Remember the Oru Kayak, the lightweight canoe that folds into a portfolio-sized case for easy portability? It was awesome. Like all good things, of course, it can get better and that’s what they did with the Oru Bay+, an upgraded version of the original boat.
Like its predecessor, the Bay+ folds in an origami-like manner, allowing folks to quickly and easily bundle the entire boat for transport. At 32 x 28 x 13 inches folded up, not only is it compact enough that you can carry it in the boot of the car, you can hoist it over your shoulders like a tote or even carry it on your back like a knapsack.
Many of the changes incorporated on the Oru Bay+ were actually inspired by modifications that fans of the kayak made on the original boat, which they used to identify potential areas of improvement in the design. These changes include a new ergonomic chair with foam seat, along with a high-position backrest and adjustable back support, a huge departure from regular kayaks that offer limited lumbar support. There’s also a screw-out deck hatch for holding extra gear, a waterproof stowing bag, stainless steel ratchet buckles for smoother assembly, and a pair of rubber straps on the deck.
When assembled, the boat measures 12 feet long and over two feet wide, with a cockpit that measures 16 x 30 inches. It can support riders up to 300 pounds.
The Oru Bay+ is available now, priced at $1,495.