You have heard of canoes, kayaks, and other boats and probably used them yourself. But not a lot of people have considered buying a dinghy for personal use. Truth be told, dinghies have many great uses.
Some dinghies have internal engines and function essentially as small motorboats. Others are called rowing dinghies. As the name implies, these are not motorized and are propelled instead with a standard oar.
Dinghies can be used for recreational sailing. But most of the time, they are used for practical or training purposes. People use them to patrol small areas as well as supply rescue services or haul small loads. Some people also prefer to use them in place of kayaks or canoes when teaching someone else to row, especially a child.
So what should you look for in a quality dinghy?
Dinghies come in many styles and materials. Depending on your intended use, you might find one or another suits you better. Increasingly, inflatable dinghies are becoming great options. You might think that inflatable is synonymous with “flimsy,” but that isn’t the case. Many of the inflatable dinghies you will find on the market today are made to be super durable, so you can use them with as much confidence as you use regular boats.
One excellent model is the Klymit Litewater Dinghy. This inflatable model is known for its durability, superb directionality, and lightweight portability. So how does the Klymit measure up?
Features
These are the main features of the Klymit LWD and how they can benefit you:
- Incredibly lightweight and portable
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Dynamic shape makes it easy to maneuver
- Insulated and ergonomic
- Extra durable to keep you safe on the water
- Security features to help you secure it onshore
Here you can check a video overview by Wildcat Outdoors:
Portability
At less than three pounds, the Klymit dinghy is one of the lightest inflatable dinghies you can find anywhere. When deflated, the model can wrap up and be carried like any other bag. To make things even easier, the pump converts into one of the most compact carrying bags you will find, measuring just 4.5 by 9 inches. Carrying a boat on your back has never been easier.
Easy Inflation
With two valves for quick inflation and deflation, the Klymit is fast and easy to get ready for the water. The included dry sack pump converts into a carrying bag so you can carry it along with you without a fuss.
Arrow Shape For Maneuverability
The Klymit’s unique arrow shape ensures that it is fast and maneuverable in the water. You will never have to struggle with an oar in this dynamic boat; the shape does half the work for you. This is one feature that makes it an excellent craft for teaching beginners how to row. Additionally, it is ideal for tricky environments like canyons or backcountry waters, when you may have to maneuver around obstacles.
Ergonomic Seating
Say goodbye to feeling cramped and uncomfortable while riding in a boat. The Klymit packcraft makes it easy to navigate the water in comfort. Its internal padded seating inflates with the rest of the craft to provide a comfortable space for you to sit. The seat is also insulated so you stay warm and dry even while out on the water.
View this post on Instagram
The build of the seat ensures that you sit high up above the surface of the water. This lets you have a clear vantage point without rocking or disturbing the boat.
Durability
The Klymit might be an inflatable boat, but that doesn’t mean that it is fragile. It is made from durable 210D polyester, which makes it highly resistant to scratches, cuts, and punctures. Although it might not be suited to heavy rapids or severely rocky areas, it can handle most conditions of the water without damage. Of course, if you do happen to get a puncture, it is easy to repair. However, most users report that it is extremely durable.
Another aspect of durability is the amount of weight and cargo a boat can support. The Klymit easily supports up to 200 lbs or more. Don’t underestimate the make of this dinghy — it is made to work hard.
Security Features
Every boat needs to be able to be secured to the shore, especially a lightweight boat. This goes doubly for a boat like a dinghy, which is often used to scout along different locations within the same area.
The Klymit Litewater dinghy comes with six separate tie-on spots. These are perfect for securing the boat to the shore or for tying gear to the craft. You can also tow moderately-sized loads behind the boat with no effort at all.
What Users Are Saying
In general, users have very positive things to say about the Klymit packcraft. They consistently mention the durability of the craft as well as how effortlessly it supports even heavy loads. Some users even mention bringing dogs or children along in the boat and that it supported their weight and activity without a problem.
View this post on Instagram
Other users share the opinion that the boat is not suited for very rough waters, a point that may well stand. Although the Klymit is very durable, dinghies are generally better suited to deep, calm water rather than rapids. This does not necessarily mean that the manufacturers’ claims of durability are false — just that the boat is not made for those environments.
Pros And Cons
As with any other product, you will find some pros and cons to the Klymit Litewater dinghy. Some users find the cons easy to overlook, while others find that they put the nail in the coffin. It is up to you to decide what features are deal breakers for you and whether the pros outweigh the cons.
- Lightweight and portable
- Pump doubles as a carry pack
- Inflation is quick and easy
- Easy to maneuver
- Comfortable seating
- Durable material resists punctures and damage
- Some users report difficulty with tracking, causing the boat to spin 180 degrees
- The center of gravity may feel too high for some users
- May not have the towing power or support that some users need
Is Klymit Litewater Dinghy Worth It?
Our rating: 
4.5 / 5
Dinghies like the Klymit LWD can be a great choice for doing tasks out on the water — or even just using recreationally. However, they might not be hardy enough for some more extreme outdoor activities. This craft isn’t for hitting the whitewater rapids, but it could be perfect for a leisurely afternoon out on the lake. Despite the description and appearance, it is a surprisingly sturdy craft that will challenge your ideas of what an inflatable boat should be.
Users also searched for: