Pyranha 9R Test Drive - By Andre Spino-Smith
By Andre Spino-Smith The Pyranha 9R truly shines in big, powerful whitewater. Anyone who paddles on higher volume rivers knows that hitting lines, catching eddies and generally staying in control requires a deceptively large amount of effort. The Pyranha Kayaks 9R, especially when compared to the Nomad (which I've paddled for the last 10+ years) and other boats with round hulls, is uniquely suited for lines which require precise movement through current differentials such as eddylines, diagonal waves, boils, pillows, etc. Creek boats with traditional hulls like the Nomad feel more susceptible to being thrown around by such features. In contrast, when paddled assertively the Pyranha 9R cruises over or through them as if they weren’t even there. Pyranha9R_Review_Andre_Image_6 Another surprising attribute of the Pyranha 9R is predictability. I assumed the race-driven design would come along with a couple of quirky handling characteristics. On the contrary I’ve found that it makes the most unpredictable river features - raised eddylines, cross-currents and seams for example - easier to deal with because it just goes straight through them. Never once have I been caught off guard by its relatively aggressive looking design. Pyranha9R_Review_Andre_Image_3 The Pyranha 9R’s real magic however is its ability to transfer downward momentum, as in falling off of a drop, into forward momentum. You can check out a great example starting at minute 1:24 of this video: https://vimeo.com/158306180. Acceleration like this is exceptionally fun and will change how you perceive even the most familiar drops. Pyranha9R_Review_Andre_Image_1 For the majority of creeks, even difficult ones, the 9R will do great. However, it wouldn’t be my first choice for extremely steep and low volume runs. In my opinion nine feet is on the long side when sharp turns in tight quarters are commonplace. Plus its length and low stern rocker mean that boofing is not automatic. If you absolutely must get your bow up to avoid hitting bottom and there’s no “auto boof” launch pad, I would rather be in something other than the 9R. Keep in mind that I’m describing the type of high consequence boof found only on legitimate class 5 creek runs. The 9R’s lack of anytime, anywhere boof-ability should be of little concern unless you’re pushing the limits. Pyranha9R_Review_Andre_Image_5 To summarize, this boat has added a fresh, high performance feel to my time on the water. Any high volume creek boat with tons of rocker will do if your goal is simply to survive. If you aspire to paddle with speed and precision, the 9R is a step in the right direction.

About Us

We're a group of whitewater kayak, raft, and stand up paddleboard enthusiasts committed to stocking the highest-quality gear and deliver it to you as quickly as possible.

Learn more about us

Don't Forget About These

What else are we up to?

View all
Rafting the Main Fork of the Salmon River

Rafting the Main Fork of the Salmon River

multi-day tripsJonathan Kahn
by Alden Kahn  If you love boating as much as we do at CKS, then you most likely agree that there is no week better spent than a week on the river....
Down and Dirty: 9 Items You Need for Your Dry Suit Repair Kit

Down and Dirty: 9 Items You Need for Your Dry Suit Repair Kit

GearCKS Team
Whitewater dry wear is the largest apparel investment any boater can make. For those who want to extend the life and use of their dry suit (or dry top), it's best to keep a dry suit repair kit on hand. Read our 9 recommendations for the best dry suit repair kit!
Whitewater Kayak Paddle Buying Guide

Whitewater Kayak Paddle Buying Guide

CKS Team
Choosing the right paddle for whitewater kayaking can be daunting with all the available paddle options to consider. We are here to help! ...