Ocean Kayak Venus 10

Size, weight, capacity

The Venus 10 is 9 ft. 10 in. (3 m) long and 28 in. (71.1 cm) wide. These smaller dimensions make the kayak as streamlined as possible to keep it at cruising speed on longer days.

With smaller kayaks, weight is of utmost importance. Weighing in at 37 lbs. (16.8 kg), the Venus is easy to move around on the water and can be paddled for long days with minimum fatigue. On the land, these are equally easy to move around in pairs and can be top loaded without hassle.

The capacity of 175 lbs (79.4 kg) is not exactly impressive but should be sufficient for smaller paddlers that the Venus is intended for.

Features

The low profile deck of the Venus 10 is specifically designed for smaller paddlers, making it easy for them to reach over the side and paddle without overreaching. These low sides combine well with the low weight to make the Venus a cruising kayak which doesn’t exhaust the paddler.

The seat in the Venus features a wide high back system which is adjustable, so it supports and cushions paddlers of all shapes. The seat pad itself gives the paddler a comfortable and connected position, which is heightened by the multiple footwell options, allowing you to quickly change and engage your position to generate more power and control.

The bow of the Venus has enough coverage that when it’s crashing through the waves, it doesn’t take on water, but instead displaces the water and keeps the kayak light and easy to maneuver. This front deck has bungee deck lines to store equipment that you need accessible on the water. Behind the paddler, there is a small tank well, secured with bungee, that can hold some fishing or camping gear.

Center, side handles and bow and stern toggles give you an easy way to move the kayak around on land and for car topping. A screw in drain bung and a skid plate finish off the features, allowing you to displace water and protect the underside of your kayak.

Performance

The Venus is an incredibly popular sit-on-top kayak which fits smaller framed paddlers. Even before hitting the water, you’ll be impressed with how easy it is to lift on and off the car. Once you get it on the water, the lightweight and low profile design makes it super easy to move around and maneuver. Some lightweight kayaks lack tracking prowess, sitting too high in the water. Venus has been thought out, though, and tracks effectively in windy conditions. This hull design and narrow profile help it carry speed, too.

All in all, this is a nippy kayak which works as a recreational tourer. The features are relatively basic but suited to the environment and don’t overcomplicate things, with enough space to store all your gear for a long day on the water.