Looking Beyond the Wilderness Systems Tempest 170? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
Compare 6 touring kayaks against the Wilderness Systems Tempest 170. Review published specs including length, weight, and width to find the best fit.
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The Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 is a 17-foot sit-inside touring kayak that weighs 57 pounds. It offers a 22-inch width and adjustable skeg for tracking control. If you are looking for wilderness systems tempest 170 alternatives, you might want a different size or feature set. Some paddlers prefer lighter hulls for easier transport. Others need more width for stability or a rudder for better steering in wind. The options below were chosen because their specifications overlap with the Tempest 170 in activity type and deck style.
This list includes models from 10.5 feet to 14.5 feet long. You will find options with rudders, adjustable seats, and higher weight capacities. The selection covers single-person touring boats and one inflatable tandem model for pairs. Each choice shares the sit-inside design and touring focus of the Tempest 170. You can compare lengths, widths, and weights to find a hull that matches your specific needs. Whether you need a shorter boat for rivers or a wider platform for calm lakes, these alternatives provide distinct advantages based on their published specs.
Comparing Tempest 170 Alternatives
Perception Expression 11.5 Adjustable Seat
The Perception Expression 11.5 is significantly shorter at 11 feet 6 inches compared to the Tempest 170. It weighs 44 pounds, making it 13 pounds lighter and easier to transport. The width increases to 25.8 inches, offering more initial stability but less speed than the 22-inch wide Tempest. You sacrifice the 17-foot length and adjustable skeg for a more manageable boat for day trips. This option suits paddlers who prioritize easy handling and adjustable comfort over long-distance touring performance. It is a practical choice for those who do not need maximum tracking efficiency.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 Sit-Inside Kayak
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 is 14 feet long, which is 3 feet shorter than the Tempest 170. It weighs 53 pounds, slightly lighter than the 57-pound Tempest. The width is 25.5 inches, providing more stability than the narrower Tempest. This model includes a rudder for steering assistance, whereas the Tempest uses an adjustable skeg. You trade some speed for enhanced tracking control via the rudder. This kayak fits paddlers who need rudder assistance and adjustable seating comfort. It is ideal for touring where precise steering is preferred over the skeg-based tracking of the Tempest.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 is 14 feet 6 inches long, falling between the Tsunami 140 and the Tempest 170. It weighs 56 pounds, nearly matching the Tempest 170 weight. The width is 25.5 inches, wider than the Tempest, which enhances stability. This model lacks the adjustable skeg found on the Tempest, focusing instead on a stable hull design. You gain a wider platform for larger paddlers but lose the specific tracking adjustment of the 17-foot model. This kayak is best for those who value stability and comfort over the longer, narrower profile of the Tempest 170.
OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Tandem Kayak
The OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Kayak is designed for two people, unlike the single-person Tempest 170. It weighs 51.7 pounds, which is lighter than the Tempest. The width is 35.4 inches, significantly wider than the 22-inch Tempest, offering high stability and capacity. This inflatable model uses drop stitch construction for rigidity. You trade the rigid hull and 17-foot length for easy storage and tandem capability. This option suits pairs who value high weight capacity and portability over the speed and tracking performance of a hard-shell touring kayak like the Tempest.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Sit-Inside Kayak
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 is 12 feet 6 inches long, considerably shorter than the 17-foot Tempest 170. It weighs 51 pounds, making it 6 pounds lighter. The width is 26 inches, wider than the Tempest, which improves stability in tight spaces. This model features sealed bulkheads for gear protection, similar to the Tempest. You gain a compact hull ideal for day trips and twisting environments but lose the long-distance speed of the 17-foot boat. This kayak fits paddlers who prioritize storage and maneuverability over the extended touring range of the Tempest 170.
