REASONS TO BUY
Superior glide performance
Lightweight
Large storage capacity
Ergonomic design
REASONS TO AVOID
Higher price point compared to entry-level kayaks
Delta Kayaks Delta 12.10 Review
A high-performing recreational kayak offering an exceptional blend of stability, speed and comfort
Despite being a bit narrower than some of the kayaks we tested, the Delta still performed on par in terms of stability.
Credit: Sara James
RELATED: Best Kayaks of 2024
Our Verdict
For Delta 12.10 is a storage trojan swallowing more gear than you would expect in its slender profile. It is a versatile recreational kayak that bridges the gap between beginner-friendly stability and performance-oriented features. Known for its sleek design and high-quality construction, this kayak is suitable for paddlers looking to enjoy both relaxed outings and more dynamic water conditions. Its lightweight yet durable build, combined with ample storage and comfort features, makes it a top choice for those who want a reliable and enjoyable kayaking experience.
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 This Product
Delta Kayaks Delta 12.10 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  Best Overall Kayak | Best Sit-on-Top Kayak |  Great Value for a Sit-on-Top Model | Best Bang for the Buck | |
| Price | $1,495 List Check Price at REI | $1,219 at REI Compare at 2 sellers | $1,119 at REI Compare at 2 sellers | $800 List | $550 List $405.79 at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | A top choice for paddlers seeking premium performance and comfort but don’t want to carry a heavy kayak | This sit-inside kayak delivers comfort, storage, and stability while maintaining maneuverability and having plenty of storage to suit | Whether fishing, swimming, taking photos, or just exploring your favorite body of water, this kayak won’t let you down | If you are looking for a fun and safe kayak that the whole family will enjoy, then this boat offers a great bang for your buck | An entry-level recreational kayak that can keep you and your bank balance afloat |
| Rating Categories | Delta Kayaks Delta... | Wilderness Systems... | Wilderness Systems... | Ocean Kayak Malibu... | Pelican Argo 100X EXO |
| Glide and Tracking (30%) | |||||
| Stability (20%) | |||||
| Maneuverability (15%) | |||||
| Ease of Transport (15%) | |||||
| Comfort (10%) | |||||
| Construction Quality (10%) | |||||
| Specs | Delta Kayaks Delta... | Wilderness Systems... | Wilderness Systems... | Ocean Kayak Malibu... | Pelican Argo 100X EXO |
| Measured Length | 12.83' | 12.17' | 10.50' | 11.42' | 10.00' |
| Measured Width | 25.0" | 29.0" | 32.0" | 32.0" | 28.0" |
| Measured Weight | 42 lb | 49 lb | 57 lb | 59 lb | 38 lb |
| Measured Height | 13.5" | 14.0" | 15.3" | 12.0" | 14.0" |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lb | 325 lb | 325 lb | 360 lb | 275 lb |
| Material/Construction | Thermoformed ABS base layer with Solarkote exterior | Polyethylene | Polyethylene | Singler layer polyethylene | Polyethylene |
| Features | Adjustable foot pegs, adustable seat position, adjustable padded backrest and seat cushion, two large dry hatches with secure closure, multiple attachment points, carry handles | Rigid handles, replaceable skid plate, Orbix hatch with sealed bulkhead, thigh pads, XL foot braces, SlideTrax and 2 mounting platforms, removable dry box, 2 cup holders, lithium battery recess (battery not included), phase 3 AirPro seating system | Quick-park paddle holder, rigid carry handles, SlideTrax accessory rails, magnetic water-bottle strap system, removable DryTec dry box, sectioned storage tray, phase 3 AirPro seating system, dog-friendly deck | Tri-form hull with an integral keel and sponsons, AirGo molded in seat and seat pad with adjustable AirComfort backrest, molded-in foot wells and calf rest, paddle holders, side/stern/bow carrying handles, molded-in oversized bow and stern tank wells with bungees, splash resistent QuickStash dry hatch, 2 molded in fishing rod holders, 3 water bottle holder, replaceable skid plate | Small front storage hatch, rear well with removable ExoChill 17-liter storage compartment, bottle holders, padded backrest with seat cushion, molded footrests |
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Our Analysis and Test Results
The Delta 12.10 kayak is 12 feet 10 inches long and weighs a mere 41 lbs. At its widest points, it is 25 inches, and at its deepest, it has a depth of 13.5 inches. This kayak is an overnight camper's dream: a 1.8 gal day hatch, 12.1 gal bow storage, and 30.0 gal in the stern. This kayak is designed for a maximum capacity of 300 lbs.
Performance Comparison
The Delta kayak is a pleasure to paddle with smooth lines and a well balanced hull.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Glide and Tracking
The Delta 12.10 shines in its speed capabilities for a recreational kayak. The sleek, V-shaped hull reduces water resistance, allowing for more efficient paddling. This kayak can cover more distance with less effort, making it ideal for day trips and exploring larger bodies of water.
This kayak excels at glide and tracking, delivering a smooth and effortless ride.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Its v-shaped hull, pronounced chine, and moderate rocker offer paddlers a smooth transition to edge and impressive tracking. We did not have a problem keeping this 12.10 in a straight line. However, the Delta 14, 15, and 17 all come with a foot-controllable skeg system to further assist you in keeping this kayak going exactly where you want it.
