The story behind the new boat
Parallel to the development of the Waka Stokes, Kenny Mutton – the mastermind behind the Waka fleet – sketched out the first designs for the Waka Skuxx . It was intended to be a shorter river runner, just long enough to handle serious whitewater. Whenever we discussed the Skuxx, it was often referred to as the perfect "Zambezi boat," whose playful characteristics would make paddling easier and smaller rivers more engaging. After some consultation with the Waka team, the decision was made to focus on completing the Waka Stokes first and give the Waka Skuxx and Waka Skuxx Deluxe some more time. Over the past two years, the design has been intensively refined and perfected. Finally, in mid-February 2025, the time had come! During Kenny's recent visit to Europe, we not only went skiing but also got our hands on the first kayaks fresh off the rotary mold and put them to the test.
Key data
| Model | Waka Skuxx | Waka Skuxx Deluxe |
| Paddler weight: | 50 – 90kg | 60 - 120kg |
| length | 245cm | 245cm |
| volume | approx. 265l | approx. 275l |
| Weight | approx. 20kg | approx. 20kg |
| Colors | purple | red | blue | yellow | fandango | purple | red | blue | yellow | fandango |
Test subjects
Bernie Steidl, 173cm, 73kg
Vali Stern, 177cm, 85kg
Driving behavior in whitewater
Developing a short river runner that performs well even in challenging whitewater is arguably one of the greatest challenges a boat designer can face. At 245cm in length, the Skuxx and Skuxx Deluxe fall squarely into this category. And to be honest, we were skeptical whether these two boats would still glide smoothly and be fun for "regular paddling." Fortunately, our first test run dispelled our doubts. In both boats, you get the familiar "Waka feeling." They are very floaty, skip well, and allow for playful and agile paddling.
Surfing characteristics
The biggest difference between other half-slice kayaks and the Skuxx and Skuxx Deluxe will probably be noticeable when surfing. Thanks to the design of the hull, both boats surf very fast, spin effortlessly, and practically "stick" to the wave. Another point we liked: the shorter length allows you to surf shorter and steeper waves effectively without constantly having to tip your nose in. And let's be honest: more than 95% of the waves in the Alps fall into this category...
Undercut
Finally, a river runner that can be balanced on its tail during a Stern Squirt! Thanks to its shorter tail, the Waka Skuxx is also very easy for lighter paddlers to balance on its tail when edging. To achieve similar results with the Skuxx Deluxe, you need to weigh more than 80 kg.
Differences between Skuxx and Skuxx Deluxe
Although the two kayaks appear almost identical at first glance, the Waka Skuxx Deluxe's extra 10 liters of volume in the stern are noticeable. This makes the Skuxx Deluxe appealing to heavier paddlers weighing over 90 kg. The main idea behind this design, however, is that this extra volume provides more air when surfing and performing downriver freestyle moves (such as kickflips, cobra flips, or freewheels). So, if you have to choose between the two boats, you should consider your priorities and where you intend to use it. For a trip to the Zambezi, I (173 cm, 73 kg) would definitely take the Skuxx Deluxe. For most Alpine rivers and trips to Norway, however, the regular Skuxx will be going on the roof of my car.
Conclusion
We are thrilled and convinced that Waka Kayaks has hit the jackpot with the Waka Skuxx and Waka Skuxx Deluxe. These two new designs are incredibly fun and offer you unprecedented opportunities to enjoy yourself on the world's rivers.
Test now
Want to see for yourself and test one of the boats? Then send us an email and pick up your test boat from us. With the current temperatures, it's already very pleasant on the Imster Gorge or in Lofer :-).