Finding a kayak that is lightweight and easy to handle can be tough, especially if you want something stable for calm lakes or slow rivers. We tried out the Argo 100X and were pleased with how simple it was to lift, load into a car, and carry to the water. Even getting in and out felt steady and safe for both new and experienced paddlers. Here’s our Pelican Argo 100X Kayak Review…
On the water, we noticed the kayak felt stable and tracked well during a casual paddle. The adjustable seat and footrests made longer sessions comfortable. We did see that while the Argo 100X is very easy to lift and store, some may find it just a bit less stable than wider or heavier models, especially in rougher water.
Bottom Line
The Argo 100X is a smart pick if you want a kayak that’s simple to carry, comfortable to use, and reliable for fun trips. If you’re looking for something light and stable, consider getting the Argo 100X here.
Our Pelican Argo 100X Kayak Review
After taking the Argo 100X out on the water, we noticed it’s lighter than many kayaks we’ve used. At only 36 pounds, it’s manageable for one person to load and unload. The hull design keeps things steady, which makes it easier to get in and out, even if you’re new to kayaking.
The seat and footrests are adjustable, offering comfort for short trips. Storage is decent with a rear tank and a front hatch, though accessing gear while seated can be tricky. While tracking isn’t perfect and it’s not the fastest kayak, it handles calm lakes and slow rivers well.
We did run into minor issues, like a seat strap that felt too tight out of the box. Still, for day trips and easy paddling, the Argo 100X offers a good experience, especially for those who want something light and simple to use.
Stable Twin-Arched Multi-Chine Hull
When we took the Argo 100X out on the water, we noticed how steady it felt right away. The twin-arched multi-chine hull design really helps keep things balanced, even when getting in and out. We didn’t feel like we were going to tip, which made us more confident, especially in gentle waves.
On the downside, this shape can make it a little less responsive compared to kayaks with a sleeker hull. Turning is fine for calm water, but it doesn’t cut through choppy water as easily. Still, if stability is more important for us than speed, the Argo’s hull is a good fit.
Lightweight and Easy Transportation
Carrying this kayak felt much easier than others we’ve tried in the past. Weighing about 36 pounds, the Argo 100X didn’t strain our backs, even when moving it alone or loading it onto the car rack. The shape made it simple for us to grip and balance, so getting it from the garage to the water was straightforward.
We also noticed that its size fit well in most vehicles, which helped us avoid dealing with roof straps for short trips. The main downside is that while it’s light, carrying it over long distances without a cart could become tiring for some people. Overall, we found it to be one of the more manageable kayaks to transport for short and regular outings.
Durable Ram-X Material
When we took the Argo 100X onto the water, we noticed right away how tough it felt. The Ram-X material handled bumps against rocks and scrapes along the shore with barely a scratch. This gave us extra peace of mind, especially in shallow areas.
One thing we did find is that while the hull resists dents and cracks, it can pick up some minor surface marks over time. Still, the kayak stood up well after repeated outings.
Good:
- Holds up to rough use
- Keeps its shape after impacts
Bad:
- Shows light scratches with heavy use
We think the Ram-X material is reliable for those who don’t want to worry about their kayak every time they head outside.
Safety Features and Buoyancy
Out on the water, we noticed how steady the Argo 100X felt, even with small waves. The flat bottom and twin-arched hull really help keep it stable, so tipping isn’t much of a worry. Getting in and out is also simple—we didn’t have that shaky feeling you get with some slimmer kayaks.
There are foam blocks inside for extra flotation, which adds a sense of safety if water splashes in. This makes us more comfortable staying close to shore or even heading out a bit further. One downside is the 275 lb weight limit, so it might not suit everyone, especially with extra gear.
Summary Table
| Feature | How it Felt to Us |
|---|---|
| Stability | Secure, steady |
| Extra Flotation | Gave extra peace of mind |
| Entry/Exit | Easy and safe |
Ergoform Seating and Comfort
After spending a few hours paddling, we noticed how much a good seat matters. The Ergoform system in the Argo 100X gives decent back support with enough padding to avoid sore spots. Adjusting the backrest and footrests was simple—and really helpful for keeping a comfortable posture.
The seat isn’t built for luxury, but it gets the job done for short and medium trips. We didn’t notice much stiffness or slipping. However, we felt that the cushion could be a bit thicker for all-day journeys. Overall, comfort is above average for a kayak in this price range.
Storage and Onboard Convenience
Getting out on the water means bringing a few essentials, and we found that this kayak makes it pretty simple to keep things organized and within reach.
Front Storage Hatch and Rear Tank
There’s a front hatch with a hatch cover. It’s not fully watertight, but it does a good job blocking splashes. We were able to fit snacks, sunscreen, and a phone in a dry bag up front. The hatch opens wide enough to let you store small gear but isn’t big enough for bulky items.
In the back, there’s a tank well that comes with a mesh cover. This is great for holding a dry bag, a small tackle box, or a light jacket. The mesh keeps gear from shifting around, but we noticed it can be tricky to secure larger items if you pack too much. Here’s a quick summary:
| Area | Capacity | Security |
|---|---|---|
| Front Hatch | Small gear | Splash-resistant |
| Rear Tank | Medium/light bags | Mesh cover holds gear |
Cockpit Table and Bottle Holders
Inside the cockpit, there’s a molded table. We found this handy for odds and ends like sunglasses, lip balm, or a snack bar. It helps keep things from rolling around and getting lost under the seat.
There are also two bottle holders within arm’s reach. They’re convenient, but neither fits wide water bottles. Regular 16-20 oz bottles stay in place well. While the holders aren’t super high-end, they’re practical for shorter trips.
