Old Town Loon 120 Kayak: Features And Review
Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting into kayaking or upgrading your current boat? Let's dive deep into the Old Town Loon 120 Kayak. This kayak has been a popular choice for recreational paddlers for years, and for good reason. It's known for its stability, comfort, and user-friendly design. In this article, we'll explore all the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the Loon 120 so you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right kayak for you.
Overview of the Old Town Loon 120 Kayak
The Old Town Loon 120 is a recreational kayak designed for calm waters, like lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. It’s built for paddlers who prioritize comfort and stability over speed and extreme maneuverability. This makes it a fantastic option for beginners, recreational kayakers, and anyone who wants a relaxing day on the water. The Loon 120 is part of the Loon series from Old Town, which is known for its focus on comfort and ease of use. It’s a sit-inside kayak, meaning you sit within the hull of the boat, which provides protection from the elements and a lower center of gravity for increased stability. This design is particularly beneficial for those who are new to kayaking or who prefer a more secure and stable feel on the water. The Loon 120's dimensions are approximately 12 feet long and 29.5 inches wide, offering a good balance between tracking (how well the kayak stays in a straight line) and maneuverability (how easily it turns). This size makes it manageable for most paddlers to handle both on and off the water. The kayak's weight capacity is around 325 pounds, which is sufficient for most paddlers and some gear, making it suitable for day trips and shorter excursions.
Who is the Old Town Loon 120 For?
The Old Town Loon 120 kayak is perfect for a wide range of paddlers, especially those who value stability and comfort. If you're just starting out in kayaking, this boat is an excellent choice because its stable design makes it easy to learn the basics. You'll feel confident and secure on the water, which is crucial when you're still getting the hang of paddling techniques and balance. Recreational paddlers who enjoy leisurely paddles on calm waters will also find the Loon 120 to be a great fit. Whether you're exploring a serene lake, gently gliding down a slow-moving river, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the water, this kayak provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Its design allows you to relax and take in the scenery without constantly worrying about stability. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate the Loon 120's stability, which makes it easier to observe wildlife and capture photos without rocking the boat. The spacious cockpit and comfortable seating also mean you can spend more time on the water without feeling cramped or uncomfortable. Anglers who prefer calm-water fishing will find the Loon 120 to be a suitable platform as well. While it's not specifically designed as a fishing kayak, its stability and ample storage space make it a viable option for casual fishing trips. You can easily bring along your fishing gear and enjoy a peaceful day on the water while casting a line.
Key Features and Benefits
The Old Town Loon 120 kayak comes packed with features designed to enhance your paddling experience. Let's break down some of the most important ones:
1. Comfort Seating System
One of the standout features of the Loon 120 is its ACS2 (Active Comfort System 2.0) seat. This seating system is designed with comfort in mind, allowing you to spend hours on the water without feeling stiff or sore. The seat features adjustable back support, so you can customize the fit to your liking. This is a game-changer for long paddles, as proper back support can significantly reduce fatigue and discomfort. The seat also has a padded bottom and breathable mesh fabric, which helps to keep you cool and dry, even on warm days. This is especially important because sitting in a kayak for extended periods can lead to discomfort if the seat isn't properly ventilated. The adjustability of the ACS2 seat means you can fine-tune it to your body, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. Whether you prefer a more upright position or a reclined posture, you can adjust the seat to accommodate your needs. This level of customization is rare in recreational kayaks and is a major selling point for the Loon 120.
2. Exceptional Stability
The Loon 120 is known for its outstanding stability, thanks to its wide beam (width) and well-designed hull. This stability is crucial, especially for beginners or those who are new to kayaking. A stable kayak minimizes the risk of tipping over, allowing you to feel more secure and confident on the water. The wide beam provides a solid platform, making it easier to maintain your balance, even in choppy conditions or when you're shifting your weight. The hull design also plays a significant role in the kayak's stability. The Loon 120 features a hull that's optimized for tracking and stability, ensuring that the boat stays upright and moves smoothly through the water. This combination of a wide beam and a stable hull makes the Loon 120 an excellent choice for anyone who wants a worry-free paddling experience. Whether you're exploring calm lakes or navigating gentle rivers, you can trust the Loon 120 to keep you stable and secure.
3. Ample Storage Space
Storage is an important consideration for any kayak, especially if you plan on going on longer trips or bringing along gear. The Old Town Loon 120 doesn't disappoint in this area. It features a rear hatch with a bulkhead, providing a dry storage compartment for your essentials. This is perfect for stashing things like a dry bag with extra clothing, snacks, or a first-aid kit. The hatch seals tightly to keep water out, ensuring that your gear stays dry even if you encounter splashes or waves. In addition to the rear hatch, the Loon 120 also has a front deck bungee system. This is a great place to secure items that you want to have quick access to, such as a water bottle, a map, or a small camera. The bungees hold your gear securely in place, preventing it from sliding around while you're paddling. The cockpit also has some storage space, including molded-in trays and cup holders. These are handy for keeping small items like your phone, keys, or sunglasses within easy reach. With all these storage options, the Loon 120 makes it easy to bring along everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water. Whether you're planning a short paddle or a longer excursion, you'll have plenty of space to store your gear.
