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Best Ascend Kayaks & Canoes Reviewed & Rated for Quality
We have identified and will review a selection of the ten best options from Ascend on the market today. We shall look into their main features, the benefits of those features, and any of their downsides. After our evaluation, we are pretty sure you will be able to make the right purchasing decision.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
The Ascend kayaks have been designed in two main styles. They come in both sit-on-top and sit-inside models you can select from. You can be assured of an ideal experience with the product. They are available in singles and doubles depending on your taste and preference. Though the two differ, they share many similar parts.
Sit-on-top: It has backrest seats and foot support. They are also installed with foot pedals. That will come in handy if you are to spend the whole day on the water. The sit-on-top model is made such that you can slip in and out without any difficulty. The craft has been designed with a scupper hole that will allow water to be drained through and you will not get wet. If you mind being wet while cruising, we recommend this style for you.
Sit inside: This particular make has foot support, backrest seat, and foot pedals. The pedals can be adjusted according to your foot length. A cockpit is an added feature to it. The cockpit rim is used to attach your spray skirt to prevent water from getting in. This will help your kayak to remain dry while on the seas. The only downside is that you will be confined and movement will be restricted. For those who like water sports, this model is tailored to your needs. We feel it is perfect only if you know how to handle yourself once it flips. This is due to the fact that when it flips over it, will be hard to recover.
Materials
The materials used in making it are of various types. We prefer that when purchasing the product, you are aware of the multiple elements used. It will give you an idea of how to use the canoe and to protect yourself from any harmful material that might be used to build it. Here are the list of materials used to design Ascend Kayaks.
Wood: The product is made from wood and has a perfect finishing. The fiberglass and varnish used on the finishing gives it a superb look and makes it more durable. The product is also pocket-friendly. You can only use it on softer rivers and waterways.
Composite: Other materials involved are fiberglass and graphite fibers. This makes it light, making it easy to transport. The craft is also tough due to the properties in the material used to design it - making it perfect for use on rough rivers. They are easy to repair and expensive to acquire. It is a bit pricey but it is worth buying.
Rotomolded: This is a plastic that is poured into a mold, heated under extreme temperatures, and then molded into the shape of a vessel. This plastic makes them heavy and will prove to be difficult to pedal. To repair the craft is also a hard process that you will have to be comfortable with. They are best for rocky rivers and are cheap compared to other materials. The Rotomolded has been exposed to UV, making it dangerous. We suggest that you use a protective coat when using it so that you are safe.
Thermoform: An ABS sheet is heated under extreme high temperatures, then it’s molded to make the craft. The materials make the deck and hull to shine - enhancing the color. They are offered in different colors that you can select from. The vessel also has a UV lining installed to protect you. The material deteriorates over time; therefore you will have to think of recycling, repairing, or buying a new one.
Inflatables: The craft is designed from ploy-based fabrics to provide the shape and makes it tough. We assure you that it is easy to carry and store due to its size. If you have a small storage place, this is the product for you. The folding kayaks can easily be separated and joined, therefore, not occupying a lot of space. To repair the canoe is easy, as it comes with its repair kit.
Stability
We feel that balance is something we cannot debate on. The safety of the user is essential. When you enter the vessel, relying on it being steady is a vital factor so that it doesn't flip. The crafts are built to be used on either white water or flat water to ensure maximum stability. If you are a beginner, balance is a must. This is classified into two categories: primary and secondary stability.
Primary stability is the initial steadiness that is there when you first step into the boat. While secondary stability is the balance once you start pedaling. If you haven't been in one before, do not use it without a supervisor or instructor to guide you through the whole process. Here are the multiple shapes that you can choose from:
Round hull: The shape allows the boat to go at a high speed as compared to the flat shaped hull. This makes it swift and have secondary stability.
Flat body: The flat shape is perfect for a beginner. The vessel is more effective on flat waters and provides primary stability.
Chine: This kind of shape offers secondary stability. Most vessels have this particular shape making them fast and effective.
V-Shaped: For a beginner, it will be hard to train in. The shape allows the craft to move in a straight line. This is perfect for long distance paddling and gives you primary stability. If you are an expert, we recommend you use this model.
