NRS Outlaw I Review: NRS (Northwest River Supplies) has long been recognized as a leading brand in the water sports industry, renowned for producing high-quality, reliable equipment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Established in 1972, NRS has built a strong reputation for its commitment to safety, performance, and durability. The brand’s wide range of products, from kayaking gear to apparel, caters to both professionals and hobbyists alike, making NRS a trusted name in the paddling community.
The NRS Outlaw I Kayak is an inflatable, one-person kayak designed for paddlers who value portability without sacrificing performance. It is especially appealing for those looking for a sturdy yet affordable vessel to tackle various water conditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler seeking a lightweight backup or a beginner looking for an entry-level kayak, the NRS Outlaw I offers an attractive balance of durability and ease of use.
Targeted towards adventure-seekers, this kayak is suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers who want a versatile kayak for both calm rivers and whitewater. Its design makes it accessible to individuals interested in recreational paddling or more thrilling activities like navigating rapids, offering an excellent introduction to the sport without overwhelming newcomers with complexity.
Key Features of NRS Outlaw I Review
Durability and Materials
The NRS Outlaw I Kayak stands out for its robust construction, made from heavy-duty PVC material. This durable, long-lasting material is highly resistant to punctures and abrasions, making the kayak ideal for rough water conditions and rocky riverbeds. The reinforced seams add an extra layer of durability, ensuring that the kayak can handle frequent use without showing signs of wear and tear, even after challenging expeditions.
Design and Dimensions
In terms of size, the kayak is designed with a balance of portability and functionality. Measuring 9’10” in length and weighing just 26 pounds, the NRS Outlaw I is compact yet spacious enough to accommodate the average paddler comfortably.
The cockpit is designed to offer ample space for the legs and feet, ensuring comfort during longer rides. Its sleek design ensures that the kayak performs well in different water conditions, while still being light enough for easy transport and storage.
Inflation and Setup
One of the standout features of the NRS Outlaw I is its user-friendly inflation process. The kayak comes with multiple air chambers, which can be inflated quickly with the provided pump, ensuring that the kayak is water-ready in a matter of minutes. The design includes three separate air chambers, offering both safety and rigidity. If one chamber deflates due to damage, the kayak will remain buoyant, giving the paddler peace of mind during their trips.
Performance of NRS Outlaw I Review
Stability on Water
The NRS Outlaw I Kayak is praised for its stability in a wide range of water conditions. Its wide base and inflatable construction provide a solid platform, making it highly stable on calm waters.
However, it also excels in rougher conditions, such as whitewater, where stability is crucial for safety. This makes it a versatile choice for paddlers who want to navigate both gentle rivers and more challenging rapids.
Maneuverability
Handling is another strong point of the NRS Outlaw I. Thanks to its lightweight design and shorter length, this kayak is highly maneuverable, allowing for sharp turns and precise control in tight spaces.
Whether you’re navigating through fast-moving currents or weaving around obstacles in calmer waters, the kayak’s responsive nature ensures a smooth experience.
Its inflatable design does not hinder its agility, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate paddlers.
Speed
When it comes to speed, the NRS Outlaw I offers decent performance, though it’s not built primarily for speed. Its inflatable design gives it a bit more drag compared to rigid kayaks, but it still moves efficiently through the water.
Its tracking capabilities, particularly on flatwater, ensure that paddlers can maintain a steady pace without constantly adjusting their course. While it may not be the fastest option on the market, it provides a reliable balance between speed and control.
Comfort and Ergonomics of NRS Outlaw I Review
The NRS Outlaw I prioritizes comfort, ensuring that paddlers can enjoy extended trips without discomfort. One of the key comfort features is the adjustable seating system, which allows paddlers to modify the seat position to match their height and preferred paddling style.
This customization makes it ideal for paddlers of various sizes, ensuring that everyone from shorter individuals to taller paddlers can find a comfortable seating position.
Legroom is another important aspect of the kayak’s design, particularly for longer trips where comfort becomes essential. The Outlaw I offers generous legroom for paddlers, allowing for a more relaxed posture during extended paddling sessions.
Unlike more cramped kayaks, which can lead to discomfort, this model gives you the space to stretch out, reducing the risk of cramping or fatigue during long outings.
In addition to seating and legroom, the kayak’s inflatable nature provides a cushioned ride, which absorbs some of the impact from rougher waters.
This means that paddlers can enjoy a smoother experience, even when navigating through more turbulent conditions. Overall, the NRS Outlaw I delivers on both comfort and functionality, making it a strong choice for recreational paddlers seeking a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
Pros and Cons of NRS Outlaw I Review
Pros
One of the main advantages of the NRS Outlaw I Kayak is its durability. The PVC construction and reinforced seams ensure that it can handle the wear and tear of regular use, especially in rough waters.
Another key pro is its portability. Weighing only 26 pounds, the kayak is easy to carry and transport, whether you’re traveling to a distant paddling spot or just storing it in a small space.
Additionally, its ease of setup makes it convenient for spontaneous trips, as you can inflate and deflate it quickly.
