The tranquil lap of water against the hull of a boat, the thrill of navigating winding rivers, the joy of an unexpected adventure – the magic of kayaking is undeniable. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect vessel, one name will likely stand out – the Itiwit 100.
Highly praised for its robustness, practicality, and innovation, this kayak has been winning hearts since its debut. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore why the Itiwit 100 is considered one of the best inflatable kayaks among kayaking enthusiasts and whether it’s the right choice for you.
For full disclosure, Decathlon very kindly provided the Itiwit 100 2/3 person touring inflatable kayak for me to review, however, my review is independent of the manufacturer or shop and reflects my own unbiased opinion of the Itiwit kayak. All other equipment used to complete my kayak adventure, including paddle, pump and life jacket were purchased by myself at full price.
Now, let’s delve deep into the world of the Itiwit 100.
About the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak?
Decathlon’s Itiwit 100 2/3 person touring inflatable kayak is your ultimate partner for fun and adventurous water escapades. This inflatable kayak, which can hold 2 to 3 people and up to 230 kg, brings a blend of comfort, stability, and ease of use.
Imagine a compact, lightweight boat that you can quickly inflate, hop in, and glide smoothly across the water with your friends or family, then once you’re done, it deflates just as quickly and packs into a neat backpack-sized bag, ready for your next adventure.
In short, it’s your ticket to freely explore and enjoy the water, whether you’re a casual paddler, an adventure-loving family, or just an adventurer looking for a portable solution.
Itiwit 100 Touring Kayak Specs
No of Paddlers: 2-3 person
Dimensions: 382 x 108 cm
Capacity: 230 kg
Packed Size: 73 x 44 x 33 cm
Material: Polyester / Polyvinyl Chloride
Weight: 17 kg
Pressure: 1.5 PSI (0.1 bar)
Contents: kayak, bag, repair kit, three fins, instruction manual
Best Use: Calm flat waters
Who Created the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak?
Itiwit is a sub-brand of Decathlon, a French company famed for producing high-quality and affordable sports equipment. The name Itiwit combines “ITInerant” referring to travel, and “InuIT” the original inventors of the kayak, creating a symbol of a journey in an iconic watercraft.
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My Experience Using Decathlon’s Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak
First impressions
The first thing I noticed about the Itiwit 100 inflatable kayak was how compact and portable it was in its carry bag. Despite its size and weight, the kayak felt comfortable to carry over short distances. The carry straps, although on the thin side, did the job well. However, for longer distances, I could imagine these might be a little less comfortable, but considering the price point of the kayak, this hardly feels like a significant drawback.
Our adventure began in the car park, about 100 meters from the river bank. We carried the paddle and pump with us separately in hand, as the pack didn’t have room for much more than the kayak itself. There is however a small Velcro pouch on the front of the bag, which is where you will find the instruction manual and the repair kit.
I later noticed there were two small loops on the side of the bag. Although meant for the pump, they conveniently held the paddles, secured with the top buckle strap, enhancing the kayak’s overall portability.
Assembly of the Itiwit 100
The first step we undertook was inflating the kayak. We began by inflating the floor, then proceeded to one of the side tubes, and finally, the other side tube. We initially inflated each side tube to only 50%. Doing this allowed us to check and adjust the chambers’ overall positioning to ensure everything was perfectly aligned. Once satisfied, we fully inflated each section with the recommended pressure of max 0.1 bar (1.5 psi) to prevent any damage from over inflation.
The seats were found neatly tucked away inside when we unfolded the kayak. As there were only two of us on this occasion, we removed the middle seat and then inflated the remaining two before positioning them upon the velcro strip which runs along the kayak floor to secure them in place.
Next, we turned the kayak on its side to install the three fins. Decathlon advises that these fins can be left off if we were planning on using the kayak in a shallow river. However, for our outing, the fins were a necessary addition. The fins easily slid into place on the base of the kayak and then are secured with a small clip to lock them into place.
It wasn’t notably warm on our outing day, however, Decathlon warns that in conditions of extreme heat, it’s advisable to slightly deflate the kayak when out of the water to avoid overinflation. Furthermore, it’s best not to leave the inflated kayak in direct sunlight as this can also lead to overinflation.
