Kokopelli Recon Self-Bailing Packraft - Class IV Whitewater
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Kokopelli Recon Self-Bailing Packraft
Description
The Kokopelli Recon Self-Bailing is the original road-to-river packraft, built tough enough to handle everything from after-work laps to multi-day Class IV expeditions. Constructed from commercial-grade 1,000d reinforced PVC, this boat is engineered for paddlers who demand ultimate durability without sacrificing packability. The self-bailing design automatically drains water from the boat through a combination of an inflatable floor and strategically placed drain holes, keeping you riding high and in control. Because PVC can be inflated to higher pressures than traditional TPU packrafts, the Recon stays rigid and responsive even when plugging bigger river features. At under 18 lbs, it packs down small enough to carry in a backpack and expands into a fully capable whitewater raft wherever the water takes you. Whether you're running technical creeks, floating lazy stretches with friends, or loading up for a backcountry multi-day, the Recon Self-Bailing is built to go the distance.
Key Features
- 1,000d Reinforced PVC Construction: Commercial-grade sidewalls and floor resist abrasion, punctures, and UV degradation for years of hard use.
- Self-Bailing Design: Inflatable floor with drain holes automatically expels water, reducing weight, simplifying setup, and speeding self-rescue compared to a spraydecked packraft.
- Class I-IV Water Rating: Capable of handling serious whitewater while remaining accessible for beginners on calm water.
- Leafield D7 Valves: Commercial raft-grade valves on both the pontoon and seat chambers for fast, reliable inflation and deflation.
- Catamaran-Style Hull: Reinforced PVC floor attaches inside and slightly above the pontoons, creating a concave hull for exceptional primary stability and maneuverability in rough water.
- 300 lb Weight Capacity: Handles a paddler plus gear for loaded expedition use.
- Lightweight and Packable: Weighs 15.9 lb (7.2 kg) and packs down to 22 x 14 in (56 x 36 cm) for true backpack portability.
- Stainless Steel D-Rings: 6 total (4 bow, 2 stern) for attaching thigh straps, bow bags, and other rafting accessories.
- Thigh-Strap Compatible: Add the optional Pro 3-Point Thigh-Strap Set for enhanced control in technical whitewater.
- Optional TiZip Zipper: Adds waterproof entry to store over 100 liters of gear inside the air chamber - ideal for multi-day trips.
- Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty (Boat): Kokopelli stands behind the Recon with a lifetime warranty on the boat itself.
TiZip Zipper Option & Which to Choose
- No TiZip: The standard configuration - lighter and simpler, ideal for day trips, after-work laps, and paddlers who don't need to stow gear inside the air chambers. This is the best choice for most recreational and whitewater day-use paddlers.
- Yes TiZip (+$150): Adds a 21 in (53 cm) waterproof TiZip zipper that allows you to store over 100 liters of gear inside the packraft's air chamber. Perfect for multi-day backcountry trips where you need to keep critical gear dry and accessible. Comes with TiZip Zipper Lubricant and a 1-year zipper warranty.
Shipping
Ships free! Please email us at service@omahasportsandgames.com for a delivery ETA or to confirm shipping details.
What's Included
- 1x Recon Self-Bailing Packraft
- 1x Nano Barrel Pump
- 1x Compression Strap Set
- 1x EVA Backband
- 1x Inflatable Floor with Integrated Seat
- 1x Repair Kit with Glue
- 1x TiZip Zipper Lubricant (included with TiZip-equipped packrafts only)
Note: Thigh-Strap Set is an additional accessory and is NOT included.
Why You'll Love It
The Recon Self-Bailing has earned its reputation as a go-anywhere, do-anything packraft trusted by adventurers who don't believe in gear that holds them back. Its commercial-grade PVC construction is the same material found in professional river rafts, meaning you can bash it against rocks, drag it over gravel bars, and push it through Class IV rapids without breaking a sweat. The self-bailing system is a genuine game-changer for whitewater - less time bailing, more time paddling, and faster recovery when things get rowdy. Owners rave about taking it on everything from lazy family floats to gnarly technical creek runs, and the option to add a TiZip zipper transforms it into a legitimate multi-day expedition vessel. Whether you're a seasoned paddler looking for a compact whitewater weapon or an adventurer ready to access rivers that no kayak could ever reach, the Recon delivers performance and peace of mind in a package that fits in your backpack.
