k-pak folding boat unfolds from a backpack in minutes

the portable, folding boat market is always welcoming new additions, including launches like the ‘ORU kayak’, and spark design’s ‘rescue tip-board’. these vessels often rely on either folding or inflatable hardware to reduce to a trunk or carry case size. the ‘k-pak’ from north carolina’s folding boat company provides this portability thanks to its folding skeletal-structure; inflatable inserts and fabric outer skin. setting it up only takes a few minutes, before water adventures can begin.

length: 9’3″ (2.8m)

the folding boat company’s design integrates an aluminum frame (anodized) inside a puncture / abrasion-resistant poly fabric skin, catering for a more portable package; and fast, simple set-up. the frame never has to leave the skin–folding down and snapping into form from inside. 

width: 30″ (0.76m)

the key to the ‘k-pak’ design is a segmented frame that works in a similar fashion to a tent frame: its short, connected segments lock together into the greater structure. instead of simply nesting inside one another, as on a tent, the ‘k-pak’ segments can secure via plastic connector sleeves. lock the eight connector sleeves and the ‘k-pak’ springs to life from its slack skin and bones; to a three-dimensional boat.

weight: 21 lbs (9.5 kg)

 
an inflatable seat and floor inserts are also integrated into the single body and can inflate to shape with a hand pump. these pieces provide improve buoyancy on the water and add comfort to paddling. the only external components that are not neatly integrated are two cross members that snap into the frame to increase structural integrity. the folding boat company estimates a four-to-five minute set-up time for its 9.2 foot (2.8 m) boat. and at 21 lbs (9.5 kg), the personal floatation device isn’t any heavier than a backpack loaded with trekking gear. 

displacement: 280 lbs (127 kg)

where the ‘k-pak’ design really shines is in folding down into a single-piece package that you can wear on your back. once the frame is flattened, the boat folds into thirds and can slide into the backpack, with the cross members resting on top. other folding designs pack down into several bags; shoulder bags; roller cases; etc. but the k-pak backpack is a simple, streamlined alternative that can also carry a folding paddle and personal floating device.