When it comes to kayaks, Malibu Kayaks are a brand that has been around for years. For 2017, they have updated six of their kayaks and introduced a new flagship kayak – the Stealth 14. Let’s take a closer look.
LDPE
There are two main types of plastic used in Malabu kayaks: LDPE and HDPE. LDPE is more flexible than HDPE and has a smoother appearance. HDPE is stronger but is more rigid and requires a higher moulding temperature. LDPE kayaks are primarily used for recreational use.
LDPE is a relatively inexpensive material. It can also be easily repaired. This makes it easier to transport and maneuver. Compared to traditional wood, LDPE is less dense and therefore lighter. Moreover, LDPE can be welded back together with heat, so if a crack or hole occurs, it can easily be repaired.
Although kayak manufacturers can choose from different materials, they will typically use a combination of materials. They will select materials based on the intended use of the kayak. For example, a touring kayak will probably use a composite construction, whereas a sea kayak will likely be made from a thermoformed hull made from LDPE. Each material has different costs and pros and cons.
Although LDPE is a common material used in kayak manufacturing, general purpose polyethylene is not recommended for use in kayaks. There are three types of polyethylene: LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene), MDPE (Medium Density Polyethylene) and LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene). While all three of these materials have the same properties, their density and strength are not the same. High density polyethylene (HDPE) is stronger and more rigid. Moreover, it also has better memory, which makes it last longer.
Although LDPE is the best choice for a recreational kayak, some kayak companies use cheaper materials for mass production. This means that quality control is not as high. Additionally, many companies produce kayaks overseas, using less expensive materials, or run longer molds. For this reason, it is better to use a high-quality plastic in kayaks.
HDPE
HDPE plastic is a better choice for a kayak than LDPE, which is low-density polyethylene. It has a higher density, is less brittle, and provides excellent impact and scratch resistance. Moreover, HDPE is incredibly tough and durable.
This type of plastic can withstand abrasion and tear better than LDPE, which is why Roundabout Watercrafts used it in its kayaks. This material is also lighter and easier to handle and transport. In the case of cracks, the hull is able to be repaired using plastic welding, which helps prevent the kayak from cracking further.
However, it is important to know that molded plastic is not the same as HDPE plastic. The mold has to be heated and rotated before the kayak is finished. Therefore, the kayak isn’t completely seamless, and the mold isn’t designed to be re-used for a number of kayaks. This method is much cheaper, but it also has its drawbacks.
When a crack develops in the hull of a kayak, the first step is to clean the plastic. Water-soluble contaminants can be removed using soap and water, but more difficult substances need a specific plastic cleaner. After cleaning the plastic, realign the overlapped sections.
In addition to HDPE, other types of plastic also exist, including MDPE. These materials are cheaper and easier to mold, but the downside is that they are easier to break and will dent. This makes them less durable. But if you plan on going on kayaking expeditions or are interested in extreme sports, HDPE is the best option.
Lastly, HDPE plastic is environmentally friendly. HDPE plastic kayaks use less material to produce than other types of kayaks. And unlike their traditional counterparts, HDPE kayaks are made with UV stabilizers and antioxidants to keep them from yellowing. This also protects the kayak from the sun.
HDPE plastic is the most common material used in kayaks, but this does not mean that they are made from a single material. Different types of plastic have different properties and are priced differently. HDPE plastic kayaks are extremely dense and are perfect for sea kayaking and offshore fishing. They are also designed to withstand extreme conditions in the water.
X-Tank
The X-Factor Sit-on-Top fishing kayak from Malibu is an excellent choice for fishing in large bodies of water. It features a wide cockpit area, two dive tank wells, side carry handles, and six flush-mounted fishing rod holders. This kayak is great for fishing in choppy waters and is designed for stability in big waves.
A Malibu Stealth 14 features a large hatch for the X-Tank, a removable crate for gear. It can also be plumbed for a live-bait well and a cooler. Some models even have a motor option.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a material that is very durable and light weight. However, it has its limitations. It can become brittle and warp over time, especially with UV rays. It can also be weakened by constant use, waves, and engine vibrations. A fiberglass kayak can also break easily if not properly maintained.
Malabu kayaks are made of fiberglass, and you can also make one yourself. The fiberglass molds come in different colors, and you can paint them yourself with a paint-friendly gelcoat. This gelcoat will give your kayak a smooth finish that will stand out on the water. For an aesthetically pleasing finish, you should choose bright colors. However, if you want your kayak to be more functional, you can choose white.
Fiberglass is not as durable as plastic, but if you care for it properly, you can make it last for years. Unlike plastic, fiberglass kayaks are easy to maintain. Gelcoat protects fiberglass from damage and is also inexpensive to repair. If you have a fiberglass kayak, you should consider it instead of a plastic one.
Whether you choose a composite kayak or a plastic one, you should take into account how often you will use it. While composite kayaks tend to last longer and require less maintenance, plastic kayaks are cheaper but do not have as much stability. A composite kayak can also be damaged easily. A composite kayak can break if you crash it into rocks or other objects.
Fiberglass is an excellent material for kayaks. It can last for decades and will reduce drag in the water. The material is lightweight and can withstand rough surfaces, but it does not have the impact resistance of polyethylene. It can also be repaired, and you can find fiberglass kayak repair kits in many stores.
Another material that is durable is kevlar. Kevlar kayaks are often gold in color, and are made from composite materials. Kevlar kayaks are stronger than fiberglass kayaks, but they cost more. Moreover, they are more difficult to repair than fiberglass kayaks.