The Scubi 1 XL: A True All-Rounder Joins the Successful Hybrid Fleet!
What a start! In the spring of 2016, the Scubi 1 XL finally hit the market, immediately tested rigorously by the specialized press and showered with outstanding reviews. The kayak magazine awarded it a “Buy Recommendation,” and the canoe magazine wrote: “Finally, the tall girls and boys also have access to the club of Scubists,” referring to the large (fan) community of Scubi paddlers.
The magazine also wrote: “[...] With the Scubi 1 XL, a hybrid kayak was created that fits everyone, including tall paddlers. It is quick to set up and equipped with two high-pressure tubes that can operate at a pressure of up to 0.35 bar (5.07 psi). This kayak, featuring the finest hybrid technology, uses minimal framework. The innovative and patented internal ‘foam padded keel protection system’ prevents damage to the skin – in addition to the externally welded keel strip. The boat also has a packed size more reminiscent of a medium-sized backpack than a pack bag for a kayak and is an amazing lightweight at just 12 kg. The handling characteristics, which the new favorite on the scene offers, are more akin to the touring segment than the leisure segment. And the price is quite a statement for a kayak of this class! All this (and much more) is the Nortik Scubi 1 XL! In the accessories, you can find a spray deck with a rigid coaming for a perfect installation of a spray skirt if needed. The Scubi 1 XL can also be equipped with a steering system. Thus, no wishes remain unfulfilled.
The Scubi 1 XL remains true to the slogan “Simply paddling: the Scubi principle” more than ever! It is, in our opinion, the fastest-to-assemble hybrid kayak, ready for use in no time. It is designed for recreational use and is extremely versatile. The Scubi 1 XL also relies on the hybrid technology developed by Nortik, impressively combining the advantages of inflatable boats with those of folding boats. The boat is simply fun, and the handling characteristics, thanks to the defined keel, are sensational for a kayak of this length.
It is therefore no surprise that the Scubi 1 XL even ventures into the genuine touring segment. It stands for excellent handling characteristics, quick and easy setup, light weight, high mobility, an affordable price, and lots of fun on the water! Thanks to the optional spray deck with a rigid coaming, you can securely attach the spray skirt, providing excellent protection against splashing water. If you want to use a steering system, the Scubi 1 XL also offers this option. The comfortable hanging seat, along with its side supports and thigh straps, are already installed in the boat and do not need to be removed. The thigh straps provide a good and secure hold in the boat if needed. The framework is made of black-painted aluminum, and the outer skin of the Scubi 1 XL is made of robust and tear-resistant PVC/PU material.
The Scubi 1 XL offers various areas of use. Designed as a recreational boat, it allows for uncomplicated paddling fun on weekends, holidays, or just in between when you need a break from the daily hustle and bustle. At the same time, it is an ideal additional boat for professional paddlers, perfect for short evening outings or relaxed weekend trips. There is no cumbersome boat transport to the launch site, no heavy weight to carry, and no lengthy setup. Just grab the compact backpack and take a bus or train to the nearest body of water. Moments later, you are already in the boat and ready to go – uncomplicated and with lots of paddling fun. That’s how the Scubi principle works. Always and everywhere.
The two biggest specialist magazines rated the Scubi 1 XL exceptionally well after extensive tests. The kayak magazine wrote in its issue 6/2016: “The Scubi 1 XL is a premium-class hybrid boat. It is equally suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers. Its range of uses covers nearly all areas of kayaking. Packed in the included medium-sized backpack, the boat fits in any car trunk. Due to its light weight, the Scubi is also suitable for transport by bus, train, or airplane.”
The canoe magazine wrote: “Thanks to the open design of the Scubi, inserting the framework elements is not a fiddly job in the dark and can be done in five minutes. The reward for these few extra steps is far superior handling compared to a pure inflatable boat. With the raised seating position on the hanging seat, your legs are not as bent as in a hard-shell kayak. You sit comfortably. For transport, you neither need a car nor a roof rack, and for storage, a free spot on top of the wardrobe is enough.”
