Oru Kayak Review: Exploring All Models
Looking for a kayak that’s portable, durable, and incredibly easy to set up? Say hello to Oru Kayak – the pioneers of foldable, origami-style kayaks. Unlike traditional kayaks, Oru Kayak isn’t just a single model but a brand offering a wide range of innovative designs to suit different needs and adventures. Whether you’re a casual paddler or an outdoor enthusiast ready for an expedition, Oru Kayaks deliver convenience and performance in one package. In this Oru Kayak review, we’ll explore their various models, standout features, pros and cons, and help you find the perfect fit for your adventures.
Oru Kayak Models Overview
Oru offers a diverse range of kayaks tailored to different paddling environments:
- Calm Water Kayaks: Oru Lake, Oru Inlet, and Oru Beach LT
- Choppy Water Kayaks: Bay ST, Coast XT
- Tandem Kayaks: Haven TT
- Fishing Kayaks: Oru Inlet Sport, Oru Beach LT Sport
Each model brings unique advantages, making it easier for kayakers to select the perfect option for their needs.
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Calm Water Kayaks
Oru Lake

Oru Lake
- Length: 9′ 0″
- Width: 32″
- Weight: 17 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Max Paddler Height: 6’4″
- Price: $549
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
- Beginner-friendly
- Easy to assemble in under 5 minutes
Cons
- Limited storage capacity
- Not suitable for rough waters
The Oru Lake is the lightest and most portable kayak in Oru’s lineup, weighing just 17 lbs. It is designed specifically for calm waters, making it an ideal choice for casual paddlers, families, and beginners. Its compact design means it can be easily transported in the trunk of your car or even carried onto a plane.
The Oru Lake assembles in under a minute and is made from the same durable, puncture-resistant material as Oru’s larger models. Despite its compact size, it offers the same level of durability, able to withstand bumps and scrapes.
This kayak is perfect for paddling in lakes, calm rivers, or bays. Its beginner-friendly design makes it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. It’s also an excellent choice for those with limited storage space, as it folds down into a small box.
Oru Inlet

Oru Inlet
- Length: 9’8″
- Width: 31″
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
- Max Paddler Height: 6’2″
- Price: $899
Pros
- Easy and quick setup
- Lightweight and durable
- Spacious cockpit for comfort
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy waves or open waters
- Limited space for extra gear
The Oru Inlet is designed for flatwater paddling and is a step up from the Lake model in terms of size and features. It weighs 20 lbs and is slightly larger, making it more comfortable for longer paddling sessions. The Inlet is easy to assemble and is perfect for all experience levels.
Built with a spacious cockpit and an adjustable footrest, the Inlet offers more comfort during extended paddles. Its reinforced grab handles and bungee system make it easy to transport and store gear. Like other Oru models, it’s made from durable polypropylene that can withstand rough handling.
This kayak is ideal for flatwater paddling, such as lakes, bays, or slow-moving rivers. It offers a balance between portability and comfort, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Oru Beach LT

Oru Beach LT
- Length: 12’1″
- Width: 29″
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
- Max Paddler Height: 6’6″
- Price: $1,199
Pros
- More storage space for longer trips
- Stable and comfortable for beginners and experienced kayakers
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the Lake and Inlet models
- Not designed for rough conditions
The Beach LT is designed for fun and casual paddling. Weighing 25 lbs, this kayak offers more stability and speed than the Oru Lake and Inlet models, making it a great choice for those looking for a slightly more advanced kayak.
The Beach LT is known for its stability and spacious open cockpit, which makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It’s made from Oru’s signature polypropylene material, ensuring it can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use.
Designed for recreational paddling, the Beach LT is perfect for day trips, picnics, or mellow paddles on calm waters. It’s stable enough for beginners but also offers enough performance for more experienced kayakers.
We have explain the product deeply in Oru Beach LT review about the uses and the performance and other essential accessories for this kayak.
Choppy Water Kayaks
Bay ST

Bay ST
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Length: 12’3″
- Width: 25″
- Max Paddler Height: 6’3″
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Price: $1,539
Pros
- Versatile for multiple water types
- Compact and easy to store
- Suitable for intermediate and advanced paddlers
Cons
- Longer setup time compared to entry-level models
- May not be as stable for beginners
The Bay ST is one of Oru’s most versatile kayaks, designed for both smooth and rough water conditions. Weighing 26 lbs, it’s compact enough to take on flights or hikes into remote areas, yet sturdy enough to handle choppy seas.
The Bay ST folds down to the size of a suitcase and can be assembled in under 15 minutes. Its closed cockpit provides extra protection from the elements, and the adjustable footrest and backrest ensure comfort during long paddles. This kayak is built for both performance and portability, making it ideal for serious adventurers.
The Bay ST is best for intermediate to advanced paddlers who want a kayak that can handle a variety of water conditions. It’s perfect for multi-day trips, ocean paddling, and challenging waters.
Coast XT

Coast XT
- Weight: 32 lbs
- Length: 16’2″
- Width: 25″
- Max Paddler Height: 6’3″
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Price: $2,039
Pros
- High storage capacity for long trips
- Sturdy and durable, ideal for tough conditions
- Excellent speed and performance
Cons
- Complex assembly
- Heavier and bulkier than other models
The Coast XT is Oru’s fastest and most capable kayak, built for open-ocean expeditions and long-distance paddling. It weighs 32 lbs and can carry up to 400 lbs of gear, making it perfect for extended trips.
This model is built for serious paddlers, with extra features like aluminum latches and reinforced strap anchor points for added durability. It folds down to the size of a large suitcase and can be carried easily in the Oru Pack. The closed cockpit offers protection from rough waters, and the high storage capacity makes it ideal for long trips.
The Coast XT is designed for intermediate and advanced paddlers who want to tackle rough seas and open waters. It’s also great for long expeditions where storage and performance are essential.
Tandem Kayak
Haven TT

