Ascend H12
Fishing in a kayak requires different types of considerations than that of in a motorboat. For instance, balance is required to avoid falling over. This is because a kayak isn't as stable as a larger water motor vehicle. The boat is thinner by comparison and closer to the water. Little things like ripples in the water can seriously affect the stability of a kayak whereas it affects a motor boat less. Kayaks, however, sometimes offer stability features that help stabilize the boat which allows the fisherman or woman to stand while in it. This can be done by offering a wider body, a longer body and more of a V-shaped hull shape.
We here at The Gear Hunt sort through different opinions of different online products in order to assist buyers with their next retail purchase. This review will take a close look at the Ascent H12. We looked at reviewers thoughts and considerations of this product in order to determine its stability, quality, and reliability. We also look at its build and construction in order to determine its durability and longevity. This is our review of the Ascent H12. We hope that it assists you with your next kayak purchase. Happy travels!
- Ultra stable
- Extra-large cockpit
- Adjustable seat and footrests
- Attractive design
- Some design issues in regards to placement of storage
- Some complaints about sizing of cup holder
ACCESSORIES
It also comes with side saddlebags which sit right next to the thighs for the purpose of protecting the sides of the legs from any wear that may be caused by the sides of the boat. Finally, it comes with a floatable paddle which is extra lightweight and floats on the water if ever lost when boating. Because this product does not offer paddle holders, this feature is especially important as losing the paddle may be easier than the boater thinks. Those who bought it appreciated the attention to details that Ascend took when creating this kayak.
MATERIALS
Polyurethane is very commonly used in this type of product for two reasons. One is that it's quite durable and waterproof. It does not absorb water but instead promotes beading and rolling off. It is also lightweight and therefore, buoyant.
Another characteristic of polyurethane is that it's durable. Though denting takes a little less effort than something like metals, it doesn't break through easily. Holes happen far less often, which keeps the boat afloat.
Those who bought the H12 appreciated the look of it. They liked how high quality it looked as a result of how it was painted and the materials used. They felt that for the price, this seemed like a far more impressive product than the price represented.
CAPACITY
The dimensions run at 12 feet long by 32 inches wide and its weight is about 76 pounds which is a little on the heavier side (though this is the case, and even with a full load boaters didn't feel too close to the water which is really positive). The amount of storage space offered is also really impressive. Reviewers really appreciated the amount of gear they were able to take aboard this kayak. Not only are there several areas that can hold gear but there is also a hard front cover latch with a nylon cover that offers additional storage. Overall, all your gear can fit in this product without weighing it down much especially when considering its super high weight capacity.
WATERPROOFING
It also provides proper sealing in order to keep water from entering the seams. Those who bought the H12 never found that water leaked in, outside of waves and some accidental splashes caused by the paddles. They also found that the drain is a nice feature that works well. They never found water entering the drain but did find water exit it which is really positive.
STYLE
As far as the design goes, there were only two real notes. There were some minor complaints about the side bags which sit right under the rails. They sit a little further forward which some reviewers felt could be moved back slightly to accommodate the boater when they are sitting. The other note is that there seem to be some issues with the cup holder which sits a little too low in order to fit a variety of cups and bottles into it. Some felt that it was nearly pointless which, of course, defeats its purpose.
Outside of some minor design issues, those who bought this appreciated its design and style. They liked the color options and the expensive look of it which is really positive and helped our overall rating.
DURABILITY
Another benefit of the H12 is because the design of the boat gives the boat a more titanium appearance and because the paint is more matte than it is high sheen, dents are less noticeable which in turn keeps it looking better longer.
Reviewers appreciated its durability and didn't find it broke down to wear and tear easily.
PRIMARY USE
It offers bow bungee tie downs in order to load and unload gear. It also allows those doing kayaking/camping trips to leave it in the water overnight for convenience. It offers a ton of additional storage for gear and equipment as well, and it offers protective saddlebags in order to keep the legs from getting uncomfortable when moving around in it. Secondary usage is definitely simply using it to lounge in on the water. The extra spacious cockpit and cup holder offers the ultimate in leisurely boating.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
PRICE
KEY FEATURES
- Seat backpack for more storage and better organization
- Extra-large cockpit to fit a variety of body types and to accommodate individual preferences
- Soft-storage saddlebags for easier mobility
- Accessory rails for even more storage space
- Foot braces are adjustable to accommodate different heights
- Bungee hold-down for security when packing and unpacking
BOTTOM LINE
Though this is the case, for the most part, reviewers raved about the Ascend H12 and really appreciated its cost value. The highlights is its spaciousness within the cockpit which ironically is some reviewers complaint. The cockpit is wide and spacious and offers an adjustable seat and footrests. This means that many different body types both tall and short, as well as wide and narrow, can fit in comfortably (for the most part).
It also provides some saddlebags in order to protect and offer comfort for those moving around a lot in it. The stability is also really impressive in that even with waves, it stayed stable and easy to stand in which is great. Finally, its weight capacity is ridiculously impressive.
If you're in the market for a reliable kayak for your fishing and other water adventures, look no further than the Ascend H12. This hybrid option, while not the most affordable on the market, surpassed our expectations and will do the same for yours, too.