Zegul Arrow Nuka GT 16'7"

A shorter waterline doesn't have to mean a compromise in speed, and the Zegul Arrow Nuka GT makes a convincing case for that at 16'7".

Originally designed in Denmark by Jesper Kromann-Andersen and brought into the Zegul family in 2014, the Nuka GT blends classic British sea kayak lines with a distinctly Scandinavian sense of precision and style. The 20.5-inch beam is genuinely narrow, and combined with a raking bow and stern that maximises waterline length, this kayak accelerates quickly and holds a touring pace with surprisingly little effort. The slightly rounded hull reduces wetted surface area for efficiency, while hard chines deliver solid secondary stability and responsive edging. It transitions from edge to edge cleanly, and turns with real agility for a hard-chined sea kayak. Sized for paddlers in the 125 to 185 lb range, it suits intermediate and advanced paddlers well, and gives motivated newcomers something to grow into.

Outfitting follows European conventions: straightforward, well-positioned, and built around boat control rather than cushioning. The keyhole cockpit is easy to get in and out of, the multi-adjustable thigh braces and footbraces set up good contact points for skill development, and the manually adjustable backband dials in support once you've got it set. The low rear deck is an asset for layback rolls and assisted rescues alike. Four Kayak Sport VCP-style hatches including a handy mini foredeck pod for electronics give the Nuka GT more accessible storage than most Greenland-influenced designs in this class.

• Length: 16'7"
• Weight: 42 lbs (3D C-Core)
• Beam: 20.5"
• Lay-up: 3D C-Core carbon/Kevlar with vacuum infused epoxy resin
• Cockpit: Keyhole with multi-adjustable thigh braces, backband, and footbraces
• Hatches: Bow round 10", stern oval 17" x 10.25", day round 8", mini bow pod 6"
• Bulkheads: 3 composite with fibreglass seams
• Skeg: Retractable
• Seam: Aramid/Kevlar
• Safety: Reflective perimeter lines, recessed deck fittings