Haven TT
- Weight: 41 lbs
- Length: 16’1″
- Width: 33″
- Max Paddler Height: 6’6″
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
- Price: $1,999
Pros
- Spacious for two people
- Can be used as a tandem or solo kayak
- Stable and great for all skill levels
Cons
- Heavy for solo transport
- Longer setup time
The Haven TT is a tandem kayak that offers unmatched portability and performance. Weighing 41 lbs, it’s Oru’s most stable kayak, designed for family adventures or tandem paddling. The Haven can also be converted into a single kayak, offering more flexibility.
The Haven TT features a universal rail system that allows for various accessories to be mounted, making it perfect for activities like fishing or photography. It also has a high weight capacity of 500 lbs, allowing two adults or a lot of gear.
Ideal for family paddles, fishing, or anyone who prefers to paddle with a partner. The convertible design also makes it great for solo paddlers who need extra space for gear.
Fishing Kayaks
Oru Inlet Sport

Oru Inlet Sport
- Weight: 23 lbs
- Length: 9’8″
- Width: 31″
- Max Paddler Height: 6’2″
- Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
- Price: N/A
Pros
- Accessory-friendly with a rail system
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Perfect for calm water fishing
Cons
- Not ideal for rough waters or heavy fishing gear
- Limited space for large gear
The Oru Inlet Sport is designed for fishing enthusiasts, offering enhanced features like an integrated rail system for mounting accessories, including fishing rods. Weighing 23 lbs, it is light and portable, making it easy to carry on fishing trips.
The Inlet Sport has all the features of the original Inlet model but includes additions tailored to fishing, such as cup holders, rod holders, and extra storage space. It is made from the same durable polypropylene material, ensuring it can handle the rough conditions often encountered during fishing.
This kayak is perfect for calm water fishing trips, offering ample space for fishing gear and accessories. It’s easy to transport, making it a great option for anglers who want to travel light.
Oru Beach LT Sport

Oru Beach LT Sport
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Length: 12’1″
- Width: 29″
- Max Paddler Height: 6’6″
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Price: $1,592
Pros
- Accessory rails for mounting fishing gear
- Stable and spacious cockpit
- Comfortable for extended trips
Cons
- Heavier than standard models
- Not suited for rough waters
The Beach LT Sport is a sportier version of the Beach LT, offering enhanced features for fishing and extended paddling sessions. It weighs 28 lbs and includes an integrated rail system, reflective deck lines, and a gel seat cushion for added comfort.
The Beach LT Sport is designed to be agile and sturdy, with the ability to mount fishing rods and other accessories. It’s made from the same durable material as other Oru kayaks and can withstand years of use in calm waters.
Perfect for those looking to combine recreational paddling with fishing, the Beach LT Sport offers more comfort and versatility than the standard Beach LT model.
Which Oru Kayak is Best for You?
Choosing the right Oru Kayak depends on your needs and paddling preferences:
- For Beginners: The Oru Lake and Oru Inlet are excellent options for those just starting out. They are easy to assemble, lightweight, and perfect for calm waters.
- For Intermediate Paddlers: The Bay ST offers more versatility and can handle both calm and choppy waters. It’s ideal for those looking to explore different water conditions without the bulk of larger models.
- For Advanced Paddlers: If you’re planning on tackling rough seas or going on long expeditions, the Coast XT is your best bet. It’s fast, durable, and offers plenty of storage space for gear.
- For Families and Tandem Paddlers: The Haven TT is perfect for those who enjoy paddling with a partner or need extra space for gear. Its convertible design adds to its flexibility.
- For Fishing Enthusiasts: The Inlet Sport and Beach LT Sport are ideal for anglers, offering features like rod holders and extra storage space for gear.
Oru Kayak Accessories
To enhance your kayaking experience, Oru offers a range of accessories:
- Oru Paddle: A lightweight, foldable paddle that complements the portability of Oru kayaks. It breaks down into four pieces, making it easy to store.
- Oru Gel Seat: Provides extra comfort for long paddling sessions, designed to fit all Oru models except the Lake.
- Oru Cooler: Keeps your drinks and snacks cold for up to 8 hours. It’s compatible with all Oru open-cockpit models and can hold up to 10 lbs of items.
- Canine Flotation Device: A specially designed life jacket for dogs, ensuring their safety while paddling.
- Oru Kayak Pack: Allows you to carry your kayak easily during hikes or while traveling. It’s available in different sizes to fit various models, including the Lake, Inlet, and Beach LT.
- Rod Holder: A versatile accessory for fishing, allowing you to mount your fishing rod securely to your kayak.
These accessories make it easier to enjoy extended paddling sessions, ensuring you’re prepared for any adventure.
What We Didn’t Like About Oru Kayaks
While Oru Kayaks offer many advantages, there are a few downsides worth mentioning:
- Setup Time: Larger models like the Haven TT and Coast XT can take up to 15 minutes to assemble, which may be a drawback for some users.
- Weight: Although lightweight compared to traditional kayaks, some models (like the Haven TT) are heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to carry over long distances.
- Price: Oru Kayaks are more expensive than some traditional kayaks, which could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
Despite these drawbacks, the portability and durability of Oru Kayaks make them a strong contender for anyone looking for a versatile, foldable kayak.
Conclusion
Oru Kayaks are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a portable, durable, and easy-to-use kayak. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a lightweight model for calm lakes or an advanced paddler planning an expedition in rough seas, Oru offers a kayak for every adventure. With their innovative design, reliable performance, and growing line of accessories, Oru Kayaks are paving the way for the future of portable paddling.