Wilderness Systems Aspire 105
The Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 is 10 feet 6 inches long, much shorter than the 17-foot Tempest 170. It weighs 51 pounds, slightly lighter than the Tempest. The width is 29 inches, providing substantial stability compared to the narrower Tempest. This model is categorized for recreation rather than serious touring. You sacrifice the 17-foot length and skeg for a stable, comfortable boat on calm waters. This option suits medium to larger paddlers who prioritize stability and comfort over long-distance speed and tracking efficiency. It is a practical choice for casual paddling rather than extended touring.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Best overall | Mid-sized paddlers seeking balanced touring performance | |
| 2 | Perception Expression 11.5 Adjustable Seat Best budget | Day touring paddlers seeking adjustable comfort | |
| 3 | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 Sit-Inside Kayak Best premium | Touring paddlers needing rudder assistance | |
| 4 | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak Also great | larger paddlers seeking stability | |
| 5 | OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Tandem Kayak Best 2-person | Tandem touring with high weight capacity | |
| 6 | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Sit-Inside Kayak Best mango | day trips in tight, twisting environments | |
| 7 | Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 Best recreation | stable recreational paddling |
Wilderness Systems Tempest 170
Best for: Mid-sized paddlers seeking balanced touring performance
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Touring
- Length
- 17'
- Hull Weight
- 57 pounds
- Features
- Adjustable Length
- Dimensions
- 204 × 22 × 13.5 inches
The Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 is a 17-foot sit-inside touring kayak designed for mid-sized paddlers. It weighs 57 pounds and measures 22 inches wide. The boat features an adjustable skeg and Phase 3 Air Pro seating. This setup supports day and weekend touring trips. You get a stable platform for open water. The length provides speed while the width offers control. It suits those seeking a balanced touring experience.
- 17-foot length aids touring speed and tracking
- 22-inch width provides stable platform for paddlers
- 57-pound hull weight allows manageable transport
- Adjustable skeg improves steering in wind or current
- 57-pound hull weight is heavier than lighter touring options
- 22-inch width offers less primary stability than wider recreational kayaks
- You want a dedicated touring kayak for day trips
- You prefer a sit-inside design for protection
- You need an adjustable skeg for varying conditions
- You need a lightweight boat for frequent carrying
- You prefer a sit-on-top design for easy entry
- You require a wide beam for maximum stability
Verdict: Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Touring Kayak fits paddlers who want a balanced touring boat with adjustable tracking. It suits those prioritizing a sit-inside cockpit and manageable weight for weekend trips.
Perception Expression 11.5 Adjustable Seat
Best for: Day touring paddlers seeking adjustable comfort
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Light Touring
- Length
- 11' 6"
- Hull Weight
- 44 lbs
- Features
- Adjustable Length
- Dimensions
- 139 × 25.8 × 14.5 inches
The Perception Expression 11.5 is a light touring sit-inside kayak measuring 11 feet 6 inches long and weighing 44 pounds. It features an adjustable zone seating system and a 25.8-inch width for stability. This model suits paddlers seeking a manageable vessel for day trips. Its rotational molding construction offers durability, while the large cockpit design enhances comfort during extended use.
- Adjustable zone seating system for customized fit
- Lightweight 44-pound hull weight for easy handling
- 11 feet 6 inches length aids efficiency
- 25.8-inch width provides stable balance
- Leak-proof one-piece construction prevents water ingress
- 11 feet 6 inches length is shorter than the 140-inch Tsunami 140
- 44-pound weight is higher than the 33-pound Tsunami 125
- 25.8-inch width is narrower than the 30-inch Tsunami 145
- You want a stable kayak with an adjustable seat
- You prefer a lightweight vessel for car top transport
- You need a durable kayak for calm to moderate waters
- You require a longer hull for tracking
- You need a lighter kayak under 40 pounds
- You prefer a wider platform for maximum stability
Verdict: Perception Expression 11.5 Sit-Inside Kayak fits paddlers who value adjustable comfort and manageable weight for day touring. It offers a balanced profile for those prioritizing stability and ease of transport over maximum length.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 Sit-Inside Kayak
Best for: Touring paddlers needing rudder assistance
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Touring
- Length
- 14 ft
- Hull Weight
- 53 pounds
- Features
- Rudder
- Dimensions
- 168 × 25.5 × 14 inches
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 is a 14 ft sit-inside touring kayak designed for speed and stability. Weighing 53 pounds with a 25.5 inch width, it offers a balanced hull for varied conditions. It includes a rudder for tracking and adjustable Keepers XL foot rests. The comfortable seat and deck storage options make it suitable for longer paddling sessions where gear management matters.
- 14 ft length aids in tracking and speed
- Includes a rudder for improved steering control
- Adjustable Keepers XL foot rests fit different sizes
- 53 lb hull weight allows for manageable transport
- 53 pound weight is heavier than lighter touring options
- 25.5 inch width offers less primary stability than wider recreational models
- Limited to two color variations in the current lineup
- You want a rudder for better tracking on open water
- You need adjustable foot braces for a secure fit
- You prefer a 14 ft hull for efficient paddling
- You require a lightweight packable inflatable for travel
- You prefer a wider hull for maximum stability
- You need multiple color choices for personalization
Verdict: Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 suits paddlers who value tracking accuracy and adjustable comfort over ultralight portability. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing rudder-assisted steering in a sit-inside touring design.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak
Best for: larger paddlers seeking stability
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Touring
- Length
- 14' 6"
- Hull Weight
- 56 pounds
- Dimensions
- 174 × 25.5 × 15 inches
- Weight
- 56 pounds
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 is a sit-inside touring kayak measuring 14 feet 6 inches long and 25.5 inches wide. Weighing 56 pounds, it offers a stable platform for larger paddlers. The design includes adjustable Slidelock XL foot rests and padded thigh braces for a secure fit. Two mesh gear pockets on the deck provide accessible storage for small items during your trips.
