Old Town Canoes & Kayaks: Your Ultimate Guide for Paddling Adventures
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks is a renowned brand in the world of watercraft, known for its high-quality and durable products that cater to various types of paddling preferences. Established in 1898, the company has continually committed to blending traditional designs with modern innovations, making it popular among water enthusiasts across the globe.
Their extensive range of canoes and kayaks cater to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned paddlers. Some popular models include the Ocean Kayak Malibu Series, Sportsman AutoPilot 120, Loon 106, and Saranac Series among others. With options for solo or tandem paddling, and even square-stern designs for motor mounting, Old Town Canoes & Kayaks ensures that there is a suitable watercraft for every adventure.
History of Old Town Canoes & Kayaks
Old Town Canoe Company
The Old Town Canoe Company has a rich history that dates back to 1898 in Old Town, Maine. Originally named the Indian Old Town Canoe Company, it went through a short partnership as the Robertson Old Town Canoe Company before establishing itself as the Old Town Canoe Company. They specialized in canvas-covered wooden canoes, innovating the market.
Acquisition by Johnson Outdoors
In the early 1970s, Old Town Canoe introduced Royalex, an AS composite plastic, allowing them to compete with Grumman's aluminum canoes. This innovation caught the attention of S.C. Johnson, who purchased the Old Town Canoe Company in 1974. After the acquisition, the company continued to expand its product line and eventually ventured into kayaks.
Heritage and Evolution
Old Town Canoe and Kayak takes pride in its Northeast heritage and commitment to quality craftsmanship. Even while evolving with changing technologies and materials, they still maintain the essence of their century-old origins.
- In 1995, Old Town Canoe made their first kayaks.
- By 2000, they produced more kayaks than canoes.
- They have transitioned from wood to polyethylene plastic canoes for better durability and low maintenance requirements.
The company's dedication to crafting quality watercraft and continued innovation has made them a revered global leader in canoes and kayaks.
Types of Canoes and Kayaks
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks offers a wide variety of canoes and kayaks to suit different paddling styles and preferences. In this section, we will discuss the types of canoes and kayaks they provide, focusing on solo canoes, tandem canoes, recreational kayaks, and fishing kayaks.
Solo Canoes
Old Town offers a range of solo canoes designed for single paddlers. One popular option is the Discovery 119 canoe, providing a lightweight and compact solution for those who enjoy paddling alone. These solo canoes are designed with stability, maneuverability, and ease of use in mind, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Tandem Canoes
For those who prefer to paddle with a partner or additional gear, Old Town offers tandem canoes such as the Saranac 146 and Discovery 169. These canoes provide ample space and load capacity so you can comfortably explore the waterways with a friend or family member. Their designs focus on stability, durability, and versatility, making them suitable for various types of paddling adventures.
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks from Old Town include models like the Sorrento 106sk and Loon 106. These kayaks are designed for comfort and ease of use, featuring adjustable seating and foot braces for a customized fit. They are suitable for a wide range of paddlers, and their stability and easy-to-handle designs make them an excellent choice for those new to kayaking or those looking for a relaxed paddling experience.
Fishing Kayaks
Old Town has an extensive lineup of fishing kayaks, including the Topwater 120 PDL and Sportsman Big Water Pedal 132. These kayaks are specially designed for anglers and include features such as rod holders, tackle storage, and pedal-driven propulsion systems that allow for hands-free fishing. They also offer stability, comfort, and excellent tracking, making it easier to focus on casting and reeling in your catch.
To sum up, Old Town Canoes & Kayaks offers a range of options for paddlers, whether they're looking to paddle solo or tandem in a canoe, explore the waterways in a recreational kayak or fish from a specialized fishing kayak. With their focus on quality, stability, and versatility, there's an Old Town canoe or kayak suited for every paddling adventure.
Popular Models and Series
Penobscot
The Penobscot series by Old Town Canoes & Kayaks is known for its performance and durability in the water. These canoes are designed for paddlers seeking versatility and efficiency. The Penobscot's sharp entry lines and a shallow arch bottom ensure smooth glide and straight tracking, making it suitable for a variety of water conditions.