Pontoon: This brand combines both secondary and primary stability. The make is ideal for a beginner. He or she will not have difficulty learning as compared to other shapes. The downside of this product is that it is slow.
Portability
The watercraft comes in different shapes and sizes. When purchasing this item, make sure that you know how to transport it from one place to another. There are those that are heavy, while others are light. The question is how to transport it from one point to another? Will you transport it by carrying it on the roof of your vehicle? Does it fit in your car? Is a trailer needed to facilitate this? These are the factors that you will have to look into before thinking of buying one.
Accessories
When out to get an Ascend kayak, the accessories is a must check on your list. The model has to be serviced and repaired to allow it to have a longer life span. To do this, the spare parts need to be readily available. We always recommend that when purchasing the sit-on-top or sit-inside models, be aware of the supplier who will provide you with any spares required. Locate a seller or a warehouse that you can contact quickly and get the part on time. If you are to have the parts imported, then do research on how long the product will take to be delivered. We feel that if you can find the parts locally, it will be better option and save you time and money.
10 Best Ascend Kayaks
1. DC14 Canoe
Are you a career fisherman or kayaker? We advise you to place your bet on this one. It is strong, very durable, and able to handle numerous operational cycles. Its sheer strength and stability allow you to fish for numerous expeditions with relative ease. It also delivers higher value for money due to long-term reliability. Follow these explanations to know more about it.
Deluxe Seating System
A deluxe seating system stands tall among its most admirable set of features. It is generally more comfortable and soft to sit on. Courtesy of this system, you will be able to stay safe and contented for a relatively longer duration. This allows you to catch the highest possible quantity of fish at any given time. It also wards off unnecessary fatigue on your part.
Excellent Material Construction
This product is built with excellent materials. Parts include breathable nylon mesh and the polyester ripstop. With this set of fabric, you can count on the kayak to deliver to you a great deal of comfort, yet preventing the possibility of possible injuries and suffocation.
Cost and Value
Generally speaking, this product costs more than your average kayak. The main reasons why are the high-quality construction and the longer duration of service. If you buy it directly from the manufacturer, you will also get a warranty and after-sale-services. Also, you are assured of round-the-clock customer service. This safeguards you from unnecessary pains, worries, and anxieties.
2. H10 Sit-In Hybrid
Do you generally fish in smooth or rough waters? You will need a stable, durable, and reliable model of this kind. As you are about to note, this equipment is fitted with all the parts and features needed for this. Also, it is stronger than most models and is more likely to endure the roughest treatments. You are less likely to capsize or sustain significant damages in the long run.
Hybrid Tunnel-style Advanced Hull Design
Its hull stands tall among the list of its most admirable set of features. It comes in the form of the hybrid tunnel and is also advanced. Being large and spacious, the hull gives you room to stretch and operate the craft without any kind of undue hindrances. It is this comfort that makes it great in the roughest waters. This design prevents unnecessary strains and fatigue.
Multipurpose Open-deck Design
Unlike the deck of most other competitors, the one for this model is open in design. This arrangement is great in that it lets in sufficient warmth, air, and other vital parameters. Your use of this hybrid model wards off the dangers of suffocation which the users of other models generally have to contend with.
Cost and Value
Apart from handling rough waters, it is also great for overnight fishing expeditions. Further to this, it also has an impressive 400-pound overall weight capacity. Even though it costs a bit more, the kayak returns higher value for your money. In case you are dissatisfied with it, you are free to take advantage of the money back guarantee to return it.
3. 128T
Comes with Yak-Power, this model takes the hybrid fishing platform construction to another level. This unique model combines a sit-on-top fishing platform with stand-up paddleboard characteristics to offer stability whether you're fishing, standing, or paddling. The open-deck adds to the innovative design of this model with customization options and open-deck access unlike other competitive stand-up brands on the market.
Custom Crafted Tunnel-style Hull
A stable tunnel-style hull tops the list of its features. The model is large enough to accommodate your entire length and breadth. As a matter of fact, it can even enable you to stand straight while fishing. With regards to this, the kayak is a great way to minimize fatigue and expedite long-term use. Your use of this model can reduce the risk of blood clots and arthritis.
