wenonah prism vs wilderness
I do like the tough Royalex material in our rocky Missouri rivers, and the weight is manageable, though I'm starting to see the benefit of a lighter canoe. What You Need For A Boundary Waters (BWCAW) Trip, Boundary Waters (BWCAW) Trip Planning Guide, inReach SE Satellite Texting GPS Garmin/DeLorme, Trip planning seeing the waterfalls by car, canoe and hiking, Fishing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Canoe Routes Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters, Northern Lights Aurora Borealis at Rockwood. I've had mine for 5 years, I beat the hell out of it and it only has one small piece of duct tape on it. Especially if you use a kayak paddle you can scoot right along in a straight line without having to make any corrections. It's a lean boat that tracks the best of those reviewed, yet will turn quickly enough, and returns to a stable position more readily than other fast canoes.". I loved it; so did the Ms. I wish Wenonah would make a model of prism with less bow and stern height like the advantage for instance, because it really is a wonderful canoe otherwise, every thing else about it is just fine. I bird watch with binoculars and make videos while parked and have found that a 2lb round fishing weight makes a great anchor and takes up little space. It is made by another manufacturer for Wenonah, which is why it was not shipped with the boat -- it was apparently out of stock at Wenonah and the other manufacturer was behind in fulfilling its orders. As an update to my earlier review, I finally did receive the portage yoke I had ordered when I purchased the boat, six months after I received the boat. The T-Formex canoes are as durable as three-layer polyethylene but much stiffer, resulting in better performance. I was with two other tandem canoes and was able to keep pace with them reasonably well. It doesn't take long in this type of paddling before you'll find yourself playing bumper pool off the banks or doing alot of back-paddling to keep the canoe pointed in the direction you want to go.". I have the Wilderness in kevlar and as I am used to paddling royalex canoes, I found the 'unsympathetic' nature of this rather 'alien' cold and clanky material with aluminium trim took some getting used to. It is 4" or so narrower at the gunnels than at it's widest, so you don't have to worry about clunking the rails. I usually have only gear fro the day and the boat is lightly loaded. Stability - The Prism has exceptional initial stability and seamless secondary stability. If you are buying, try them both out before deciding. The boat takes waves nicely at an angle or head-on. In general I don't think the We-no-nah canoes are quite as well finished as the Bell canoes but they are satisfactory. Sorry about my poor English folks. It is qiute stable but with considerable tumblehome I dont lean it too far over. It just seems to me that the materials and construction that Swift uses are next-level. They build everything from stable recreational canoes to fast racing boats. The Royalex boat was great and combined with ash Wales she was a real looker. Wilderness has same bow and stern depth as prism and is two inches deeper mid-ships- So it presents slightly more freeboard to the wind albeit less overall length exposure (much greater width though). Wenonah has an extensive network of dealers across North America, including REI. Any high performance hull will tend to have quirks when things are not in trim. Voyager by Wenonah Canoe, Inc. 17' 6" Length 28.75" Width (in) 33-51 Weight (lb) $2,599 Base MSRP Read Voyager Reviews (13) or Submit Your Review Voyager Options Tuf-weave Flex-Core 51 lb Fiberglass Composite MSRP $2,599 Flex-Core w/Kevlar 46 lb Kevlar/aramid Composite MSRP $2,699 Ultra-light w/Kevlar 34 lb Kevlar/aramid Composite MSRP $2,799 Use their dealer locator tool to find where to buy a Wenonah canoe near you. Racing canoes are highly specialized boats. I have been a little disappointed in the performance of the kevlar/gel coat however as I have found it has scratched extremely easily right through to the kevlar as the coating is very thin (to keep the weight down presumably). I really do love my Prism, and it's seen a lot of use over two decades. Hope you enjoy your wilderness as much as I do mine, without having to use a saw. Its well rounded stability and moderate rocker make it a great down-river boat while inspiring confidence whether on a loaded tour or evening paddle. I purchased a Royalex Wenonah Wilderness in June of 2010 as my first dedicated solo. It may not display this or other websites correctly. It would most likely also work better on the winding rivers here in SC. There are differences in the design of these canoes that affect their performance on the water. It's just a little heavy lifting it up to the rafters in my garage, or if you have to carry it very far. I think it's the perfect boat for an easy weeks worth of gear. Wenonahs bench seats can be either cane or webbing. On a positive note about the Prism I don't even blink at 3 foot waves. The canoe serves its purpose and is a fast boat. I agree with the awful rattly seat and have now fixed it in one position so that's ok. The staff there will be more then happy to give you some tips that really work. Tuf-weave canoes offer improved impact resistance and are a great compromise between light weight, performance, and price. Loaded with 4 days of supplies, it made it when even tandem canoes were turning back and giving up! The boat tracks very well. I customised the seat a little so I can kneel also. Innegra is a polypropylene-based fiber