Pelican Kayaks offers a diverse range of options for recreational paddlers, and two of their most popular models are the Trailblazer and the Mustang. Both kayaks are designed with beginner and intermediate paddlers in mind, providing stability, comfort, and ease of use. However, they cater to different needs and preferences when it comes to design, performance, and features. In this comparison, we will break down the key differences and similarities between the Pelican Trailblazer and Mustang to help you decide which one is the right choice for your next kayaking adventure.
Key Differences Between Pelican Trailblazer and Mustang
| Feature | Pelican Trailblazer | Pelican Mustang |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 10 feet | 12 feet |
| Weight | 38 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Material | RAM-X polyethylene | RAM-X polyethylene |
| Capacity | 275 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Hull Design | Twin-arched multi-chine hull | Tunnel hull with multi-chine design |
| Seating | Ergonomic molded seat | Adjustable, padded seat with backrest |
| Storage | Rear storage hatch with bungee cords | Large rear tank well with bungee cords |
| Performance | Ideal for calm waters | Great for calm to moderate waters |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Mid-range |
1. Design and Build Quality
Pelican Trailblazer
The Trailblazer is a compact and lightweight kayak, making it ideal for beginners and those who prioritize portability. It uses RAM-X polyethylene, a durable material known for its resistance to impacts and UV damage. The twin-arched multi-chine hull provides excellent primary stability, making it easy to get in and out of the kayak, even for first-time users. While the Trailblazer is designed for calm waters, its structure ensures that it can handle light currents and gentle winds with ease.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang is a slightly larger kayak with a tunnel hull design combined with multi-chine technology. This gives the Mustang superior tracking and stability, making it ideal for a variety of water conditions, from calm lakes to slightly choppier rivers. The RAM-X polyethylene construction of the Mustang provides the same durability as the Trailblazer but with the added benefit of a longer hull, which improves its ability to maintain a straight course over longer distances. The Mustang is slightly heavier, which adds rigidity and can improve performance in slightly rougher conditions.
2. Weight and Portability
Pelican Trailblazer
At approximately 38 lbs, the Trailblazer is lightweight and easy to transport. This kayak is suitable for solo paddlers who need to load and unload the kayak by themselves, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to invest in a roof rack or require minimal assistance when getting their kayak to the water.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang weighs around 50 lbs, making it considerably heavier than the Trailblazer. While it may require a bit more effort to carry, the added weight gives the Mustang a more rigid and stable feel on the water. This extra weight may be a disadvantage for those who prioritize portability, but it is a small trade-off for the enhanced performance and stability the Mustang provides.
3. Hull Design and Stability
Pelican Trailblazer
The twin-arched multi-chine hull of the Trailblazer delivers a great balance of stability and maneuverability, especially for paddlers who are just starting out. The hull ensures that the kayak remains stable while at rest and provides a smooth, predictable ride when paddling. The Trailblazer is best suited for calm lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers where ease of use and stability are more important than speed or tracking ability.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang features a tunnel hull design that enhances both tracking and stability. This design is great for paddlers who want a kayak that handles well in a variety of conditions, including slightly rougher waters. While still offering excellent stability, the Mustang has a more dynamic feel on the water, making it ideal for those who want to explore more diverse waterways. Its hull design allows for better gliding and more efficient paddling, which is especially noticeable when covering longer distances.
4. Seating and Comfort
Pelican Trailblazer
The Trailblazer comes equipped with an ergonomic molded seat that offers basic comfort for short trips. It provides a good amount of back support for casual paddlers, though it may not offer the same level of comfort for longer excursions. The simplicity of the seating system makes the Trailblazer easy to maintain, but it may not have the advanced adjustments or padding found in higher-end models.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang features an adjustable, padded seat with a backrest, making it more comfortable for extended paddling sessions. The seat is designed to offer lumbar support, and its adjustability helps users find the perfect position for long trips. The Mustang’s seating system is more advanced compared to the Trailblazer’s, making it the better choice for paddlers who plan on spending more time on the water.
5. Storage
Pelican Trailblazer
The Trailblazer comes with a rear storage hatch equipped with bungee cords, providing enough space for small gear, coolers, or dry bags. The open design allows for quick and easy access to your belongings, though it may not be as secure as the Mustang’s storage options. For day trips and casual paddlers, the Trailblazer’s storage is sufficient to meet basic needs.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang has a large rear tank well with bungee cords, offering more spacious and secure storage. This feature allows paddlers to carry more gear, including larger items like coolers or fishing equipment. The tank well provides a higher level of storage security, making it ideal for longer trips or for those who need to bring extra equipment.
6. Price Comparison
Pelican Trailblazer
The Trailblazer is priced more affordably than the Mustang, making it an excellent option for those on a budget or new to the sport. Typically priced between $300 and $400, it provides a great value for its features, durability, and ease of use.
Pelican Mustang
The Mustang is a mid-range kayak priced between $500 and $600. The higher price reflects its larger size, more advanced hull design, and improved seating system, making it a better option for those who want a more performance-oriented kayak for longer trips or varied water conditions.
Pros and Cons
Pelican Trailblazer
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and easy to transport | Less storage space compared to the Mustang |
| Excellent stability for beginners | Basic seating, not ideal for long trips |
| Budget-friendly | Limited performance in rougher conditions |
Pelican Mustang
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for varied water conditions | Heavier than the Trailblazer |
| Comfortable seating for longer trips | More expensive than the Trailblazer |
| More storage space and better tracking | May require more effort to transport |
Which Kayak Should You Choose?
Choose Pelican Trailblazer If:
- You are a beginner or casual paddler looking for an affordable, lightweight kayak.
- You mainly plan to paddle on calm lakes and rivers.
- Portability and ease of storage are important to you.
Choose Pelican Mustang If:
- You are looking for a more advanced kayak that performs well in a variety of water conditions.
- You need more storage space for longer trips or additional gear.
- You prefer a more comfortable seating system for extended paddling.
Conclusion
Both the Pelican Trailblazer and Pelican Mustang are excellent kayaks that cater to different needs. The Trailblazer is perfect for those who want a simple, budget-friendly kayak for short paddles on calm waters, while the Mustang offers better performance, comfort, and storage for more serious paddlers. By considering your paddling style, water conditions, and budget, you can choose the model that best suits your needs and enhances your kayaking experience.