4. Durable Construction
The Old Town Loon 120 is built to last, thanks to its durable polyethylene construction. Polyethylene is a tough and impact-resistant material that can withstand the rigors of regular use. This means you don't have to worry about the kayak getting damaged if you accidentally bump into rocks or scrape against the shore. The durable construction also makes the Loon 120 a great investment, as it will hold up well over time. You can expect to get many years of use out of this kayak, making it a worthwhile purchase for serious paddlers. The Loon 120's polyethylene hull is not only durable but also UV-resistant. This is important because prolonged exposure to the sun can cause some plastics to degrade over time. The Loon 120's UV-resistant construction ensures that the kayak will maintain its structural integrity and appearance, even after spending hours in the sun. This is a significant advantage, especially if you live in a sunny area or plan on doing a lot of paddling during the summer months. The kayak's hardware, such as the handles and straps, is also made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the elements. This attention to detail ensures that every component of the Loon 120 is built to last, providing you with a reliable and durable kayak that you can count on for years to come.
5. Easy to Handle
The Old Town Loon 120 strikes a great balance between size and weight, making it relatively easy to handle both on and off the water. At 12 feet long, it's long enough to track well in the water but not so long that it's difficult to maneuver. This is a sweet spot for recreational kayaks, as it provides a good blend of stability and performance. The kayak's weight, which is around 50 pounds, is manageable for most adults to lift and carry. This is an important consideration if you'll be transporting the kayak on top of your car or carrying it to the water's edge. While 50 pounds is not super light, it's within a reasonable range for a kayak of this size and construction. The Loon 120 also features comfortable carrying handles at the bow and stern, making it easier to grip and lift. These handles are ergonomically designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip, which is essential when you're carrying the kayak over uneven terrain. The kayak's cockpit is spacious and easy to get in and out of, which is another factor that contributes to its ease of use. Whether you're launching from a dock or a sandy beach, you'll appreciate how easy it is to enter and exit the Loon 120. This is particularly important for beginners or anyone who may have mobility issues.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Old Town Loon 120 has many great features, it's important to consider its potential drawbacks as well. No kayak is perfect for everyone, so understanding the limitations of the Loon 120 will help you make an informed decision.
1. Not Ideal for Rough Waters
The Loon 120 is designed primarily for calm waters, such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Its stability and comfortable design make it a great choice for these environments, but it's not the best option for rougher conditions. If you're planning on kayaking in choppy waters, strong currents, or open ocean, the Loon 120 may not be the most suitable choice. Its wider beam, which contributes to its stability, also makes it less efficient in rough waters. The kayak may feel slower and more difficult to control in these conditions. Additionally, the Loon 120's open cockpit design means that it's more susceptible to taking on water in waves. While it does have scupper plugs to drain water, it's still not ideal for situations where you're likely to encounter large waves or splashes. If you anticipate paddling in rough waters frequently, you may want to consider a kayak that's specifically designed for those conditions. Sea kayaks, for example, are narrower and have a more streamlined hull, which makes them more efficient in choppy waters. They also typically have a closed cockpit design, which provides better protection from the elements. However, if you primarily paddle in calm waters, the Loon 120's limitations in rough conditions are unlikely to be a major concern.
2. Speed and Efficiency
The Old Town Loon 120 prioritizes stability and comfort over speed and efficiency. This means that it's not the fastest kayak on the water, and it may require more effort to paddle over long distances. If you're looking for a kayak that can cover ground quickly or if you enjoy long-distance paddling, the Loon 120 may not be the best fit. Its wider beam and hull design, which contribute to its stability, also create more drag in the water. This means that you'll need to exert more energy to maintain a certain speed compared to a narrower, more streamlined kayak. The Loon 120's primary focus is on providing a comfortable and stable paddling experience, rather than maximizing speed and efficiency. This makes it an excellent choice for recreational paddlers who want to relax and enjoy the scenery, but it may not be the best option for those who are focused on performance or covering long distances. If you're concerned about speed and efficiency, you may want to consider a touring kayak or a sea kayak, which are designed for longer distances and higher speeds. However, if you prioritize comfort and stability, the Loon 120's trade-off in speed may be acceptable.
