Using the Donsa downriver took some getting used to. At 11'6" it is long and tail is always a couple of inches underwater so to get it to turn quickly I have begun to learn and employ a bit of slalom technique (which has improved my paddling overall).
The outfitting is minimal to say the least. I am 5'11", 175lbs and I have plenty of room and am comfortable once I am in the boat, but the keyhole feels small and getting in the boat takes some squirming. I did add a Jackson backband to mine (I know, I know, slalom boats aren't supposed to have backbands but then again, slalom races are only 2-3 minutes long and my back just couldn't take an hour without some more support).
Frankly the Donsa feels a like a giant, flat RPM. Going straight downriver in it through wave-trains etc., isn't all that interesting - it just punches straight through everything. But turn the boat upriver, WOW! Jet ferries are incredible. The Donsa accelerates like crazy across the face of waves. Pivot turns and stern squirts are simple and fun, just like you would expect from a slalom boat. Popping in and out of eddies is a hoot.
The Donsa is now my go-to boat to make runs that are getting just a little bit boring, just that little more exciting. And it's plastic. If I hit something, no big deal.
The outfitting is minimal to say the least. I am 5'11", 175lbs and I have plenty of room and am comfortable once I am in the boat, but the keyhole feels small and getting in the boat takes some squirming. I did add a Jackson backband to mine (I know, I know, slalom boats aren't supposed to have backbands but then again, slalom races are only 2-3 minutes long and my back just couldn't take an hour without some more support).
Frankly the Donsa feels a like a giant, flat RPM. Going straight downriver in it through wave-trains etc., isn't all that interesting - it just punches straight through everything. But turn the boat upriver, WOW! Jet ferries are incredible. The Donsa accelerates like crazy across the face of waves. Pivot turns and stern squirts are simple and fun, just like you would expect from a slalom boat. Popping in and out of eddies is a hoot.
The Donsa is now my go-to boat to make runs that are getting just a little bit boring, just that little more exciting. And it's plastic. If I hit something, no big deal.
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Reviews >> Kayaks >> Donsa Medium
