Wilderness Tempest 170 Review (2026)
The Wilderness Tempest 170 is a high-performance touring kayak designed for experienced paddlers who want a responsive, versatile, and stable kayak for long-distance touring and exploration. Whether you’re navigating coastal waters, paddling through rivers, or tackling open lakes, the Tempest 170 is engineered to provide superior speed, tracking, and maneuverability. With a sleek design, ample storage, and a comfortable cockpit, the Tempest 170 delivers a performance-oriented paddling experience for those who demand more from their kayak. In this review, we’ll cover its key features, performance, pros and cons, and overall value.
Key Features of the Wilderness Tempest 170 Kayak
- Dimensions: 17′ L × 23″ W × 13.5″ H
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Capacity: Holds up to 375 lbs
- Material: Rotomolded polyethylene construction for durability and strength
- Seat: Adjustable Phase 3® AirPro seat with back support and thigh cushioning for long paddles
- Storage: Front and rear hatches, day hatch, and additional compartments for gear
- Hull Design: Progressive Touring Hull for excellent speed, stability, and tracking
- Rudder System: Optional rudder for enhanced control and handling in challenging conditions
- Maximum Speed: 5-6 mph
- Warranty: Limited manufacturer warranty
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Progressive Touring Hull ensures excellent speed, stability, and tracking for efficient touring
- Lightweight design (55 lbs) makes it easier to transport and handle, even for solo paddlers
- Comfortable Phase 3® AirPro seat with back support and adjustable thigh support for all-day comfort
- Multiple storage options, including front and rear hatches and a day hatch for easy gear access
- Optional rudder system provides superior control, especially in strong winds or currents
- Designed for long-distance touring, suitable for lakes, rivers, and coastal environments
- Rotomolded polyethylene construction offers durability and impact resistance
- High weight capacity of 375 lbs allows for ample gear storage
- Ideal for advanced paddlers seeking a performance-oriented kayak
Cons:
- At 55 lbs, the kayak may still be heavy for smaller paddlers or those looking for a lighter option
- The sleek design and high performance may feel less stable for beginners
- Optional rudder system adds to the overall cost of the kayak
- Storage capacity may be less compared to larger kayaks designed for extended expeditions
- The design focuses on speed and performance, which may sacrifice some maneuverability in tight spaces
Ideal for Advanced Paddlers and Touring Enthusiasts
The Wilderness Tempest 170 is built for advanced paddlers who want a high-performance kayak for serious touring adventures. With its sleek design, efficient hull, and ample storage, it’s an ideal choice for those who plan to tackle long-distance paddles or explore coastal waters. Its responsive handling, tracking, and speed make it perfect for paddlers who are looking for a kayak that can keep up with their pace. While it may not be the best choice for beginners or casual paddlers, the Tempest 170 offers everything an experienced paddler needs to take their paddling to the next level.
Performance and Paddling Experience
The Tempest 170 excels in performance, offering a streamlined design that ensures excellent tracking and speed. The Progressive Touring Hull provides superior stability, making it ideal for long-distance paddles in calm and choppy waters. Its design allows for smooth gliding, and it responds well to turns, making it great for navigating various conditions. The optional rudder system further enhances its handling, especially when facing strong winds or currents. Whether you’re on open water or tackling coastal areas, the Tempest 170 provides a responsive and efficient paddling experience that’s perfect for touring and exploration.
Easy to Use and Maintain
The Wilderness Tempest 170 is designed with touring paddlers in mind, offering a comfortable and adjustable Phase 3® AirPro seat that provides ample support for long paddles. The kayak’s cockpit is spacious, allowing for easy entry and exit. It also offers multiple storage compartments for essential gear, including the front and rear hatches and a day hatch for quick access. Maintenance is minimal—simply rinse the kayak after use, especially in saltwater, and check for wear on the rudder or any other moving parts. The polyethylene construction ensures that the kayak will last with minimal upkeep, making it an easy-to-maintain option for avid paddlers.
Durability and Build Quality
The Wilderness Tempest 170 is built to withstand the rigors of long-distance touring and exploration. Constructed with high-density rotomolded polyethylene, this kayak is designed for durability and impact resistance. It resists abrasions, UV damage, and the wear-and-tear that comes with regular use in various water conditions. Whether you’re paddling through rocky rivers, coastal waters, or across expansive lakes, the Tempest 170 is built to perform reliably over time. Its solid construction ensures that it will stand up to tough conditions, making it a long-term investment for experienced paddlers.
Portability and Storage
Weighing 55 lbs, the Wilderness Tempest 170 is relatively lightweight for a touring kayak, which makes it more manageable for solo transport compared to many larger kayaks. However, it may still be difficult for smaller paddlers to handle solo, so a kayak cart or assistance may be needed for easier transport. The kayak offers a good amount of storage for long-distance tours, with front and rear hatches for larger items, and a day hatch for smaller items that need quick access. While its storage capacity is not as expansive as larger touring kayaks, it’s still more than enough for multi-day excursions or weekend trips.
Final Thoughts on the Wilderness Tempest 170 Kayak
The Wilderness Tempest 170 is an outstanding choice for advanced paddlers and touring enthusiasts who demand a high-performance, durable, and comfortable kayak for long-distance paddling. Its excellent tracking, stability, and speed make it an ideal choice for those exploring lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. While it may not be the best option for beginners or casual paddlers, the Tempest 170 offers exceptional performance and reliability for those who take their kayaking seriously. If you’re looking for a kayak that can handle a variety of water conditions and provide comfort over long distances, the Wilderness Tempest 170 is an excellent option.