Dagger Stratos 14.5

$ 1,622.00 USD

Introduction

The Dagger Stratos now comes in two lengths (12.5' and 14.5') and each length has a Small and Large fitting size. This page is about the Stratos 14.5'

The Stratos 14.5' is a roto-molded plastic touring kayak with a drop-down skeg and an ergonomic keyhole cockpit. Stratos has a bit more speed than the Dagger Alchemy which it replaces and yet maintains a high level of maneuverability. The Stratos 14.5 is a solid choice for lakes, slow moving rivers, as well as coastal rock hopping and surf conditions. Stratos 14.5 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 Stratos 14.5 comes in two sizes: large (L) and small (S). Both are the same length, they are just designed to fit different size and weight paddlers.

Description

Compared to the Alchemy, the Stratos 14.5 has a bit more rocker, a slightly wider beam and longer waterline -- all of which combine to make the Strotos 14.5 even more playful. The shallow "V" cross section makes it track well, yet because it's only 14.5' long it's also very maneuverable, and it carves quickly when you edge it on the go. 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 Stratos 14.5, it is primarily designed for adventurous day trips. If you want kayak for day trips that include rock garden paddling and/or surfing in a touring kayak, a plastic Stratos 14.5 is the lowest cost kayak that can do all this well. If you want an easy kayak to roll, get a Stratos (it's size in an advantage at pool sessions too). If you are looking for your first sea kayak and can't afford a roto-molded Tempest - you'll be way better off with a plastic Stratos 14.5 than a cheap recreational kayak or older designed used glass sea kayak.

Stratos 14.5 come standard with: retractable skeg, recessed deck fittings & safety lines, rubber hatches, foam seat pad, and adjustable back rest. They have a well designed keyhole cockpit with good hip and knee braces, and a comfortable back band that adjusts. The hatches have rubber hatch lids that seal like food containers. The bow hatch is 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 kayak has its natural maneuverability; put the skeg down and the kayak tracks 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.

Specs

To see more specs, scroll table to the right

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 Stratos 14.5S	14.5' (442 cm)	23.5" (59.7 cm)	13" (33 cm)	53 lbs (24 kg)	2 bulkheads, 2 rubber hatches (round front and oval rear hatch)
Dagger Stratos 14.5L	14.5' (442 cm)	25" (63.5 cm)	14" (34cm)	56 lbs (25.4 kg)	" "

SPECIAL SHIPPING REQUIRED

Kayaks are excluded from our free shipping policy. Sea kayaks are expensive to ship and prone to being damaged. We recommend picking them up at our shop. If needed, we can provide contact info for specialty boat hauling businesses so you to arrange your own FOB shipping.