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Anton Willis' Oru Folding Kayak

By Rain Noe - October 2, 2012

in Materials | Object Culture

Back in May, Maker Faire creator Dale Dougherty made a brief reference to an Anton Willis project in an article he wrote for us, "A New Wave of Hardware Innovation." Now we've got the full skinny: Willis, a designer based in San-Francisco, is shoring up final production for his folding kayak.

Called the Oru, Willis' design is a great example of the intelligent use of humble materials. It's made from corrugated plastic—think of those folded bins the U.S. Postal Service uses—and in its folded state, looks like the large portfolios you see people carrying around on art school campuses. But after five minutes of assembly, you've got a 12-foot-long, watertight craft waiting for you to break out the paddle.

The innovative design means you can hike out to remote regions, no car necessary, to get your kayak on. It's expected to retail for a manageable $500.

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Nigel Brock

12 years ago

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This Kayak design is extraordinary. I have just bought a double folding sea kayak (5 meter) with sail and it is massive when folded (3 bags). It takes ages to construct, about half an hour or more, for a quick paddle it's too much. This design is beautiful in it's efficiency. It could do with a tracking fin or a steering rudder. And perhaps something like a PVC flap with velcro to cover the join, or even a zip to stop the water on the top. Perhaps you could offer "extras" to the basic model. That's what the people I bought from did.
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Stella

12 years ago

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This is such a wonderful idea! With most snow surf and water sports the equipment involved is often hefty and cumbersome; I love kayaking and would definitely be interested in purchasing one of these for a holiday where I can pack light!
Now to find a fold away ski-set...
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Will

12 years ago

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I love this idea and have been waiting for something like this for a while. How is the durability and longevity of something like this. I would love something like this to take with me to the coast
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enrique ruiz

12 years ago

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The Kayak is marvellous as many other things you advertise ... any ideas on when is it going to be available on the market and what the price tag is going to be?
I'd appreciate if you could keep me posted on the new designs!
Thanks for your site! ...

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