All persons using this kayak must read, understand and follow
all instructions. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or
death. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference and
provide it to anyone using this kayak.
US PATENT NO. 8,316,788
OTHER PATENTS PENDING
Welcome to the Oru Kayak community!
We’re a young company working to change how people experience the outdoors. We designed the Oru
Beach to make getting out on the water simple, fun and easy.
This manual gives an overview of the Beach’s features— and includes a lot of useful tips and kayaking
know-how. Read on to learn the basics of planning your trips, handling a paddle, getting into the
water, and staying safe. To take your experiences to the next level, we recommend taking a lesson
from a local paddlesports shop.
Happy paddling— we look forward to hearing about your adventures!
The Oru Kayak team
2 ORU KAYAK | BEACH KAYAK OWN ER’S MANUA L
Contents
1/ Product specifications
2/ Safety warnings
3/ Assembly & disassembly
4/ Proper care & storage
5/ Transporting your Oru Beach
6/ Recommended usage
7/ Gear list
8/ Kayaking 101
9/ Limited warranty
10/ Your kayak’s information
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1/ Product specifications
The Oru Beach’s design is all about ease and simplicity. A single sheet of double-layered plastic forms the hull and deck of
the assembled kayak, and transforms into the box. The overlapping flaps that form the deck make for ultra-fast assembly,
and the open cockpit gives you plenty of room. Internal bulkheads and a rigid floorboard add strength. The adjustable seat
and footrest let you paddle in comfort. All of the loose parts, as
well as other paddling necessities, fit into the Oru Beach box.
FEATURES
• Refined folding design for ultra fast assembly
• Extra large cockpit for easy entry and exit, and room for your
kid, small dog, or refreshments
• 28” width for increased stability
• Light-weight hull for easy paddling
• Foam seat and fully-adjustable, comfortable backrest
• Easy-to-adjust footrest
• Two sets of carrying handles for effortless maneuvering
on land
MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION
• Double-walled 5 mm poly-propylene hull and deck with
UV inhibitors
• Double-walled 10 mm polypropylene seat and bulkheads
(NOTE: bulkheads are for structural rigidity ONLY and are
not watertight)
• ABS structural components
• Polyproplylene and EPDM rubber trim
• Anodized aluminum reinforcing rod
• Heavy-duty nylon and neoprene rubber fairings
• Nylon and stainless steel fasteners
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DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES
Assembled:
Length
Width
In case:
Length
Width
Height
Weight
12 ’ (371 cm)
28” (71 cm)
33” (84 cm)
12” (30 cm)
30” (76 cm)
26 lbs. (12 kg)
WARNING
DO NOT exceed your boat’s capacity under any circumstances.
Doing so will adversely affect the kayak’s handling and reduce
its stability, which will increase the chance of capsizing or
swamping. Make sure loads are distributed as evenly as possi-
ble, with heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
Capacity
300 lbs.
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2/ Safety Warnings
Kayaking is fun and challenging but involves inherent risks of
serious injury or death. To reduce these risks, users of this
product must follow the warnings and instructions provided in
this manual and in the warning printed on the Oru Beach and
use common sense.
Users of this product agree by their use of this kayak to accept
the inherent risks involved in this paddlesport activity and
agree to follow all instructions, cautions, and warnings carefully before and while using this kayak.
To reduce these risks follow these rules:
WARNING
Kayaking can be physically demanding and
dangerous. Use of this product and
participation in the sport of kayaking involve
inherent risks of serious injury or death.
BEFORE YOU PADDLE
• Consult a physician before you begin kayaking activities
or training. Make sure you are healthy enough to meet the
physical demands of this sport.
• Obtain training in the safe use of your kayak from a qualified
instructor and build your experience in controlled situations.
• Check the weather and water conditions. The Oru Beach is
designed to be used ONLY in sheltered waters, on inland
lakes, or in slow moving rivers. It is NOT designed for white
water use. NEVER go paddling in strong winds, rain,
thunderstorms, choppy water, strong currents, flood waters,
or where tides will affect your ability to steer the kayak or
return to shore.
• Strictly follow the assembly instructions in the Oru Beach
Assembly Guide. If the kayak is not assembled correctly, it
can lose its structural integrity and collapse.
• Inspect the kayak, including the deck straps and buckles, and
all associated equipment (e.g., paddle) before each use for
signs of excessive wear or damage.
• Familiarize yourself with the body of water on which you will
be paddling. Determine whether there are known hazardous
conditions, such as low water levels or sharp rocks, and know
where you can get help quickly in case of an emergency.
