Lifetime Guster 10

Size and Weight

Measuring up at 10’ (304.8 cm), the Guster 10 is a recreational kayak that offers a good mix of performance and portability. Its 30” (76.2 cm) width is also right on target for a kayak this size, providing it with enhanced stability on flat water. The wider midsection offers increased stability as well as added interior space around the seat of the kayak. With that in mind, the boat’s 14” deck height might feel a bit tight for larger paddlers or anyone that’s particularly tall.

Finally, the Guster 10’s 48 lb (21.7 kg) weight is somewhat hefty for a blow molded kayak of this length. However, since it comes with a set of front and rear carry handles, it should be easy enough for two people to transport and lift onto the top of a car.

Capacity

The Guster 10 has a maximum weight limit of 275 lbs (124.7 kg), which makes this boat most suitable for small to mid-sized paddlers who don’t plan to pack too much gear while on the water.

Since it is generally recommended to keep the total load on a boat at less than 80% of its stated capacity for peak performance, the effective weight limit of the Guster 10 is 220 lbs (90.7 kg). This makes it appropriate for small to mid-sized paddlers with a moderate amount of gear or slightly larger paddlers that are just going out for a fast and light jaunt on the water.

Features

Although the Guster 10 is designed for comfort and versatility, it doesn’t go overboard with added features.

One of the most important features of this boat is its fully adjustable padded seat back, which allows for superior lumbar support. Its included seat pad, as well as its thigh pads around the edge of the cockpit, also improve comfort on the water.

In the rear of the kayak, Lifetime installed a storage hatch with a cover and a bungee cord security system. This makes for a nice place to store larger bits of gear while the front deck bungee is ideal for gear that you need quick access to on the water.

The final key features of this boat include a molded cup holder within the cockpit and a side paddle keeper system. Combined, these two features allow you to sit back and take a break on the water without the fear of losing your paddle.

Performance

As a recreational kayak, the Guster 10 boasts a relatively rounded hull design, which is ideal from a primary stability perspective.

This hull also provides improved maneuverability, especially in conjunction with the internal heavy-duty adjustable foot braces, which are essential for controlling the boat.

Additionally, the Guster 10 has an ST Performance hull design, which means it has a slight chine toward the bow and the stern. As a result, it tracks better than you would normally expect for a boat this size with such a flat hull.

At the same time, this slight chine doesn’t offer too much secondary stability. Therefore, the Guster 10 is in its element when used on mostly flat water in sheltered locales for a fun paddle with friends and family.