- 14' 6" length provides touring speed
- 25.5-inch width adds stability
- Adjustable Slidelock XL foot rests
- Padded thigh braces for control
- Two mesh deck gear pockets
- 56-pound hull weight is heavy
- 25.5-inch width limits speed potential
- You are a larger paddler needing adjustable foot rests
- You want a stable sit-inside touring kayak
- You need accessible deck storage for small items
- You prioritize lightweight portability under 50 pounds
- You prefer a narrower hull for maximum speed
- You want a sit-on-top design
Verdict: Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak fits larger paddlers who value stability and adjustable comfort over lightweight transport. It serves as a reliable touring option for those who do not mind a heavier hull.
OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Tandem Kayak
Best for: Tandem touring with high weight capacity
- Seating Capacity
- 2-Person, Tandem
- Deck Type
- Sit-in
- Activity Type
- Touring
- Construction
- Inflatable, Drop-Stitch Floor, Vinyl
- Length
- 13.7 ft
- Weight Capacity
- 500 pounds
The OCEANBROAD 13.7ft inflatable kayak offers a 500-pound weight capacity and a 51.7-pound hull weight. Its drop-stitch floor provides rigidity comparable to hard-shell touring kayaks. This 2-person sit-in model suits groups seeking transportable gear. You get a stable platform for coastal or lake touring without the bulk of a traditional vessel.
- 500-pound weight capacity for heavy loads
- Drop-stitch floor for rigid, flat surface
- 3-chamber construction for added safety
- Folds into a carry bag for transport
- 51.7-pound hull weight is heavy for carrying
- 13.7-foot length is shorter than the 17-foot Tempest 170
- Vinyl construction is less durable than rotomolded plastic
- You need to transport gear in a car trunk
- You want a stable platform for two paddlers
- You prefer inflatable convenience for storage
- You prioritize lightweight gear for hiking
- You need a rigid hull for speed
- You require a longer vessel for open water
Verdict: OCEANBROAD 13.7ft Inflatable Kayak fits pairs who value high capacity and easy storage over speed and lightweight handling.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Sit-Inside Kayak
Best for: day trips in tight, twisting environments
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Touring
- Length
- 12' 9"
- Weight Capacity
- 300 lbs
- Hull Weight
- 51 lbs
- Color
- Mango
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 is a sit-inside touring kayak designed for medium to large paddlers. It measures 12 feet 9 inches long with a 26-inch width. The hull weighs 51 pounds and supports up to 300 pounds. This model features the Phase 3 AirPro Tour Seat and Slidelock XL foot rests. It includes two storage hatches and sealed bulkheads for water-resistant gear storage. It suits day trips in tight, twisting environments.
- Phase 3 AirPro Tour Seat with adjustable forward and back trimming
- Slidelock XL foot rests with adjustable padded thigh braces
- Two storage hatches with sealed bulkheads for buoyancy and safety
- 300-pound weight capacity for medium to large paddlers
- 51-pound hull weight is heavier than lighter touring options
- 12-foot 9-inch length offers less speed than longer 14-foot models
- 26-inch width provides less stability than wider recreational kayaks
- You need a kayak for medium to large paddlers
- You paddle in tight, twisting environments
- You want sealed bulkheads for water-resistant storage
- You prefer a lighter kayak under 40 pounds
- You require a longer hull for straight-line speed
- You need a sit-on-top design for easy re-entry
Verdict: Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Mango suits paddlers who prioritize comfort and storage in a compact touring hull. Its adjustable seating and sealed bulkheads make it ideal for day trips where gear protection matters.
Wilderness Systems Aspire 105
Best for: stable recreational paddling
- Deck Type
- Sit-Inside
- Activity Type
- Recreational
- Length
- 10' 6"
- Weight Capacity
- 400 lbs.
- Hull Weight
- 48 lbs.
- Features
- Adjustable Length
The Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 is a sit-inside recreational kayak measuring 10 feet 6 inches long. It supports paddlers up to 400 pounds with a hull weight of 48 pounds. This model features an adjustable Phase 3 Air Pro seat and a Trotta skeg for tracking. It suits medium to larger paddlers seeking stability on flat or slow-moving water.
