REVIEWS
The Performance seat stood its ground compared to the Connect that I ’ m so fond of . The Performance seat allows for more gentle steering in the surf , whereas the Connect will encourage a more aggressive style . Nevertheless , the Performance outfit won ’ t let you down even in bigger conditions ! I didn ’ t shift sideways during carving or lose contact when I had to roll . To end with a number : the maximum speed I reached during surfing was 27.2 km / h ( measured with a high-quality GPS ). Awesome ! But I ’ m already thinking about beating that number on the next surf session with the Volan !
A minor footnote for those surf addicts among us : the Volan surfs well backwards due to the shape of the stern . Since the stern has similar characteristics to the bow ( shorter , of course ), it reacts to steering strokes on the waves better than a sawed-off stern .
CONCLUSION Again , P & H is pushing the pedal to the metal regarding development and renewing with this Volan ! I found the Volan to be everything I ’ ve wanted in a slightly smaller package . If I were only allowed to have one boat ( also the question I got the most during the past months ), I would have strong doubts between the Cetus and the Volan . The Volan is slightly slower but still fast enough . It is very manoeuvrable without losing track during forward paddling . It ’ s lighter due to its shorter length , so even better to put the boat on your car . The shorter length also means that you need less storage space after your sessions .
The Volan doesn ’ t cut back in necessary outfitting ; on the contrary : it looks the same as a full option expedition sea kayak , only shorter . The design makes this boat one of , if not the most versatile sea kayak currently on the market . I love it for its surfing characteristics with the capability to bring me anywhere I want in no time . Also , it looks very distinguished with the ‘ cookie box chines ’ and the extra lining in the front deck . The comfort of the cockpit is unrivalled , whether you go for a Performance or Connect seat . The Performance seat invites to more torsa rotation and gentle steering . Connect seat invites to a more aggressive paddling style . Don ’ t just take my word for it : go and try the Volan yourself and be prepared to be surprised !
For the critics among you , yes , I paddle for P & H , and at P & H , they know I don ’ t hold back on feedback and comments during the development process of their boats . This means that the prototype is altered and improved , allowing them to launch a state-of-the-art boat . The fact that P & H listens to its paddling community is always for the benefit of us all . Better boats , more fun !
Also , we have uploaded many action footage ( pictures and short videos ) on our Instagram ; check out : @ NORTHSEAKAYAK .
Have fun , and take care of each other on the water !
ARBON