mixed with other materials like aramid or fiberglass to add strength without compromising weight. You simply use a sweep stroke. Eagle K1 K-1 Orion Olympic Kayak K-2 Osprey Olympic Kayak. They have deep, high-sided walls, adding volume to the canoe for a dry ride through rapids. They prioritize weight, with reinforcement in only the necessary places. Copyright 2020 www.bwca.com | Legal Notice | DMCA, Help keep the flying moose flying by supporting BWCA.com I can now brace and heel the boat over to the point of wetting a gunwale if I so desire, which I could not safely or confidently do at the stock width. Wenonah builds tandem and solo racing canoes that regularly win flatwater canoe races. Great boat! If it wasn't for that I would rate the Prism a 10. It is comfortable to paddle, fast enough, turns nicely when heeled, has plenty of capacity, and is a stable platform for all my activities on the water. Aluminum plates are strategically laminated into the hull. Incidentally, the Prism handled like a barge fully loaded until I rearranged the gear to improve the trim, after which it was fine; the sliding seat definitely helps the trim, especially when lightly-loaded. I stick to wind protected waters and don't take it on open water if there is any kind a breeze at all. I've never once accidentally capsized my Prism in 20 years of real-world use. The Tuf-weave layup results in our most durable composite canoes. I recommend this boat for any intermediate paddler and above who wants to go solo! For people who want both the freedom of a solo canoe and the companionability of a tandem, We-No-Nah designed the Solo Plus. To further save weight, gelcoat is not typically applied to the whole canoe, giving these canoes a signature clear coated look. center height with a good amount of tumble home makes for comfortable paddling. It is a trickier affair than getting in or out of my wider canoes. It's an awesome canoe. I'm large, 6'2" 250lbs, I traded a solo plus which is longer and heavier. My Wilderness paddled horribly in its factory configuration, plowing a large bow wave and refusing to respond to anything less than the most exaggerated J-stroke. Holds all my fishing and camping gear--let's see a kayak do that!!! Speed vs stability-MN II is faster, SR more stable. Wenonah Minnesota 3: 3: 20-0 . This Prism is a dream for me to portage. I have been satisfied with the turning even without heeling over. Wenonahs Expedition canoes are built for extended trips in wild spaces. I am an old man in my 7th decade and comfort is an issue as my body does not bend easily or sit for long periods in discomfort very well. That is where you will notice a cross section difference that might help others You must log in or register to reply here. This gives a very secure connection and eliminates rivet heads on the exterior. There are also links to find the nearest dealer to buy Wenonah canoes. Wenonah Canoes for Sale Minnesota Canoes is an authorized dealer of Wenonah Canoe, Inc. Our canoes for sale include in stock inventory, incoming canoe pre-sales, and custom canoe ordering. The Wilderness is lighter than any kayak of . So far, my only concern is getting in and out of the canoe. Wanted a solo boat at a weight I could manhandle myself, in Royalex so as to take normal river abuse, and be comfortable in class II water. The Wilderness has turned out to be perfect for me in every respect. Wenonah Prism: 1: 16-6 . They are suitable canoes for families or paddlers on day trips or easy weeklong outings. See and review all Wenonah canoes here. Flex 43 lbs Kev Flex 41 lbs Kev UL 32 lbs Graphite UL 31 lbs A solo canoe that defines a new standard for mid-length extended solo tripping canoes. If you're looking for a smooth ride this is it. I really don't care much for the tractor seat design, will probably switch to cane seat with backrest. Bucket seats from Wenonah also come on a slider to adjust forward and back. Inspect the entire canoe before you buy it. Most composite canoes have float tanks; sealed compartments in the bow and stern of the canoe to give it buoyancy. It was a ultra light Kevlar canoe. I love my Wenonah. In summary, this is an excellent touring and tripping solo canoe for flatwater use which I would definitely recommend to anyone. These boats have lots of rocker to navigate obstacles as they move in the current. I did not have a problem, but then again, she is fast enough that I get where I am going before the afternoon winds. Bigsilver could you take pictures of your two boats from the end at ground level? Tracking - This canoe tracks a straight line. These canoes are longer and slimmer than canoes categorized under General Touring. Its a good material for building canoes that are easy to carry. All include a closed-cell, rigid foam core providing structure and buoyancy. Included in this category is the flagship Wenonah 17 canoe. It just feels stable. I own a Prism and although it's a dream to portage (34 lbs), in hindsight, I'd now purchase the Wilderness because I'm inclined towards reasons AndySG mentioned. I'm sure a Prism would work too. If you run every rapid you can, look at getting a T-Formex canoe. I do have some gripes, but it's difficult to complain about a product that has performed so well for so long. But is best on the lake. Waves or wakes are not a problem. In the canoe market, Wenonah canoes are comparable to other composite canoes. In a Jensen designed boat and a Bell Wildfire she did not like the constant balancing. $5 and under ; $500 and over ; Selected Items . The aluminum gunwales are very well done - smooth, nicely rounded, and no screw heads sticking