Dagger Alchemy 14.0S and Alchemy 14.0L Touring and Ocean Play Kayaks
| MODEL | L E N G T H |
W I D T H |
H E I G H T |
W E I G H T |
FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dagger* Alchemy 14.0S rotomolded | 14' | 23" | 13" | 51 | 3 bulkheads, 3 rubber hatches - round front and day, oval rear hatch |
| Dagger* Alchemy 14.0L rotomolded | 14' | 24" | 14" | 54 | 3 bulkheads, 3 rubber hatches - round front and day, oval rear hatch |
Unlike any plastic kayak its size, the Dagger Alchemy has a well designed skeg system that does what it's supposed to do, and it has an ergonomic keyhole cockpit which combined with it's low rear deck makes rolling super easy (even hand rolls). No other plastic skeg kayak near this size does so many things so well. Alchemy's achieve good speed in a 14-foot length, while maintaining a high level of maneuverability. The Alchemy is a solid choice for slow moving rivers, as well as coastal rock hopping and surf conditions. It is versatile enough for both entry-level enthusiasts and advanced paddlers who want to play rough. Athletic and adventurous users will really appreciate it because it won't limit them the way other kayaks in this price range and size would. The Alchemy 14.0 comes in two sizes: large (L) and small (S). Both are the same length, they are just designed to fit different sized paddlers.
A combination of low rocker and little overhang squeeze the maximum speed out of the Alchemy's 14' overall length. The shallow "V" cross section makes it track well, yet because it's only 14' long its also very maneuverable, and the hard chines help it carve quickly when you edge it on the go. Alchemy's blend moderate primary stability and high secondary stability in just the right way to build confidence at edging to carve turns on flat water as well as when surfing down a wave. This could be a great first kayak to learn in or a fun play boat for experienced paddlers to add to their quiver (also a good loaner kayak when you want to take a friend along).
Although it's possible to do an occasional weekend trip in an Alchemy, it is really designed for adventurous day trips. If you want kayak for day trips that include rock garden paddling or surfing in a touring kayak, a plastic Alchemy is the kayak to choose. want an easy kayak to roll (it's size in an advantage at pool sessions too). If you are looking for your first sea kayak and can't even afford a roto-molded Tempest - you'll be way better off with a plastic Alchemy than a cheap glass kayak.
As a rough guide, we find:
The Alchemy 14.0S is best suited for paddlers 5' 4" to 6'1", 130-190 lbs
The Alchemy 14.0L is best suited for paddlers 5' 10" to 6'4", 170 - 240 lbs
Alchemy's come standard with the latest features you would expect to only see in a full on bigger sea kayak (i.e. retractable skeg, day hatch, recessed deck fittings & safety lines, rubber hatches, foam seat pad, adjustable back rest). The Alchemy's retractable skeg* has a precise, smooth slider bar/cable control. They have a well designed keyhole cockpit with good hip and knee braces, and a comfortable back band that adjusts. All three hatches are rubber hatches that seal like food containers. The bow and day hatches are round, while the stern compartment is accessed through large oval hatch.
*A skeg looks like the fin on the bottom of a surf board except on sea kayaks this skeg is designed to retract into a trunk on the bottom of the hull. With the skeg up, the Tempests are very maneuverable; put the skeg down and Tempests track straight even in side wind conditions where most kayaks without rudders weathercock (turn up wind). This combination of good hull design and a retractable skeg are fast making rudders (and all their problems and limitations) obsolete on sea kayaks (at least for people who know how to paddle).
Call the Kayak Academy to arrange a demo.
206 527-1825