Equipped with a Yak-Powering System
The Yak-powering system provides a master controller, wiring harness and power plugs to make it easy and quick to control and add 12V devices onto your boat. You are able to connect any 12V accessories to it while on the water. No splicing or cutting needed. It will allow you to spend more time enjoying your fishing or expedition and less time wiring.
Cost and Value
By far the most outstanding aspect of this model is its ability to retain the required levels of stability. Also, it does well at night and in the roughest of waters as you may well have already noted. For these reasons, expect to pay more than for other models. It is available for purchase.
4. D10 Sit-In
Are you a career kayaker? Could it be that most of your engagement is in the water? If your answer to either question has been affirmative, this is the model for you. It should be your choice because it is designed and constructed to meet the needs of all types of kayakers. This model will hardly rot and sturdy enough to last.
Tunnel Hull Design
Standing tall among its awesome features is the tunnel hull design. The design ensures that it remains stable regardless of the applications. For this reason, it performs well whether in primary or secondary environments. Further to these, the hull manages great load carrying abilities. This makes it suitable for handling great catches with relative ease.
Removable Seating System
Setting it apart from the others is its removable seating system. As the description suggests, its seating is such that you can alter or remove it if you no longer find it viable or necessary. The benefits do not end there. This is because the system allows you to make use of the seat wherever duty may call. You can, as a matter of fact, alter the position of the seat wherever you might want it to be.
Cost and Value
The main strength of this lies in the fact that it is all-rounded. This is to say that just about every other kind of boater may find it relevant to his needs. Additionally, it can handle many other kinds of activities with relative efficiency. All factors considered, it is also backed by the other incentives that are provided for by the manufacturer.
5. 12T Sit-On-Top
Adventurous undertakings normally call for equally tough vessels. The reason is rather simple. Those activities are often too tough and impose excess stress on them. If you are that kind of an adventurer, we invite you to try this one. As you are about to see, it contains all parts and features which guarantee reliable performances.
Tough Tunnel
Coming in first is the tough tunnel. It is Roto-molded for added strength, stability, and support. This way, it is sure to withstand the harshest impacts and allow for smooth and uninterrupted performances. What’s more? It is also custom-crafted for maximum convenience while in use.
Flat-casting Deck
To cast your fish or hunting gear, you will step on a flat deck. The deck is spacious enough to allow for some unconstrained access. Also, some non-skid foam mat adorns the surface. The role of the mat is to dry your legs and feet. In the course of so doing, it maintains a clean and favorable condition of use. This lets you catch fish with the soundness of mind.
Cost and Value
The extremely tough and stable nature of this model makes it suited for those ventures that are very tough and enduring. Settling on it is a sure way of reducing the operational expenses to the absolute minimum. By opting for the ASCEND 12T, you get to enjoy the benefits of added peace of mind. Moreover, it is moderate in its price and is, therefore, relatively affordable.
6. H12 Sit-Inside
Different vessels are made for different occasions and uses. This one is made purely for expeditions and can be used at night for that matter. You can opt for this one if you plan to take part in those activities. A number of factors converge to make this a favorable choice.
Excellent Keel Design
The first is the excellent keel design. This basically features a unique and stepped bow/stern arrangement. This arrangement is further integrated into a tunnel which punches through the surf or slides smoothly into the backwaters. In so doing, it gives off added stability to you and also ensures that you manage rough waters with the utmost peace of mind. This allows you to catch as much fish as you possibly can.
Great Stern Cargo Cover
To shield your cargo while in transit, it provides a cargo cover material. Actually, the cover is expandable to impact all the cargo you might have. Other than this, it also contains a mesh which allows for smooth exchange. Your goods are shielded from getting damaged while in transit.
Cost and Value
Put all your sporting interests into great use! It is built for sports, as you have already noted. In addition to that, the entire kayak is also under warranty. This means that in the unlikely event that it sustains any damages, it is easier for you to receive a replacement or a refund.
