Difference Between Swift & Blast Kayak

The Swift and the Blast, by Q-Kayaks and Victory Kayaks, respectively, are both recreational kayaks. They do have significant differences, however. These differences will help you decide which boat is right for you, depending on your skill level, price range, and the type of kayaking you plan on doing.

  1. Type of recreational kayak

    • The Swift is an open kayak, also called a sit-on-top. This means the paddler sits on top of the boat instead of in it, which can make a beginning kayaker more comfortable. The Blast is a closed boat, which means the paddler sits in an area called the cockpit. While a beginner may feel a bit trapped at first, once they become comfortable the closed boat offers more control and versatility.

    Speed

    • The Swift measures 14 feet, 9 inches long. The Blast is significantly shorter, at 9 feet, 6 inches. Length of a kayak is a good indication of how fast it will be, with the longer boats holding the speed advantage over the shorter ones. If you are considering doing very long trips, the Swift is probably a superior choice in this category.

    Turning ability

    • Contrary to speed, longer boats will prove more difficult to turn. The Blast will have a significant advantage in this category. While paddling experience will definitely improve your ability to turn a longer boat, the shorter kayak will always be easier. Also, the retractable rudder on the Swift will help the boat's ability to turn, but not so much that it is easier than the Blast.

    Versatility

    • Taking all the factors into consideration, the Blast will turn out to be the more versatile kayak. Because it is a closed boat, it can be paddled wearing a neoprene sprayskirt, which stretches over the cockpit of the boat and keeps water out. This, combined with the increased control the closed boat offers, as well as its turning ability, means it can be paddled in small rapids. The Swift is designed for use in primarily calm, flat water. Additionally, the Blast weighs in at a more manageable 41 pounds, compared to the 52 pound Swift.

    Price

    • A category in which the two boats also differ significantly is price. Confluence Watersports retired the Victory Kayaks brand in August of 2004, however they can still be found for sale at a price of about $200. On the contrary, a Swift has a price tag of around $1,500. Purchasing a Swift is a significant investment, so you should be sure it is exactly the boat you're looking for.