Cobra and Ocean are two prominent recreation companies that specialize in producing sit-on-top style kayaks. Sit-on-top style kayaks are different from traditional sit-in kayaks in that they are non-confining, usually offer greater stability and can be used for a broader ranger of activities. However, they are not usually favored by serious riders for applications such as whitewater kayaking and stunt kayaking due to their open-hull design.
Both companies construct their kayaks with a polyethylene mold and offer a variety of styles to accommodate everything from kayak surfing along the ocean shores to kayak fishing in lakes and rivers. They both favor polyethylene as a construction material because it is lightweight, UV resistant, offers great buoyancy in the water and is durable and easy to repair if damaged. Plenty of accessories are offered by the two companies as well. Everything from seat backs and hatch kits to rudders and scuppers are available for those eager to customize their kayak. In fact, there are very few differences between the two companies. Both brands are recognized for their quality, but Ocean offers a greater number of models and more variety.
Background
The first Ocean brand kayaks were released in 1971 and featured a fiberglass, rather than the polyethylene, mold. Scuba diving was the main motivation for the first Ocean kayak as the sit-on-top style offered great stability when climbing in and out of the kayak and allowed riders to store gear while paddling to their scuba destination. While Cobra's first kayak did not arrive on the scene until the early 1990s, the company has also enjoyed more than 30 years of experience in polyethylene molding construction. Before moving on to kayaks, Cobra founder Warren Aitken produced polyethylene molded boards that were used for windsurfing.
Popular Cobra Models
The Marauder XF is Cobra's top-of-the-line fishing model and includes features such as rod holder mounts, a separate bait and gear recess, and customizable hatch configurations.
The Explorer model is great for someone planning on doing a bit of everything; it's versatile enough to hold fishing or other gear yet keeps a profile suitable for long-distance touring.
Scuba divers and fisherman alike will enjoy the storage capacity and stability of the Fish N' Dive model, while serious long distance paddlers will appreciate the quickness of the Expedition. Cobra also offers size-specific models too. Taller paddlers will fit well in the Navigator FX, while children and smaller adults will be comfortable in the Play or Escape models.
Popular Ocean Models
The Malibu Two is Ocean's most popular model, perhaps due to its ability to seat the whole family. The Malibu Two is considered a tandem but can fit two large adults and one smaller person in the middle, making it a great choice for family outings.
The Peekaboo is another tandem that features a viewing window in the hull that allows paddlers to check out the underwater scenery in clear water.
Ocean's Torque model is unique in that it is equipped with a Minn Kota trolling motor, making it a formidable choice for serious anglers.
The Mysto is a favorite among kayak surfers thanks to its sleek yet stable design, and the Scrambler 11 offers a versatile choice for those wanting a bit of everything.
Controversy
Cobra won an alleged patent infringement case initiated by Ocean after a two-year court struggle. Ocean claimed that Cobra's Tandem, Fish N' Dive and Triple models were in violation of patent rights concerning overlapping seating and foot-well arrangements. Cobra lost the initial trial and appealed the case to the federal courts. A three-judge panel heard the appeal and found that Cobra had, in fact, correctly interpreted the patent rights and was not at fault of patent infringement. While Cobra won the final trial, it was forced to redesign the models in question during the two-year period prior to the federal decision.
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