The Tempest 170 is a dependable 17‑foot touring kayak that’ll suit mid‑sized paddlers who want roomy comfort, steady tracking, and enough gear space for day trips or short overnights, and you’ll like its forgiving stability and adjustable seat and footbraces for long sessions. Pack a stern dry bag, pump, paddle float, and basic safety kit, practice re‑entry and bracing near shore, check hatch seals and rinse salt after use, and try it with an overnight load to confirm fit and handling—more specifics follow.
Some Key Points
- Comfortable, sit‑inside 17-foot touring kayak tuned for mid-sized paddlers and day-to-weekend trips.
- Stable, predictable tracking with a 22-inch beam, reliable downwind performance and efficient cruising speed.
- Roomy adjustable cockpit, supportive thigh braces, and spray-skirt compatible for extended comfort and control.
- Stern hatch plus cockpit storage suits small overnight loads; use bungees for paddle-float and pump stowage.
- Durable rotomolded hull needs routine salt rinse and hatch seal checks; expect cosmetic scuffs over time.
What the Tempest 170 Is and Who It’s Best For
If you’re looking for a dependable sit‑inside touring kayak that’s easy to learn on but still useful beyond your first season, the Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 fits that bill, offering a stable, 17‑foot hull that’s aimed at mid‑sized paddlers who want day trips or weekend excursions without fuss. You’ll find it’s tuned for beginner paddlers yet capable for coastal touring, so bring a basic safety kit, comfortable skirt or spray deck, and a small dry bag for snacks and layers, practice re‑entry and bracing close to shore, then push out when wind and confidence line up. Wilderness Systems also offers a range of kayaks and gear for paddling enthusiasts, making it easy to outfit trips with quality accessories.
Hull, Cockpit, and Comfort: Real-World Fit and Handling
When you climb into the Tempest 170 you’ll notice the cockpit’s roomy length and the hull’s purposeful balance right away, so take a moment to set the seat and footbraces to where your knees brush the coaming without locking your hips, because that little adjustment makes steering, bracing, and long paddling sessions a lot more comfortable. You’ll want to check seat ergonomics first, tweak thigh braces to feel contact without pain, and test footpegs adjustability so your legs support strokes, and if you plan rougher water, make sure spray skirt compatibility is solid, practice exits, and tweak fit. This kayak pairs well with quality accessories for sea adventures, including sea eagle gear that enhance safety and comfort on the water.
Performance on the Water: Tracking, Speed, Stability, and Maneuverability
Because the Tempest 170 balances a relatively narrow 22-inch beam with a long, slender 17-foot hull, you'll notice it's built to track well downwind and hold a straight line on flatter water, so sit with good posture, settle into the seat, and watch how it responds before you push harder. You'll feel strong tracking efficiency when you set a steady stroke, and in a speed comparison with similar day-tourers it cruises confidently, not blisteringly fast but efficient for distance. Stability is predictable—edge it for turns, brace when wind kicks up—and practice sweep strokes to steer with minimal effort. Wilderness Systems also outfits many of their kayaks with comfortable outfitting and durable materials for extended trips, making them a solid choice for advanced kayakers.
Gear, Storage, Build Quality, and Maintenance Needs
As you get the Tempest 170 ready for a day or a weekend trip, think about kit layout and protection first, because a good setup keeps you comfortable and keeps gear dry. Stow the dry bag in the stern hatch, keep snacks and repair bits reachable in the cockpit, and use bungees for a paddle float and pump, because smart storage solutions cut hassle. The rotomolded polyethylene hull is tough, so inspect scuffs but don't panic, and follow simple gear maintenance like rinsing salt, checking hatch seals, greasing foot brace tracks, and tightening deck fittings, so the boat stays ready for freedom. Lifetime carries complementary gear and accessories that pair well with touring kayaks like the Tempest 170, including storage solutions and safety items kayaks and other products.
Verdict and Buying Advice: Pros, Cons, and Who Should Choose This Kayak
If you're weighing the Tempest 170 against other day- and weekend-tour boats, think about what matters most to you—stability, tracking, and gear space—and how you'll use it, because this kayak gives a comfortable, confidence-building ride for mid-sized paddlers while still offering reasonable speed and storage for overnight kit. You'll like it if you want freedom on varied water, predictable handling, and a forgiving cockpit, but consider budget alternatives if price or weight is a concern, and expect decent resale value thanks to the brand. Try one, check fit, pack an overnight load, and paddle diverse conditions before buying. For outfitting and accessories consider retailers that specialize in kayaks and related gear like reel yaks.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Tempest 170 Come With a Paddle or Rudder Included?
No, it doesn't include a paddle or rudder, so you’ll want to bring your own paddle and learn basic paddle maintenance, and if you add a rudder kit practice rudder adjustment before launch, testing responsiveness in calm water. Pick a touring paddle that matches your height and stroke, carry a simple repair kit and spare parts, and spend time dialing in foot braces and rudder trim, so you can confidently head out and explore.
Is Assembly or Setup Required Out of the Box?
No heavy assembly’s required, but you’ll need a few initial adjustment and safety checks before you paddle. Sit in the cockpit, tweak the seat and footbrace for comfort and control, inspect hatch seals and bungee rigging, and tighten any loose fittings you spot, then fit a paddle leash and PFD. Carry basic tools, a pump, and a bilge sponge, and do a quick float test to confirm balance and watertightness.
Can I Transport It on a Rooftop Kayak Carrier?
Yes, you can, but secure it right: use a proper roof rack rated for kayaks, add foam blocks under the hull for padding, run bow/stern lines to the vehicle for extra security, and use strong tie downs over the kayak, cinched snug but not over-tightened. Check fit — 17 ft will overhang — and carry a flag if needed, inspect straps before every trip, and retighten after driving a few miles.
Is There a Replacement Seat or Accessory Compatibility List?
Yes — you can upgrade the seat and check accessory compatibility, and you’ll want to start by verifying the Tempest 170’s cockpit dimensions, mounting points, and Wilderness Systems’ OEM parts, since seat upgrades, like aftermarket cushions or supportive touring seats, often use the same anchors, and accessory compatibility with thigh braces, footpegs, and scupper fittings depends on those fittings; call the dealer, measure the cockpit, and bring photos before ordering.
What Colors Besides Breeze Blue Are Available?
Besides Breeze Blue, you’ll often find the Tempest 170 in navy blue and sometimes a lime green-ish option, though color runs vary by retailer and model year, so check current stock. If you want freedom on the water, pick a color you’ll see from shore, confirm warranty and return policy, and ask the dealer about limited runs or special editions, then reserve or order, and plan what gear you’ll carry first.
