The Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak has a quick and easy setup, which packs in a small size, making it easy to carry anywhere and store when, not in use. This cool inflatable is made out of the durable vinyl material that resists puncture and abrasion, making it both safe and extending the life of the kayak. The simplified design, comfortable seats, and easy navigation make the Intex Challenger K2 fun to use for the whole family.
Specifications
- Inflated measurements – 11 feet 6 inches x 2 feet 6 inches x 1 foot 3 inches
- Deflated measurements – 24.25 inches x 17 inches x 9.5 inches
- Weight – 33.5 pounds
- Weight capacity – 2 people or about 400 pounds
- Quality and safety certification – Certified by the National Association of Marine Producers to comply with US Coastal Forest standards and regulations. TUV approved
What did we like about the way it is made?
- Robust vinyl construction – The thick 30 gauge vinyl plastic is quite durable and can withstand minor bumps and scratches. However, avoid very sharp objects. It is also UV resistant to protect it from the sun.
- Adjustable inflatable seats – The integrated seats and backrests are adjustable to make them a little more comfortable. While this is a two-person kayak, you can choose to install a single-seat in case you want to use it alone.
- Inflatable floor with I beam – The unique inflatable floor with I beam adds great rigidity, stability, and durability.
- Two inner air tubes – The two inner air tubes or chambers improve the safety and reliability of the kayak, as well as simplifying the configuration.
- Boston Valves – Large, sturdy Boston valves make the kayak inflate and deflate very quickly and easily.
What do we like about the design?
- High visibility graphics – The colors and graphics on the Challenger K2 are fun and sporty, but also very visible for extra safety when you’re in the water.
- Removable Skeg – Removable Skeg provides directional stability, but can be easily removed for use in shallow water conditions.
- Extremely comfortable cockpit – The cockpit is specially designed for comfort, to make long boat rides more enjoyable.
- Low profile – The low profile of the Challenger K2 makes it absolutely ideal for mild lakes and rivers.
- Beautifully streamlined shape – The sleek and streamlined shape of the Challenger K2 makes it very easy to paddle.
- Cargo net included – The onboard cargo net keeps the stored items conveniently and safely.
What else is included?
- Repair Patch Set – In case of unexpected leaks or punctures, the Challenger K2 comes with a patch repair kit.
- Pump – The included high-power Intex dual-action pump makes inflation and deflation quick and easy.
- Carrying case – The carrying case is durable and water-resistant.
- Two pallets – The two 86-inch aluminium pallets break down to be portable and are lightweight for easy use.
How to use the Intex Challenger K2 kayak
The setup on the Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak is quick, easy, and detailed in order for you to understand the inflation instructions which are in the owner’s manual. There are two valves, each numbered in the order in which they are to be inflated. Next to each valve you will find a measuring line to check against the included ruler for proper inflation. Keep in mind that the kayak should never be under or over-inflated. The total setup takes less than 10 minutes with the high power pump included.
When you receive the Challenger K2, you should open the box and unpack and inflate the kayak, just to make sure everything is there and to understand how to use it and check for leaks. This way you can avoid disappointment when you are ready to take it out on the water.
Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak Pros:
- Portable and easy to store: The fact that the Challenger K2 can fit anywhere and can be inflated and configured in just a few minutes, makes it incredibly convenient for travel, use, and storage. Unlike a conventional kayak, it is easy for people who do not have a roof rack for transport or garage and extra storage space.
- Simple and fun to use: The easy setup, navigation, and ease of the Challenger K2 make it fun and simple for the whole family.
- Challenger K2 can hold one or two people: Although it is so light and easy, you can comfortably hold two adults in the Challenger K2 without any problem. For their solo version, you can take a look at the Intex Challenger K1.
- Sustainable construction: The thick and sturdy vinyl of the Challenger K2 makes it much more durable than many other inflatable kayaks, so you can use it for much longer. However, in the case it has a leak, the inflatable kayaks are very easy to repair, and the Challenger K2 even comes with a repair kit.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Cons:
- Paddles are not great: The included paddles are not very long and not very robust. For easier use and long-term pleasure, we recommend that you update your palettes.
- Small space for loading and storage: Challenger K2 comfortably fits two medium-sized adults and has space in the bow and stern, as well as a storage net for extra storage. However, there are not much room for consumables, cooler and other things that you may want to carry on a longer trip.
Customer FAQs
- Question: If I wanted to sit on my back to look at the sky for a while, could I do that comfortably in this? I’m only 5’6 “tall.
- Answer: I have to say yes, yes, you can. I am 5’10-5’11ish and in the middle of my fishing trip, I had the desire to really stretch a bit and relax. I took my legs out of the compartment they should be in, put them on top, and lay on my back, and was surprisingly comfortable.
- Question: My question would answer whether or not the currently delivered model is the newest version. Does the K2 skeg REMOVEABLE bigger or not?
- Answer: My K2 is currently stored. I didn’t play with its skeg to determine if it is removable, fixed, and/or built-in. However, while a larger skeg may seem to track better, better tracking seems more dependent on better paddling/rowing.
- Question: What is the difference between the Intex Challenger kayak and the Intex Explorer?
- Answer: The Explorer is a larger kayak. Higher sidewalls. In my case, the Challenger K2 works well and I have enough space.
Conclusion
The Intex Challenger K2 kayak is an extremely fun, portable, easy-to-use inflatable kayak, perfect for family vacations and weekends. It is surprisingly durable and can last for years with easy use and good care. It is a great choice for calm lakes and rivers and comes with everything you need. All you have to do is open the box and be on the water in minutes. Therefore, if this review convinced you to get one of these extremely affordable and fun inflatable kayaks, we recommend you check out amazon.com for the best prices out there.
