Aquaglide Chinook 120 Inflatable Kayak Review

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The Aquaglide Chinook 120 Inflatable Kayak is a versatile recreational kayak designed for paddlers who value comfort, stability, and portability. With space to accommodate up to two adults and a child, this model is ideal for families, couples, or friends looking to enjoy calm lakes, gentle rivers, and sheltered coastal waters. In this review, we will explore its key features, build quality, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right kayak for your next outing.

Key Features of the Aquaglide Chinook 120

The Chinook 120 combines practical design with inflatable convenience. Here are its main specifications:

Length: 12 ft 2 in
Width: 37 in
Weight: 28 lbs
Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
Material: 600-denier hex ripstop polyester with PVC bladders
Type: Inflatable tandem kayak

Its generous capacity and stable build make it a great choice for leisurely paddles with family or friends.

Comfort and Ergonomic Design

One of the standout aspects of the Aquaglide Chinook 120 is its focus on comfort. The kayak features adjustable, cushioned seats with supportive high backs that can be positioned for one or two paddlers. The open cockpit design allows for easy entry and exit, while the spacious layout offers plenty of legroom and space for a small child or pet.

The kayak’s multiple footrest positions accommodate paddlers of various heights, ensuring a more personalized fit and comfortable paddling experience over extended trips.

Durable Construction for Longevity

Built with a rugged 600-denier hex ripstop polyester shell and reinforced PVC bladders, the Chinook 120 is made to handle the demands of recreational paddling. The abrasion-resistant outer cover helps protect against scrapes, while the materials are designed to withstand UV exposure for better longevity.

Although inflatable, the kayak’s construction is solid, and it includes Boston valves for quick inflation and deflation without sacrificing air retention.

Stability and Performance on the Water

The Aquaglide Chinook 120 is known for its stability, thanks to its wide beam and flat hull design. This makes it especially beginner-friendly and ideal for casual paddling, fishing, or exploring with kids and pets.

While its focus is not on speed, it tracks reasonably well for an inflatable tandem kayak, aided by its removable tracking fin. It performs best in calm waters, offering a steady and predictable ride.

Ample Storage Solutions

The Chinook 120 offers thoughtful storage features for day trips and light touring:

Rear Deck Bungee System: Perfect for securing dry bags, jackets, or a cooler.
Splash Guards: Located at the bow and stern to help keep gear drier.
Integrated Pockets: Mesh storage areas on the seats keep small essentials close at hand.

These options allow paddlers to bring along the gear they need without cluttering the seating area.

Easy Handling and Portability

At 28 lbs, the Aquaglide Chinook 120 is lightweight and easy to carry. It packs into a convenient duffel-style storage bag for transport and can be stowed in a car trunk or closet when not in use.

Inflation takes only a few minutes with a suitable pump, and the included handles make it easy to launch or carry to and from the water.

Pros and Cons of the Aquaglide Chinook 120

Pros:

Lightweight and highly portable
Spacious design for two adults and a child or pet
Excellent stability for beginners and casual paddlers
Comfortable, adjustable seating with high backs
Durable materials with UV and abrasion resistance

Cons:

Not as fast or agile as narrower kayaks
Best suited for calm waters; not designed for rough conditions
Requires drying before storage to prevent mildew

Ideal for Recreational Paddlers

The Aquaglide Chinook 120 is an excellent option for families, couples, or friends looking for a stable, comfortable, and easy-to-transport kayak. Its roomy layout, generous weight capacity, and user-friendly design make it ideal for relaxed adventures, short tours, and fun days on the water.

It is not designed for competitive paddling or challenging water conditions, but for its intended purpose, it delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Aquaglide Chinook 120

In summary, the Aquaglide Chinook 120 Inflatable Kayak offers a winning combination of portability, comfort, and stability for recreational use. Its spacious seating arrangement, thoughtful storage, and durable construction make it a dependable choice for casual paddling trips with family or friends.

For those who want an easy-to-use inflatable kayak that can handle a variety of calm-water adventures, the Chinook 120 is a practical and rewarding investment.