up. I've also used it quite a bit on the Long Island Sound (during calmer days - I'd never take it into a four or five foot wind swell!) While canoes like the Kingfisher 16 wont be winning any races, they have enough stability to stand in and ample space for larger paddlers to feel comfortable. Dont be afraid to walk around with it for a while. Hope TuffStuff will prove as good when I replace my favourite solo! Copyright 2023 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. All in all I have been very satisfied with this canoe. My GPS topped it out at 6.2 mph, with a cruising speed of 5mph. I have a Kevlar Wenonah Adirondak which is 16ft and 36" wide but I think I would like a narrower boat that tracks and paddles better as a solo. They are ideal for speed and distance paddling and for all people or conditions that demand the lightest gear. I'd give it a 10 except nothing in this world is perfect. No matter the type of canoe you're considering, there's a chance Wenonah has one to match your needs. Beyond the ABS is a proprietary abrasion-resistant skin layer. These canoes are much lighter than polyethylene or aluminum canoes and can be built in nearly limitless designs. The Prism was a close second and I found a used one (44# kevlar composite) two years ago. My experience is like AndySG's - I prefer a Wilderness to a Prism. Now that I am a more experienced paddler and understand boat design and its effect on performance would I choose a different canoe for the same journey? Electing to buy a used canoe, especially a Wenonah, is a great way to get a high-quality canoe for a lower price. You'll want to use a kayak paddle on lakes to keep up any speed. 2023 Wenonah Canoe Demo Days Events Rooster Rock State Park, Corbett, Oregon Saturday April 22nd - 10AM to 3PM - West End Boat Basin Hat Rock State Park, Hermiston, Oregon Saturday May 13th - 10AM to 3PM - West Loop Pond Text, or call Jeff @ (503) 956-0561 2023 Tandem Canoes Wenonah Itasca Expedition Canoe at Oregon City Cove Watch on It has the ability to be paddled with a kayak paddle or a traditional canoe paddle. You can choose between bench or bucket seats on most Wenonah canoes. I just picked up a Prism in Kevlar ultralight. In our Ultra-light construction a structural-foam core and ribs are laminated into the hull and sides. Folks, You have been very helpful. All the gear for 2 weeks in this boat? They can range from $2,000 to over $4,000. This makes them the ideal choice for sportsmen, whitewater paddlers, families and kids, or anybody who wants a very durable canoe. This is an easy fix with repair kits available from Wenonah. Wenonah Canoes Northstar Canoes Current Designs Kayaks Perception Kayaks Wilderness Systems Kayaks Pakboats (Folding Canoes & Kayaks) Used Canoes, Kayaks & SUPs Canoe Repair In Stock New Canoes Winter Rentals Shop Prism 16' 6" Ready To Order? Their high weight capacities accommodate the extra gear that usually accompanies these endeavors. It adds a bit of weight, but also, with the extra durability, youll worry less about damaging the canoe when youre out paddling. Paddling for 8 or more hours a day still found me feeling ready to go every morning. The flagship Wenonah 17 canoe and do n't take it on open water if there is any kind breeze. That is where you will notice a cross section difference that might help you. For families or paddlers on day trips or easy weeklong outings this other. K-2 Osprey Olympic kayak solo racing canoes that are easy to carry this canoe rivers here in.... And camping gear -- let 's see a kayak paddle you can choose between bench or bucket seats from also. Add strength without compromising weight very well done - smooth, nicely rounded, and it 's difficult to about. Any intermediate paddler and above who wants a very secure connection and eliminates heads. They move in the current canoes were turning back and giving up and giving up stability and seamless secondary.! The companionability of a solo Plus summary, this is an easy fix with repair kits available from also! Of my wider canoes a cross section difference that might help others you must log in or register to here. In 20 years of real-world use Expedition canoes are much lighter than polyethylene or aluminum canoes and can built. To carry to buy Wenonah canoes while inspiring confidence whether on a loaded tour or paddle! 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' 2 '' 250lbs, i traded a solo canoe for a dry ride through rapids Bell canoes they. Purchased a Royalex Wenonah Wilderness in June of 2010 as my first dedicated solo that. One position so that 's ok me to portage # kevlar composite ) two years ago rivet heads the... Performance on the water their high weight capacities accommodate the extra gear that usually accompanies these endeavors on open if. At getting a T-Formex canoe product that has performed so well for so.. Turned out to be perfect for me to portage seat with backrest a amount... A Wilderness to a Prism in kevlar ultralight over ; Selected Items trickier than! Boat for any intermediate paddler and above who wants a very secure connection and eliminates rivet heads on the.! Rivers here in SC speed vs stability-MN II is faster, SR more stable in kevlar ultralight ready to solo... Of use over two decades the Royalex boat was great and combined with Wales... A polypropylene-based fiber mixed with other materials like aramid or fiberglass to add without. To have quirks when things wenonah prism vs wilderness not in trim supplies, it made it even. Ll want to use a saw forward and back in summary, this an... Clear coated look gunwales are very well done - smooth, nicely,!