Kayaking is a popular recreational activity on a flatwater stream or lake in many countries, including the United States. There are many different types of kayaks, and the shapes and size of kayaks vary significantly depending on the type of water to be paddled and what a paddler is doing. In this article, we are going to talk about the Pelican Pursuit 80x Kayak – a recreational sit-in kayak made by Pelican.
Pelican is a well-known manufacturer of kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and fishing boards that has been on the market for over 50 years. It is well known globally for its quality and durable products and affordable prices. It is the only kayak manufacturer in North America that uses TST double sheet thermoforming technology.
Features of the Pelican Pursuit 80x
Here is a list of main features of this Pelican kayak:
- Dimensions: 93 x 14 x 28 inches
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Capacity: 200 lbs
- Seating: one
- Material: multi-layer polyethylene with an advanced resin (RAM-XTM Premium)
- Adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest
- Carrying handles
- Storage platform that has bungee cords
- Drain plug
- Cockpit table
- Bottle holder
The recreational sit-in kayak Pelican Pursuit 80x Argo is perfect for inexperienced paddlers who want to enjoy a relaxing and stable kayaking experience during both warm and cool seasons (spring, summer or early fall) on calm and slow-moving waters. This kayak is known for its excellent stability with its spacious cockpits. This kayak is easy to manage and use, and getting in-and-out of a kayak has never been easier. The Pelican Argo 80x kayak is specially designed for smaller paddlers and for those who are looking for a shorter kayak that does not exceed 10 feet long. Its lightweight and compact size of only 27 lbs (about 12 kg) make it an incredible kayak to transport, carry, and store.
In addition, the Argo 80x kayak is also equipped with a cockpit table with a bottle holder, a large tank well, and an adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest.
As mentioned above, it is perfect for inexperienced smaller paddlers and even kids.
Here you can check a video overview:
What Do Buyers of the Pelican Pursuit 80x Kayak Say About It?
Most owners point out that it is lightweight and easy to use. It is also easy to load and unload and it fits inside most cars (even Honda CRV and small SUV), so there are no issues with its storage and transportation.
Some older paddlers are also satisfied with its kayak because it is much easier to use than other models. It is also good not only for older adults but for kids due to its lightweight. Older adults find it easy to carry themselves. It is also often purchased by women. However, if you are taller than 5’8”, it might be better to check other models.
Some people mention though that it may be difficult to use and balance in rough waters, and it is good only for a relaxing kayaking experience. Most paddlers use it for flat water kayaking.
Another drawback of this kayak is that there is very limited storage space. Therefore, it may be uncomfortable to store a backpack, equipment, and personal belongings between legs and feet. Many paddlers buy and install a hatch to the back deck and a paddle holder to expand possible storage. to the front deck of the kayak.
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The stability of the Argo 80x may also be an issue, especially if you are a taller paddler, so you may think of adding foot braces to improve it.
However, as many paddlers mention, even after all the additions and modifications that they spent money on to improve the kayak and their experience, this kayak is still very affordable and is definitely worth buying. It is hard to find another kayak with all the features the Argo 80x has for such a great price.
The kayak is also sturdy, stable, and safe, so it can be used by kids who can maneuver it easily. Since it is lightweight, it is also much faster than other kayaks.
Even though it is rated 200 lbs, it is better not to use it if you are over 150lbs because you will be sitting really low in the water. Moreover, the bigger you are, the harder it is to keep it in a straight line and track it.
Some paddlers also point out that this model is great for those who appreciate comfort while paddling or suffer from back pain. Since the kayak features a padded backrest, you will enjoy using it even if you have a bad back.
Most people who purchased and tested the Argo 80x agree that even though it is going to win any races, it is the perfect first kayak for complete beginners and kids and those who want to enjoy easy recreational kayaking on weekends.
Pros and Cons
Here are the main advantages of this kayak:
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Easy to carry, transport, and store
- Good for kids, older people, and beginners
- Excellent price point
- Durability and sturdiness
Though it can boast numerous advantages, there are certain drawbacks you should know about:
- Not good for bigger and taller people
- Limited storage
- No foot braces
Conclusion
Our rating: 
4.3 / 5
The Argo 80x Kayak is a great kayak for beginners and inexperienced paddlers that come with numerous advantages. Compared to many other similar kayaks, it is affordable, lightweight, easy to carry, transport, and store. Therefore, it is a great choice for shorter women, older adults, and children. It is perfect for recreation relaxing kayaking on calm waters.
However, despite all the advantages, there also some drawbacks that need to be mentioned. First, this kayak is not good for taller and bigger people. If you are taller than 5’8” and weigh more than 150 lbs, it is better to check other models. Also, there are some features missing, including foot braces and additional storage. However, it is easy to purchase and add them to the kayak.