Submitted by: JeffN
11-02-2009
     I recommend the VASA kayak ergometer enthusiastically. The unit has a very realistic feel. The resistance unit was originally designed for elite swimmers, so it is not surprising that it replicates the progressive resistance of water so well. Resistance is adjustable, so it range from from the level of resistance you experience paddling a fast kayak at speed (I paddle a Van Dusen Mohican, which is very fast once up to speed) to paddling shallow water in a slow boat (good for transferring weight room strength to early season power). The unit is also extremely versatile.

In addition to the kayak mode, one can replicate canoe paddling (especially good if you buy a wall mount, which allows you to switch sides without worrying about a central support shaft getting in the way. The computer monitor is excellent, and calibrated to monitor kayak specific distances and speeds. The point that distinguishes the VASA unit from other top-level units is its versatility. The unit can also be used for swim training, and with the right options (ask the company about this when ordering) it can be used for cross-country ski double-pole training as well. Finally, Rob and Karen at VASA are fantastic- they really care about the needs of athletes, and want to do everything they can that helps the unit meet those needs.

In sum, the VASA trainer has a great water-like feel, it's very well made, and it's extremely versatile. It really is a great investment.
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: robertohess
08-27-2009
     I purchased the Vasa kayak paddling ergometer about 2 years ago and reviewed it 18 months ago for the first time. This is an update a year and a half later.

The ergometer, I am pleased to report, still works, feels and sounds exactly the same as on the first day. There is no noticeable wear and tear whatsoever. It's been inside my garage for all this time with no maintenance whatsoever. Dust, etc., seems to have no ill effects on the machine. Best of all, the Vasa ergometer has allowed me to train consistently year around and gradually increase my paddling range to the point where I am able to paddle about 20 miles - in a Scupper Pro sit-on-top kayak, that is, not a fast sea kayak.

Last summer I finally fulfilled my dream of paddling/sailing to and circumnavigating Catalina Island, which involves a 22-mile open water crossing. Since then, I have gone two more times, each time paddling longer distances. (see http://www.topkayaker.net/Articles/Destinations/CatalinaIsle.html)

I feel that without the Vasa kayak ergometer the crossings to Catalina Island may never have happened or would at least be much harder or less predictable in outcome. I don't even train more than once or twice a week, but I ALWAYS paddle at least once a week, rain or shine, sick or healthy. And when I do train, I can set the resistance of the machine to match the conditions (e.g., head winds) I will encounter in the open ocean.

All around, I feel that the Vasa kayak ergometer was one of the best investments I've ever made. As the saying goes, "You get what you pay for."
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: Glenn Leach
06-15-2009
     I have used our VASA Kayak Ergometer for the last 6 weeks and am truly impressed with how real it feels. I am sure it will allow me to keep my skills up during the winter. The quality of construction is unsurpassed and it is the best fitness investment I have made. We also use it for the swim mode which is awesome also. The staff at VASA are exemplary and were great to deal with. We are definitely very happy customers and will urge others to purchase one
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: richb
06-04-2009
     I have been using the Vasa Kayak Ergometer for 2 winters to replace paddling when the local waters freeze; I can say that it keeps me in good enough condition that I am able to get back to my fall best times in just a few short weeks. My son-in-law and I use the Vasa at least 3 or 4 times per week each and after 2 winters of use we have had no problems and there are so far no signs of wear.

This machine really gives a good workout and I never feel it lacking in any way. I always feel I am better conditioned than my usual competition in the early spring races. I would highly recommend the Vasa to anyone looking to maintain kayaking fitness or just wanting a good winter workout. The folks at Vasa are great to work with and sent me a better suited seat in the beginning when I felt the usual seat did not work for me.
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: Bill Burnett
06-03-2009
     Actions speak louder than words. That's always been my motto and I expect my equipment to do the same. But now I want to say a few words about the one equipment investment I made over a year ago that has turned out to be the best decision I have ever made to improve my paddling fitness. It's called the Vasa Kayak Ergometer, made in Vermont USA. Due to my life circumstances, i.e. busy schedule, winter freeze, etc, I decided to buy on based on a friend's recommendation.

When I first set it up and began paddling, I closed my eyes and it felt about as close to the resistance and feel of real paddling, minus the water splash sounds and the instability of a boat. I opened my eyes to view the electronic display, which really is a great power meter, and I got excited. Talk about motivational. Pretty soon, I was doing full on paddling workouts in my home, any time I wanted and in any kind of weather. Thanks to this incredible training tool, this spring paddling on the water I am stronger, faster and smoother than ever - all because I did not miss a single paddling workout from October until May.

Oh, and another thing - I got a chance to paddle on another kayak paddling machine - I think it was called stroke speed or something like that. I have to say it was good, but it does not come close to being as good my Vasa Kayak machine. Plus, I use mine to do a circuit of 10 exercises to strengthen my upper body and prevent shoulder injury, which gives more value to the device. The company offers a swimming option, so we are thinking of getting that for the kids, who just joined swim team.

If anyone out there is looking for a great training machine, I highly recommend the Vasa Kayak Ergometer.
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: Robert Hess
03-11-2008
     I purchased my Vasa Kayak Ergometer about 6 months ago:
The machine has exceeded my expectations. After 6 months of working out on the machine once or twice a week between my regular paddling session on the weekend, I am hooked. Not only has it increased my endurance, it also helps me to psychologically bridge that awful gap between weekends.

As the previous reviewer said, the stroke is surprisingly similar to the real thing, and with multiple settings, from very light resistance to a lot of resistance, I can simulate paddling in different types of conditions. The standard padded seat is very comfortable, and a new non-padded, but contoured seat is now available.

The whole unit is extremely sturdy, can easily be moved around on wheels below the main unit, and can also be used for swimming exercises (that's what the Vasa trainer was originally designed for), as well as for general strength and endurance exercises. Great versatility not shared by other kayak ergometers.

Perhaps best of all is the company itself. I met the owner, Rob Sleamaker, at a San Diego Swim Coach Convention, and I must say he's the nicest, most sincere person I have ever met in a business context. He listened very carefully to my specific training requirements and needs, and repeatedly assured me that I can return the machine within 90 days if I don't like it for any reason. The same goes for his front office - super nice, responsive, very good to deal with. No sales pitches, pressure, etc. Just straightforward information.

Whenever the paddling bug bites me midweek, I just jump on my machine now and go for a quick "paddle" in the garage - very therapeutic in more than one way.

In short: I can strongly recommend the Vasa Ergometer. It's not cheap, but it's worth every penny.
Rating: 10 of 10

Submitted by: Bobby Hayes
08-17-2007
     I tried out a KayakPro Speedstroke and found it pretty good, but held off buying one until I tried the new Vasa kayak paddling ergometer. Finally I got to test one locally and let me tell you, it is fantastic! Even better than the feeling I got with KaykPro.

The best part is I can easily switch from kayak paddling, to canoe paddling and even to swimming mode. Since I surf, paddle board, kayak and race outriggers & dragon boats, the versatility of the Vasa makes it 4 machines for the price of one. I love the range of resistance options to feel like fast water, suck water, or tough current. Plus, the display shows your watts and it can show you force for each side, right and left, which is so useful to me since I hurt my left shoulder and am still weak there.
Check it out: vasatrainer.com
Rating: 10 of 10

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