Discovery
The Discovery series is a well-rounded selection of canoes that cater to a wide range of paddling needs. Some popular models in this series include the Discovery 119, Discovery 169, and Discovery 133. These models are notable for their versatility and ability to handle various water conditions. The Discovery Sport 15 is a specific model known for its stability and suitability for sportsmen activities, such as hunting or fishing.
Saranac
The Saranac series consists of comfortable, family-friendly canoes designed for calm and relaxed paddling. The Saranac 146 is a popular model in this series, providing a stable and efficient ride. With features like molded-in rod holders and cup holders, plus ample storage space, the Saranac series is perfect for recreational use and day trips.
Sportsman
Old Town's Sportsman series is tailored to cater to the needs of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some key models include the Sportsman Salty PDL 120 and Sportsman Discovery Solo 119. Designed for fishing and hunting, these canoes come equipped with features such as pedal-drive systems, rod holders, and customizable accessory tracks, making them ideal for sportsmen who require specialized functionality.
Loon
The Loon series is Old Town's line of kayaks, featuring a comfortable and adjustable seat, a removable work deck, and ample storage. The Loon 106 is a top choice for recreational kayaking, offering a stable and efficient ride in various water conditions due to its compact size, sharp entry lines, and shallow arch bottom.
Materials and Construction
Wood-Canvas Canoes
Wood-canvas canoes are made from a wooden frame covered with a durable, water-resistant canvas. These traditional canoes are known for their beauty and craftsmanship. They are aesthetic, lightweight, and offer a quiet paddling experience. Care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of wood-canvas canoes.
Fiberglass Canoes
Fiberglass canoes are made by combining a woven fiberglass mat with resin, which is then molded into shape. They are durable, lightweight, and require less maintenance than wood-canvas canoes. Fiberglass canoes offer a smooth and efficient paddling experience. Old Town adopted fiberglass as a material in their canoes in the past but has since shifted to other materials.
Aluminum Canoes
Aluminum canoes are made from sheets of aluminum alloy, which are shaped and welded together. These canoes are known for their durability and low-maintenance requirements. However, they can be noisy during paddling and don't insulate against cold water as effectively as other materials.
Polyethylene Canoes and Kayaks
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks now exclusively build their canoes and kayaks using polyethylene plastic. This material is appreciated for its durability and low-maintenance requirements. However, it does have a higher weight compared to other materials. Polyethylene canoes and kayaks are available in various models, including the Discovery 158 canoe.
Old Town also has exclusive materials like CrossLink3, which is used in their Discovery line of canoes, and PolyLink™, a foam-core material that is durable, stiff, and inexpensive. Both of these materials offer excellent performance in the water.
In summary, the materials and construction of Old Town Canoes & Kayaks include a range of options like wood-canvas, fiberglass, aluminum, and polyethylene. These materials cater to the needs and preferences of diverse paddling enthusiasts, with each offering unique benefits and experiences on the water.
Features and Accessories
Seats
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks offer a variety of seating systems that extend beyond traditional bench seats, providing lumbar support with their backrests. This enhances the overall comfort and stability for paddlers during their water adventures. The seats are designed to accommodate both canoe and kayak users.
Gunwales
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks feature strong and durable gunwales that provide structural support and rigidity to the boat. The gunwales are designed to withstand the pressures and forces experienced during paddling, ensuring the boat's integrity and longevity. They also aid in attachment points for various accessories such as paddle holders, rod holders, and more.
Hull Design
The hull designs of Old Town canoes and kayaks are wide and flat, offering remarkable stability in flat water conditions. This design makes them suitable for various activities like fishing, camping, and recreational paddling. The versatile hull design also allows for increased maneuverability and enhanced tracking for more experienced paddlers.