3. Weight
While the Old Town Loon 120 is manageable for most adults to carry, its weight (around 50 pounds) can be a consideration for some paddlers. If you have physical limitations or if you frequently paddle solo, the weight of the Loon 120 may make it challenging to transport and launch. While 50 pounds is not excessively heavy for a kayak of this size and construction, it's still a significant weight to lift and carry, especially over longer distances or uneven terrain. If you have back problems or other physical limitations, you may want to consider a lighter kayak or invest in a kayak cart to make transportation easier. Solo paddlers may also find the weight of the Loon 120 to be a challenge, as it can be difficult to load and unload the kayak from a car or carry it to the water's edge without assistance. If you primarily paddle solo, a lighter kayak or a kayak with built-in wheels may be a better option. However, if you have the physical strength to handle the weight or if you typically paddle with a partner, the Loon 120's weight is unlikely to be a major issue.
Alternatives to the Old Town Loon 120
If you're not sure whether the Old Town Loon 120 is the right kayak for you, there are several alternatives to consider. These kayaks offer different features and benefits, so it's worth exploring your options to find the perfect fit for your needs.
1. Perception Sound 10.5
The Perception Sound 10.5 is another popular recreational kayak that's known for its stability and comfort. It's a bit shorter than the Loon 120, making it more maneuverable in tight spaces. The Sound 10.5 is a great option for beginners or anyone who wants a lightweight and easy-to-handle kayak. One of the key advantages of the Perception Sound 10.5 is its compact size. At 10.5 feet long, it's shorter and more nimble than the Loon 120, which can be an advantage in narrow waterways or when you need to make quick turns. The shorter length also makes it easier to store and transport. The Sound 10.5 is also relatively lightweight, making it easier to carry and launch. This is a significant benefit for solo paddlers or anyone who has physical limitations. The kayak's cockpit is designed for comfort, with a padded seat and adjustable backrest. It also has molded-in knee and thigh pads, which provide added support and control. The Perception Sound 10.5 is a versatile kayak that's well-suited for a variety of recreational paddling activities. Whether you're exploring calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, or coastal waters, this kayak can handle it with ease. Its stability and maneuverability make it a great choice for beginners, while its comfortable design makes it enjoyable for experienced paddlers as well.
2. Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a high-performance recreational kayak that's known for its speed and tracking. It's a great option for paddlers who want a kayak that can cover ground quickly and efficiently. The Pungo 120 also has a comfortable seat and ample storage space. One of the standout features of the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is its sleek and efficient hull design. This design allows the kayak to glide smoothly through the water, making it faster and more efficient than many other recreational kayaks. If you enjoy paddling long distances or if you want to cover ground quickly, the Pungo 120 is an excellent choice. The Pungo 120 is also known for its comfortable seating system. The Phase 3 AirPro seat is adjustable and provides excellent support, allowing you to spend hours on the water without feeling fatigued. The seat is also breathable, which helps to keep you cool and dry on warm days. In addition to its performance and comfort, the Pungo 120 also has ample storage space. It features two sealed hatches, one in the bow and one in the stern, providing plenty of room for gear. There's also a bungee system on the deck for securing additional items. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a versatile kayak that's well-suited for a variety of paddling activities. It's a great choice for exploring lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, and its speed and efficiency make it ideal for longer trips. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, you'll appreciate the Pungo 120's performance, comfort, and versatility.
3. Pelican Mustang 100X
The Pelican Mustang 100X is a budget-friendly option that's great for recreational paddling. It's a stable and easy-to-paddle kayak that's perfect for beginners. The Mustang 100X is also lightweight and easy to transport. One of the main advantages of the Pelican Mustang 100X is its affordability. It's one of the most budget-friendly kayaks on the market, making it a great option for those who are just getting started in kayaking or who don't want to spend a lot of money. Despite its low price, the Mustang 100X doesn't compromise on quality or performance. It's made from durable materials and has a stable hull design, making it easy to paddle and maneuver. The Mustang 100X is also lightweight, which makes it easy to carry and transport. This is a significant benefit for solo paddlers or anyone who has limited storage space. The kayak's cockpit is designed for comfort, with a padded seat and adjustable backrest. It also has molded-in footrests, which provide added support and control. While the Pelican Mustang 100X may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive kayaks, it's a solid and reliable option for recreational paddling. It's a great choice for beginners, casual paddlers, or anyone who's looking for an affordable and easy-to-use kayak.
Conclusion: Is the Old Town Loon 120 Right for You?
So, is the Old Town Loon 120 the right kayak for you? Ultimately, the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize stability, comfort, and ease of use, the Loon 120 is an excellent choice. It's a fantastic kayak for recreational paddling on calm waters, and its comfortable seating system makes it ideal for longer trips. However, if you're planning on paddling in rough waters or if you prioritize speed and efficiency, you may want to consider other options. The Loon 120's limitations in these areas may make it less suitable for your needs. Before making a decision, it's important to consider where you'll be paddling, what kind of paddling you'll be doing, and what features are most important to you. If possible, try out a few different kayaks before making a purchase. This will give you a better sense of what you like and what works best for you. No matter which kayak you choose, remember to always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and follow safe paddling practices. Kayaking is a fun and rewarding activity, but it's important to be prepared and take precautions to ensure your safety. Happy paddling, guys!
