The Premise. Kayaking can be one of the most relaxing and even therapeutic forms of exercise for those who love spending time in the great outdoors. The peacefulness of nature on a beautiful sunny day has an amazing way of making stress melt away. What if it were possible to fold up a Kayak for easy toting and storage?
The Product. Folbot Cooper Kayak has just such an item, and is presently working on a black hull edition of their folding kayak. There are several other exciting features as well. The entire item fits in a backpack so it can be easily transported. It’s the perfect design for lakes and calm rivers, although the more experienced kayaker will find that it’s also suitable for the ocean. Set-up takes as little as 10 minutes and it comes with an owner’s manual and instructions are also available at the website, www.folbot.com. The frame is made anodized, air-craft grade aluminum, and the product also comes with deck rigging, an adjustable seat, stainless steel kneel brackets, and inflatable sponson chambers to name just a few great features.
The Pitch. The video for the $25,000 campaign is much more focused on showing than on telling. Very little detail is offered there regarding assembly or specifications of the product, but it does appear to be very lightweight and easily transportable for those who like to add cycling to their excursions.
The Perks. Backers can check out multiple tiers for this campaign. With $1800, backers get one kayak and an expected delivery of October 2014. This includes their top deck color of choice and free shipping within the continental US.
The Potential. This product is going to have some great appeal to its niche market with its apparent dependability and easy portability and assembly. It appears that beginners and veterans of kayaking alike will enjoy the product, though the weight limit of 275 pounds could prove somewhat limiting depending on a person’s size and the amount of gear that they feel is necessary for long-term excursions and a group’s or family’s preferences and needs when enjoying their wilderness adventures. However, this is more generous than many other kayaks.
When comparing Folbot to Trak Kayaks, it appears that Folbot is offering an amazing price savings. However, Trak has a higher payload (292 lbs) and may offer better control in a cross wind situation and easier navigation in general due to its hydraulically adjustable hull. Trak’s frame is made of aerospace-grade anodized aluminum and a five year warranty is offered.
