Hurricane kayaks appreciated the efforts others had made in thermo-forming kayaks (which gives paddlers lighter and stiffer kayaks) but wondered if it could be taken to a higher level.

The answer was found in a small factory in North Carolina that had been quietly thermo-forming ultra high quality products for 20 years, and had earned the reputation for being cutting edge with new materials and equipment.

Now we could take our dreams and turn them into the kayaks that paddlers really wanted at a fraction of the price of composites. With a brand new company we have no rules in stone and can really tap in and listen to what you paddlers are really saying. And you are saying loud and clear that you want lighter, better handling kayaks that do not paddle like barges.

Santee 100

Sadly many first time paddlers didn’t think about weight when they bought their first kayak. After you’ve lugged a 50-lbs kayak down to the water a few times, you’ll wish you’d bought a Santee 100. At 33 lbs, the Santee 100 is extraordinarily light, easy to carry and launch. Once you’re launched, you’re in one of the most stable and efficient 10-ft kayaks ever built. The front and rear bulkheads are unheard of in a kayak of this length. They provide superior buoyancy, which is a very desirable safety feature. The below deck storage provides lots of room to carry gear for your adventures. The strong keel lines of the Santee 100 hull help keep it tracking like a longer kayak, but without the extra weight and transport issues. Get ready for some envious glances, since people will think your Santee 100 is a composite kayak costing far more than you paid. If you want the ultimate lightweight kayak, check out the Santee 100 LT at a gossamer 31 lbs!

Santee 116

There are certain products in this world that just flat “nail it,” when it comes to meeting the public’s expectations. The Santee 116 is a rare find in recreational kayaks, as it offers outstanding stability without sacrificing the ability to turn easily and track well. The Santee 116 is the kayak our competition hates to see you test ride at demos. After the first paddle strokes, they know you’ll be amazed with our Santee 116. The Swede-form design, coupled with the crisp entry lines of the Santee 116 bow, make this kayak more efficient than other kayaks in its class. This means you’ll cruise the rivers, backwaters and lakes with less effort, while still feeling stable and comfortable. The Santee 116 has front and rear hatches with sealed bulkheads for superior floatation and convenient storage for your day tripping. We consider the Santee 116 to be the true “sport utility” boat in our fleet. It is a pleasure to paddle for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Santee 116 Sport

“I’d buy four of your Santee 116, if you’d just make the cockpit opening longer so we can get our birding gear stowed in easily,” wrote JP. We did and he did. The Santee 116 Sport still handles like the incredible 116, but it is 17 inches longer in the opening. You can put fly rod tubes, tripods and other outdoor tools of play in the cockpit with you. Even the right dog can ride in there too. We’re waiting for pictures of your cats. The 116 Sport still has a rear Hurricane hatch with watertight bulkhead, and it weighs in at a scant 35 lbs. So go ahead . . . take that extra cooler or dry box with you and make a day of it.

Santee Expedition 128 

Our most recent addition to the Hurricane lineup delivers the definitive tracking and efficient glide of a longer touring kayak, combined with the stability, versatility and on demand maneuverability of our recreational kayaks. The new 128 features abundant bow and stern storage, ample deck rigging, and a comfy seat with many options for adjustability. The new Expedition 128 is perfect for day trips, and short overnighters. 

Santee 140 T

Sooner or later you’ll end up having to move your tandem kayak by yourself. With other tandems, you’ll find that it’s a high risk gamble to hoist one over your head. At an unheard of weight of only 52 lbs, our Santee 140 T is lighter than most singles! When you dip your paddles in for your first strokes, you’ll be delighted by how easily the Santee 140 T glides away from shore. The hull has been carefully optimized for the perfect blend of stability and performance, so you can truly enjoy your time together out on the water. For those times when you may be out solo, the Santee 140 T can be efficiently paddled alone. Tandem kayaks have gotten a bad rap, because until the Santee 140 T, they were a chore to lift and paddle. Looking for something the family will love? Once you try kayaking in our tandem, you’ve got a lifetime sport ahead of you.

Phoenix 130

The sporty Phoenix 130 evolved from our popular 140 design to provide even grater versatility. The Phoenix 130 is light and easy to handle off the water and is ready to be geared up for fishing and light touring. Deck attachment points and bungee tie downs give you multiple options to accessorize or store your gear. Available options include rudder and fishing package.

Tampico 140 S

The original Tampico 140 S is a great Kayak. Nonetheless, we recognized an opportunity to make it even better. We moved the cockpit slightly forward to create a more balanced kayak – on and off the water. The end result is a better paddling experience and a kayak which is easier to carry and car-top. We also decided to broaden the audience for whom the Tampico 140 S may be a good fit; we added a small amount of volume to the deck, just forward of the cockpit. The Tampico 140 S will now comfortably accommodate smaller paddlers (120 lbs) to slightly large paddlers up to about 185 lbs. The Tampico 140 S features performance outfitting which includes an ergonomically contoured seat, thigh braces, and the Sonic back-band from Surf to Summit; all combined for precise control and performance. Additionally – a larger storage hatch replaces the 10” round hatch for the easier stowage of gear, such as tents, deluxe Therma-rest pads, espresso machines.....
The Tampico 140 S with its integrated keel line doles out superior tracking and yet retains a surprising level of maneuverability. The subtle though apparent sheer line of the Tampico 140 S permits confident navigation through heavy chop. The Tampico 140 S is a great kayak whether you are in Pamlico Sound for the day or Puget Sound for several days. 

Tampico 140 L 

The Tampico 140 L features the same hull and performance characteristics as the Tampico 140 S, with increased volume in the deck to accommodate larger kayakers (185-225 lbs). The Tampico 140 L offers a more comfort oriented outfitting package, for those kayakers who prefer comfort over a more tailored fit. 

Tracer 165

For less than many heavy roto-molded touring boats, you can now own one of the most seaworthy designs on the water. The Tracer 165 is a sleek, fast and comfortable kayak that sets a new standard in the industry. Weighing a scant 48 lbs, this 16-ft, 5-in beauty is the perfect size for most paddler’s 2 to 4 day trips. For day trips, the Tracer 165 tracks and carves with precision and grace. It is a true joy to paddle. We’ve given the cockpit a little extra length to make your entry and exit easier, while still allowing for a solid fit for edging and bracing. The front and rear Hurricane hatches are mated with our watertight bulkheads for efficient cargo space. The Tracer 165 comes expedition ready with a drop skeg installed. You’ll be pleased at the wonderful dance moves on water you can easily master with your Tracer 165. It has become a favorite with guides and instructors all over North America. 

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