Looking for a kayak that folds like origami and fits in your closet?
The Oru Inlet has earned its place as a go-to choice among paddlers who want portability without sacrificing performance.
This revolutionary folding kayak weighs just 20 pounds and assembles in minutes, making it perfect for urban dwellers and travelers.
If you’re planning peaceful lake trips or need a kayak that doesn’t require roof racks, the Oru Inlet delivers consistent performance, building confidence on the water.
Everything you need to make an informed purchase decision will be covered, from detailed performance insights to the best places to buy one today.
What Makes the Oru Inlet Special
The Oru Inlet stands out in the competitive portable kayak market due to its thoughtful design choices, which cater to paddlers with storage challenges.
At 9’8″ long and weighing just 20 pounds, this kayak hits the sweet spot between portability and performance.
The origami-inspired folding design provides both rigidity and packability, while the polypropylene construction ensures years of reliable service.
This isn’t just clever marketing – it’s functional engineering that makes kayaking possible for apartment dwellers, travelers, and anyone tired of storage hassles.
Key Specifications
These are the key specifications that make the Oru Inlet different from other kayaks:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 9’8″ (295 cm) |
| Width | 30-31″ (79 cm) |
| Weight | 20 lbs (9 kg) |
| Capacity | 275 lbs including paddler and gear |
| Folded Size | 42″ x 18″ x 10″ |
| Material | 5 mm double-layer polypropylene |
| Assembly Time | 3-5 minutes |
| Max Paddler Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Price | Around $899 USD |
Fun Fact: The folding design creates multiple air chambers when assembled, providing some of the buoyancy benefits of an inflatable kayak while maintaining the rigidity of a hard-shell kayak.
First Impressions and Review of The Oru Inlet
Getting hands-on with the Oru Inlet reveals why it maintains such a strong reputation among both recreational paddlers and travelers.
Here’s what you can expect from this portable kayak based on extensive testing and real-world use.
1. Build Quality and Construction
Right out of the box, the Oru Inlet feels surprisingly solid for something that folds flat. The polypropylene construction demonstrates attention to detail, featuring precise fold lines and sturdy hardware throughout.
The kayak arrives ready to assemble with minimal setup required.
The folding mechanism is intuitive once you understand the pattern, and the overall build quality inspires confidence for regular use.
All connection points are reinforced to handle the stress of repeated folding.
2. On-Water Performance
The Oru Inlet delivers exactly what it promises: reliable performance that builds confidence from your first paddle stroke. Here’s how it rates across key performance areas:
| Performance Aspect | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | 4/5 | Good primary stability, adequate secondary |
| Speed | 3/5 | Decent glide for recreational use |
| Tracking | 4/5 | Tracks well in calm conditions |
| Maneuverability | 4/5 | Lightweight makes it very responsive |
| Portability | 5/5 | Unmatched – fits in a backpack |
Speed and tracking prove more than adequate for recreational use, though dedicated touring kayaks will outperform them on longer distances.
3. Comfort and Storage
Comfort Features:
- Adjustable foam seat and backrest
- Roomy cockpit for easy entry and exit
- Multiple carry handles for transport
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue
Storage Solutions:
- Comes with a storage backpack
- Repair kit included
- Compact folded size fits anywhere
- No roof rack required
The seat design works well for recreational paddling, providing adequate support without restricting your paddle stroke. The folded size makes storage incredibly convenient.
4. Strengths and Limitations
Based on extensive user feedback and testing, here’s how the Oru Inlet performs in key areas:
| Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Unmatched portability – fits in closets | Limited to calm water conditions only |
| Quick 3-5 minute setup process | 275 lb weight limit restricts heavier paddlers |
| Durable materials withstand 20,000+ folds | Some hull flex during aggressive maneuvers |
| No roof rack or garage storage needed | Higher price point than basic kayaks |
| Lightweight at only 20 lbs | Assembly required for every use |
| Perfect for travel and urban living | Reduced secondary stability vs traditional kayaks |
Most users find the strengths significantly outweigh the limitations, especially for recreational paddling and travel applications.
5. Who Should Consider the Oru Inlet
The Oru Inlet suits paddlers who want portability without compromising on build quality. Urban dwellers will appreciate the space-saving design and easy transportation without the need for roof racks.
Travelers who want one kayak for multiple destinations will find the Oru Inlet handles everything well.
It’s also perfect for beginners who prioritize convenience and easy storage over maximum performance.
What Users Say About the Oru Inlet
Real paddlers share honest experiences about this folding kayak across various online communities. Here’s what actual owners report from popular forums.
Reddit Community Feedback:
- r/Kayaking frequently mentions the Oru Inlet’s convenience for apartment living
Setup Reality: Most find assembly “easy once you learn the pattern,” but admit “first few times were frustrating.” The learning curve is real, but users report setup getting much faster with practice.