• Consult and abide by all US Coast Guard regulations and
6 ORU KAYAK | BEACH KAYAK OWN ER’S MANUA L
state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances regarding
boating, equipment, and boating safety.
• Prepare a float plan and let friends or relatives know where
you plan to go and when you plan to return.
• Obtain certified first aid and rescue training.
USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
See page 10 for a complete list of required and recommended
gear.
• Always use a US Coast Guard–approved life jacket or
personal flotation device (PFD, such as the Oru PFD). Read
the PFD manufacturer’s instructions and familiarize yourself
with how the PFD should be worn.
• Dress appropriately for your weather conditions:
cold weather and/or cold water can result in hypothermia.
• Carry first aid equipment and understand how to use it.
• Carry an audible signal device, such as a horn or whistle.
If possible, attach the device to your PFD.
• If additional outfitting is attached to this kayak, use
compatible accessories only.
• Make sure that all equipment and baggage is stowed
securely and does not impede your safe exit from the kayak.
WHEN YOU PADDLE
• NEVER paddle alone. It is best to have someone with you in
case of an emergency or accident.
• DO NOT exceed the kayak’s maximum load capacity, which
includes the weight of the passenger and any onboard equipment and provisions.
• Only paddle in flat, protected water. This product is not
designed for use in fast-moving water, rough water, or large
surf.
• Avoid hazardous conditions, such as flooding, tidal changes,
waves, fast-moving currents, and high surf.
• Never allow minors to use this kayak without adult
supervision.
• Never use or consume alcohol, drugs, or any other
substance that may affect your coordination, judgment,
or ability to operate this kayak safety.
• Never exceed your ability. Honestly assess your physical
strength, endurance, and paddling skills.
• Scout unfamiliar waters; remove your kayak from the water
and carry it to avoid unsafe conditions.
Read this entire Owner’s Manual for additional safety
information.
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3/ Assembly & dissassembly4/ Proper care & storage
See the Oru Beach Assembly Guide, included with your kayak.
WARNING
Strictly follow the included Oru Beach Assembly Guide. If the
Oru Beach is not assembled correctly, it can lose its structural
integrity and collapse.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
With proper care and maintenance, your Oru Kayak will last for
years. To ensure this, follow these tips:
• Inspect your kayak before each use to make sure it is not
damaged, and that all screws are tight.
• Rinse off your kayak with clean, fresh water after each use,
especially after paddling in salt water.
• Make sure water does not collect inside the kayak case after
use.
• Some water may collect inside the plastic corrugations. To
let it escape, flip the unfolded kayak upside down to let it
drain out.
• For additional cleaning, use general-purpose cleaning spray
with a soft, non-abrasive rag or sponge.
• In case of serious damage or punctures, email us at service@orukayak.com or call us at 1-844-FOLD-ORU.
Please include photos for faster resolution.
STORAGE
Store your Oru Kayak in its box form, indoors, away from direct
sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause plastics to
discolor or become brittle.
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5/ Transporting your Oru Beach6/ Recommended usage
The Oru Beach is compact and light. Take advantage of this by
lifting rather than dragging it, to avoid scratching the bottom of
the kayak.
How to transport the Oru Beach:
• Carry the box with the shoulder strap for short trips. For longer trips, use the Oru Pack, the custom-designed backpack.
• DO NOT carry your Oru Beach on top of a car or trailer. If
transporting in a car, fold it into its box form and stash it
inside.
• The kayak can also be carried as an assembled boat by using
the neoprene carrying handles located on either end of the
kayak, or the plastic handles on either side of the cockpit.
• The best way to fly with your Oru Beach is to pack it in the
Oru Pack and check it in. Airlines measure luggage as length
+ width + height , so the Oru Beach is 75”. Most often airlines
do not charge an additional baggage fee for the Oru Kayak,
but some airlines may.
The Oru Beach is designed to be used ONLY in sheltered flat
waters, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It is NOT designed for
fast-moving water, rough water, or large surf.
The Oru Beach is a recreational kayak and does not have waterproof bulkheads. If it capsizes, the entire kayak will fill with
water and can sink.
• Whenever possible, enter the Oru Beach from a dock or a
place where the kayak is floating in the water. If beach landings or launches are required, choose a location with smooth
sand or mud to minimize abrasion.
• DO NOT scrape or drag the kayak, especially on sharp surfaces.
• DO NOT use or fold your Oru Kayak in air temperatures below freezing (32°F/0°C). The kayak’s plastic hull can become
brittle and crack at temperatures below freezing.
WARNING
The Oru Beach is designed to be used ONLY in sheltered at
waters, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It is NOT designed for
fast-moving water, rough water, or large surf.
