PADDLER 7
PADDLER 7
REVIEWS
“ The Firecracker is a very responsive boat. I enjoyed paddling it, and it was so easy to tailee it. I’ m hoping to get a Firecracker 232 of my own soon, as I preferred paddling the 232 over the 242. It made it more playful, which I liked.” Jacob Gill
252 tech spec: Length: 252cm / 8 ' 3 " Width: 70cm / 27.5 " External cockpit length: 91.5cm / 36 " External cockpit width: 52cm / 20.5 " Volume: 287L / 76( US) gal Weight: 21kg / 46lb Optimum paddler weight: 80-130kg / 176-287lb fleet and led me to make the decision that it was time to let go of my Z. One. While the Z. One remains a fantastic kayak, I now find myself consistently choosing the Firecracker over it. With Pyranha’ s new Elite outfitting and upgraded customiser options, getting my own Firecracker was an easy decision.
FIRECRACKER SIZES
Many people have asked why Pyranha have called the different sizes of the Firecracker the‘ 232’, the‘ 242’ and the‘ 252’ instead of small, medium and large.. The choice of Firecracker is dependent on two things: your weight and what you want it for. You can outfit most kayaks to fit you in if you have enough foam. If I wanted, I could outfit the 252 to fit me. I wouldn’ t want to, as I would be so light in this kayak.
At 70kg and 5’ 6”, I opted for the 232. I could probably paddle the 242, but being heavier in the smaller volume Firecracker 232 gives me that extra playfulness I love. Meanwhile, some of my heavier friends have chosen the 232 precisely because it makes their experience more playful by being overweighted for it.
If you’ re considering a Firecracker, I highly recommend testing a couple of sizes and really thinking about which one will better suit your needs. If you want a nimble river runner, you might size up; if you want maximum play potential, size down!
ANOTHER VIEWPOINT
Whenever I review a kayak, I always try to get input from other paddlers to ensure a well-rounded perspective. Nottingham locals, father and son duo Paul and Jacob Gill, both dedicated white water paddlers, had a go in the Firecracker and shared their thoughts with me.
Paul already owns a Firecracker 242, but Jacob wanted to try the 232. Both had great experiences and gave their thoughts above.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every paddler has different preferences, and the best way to know if the Firecracker suits you is to try a demo.
For me, Pyranha has done something truly special with this kayak. Whether tackling river runs, practising tailees on eddy lines, or surfing waves, it brings confidence and excitement that few boats match. Across the kayaking community, I keep hearing the same thing: this boat is a game-changer.
So, if you’ re setting one paddling goal for 2025, let it be this – get out there and take a Firecracker for a spin!