7. FS10 Sit-In
Even though almost every other model can enable you to catch fish, not any one picked at random may yield you a great outcome. If you consider yourself a serious fisherman, we invite you to try out this one. That is because it contains many great parts, components, and features which make it perform well for this very purpose.
V-style Hull
Its hull stands very much apart from the others. That is because it is shaped in the form of the letter ‘V’ rather than the usual letter ‘U.’ With this kind of design and arrangement, expect it to achieve superior maneuverability. At the same time, it is also more stable and is simpler to keep on the right course. You may rest easy knowing that you will rarely capsize.
Dual-sized Cup Holder
While catching your fish, you will also enjoy the benefit of placing not one but two cups. The dual-sized cup holder allows you to achieve this relatively easily. It is further complemented with a multi-purpose molded dash for added safety of your gears. You get to reap some convenience while catching your fish at night.
Cost and Value
Perhaps no other competitive model under this consideration is as effective at catching fish like this one. If you want to make the best of your fish catching venture, this indeed is the one to consider. Owing to its superior construction and excellent dimensions, this kayak will cost more. However, you stand to gain more value for your money.
8. DC156 Canoe
Could it be that your search for the right model is dictated by the need to race and compete? If it is, we would recommended to choose a light and compact one. This is to minimize fatigue, improve maneuverability,and allow for ease of steering. Why not give this model a try?
Built-in Motor Transom
In its construction is a built-in motor. The role of the motor is to generate the power output necessary to propel the boat forward. Its power output is sufficiently large enough to attain higher speeds and enable you to compete favorably. It is this motor that forms the bedrock of the boat as a whole. Unlike others that require manual padding, this one solves it for you.
360° Swivel Seating
It has a seat that can swivel at a comfortable angle of 360°. This lets you scan and view the entire area you are traveling in at any given time. The ability to swivel wards off the need to crane your neck which might definitely injure you.
Cost and Value
For speed and top-notch water performance, you have no worthier option than this model. Do take hold of it and use it to practice for those races. Another benefit is that it is lighter in weight and is similarly less tedious to handle. Notwithstanding these awesome benefits, it is cheaper than most other models.
9. 10T Sit-on-Top
For long-term use, you want a vessel that can allow for both standing and sitting. This is the one to look up to. It is spacious and versatile enough to allow both types of use. It is also a great companion for long-term use and applications.
Powder-coated Steel D-rings
Catching fish is one thing; securing it is another thing altogether. The manufacturers of this model understand this fact only too well. That is why they have fitted it with powder-coated steel D-rings. These are tougher, last longer, and do a comparatively splendid job of holding your gears firmly. In so doing, they minimize fidgeting and damages.
Wide Transom
A wide transom also forms a part of this product. Being wide, it is able to accommodate multiple occupants, plenty of catches, and numerous gears. This means you will fish for longer without having to return to the shore to empty your catch every now and then. For this reason, you will enjoy the convenience of this product.
Cost and Value
If all you care for are value for money and long-term reliability, you have no better comparison than this model. As already noted, it is spacious and durable enough to use repeatedly. It comes along with a limited warranty. It is available for purchasing and shipping is fast.
10. D10T Sit-On-Top
The ASCENT D 10T is generally built for leisure and sightseeing. It is therefore a great option if you simply wish to get out into the ocean and gaze at the beauty of the open sea. It is comfortable and offers numerous features.
Ample Storage
In all, the stern is large enough to hold and transport a huge load. It can handle 36 quarts or five gallons of water. With this sufficient storage space, you will be able to handle and transport plenty of load and gears for your trips out.
Advanced Tunnel Hull Design
The hull comes in the form of a tunnel. It is subsequently larger in size and contains more space. What more? The hull is also comfortable enough to keep you safe and shielded from the harsh waves. Your safety and well-being are the most important aspects that the manufacturers put careful thought into when crafting this model.
Cost and Value
By being optimized for comfort and leisure, this indeed is the option to settle on if you simply want to stay safe and explore the open sea. Like all the kayaks and gears that are manufactured by Ascend, this one is also backed by a great warranty. If you ever sustain any damaged parts, feel free to notify the manufacturer for a refund or replacement.