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7/ Gear List
The following is a list of required or useful items that can be
found at www.orukayak.com, your local kayak shop, or through
other retailers.
REQUIRED GEAR
• PFD (personal flotation device) (i.e., a life jacket): This must
be US Coast Guard-approved (or approved by the relevant
agency in other countries), such as the Oru PFD, and must be
worn at all times while kayaking.
• Paddle: Kayaks use a double-bladed paddle like the Oru
Paddle or Oru Carbon Paddle.
• A horn or whistle: US Coast Guard regulations require an
audible signal device to be used in all watercraft. Attach the
device to your PFD.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED GEAR
• First aid kit
• Phone or other communication device. Devices not made for
marine use should be kept in a waterproof case or dry bag.
• Appropriate clothing, depending on weather and conditions. Always be aware of hypothermia risks and bring extra
clothing. For short trips and casual paddling, wear thermal
clothing made of synthetic fabrics or wool.
• Bailing sponge
• Bilge pump
• Food and plenty of drinking water
• Maps and compass
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.)
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8/ Kayaking 101
All users of this kayak should obtain qualified instruction to
learn proper paddling technique, water safety, and first aid
before using this kayak. This manual is not intended to provide
complete training on all aspects of kayaking. The following
tips, however, are provided to get you started. For more detailed information, visit http://tinyurl.com/OruKayaking101
ENTERING & EXITING A KAYAK
For all methods of entry and exit, be aware of water and
weather conditions; nothing will knock you off balance like
an unexpected wave. Different types of entries are described
below. To exit the kayak, perform the entry steps in reverse.
From a high dock or boat:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Sit down on the dock.
3. Place your paddle nearby so you can reach it
once you are in the kayak.
4. Place both feet in the kayak.
5. With both hands on the dock, lower yourself into the
kayak. Hold on to the dock to maintain stability; keep your
center of gravity low as you enter the kayak. Slide into a
sitting position. DO NOT stand up in the kayak at any point.
From a low dock or platform:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Place the paddle across both sides of the coming, just
behind the backrest.
3. Sit down on the dock next to the boat, in front of the
paddle.
4. Place one hand on the paddle and the coaming and grip
them together tightly.
5. Place the palm of your other hand on the paddle on the
dock, near your buttocks (do not grab the paddle; you will
smash your fingers).
6. Swing your legs into the kayak.
7. Holding on to the coaming and paddle shaft, place weight
on your hand (and the paddle) on the dock.
8. Lower yourself into the seat. The end of the paddle braced
against the dock will keep the kayak stable and prevent it
from drifting as you enter.
From a beach:
1. Make sure the kayak is floating in a few inches of water.
2. Straddle the kayak over the coaming.
3. Lower yourself into the seat.
4. Start paddling.
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8/ Kayaking 101 (continued)
SITTING IN A KAYAK
The proper sitting position will keep you comfortable for hours
of paddling and also will help you better control the boat.
1. Sit in the kayak upright, with your back against the seat
back.
2. Adjust the footrest so that your feet rest on it, with
your ankles in a neutral position. Your knees should be
comfortably bent, and your legs should be splayed apart.
PADDLING A KAYAK
Paddling a kayak is fairly intuitive, but a few tips will make
your experience more efficient, fun, and relaxing.
How to choose a paddle
Recommended paddle sizes may vary based on the paddle
shape and type, as well as your personal preference. This table
offers rules of thumb:
YOUR HEIGHT RECOMMENDED PADDLE LENGTH
5’0” – 5’5” 215 – 220 cm
5’5” – 6’2” 220 – 230 cm
6’2”+ 225 – 240 cm
On some kayak paddles the blades are in the same plane. On
others, the blades are offset, to cut more efficiently through
wind and water; these are called feathered paddles. Many paddles, including the Oru Paddle, can be set in either a feathered
or unfeathered position.
How to hold a paddle
1. Hold the paddle securely in front of you with your hands on
the shaft about elbow-width apart.
2. Raise the paddle above your head and balance the paddle
shaft on your head. Re-position your hands so that your
your elbows are at right angles.
3. Keep your hands in this position and rotate the paddle to
just below shoulder height.
4. This position will allow you to rotate your torso while you
paddle. This will let you paddle faster, longer and more
efficiently. It will also protect you from shoulder fatigue or
injury.
5. If you’re using an unfeathered paddle, your knuckles
should be aligned with the paddle blades.
6. If you’re using a feathered paddle, the knuckles of your
dominant hand should align with the corresponding paddle blade. With each stroke, you’ll rotate the paddle so
that the blade enters the water at a right angle.
