Sun Dolphin Capri 10 SS

Size and Weight 

The Sun Dolphin Capri 10 SS measures 10 feet / 305 cm in length, 28.5 inches / 72 cm in width, and stands 14 inches / 36 cm in height. 

Although it weighs a mere 44 lbs / 20 kg, it is a little heavier than other recreational kayaks of the same length like the Pelican Spirit 100 which weighs 36 lbs / 16.3 kg, or the Liquidlogic Marvel 10 which weighs 42 lbs / 19 kg. 

Nevertheless, the narrow width and relatively light weight mean the Capri 10 SS is easily handled by one person, especially with the side carrying handles. 

Capacity

The Capri 10 SS has a maximum payload of 250 lbs / 113 kg, the same as the Liquidlogic Marvel 10. The capacity is a touch less than the Pelican Spirit rated for 275 lbs / 125 lbs. 

However, loading the Capri past 80% of its maximum (200 lbs / 91 kg) might cause the kayak to lose its speed and maneuverability significantly. 

Features

Like other Sun Dolphin kayaks, the Capri 10 SS is made of durable UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene (HDPE). 

Built to last, it can withstand dings and knocks with the best of them, but if you are intending to drag your kayak around while transporting or launching, you might want to invest in a hull guard. 

At the bow, you’ll find a t-handle for easy carrying and transporting. In addition, there is the first drain plug which you can use to rid the kayak of any excess water that might have gotten into the hull.

Further down the kayak, there will be two adjustable foot braces to suit kayakers of many sizes. However, those taller than 6 feet / 183 cm might find it a little awkward with the inadequate leg room.

On the main deck, inside the cockpit, there is a cup holder that can be secured with a bungee and a waterproof circular hatch that can be used to store valuables like phones and wallets. However, the hatch has been known to leak, so you might want to treat it as a water-resistant compartment.

On both sides of the seat on the gunnels are side carrying handles so you can lift the kayak from side to side instead of the usual front and back.

On the port side handle is a built-in paddle park system for you to secure your paddle onto a j-hook with a bungee when you aren’t using it. There are also grooves on the gunnels where you can place your paddle for a short time without it pitching or rolling forward toward the bow. 

The seat’s backrest is padded and adjustable so you can tailor the angle according to your personal preferences. However, the seat’s bottom is not padded so you might need to get additional cushioning, especially if your butt is particularly sensitive to hard surfaces! 

Just after the seat towards the stern is a roomy storage compartment where you can stow dry bags and secure them with the removable bungee tie-down system. 

At the stern is the second t-handle for carrying and transportation as well as an additional drain plug. 

Performance 

The Capri 10 SS is designed for the casual paddler that wants a fun day out. Compact, and stable, the kayak is easy to move from your garage to the top of your car or your vehicle to the lake. 

A good thing about the Capri is its maneuverability. At 10 feet long, it is surprisingly responsive and will handle tight turns admirably.

Being light and sitting relatively high above the waterline, it isn’t the best at tracking but the diminutive profile comes in handy if you need to portage over logs or fallen trees. 

It doesn’t handle big waves and strong winds very well and will suit casual paddles around calm lakes or gentle rivers better. The open cockpit makes entries and exits easy, but be prepared to make some modifications if you want to get more comfortable, especially if you are heading out for a full day.

The storage area is adequate for a day’s supply of food, water, and gear, but this kayak wouldn’t be the best at hauling camping gear for an overnight trip. 

All in all, the Capri 10 SS will suit smaller, beginner paddlers with light gear and would not suit larger paddlers that want more capacity to haul gear. It will not be an ideal boat for touring or long-distance paddling, but for the casual jaunt around a calm lake for a few hours, it is an affordable, reliable choice.