tito27 wrote:
Wow, I saw the same video as I am looking to purchase a 2019 or maybe even 2018 outback soon. Getting wet doesn't bother me at all but having to worry about leaks and the kayaks ability to keep water out does. Especially offshore. All the updates don't mean a thing if without safety. After seeing the video I am curious to know if Hobie would consider the 2018 outback to be a better offshore kayak due to the bow design? I understand that the 2019 is an overall better package but that new bow has got me thinking twice about offshore performance vs. the 2018. Any further thoughts?
all I can say is that after owning a 2012 PA12, then a 2012 Oasis that I ran solo in the ocean many times, plus an i11s that I have also taken on the ocean off Oregon, I bought the 2019 Outback specifically to fish/crab from on saltwater (bays/tidewaters and offshore), most of the time with my dog on the back. nothing about my initial outings have toned down my excitement about this new boat.
the wind waves I have been in on a large lake are being split nicely by the bow design and the boat is fast (even with 185# + 85# on it) and the steering is tight. I like the lower sides very much, means less push from wind.
cheers, roger