Lifetime Payette 98

Size and Weight

Measuring up at 9’8” (294.6cm), the Lifetime Payette 98 is fairly short from a recreational sit-in kayak point of view. While this shorter length detracts from the boat’s tracking ability in the water, it greatly increases its portability to and from your put-in location.

Moreover, the Payette 98 has a 30” (76.2cm) width and a 14” (35.6cm) deck height. Although the width on this boat is fairly big for a kayak this size, the deck height is on the shorter end of the spectrum. This means added stability, but less interior space, which might be problematic for larger paddlers.

At a weight of 44lbs (20kg), this kayak is very portable, even if you don’t have a buddy to help you put it on your car. Even though you can certainly find lighter boats out there, overall, the size and weight of the Payette 98 is very reasonable.

Capacity

The Payette 98 has a maximum weight capacity of 250lbs (113.4kg). If we take into account that one shouldn’t load a boat beyond 80% of its stated weight maximum, this kayak is best for anyone under about 200lbs (90.7kg).

Since the boat has a fairly low deck height and, thus, limited interior space, it’s best used by smaller paddlers. Overall, while it offers enough weight capacity and leg room for relatively small individuals, the Payette 98 might feel tight for anyone above 5’9” (175.3cm).

Features

Although it’s fairly budget friendly, Lifetime did build the Payette 98 with some functional features.

It includes a fully adjustable seat back for added lumbar support as you paddle. Moreover, the boat comes with multiple foot rest positions for added control over the boat for paddlers of different sizes.

To the rear, the kayak has a large enclosed compartment that can be used for gear storage. While this compartment isn’t designed to be water-tight it does have a lid and a shock cord strap for securing your gear.

Other great features include a paddle keeper system with shock corded straps. This makes it easier to keep track of your paddle, even if you stop for an extended break while on the water.

Performance

Lifetime designed this kayak with fair weather fun and newer paddlers in mind.

It features a wide, rounded hull for ample primary stability on calm water. Like all boats with a rounded hull and a rounded chine, this also means minimal secondary stability in choppy conditions. So, the Payette 98 is best for use on flat water in sheltered areas where wind isn’t a major concern.

As far as tracking goes, the Payette 98’s shorter length limits its ability to hold a steady course over long distances.

To help improve the boat’s tracking ability, Lifetime built it with deep tracking channels and a sharp keep. Although this offers a slight increase in tracking ability, one shouldn’t expect this kayak to track as well as a substantially longer boat.

While this shorter length and rounded hull mean limited tracking prowess and secondary stability, it also means improved maneuverability in tricky terrain.

Ultimately, the Payette 98’s performance characteristics make it an ideal boat for someone looking to improve their paddling skills while having fun in beautiful weather conditions.