The Origami Paddler is a folding paddle board designed to combine the stability of a solid board with easier transport and storage. Back in May, we took a look at the prototype, and now the design has been refined and it's all ready for market.
The Origami Paddler gives paddle boarders a solution that's easier to transport than a rigid board and more stable and quicker on the water than an inflatable. It has two hinged folds that break it down into thirds for transport and storage. Assuming it performs as advertised on the water, it should be a good solution for those that want to get a rigid paddle board to water without having to deal with racks, straps and trailers.
One update since the last time we covered the board is that the retail version has been built to hold a paddle. The paddle breaks down and secures in grooves on top of the kayak, and the whole package folds up so it can be carried to and from the water.
The Origami Paddler is available at origamipaddler.com for US$1,200. Two three-piece paddle models designed to fit inside the board will be added to the website in the near future. The company is also working on getting the board into the hands of distributors in the U.S. and Europe.