With our without the skeg, paddlers did not have a problem keeping the Delta kayaks in a straight line
Credit: Sara James
Stability
The Delta 12.10 provides an excellent balance of stability and agility. The multi-chine hull design ensures a stable platform for beginners while allowing more experienced paddlers to confidently navigate choppy waters. This stability makes it suitable for a range of water conditions, from calm lakes to moderate coastal waters.
Even in gently moving current, testers didn't struggle to control this kayak.
Credit: Sara James
Maneuverability
Despite being 12 feet 10 inches in length, the Delta 12.10 offers superior maneuverability. Its slightly longer length compared to typical recreational kayaks enhances its ability to track straight while still being responsive to paddling inputs. The kayak's design allows for smooth and easy turns, making it a joy to handle on various water bodies.
Due to the length of this kayak, it does take a bit more effort to stop and turn it.
Credit: Sara James
This kayak is designed to accommodate a kayak spray skirt if you wish. Those with the skills will, therefore, be able to perform an Eskimo roll in this kayak, a great tool for maneuvering in the most dynamic of environments.
The Delta kayak is easy to transfer from edge to edge, offering superior control and maneuverability
Credit: Sara James
Ease of Transport
Despite being 2 feet longer than some of the kayaks we tested, the Delta still weighed in as one of our lightest kayaks overall.
The Delta kayak is considerably lighter than most the other kayaks we tested. This makes emptying water out and transporting this kayak much easier.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
In addition, the rounded corners help make shouldering this kayak a breeze. If you do have a friend around, the padded side grip handles make easy work of carrying the Delta kayak as a two-some.
Thanks to the lightweight construction, shouldering this kayak isn't too difficult.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
This kayak isn't fragile, however we also didn't want to damage the hull strapping it down to flat roof racks. A special cradle is better suited to cater to the v-shaped hull. Given the price of this kayak, we felt it was well worth purchasing this extra accessory.
Invseting in the right roof rack set up for this kayak is well worth it for the extra ease, security, and protection provided.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Delta 12.10. The adjustable and ergonomically designed seat provides excellent support for long paddles and offers more padding than the basic kayaks we tested. The adjustable backrest and thigh braces ensure a custom fit. The 17″ x 32″ spacious cockpit accommodates paddlers of different sizes and enhances ease of entry and exit.
The adjustable seat and back band are padded, adding an extra layer of comfort
Credit: Sara James
The designers put some extra thought into the user's comfort, including an adjustable seat and foot pegs. Thanks to the accessibility of their design, once you learn the mechanism, you can adjust these foot pegs from the comfort of your seat. Helpful if you were to want extra leg room while out on your journey.
The foot pegs are easy to adjust, allowing you to pick how far forward these supports sit.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Construction Quality
Constructed from Delta's proprietary Thermoformed ABS, the Delta 12.10 is both lightweight and durable. These high-quality materials offer excellent impact resistance and UV protection, ensuring the kayak remains in top condition even with frequent use. The high-gloss finish is both aesthetically pleasing and scratch-resistant.
Everything on the Delta feels well made, even down to the outrigging system that you can use to stash your essential items on the outside of your kayak.
Credit: Sara James
The press lock hatch system keeps the bulkheads sealed from water, enabling you to keep your belongings dry, even if the kayak capsizes. Testers loved the design of the day pod on the front deck of the kayak, offering accessible dry storage, even while out on the water. This is perfectly sized to fit a phone, small camera, or snack bar.
The front and rear compartments offer accessible spacious dry storage for your belongings, great for an overnight camping trip
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The contour seat system is simple to adjust and avoids small, fiddly components. By pushing in the blue button, you can easily adjust your seat position to fine-tune the kayak's trim depending on your leg length, paddling style, and the weight distribution of your gear. We were not worried about breaking these systems and are confident they will stand the test of time.
The seat is adjustable enabling you to finely trim your kayak balance.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Should You Buy the Delta Kayak 12.0 ?
The Delta Kayaks 12.10 is an exceptional light touring kayak that offers a perfect blend of stability, speed, and comfort. Its standout storage solutions make it perfect for anyone wanting to camp from their kayak. In addition, the high-quality construction and thoughtful design features make it a prime choice for paddlers seeking versatility and performance. While it comes at a higher price point, the investment is justified by its durability and enhanced paddling experience. Whether you're exploring serene lakes or tackling more dynamic waters, the Delta 12.10 is a reliable and enjoyable companion on the water. Delta Kayaks also manufactures more basic adventure rec models, such as the 12 AR model, as well as more advanced touring and performance models like the Traverse 17.5.
Delta kayaks are available in longer models, such as the 15GT, which has additional storage capacity and sports a skeg for extra tracking support
Credit: Sara James
What Other Kayaks Should You Consider?
If you are looking for a slightly more robust kayak that can handle greater extremes (such as rocky conditions), you may want to consider the Dagger Stratos 12.5 S. Those who are looking to save more money and are willing to paddle a lower-performance kayak should check out the Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 or Old Town Vapor 10, which offer reduced performance and a reduced price.
—
Sara James
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