Epic k1 Sport

I recently had the chance to demo the new Epic K1 Sport in Gig Harbor, Washington, and was thoroughly impressed. It’s an incredibly stable, entry-level K1 that feels purpose-built for paddlers—especially older athletes—getting into the sport later in life.
By comparison, I recently purchased a South African-made Knysna K1 in Kevlar, equipped with an overstern rudder—the same type often used in the legendary Dusi Canoe Marathon. It’s the kind of K1 you see marathoners dragging behind them during the portage sections. But for me, it’s been a Dusi of a different kind—I can barely stay upright on it for more than ten seconds.
The Epic K1, on the other hand, has excellent secondary stability and felt totally manageable. I had zero issues staying up, even on my first paddle. It’s definitely on my shortlist for a future purchase—just as soon as I thin out my current fleet.

Which knysna did you get?

It’s a vantage pro

I have a vantage pro as well! It is a full-on elite k1. The vantage pro has a 39cm beam as compared to the 45 cm epic k1 sport, so they are several stability levels apart. In the knysna line up I think the jacana at 44 cm would be a more comparable boat.

If you are looking for a 45cm k1 you should check out the NK 45. It is 4 pounds lighter and $800 cheaper than the epic if you get it in their heaviest layup. Or $100 cheaper and 7 pounds lighter if you get their lightest layup. I have owned 2 NK and a half dozen epics over the years, and I am a big fan of both brands. I just think the value proposition of NK is hard to beat right now.

Yes I realized that. I tried the Knysna the other day on flat water and after many attempts, I was finally able to paddle it for two hundred yard at a time. I think I can get and if anything using it could improve my balance in my skis. Still, if I can find a really good deal on the Epic K1 Sport, I would go for it.