Cons
On the downside, some paddlers might find the weight of the kayak to be slightly cumbersome, especially when compared to ultra-light models.
While 26 pounds is manageable, it can still pose a challenge for individuals who plan to hike longer distances before reaching the water.
Another potential drawback is the lack of accessories included with the kayak.
Unlike some other models that come with additional storage options or paddles, the Outlaw I requires additional purchases to complete the setup.
While it excels in most areas, some users might feel that the kayak’s speed isn’t its strongest attribute. The inflatable design, while beneficial for portability, sacrifices some speed and tracking when compared to rigid kayaks.
However, for its price range and target market, these drawbacks are relatively minor, making it a solid investment for casual paddlers.
Who Should Buy the NRS Outlaw I?
The NRS Outlaw I is an ideal choice for a wide range of paddlers, from beginners to intermediate users. Its stable and durable design makes it particularly suitable for those who are new to kayaking and want a reliable, easy-to-use vessel.
The kayak’s forgiving nature and ease of setup allow beginners to get on the water quickly and focus on improving their paddling skills without worrying about complex assembly or maintenance.
Intermediate paddlers will also find value in the Outlaw I, particularly those who want a versatile kayak that can handle both calm rivers and more challenging rapids.
For adventurers who like to explore different water environments, the Outlaw I offers enough performance to make it a reliable companion on more difficult water routes. It’s also a great option for those who prioritize portability and need a kayak that can be easily transported and stored.
In terms of activities, the NRS Outlaw I is best suited for recreational paddling on lakes, rivers, and even mild whitewater conditions. It’s an excellent choice for day trips, weekend adventures, or as a backup kayak for more serious paddlers who need a versatile and portable vessel.
Conclusion of NRS Outlaw I Review
In conclusion, the NRS Outlaw I Kayak delivers great value for money, offering durability, ease of use, and versatility at an affordable price point.
For paddlers who need a reliable inflatable kayak that performs well in different water conditions, it’s hard to go wrong with the Outlaw I. Its sturdy PVC construction and user-friendly design make it a dependable choice for both casual users and more experienced paddlers looking for a secondary kayak.
For beginners, the Outlaw I is an ideal entry-level kayak that balances affordability and performance. Intermediate paddlers and adventurers will appreciate its versatility, particularly its ability to handle a variety of water types.
Though it may not be the fastest kayak available, its stability and maneuverability make up for this, providing a well-rounded experience that will suit most paddling needs.
Overall, the NRS Outlaw I is a strong recommendation for anyone looking for a portable, durable, and easy-to-use inflatable kayak. Whether you’re venturing into whitewater or simply exploring calm lakes, this kayak offers a reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable paddling experience.
FAQ for Outlaw Kayak
Q. How wide is the outlaw kayak?
Answer: Specifications
- Length: 138 in – 350.52 cm.
- Height: 16 in – 40.64 cm.
- Width: 35 in – 88.9 cm.
- Weight: 77 lb – 34.93 kg.
- Max Weight Capacity: 425 lb – 192.78 kg.
- Activity Type: Fishing.
- Passengers: More than 2.
Q. 1. What is the weight capacity of the NRS Outlaw I kayak?
Answer: The NRS Outlaw I kayak has a weight capacity of up to 275 pounds, making it suitable for most paddlers and gear.
Q. 2. How durable is the NRS Outlaw I kayak?
Answer: The NRS Outlaw I is constructed from heavy-duty PVC material, providing excellent durability for rugged river conditions. The welded seams add extra strength to the kayak.
Q. 3. Is the NRS Outlaw I suitable for beginners?
Answer: Yes, the NRS Outlaw I is great for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It offers good stability, making it easier to control in whitewater conditions.
Q. 4. Can the NRS Outlaw I be used on flatwater?
Answer: While designed for whitewater, the NRS Outlaw I can be used on flatwater. However, its tracking might not be as efficient as a kayak designed specifically for flatwater.
Q. 5. How portable is the NRS Outlaw I kayak?
Answer: The NRS Outlaw I is inflatable and packs down into a compact size for easy transport and storage. It weighs 33 pounds, making it manageable for one person to carry.
Q. 6. What accessories come with the NRS Outlaw I?
Answer: The NRS Outlaw I comes with a high-pressure pump, carrying bag, and repair kit. You’ll need to purchase a paddle and personal flotation device (PFD) separately.
Q. 7. How long does it take to inflate the NRS Outlaw I?
Answer: It typically takes around 10 minutes to inflate the NRS Outlaw I kayak using the included high-pressure pump.
Q. 8. Can I attach gear to the NRS Outlaw I?
Answer: Yes, the kayak has multiple D-rings for securing gear and bags, making it ideal for day trips or multi-day adventures.
Q. 9. Is there a warranty on the NRS Outlaw I?
Answer: Yes, NRS offers a 3-year retail warranty on the Outlaw I, covering any manufacturing defects.
Q. 10. What type of water is the NRS Outlaw I best suited for?
Answer: The NRS Outlaw I is designed for whitewater adventures but can also handle calm rivers and lakes, making it versatile for different water conditions.