Launched in March 2025, the LiquidLogic Torque combines the playfulness of the Hot Whip and the stability of a larger boat to create a playboating and river running machine. The updated features of the Torque make it a good all-around boat that will quickly become any paddler's go-to.
Tony Miely, owner at 4Corners Riversports, recently took the Torque for a test run in the Roaring Fork Valley. He breaks down what he likes about the newest LiquidLogic addition, including surfability, outfitting, and more. Let’s take a look.
LiquidLogic Torque Specs
|
Length |
8 ft |
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Width |
26.5 in |
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Volume |
62 US gallons |
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Boat Weight |
36 lbs |
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Cockpit Dimensions |
35″ × 20.5″ |
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Paddler Weight Range |
140–260 lb |
Design & Boat Performance
The Torque starts with the Hot Whip hull and, according to Tony, “takes a lot of the volume out of the bow,” without compromising on bow rocker. This helps give the kayak its dual characteristics as a river-running and play boat, allowing for bow-initiated cartwheels while still providing the paddler with features that get them up and over.
What’s more, the “fairly flat water line through the center” gives the boat good acceleration for a boat of its length. This speed comes in handy in Class IV when you need to “make a quick move [or] dodge a boulder.”
Surfability
The Torque is a surfing machine. The thoughtful design ensures “you’re not ever going to pearl” because the “bow rocker really keeps it up and out of the way.” The hard chines and reduced stern volume drive the boat on a wave, making it easy to spin and carve.
River Running
The harder chines and bow rocker on the LiquidLogic Torque also lend themselves to intuitive river running. In fact, Tony compares the Torque to the Supernova or Ozone and asserts that the Torque is “better at river running.”
The rocker and the comparatively increased bow volume of this “semi-full slice” make it a “fair bit more comfortable.” Long story short, the Torque can do it all and is a go-to boat for many river runners.
Outfitting
Tony lauds the signature LiquidLogic Badass Outfitting, saying, “In general, it's great.” Known for being one of the most comfortable setups in the industry, the new Torque now includes the Gorilla Grip Thigh Braces, which are “quite a bit more aggressive than years past” and give you “a much more locked-in and secure feel in the boat.”
The Torque also features a complete, adjustable bulkhead, rather than a simple foam foot block. This beefy bulkhead provides a stable base for your feet and gives “a little extra safety in there if you’re running rivers.”
Final Thoughts
LiquidLogic’s new Torque is a do-it-all kayak for playboating and river running alike. Combining the best of the Hot Whip with lower volume throughout created a boat that can go anywhere. Or as Tony put it, “I really enjoyed my time in the Torque and I plan on spending some more in it!”
