California-based kayak maker Oru Kayak has made a name for itself through innovation and design. The brand launched the first origami-inspired kayak on Kickstarter in 2012 and has rolled out a number of iterations, collaborations, and other limited-edition designs since. Today though, Oru Kayak introduces the Inlet, the brand’s first totally new origami pattern since the original Bay ST model.
The all-new Inlet is 34% smaller by packed volume, 29% lighter weight than the flagship Bay ST, and more affordable—the Inlet is now on Kickstarter for $699, though will retail for $850, which is still $450 less than Oru’s current least expensive model. And, it can be unfolded and assembled into a boat in just 2-3 minutes.
With past experience paddling around in the Beach LT, we can confidently vouch for how damn fun these origami kayaks can be. And as New Yorkers, the portability and storability cannot be understated. Being able to toss a real, full on kayak on your back and take public transportation to the put in is incredible. And at just 20 lbs, it’s light enough for pretty much all adventurers.
Only hours into the campaign the Inlet has already significantly surpassed it’s original goal. So get in on the early bird price before it expires.
