Having owned my Glider 473cm kayak for almost a year with restricted use due to the coronavirus lockdowns, I somehow still managed to get at least 150 hours out on the water. So, here is my honest (say it as you see it) opinion on this kayak. Also, in this video, I thought I would answer a few of the questions that I have frequently been asked via my website, my first impressions video, and emails.

In this video, I am carrying out a bit of annual maintenance, and sharing my thoughts on my Bluewave Glider Drop Stitch Kayak, One Year On. Also, I talk about some accessories I have bought that in my opinion makes setting up, cleaning of the kayak, and packing away much easier. I have uploaded quiet a few videos showing this kayak out on the water since my Out Of The Box, First Impressions" video where my opinion on the kayak's performance had been mentioned.


Disadvantages/Advantages:

I will start with the disadvantages. (Cons)

An awful envelope type bag which makes storing and carrying the kayak extremely awkward. The 2021 version includes a carrier bag that features both wheels, and is of a backpack design.

No side handles fitted on either the two or one-person kayaks. This makes launching and exiting the water at jetties, raised river banks, or canoe platforms very difficult.

Kayak very difficult to carry inflated when portaging or transporting the kayak from the car to the launch site. Side handles would make the kayak easier to carry, however, I recommend investing in a kayak trolley.

Unable to completely drain water via deck level drain points. Unable to fully dry the kayak base due to the side seams.

Initially, the kayak may feel very tippy, but with practice, you will soon master the stability issues.

I do not feel that this style of kayak is suitable for young children that fidget or wish to move around, they are touring kayaks not toys.



Pros:
Ridged, robust, and safe. I would say you are far less likely to get a puncture than in the traditional large side chambered PVC or bladder-type kayak.

Gliders through the water with little to no drag.

Very little drag, it performs similar to a traditional hard shell open canoe/kayak.

Fast and tracks exceptionally well. Easy to clean and quick drying.

Although this review has been predominantly about the Bluewave Glider, there are several makes/models of similar design. These kayaks vary in build quality as in the layers of the outer PVC, the accessories, cargo nets, and side carry handles. Also, they vary vastly in price.

Here are a few similar design drop stitch kayaks
 SeaEagle Razorlite.
 Bic Sport Yak KAIR.
 Bay Sports 2019 Air Glide.
 KXONE Slider.
 Kraken.
 Bluewave Glider.
 Shipwreck Arrowstream.
 Story.

There are new companies offering D/S kayaks branded in their own name cropping up regularly, and many other companies offering different styles of kayak/canoe.

Attributions:
Music by: Juan Sánchez.
Soundtrack: Lullaby For A Frantic World.
Website: https://juansanchezmusic.info/music


DISCLAIMER:
This is just my personal opinion on the kayak, and drop stitch and traditional kayaks in general. My maintenance routine is simply how I prefer to look after my kayaks, and it may differ from the manufacturer's guidance. I (the author of this video) take no responsibility for any damage caused by anyone following my maintenance procedures.

As stated in the video, I have used Aerospace 303 Protectant on vinyl and PVC. I have not, and would not use it on any Polyester fabrics. The product instructions should be read and followed to avoid damaging materials.

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