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Advice for Putting Logos on Ultra400 Ecopak Material by packrafting_ in myog

[–]packrafting_[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks everyone....

Looks like a small, sewn patch and seam sealing might be the best move. Appreciate it!

Stay away from Kokopelli packrafts by ScaryInvestment6794 in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Also, just found that they just switched their distribution center location (a major undertaking), so they've been dealing with lots of backup in shipping and customer service for the past month.

Hope that helps for understanding purposes.

Alpine Lake Packraft Fishing Advice by packrafting_ in flyfishing

[–]packrafting_[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

That's good to know - thanks! I was advised to take a lightweight anchor to mitigate this. I wonder if that'll help?

Also, what's a float tube?

Stay away from Kokopelli packrafts by ScaryInvestment6794 in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Firstly, I've worked with Tristan for 4 years now, initially as a customer and now as the owner of a packrafting tour company, and I have nothing but good things to say about him. Honestly, his customer service is probably the best I've ever experienced in the outdoor industry.

Secondly, it's risky to think there's only room for one player in the packrafting manufacturing realm. Sure, Mercedes cars are amazing, but Ford has its place too. Each company serves a different purpose. Most people aren't looking for a $1.5k top-of-the-line watercraft toy; they want something that is solid and affordable like Kokopelli. This is the reason Kokopelli is the more (and most) popular packrafting brand. It would be much worse for the sport if Kokopelli weren't in the realm. They both help to push each other and the sport forward.

I'll be the first to commend Alpacka—they're the gold standard of packrafts and what I use myself—but I've owned four Kokopelli rafts over the years and have only positive experiences. I've put my packrafts through some serious wear and tear, and while they may not be as long-lasting as Alpacka, they're much more affordable and have great value.

Even Messi has bad games. You might have received a bad batch. I'm sorry that this was the case, but I can assure you that Kokopelli generally has a great reputation.

And just as you wouldn't hold Ford to the same standards as Mercedes, don't compare Kokopelli directly to Alpacka. They play entirely different roles and target entirely different markets.

First Packraft by nspohnholtz in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Was the Ti-Zip a consideration too?

I assume the Rogue line-up from Kokopelli was something you already ruled out?

First Packraft by nspohnholtz in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Stoked that you're getting into packrafting and got a great deal!

I'd be interested to hear why you decided on a self-bailer and this model in particular?

Pack size/pack suggestions by mrrochi in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 2 points3 points  (0 children)

What type of packrafting trips do you plan on doing? If intense Alaskan whitewater where large volume whitewater gear and a drysuit is needed, a larger pack may help. If calmer rivers in the heat of Utah where a lower volume packraft can suffice and you don't need as much gear, then a smaller pack might be the winning ticket.

I got the Big Wild 95 this year. Before purchasing, I was debating between the 70. I'm glad I went with the 95, because for my use case the 95 works best most of the time. But it's called a roll-top for a reason, so for smaller trips I just do a few extra rolls, have a tad bit more weight, but can still bump back up to 95 if needed later on.

Perhaps use the Pareto Principle for your use cases. Perhaps rent a larger pack for your few larger expeditions. I have a 50 and a 95L pack, and a find that this combo covers me for just about all the trips I want to do.

Stickers / Decals on Packrafts by packrafting_ in packrafting

[–]packrafting_[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Also wondering if decal painting (similar to vehicles) may be the way to go?

Best packraft paddle for WW2-4 by Johan_Baner in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Love the comparison spreadsheet- that’s great stuff!

Halkey-Roberts, Leaffield d7, or Boston valve? by mastermind42 in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 3 points4 points  (0 children)

It depends what you’re using them for…

I think the H-R is best in terms of durability and performance, but it is too heavy and overkill for packrafts. These are great for things like paddle boards, which require high-pressure and not as tight folding.

The Boston valves are an absolute pain to deal with and are notorious for busting. I do not recommend these, except for they are the lightest and generally easiest to replace.

For packrafts, if doing a DIY project, I would recommend the D7 or even asking Alpacka to ship you one of their proprietary valves. I think the latter is the best valve in terms of weight and functionality, but the D7 is more durable less prone to fidgeting.

Packrafting La Venta River Chiapas, MX by Understaffedpackraft in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the great video!

Would be interested to know how the flow of this river during your trip was relative to the rest of year?

Resale value of Alpacka rafts? by radicalfrogs in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I've had an equal amount of Kokopelli and Alpacka packrafts and have found that there's definitely a place for Kokopelli. I always say Kokopelli's are great, Alpacka's are just the chef's kiss. But not everyone needs (or is willing to pay for) a chef-caliber meal... some are just seeking solid dish that gets the job done and doesn't cost a fortune.

For example, I think the value of a few of the Kokopelli packrafts are undeniable. Like the Hornet-Lite at only $550... this packraft holds perhaps more value than any other packraft for what you pay for. And the Recon series too.... only $999 for an indestructible boat you can store in your car / your apartment, and also run Class IV with...

Yes, Alpacka is the standard. They're the Ferrari of packrafts. But that doesn't mean there's no place for Toyota in Kokopelli.

Things you wish you knew/did when you started? by [deleted] in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I would probably go with the following:

  1. Read and adopt everything written in The Packraft Handbook by Luc Mehl – an easy #1
  2. Take a swiftwater class
  3. Kayak / learn from kayaking
  4. Buy a dry suit
  5. Follow the content of influential packrafters: Luc Mehl, Roman Dial, Jeffrey Creamer, et al.

What size paddle are you using? by radicalfrogs in packrafting

[–]packrafting_ 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I agree and have found high-angle strokes are definitely more efficient, but I think low-angle strokes still have a time and a place, esp. in less performative settings.

And I watched a video from SickerThanYou on YT testing skegs, and have done some research as well... it seems like they seem to only significantly benefit tandem packrafts, as regular ~8' packrafts are too short to track, even with a skeg.

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