Dagger Stratos 12.5

Short, Fast And High Performing Touring Kayak

Always a popular model for a wide range of paddlers, the Dagger Stratos is now available in a shorter version. The Dagger Stratos 12.5 combines all the hull features we've come to love in its' larger sibling, but this shrunk down model will be perfect for those of us who like to have a shorter kayak that we can handle more easily off the water but don't want to compromise on what it can do or where we can take it. Ultimately we want freedom and we want fun.

So this is where the Stratos 12.5 really fits the bill. With a highly manoeuvrable hull it's a very easy boat to turn making it easy to use on smaller rivers and streams while the blend of primary and secondary stability gives you bags of confidence to try out new things like edging and rolling. The Stratos 12.5 is still a fast kayak for its size so covering longer distances is perfectly possible, and the drop down skeg is there for when you're covering larger open water bodies or the conditions take a turn for the worse. The hull also still has a nicely flared bow and plenty of rocker to it so taking this little kayak to the beach for some fun punching through waves and catching the surf is certainly a possibility.

Inside the cockpit area the Dagger quality continues with adjustable footrests and thigh braces and the padded seat comes with a leg lifter backband and hip pads. The whole cockpit has a nice feel to it and with 2 sizes of kayak to choose from you're sure to get a comfortable fit.

Internal storage is via 2 hatches. Both bow and stern storage compartments have bulkheads so if you do capsize and have to get out, you're kit should still be protected. On the deck there are also bungee areas in front and behind of the cockpit for equipment you want to keep close at hand. Deck lines and carry handles front and back complete the outfitting.

If you do need a little more carrying capacity or speed, then take a look at the larger Dagger Stratos 14.5