Competitively priced high quality hybrid folding kayaks. Made by the specialist builders with years of experience in developing and producing white water catarafts, inflatable and folding kayaks, using the tough grade PVC and high quality valves - the hybrid kayak / canoes are robustly built to last.

A cross between a folding kayak together with some elements as used in inflatable kayaks, the NERIS SMART Series hybrid boats has a frame comprising of an aluminum ladder like keel and tubular cross ribs, fitting into a one piece PVC skin that has inflatable side walls (main tubes / sponsons). The hull design of the skin is the same as in traditional folding kayaks - with no inflatable elements in the floor as is common in inflatable kayaks. The side inflatable elements (sponsons) replaces the usual longitudinal side frame pieces as well as the cockpit coaming pieces as used in folding kayaks. In simple terms, it is a folding kayak with oversized bow-to-stern sponsons which is 100% integrated and forms part of the main skin. This hybrid boat paddles faster than typical inflatable kayaks, and is more stable than folding kayaks. Also the boats are lighter than both inflatable and folding kayaks of the same length - there is less framework and less PVC material.

The NERIS SMART range of hybrid folding kayaks / canoes are also designed to be multi-use and multi-role.

In multi-role - The SMART family optionally has two different seating setups available - choose the standard inflatable floor seats to use the boat as a kayak when using double bladed paddles, or choose to add optional raised bench seats and fittings to use the boat as a canoe when using single bladed paddles (optional extra cost). It is possible to change the seat type whilst on the water. EG paddle out to a fishing site as a kayak, then switch to sitting on bench seats whilst fishing or having a picnic on the water!

In multi-use - the double seater SMART-2 and the SMART PRO, has two different seating position set-ups - use the boat as a double (tandem) or occasionally as a single (solo) seater kayak. The single seater SMART PRO S can optionally have a 2nd seat to use as a short double kayak.

The reduction in the number of frame pieces dramatically shortens the average assembly time of 20 minutes that is typical of most folding kayaks made around the world, down to an average of 5-15 minutes with the SMART kayak / canoe. As there is no floor to inflate, the assembly time is even quicker than inflatable kayaks of the same length. The skins are made in the same way as in the Neris folding kayaks and have the usual thick rubber keel strips matching the positions of the longitudinal keelsons (keel board frame).
The ease of assembly can be seen in this "guide" here

Key safety feature. Should one or both of the main air chambers (sponsons) on a SMART kayak deflate due to punctures or leak whilst out paddling, the boat's side walls which are held in place by the cross ribs will still keep the PVC fabric upright. This presents the ability to be able to safely paddle back to shore without any water ingress at all, unlike most inflatable kayaks which normally will get swamped (you will need to get out to save any packed kit) and with some brands / models, the boat will completely collapse.

Sailing - optional. The NERIS Genaker A-framed downwind sail rig - the same rig made for the NERIS folding kayaks, can be used with the SMART PRO and SMART double / triple seater kayaks. This sail rig simply folds flat on the front deck when there is no wind - the base of the rig has a hinge like fitting that attaches to the deck, so all that is needed to hoist the mast up, is to pull one of the mast stays whilst still remaining seated. If you are keen to try sailing, request that the optional mast fittings be added to the kayak when ordering the boat.

Colour options. There are 3 main areas on the SMART skin - the hull, the main side inflation chambers (sponsons) and the bow / stern triangular decks, each of which can be of a specific colour. See 'Colour Combinations' below

Some kayak models have 2 different variant spray decks available - EG to use the kayak as a single or as a double. All spray decks come with separate waist skirt/s and cockpit cover/s. Cockpit covers are used to close off the cockpits when storing or camping overnight etc.

The "ST" kayaks are specially custom produced upgraded variants of the standard SMART PRO / SMART-3.

SMART PRO ST - this is an upgraded toughened variant of the Neris SMART PRO intended for military / security / rescue related roles. Specific frame members have been strengthened as well as the hull having extra keel strips. The frame parts and rudder is baked painted Matt black. The boats come complete with extra D-ring fittings intended for different purposes - strengthened towing rings to tow other kayaks and to be towed, and securing of stowage platforms on the front, centre and rear decks, including an accessory bridge (for compass, GPS etc). Bow to stern anti-slip floorboards (not shown). Spray deck is securely attached to the decks with zippers and Velcro. Safety air pressure release valves fitted. Footrest for front paddler. Seats have HD closed cell foam pads for the bottom, with inflatable backrests.
A range of custom accessories are available, ranging from platforms with D-rings designed to hold heavy kit, to waterproof conical shaped all black dry bags (fits in internal bow and stern sections, and dufflelbags that fits inside the cockpit behind the front paddler. PVC coated Danforth anchors with PVC storage bags that strap anywhere along the floor. High speed dual actual pumps.
Any specific custom requests to meet certain operational needs can be accommodated. EG scuba divers

SMART-3 ST - this is an upgraded toughened variant of the Neris SMART-3 intended for rapid response emergency rescue teams - EG environmental disasters. Seating or floor space can accommodate up to 6 (mix of adults / children) or the large central cockpit section can be utilized to carry emergency supplies / equipment. Any custom modifications / fittings / accessories etc can be accommodated to meet operational needs.
In conjunction with BORIKA, the boat can be fitted with universal mounts to provide further functionality.

This hybrid folding kayak offers more robustness, convenience,and speed compared to conventional inflatable and folding kayaks The packed kayak bags can be stored in rapid response vehicles and be deployed within 5-10 minutes.

SMART ST Range product details
Kayak Price List