Dagger Stratos 14.5 L

Size, weight, capacity

At 14’6” (442cm) long, the Stratos is longer than some sea kayaks, at 24.5” (62cm) wide it is also a bit wider, but that doesn’t seem to affect performance and the boat tracks well.

For such a versatile and sturdy kayak, a weight of 53lbs (24kg) is not excessive, and once on your shoulder it balances well. A lot of paddlers will still want some help moving the Stratos 14.5L around though, and Dagger have fitted soft grab handles at either end to make this easier.

The capacity of 300lbs (136kg) gives the 14.5L plenty of space for larger paddlers and all the kit they may need for long days or overnight trips. If you want the length but this feels a bit capacious, perhaps look at the 14.5S, the lower profile version of this kayak.

Features

The Stratos is packed with features which allow this touring kayak to be so versatile. A v-shaped hull, rounded edges and steep rocker profile combine to give this kayak an all round feel, turning efficiently, tracking easily through tricky conditions and having enough stability to make it an accessible recreational kayak.

Dagger have fitted the Stratos 14.5L with their Contour CFS outfitting. This comfortable, adjustable outfitting comprises a padded, ergonomically moulded seat, and adjustable backband, hip pads and thigh braces. All of this, combined with the easy to adjust Slidelock Xl foot brace system allows you to not only stay comfortable through long days on the water, but to gain maximum connection and control, essential for playing in surf and in tricky conditions.

Static, reflective line is fitted around the edge of the kayak, while a storage bungee crosses the top deck both front and back. Most of the storage capacity is in the form of two large hatches, accessed under the watertight covers and kept separated from the cockpit by sealed bulkheads. These give you loads of space for all your expedition kit.

An adjustable skeg system at the rear of the kayak can be altered from the cockpit depending on your environment.

Soft grip carrying handles are fitted front and rear.

Performance

The Stratos 14.5L is designed as a touring kayak which can delve into some rough sea environments and this is worth remembering when considering the performance.

For a touring kayak, the Stratos is a fast boat and can keep up with some sea kayaks relatively easily. The rocker profile on it doesn’t seem to unduly affect the tracking capabilities and there’s always the skeg to fall back on. The rocker profile also allows this boat to turn with ease and rounded edges and well defined chines make longer, leaning turns easy to perform.

There is space in the Stratos for plenty of kit, although if you were wanting to go away for more than a night or two you might want to consider a larger boat.

All in all, this kayak performs well and can take a paddler all the way from beginner to playing in waves or exploring rivers and lakes.