Overview & On-Water Performance
The Gumotex Rush 1 is a compact single kayak designed for an exceptionally wide range of uses. Thanks to its stiff dropstitch floor, it tracks very well on calm water and delivers a stable, controlled paddling feel. At the same time, the Rush 1 remains agile enough to be manoeuvred safely on smaller rivers and in light whitewater.
With the optional cockpit cover, the Rush 1 can be paddled either open or closed, making it highly versatile in changing weather conditions or when dealing with spray water.
Use Cases & Handling
The Rush 1 is a true all-round kayak. On lakes and larger rivers, it benefits from good tracking and a stable position on the water. On small, winding rivers, its compact length really comes into its own, keeping the kayak responsive and easy to turn.
The Rush 1 also performs very well in light whitewater, provided conditions are not too powerful. The kayak feels robust and controlled, giving even less experienced paddlers a reassuring sense of safety. It is not designed for technical or heavy whitewater, however.
Setup, Comfort & Features
Setting up the Rush 1 takes just a few minutes. The two side chambers are inflated to 0.25 bar, while the dropstitch floor is inflated to 0.5 bar. The seat and footrest are also inflatable and provide a supportive and comfortable seating position.
A major advantage of the current model is the new air seat, which inflates via the same Push-Push valve system as the kayak itself. It offers a high level of comfort and avoids air loss, which could occasionally occur with older screw-valve designs.
The fin should be mounted before inflation, as it noticeably improves directional stability and straight-line tracking. The cockpit cover is removable, allowing the kayak to be configured as open or closed depending on conditions.
Material & Build Quality
Like all Gumotex kayaks, the Rush 1 is made from proven NITRILON® material, known for its robustness, UV resistance, and long service life. The dropstitch floor gives the kayak high stiffness, resulting in more stable and efficient paddling performance.
In the revised version, the side chambers are once again made from classic air chamber material. This keeps the kayak lighter, easier to handle, and quicker to dry. The smooth surface is easy to clean and dries noticeably faster than many PVC boats.
Model Update & Conclusion
After a production break, the Gumotex Rush 1 returned in 2024. The hull itself remains largely unchanged, but the side chambers are now manufactured without dropstitch, making the kayak easier to handle. In addition, the Rush 1 features a completely newly developed air seat that inflates via the main valve system and offers significantly improved comfort.
Anyone looking for a manoeuvrable, straightforward inflatable kayak that performs well on lakes, rivers, and light whitewater will find the Gumotex Rush 1 to be a versatile companion with a very broad range of applications.