Dagger Axis 10.5

Size, weight, capacity

With almost all of the 10’6” (320cm) length of the Axis in contact with the water, this kayak combines exceptional tracking capabilities with the maneuverability needed to make tight turns. The Axis 10.5 is relatively wide for a sit in kayak at 28.5” (72cm), but this makes it an extremely stable, accessible recreational boat.

Unsurprisingly this does it all, heavy duty kayak carries a bit of weight with it. At 50lbs (23kg) it’s not back-breaking, but you probably won’t be carrying it a long way from the car to the water on your own.

The Axis 10.5 has a maximum capacity of 300lbs (136kg), plenty of space for most paddlers who are just going out for a day at a time. If you want some extra capacity for overnight trips or added comfort, consider looking at the Axis 12.

Features

The Axis 10.5 may be a recreational kayak, but Dagger have fully embraced the versatile nature and given it features to match.

First and foremost, if you’re going to spend all day out on the water you need to be comfortable and with this in mind Dagger have fitted their ConTour CFS-R seating and backrest system as well as padded ConTour thigh braces. The outfitting is completed with adjustable Slidelock XL footpegs to keep you upright and to allow you to drive the boat around on the water.

There is a large watertight hatch on the rear of the kayak, sealed by a domed cover and a bulkhead, to store your kit in. Behind the paddler there is a deck bungee for extra storage as well as a mesh pocket on the front deck, secured with a bungee. Next to the paddler is a paddle park bungee so you can go hands free on the water without worrying about losing your paddle.

At the rear of the Axis is an adjustable skeg system, controlled from the paddling position. This helps the kayak track and can be useful for beginners or in difficult conditions.

Performance

The Axis 10.5 is an all round kayak which can do a bit of everything and for everyone. The width makes it a very stable kayak and perfect for beginners who will also be grateful for the skeg helping to keep them in a straight line.

The length and profile of the kayak means it tracks well without the skeg. There is enough rocker profile that this kayak can paddle through choppy conditions comfortably, but the v-shaped bow retains enough contact with the water to keep you on your line.

For recreational users who want to explore their local waterways or to go on an overnight expedition, the Axis 10.5 has everything you need. It can perform well in a wide range of conditions and has a good level of storage. The outfitting is comfortable and versatile, although anyone with river ambitions will benefit from the aftermarket thigh braces.