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7. Whichever paddle you choose, you will use the same grip
and positioning for all strokes.
How to paddle
For all strokes, maintain an upright posture, with the footrest
and seat back adjusted as described on page 12.
Forward stroke
1. Start with the paddle oriented as described above.
2. Rotate to your left at the torso, and then place two-thirds
of the paddle blade in the water; imagine you’re stabbing
the water.
3. Rotate your torso toward your right with the paddle in the
water. Repeat on the opposite side, alternating strokes on
the right and left. You want to use both hands equally—
push with one hand while you pull with the other.
MANEUVERING A KAYAK
Rudder turn
1. When you have forward momentum, place your paddle in
the water just behind your hip.
2. The resistance and torsion will cause your boat to rotate
around the side the paddle is on.
Sweep-stroke turn
1. Place the paddle in the water near the bow (front).
2. Make a large arc-shaped motion toward the stern (back).
The sweep stroke can be done in a forward or reverse manner.
To turn the boat in a circle, do a forward sweep stroke on one
side and a reverse sweep stroke on the other side.
Reverse stroke
To stop, slow down, or move backward, do the same stroke in
reverse. There is no need to flip the paddle backward.
WARNING
Always practice new strokes in calm, shallow water.
WARNING
Kayakers, especially beginners and novices, can be particularly
vulnerable to adverse weather and water conditions.
Because of their light weight and limited speed,
kayaks can be especially sensitive to wind, waves, and current.
Always be aware of your paddling abilities, the water/weather
conditions, and the limitations of your kayak, and
use common sense and good judgment for your own safety.
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9/ Limited warranty
Oru Kayak, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects
in material or workmanship for a period of one year from the
date of its original purchase. If a problem occurs, you must
contact Oru Kayak in a timely manner by email at service@
orukayak.com, and obtain a Return Authorization Number.
Please include photos for faster resolution. Once a Return
Authorization Number is obtained, you must promptly ship
the product, postage prepaid, to Oru Kayak, Inc. for inspection
and warranty consideration, to the return address that will
be provided. Any product that is covered by this warranty and
that is found in the reasonable judgment of Oru Kayak, Inc. to
be defective in materials or workmanship will be repaired or
replaced at Oru Kayak’s option. All covered repairs or replacement products will be made at no charge during the warranty
period and within a reasonable period of time.
This warranty does NOT cover
Products used for commercial or rental purposes; normal
wear and tear, including punctures, cuts and abrasions sustained in normal use; damage caused by accident, neglect, or
misuse; damage caused by improper storage, maintenance, or
handling; damage caused by extreme weather or environmental conditions, including white water conditions; products that
have been structurally altered or modified; damage caused
while the product is in possession of a freight carrier or party
other than Oru Kayak; cosmetic wear, abrasion, or damage
caused by excessive UV exposure; and products determined
to have been used for any activity other than an activity that is
intended or customary for the product.
Activating your warranty
The warranty registration form should be completed online
(go to www.orukayak.com/pages/warranty) within thirty days
of original purchase or receipt of product to be activated. It
is suggested that you keep your sales receipt should it be required in the future for proof of purchase.
LIMITATION AND DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED
WARRANTIES
To the extent permitted by applicable laws:
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of merchantability as to any product or part, whether or not the
product or part is covered by any express warranty herein;
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of fitness
for a particular purpose, and there are no warranties that
extend beyond the description on the face hereof.
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10/ Your Kayak’s Information
• In those jurisdictions where the implied warranties may not
be disclaimed, any implied warranty is limited in duration to
the duration of the express warranty described in the warranty statement. Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may
not apply to you.
NO LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
The repair and replacement remedies described in this warranty are the owner’s sole and exclusive remedy. In no event
shall Oru Kayak be liable for any incidental, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights that vary from state to state.
For activating your warranty, you will need the place of purchase, date of receipt, and the Hull Identication Number (HIN). The HIN is your kayak’s unique ID. It is located on the
outside of the kayak hull on the back right. If you are having
trouble finding it, watch a video at http://tinyurl.com/ndHIN.
For your own records:
PLACE OF PURCHASE: ___________________________________________________________________
DATE OF RECEIPT: ______________________________________________________________________
HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (HIN):
OKA
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Keep in touch!
Stay connected to see what we’re up to, and
share your own journeys and photos with the
Oru Kayak community!
facebook.com/orukayak
@orukayak #orukayak
@orukayak #orukayak
Have questions about your boat, or want to
share your Oru Beach stories directly with us
(we love hearing about them!)?