Zegul Arrow Play LV

Lighter paddlers often get shortchanged when it comes to genuinely performance-oriented sea kayaks, and the Zegul Arrow Play LV A-Core fixes that with a hull properly sized for paddlers in the 95 to 155 lb range.

Designed by Jesper Kromann-Andersen and built in A-Core fibreglass, the Play LV brings real durability to a performance-focused hull. Sandwich deck construction, a reinforced keel, and aramid seam taping inside and out give this kayak the structural integrity to handle rocky launches and gravel beaches without requiring kid-glove treatment. The significant bow rocker and volume keep the nose from pearling on large wave faces, while the rounded mid-ship profile transitions smoothly from edge to edge in rough water. Hard chines provide predictable secondary stability for confident edging and bracing, and the low deck profile minimises wind resistance on open crossings. The rockered bow makes following seas genuinely entertaining.

Outfitting is European in approach: well-considered and precisely placed. The keyhole cockpit suits most paddlers in the target weight range well, though taller paddlers may need to slide in straight-legged. The nut-and-bolt adjustable backband takes a few sessions to dial in but delivers solid support once set, and multi-adjustable thigh braces and footpegs give you the contact points needed for rolling and bracing. Four Kayak Sport VCP-style hatches with a mini foredeck pod handle everything from a day's essentials to overnight kit.

• Lay-up: A-Core fibreglass with sandwich deck and aramid seam taping
• Weight: [confirm with Frontenac]
• Paddler weight range: 95 to 155 lbs
• Cockpit: Keyhole with contour backband, multi-adjustable thigh braces, adjustable footpegs
• Hull: Shallow arch with significant bow rocker and hard chines
• Hatches: Bow round 10", stern oval 17" x 10.25", day round 8", mini bow pod 6"
• Bulkheads: 4 composite with fibreglass seams
• Skeg: Retractable, port-side slider
• Seam: Aramid/Kevlar
• Safety: Reflective perimeter lines, recessed deck fittings