This might be our shortest Roto-moulded kayak at 15’ (457cm) but that’s its ‘Superpower’. Not only is it our best kayak for rock-hopping & surfing but it is also the lightest RM kayak we make. Its efficient hull also makes it as fast as some companies’ 16 footer’s and with enough storage, for a few nights away, the only time you might feel compromised is if you need a longer kayak for bigger multiday-trips or if wanting a straighter tracking, ‘speed-machine’ for big open crossings.
The Genesis builds on the success of our previous Gemini model. The real motivation was to bring this capable design to the widest range of paddler sizes and to further increase its versatility. The 15-0 RM, as the name suggests, is sized between the two composite versions (14-10 & 15-1) and therefore covers the biggest possible range perspective paddlers.
The advantage of a shorter kayak, isn’t just a design factor of its hull. Its length also means it can be made lighter, without sacrificing durability, combined though, both these factors make the Genesis easier to handle and transport whilst getting to the water. This advantage also continues, on the water, with these physical attributes adding to the responsiveness of the design. This benefits both the less-experienced, who will find their skills will develop more quickly because of that more immediate feedback. Whilst, the more-experienced, will gain benefit in surf-zones, tide-races and for rock-hopping; basically when “playing the sea”, a descriptive phrase that probably says it all. Although, to mention, being shorter makes it a versatile tourer for inland waters, its predecessor even making a successful run through the Grand Canyon!
Of course, when pushed hard, our longer models will be slightly quicker, yet, you probably won’t notice that, unless measuring it against the clock. Also, the longer kayak will carry more gear but ask yourself if that’s really something you need, because for the majority of paddlers, who just want a versatile, playful, kayak, where manageability and ease of use is their prime consideration, the new Genesis is one kayak that is certainly worth a look.
