As I watched the waves crash against the rocky shoreline and my only dry option of making it back to my truck, I could only hope and pray that the kayak didn’t pop. I would soon learn that this inflatable kayak was more durable than traditional pool floaties, and I had nothing to worry about as I continued exploring the shoreline.
As the prices of everything continue to rise at ridiculous rates, I understand why so many people are unwilling to spend money on high-end kayaks. Not everyone is a kayak fishing nerd, like me. Some people just need a simple kayak to paddle around for a while and then head home. The Retrospec Coaster is that kayak, if you can overlook some of the flaws that I discovered while testing it over the last several months.
In short: The Retrospec Coaster Single Inflatable Kayak ($450) is a solid budget-friendly option. It lacks the bells and whistles of high-end use-specific kayaks, but makes up for it in versatility and surprising comfort. It’s ideal for the occasional paddler, but I wouldn’t recommend it for the serious kayak angler.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Lightweight
- Easy to transport
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Doesn’t track straight
- Strange/uncommon valves
- Low weight capacity
- OK at most things, not great at anything
Retrospec Coaster Review
As I unboxed the Retrospec Coaster Single for the first time, I appreciated how compact and lightweight it was with everything in the backpack-style carrying case. It’s easy to transport in any vehicle (yes, it’d probably even fit in a Smart Car) and carry to the hard-to-reach, secluded spots. I also like that it comes with everything (except a PFD) you need to get on the water, and it all fits in the carrying case.
My least favorite part of inflatable kayaks and paddleboards is having to inflate and deflate them, because it takes up time that I could be on the water. However, the Retrospec Coaster inflates quickly (within a few minutes if you pump steadily) with the dual-action air pump.
Speaking of inflating it, the first time I did so, I noticed that Retrospec used different valves than any of the other inflatable kayaks I’ve paddled (and I’ve paddled a lot), including other Retrospec inflatables. The tube and floor valves are identical, but the seat valve is smaller and requires an adapter change to inflate it.
This isn’t a big deal, especially if this is your only inflatable kayak, because they provide the needed adapters, but I found it a little frustrating for someone with multiple inflatable kayaks.
Build Quality
If you’re worried about this cheap inflatable kayak popping the first time you hit a sharp rock or stick, don’t be. Retrospec built it with heavy-duty polyester, so it’s durable and puncture-resistant. In fact, Retrospec brags that you can bring your dog paddling because the 1000D heavy-duty tarpaulin PVC tubes and floor are protected by 600D Oxford polyester.
I’ve dragged it across gravel parking lots, rocky shorelines, sharp sticks, and fished from it without popping it. I’ve even committed the biggest no-no of them all and stored it in my truck for weeks at a time. I definitely don’t recommend that. I only did it for testing purposes, and you should always store it in a temperature-controlled dark area.
On-the-Water-Performance
When I hit the water for the first time, I immediately noticed it didn’t track straight. I installed the three fins and expected it to paddle like it was on tracks with them in. Instead, I zig-zagged across the calm cove at the lake, forced to correct my direction with every paddle stroke. I might have gained some freedom, but I expended a lot of unnecessary energy to do so.
I paddled on and realized that, though it initially felt tippy, I wasn’t close to flipping the kayak, which gave me a lot of comfort when the wind began picking up. After paddling for about a mile away from my truck, I was surprised that I was still comfortable. The odd footrest and seat were outperforming my expectations, keeping my butt, back, and legs from hurting.
The wind continued to increase, and the waves went from a little choppy to near-whitecaps, so I decided to call it a day. I couldn’t stop paddling for a second on my way back; otherwise, the wind would turn me sideways and push me away from my intended destination. I’ve had this problem with most other inflatable kayaks because of the high sides, so it wasn’t a surprise.
The next trip was a short fishing trip to my pond. I wanted to see if I could fish from it, even though it’s not designed for fishing.
Spoiler alert: You can fish from it, but it’s far from ideal. I’ve been spoiled by high-end fishing kayaks, so switching back to a recreational kayak is challenging but doable.
What the Coaster Single Does Well
The Retrospec Coaster doesn’t do any single thing great, but it does everything. It’s a good choice for paddling on your favorite body of water, a short (1- to 2-day) kayak camping trip, and quick kayak fishing trips.
It’s surprisingly comfortable and durable for how inexpensive it is. I’ve paddled more costly kayaks that were much less comfortable. While I wouldn’t stand in this kayak, it’s stable enough to handle some small rapids on the creeks and rivers that you’ll encounter on your adventures.
Where I See Room for Improvement
As an angler, I would love to see a fishing-oriented design, but at this price point, I doubt that’s possible. As a paddler, I would like it if the valves were kept the same as in other kayaks, on the floor, sides, and seat.
The one improvement that would drastically improve paddling quality is getting this kayak to track straight. The last improvement is even trickier since it’s a small kayak, but increasing the weight capacity so larger people can use it safely (or we can haul more gear).
Who Should Buy It
The Retrospec Coaster is perfect for the occasional paddler who doesn’t have a big kayak budget, room to store a kayak, or a large vehicle to transport a kayak. If you’re just getting into kayaking or want a versatile little kayak, this inflatable kayak is a good option. It’s capable of paddling on flat water, in slightly windy conditions, and handling small rapids.
If you want a larger (more expensive) option, check out the Retrospec Coaster Tandem to accommodate an additional paddler or more gear.
Retrospec Coaster Single Review: Final Verdict
Overall, I’m impressed by the Coaster’s price, transportability, versatility, durability, and comfort. However, the inability to track straight and low weight capacity will frustrate many paddlers, as it did me. While the Retrospec Coaster Single Inflatable Kayak outperforms most in this price range, it won’t replace my high-end fishing kayaks.
