Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look

Length: 17'

This length balances speed and maneuverability. A 17-foot hull tracks straighter than shorter boats, reducing the effort needed to maintain a course on open water. It suits day trips and weekend tours where you want efficiency without the bulk of a longer vessel. You will find it easier to paddle in a straight line compared to recreational kayaks that are under 14 feet.

Hull Weight: 57 pounds

This weight makes the kayak manageable for a single person to lift onto a roof rack or carry to the launch point. It is light enough for most adults to handle alone but heavy enough to feel stable and substantial on the water. When comparing models, this weight suggests a durable construction that does not compromise on portability for solo paddlers.

Deck Type: Sit Inside

A sit-inside design keeps your legs enclosed within the hull. This configuration offers better protection from wind and splashes than a sit-on-top style. It helps maintain warmth in cooler conditions and reduces the chance of water entering the cockpit. You will likely prefer this layout if you plan to paddle in variable weather or want a more traditional touring feel.

Width: 22 inches

This width indicates a relatively narrow hull profile. Narrower boats generally track better and move through the water with less resistance, which translates to higher speed and efficiency. However, you may need to develop better balance skills compared to wider recreational kayaks. This dimension is typical for touring kayaks designed for performance rather than maximum initial stability.

According to the listing, this Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 is a sit-inside touring kayak. The hull measures 17 feet in length and 22 inches in width. This profile supports efficient tracking on open water while maintaining enough stability for day trips. The overall height is 13.5 inches, which helps keep your center of gravity low and secure within the cockpit. The listed weight is 57 pounds. This mass makes the boat manageable for transport but substantial enough to feel stable in choppy conditions. The sit-inside deck type provides a protective barrier against wind and spray. This design choice prioritizes comfort and safety during longer paddling sessions in variable weather. The listing highlights an adjustable skeg system. This control allows you to modify the hull's tracking characteristics without changing your paddle stroke. You can adjust the skeg to compensate for wind or currents, keeping the boat on course with less effort. The Phase 3 Air Pro seating is also noted. This feature suggests a focus on ergonomic support for mid-sized paddlers. The combination of these elements creates a vessel built for performance and endurance. The finish and materials are not detailed in the provided specifications. Therefore, you should consult the manufacturer directly for information on the specific composite or plastic construction used. This approach ensures you understand the durability and maintenance requirements before purchase. The design clearly targets paddlers who value a balance between speed and practical handling.

You will find that setting up this kayak is straightforward due to its manageable dimensions. The listing specifies a weight of 57 pounds. This mass allows a single person to lift and carry the vessel without specialized equipment. You can transport it on a standard roof rack or secure it to a trailer. The 17-foot length requires adequate storage space at home. You should ensure your garage or shed has a clear area of at least 20 feet to accommodate the hull comfortably.

Everyday use centers on touring activities. The sit-inside deck design keeps you dry in choppy conditions. You enter the cockpit and secure your gear below deck. The adjustable skeg feature allows you to fine-tune tracking. You can adjust this component from a seated position to correct for wind or current. This means you do not need to stop paddling to change your course stability.

The 22-inch width provides a stable platform for paddling. You can maintain a steady stroke rhythm on calm lakes or coastal waters. The Phase 3 Air Pro seating offers support during longer sessions. You will find the ergonomic design reduces fatigue on weekend tours. The boat’s size suits mid-sized paddlers who want performance without excessive bulk. You can launch from a beach or a dock with ease. The practical design supports efficient travel over moderate distances. You benefit from a balance of speed and control. This setup suits those who prioritize reliability and ease of handling.

You should verify that your vehicle roof rack can support the 57-pound weight of this Wilderness Systems Tempest 170. The 17-foot length requires ample storage space at home or in your garage. Since this is a sit-inside touring kayak, you will need a properly fitting dry suit or spray skirt to stay dry in cooler conditions. Check that your paddles are compatible with the cockpit dimensions listed. Regular rinsing with fresh water after saltwater use is essential to preserve the hull and seating. This model sits alongside other touring options in our 1 Kayaks & Paddle Boards guide. Unlike wider recreational boards, the 22-inch width here prioritizes speed and tracking over initial stability. You should compare its 13.5-inch height against other mid-sized kayaks to ensure it meets your comfort needs. Proper maintenance extends the life of the adjustable skeg and Phase 3 Air Pro Seating. Ensure you have the necessary gear to match its touring specifications.

Check before you buy

• Confirm your roof rack supports 57 pounds
• Ensure home storage fits 17-foot length
• Verify paddle compatibility with cockpit size
• Check dry suit fit for sit-inside design
• Compare 22-inch width to stability needs

1

Wilderness Systems Tempest 170

Best for: mid-sized paddlers on day tours

Deck Type

Sit Inside

Activity Type

Touring

Length

17'

Hull Weight

57 pounds

Features

Adjustable Length

Dimensions

204 × 22 × 13.5 inches

Check price on Amazon

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. This vessel features an adjustable skeg for tracking control and Phase 3 Air Pro seating for comfort. You will find this model ideal for day trips and weekend excursions where stability and performance matter.

Pros

• 17-foot length supports efficient touring
• 57-pound hull weight allows manageable transport
• 22-inch width provides stable tracking
• Adjustable skeg improves directional control

Cons

• 57-pound weight requires effort to carry
• 22-inch width limits speed potential

Good fit if

• You plan day or weekend sea tours
• You prefer a sit-inside cockpit design
• You value adjustable skeg performance

Skip if

• You need a lightweight packable option
• You prefer a sit-on-top layout
• You want a wider stable platform

Verdict: Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Touring Kayak suits paddlers seeking a stable 17-foot vessel for coastal touring. The 57-pound weight and 22-inch width offer a balanced mix of performance and manageability for day trips.

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