Trailblazer 100 NXT Review

Pelican Trailblazer 100 NXT Kayak Review [2022]

Are you on a budget and need the perfect recreational kayak that won’t cost you much? You can stop your search at the Pelican Trailblazer 100 NXT vessel which we believe is quite well made.

Of course, you’ll find many options in the market, but this particular Pelican kayak stood out with its simplicity and impressive features it possesses. For this reason, it is suitable for first timers since it won’t give them a hard time getting started.

Before you set your mind to purchase the kayak, take a look at the in-depth review we did on it. This way, you’ll be aware of what you are getting yourself into.

Trailblazer 100 NXT Specs

*Dimensions: 10ft long by 29-inches wide

*Overall weight of 36lbs

*Can hold a Maximum load of 275lbs

*A one-person kayak

*Made of RAM-X material

*Available in red, blue and green colors

Key Features of the Pelican Trailblazer 100NXT KAYAK

We shall start this editorial by breaking break down what makes up this vessel. In the end, it will be clear to you what you will get by investing in the ‘yak.

Here is a detailed analysis of the different aspects of the kayak:

Storage Compartments

Let us be honest and tell you that this is not a sector where the Pelican Trailblazer 100 NXT excels, and the variety of options available is pretty limited. Away from that, the storage available should be enough for your trip.

Starting with the bow, you will get a storage compartment with a bungee cord to ensure your luggage isn’t thrown all over the place. This space could hold your lunch bag or jacket which will come in handy if it starts pouring.

Next up is the hull, which you can hold some of the small stuff you may need for the journey. However, everything has to be locked in a dry bag to ensure it doesn’t get soaked up.

How can we leave out the bottle holder, adjustable to different positions and you can enjoy your favorite drink during every trip.

Durability

All premium kayaks from Pelican are made using the patented RAM-X material. The material is built to withstand all kinds of hits and bumps – and regain its original shape afterward.

Even with this high-quality build, this unit isn’t bulky at all, only weighing 36lbs. So, it won’t weigh down your car during transportation, nor will it give you a hard time moving it to the water and vice versa.

However, proper maintenance is critical for this vessel’s longevity. Luckily, it is pretty easy to maintain, with the main practice being rinsing with fresh water before storage.

Comfort or Not?

We guess than staying in the water for several minutes, you’ll be paddling in the waters for a few good hours to get the most out of the trip. So, maximum comfort is important for the entire trip, and this vessel takes care of that aspect in different ways.

Let’s start with the cushioned seat, which will ensure you don’t end up with a stiff back at the end of the day. In addition to that, the adjustable backrest is padded to provide you with a comfortable place for you to relax and enjoy.

Further, the backrest features adjustable straps, which you can set to attain the tightness or looseness that you wish to attain for the sake of your comfort.

And you can never be too big for this vessel since the footrests, which have been molded, feature here to accommodate different sized paddlers.

Is The 100 NXT Stable?

Safety is a crucial aspect for most beginners, and is mainly determined by how stable the vessel is. Luckily for you, with the Trailblazer 100 NXT, this sector is fully covered. First, the 28-inch width is enough to assure you of a comfortable and upright sitting position.

Then, the hull will affect the kayak’s stability, with its flat middle and twin-arched multi-chine design. Most of all, the unit is designed such that there is even weight distribution, and when you combine all these factors, you end up with a stable vessel that is unlikely throw you into the water.

Maneuverability and Tracking

Any newbie will value the maneuverability of this vessel, where the short keel makes it very easy to make sharp turns. In addition to that, we have nothing to complain about the tracking, and we can link this to its stability.

Just How Portable Is This Kayak?

When it comes to moving this vessel from one spot to another, there are several features that are meant to give you an easy time doing so. With a length of 10ft, it shouldn’t be a challenge to fit this unit at the top of a car or truck’s cabin.

However, we suggest that you install a roof rack in so that the vessel does not end up scratching your car.

Then, 36lbs is a weight that won’t need a second hand to carry/lift it, and the carry handles at the bow and stern make things even easier.

Also Related

Our Detailed Review of Pelican Mission 100 Kayak

The Catch 100 Kayak in Detail: Good Buy or Not?

Mustang 100X Features, Pros and Cons

Customer Reviews on 100 NXT Trailblazer Kayak from Pelican

After analyzing the main aspects of this vessel, let’s now look at what other buyers thought of it after trying it out.

They are as follows:

*We found one customer who liked how easy it was to carry and load the kayak onto his truck

*The affordability is another impressive aspect where some users were surprised at how lowly priced the unit is for the features it possesses

*Then, a customer was fascinated with how good-looking the kayak is and was the perfect Christmas gift for his wife

Who Is It Best Suited For?

If you want to try out recreational kayaking without spending a lot of bucks, the Trailblazer 100 is your perfect match. Additionally, it would be a good gift for your child who has an interest in kayaking.

Due to the simplicity in its overall design, this unit is well-suited for kids and newbies. On top of everything, it is not bulky, allowing for a hassle-free transportation so that your first time doesn’t have to be a cumbersome affair.

However, if you are looking for a vessel with over-the top features e.g. rod holders and ample storage options, there are high-end products in the market that you could try out.

Pros and Cons the 100NXT From Pelican

Now that we know everything that this product brings to the table, how about we provide you with a summary of its benefits and disadvantages?

Here they are:

Pros

  • Excellent stability and maneuverability
  • Lightweight
  • Multiple color options
  • Very comfortable
  • Decently priced

Cons

  • Not for rough waters
  • Limited storage options

Wrapping It Up

There you have it; we hope that our product review has highlighted what it is all about. It is a well-built unit that won’t fall apart easily even if you subject it to the harshest environment. Everything about it gives a hint of simplicity from tracking, maneuverability, and learning curve.

We are certain that you will like its stability such that the vessel won’t get flipped over which would put you at risk of drowning.

With that information in mind, there is nothing that should hold you back from acquiring this kayak. You could make the normal excuse of finances, but this is one of the cheapest units around, and you shouldn’t have a problem purchasing it.

Erick Thompson

Hi, I'm a fishing & kayaking enthusiast who enjoys sharing tips and tidbits with newbies, intermediates, and experienced anglers alike.

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