So I’m looking to get back into paddling here in SE Virginia. There are two used boats I’m looking at, Equinox and Whistler. Both are around 5 yrs old and look to be in good shape.
The Eddyline is a couple hundred more than the CD, but is also 15 pounds lighter from what I can tell… I’ve always admired Eddyline when I paddling before, they seem like top-notch quality.
Thoughts on the two? I’m 5’9", currently around 200# for reference and both boats are 14’. Mostly looking to do flatish water initially, but like the option of more.
Thanks,
Chris
Equinox
I have paddled an Equinox for a decade or so. Like all Eddyline boats it is very high quality construction and I think the thermoforming construction is ideal. It is a very stable ride which is designed to not need a rudder or skeg. At 14’ it will function as either a rec boat or a touring boat. It has sufficient storage for a week long paddle in the Everglades and is comfortable in 4’ waves on the Great Lakes. It has a little bigger cockpit than many sea kayaks which makes it easy to get in and out but is small enough to fit a sprayskirt. Personally I outgrew it after a couple years - although I still use it on rivers, winter paddles, and as a loaner. The only two issues I have with the boat is that it is not fast and it has so little rocker that it goes a little too straight and can be a challenge to turn. If you do not want to race or paddle down twisty narrow rivers these are not major concerns.
David
Eddyline’s cockpit outfitting is
– Last Updated: Apr-05-16 10:37 PM EST –
outstanding and the sliding seat makes it easy to adjust trim - as well as your own comfort in the cockpit. The Sea-Dog foot braces are solid and easily adjustable. The quality of the boat is top-notch.
You can swap the existing seat pad for their newer Infinity seat pad, which has elongated padded thigh supports. I changed to the Infinity seat pad in my Samba and find the thigh support a big plus, especially after a few hours of paddling.
The Carbonlite 2000 material is tough and always looks good. I wouldn't hesitate choosing the Eddyline over the RM.
Hopefully you'll have a chance to paddle both so you can make an informed decision.
Whistler
I’ve owned one for about 6 years and just love it. I have had everybody in my family paddle it with confidence. From teen age girls to my 60+ brother in law. Everybody is comfortable taking it out on Narraganset Bay.
I use it mostly on the Hudson River and very large reservoirs. Fish, photograph and bird watch from it.
So - I cannot speak for the Eddyline if it come to dollars and cents I would not hesitate purchasing the Whistler. It is a very well made and outfitted boat. Read the reviews on this site and with any luck take both for test rides.