Paddles and PFDs
Paddles are a crucial part of any paddling experience, and Old Town offers a selection of paddles to suit different paddling styles and preferences. The paddles are available in various materials, including aluminum and lightweight carbon fiber. Old Town also offers personal floatation devices (PFDs) designed for maximum comfort, safety, and ease of movement during paddling outings.
Other Accessories
In addition to seats, gunwales, hull designs, paddles, and PFDs, Old Town Canoes & Kayaks offer a range of other accessories to enhance the overall paddling experience. Some of these accessories include travel and storage solutions, such as canoe and kayak carts, straps, and covers. Furthermore, they provide customizable options like fishing rod holders, anchor systems, and gear mounts to cater to the specific needs of individual paddlers.
Quality and Warranty
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks is a well-known brand with a reputation for producing high-quality watercraft. They focus on using top-notch materials, such as polyethylene plastic for constructing their canoes and kayaks. This material is known for its durability, which requires very little maintenance, making it a popular choice among canoe enthusiasts.
In addition to their commitment to quality materials, Old Town takes pride in manufacturing all their products within the United States. Their main production facility is located in Old Town, Maine. This enables the company to ensure high standards and maintain strict quality control over their products.
When it comes to the warranty, Old Town provides an impressive limited lifetime warranty for their canoes and kayaks. Customers seeking more information about warranty details, claim notices, or warranty services can contact Old Town directly at their Gilman Falls Ave. Bldg. in Old Town, Maine, or call them at 800-343-1555.
Some of the key features of Old Town's canoes and kayaks that demonstrate their commitment to quality include:
- Use of polyethylene plastic for durability and low maintenance
- Manufactured in the United States to maintain high standards
- Limited lifetime warranty on their canoes and kayaks
By focusing on these aspects, Old Town Canoes & Kayaks ensures that customers receive products that are not only built to last, but also come with a reliable warranty for added peace of mind.
Old Town vs Competitors
Wenonah
Wenonah is another prominent canoe and kayak manufacturer in the market. While Old Town focuses on creating budget-friendly and well-built boats, Wenonah emphasizes lightweight, high-performance canoes and kayaks. Wenonah utilizes advanced materials like Kevlar and carbon fiber in their manufacturing process, which creates a lighter and more efficient watercraft.
Mad River
Mad River is known for innovative designs and quality construction. Both Old Town and Mad River offer a selection of recreational and touring canoes, but Mad River generally focuses on producing canoes featuring versatile hull shapes, which adapt to various water conditions, providing a more agile and responsive experience for paddlers.
Grumman
Grumman is known for its durable and rugged aluminum canoes. While both Old Town and Grumman provide stable and durable boats, Grumman canoes are generally heavier than Old Town's offerings. Many paddlers appreciate the long-lasting and low-maintenance aspects of Grumman's aluminum canoes, making them a popular choice for rental fleets and rugged expedition use.
Pelican
Pelican is a Canadian company that specializes in affordable recreational kayaks and canoes. In comparison to Old Town, Pelican tends to focus more on entry-level boats with simple designs and fewer features. However, both companies cater to budget-conscious paddlers seeking reliable and easy-to-use paddlecraft options.
Hobie
Hobie is renowned for its pedal-driven Mirage Drive kayaks. While Old Town offers traditional paddling solutions, Hobie's innovative hands-free propulsion system sets it apart from its competitors. Hobie's Mirage Drive kayaks are popular among anglers and recreational paddlers who appreciate the convenience and efficiency of the pedal-driven system.
Jackson Kayak
Jackson Kayak specializes in whitewater kayaking and fishing kayaks, with a focus on high-performance designs and outfitting. Unlike Old Town, which generally offers more budget-friendly options, Jackson Kayak's boats come at a higher price point but provide a range of technical features and performance benefits, appealing to paddlers who prioritize performance and customization.
Necky
Necky Kayaks, now under the Old Town umbrella, was once a standalone brand known for its sleek touring and sea kayaks. Necky's designs are often more streamlined and performance-oriented than the broader Old Town offerings, catering to advanced and expedition paddlers seeking efficient, long-distance touring kayaks.