Overall, assembling the Itiwit 100 turned out to be an easy, hassle-free process. Our maiden setup of the Itiwit 100 took no more than 20 minutes. While we initially spent some time making sure every step was completed correctly, I expect future setup times to be half that now that I’m familiar with the process. We may have also been a little distracted by some cute spectators.
Now with the kayak fully inflated, seats secured, fins attached, and our gear stowed away neatly under the cover of the cargo net, we were ready to experience the Itiwit 100 in its natural habitat – the open water.
The Itiwit 100 on the Water
After all the preparation, we were excited to get paddling as we carried the fully-inflated Itiwit 100 to the water’s edge. The carry handles on the sides and each end of the kayak came in quite handy for this purpose, making it surprisingly easy to carry despite its size. Once lowered into the water, the handles also came in useful again for holding the vessel close to the shore as the first person eased into the kayak.
Setting the Itiwit 100 afloat was a breeze. Once we were comfortably seated, a gentle push from the riverbank set us off on our journey.
It quickly became evident that this kayak was as stable as they come after I shock and rocked the kayak (much to my passenger’s dismay) to test its stability on the water which it passed with flying colours! The kayak glided effortlessly through the water, proving to be very responsive and easy to manoeuvre on the water.
With two adults onboard, the kayak provided ample space, allowing us to stretch out comfortably. Even with an additional child, I believe it still wouldn’t feel overly crowded. Although this touring kayak is designed for 2 or 3 people, it was easy enough to paddle solo and would still be suitable for one person.
Overall, the Itiwit 100 touring kayak proved to be a solid performer on the water, providing us with a great paddling experience.
Dismantling the Itiwit 100
Dismantling the Itiwit 100 was a straightforward process that began with deflating the seats. This was followed by unscrewing the caps of the three Boston valves, allowing the main body of the kayak to rapidly deflate.
Once deflated, we folded in the sides and worked to squeeze out any remaining air. With the kayak compact once more, we folded it back up and returned it to its backpack. Impressively, the entire process was wrapped up in under 10 minutes, emphasizing the user-friendly design of this kayak.
Final Thoughts
Overall, our experience with the Itiwit 100 inflatable kayak was remarkably positive. Its compact and portable design made it easy to carry, while its efficient set-up and dismantling process saved us time and energy. Its performance on the water was equally impressive, providing excellent stability, manoeuvrability, and comfort for up to three passengers.
This kayak has proven to be an excellent value for its price, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking an accessible and reliable option for their water adventures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, the Itiwit 100 won’t disappoint.
Top Benefits of Itiwit 100 2/3 Person Inflatable Kayak
In the world of water sports, the right equipment can make all the difference in your experience. When it comes to inflatable kayaks, Decathlon’s Itiwit 100 has an impressive array of benefits that enhance your water adventures. From its versatile design to its high durability, this kayak offers a series of advantages that make it a top contender in its category.
Versatility – The Itiwit 100 is versatile in its design, comfortably accommodating 2 to 3 people. This makes it the perfect companion for solo trips, couple outings, or small family adventures on the water.
Easy Assembly and Dismantling – One of the key highlights of the Itiwit 100 is its easy assembly and dismantling. With a quick 10-minute inflation time and an equally swift deflation process, you can get to your adventure without fuss.
High Weight Capacity – The Itiwit 100 is impressive with its weight capacity. Able to support up to 230 kg (507 lbs), it can comfortably accommodate adults, and kids, and even carry picnic baskets or fishing gear, making it a truly reliable companion.
Compact and Portable – Despite its large inflated size, the Itiwit 100 is impressively compact and portable when deflated. It folds neatly into a compact bag for easy transport and convenient storage, making it ideal for those with limited storage space.
Superb Stability – With its side stoppers, inflatable board, and patented bow shape, the Itiwit 100 offers superior stability. This feature makes it a safe choice for both beginners and experienced kayakers, ensuring a worry-free experience on the water.
Comfortable Seating – Comfort is key when spending hours on the water, and the Itiwit 100 delivers with its high seats. This feature provides a comfortable paddling position, contributing to an enjoyable journey on the water.
Glide Performance – The Itiwit 100’s V-shaped front and unique design contribute to a smooth gliding experience on the water. Whether you’re gently paddling on a calm lake or adventuring on a flowing river, you can expect an exceptional performance.
