a straight course. A carry bag allows you to roll the kayak for storage. This design means you do not need roof racks. You can store it in a trunk or closet. The full set of accessories simplifies setup. You inflate it, adjust the seat, and paddle away. The design prioritizes easy transport and quick deployment for casual touring or fishing.
Setup And Daily Use Details
Setting up this inflatable kayak is straightforward. You remove it from the included carry bag and use the hand pump to inflate the hull. The process takes only minutes, allowing you to adjust the seat and footrests before launching. The kayak features handles at the bow and stern, which make carrying it to the water simple. When you are done, you deflate it and roll it back into the bag for storage in a trunk or closet. You do not need roof racks for transport.
The listing notes that the kayak supports both paddle and pedal propulsion. It comes with two aluminum alloy paddles. You can also add a pedal drive system, as indicated by the product attributes. The seat includes a thick padded cushion and a high backrest. Two adjustable footrests are included to help you position your legs comfortably while paddling or pedaling.
For daily maintenance, the kayak has a fully covered, removable floor. This design allows for easy cleaning. You can open the cockpit drain to let water flow through the hull when rinsing. The 0.55 mm PVC material and 1000-denier ripstop nylon cover are intended to resist punctures and abrasion. An emergency repair kit is included in the box. This setup makes the kayak suitable for touring, fishing, or casual paddling with a partner or a pet.
Before You Buy This Kayak
This inflatable kayak fits well if you need a versatile craft for both solo and tandem paddling. It supports up to 650 pounds, which is generous for two adults or one adult with gear. Since it uses a pedal drive system, check if your local waterways allow motorized or pedal-assisted propulsion. The drop stitch floor provides a stable platform, but you must ensure your vehicle trunk can hold the rolled-up bag. You will also need a reliable pump, though one is included. Regular rinsing with fresh water is essential to maintain the PVC and nylon materials. This model competes with other touring inflatables by offering a longer hull for better tracking. Consider your typical paddling environment. Calm lakes and slow rivers suit this design best. If you frequently paddle in rough surf or fast currents, a rigid hull might offer more safety and control. Always verify the weight of your gear against the 650-pound limit. This kayak is ideal for travelers who value easy storage and portability over high-speed performance.
Check before you buy
- Verify local rules for pedal drive usage on your target waterways.
- Ensure your car trunk fits the rolled kayak and carry bag.
- Check if the 650-pound capacity meets your total gear weight.
- Confirm the included pump inflates the hull within your time limits.
The product at a glance
UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Pedal Touring Kayak
Best for: stable tandem touring with easy storage
- Construction
- 0.55 mm PVC, 1000D ripstop nylon
- Length
- 13 ft 6 in
- Capacity
- 650 lb
- Person Capacity
- 2 person
- Propulsion
- Paddle
- Inflatable
- Inflatable
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This 13'6" inflatable kayak offers a 38-inch width and 650-pound capacity for stable touring. It features a 0.55mm PVC hull with 1000D ripstop nylon cover. The design supports one or two adults, including pets. It includes a padded seat, aluminum paddles, and a hand pump. You get a portable solution that rolls into a carry bag for easy storage without racks.
Pros
- 650-pound weight capacity supports two adults or a paddler with gear
- 1000-denier ripstop nylon cover provides puncture and UV resistance
- Includes aluminum alloy paddles, hand pump, and removable tracking fin
- Padded seat with high backrest for comfort on warm days
Cons
- Pedal drive listed in attributes but not visible in the included accessories list
- No dry storage compartments mentioned in the features or specs
- Inflatable construction requires pump setup before each use
Good fit if
- You need a stable platform for occasional tandem trips with a child or pet
- You want to store the kayak in a trunk or closet without roof racks
- You prefer a wide 38-inch hull for enhanced stability on flat water
Skip if
- You require immediate launch without inflation time
- You need dedicated gear storage compartments for fishing equipment
- You prefer a rigid hull for superior tracking and speed
Verdict: UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Touring Kayak suits paddlers who prioritize high weight capacity and portable storage over rigid hull performance. It is ideal for solo or tandem recreational use where convenience matters more than speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Pedal Touring Kayak |
|---|---|
| Construction | 0.55 mm PVC, 1000D ripstop nylon |
| Length | 13 ft 6 in |
| Capacity | 650 lb |
| Person Capacity | 2 person |
| Propulsion | Paddle |
| Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Seat Type | Padded seat with high backrest |
| Use | Boats, Touring |
| Boat Type | Pedal Boat |
| Material | Drop Stitch |
| Dimensions | 13.5 × 38 × 12.5 inches |
| Color | 13’6” Tide Blue |
Frequently asked questions
Is the UPWELL 13'6" inflatable kayak suitable for tandem paddling?
Yes, this model is designed for two-person use. It features a tandem capacity, allowing you to share the experience with a partner. The 38-inch width provides ample room for both paddlers to sit comfortably. This layout supports stable touring on calm waters.
How does the pedal drive system work on this kayak?
The kayak includes a pedal drive propulsion system. This allows you to move the boat using your legs instead of your arms. The design enables hands-free steering and paddling. You can maintain a steady pace while keeping your upper body free for other tasks.
What material is the hull made of?
The hull is constructed using drop stitch material. This technique connects the top and bottom layers with thousands of threads. It creates a rigid, flat surface when inflated. The result is a stable platform that mimics the performance of a hard-shell kayak.
How wide is the UPWELL 13'6" inflatable kayak?
The kayak measures 38 inches in width. This generous beam enhances stability, making it ideal for beginners or tandem use. The wide hull helps keep the boat upright in various water conditions. It provides a secure feel while you paddle.
Can this kayak be used for solo trips?
Yes, you can use it for solo trips. Although rated for two people, the spacious interior accommodates a single paddler easily. The high weight capacity ensures the boat sits high in the water. This reduces drag and makes paddling efficient for one person.
What type of boat is this classified as?
This is classified as a pedal boat and touring kayak. It combines the portability of an inflatable with the efficiency of a pedal drive. The 13-foot-6-inch length aids in tracking straight over long distances. It is built for recreational touring on lakes and calm bays.