- r/Ultralight users praise its packability for backcountry trips
Performance Feedback: Reddit users describe it as “stable enough for fishing” but acknowledge it’s “slower than my hard-shell kayak.” The consensus is solid performance for recreational use with realistic expectations.
- r/camping threads highlight its travel-friendly design
Durability Reports: Long-term owners report positive experiences: “Two years of regular use, still solid.” Some express concern about “long-term fold wear” but haven’t experienced failures yet.
Where Can You Buy the Oru Inlet?
Finding the Oru Inlet requires checking multiple sources since availability varies by region and retailer stock levels.
1. Specialty Outdoor Retailers
Major outdoor retailers occasionally stock Oru products, though availability varies significantly by location and season.
These stores offer the distinct advantage of allowing you to see the kayak in person when available, letting you examine the folding mechanism and build quality firsthand.
2. Online Retailers
Several online platforms carry the Oru Inlet when in stock. The official Oru website provides direct purchases with full manufacturer support and warranty coverage.
Specialized retailers, such as EcoFishingShop, SUP California, and Riverbound Sports, also carry Oru models when available.
Additionally, Kayakish and other dedicated kayak retailers may have inventory during peak seasons.
3. Availability Considerations
The Oru Inlet remains a popular choice among folding kayak enthusiasts, but stock levels can fluctuate throughout the year.
Spring and early summer typically see the highest demand as paddling season begins. Consider shopping during the fall and winter months for a better selection and potentially better pricing.
Checking multiple retailers regularly increases your chances of finding available inventory.
Pricing Guide and Deals
Understanding the Oru Inlet’s pricing helps you budget appropriately and spot good deals when they appear.
| Purchase Option | Region | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New (Official Website) | USA | $899 | Full warranty, latest model, free paddle & pack offers |
| Certified Refurbished | USA | $650 – $750 | Like-new condition, with warranty |
| Used | USA | $500 – $650 | Limited warranty, check for crease damage |
| New (Online Retailers) | USA / Canada | $850 – $900 | EcoFishingShop, SUP California, Riverbound Sports, etc. |
| New (Offline Dealers) | USA / Canada | $899 – $950 | Availability varies; offers demo and professional support |
| New (UK Market) | UK | £799 – £850 (~$1,000) | Retailers such as Nestaway Boats |
| New (Australia) | Australia | AUD 1,200+ (~$800 USD) | Prices vary; shipping costs are applicable |
When shopping, compare prices across multiple retailers and factor in shipping costs for online purchases. Watch for end-of-season sales, though popular models may sell out quickly.
Alternatives to The Oru Inlet
When the Oru Inlet isn’t available or doesn’t quite meet your specific needs, several alternatives offer different approaches to portable kayaking.
| Kayak Model | Length | Weight | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oru Bay+ | 12 ft | 26 lbs | $1,200-$1,500 | Larger paddlers, more performance |
| Advanced Elements AirFusion | 10’5″ | 26 lbs | $450-$550 | Hybrid inflatable design |
| Oru Inlet | 9’8″ | 20 lbs | $850-$900 | Best portability and convenience |
Quick Comparison:
- Larger option: Oru Bay+
- Budget pick: Sea Eagle 370
- Hybrid design: Advanced Elements AirFusion
- Best portability: Oru Inlet
Things to Consider Before Buying
Before purchasing, verify that your weight, plus the weight of your expected gear, falls comfortably within the kayak’s 275-lb capacity rating.
Maintain at least 50 pounds below the maximum for optimal performance.
Consider your height, as paddlers over 6’2″ may find the cockpit cramped. The folded size requires storage space of 42″ x 18″ x 10″, which fits in most closets or under beds.
Used Oru Inlets occasionally appear on local marketplaces. Check carefully for crease damage or worn fold lines, as well-maintained units provide years of reliable service.
How to Maintain Your Oru Inlet
Following these basic care practices will keep your Oru Inlet looking good and performing well for years to come.
| Maintenance Area | Action Required | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Rinse with fresh water, especially after saltwater | After each use |
| Storage | Store in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight | Always |
| Inspection | Check hinges, seams, and straps for wear | Monthly |
| Hardware | Tighten screws and buckles, check for damage | Monthly |
| UV Protection | Use covers during long-term storage | As needed |
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance is essential, yet simple. Neglecting basic care can lead to premature wear, while proper attention keeps your kayak performing like new for many seasons.
Your Folding Voyage Awaits
The Oru Inlet continues to earn recommendations from paddlers who value the perfect balance of portability, performance, and convenience.
While newer models may offer additional features, the Oru Inlet’s proven design continues to meet the needs of many kayakers effectively.
Its lightweight construction, space-saving storage, and reliable handling make it suitable for a variety of recreational activities.
Check authorized retailers for current availability and compare pricing to find the best deal in your area. Remember that the right kayak is the one that matches your specific needs and gets you on the water regularly.
Start shopping and get ready to unfold your next voyage!
