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Pelican Argo 100X Kayaks Review

Mark Armstrong
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​The Pelican Argo 100X is a compact sit-inside kayak that is built for recreational paddling.

It comes with a padded seat, drain plug, storage and even a paddle, so it can be an ideal starter kayak.

100X EXO

  • ​Length: 10 foot
  • ​Width: 28 inches
  • ​Weight: 36 pounds 5 ounces
  • ​Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

This 10 foot boat is designed to be lightweight and easy to paddle, with a spacious cockpit that can offer added comfort for beginners. The 100X is built for casual flatwater paddling but it also comes in an angler version if you’re looking to do a little fishing.

​Things You Should Know Before Buying A Pelican Argo 100X

The Pelican Argo 100X is a durable, lightweight sit-inside kayak that is aimed at recreational paddlers. It can be a good choice if you’re looking to paddle on calm lakes and bays, ponds or slow moving rivers.

The boat is built for stability on flatwater and can be great for beginners. The large cockpit means it can be easier to get in and out of, especially if you’re new to sit-insides, and can help you feel less confined.

The sit-inside design can also make it a good choice if you want to paddle all year round, with the cockpit providing extra protection from splashes and the weather.

However, if you’re looking for something speedy or to handle currents, this probably isn’t a good choice. A touring kayak might be a better option.

​Argo 100X Angler

The 100X Angler benefits from having two flush mounted rod holders behind the cockpit, as well as a swivel rod holder at the front. While this craft offers similar stability and performance, it doesn’t have the removable storage compartment that’s found on the 100X.

Instead it has a rear tank well with bungee cords that can be ideal for holding a fishing crate or cooler.

​Top Features Of The Pelican Sport Argo 100X EXO

​Spacious Cockpit

The cockpit measures 50 x 24.5 inches so it can feel a little less confined than some sit-insides. This can be useful if you’re not used to sit-insides, as you may find this easier when it comes to getting in and out.

The cockpit also benefits from having adjustable footrests, as well as knee pads and a padded adjustable seat with seat back. For added comfort there is also a bottle holder in the seat so that you can keep your beverage within arm’s reach.

There’s a second bottle holder on the little dashboard at the front of the cockpit, where you’ll also find little storage compartments or flat surfaces if you want to mount accessories.

​Storage Compartments

A great feature of this boat is the storage. There is a covered bow hatch with bungee rigging to keep it secure. At the rear there is a tank well with bungees for holding larger gear.

There’s also a 17 liter Exopod. This is a removable storage compartment that can be loaded up with your gear at home and then packed into the rear tank well for your paddling trip. This means you can easily take it with you when you stop for lunch during your trip.

With the weight capacity being 275 pounds, you might find if you’re a larger paddler that you’re not able to load it up with a lot of gear. But it can be ideal for smaller paddlers with or without gear.

​Stable Hull

One of the main features of this boat is its stability. It has a Twin Arched Multi Chine Hull, which is designed to offer a good level of stability on flatwater. This can make it feel less tippy if you’re a beginner. However, it’s not designed for currents or moving water.

​Video: Pelican Argo 100

The slight V-shaped hull at the bow and stern can make the yak easy to paddle with improved tracking for staying on course. Its short length can also mean it’s easy to maneuver.

We think it’s a great boat for a relaxing paddle and we’re not the only ones:

​Argo 100X Alternatives

​Eddyline Sky 10

If you’re looking for a little more speed, the Eddyline Sky 10 might be better, as it’s a little narrower. It’s lighter than the Argo but is also more pricey. It’s built for flatwater paddling and has two dry hatches and bungee rigging. It does have a large cockpit but the rim is quite a bit narrower than the Argo.

​Dagger Zydeco 9.0

The Dagger Zydeco 9.0 is a foot shorter, which could make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces as well as improve stability. It has a multi-adjustable seat for added comfort and benefits from having a paddle holder. It has front and rear bungee rigging for storing gear on deck.

​Emotion Kayaks Revel 10

The Revel 10 is a similar size to the Argo 100X but is a little heavier. However, a useful feature is the wheel in the skeg which can help you pull your kayak from A to B. It’s designed for flatwater recreational paddling and has a large cockpit and a rear storage hatch.


Argo 100X: ​Common Questions

Is The Argo 100X Good For Big And Tall Paddlers?

Not really. You might feel more comfortable in a longer vessel for added leg room, or a sit-on-top craft with open seating area.

Is This Kayak OK For Beginners?

Yes, this can be ideal for beginners. It’s stable, easy to paddle and easy to get in and out of.

Is There A Paddle Included?

Yes, a 226cm paddle is included.


​In Conclusion

Pelican Argo 100XPin

Pros

  • ​Lightweight
  • ​Stable
  • ​Paddle included

​Cons

  • Not ideal for currents
  • ​Not built for speed

The Pelican Argo 100X can be an ideal starter kayak, as it comes complete with a paddle so you can get out on the water straight away. It’s stable, durable and easy to paddle, as well as being lightweight for easy transportation.

If you’d like to explore your local lakes and slow moving rivers and think this could be a great fit for you, check it out here.

Let us know your thoughts on this yak and share this review if you think it could help others. Or why not check out our guide on Pelican kayak reviews.

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