Manoeuvrability – Despite its size, the Itiwit 100 is highly manoeuvrable. This feature makes it perfect for navigating through narrow waterways or avoiding obstacles, providing a hassle-free kayaking experience.
Durability – Constructed with robust materials, the Itiwit 100 is designed for durability. It can withstand regular use and various water conditions, giving you a long-lasting companion for your waterborne adventures.
Reliable After-Sales Service – Investing in the Itiwit 100 also means investing in peace of mind. With a 2-year warranty and the guaranteed availability of spare parts for 10 years, you can be sure your investment is well-protected.
Best Features of Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak
The Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak is not just an ordinary kayak; it’s equipped with a suite of unique features designed to enhance your water adventures. Let’s take a closer look at these standout features that set this kayak apart in the crowded market.
Patented Bow Shape – The Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak has a patented bow shape that not only gives it a distinctive look but also affects its performance on the water. This unique design allows for efficient water entry and contributes to the smooth gliding of the kayak.
Inflatable Board and Side Stoppers – This inflatable kayak features an inflatable board and side stoppers. The inflatable board aids in maintaining the shape and stability of the kayak, while the side stoppers reduce the chances of tipping, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable ride.
High, Adjustable Seats – The Itiwit 100 comes with high, adjustable seats. These seats can be moved and positioned according to the number of people on board, offering versatile seating arrangements that adapt to solo, duo, or trio trips.
Rapid Inflation System – One of the key features of this kayak is its rapid inflation system. With a maximum pressure of 1.5 PSI, the Itiwit 100 can be fully inflated and ready for use within 10 minutes, making it incredibly convenient for spontaneous outings.
Foldable Design – The Itiwit 100 kayak has a foldable design that makes it highly portable. Once deflated, the kayak can be folded and stowed away in its carry bag, making it easy to transport and store.
Replaceable Bladders – The design of the Itiwit 100 includes replaceable left and right bladders. This means in the unlikely event of a puncture, you can easily replace the damaged part, extending the lifespan of the kayak.
Durable Carry Bag – The kayak comes with a durable carry bag that is designed to withstand the rigors of transportation. The bag features backpack-style straps for easy carrying, even over longer distances.
Spare Parts Availability – Spare parts for the Itiwit 100 kayak are readily available online or at your nearest Decathlon workshop. This ensures that you can quickly and easily access necessary replacements or upgrades as needed.
How Much Does the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak Cost?
The Itiwit 100 2/3 person inflatable kayak is priced at £299.99. However, during sales events or promotional periods, the cost has been known to drop to as low as £199.99, offering significant savings for savvy shoppers. Click here to check for any current discounts to grab this excellent piece of gear at a bargain price.
Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak Pros and Cons
Before making a purchase, especially for an investment like a kayak, it’s crucial to have a complete understanding of the product. A balanced perspective of both the pros and cons can guide you in making an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak.
Itiwit 100 Pros
Rapid Assembly: With an impressive inflation time of just 10 minutes, the Itiwit 100 allows you to hit the water quickly, maximizing your adventure time.
Stability: The patented bow shape, inflatable board, and side stoppers contribute to a highly stable kayak. This stability makes it suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
Versatile Seating Arrangement: The high, adjustable seats can be rearranged based on the length and number of passengers, making it flexible for solo, duo, or trio trips.
Portability: The foldable design, combined with a compact and durable carry bag, makes transportation and storage incredibly convenient.
Availability of Spare Parts: The accessibility of spare parts is a major plus point, ensuring that your kayak remains operational and extends its lifespan.
From easy assembly to excellent stability and flexibility, the Itiwit 100 shines in many aspects, making it a strong contender in the inflatable kayak market. However, no product is perfect. It’s time to consider the other side of the coin – the cons.
Itiwit 100 Cons
Pump and Paddle Not Included: The kayak does not come with a pump or paddle, meaning you’ll need to purchase these separately. This could potentially add to the overall cost.
Possible Overheating: The Itiwit 100, like many inflatable kayaks, can potentially overheat and overinflate when left in direct sunlight, requiring careful handling and storage.
Limited Speed: While the patented bow shape does improve the kayak’s glide performance, inflatable kayaks, in general, may not move as quickly or smoothly as their hard-shell counterparts.
