Overview & On-Water Performance
The Gumotex Twist 2/1 is the most affordable touring kayak in the Gumotex range – lightweight, compact, and ideal for relaxed day trips. Thanks to its simple, open design, it is especially beginner-friendly and can be paddled effortlessly both solo and as a tandem.
When paddled solo, the Twist 2/1 shows its strengths most clearly. It glides efficiently and offers enough space for gear, making even multi-day trips possible. With two paddlers, space is naturally more limited, but still sufficient for short outings.
Due to its relatively short length, the kayak is highly manoeuvrable and well suited for calm lakes and leisurely river tours.
Use Cases & Handling
The Twist 2/1 feels most at home on calm rivers, canals, and small lakes. It reacts quickly to paddle strokes, remains very stable, and is easy to control – ideal conditions for beginners or relaxed recreational paddling.
It can also be used on small rivers, but due to its open construction, water can enter the cockpit more easily. For this reason, the Twist 2/1 is not designed for whitewater or very splashy conditions. Paddlers who frequently go out as a tandem or need more load capacity may find the Gumotex Solar to be a more comfortable alternative with additional space.
Setup, Comfort & Features
The Twist 2/1 inflates in just a few minutes and is ready for use right away. The seats are easy to attach and can be repositioned flexibly depending on the paddling setup – either centrally for solo use or in a classic tandem configuration for two paddlers.
The included fin noticeably improves straight-line tracking, which is especially beneficial on lakes and wider rivers. At the same time, the compact hull ensures that the kayak remains easy to manoeuvre.
Material & Build Quality
Like many Gumotex models, the Twist 2/1 is made from NITRILON®, a robust, durable, and UV-resistant material. It is more resilient than conventional PVC and dries quickly, making it an excellent choice for paddlers looking for a low-maintenance yet durable beginner kayak.
Its low weight and very compact packed size make the Twist 2/1 one of the easiest Gumotex kayaks to transport.
Model History & Conclusion
The Gumotex Twist 2/1 has been on the market since 2010 and was last updated in 2019. Since then, the current version has remained unchanged – a clear sign of its proven design and well-defined purpose.
Anyone looking for a lightweight, uncomplicated, and affordable touring kayak that can be paddled solo or with two people will find the Gumotex Twist 2/1 to be an ideal companion for relaxed outings on calm waters.