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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Esquif Adirondack vs Sportspal 12 ft
 
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Kinginthenorth
11/06/2024 06:57PM
  
Looking to purchase a solo canoe. I've narrowed my choices based on some criteria including budget. Lightweight for easy portages on solo trips, durable (I use my gear hard), plenty of space for portage pack, lightweight (under 50#), and a wide range of uses outside of short 4-5 day BWCA solo trips.

Here are the pros and cons of each that are leaving me undecided.

Sportspal 12 ft
*Pros
-budget friendly
-very light at only 35# (36# with yolk)
-very durable
-very stable
-well reviewed for hunting purposes
-option for two passengers although I understand it's not ideal for that.

*Cons
- I've heard it's not fun to paddle outside calm waters
- more sticky on rocks
- BWCA regulars don't consider it a real canoe??

Esquif Adirondak 13ft
*Pros
- smooth paddling boat compared to Sportpal
- more versatile build (can handle light rapids and rocks well)
- a little extra length
- durable
- local seller

*Cons
- more expensive
- heavier than Sportpal (42#)
- slightly less stable
-more expensive than Sportspal
 
billconner
11/07/2024 07:33AM
  
These are both wide, slow canoes, and not especially light. I'm not interested in speed near as much as most here, and I treasure high initial stability, but not as slow and wide as these. I don't know if cost or durability keep you from modern kevlar options, but would urge you to consider them. I have two kevlar solos and I am not gentle with them, but being much lighter than your selections does make them easier to carry, at least over sharp rocks.

Of your two, the Esquif Aditondak, which I've test paddled, would be my choice, but would prefer their Echo model, which paddles quite nicely given my preferences.

For price, look for used. All my canoes were bought used and no regrets - less than 1/2 new and I don't get upset about surface scratches.