Perception
Perception is a brand that offers a wide variety of recreational and touring kayaks, making them a direct competitor of Old Town Kayaks. Both companies have a long history of producing reliable and budget-friendly boats, with Perception catering to a slightly more performance-oriented market segment in comparison.
Wilderness Systems
Wilderness Systems is known for its comfortable and feature-rich recreational and touring kayaks. While Old Town offers a broader range of budget-focused boats, Wilderness Systems concentrates more on premium quality, ergonomic seating, and outfitting options. This results in kayaks that may come at a higher price point, but appeal to paddlers seeking comfort and customizable features for longer outings on the water.
Buying and Selling Old Town Canoes & Kayaks
Paddling Buyer's Guide
When looking to buy an Old Town canoe or kayak, it's essential to consider the type and purpose of the watercraft. The Paddling Magazine offers a comprehensive buyer's guide for choosing the right Old Town canoe or kayak. By navigating their website, you can gain valuable insights on various sizes and styles of Old Town canoes, solo and tripping options, and advice for beginners.
Old Town Canoe Parts
If you need replacement parts for your Old Town canoe or kayak, visit the Old Town website to shop for a large selection of parts and accessories. You can find a wide range of items, such as paddles, life jackets, and other accessories. They also offer customer support in case you need assistance choosing the right parts for your specific canoe or kayak model.
Finding Used Canoes and Kayaks
When searching for used Old Town canoes or kayaks, popular platforms like Craigslist and Kijiji can be helpful. Another option is to browse eBay listings for used canoes and kayaks from Old Town. Always inspect the item's condition, and read the description carefully to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Determining Value
To determine the value of a used Old Town canoe or kayak, consider the following factors:
- Age and model of the canoe or kayak
- Material: Old Town uses rotomolded polyethylene for their kayaks, ensuring durability
- Condition: Check for any damage, repair work, or signs of wear and tear
- Availability of original parts and accessories
By considering these factors and comparing prices of similar models, you can make an informed decision when buying or selling a used Old Town canoe or kayak. Remember, a well-maintained canoe or kayak can provide years of enjoyment on the water, making Old Town watercraft a worthy investment.
Activities and Destinations
Canoeing and Kayaking in Penobscot River
The Penobscot River in Maine is a popular destination for paddling enthusiasts looking for a thrilling and scenic experience. Both canoes and kayaks can navigate its diverse waterways, offering different levels of challenges for paddlers with various skills. Old Town Canoes & Kayaks are well-known for their stable, flat hull designs, making them a perfect companion for water sports enthusiasts venturing into this region. Their line of pack boat-style solo canoes and kayaks are ideal for those who wish to explore the river using a canoe or kayak blade. Paddlers can witness stunning landscapes, pristine waters, and a variety of wildlife as they traverse the river.
Fishing and Recreation Activities
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks cater not only to paddling enthusiasts but also to those interested in fishing and recreational activities. The company's fishing kayaks, such as the Old Town Predator 150, provide ample space and features for a comfortable day on the water.
- Key Features of Fishing Kayaks:
- High-density polyethylene construction for durability
- Closed cell foam layer for buoyancy
- Generous weight capacity (850lbs/386kg)
- Suitable for sporting and recreational family use
For more laid-back recreational activities, Old Town offers tandem kayaks, solo kayaks, sit-in kayaks, and sit-on-top kayaks that cater to paddlers of all ages and abilities. The Guide 147 & 160 open canoes are perfect options for families, featuring PolyLink3™ construction for durability and stiffness, stabilizing chines for stability, and a spacious layout for comfortable paddling experiences.
With their wide range of canoes and kayaks, Old Town ensures that everyone can enjoy a day of paddling or fishing on picturesque waterways like the Penobscot River. Whether it's a thrilling white-water adventure or a peaceful day on the water, Old Town Canoes & Kayaks have the perfect vessel for any paddling enthusiast.