Product Testing by Frenchie La Chance of Western Adventures
Testing of the PALMICO 160 Kayak -
Western Adventures has gotten all wet with this test! I have been taking Adventures to Baja and clients have been bringing their kayaks with them. I have used their kayaks and spent the last year deciding what the best kayak would be for me. I found “Wilderness Systems” to be the most respected and liked kayaks. They have the complete line of different kayaks for all uses and abilities. I decided on the Pamlico 160 as it will meet my needs as a recreational type of kayak. The requirements are; easy to use in fresh and salt water, quality construction, fits one to two people and a dog, useable for day or overnight trips. The “Wilderness Systems” Pamlico 160 met the requirements and surpassed my expectations. I decided that the rotomolded (Polyethylene) version was the most durable for the way I am using it. The fiberglass or Kevlar are lighter and would be best suited for a different use then the way I plan on using the kayak. I also got the rudder for when the winds make paddling a bit more challenging. The paddles that I selected were not the top of the line as I do not feel that my need for that style will make a difference to me. The touring Kayaks and paddles do make a difference for the more extreme user. I did like their spray skirt since it will adjust to 1, 2 or 2+ people easily.
Be sure and watch as the year goes along and I count the times I end up in the drink. Right now it is only once, but I am sure I will add to that.