California-based kayak maker Oru has built a great brand on the strength of its origami-inspired folding kayaks, and now it’s launching its lightest and most portable model yet with a new Kickstarter project. The Oru Inlet miraculously packs up to the size of a suitcase, weights less than 20 lbs, and can unfold and be on the water in as little as two minutes.
Even if you’re trying it for the first time, or just aren’t particularly handy, the kayak still sets up in 5 minutes, at most, according to Oru – which, speaking from personal experience, is a lot faster than its other models. Which isn’t to say that those aren’t also impressive, since they still allow you to carry around what amounts to luggage and have a durable, fun watercraft in around 10 minutes. But the Inlet takes this concept to a whole new level, and looks like the ideal casual kayak for dipping out for a quick paddle in and around the city.
