Description

The Old Town Loon 126 Recreational Kayak is a premium sit-inside recreational kayak built for comfort, stability, and performance over long flatwater paddles, day trips, or light overnight excursions. It combines recreational ease with features more often found on touring/kayak-fishing boats, making it a versatile choice for serious paddlers who want more than a basic rec boat.

Major Features & Design Elements

Here are the standout features and how they contribute to performance, comfort, and utility:

1. ACS2 Seat (Active Comfort System 2.0)

   • Plush cushioning, ergonomic design, flow-through ventilation.

   • Under-leg support and intuitive adjustments help reduce fatigue on longer trips.

2. Sharp Keel Line / Hull Shape

   • The keel gives good tracking (i.e. the kayak holds a straight line better) which reduces effort when paddling over longer distances.

   • The 31-in beam gives decent stability, both primary and secondary, though there is a trade-off—wider boats track slightly less sharply and paddle speed may be lower.

3. Removable Workdeck with USB Port

   • A removable “dashboard” type console/workdeck at the front of the cockpit that allows you to mount or store gear, cameras, maps, etc. Also includes a dry storage compartment and USB port (battery supply not included) for electronics.

4. Storage & Hatch

   • Large stern dry hatch with a bulkhead and a watertight Quick-Seal cover to keep contents dry.

   • Deck rigging (bungees on bow and stern) for storing items you want quick access to (jacket, water bottle, etc.).

5. Foot Brace / Thigh Pads

   • Support Track foot brace system (adjustable), with contours and padding helps secure foot placement and improve control.

   • Thigh pads matching the ACS2 padding for added comfort, especially when leaning or bracing.

6. Handling and Stability

   • The kayak’s longer waterline relative to many short recreational kayaks helps glide and speed.

   • But with wider beam and significant deck height, it will catch wind more than narrower, lower rec or touring models.

7. Carrying / Transport / Durability

   • Bow and stern carry handles help when moving to/from shore or loading.

   • Made in Maine (Old Town) with solid manufacturing; polyethylene hull resists impacts, UV, rough landings.

Advantages

• High Load Capacity: Able to carry a heavy paddler + gear comfortably while still performing well.

• Comfort for Long Days: The ACS2 seat, well-designed foot brace, thigh pads, cockpit room all reduce fatigue.

• Good Tracking: Sharp keel and hull shape help you go straighter, less correction needed with paddle strokes.

• Useful Accessories & Storage: The added workdeck (with USB), large hatch, deck rigging all add utility. Good for extended day-trips or light overnight gear.

• Versatility: Can be used for recreational paddling, light touring, fishing (especially the “Angler” version), photography or nature observation.

• Durability: Three-layer polyethylene hulls are robust, forgiving, and require less maintenance than composite kayaks.

Bottom Line

The Old Town Loon 126 is a premium step up in the recreational kayak category. It blends comfort, carrying capacity, durable build, and useful features. If you want a boat you don’t have to compromise much when going out all day, carrying gear, or bringing along extra load, this kayak makes a strong case.