Pros:
- Easy to access storage while paddling
- Simple bottle holders help keep drinks upright
Cons: - Not ideal for large or bulky gear
- Storage isn’t fully waterproof
Overall, the Argo makes it easy to bring just enough for a relaxed day paddle without feeling cramped. We appreciated the practical storage, even if a few parts could be a bit bigger.
Pros and Cons
Pros
We found the Argo 100X easy to carry and load by ourselves thanks to its light weight. At only 36 pounds, most of us could lift or transport it without help. This was a big plus, especially when moving it from the car to the water.
The kayak feels steady on calm lakes and slow-moving rivers. Getting in and out is simple because of the wide, stable shape. A few of us who are new to kayaking felt confident right away, even when the water got a little choppy.
Comfort was better than we expected. The seat padding, adjustable backrest, and different footrest positions meant we could find a spot that worked for us. Even after an hour or two, we didn’t get too uncomfortable.
Another thing we liked is the tough material. The kayak handled bumps and minor scrapes without any trouble. We feel it should last many seasons with normal use.
Highlights:
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Stable for beginners and older adults
- Comfortable seating for longer trips
- Durable, impact-resistant material
Cons
While the kayak is sturdy, we noticed it’s not as fast as some other models. Paddling over long distances takes a bit more effort, and it doesn’t cut through waves as quickly. If speed matters, this could be a drawback.
Some of us found the storage space in the back limited, especially when bringing lots of gear for fishing or a full day on the water. The design keeps weight low, but that also means less room for bigger items.
There were also reports of minor quality issues out of the box, like a seat strap breaking. These problems aren’t common, but they can be frustrating when they happen.
Downsides:
- Not the best for long-distance or fast paddling
- Limited rear storage for larger gear
- Occasional small manufacturing defects
Overall, we think the Argo 100X covers most needs for a lightweight, easy-to-use kayak, though it may not suit those who want extra storage or speed.
Customer Reviews
From our experience, users appreciate how lightweight the Argo 100X is, making it easy for one person to carry and load into a car. Most of us found it steady and comfortable, even if we’re new to kayaking.
We noticed many enjoy its stable ride and smooth glide on the water. The adjustable seat and footrests add comfort during longer outings. Some of us did encounter minor quality issues, like a broken seat strap, but these problems seem rare.
Common highlights from reviews:
- Easy to transport and store
- Stable and beginner-friendly
- Comfortable seating
Some users mentioned it’s not the fastest or most maneuverable kayak, but overall, the value and ease of use stand out.
Conclusion
After taking this kayak out on the water, we found it light and easy to move around, even for one person. The seat and footrests are comfortable for shorter paddles, but we noticed some small quality issues like the seat strap being tight for a few users. Stability is good for calm waters, though it’s not as steady as some heavier models.
What stood out for us:
- Simple to carry and store
- Glides smoothly and tracks fairly straight
- Good value for the price
However, it may not suit those looking for top speed or serious fishing trips. For recreational use, especially for beginners or anyone needing something lightweight, this kayak delivers a solid overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve spent hours with the Argo 100X and looked over lots of feedback from other paddlers. Here’s what most people want to know before buying.
What are the main differences between the Argo 100X and the Mustang 100X?
After comparing them side by side, we noticed some clear differences:
The Mustang 100X is designed more for fishing, with extra rod holders and mounting options.
The Argo 100X keeps things simple, making it lighter and easier to handle, especially for beginners.
The seating and storage setups can differ slightly; the Mustang often includes more angler-specific features.
Choosing between them depends on whether your main use is fishing or recreational paddling.
How much weight can the Pelican Argo 100X safely support?
We found the Argo 100X has a listed weight capacity of 275 pounds. That includes your body weight plus any gear you bring on board.
It’s important not to exceed this limit to stay safe and keep the kayak stable.
If you’re close to the weight limit with your gear, consider a higher capacity model for better performance.
What features distinguish the Argo 100X Angler from the standard Argo 100X?
The Angler version adds a few fishing-friendly extras:
It includes features like rod holders and different storage solutions.
Angler models may have extra tie-downs or compartments for tackle and gear.
The standard version is more suited for casual paddling and offers a cleaner, less cluttered design.
For those who plan to fish regularly, the Angler upgrades make sense, but recreational users may prefer the lighter, simpler original.
Are there any significant improvements in the Argo 100X EXO over the previous models?
We’ve looked at both versions and here’s what stands out:
The EXO upgrades the seating and storage, sometimes including more comfortable materials or redesigned space for gear.
There can be slight changes in looks or small tweaks to the hull.
Real-world experience suggests these are minor adjustments, not major overhauls.
The overall performance and size feel very similar, so these aren’t radical changes but may be meaningful for some users.
What are the key specifications of the Pelican Argo 100X Kayak?
From our use and the product info:
Weight: 36 pounds
Length: 10 feet
Width: 28 inches
Material: RAM-X polyethylene
Max Weight Limit: 275 pounds
Seating: One, sit-in style
Hull Type: Twin-arched multi-chine
Seat: Ergoform padded system
Additional features include footrests, storage hatch, bungee cords, and bottle holders.
It’s lightweight for easy transport.
How do users rate the stability and maneuverability of the Pelican Argo 100X?
Based on our outings and feedback from other buyers, here’s a summary:
Light enough to lift and load solo.
Comfortable seating and multiple footrests add to the appeal.
Some wish for upgraded tracking and even more stability, but most found it balanced for casual paddling.
Overall, the Argo 100X is steady and forgiving for those starting out, and its lightweight build makes it accessible to a wide range of paddlers.
