The Pyranha Reactr has only been on the market for a year, and it is already a favorite for big water paddlers and creekers alike. The new hull design, paired with the updated Pyranha outfitting, makes the Reactr a must-try for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
Adam Wetherell, 4Corners Shipping and Warehouse Manager, recently ripped Brown’s Canyon in the Reactr, and he has a few thoughts. In our latest YouTube video, he provided an overview of the Pyranha Reactr and explained why he loves it.
Specs
|
Size |
Length |
Width |
Volume |
Weight |
Opt Paddler Weight |
Cockpit |
|
S |
8'10 |
27 in |
81 gal |
48 lbs |
120-165 lbs |
L |
|
M |
8'11 |
27.5 in |
86 gal |
51 lbs |
155-210 lbs |
XL |
|
L |
9 |
28 in |
92 gal |
53 lbs |
185-275 lbs |
XL |
Performance and Maneuverability
From the hull to the outfitting, Pyranha made the Reactr highly responsive, dynamic, and …reactive. Or as Adam put it, “a dream to paddle.” Let’s take a look at what makes the Reactr different (and better) from previous models.
Planing Hull (X2)
Unlike any boat before it, the Reactr has two (2) planing surfaces: A bow planing surface and a distinct planing surface under the stern. Between the planing surfaces is a pivot point. This design is also known as a Pivot Hull Design.
The Pivot Hull makes the Reactr incredibly easy to pivot, turn, and control. The kayak “snaps into eddies” and “is super easy to maneuver all around the river.”
Edges
The Reactr’s Edges are undoubtedly softer than its predecessor, the Scorch. The softer edges are more forgiving for less experienced paddlers or in big boily water. On the other hand, the Reactr can still hold a line through chaotic water, especially in the hands of a more seasoned paddler.
The stern’s edges, closer to a half-slice than a true creeker, lend themselves to dropping the tail and driving the bow. Yet, the secondary planing hull keeps the tail from going under while simultaneously rocketing the boat forward.
Boofing
The aggressive bow rocker on the Reactr, combined with the pivot hull, ensures this boat “skips out of everything.” Because it’s easy to maneuver, lining up a boof is a breeze, and the tail design allows paddlers to “bury the stern…load it up, and send [the boat] right over,” similar to how a half-slice boofs.
The bow planing surface gives the boat stability when landing a big drop, and the stern’s planing surface spurns the boat forward, away from the hydraulic. In other words, “every boof feels like a dream.”
Outfitting and Adjustability
Pyranha’s new Elite Outfitting is a significant upgrade, and Adam couldn't say enough about how much it has improved. The Elite Outfitting features new, lightweight pocket foam in the seat and backband, which is soft and abrasion-resistant, providing a significantly more comfortable ride. According to Adam, “It’s like sitting on a cloud.”
The new outfitting also provides a more snug and locked-in feel for the paddler. Unlike previous Pyranha models, the Elite Outfitting comes with the more aggressive “hooker” thigh braces already installed, providing a “super secure ride.” Likewise, the backband sits higher and offers more support for the paddler.
The most welcome upgrade is to the adjustability of the boat. Or as Adam put it,
“It’s so easy to adjust, you don’t have to get your screw driver out.”
Moving the seat is as easy as unscrewing one wingnut in a matter of seconds. Gone are the Stout and Stout 2’s ratchet and buckle-style backbands, replaced with a more precise paracord and cleat system.
Final Thoughts
The Pyranha Reactr, with a never-before-seen pivot hull design and seriously upgraded outfitting, is perhaps in a league of its own. We asked Adam for a few pros and cons of the new Pyranha Reactr. While he did not hesitate to tout the new Elite Outfitting as a big pro, he could not think of any cons.
“I truly don’t have any cons; it’s an amazing boat.”