While the Itiwit 100 does have a few drawbacks, most of them are inherent to inflatable kayaks and can be managed with proper care and use. It’s important to weigh these pros and cons against your personal needs, preferences, and budget.
Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak Alternatives
In the world of inflatable kayaks, several alternatives stand out as worthy competitors to the Itiwit 100. If you’re still weighing your options, you might want to consider these:
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak: This is a popular alternative for those who are budget-conscious but still want a quality kayak. It accommodates two people, is highly durable, and also features an inflatable I-beam floor for stability.
Sevylor Tahiti Plus: This is a classic choice for families and groups. It has three seats and a spacious design, providing comfort for longer trips. The Sevylor Tahiti Plus is also known for its high stability and durability.
Aqua Spirit Inflatable Kayak: The Aqua Spirit is a strong contender in terms of comfort and convenience. It features adjustable seats and foot braces and comes with a high-pressure hand pump and a carry bag for portability.
Sevylor Adventure Plus: This kayak strikes a balance between comfort and adventure. It accommodates two adults and one child and is equipped with a sturdy polyester hull and a removable fin for excellent manoeuvrability.
Aqua Marina Laxo: Available in two- and three-person versions, the Laxo boasts premium features like adjustable seats with high backrests, a foot brace system, and a high-performance fin system for great tracking abilities.
These alternatives offer a variety of features and price points, giving you a wide range of choices. Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the best inflatable kayak for your adventures.
Conclusion: Should You Buy The Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak?
The Itiwit 100 inflatable touring kayak stands out as a well-designed, versatile, and reliable watercraft, ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers. Its clever design allows for easy transport and storage without compromising on comfort or stability out on the water. Its fast and simple assembly and disassembly process adds to its practicality, making it an excellent choice for those spontaneous outings or planned adventures.
Whether you’re embarking on a family outing or enjoying a solo paddle, the Itiwit 100 adjusts perfectly to your needs. Even with its affordable price point, it does not fall short in offering a premium experience.
So, should you buy the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak? If you’re in search of an affordable, reliable, and convenient option for your kayaking needs, our experience suggests that this kayak is a worthy contender. Don’t let the joy of kayaking be limited by complex set-up or cumbersome transportation. Embrace the simplicity and efficiency that the Itiwit 100 offers, and make your next outing one to remember!
Take the plunge, explore with confidence, and set your adventure afloat with the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak.
You won’t regret it!
Itiwit Kayak FAQ
Is the Itiwit kayak easy to inflate?
Yes, the Itiwit 100 Inflatable Kayak is quite easy to inflate. With a double-action hand pump (which is not included in the package and needs to be purchased separately), you can have it ready for the water in about 10 minutes. The inflation pressure should not exceed 1.5 PSI or 0.1 bar.
Does the Itiwit kayak have good stability?
Absolutely! The Itiwit 100 is designed with side stoppers and an inflatable floor to ensure high stability on the water. This makes it suitable even for beginners who are new to kayaking. Its V-shaped front also provides smooth entry into the water.
Is the Decathlon Itiwit a fast kayak?
While the Itiwit 100 might not be the fastest kayak on the market, its patented bow shape ensures good glide performance. This design makes it easier for paddlers to maintain a decent speed, providing an enjoyable kayaking experience.
Is the Itiwit a comfortable kayak?
Definitely! The Itiwit 100 inflatable touring kayak features raised seats for increased comfort, whether you’re at rest or paddling. The seats are arranged based on the number of persons on board, as indicated by the diagrams printed on the floor of the kayak. It can accommodate two to three people, up to a maximum of 230 kg.
Who is the Itiwit kayak for?
The Itiwit 100 inflatable touring kayak is for anyone who enjoys water adventures. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a more experienced kayaker, this kayak offers a great balance between comfort, stability, and glide performance. It’s suitable for both adults and children (under supervision), making it an excellent choice for family trips.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an adventure blogger dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts make the most of their outdoor experiences. With years of travel and many epic adventures including a 3000-kilometre solo hike across New Zealand, Steve has amassed practical knowledge on outdoor gear. You can learn more about his adventures here. Through expert reviews, recommendations, and guides, he equips his readers with the best gear for their next adventure. If you want to send Steve a quick message, visit his contact page here.
