Surfski#4 of 15 in Touring & Sea Kayaks

Epic Kayaks V7 Surfski

by Epic Kayaks

4.6
PaddleProw scoreEditorial rating out of 5, based on specs, build and fit for purpose

The Epic V7 strikes a strong balance between speed and stability, making it a go-to surfski for paddlers transitioning from recreational kayaks to performance paddling.

  • Stable yet fast hull
  • Great for intermediate paddlers
  • Confident in chop
Length
541 cm
Weight
14-16 kg
Width
50 cm
Material
Fiberglass / Carbon…

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01The review

The Epic V7 stands as one of the most versatile surfskis in Epic Kayaks' celebrated lineup, designed to bridge the gap between stability and speed for paddlers who want a craft that grows with their skill. Built using Epic's proprietary Performance Layup construction, the V7 combines carbon, kevlar, and innovative core materials to deliver a hull that is both lightweight and remarkably durable, able to withstand the rigors of ocean surf, choppy bays, and long flatwater training sessions alike. Its generous waterline width and moderate rocker give intermediate paddlers the confidence to tackle rougher conditions without feeling overwhelmed, while still offering enough glide and efficiency to satisfy those training for fitness or distance racing.

At the heart of the V7's appeal is its thoughtfully engineered cockpit, featuring Epic's adjustable bucket seat and foot-steering rudder system that allows paddlers to fine-tune their position for maximum comfort and power transfer. The seat height and footplate are easily adjustable, accommodating a wide range of paddler heights and body types, which makes the V7 a popular choice for clubs and rental fleets where multiple users share the same boat. The hull's secondary stability is particularly noteworthy, giving less experienced paddlers a reassuring platform to develop their bracing and catching skills in following seas, bumps, and wind swell, all while maintaining enough speed potential to keep more experienced paddlers engaged during intervals or downwind runs.

Beyond its on-water performance, the Epic V7 reflects the brand's commitment to accessible, high-quality surfski design, making it an ideal entry point for kayakers transitioning from flatwater touring or stand-up paddleboarding into the surfski discipline. Its moderate length, compared to Epic's faster, narrower race models, strikes a practical balance that suits paddlers progressing through technique development, coastal exploration, and recreational fitness paddling. With a durable finish, reliable rudder hardware, and Epic's reputation for consistent manufacturing quality, the V7 has earned a place in the lineup as a dependable, confidence-inspiring surfski that performs across a broad spectrum of paddling conditions and paddler experience levels.

02Spec sheet

Length541 cm (17'9")
Width50 cm (19.75 in)
Weight14-16 kg (depending on layup)
Hull MaterialFiberglass / Carbon options
Recommended Paddler LevelIntermediate

Manufacturer specifications. Dimensions and weights can vary slightly between production years and outfitting packages.

03Pros & cons

What we like

  • Excellent stability for its speed class
  • Comfortable for multi-hour paddles
  • Efficient glide compared to recreational kayaks
  • Durable, well-finished carbon/fiberglass layup
  • Good secondary stability in chop and surf

Watch out for

  • Pricier than entry-level touring kayaks
  • Requires roof rack or trailer due to length
  • Less forgiving than wider rec kayaks for absolute beginners
  • Carbon models need careful handling to avoid gel coat chips

04Key features

  • 17'9" (541 cm) performance surfski hull
  • Stable mid-width design for intermediate paddlers
  • Lightweight Performance or Ultra carbon construction options
  • Adjustable foot-operated rudder system
  • Large self-draining bailer for rough water
  • Contoured, adjustable seat with hip pads

05Verdict

4.6

The Epic V7 strikes a strong balance between speed and stability, making it a go-to surfski for paddlers transitioning from recreational kayaks to performance paddling. It handles chop and open water confidently while still being approachable, and the build quality justifies its mid-to-upper price point.

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Epic Kayaks V7 SurfskiScore 4.6 / 5Check price