Overview & paddling performance
The Gumotex Palava has been one of the most popular inflatable canoes in Europe for many years – and with good reason. This open canoe combines exceptionally easy handling with high stability and outstanding versatility, making it a true classic among inflatable canoes.
Thanks to the raised seating position, paddlers enjoy excellent visibility on the water, while the wide hull delivers a reassuringly stable and beginner-friendly feel. The Palava can be paddled comfortably solo or by two people and stands out on rivers with its direct, responsive handling and high manoeuvrability.
For touring paddlers, families and anyone looking for a robust, reliable and easy-to-handle inflatable canoe, the Palava remains one of the most proven choices available.
Suitable waters & handling characteristics
The Gumotex Palava really comes into its own on flowing rivers. Its stable hull shape and agile handling allow precise control even in moving water. Light whitewater sections up to class III can be handled confidently, without compromising safety or stability.
On calm water and lakes, the Palava is equally enjoyable to paddle. Due to its open canoe design and comparatively wide profile, it is not built for maximum speed, but rather for relaxed outings and controlled touring. This makes it ideal for scenic paddling rather than fast-paced performance.
With its high load capacity, the Palava is perfectly suited for multi-day trips, weekend adventures and family outings. When paddled solo, it offers generous storage space for camping gear and longer expeditions.
Setup, comfort & features
The Gumotex Palava can be inflated in just a few minutes and is ready for use extremely quickly. The two wooden bench seats are inserted before inflation and contribute additional rigidity to the hull. The three air chambers are equipped with easy-to-use push-push valves and are inflated to 0.2 bar.
The elevated seating position ensures good visibility and a dry ride. The included thigh straps allow for a more dynamic paddling style when needed, which is especially beneficial on faster-flowing rivers. An optional centre seat can be added when paddling with three people.
Thanks to its open design, getting in and out of the canoe is particularly comfortable, making the Palava especially appealing for families, touring paddlers and beginners.
Material & build quality
Like all Gumotex boats, the Palava is made from Nitrilon®, a highly durable, long-lasting and low-maintenance material. This multi-layer fabric is UV-resistant, abrasion-resistant and performs reliably even on rocky riverbeds.
Nitrilon® is also more environmentally friendly than conventional PVC materials and dries very quickly. Welded seams ensure excellent airtightness and long-term reliability. With a weight of around 17.5 kg, the Palava remains practical for everyday use and easy to transport.
Model updates & conclusion
The current version of the Gumotex Palava has remained unchanged since 2013 and has proven itself countless times in real-world use. Earlier versions featured inflatable bow and stern decks, but Gumotex deliberately chose the current open, versatile and user-friendly design.
The modern Palava impresses with its simple handling, high stability and exceptional durability. Anyone looking for a dependable inflatable canoe for river touring, weekend trips and family adventures will find the Gumotex Palava to be an excellent and time-tested choice.