Wilderness Systems or Old Town? Inflatable Kayaks Compared in 2026
Compare Wilderness Systems vs Old Town inflatable kayak models. We analyze the Pungo 120 and Malibu Two XL hard-shell specs for calm water paddling.
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This comparison looks at the wilderness systems vs old town inflatable kayak debate, though both models here are actually hard-shell kayaks. You are choosing between the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 and the Old Town Malibu Two XL. Both are recreational kayaks designed for calm waters. The main difference lies in their design: one is a single-person sit-inside kayak, while the other is a two-person sit-on-top. This affects capacity, storage, and how you paddle.
Deck Type
Sit Inside
Sit-on-Top
Seating Capacity
1 person
2 person
Length
12 ft
13 ft 3.96 in
Weight
49 pounds
90 pounds
Width
29 inches
34 inches
Choose the first if
- You want a lighter kayak that is easier to transport alone.
- You prefer staying dry in cooler water with a sit-inside design.
- You are a single paddler looking for efficient tracking.
Choose the second if
- You need to carry a second person or extra gear.
- You want open storage space with tankwells and bungees.
- You prefer the stability and ease of getting in and out of a sit-on-top.
Verdict
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is the better choice for solo paddlers who prioritize portability and speed. The Old Town Malibu Two XL suits those who need to share the experience or carry more equipment. Your decision depends on whether you value ease of transport or extra capacity.
Pungo 120 vs Malibu Two XL
Deck Type
Edge: Tie
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a sit-inside kayak. This design keeps you enclosed within the hull, which can offer better protection from wind and spray. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a sit-on-top model. This open deck style allows you to sit on the top surface. Sit-on-top kayaks typically drain water through scupper holes, keeping the deck dry. The choice depends on your preference for enclosure versus open-air freedom and ease of entry and exit.
Seating Capacity
Edge: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Capacity is a major differentiator between these two models. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is designed for two people. It features two seats and overlapping footwells to accommodate a center seated paddler comfortably. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a single-person kayak. It includes adjustable foot rests and thigh pads for one paddler. If you need to carry a passenger or gear, the Old Town model is the only viable option here. The Wilderness Systems boat is strictly for solo use.
Length
Edge: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Length affects tracking and speed on the water. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 measures 12 feet in length. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is longer at 13 feet 3.96 inches. The additional length of the Old Town model generally aids in straight-line tracking and can improve efficiency over long distances. However, the shorter Wilderness Systems kayak may be slightly more maneuverable in tight spaces. Both lengths are suitable for recreational paddling on lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Weight
Edge: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
Hull weight impacts transport and storage convenience. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 weighs 49 pounds. This makes it significantly lighter and easier for one person to lift and carry. The Old Town Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. This heavier weight reflects its larger size and two-person construction. Carrying the Old Town model may require more effort or assistance. If you frequently carry your kayak over long distances to the launch site, the lighter Wilderness Systems option is more practical.
Width
Edge: Tie
Width influences stability and hull speed. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 has a width of 29 inches. This narrower beam contributes to its reputation for speed and efficiency. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is wider at 34 inches. This increased width provides greater primary stability, making the boat feel more secure and steady, especially for beginners or when fishing. The trade-off is that the wider hull may not track as efficiently as the narrower Wilderness Systems model.
Storage Features
Edge: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Storage options vary significantly between the two designs. The Old Town Malibu Two XL includes a QuickStash Dry Hatch for waterproof storage. It also features open bow and stern tankwells with bungees for securing gear. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 data does not list specific storage compartments or dry hatches. It focuses on seating comfort and adjustability. If you need to store dry items or secure gear on the deck, the Old Town model offers more dedicated storage solutions.
Which Kayak Fits Your Paddling Needs
Solo paddlers seeking efficient touring
Our pick: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 measures 12 feet long and weighs 49 pounds. Its sit-inside design offers better protection from wind and spray. The Phase 3 Air Pro seat provides ergonomic support with mesh-covered honeycomb-vented foam for airflow. Adjustable foot rests and thigh pads ensure a comfortable fit for small to medium paddlers on calm waters.
Couples needing extra cargo space
Our pick: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
The Old Town Malibu Two XL accommodates two people with a 491-pound weight capacity. It features large cup holders near each seat and an open bow and stern tankwell with bungees for quick storage. The QuickStash Dry Hatch provides waterproof storage. Improved scupper locations allow water to drain quickly, keeping you dry during long recreational outings.
Users prioritizing stability and width
Our pick: Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
The Old Town Malibu Two XL is 34 inches wide and 13 feet 3.96 inches long. This wider hull offers reassuring stability for recreational use. The patented overlapping foot wells allow for comfortable bracing for a center-seated paddler. The YakLock Locking Bar adds security. Its stackable design makes storage easier compared to the narrower 29-inch Wilderness Systems Pungo 120.
Lightweight transport seekers
Our pick: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 weighs only 49 pounds, making it significantly easier to carry than the 90-pound Old Town Malibu Two XL. At 12 feet long, it is more maneuverable for solo trips. The sit-inside hull keeps you enclosed, offering a cooler experience with the ventilated seat foam. It is ideal for paddlers who value portability and efficiency.
Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
Best for: small to medium paddlers
- Deck Type
- Sit Inside
- Activity Type
- Recreational
- Length
- 12'
- Hull Weight
- 49 pounds
- Color
- Mango
- Dimensions
- 146 × 29 × 14 inches
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a 12-foot sit-inside recreational kayak designed for small to medium paddlers. Weighing 49 pounds, it offers a manageable build for solo use. The 29-inch width provides stability, while the Phase 3 Air Pro seat delivers ergonomic support with honeycomb-vented foam. This model prioritizes efficient paddling and comfort for day trips.
- 12-foot length aids tracking and efficiency
- 29-inch width offers reassuring stability
- Phase 3 Air Pro seat with mesh-vented foam for airflow
- Adjustable foot rests fit different paddler sizes
- 49-pound weight allows for easier transport
- 12-foot length is shorter than the 13-foot 3-inch Malibu Two XL
- 49-pound hull weight may feel heavier than lighter composite alternatives
- 29-inch width limits cargo volume compared to wider touring designs
- You are a small to medium-sized paddler seeking a stable recreational kayak
- You value ergonomic seating with breathable foam for longer comfort
- You want a manageable 49-pound hull for solo handling
- You require a sit-on-top deck for easy entry and exit
- You need a longer 13-foot 3-inch hull for increased speed and tracking
- You prefer a significantly lighter craft for frequent carrying
Verdict: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 12ft suits recreational paddlers who prioritize ergonomic comfort and stability in a manageable 49-pound package. It fits those who want a reliable sit-inside kayak for calm waters without the bulk of a larger touring model.
Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top
Best for: Two-person recreational paddling and gear storage
- 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 4-inch sit-on-top kayak designed for two paddlers. It supports up to 491 pounds and weighs 90 pounds. The 34-inch width offers stability for recreational use. Features include a stackable design, QuickStash dry hatch, and improved scupper drainage. This model suits couples or families seeking a stable, high-capacity vessel for calm waters.
- 491 lb weight capacity supports two adults and gear
- 13 ft 4 in length provides good tracking
- Stackable design simplifies storage and transport
- QuickStash Dry Hatch keeps items waterproof
- 34 in width enhances stability for beginners
- 90 lb hull weight is heavy for solo handling
- 13 ft 4 in length requires more storage space
- 491 lb capacity limits solo paddler mobility compared to lighter models
- You need a stable kayak for two people
- You want a high weight capacity for gear
- You prefer a sit-on-top deck for easy entry
- You prioritize lightweight portability under 50 lb
- You primarily paddle solo and want a narrower hull
- You have limited storage space for a 13 ft vessel
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Two XL Sit-on-Top is a stable, high-capacity choice for two paddlers who value storage and ease of use over portability. It fits couples or families looking for a durable recreational kayak.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 | Old Town Malibu Two XL 13-Foot Sit-on-Top |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | – | 2 person |
| Deck Type | Sit Inside | Sit-on-Top |
| Activity Type | Recreational | Recreational |
| Length | 12' | 13 ft 3.96 in |
| Weight Capacity | – | 491 lb |
| Hull Weight | 49 pounds | 90 pounds |
| Activity | Recreation | Recreation |
| Color | Mango | Horizon |
| Dimensions | 146 × 29 × 14 inches | 150 × 34 × 15 inches |
| Weight | 49 pounds | 90 pounds |
| Size | 12' | Length 13 Ft |
| Model | 9730509054 | 01.7550.0702 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilderness Systems or Old Town better for inflatable kayaks?
Neither brand currently offers inflatable models in this specific comparison. The list features hard-shell kayaks from both manufacturers. You are comparing the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 and the Old Town Malibu Two XL. Both are rigid recreational kayaks designed for calm water use rather than inflatable construction.
Which kayak is lighter to carry, the Pungo 120 or the Malibu Two XL?
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is significantly lighter. It weighs 49 pounds, making it easier for a single person to transport. The Old Town Malibu Two XL weighs 90 pounds. Its heavier weight reflects its larger size and higher capacity for two paddlers and gear.
Can I fit two people in the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120?
No, the Pungo 120 is designed for one person. It is a sit-inside kayak with a width of 29 inches. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is explicitly rated for two-person use. It measures 34 inches wide to accommodate a second paddler comfortably.
Does the Old Town Malibu Two XL have more storage space?
Yes, the Malibu Two XL offers more storage capacity. It is built for two-person recreational paddling and gear storage. The Pungo 120 is a solo recreational kayak. Its 12-foot length and 29-inch width prioritize stability and maneuverability for one paddler over large cargo volume.
Which kayak is better for windy conditions?
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 may offer better protection. Its sit-inside deck type encloses the paddler, shielding you from wind and spray. The Old Town Malibu Two XL is a sit-on-top model. This design leaves you more exposed to the elements, which can be less comfortable in wind.
Are these kayaks suitable for beginners?
Yes, both models are classified as recreational kayaks. The Pungo 120 is ideal for small to medium paddlers seeking stability. The Malibu Two XL is also for recreation but suits couples or families. Both designs prioritize ease of use for calm water environments rather than advanced touring or whitewater.
How wide is the Old Town Malibu Two XL compared to the Pungo 120?
The Malibu Two XL is wider at 34 inches. The Pungo 120 measures 29 inches across. The extra width on the Old Town model contributes to its higher stability and capacity for two people. The narrower Pungo 120 is designed for efficient paddling by a single user.