Sandbanks Style 2022 Optimal Double Seater

It was apparent; I guess it wouldn’t take too long before the drop stitch construction of SUP boards would pass onto inflatable kayaks in the same way. This 2022 version is an upgrade on the 2021 kayak, and according to Sandbank’s website, it is the accessories of the complete package that have been upgraded for greater comfort and performance.

Out of the box

There is much to unpack, and for those used to unboxing iSUPs, all would seem very familiar but with one added and welcome addition for a kayak of this size. Instead of a backpack arrangement for transporting, the Optimal comes with a large wheeled flexible case – perfect for something that weighs 19kg, without the extras. The supplied paddles are a pair of four-piece feathered aluminium, which is good news for me and I guess many other kayakers who prefer touring, as the feathered version is more wind resistant as it cuts through the air.

The kayak inflates in two sections. I started with the floor section, and then the second section was the bow, stern and sidewalls. Fit the supplied skeg after you inflate; it’s easier. No problems with inflation and the supplied Bravo pump copes well. When inflating, make sure the mode lever on the rear of the pump is in the vertical position. When it becomes difficult, turn the lever 90 degrees and continue pumping until you reach the recommended 12psi for both chambers.

Sandbanks supplied us with the two-seater and, when inflated, is big on the eye but nowhere as large as what may be considered the standard type of inflatable kayak. Instead of bulbous rounded sidewalls, we have the slimmer, vertical version that the drop-stitch construction does very well. The kayak is as rigid as you would expect and, as a result, gives you plenty of confidence.

Once inflated, it’s time to fit the seats. The Optimal is the fifth inflatable kayak I have tested over the past few years, and I’ve become used to how to attach the seats. The instructions are now online to be more sustainable, and they are more than worth taking a look at. This is the one area you have to get absolutely right; otherwise, you’re in for an uncomfortable paddle, which would be a shame. It is worth spending an extra five minutes adjusting the seats to the correct angle and sitting and testing for comfort before getting on the water. The seats are more than adequate and support you very well in the upright position if you get it right.

On the water

The beauty and the adaptability of the two-seater are that you can go it alone or have company – your choice. For most of the testing, I paddled the Optimal as a single, in the rear seat and using the front seat as foot support and would advise fitting the front seat for that reason even if paddling alone. That’s important as the support is vital for your paddling stroke, and these types of kayaks were invented for the touring and recreational market; therefore, longer stretches of paddling may be the case. So my advice is to leave the front seat in even if paddling alone.

Stability is key for beginners and those new to kayaking, and the Optimum supplies it in spades with its 35-inch wide beam. Whilst it’s not impossible to capsize, you would have to put plenty of effort into it. Stability is also helped with the bow to stern rocker – this is not your typical flat-bottomed inflatable!

The Optimal sits in the water just as well as on the surface and tracks very well with or without its optional skeg. The two days that I took it out was also two of the windiest days, and in truth, I was blown around a fair bit, and we took shelter in a boatyard to do the photography. However, the wind was harsh, and it didn’t help with just myself paddling as this raised the bow and allowed the wind to push the two-seater around more than it would with the single-seater. So it was very noticeable when I seated the photographer in the front seat just how much more stable we were in the wind. The bow came into contact with the water – so much better and the kayak doing what it was built for – carrying two people in comfort.

As stated, the Optimal would be ideal as a tourer, and Sandbanks have designed the kayak with that in mind. For carrying kit, the Optimal has a 6-point bungee storage area on the bow and a 4-point version on the astern to hold dry bags, etc. There is plenty of room inside the kayak at both ends and in the centre to store equipment and supplies.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a versatile touring kayak that can deflate to store in a cupboard under the stairs or accommodation with limited room – then this could be your answer. The Optimal is well built with excellent attention to detail and does its job very well on and in the water. The drop-stitch construction makes for an exceptionally tough and hard shell with the ability to nicely shape the hull to something more than your average inflatable. It would also double up as an exceptional recreational craft to take to the seaside with the family and have a fun day out. It is highly recommended.

www.sandbanksstyle.com/products/pre-order-for-march-2022-optimal-double-seater

Single seater £749.00
Double seater: £899.00