Oru kayaks are gaining popularity as portable and convenient folding kayaks. Their innovative origami-inspired design allows them to fold up into a compact box that can be easily carried and stored. Many prospective buyers wonder – do these kayaks come with paddles included or do they need to be purchased separately?
Do Oru Kayaks Include Paddles?
No, Oru kayaks do not come with paddles included. As innovative and well-designed as Oru kayaks are, paddles need to be purchased separately by the user. Oru does sell their own paddles, purpose-built to stow away nicely in the folded kayak box.
This is an important detail for potential buyers to be aware of – the need to budget and shop for a suitable paddle to go along with the Oru kayak. The kayak itself packs neatly into a small space, but paddles are long and awkwardly shaped, so having a breakdown paddle helps maintain the portability and convenience that attracts people to Oru’s folding kayaks.
Oru Kayak Overview
Oru kayaks are made of custom-extruded polypropylene, a durable plastic that allows the kayak to fold up along pre-creased lines into a 32” x 29” x 12” carrying case with handles. They come in several models for one or two paddlers, optimized for leisure, touring, or performance. When unfolded and assembled, Oru kayaks function just like traditional hard-shell kayaks.
Advantages:
- Portable and easy to transport
- Store conveniently at home or take traveling
- No roof racks needed for car transportation
Considerations:
- Assembly required before each use
- Not as rigid as hard-shell kayaks
- Need to purchase paddle separately
Oru Branded Paddle Options
Oru offers a few different paddle options tailored for their kayaks:
- Oru Kayak Paddle: Their standard 4-piece paddle breaks down to store in the kayak box. It features a fiberglass shaft and ABS plastic blades. Fully adjustable length and feather angles. Costs $99.
- Oru Carbon Paddle: Higher-end option with carbon fiber shaft and blades. Lighter and stiffer for improved performance. 4-piece breakdown and adjustable angles. Packs in carrying case. $249 cost.
- Oru Fiberglass Paddle: Alternative fiberglass option with different color options. Otherwise same features as standard paddle. $99 cost.
The Oru paddles fit right into the folded up box, maintaining the portability without needing an extra bag or case to carry the paddle in. They assemble quickly and allow adjustments to the paddle length and blade angles for comfort and power.
Choosing Your Own Paddle
While the Oru paddles are optimized to pack away in their kayaks, there are plenty of quality paddles on the market to choose from. Any 4-piece take-apart paddle can be made to fit, though may require an extra storage bag.
Things to evaluate when selecting your own paddle:
- Breakdown style: 4-piece paddles pack best
- Length: 220-240cm ideal for most adult heights
- Material: Fiberglass, carbon fiber, plastic blades
- Shape: Asymmetrical touring shape recommended
- Adjustability: Customizable length and feather angles
High-end paddles from reputable brands can also offer excellent performance, comfort and aesthetics if you don’t mind carrying the pieces separately.
Final Considerations
The Oru kayak really capitalizes on its portability having the paddles stow inside right in the box. While paddles do need to be purchased separately, Oru offers some solid purpose-built options tailored for their kayaks. Whether opting for their paddles or shopping around for your own, having a 4-piece adjustable paddle will allow it to tuck neatly into the Oru kayak box for added traveling convenience.
Conclusion
To summarize clearly:
No, Oru kayaks do not come standard with a paddle in the box. All Oru kayak models require you to purchase a separate paddle. Their 4-piece adjustable paddles are designed to pack right into the folded up kayak, or you can shop third party paddles that breakdown to store as well. Having a portable paddle is key to complementing the take-anywhere functionality that makes the Oru folding kayaks so unique and appealing to outdoor adventurers and travelers.
Hi, I’m Steve, the passionate kayaking enthusiast behind Outdoor Bravo. As an avid adventurer and nature lover, kayaking has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember. My love affair with the water began during my childhood, and it has only grown stronger over the years. From serene lakes to rushing rivers and even challenging ocean tides, I’ve navigated various water bodies, seeking new thrills and unforgettable experiences.