Product Specifications
View Product Specs
| Series | Whitewater Series |
|---|---|
| Type | Self-Bailing |
| Material (Sidewall) | 1,000d Reinforced PVC |
| Material (Floor) | 1,000d Reinforced PVC |
| Water Rating | Class I - IV |
| Chambers | 2 (Main Pontoon + Inflatable Floor with Integrated Seat) |
| Valve (Pontoon) | Leafield D7 |
| Valve (Seat) | Leafield D7 |
| PSI (Pontoon) | 1.0 - 3.0 |
| PSI (Seat) | 1.0 |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lb (136 kg) |
| Weight (Boat) | 15.9 lb (7.2 kg) |
| Weight (Boat + Key Accessories) | 17.9 lb (8.1 kg) |
| Weight (Boat + All Accessories) | 19.9 lb (9.0 kg) |
| Outer Length | 90 in (229 cm) |
| Outer Width | 37 in (94 cm) |
| Inner Length | 57 in (145 cm) |
| Inner Width | 16 in (41 cm) |
| Packed Size (Rolled) | 22 x 14 in (56 x 36 cm) |
| TiZip Zipper Length (optional) | 21 in (53 cm) |
| D-Ring Material | Stainless Steel - 1 in (2.5 cm) |
| D-Ring Count | 6 Total (4 Bow + 2 Stern) |
| Sprayskirt Compatible | No |
| Thigh-Strap Compatible | Yes |
| E-Power Compatible | No |
| Removable Tracking Fin Compatible | No |
| Warranty (Boat) | Manufacturer Lifetime |
| Warranty (TiZip Zipper) | 1 Year |
FAQ
What is a self-bailing packraft and how does it work?
A self-bailing packraft uses an inflatable floor suspended slightly above the main pontoons, combined with drain holes in the hull. When water enters the boat, it flows through these drain holes and out of the raft automatically - so you spend less time bailing and more time paddling. This design also makes self-rescue faster and simplifies setup compared to a spraydecked packraft.
Is the TiZip zipper worth the upgrade?
If you plan to do multi-day trips, the TiZip zipper is highly recommended. It gives you waterproof access to over 100 liters of storage inside the air chamber of the packraft, keeping your gear dry and secure without needing extra dry bags strapped to the outside. For day trips and casual use, the standard no-TiZip version is lighter and equally capable on the water.
Do thigh straps come included with the Recon Self-Bailing?
No - the Thigh-Strap Set is an additional accessory sold separately and is NOT included with the packraft. However, the Recon Self-Bailing is thigh-strap compatible, and adding them is highly recommended for more technical whitewater where enhanced boat control makes a big difference.
How does the Recon handle compared to a traditional kayak on Class III-IV water?
The Recon's reinforced PVC construction allows it to be inflated to higher pressures than TPU packrafts, making it noticeably stiffer and more responsive in big water. The catamaran-style hull provides strong primary stability, and many paddlers find it handles Class III-IV rapids confidently. That said, paddling technique and experience still matter - thigh straps are recommended for anything technical.
Can I bring a dog or extra cargo like a cooler on the Recon?
Yes! The Recon's open self-bailing design gives you more usable space than a spraydecked model. Dogs can ride along comfortably - just keep it to Class II or lower when paddling with a pup. Smaller soft coolers (around 30L) can be strapped to the bow using the D-rings. The 300 lb weight capacity gives you plenty of room for a paddler plus gear and furry co-pilots.
What is the packed size and how does it ship?
When rolled and compressed, the Recon Self-Bailing packs down to 22 x 14 in (56 x 36 cm) - small enough to fit in a large backpack or duffel. It ships deflated and rolled, so it arrives in a standard parcel rather than on a freight pallet. Contact us at service@omahasportsandgames.com if you have specific shipping questions.
Thank you for trusting us with your order! This product is shipped directly from the manufacturing warehouse to get to customers all over the U.S. as soon as possible!
While many of our products are prepared and shipped out within 48 hours, some of our items are built to order or require custom pieces that could take 2-6 weeks to prepare before shipping! Please contact us at 888-884-2234 for a delivery ETA if you have a strict timeline.
Thanks!
Omaha Sports & Games Team
Returns & Refunds Policy
Return Policy
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. To start a return, you can contact us at service@omahasportsandgames.com.
If your return request is accepted, it will be up to you as the buyer to return the item in its original packaging, unworn and unused. You as the buyer will be responsible for paying the return shipping. We may be able to assist you in scheduling a pickup for return but the payment will still be your responsibility. You can always contact us for any return question at service@omahasportsandgames.com.
All products are subject to a minimum 15% restocking fee based on the quality of the returned product and packaging.
Items opened, tested, used, or any other non-new condition may be eligible for return based on the manufacturer's return policy.
Shipping Damages and Issues
You must inspect your order upon reception and refuse delivery if you see damage. DO NOT sign for delivery if there is apparent damage to the product. If you sign for the delivery and later claim shipping damage, there is very little we can do to help.
If your order does not require signing at delivery and is instead just dropped off at doorstep with damage, contact us immediately with photos of the damaged boxes.
If your item(s) is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, contact us immediately so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, such as custom products, special orders or personalized items. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items, gift cards, or multiple product bundle discounts.