Pelican vs Old Town Inflatable Kayaks: Which Brand Fits You?
We compare pelican vs old town inflatable kayak options by published specs. Analyze seating capacity, weight, and dimensions to find the best fit for your needs.
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You are comparing pelican vs old town inflatable kayak options, though these models are actually hard-shell designs. Both brands target recreational paddlers seeking stability and comfort on calm waters. The main difference lies in their capacity and form. Pelican offers a single-person sit-in kayak built for solo adventures. Old Town provides a two-person sit-on-top option designed for shared trips. Each serves distinct needs regarding space and paddling style.
Seating Capacity
1 person
2 person
Deck Type
Sit-in
Sit-on-Top
Length
10 ft
13 ft 3.96 in
Hull Weight
36 pounds
90 pounds
Width
14 inches
34 inches
Choose the first if
- You prefer a lightweight craft that is easier to transport and store alone.
- You want a sit-in design that offers more protection from splashes.
- You are paddling solo and need a compact boat for short trips.
Choose the second if
- You need to carry a passenger or extra gear for longer excursions.
- You prefer the stability and open feel of a wider sit-on-top hull.
- You want a boat with a higher weight capacity for two adults.
Verdict
The Pelican Argo 100X suits solo paddlers who prioritize lightweight portability and a protected sit-in cockpit. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is the better choice for those who need to share the ride or require the stability of a wider, longer hull. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize solo agility or shared capacity.
Pelican vs Old Town Kayak Specs
Seating Capacity
Edge: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
The Pelican Argo 100X is designed for a single paddler. Its sit-in hull accommodates one person comfortably. In contrast, the Old Town Malibu Two XL is built for two people. It features a wider 34-inch width to support a tandem setup. This makes the Old Town ideal for couples or friends sharing a trip. The Pelican remains a solo vessel. If you need to carry a passenger or gear-heavy companion, the Old Town offers the necessary space. The Pelican is strictly for individual use on the water.
Deck Type
Edge: Tie
You must choose between a sit-in and sit-on-top design. The Pelican Argo 100X uses a sit-in deck. This keeps your legs enclosed within the hull. It can feel more secure in cooler water. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a sit-on-top kayak. You sit on an open deck above the water. This design allows water to drain quickly through scupper holes. It keeps you drier in warm conditions. The sit-on-top layout also makes entry and exit easier. Your choice depends on your preference for enclosure versus open drainage.
Length and Stability
Edge: Tie
Length affects tracking and maneuverability. The Pelican Argo 100X measures 10 feet long. Its shorter length makes it easier to turn and handle in tight spaces. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is significantly longer at 13 feet 3.96 inches. This extra length helps the kayak track straighter over longer distances. However, the Old Town is also much wider at 34 inches. This width provides exceptional primary stability for two people. The Pelican is narrower at 14 inches. You get easier turning with Pelican and straighter tracking with Old Town.
Weight and Portability
Edge: Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Sit-Inside
Hull weight impacts how you transport the kayak. The Pelican Argo 100X weighs 36 pounds. This lightweight construction makes it easy for one person to lift and carry. The Old Town Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. Its heavier build reflects the larger size and dual-person capacity. Moving the Old Town requires more effort or assistance. If you plan to carry your kayak frequently to a launch site, the Pelican is the lighter option. The Old Town is better suited for vehicle transport or fixed launch locations.
Storage Solutions
Edge: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Both kayaks offer storage, but the methods differ. The Pelican Argo 100X includes a front waterproof hatch and bottle holders. This keeps gear dry and drinks secure. The Old Town Malibu Two XL features a QuickStash Dry Hatch for waterproof storage. It also has open bow and stern tankwells with bungees. These open areas allow for quick access to larger items like dry bags or fishing gear. The Pelican relies on enclosed hatches. The Old Town provides both enclosed and open storage options for flexible packing.
Choose Your Kayak By Needs
Solo paddlers wanting easy transport
Our pick: Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Sit-Inside
The Pelican Argo 100X weighs only 36 pounds. This makes it easy for one person to lift and carry. Its 10-foot length and sit-in design offer a compact profile. You get comfortable Ergoform seating and molded footrests. The Ram-X construction keeps the hull durable yet light. This model suits you if you prioritize portability and solo recreational paddling on calm waters.
Couples seeking shared recreation
Our pick: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
The Old Town Malibu Two XL accommodates two people comfortably. Its 34-inch width provides stability for tandem paddling. You get a 491-pound weight capacity, allowing gear and passengers without compromise. The sit-on-top deck features QuickStash dry hatch storage and open tankwells. Large cup holders keep drinks within reach. This kayak is ideal for shared days on the water with a partner.
Beginners preferring enclosed comfort
Our pick: Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Sit-Inside
The Pelican Argo 100X features a sit-in hull with a twin-arched multi-chine design. This hull shape increases water contact surface for enhanced stability. You feel safe and confident with the enclosed seating area. The adjustable Ergoform seat keeps you comfortable during long sessions. Molded footrests support your feet without adjustment. This design helps beginners learn balance while staying protected from splashes.
Those needing ample storage space
Our pick: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
The Old Town Malibu Two XL offers extensive storage options. You get a QuickStash dry hatch for waterproof storage. Open bow and stern tankwells with bungees secure larger gear. The stackable design allows easy transport and storage at home. Improved scupper locations drain water quickly, keeping you dry. If you need to carry significant equipment or supplies, this spacious design serves your needs best.
Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Sit-Inside
Best for: casual paddlers seeking lightweight stability
- Deck Type
- Sit-in
- Activity Type
- Recreational
- Construction
- Ram-X
- Length
- 10 ft
- Hull Weight
- 36 pounds
- Dimensions
- 28 × 14 × 120 inches
The Pelican Argo 100X is a 10-foot sit-in kayak built from Ram-X material. It weighs 36 pounds and features a twin-arched multi-chine hull for stability. The adjustable Ergoform seat and molded footrests support various body types. This recreational kayak includes a front storage hatch and bottle holders. It suits paddlers seeking a lightweight, stable option for calm waters.
- 10 ft length provides manageable maneuverability
- 36 pound weight aids transport
- Ram-X construction ensures durability
- Twin-arched hull increases stability
- Adjustable Ergoform seating system
- 10 ft length is shorter than the 13 ft 3 in competitor
- 36 pound hull weight is heavier than ultralight alternatives
- 14 inch width offers less primary stability than wider models
- You prioritize a lightweight kayak for easy carrying
- You need a stable hull for calm recreational paddling
- You want adjustable seating for comfort
- You require a longer kayak for tracking
- You prefer a sit-on-top deck design
- You need maximum cargo capacity for long trips
Verdict: Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Kayak fits casual paddlers who value lightweight transport and stability in calm waters. Its compact size makes it ideal for solo use on lakes and slow rivers.
Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Best for: two adults seeking stability
- Seating Capacity
- 2 person
- Deck Type
- Sit-on-Top
- Activity Type
- Recreational
- Length
- 13 ft 3.96 in
- Weight Capacity
- 491 lb
- Hull Weight
- 90 pounds
The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a 13-foot 3.96-inch sit-on-top kayak built for two people. It supports up to 491 pounds and weighs 90 pounds. This recreational vessel features a 34-inch width and 15-inch height for stability. You get a stackable design and waterproof storage. It suits pairs who want a stable, spacious ride for calm waters.
- 491-pound weight capacity for two paddlers
- 13-foot 3.96-inch length for stability
- QuickStash Dry Hatch for waterproof storage
- Stackable design for easy transport and storage
- 90-pound hull weight requires significant lifting effort
- 34-inch width may feel wide for narrow waterways
- You need a kayak for two adults
- You prioritize high weight capacity for gear
- You want a stable sit-on-top design
- You prefer a lightweight solo kayak
- You need a compact vessel for small cars
- You want a sit-in cockpit design
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Two XL offers a stable platform for two paddlers with ample capacity. It fits couples who value space and stability over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pelican Argo 100X 10 ft Sit-Inside | Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | – | 2 person |
| Deck Type | Sit-in | Sit-on-Top |
| Activity Type | Recreational | Recreational |
| Construction | Ram-X | – |
| Length | 10 ft | 13 ft 3.96 in |
| Weight Capacity | – | 491 lb |
| Hull Weight | 36 pounds | 90 pounds |
| Activity | Recreation | Recreation |
| Color | Vapor | Horizon |
| Dimensions | 28 × 14 × 120 inches | 150 × 34 × 15 inches |
| Weight | 36 pounds | 90 pounds |
| Size | 10' | Length 13 Ft |
| Model | KFF10P104-00 | 01.7550.0702 |
Frequently asked questions
Can you use these kayaks in the ocean?
Both models are designed for recreation on calm waters. The Pelican Argo 100X is ideal for lakes and slow rivers. Its 10-foot length provides stability in flat conditions. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is also built for recreational use. It offers a stable platform for two people. Neither is specified for rough ocean conditions. Stick to protected waters for safety.
How wide are the kayaks for stability?
Width directly impacts stability on the water. The Pelican Argo 100X measures 14 inches in width. This narrow profile aids in maneuverability for solo paddlers. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is significantly wider at 34 inches. This extra width supports two adults comfortably. It provides a stable base for tandem paddling. Choose based on your stability needs.
Which kayak is lighter to transport?
The Pelican Argo 100X is the lighter option. It weighs only 36 pounds. This makes it easy for one person to lift and carry. Its compact size fits in smaller vehicles. The Old Town Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. It is heavier and requires more effort to move. It is designed for couples who value space over portability. Transport needs dictate your choice.
What is the difference between sit-in and sit-on-top?
The Pelican Argo 100X features a sit-in design. This style keeps you enclosed within the hull. It offers a compact profile for solo use. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a sit-on-top model. This design places you on the deck above the hull. It provides ample space for two people. Sit-on-top models often feel more open and accessible.
Are these kayaks suitable for beginners?
Both brands target casual and recreational paddlers. The Pelican Argo 100X fits those seeking lightweight stability. Its design is simple for beginners to handle. The Old Town Malibu Two XL offers a stable platform for two. It is good for couples starting together. Both models prioritize comfort and ease of use. They are suitable for calm water beginners.
How much space do they have for gear?
The Pelican Argo 100X is compact at 10 feet long. It is best for solo use with minimal gear. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is 13 feet long. It offers ample capacity for two adults and their equipment. The wider 34-inch width adds to storage potential. If you need room for gear or a passenger, the Old Town model provides more space.
Can two people fit in the Pelican kayak?
No, the Pelican Argo 100X is designed for one person. Its 10-foot length and sit-in hull accommodate a single paddler. It is not built for tandem use. If you need to paddle with a partner, choose the Old Town Malibu Two XL. It is explicitly built for two people. The Old Town model provides the necessary width and length for two adults.