Buzz
While the idea of having a compact boat for spontaneous outings is appealing, the challenge lies in transporting it to the water and finding storage afterward. Traditional car carriers vary from budget-friendly but cumbersome options to pricier, more convenient ones. Enter Oru Kayak, offering a solution with kayaks that fold down to the size of a suitcase.
Unlike inexpensive inflatable kayaks (which have their limitations but remain enjoyable), a folding kayak offers greater durability. There’s no need for inflation, though assembling it involves mastering the art of folding corrugated plastic.
For this review, I tested the 9-foot Lake+ from Oru. This model builds on the $499 Lake, Oru’s entry-level kayak, but features enhanced seat cushioning, an adjustable footrest, and a customizable backrest. For those seeking premium options, the 16-foot Coast XT is available at $1,999. While competitors like TuckTec exist, Oru remains the most reputable brand in the foldable kayak market.
As mentioned, these foldable kayaks are entirely different from
How cumbersome is it to fold and unfold the Oru Lake?
The Lake+ boasts “1-minute assembly,” but it’s no surprise that this is a best-case scenario. During my first attempt in the backyard, I struggled and perspired while assembling the kayak. I realized I had followed some steps out of order, requiring me to backtrack and redo parts of the process. Ultimately, it took me about 15 minutes to complete the assembly.
After gaining some experience, assembling the kayak became significantly faster. During my next attempt at the lake, it took me only about five minutes. (Oru mentions that the plastic can be rigid and challenging to fold when new, but with use, the fold lines soften, making the process easier over time.)
A QR code printed on the kayak directs you to an instructional video for both folding and unfolding. The most challenging aspect is that the boat folds differently for storage versus use on water. Transitioning between these modes requires unfolding certain lines (which may need some force) and creating new creases.
Despite the initial challenges, the kayak functions well, with all parts fitting together seamlessly. The seat, attached to a sturdy orange rectangle, is placed in the center of the floor. The front and back of the kayak are secured using buckle straps, which can be physically demanding, especially when the material is new and stiff. Over time, as the material breaks in, achieving the promised one-minute assembly time seems feasible.
How does the Oru Lake perform on the water?
On a chilly day, I tested the Lake+ on my local lake. (Though it’s not ideal kayaking weather, I braved the cold for you, dear readers. Always wear a PFD and suitable clothing—I opted for a wetsuit—when kayaking in cold conditions.)
Regarding PFDs, Oru Kayak provided one for testing. Initially hesitant because I own several, I found the Oru PFD to be exceptionally comfortable for paddling. Its design features flotation foam only in the upper back, allowing the vest to sit comfortably against the kayak seat without interference.
Overall, the Lake+ offers a comfortable experience. The seat is well-designed, though the footrest, secured by three tension cords, lacks the stability of traditional side-mounted footrests found in other kayaks.
True to its promise, the kayak performed well on the water with no leaks or issues. As a 9-foot kayak, it tends to veer slightly with each paddle stroke, which is typical for shorter, flat-bottomed boats. (Larger, pricier models likely offer better tracking.) While it doesn’t track as precisely as my Pelican kayak, the trade-off is worth it for the convenience of a portable, foldable design.
After completing my tests, I folded the kayak back into its compact form. Like inflatable kayaks, the Oru kayak was wet and slightly muddy after use. Oru suggests letting it sit for about 10 minutes to allow water to drain from the plastic’s corrugations.
The kayak conveniently folds into a suitcase-sized package, complete with a handle and straps, eliminating the need for a separate storage bag. While Oru offers a backpack for easier transport, I found it unnecessary—I simply placed the folded kayak in my car and drove home.
Correction: The kayak tested was the Lake+, not the Lake, as previously stated.
