Reviews & Ratings for Wenonah Champlain Kevlar Flex-Core Canoe - 18 ft — 1 review — Page 1

I recently purchased a Wenonah Champlain at a canoe dealer in Ely Minnesota. I tested multiple models and did heads up comparison of the Champlain with the Minnesota II and the Northstar Northwind 18. I took each canoe out for an hour of paddling on Lake Shagawa. I was solo paddling with a 100 lb weight in the front to simulate a second paddler. The Champlain performed the best for both initial stability and stability when slightly tipped. I found it also kept a straight line easily even when paddling on one side, but could also turn easily when I chose to turn. By comparison the Minnesota II and the Northstar took a lot more effort to keep going straight as a solo paddler. I am a 240 pound man and this canoe had the most comfortable rear seat with my hips sitting comfortably right below the gunnel versus above it in the other two. I chose the Champlain and took one home the same day and it was the easiest choice I ever made. I plan to use it for primarily Minnesota lakes but also some river canoeing.