Pelican Bandit NXT 100 Kayak Review

The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is a versatile kayak that offers both beginners and intermediate paddlers an ideal balance of stability, maneuverability, and comfort. Known for its affordability and ease of use, this kayak stands out as a popular choice for those who seek adventures in calm lakes, rivers, and gentle coastal areas. In this review, we will delve into every aspect of the Pelican Bandit NXT 100, highlighting the features that make it a top contender for those seeking quality on a budget.

Build and Design Quality

The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is crafted from high-density polyethylene, a lightweight yet durable material resistant to impact and wear. This Thermoformed Technology construction ensures the kayak remains sturdy even after years of exposure to different water conditions. The build is designed to withstand scratches and minor impacts, making it highly suitable for casual paddlers who occasionally encounter rocky areas or shallow waters.

Additionally, this kayak boasts a compact 10-foot length, which provides a manageable size for transportation and storage while still maintaining ample space for the paddler and gear. With a weight of just 39 lbs, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is an ideal choice for those who need to carry and load their kayak solo.

Stability and Control

The multi-chine hull design of the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 contributes significantly to its stability, a key factor for beginner paddlers who may still be gaining confidence on the water. This hull structure offers an impressive level of balance, helping paddlers feel secure, especially in calm to moderately turbulent waters. The flat-bottom design also increases stability while keeping the kayak relatively shallow for easy access in and out.

For those interested in fishing or leisurely paddling, the kayak’s stability makes it ideal, allowing users to enjoy calm activities without feeling at risk of tipping over. The easy maneuverability provided by the compact frame also makes it a breeze to navigate through winding rivers and narrow channels.

Comfort and Seating

Comfort plays a critical role in a paddler’s experience, and the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 doesn’t disappoint. The adjustable ERGOFORM™ padded backrest provides essential lumbar support, while the seat is designed to minimize fatigue on longer trips. This feature is particularly advantageous for paddlers who plan on spending extended hours exploring the water, as it provides a much-needed relief from back strain and discomfort.

With molded footrests, paddlers of various heights can comfortably position themselves, ensuring a more personalized fit. These multiple footrest positions make this kayak accessible to a broader audience, catering to both tall and shorter users, which enhances the overall comfort and usability of the Pelican Bandit NXT 100.

Storage and Capacity

Although compact, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is designed with functionality in mind, offering storage solutions for essential gear. The open rear tank well comes equipped with bungee cords to secure items like dry bags, coolers, or fishing gear, providing paddlers with easy access to their belongings. Additionally, the front and rear T-handles make carrying and loading the kayak more convenient.

This kayak has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, which accommodates an average adult paddler and additional gear comfortably. For solo paddlers, this weight limit provides ample space for storage, making it a convenient option for day trips where extra equipment or supplies are necessary.

Performance on Water

The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is particularly well-suited for flatwater paddling, where its maneuverability shines. With its shorter length, it responds quickly to directional changes, making it ideal for navigating narrow waterways and gentle rivers. However, it’s worth noting that the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is designed with calmer waters in mind and may not perform as effectively in open ocean conditions or during rough weather.

This kayak’s responsive steering is ideal for leisurely explorations, fishing, and casual paddling activities, giving users full control while on the water. For paddlers who prefer a stable, user-friendly kayak over one built for speed, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is a strong contender.

Durability and Maintenance

Thanks to its RAM-X™ material, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is built to withstand abrasions and minor impacts, which is a boon for those new to kayaking who might encounter bumps along their learning journey. This material is also resistant to sun damage, adding to the longevity of the kayak, especially when stored outdoors.

For maintenance, simply rinsing with fresh water after use and avoiding prolonged sun exposure can help preserve the kayak’s quality. Given the durable build, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is designed for minimal upkeep, allowing more time on the water and less time on maintenance.

Pros of Pelican Bandit NXT 100

• Affordable and Accessible: Great entry-level price point for beginner paddlers.
• Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry, transport, and load without assistance.
• Comfortable Design: ERGOFORM™ padded seat and multiple footrests for various heights.
• Stable on Water: Multi-chine hull provides excellent stability, especially for flatwater conditions.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-density polyethylene and RAM-X™ material for longevity.

Cons of Pelican Bandit NXT 100

• Limited Speed: Not designed for high-speed paddling or advanced users seeking performance kayaks.
• Best for Calm Waters: Limited effectiveness in rougher waters or open ocean conditions.
• No Enclosed Storage: Open tank wells rather than enclosed compartments, which may be a drawback for longer trips requiring waterproof storage.

Is the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 Worth It?

The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is a highly practical and accessible option for recreational paddlers. Designed with ease of use and comfort in mind, it’s a reliable kayak for calm waters, perfect for users who value stability and want an enjoyable experience on the water without committing to a high-priced or advanced kayak.

While it may not meet the needs of paddlers looking for high-performance or ocean-ready kayaks, the Pelican Bandit NXT 100 certainly delivers on its promise of offering a budget-friendly, stable, and user-friendly kayak suitable for a range of leisurely activities. The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 is more than a kayak; it’s a gateway to peaceful adventures on the water, providing lasting memories for beginners and intermediate paddlers alike.