- 400-pound weight capacity
- 10 feet 6 inches length
- Adjustable Phase 3 Air Pro seat
- Trotta skeg for course correction
- 10 feet 6 inches length is shorter than the 125 to 170 inch models in this list
- 29 inches width offers less primary stability than wider touring kayaks
- You are a medium to larger sized paddler
- You need a stable kayak for flat water
- You want adjustable seating comfort
- You require a long distance touring kayak
- You prefer a sit-on-top design
- You need a lightweight packable inflatable
Verdict: The Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 fits medium to larger paddlers who prioritize comfort and stability on calm waters over long-distance speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 | Perception Expression 11.5 Adjustable Seat | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 Sit-Inside Kayak | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak | OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Tandem Kayak | Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Sit-Inside Kayak | Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | – | – | – | – | 2-Person, Tandem | – | – |
| Deck Type | Sit Inside | Sit Inside | Sit Inside | Sit Inside | Sit-in | Sit Inside | Sit-Inside |
| Activity Type | Touring | Light Touring | Touring | Touring | Touring | Touring | Recreational |
| Construction | – | – | – | – | Inflatable, Drop-Stitch Floor, Vinyl | – | – |
| Length | 17' | 11' 6" | 14 ft | 14' 6" | 13.7 ft | 12' 9" | 10' 6" |
| Weight Capacity | – | – | – | – | 500 pounds | 300 lbs | 400 lbs. |
| Hull Weight | 57 pounds | 44 lbs | 53 pounds | 56 pounds | 51.7 pounds | 51 lbs | 48 lbs. |
| Activity | Touring | Touring | Touring | Touring | Touring | Touring | Recreation |
| Features | Adjustable Length | Adjustable Length | Rudder | – | Drop Stitch | – | Adjustable Length |
| Included Accessories | – | – | – | – | Seat | – | – |
| Target Audience | – | – | – | – | Adults | – | – |
| Color | Breeze Blue | Mystic | Purple Dawn | Purple Dawn | Blue | Mango | Galaxy |
| Kayak Type | – | – | – | – | Inflatable | – | – |
| Dimensions | 204 × 22 × 13.5 inches | 139 × 25.8 × 14.5 inches | 168 × 25.5 × 14 inches | 174 × 25.5 × 15 inches | 166 × 35.4 × 2.95 inches | 153 × 26 × 15 inches | 126 × 29 × 15.5 inches |
| Weight | 57 pounds | 44 pounds | 53 pounds | 56 pounds | 51.7 pounds | 51 pounds | 51 pounds |
| Size | 17' | 11'6" | 14' | 14' 6" | 13.7ft / 4.2m (2-person) | 12'6" | 10'6" |
| Model | 9720077179 | 9330545204 | 9720418200 | 9720458200 | – | 9720258054 | 9730325142 |
Frequently asked questions
Is there a shorter touring kayak alternative to the Tempest 170?
Yes, the Perception Expression 11.5 offers a significantly shorter profile at 11 feet 6 inches. It weighs only 44 pounds, which is 13 pounds less than the Tempest 170. This makes it easier to transport and handle for day touring paddlers who prioritize manageable weight over maximum length.
Which alternative provides a rudder for better tracking?
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 includes a rudder for steering assistance. It measures 14 feet long and weighs 53 pounds. This feature suits touring paddlers who value tracking accuracy and adjustable comfort over ultralight portability, providing reliable steering in a sit-inside touring design.
Can I find a tandem kayak alternative for two people?
The OCEANBROAD 13.7 ft Inflatable Tandem Kayak supports two people. It features a 35.4-inch width and a 51.7-pound weight. This option fits pairs who value high capacity and easy storage over speed and lightweight handling, making it a practical choice for shared touring adventures.
What is a good option for larger paddlers needing stability?
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 Touring Kayak fits larger paddlers who value stability. It measures 14 feet 6 inches long with a 25.5-inch width. This reliable touring option serves those who do not mind a heavier hull at 56 pounds in exchange for enhanced comfort and steadiness.
Is there a more compact touring kayak for tight spaces?
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 Sit-Inside Kayak is a compact touring hull. It measures 12 feet 6 inches long and weighs 51 pounds. Its adjustable seating and sealed bulkheads make it ideal for day trips where gear protection matters in tight, twisting environments.
Which alternative is best for stable recreational paddling?
The Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 is designed for stable recreational paddling. It measures 10 feet 6 inches long with a wide 29-inch beam. This kayak fits medium to larger paddlers who prioritize comfort and stability on calm waters over long-distance speed, weighing 51 pounds.