# Custom Kayaks Horizon

> Surfski by Custom Kayaks, out of production. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-horizon/
> Cite as: Custom Kayaks Horizon, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-horizon/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Length: 5.6 m
- Beam: 48 cm
- Deck height: 33.5 cm (estimated)
- Layup weights: Glass/Carbon 12.5 kg
- Usually paddled by: New paddlers

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability band 6–8 out of 10 (dimension estimate, low confidence).
- Speed rated 4 out of 10.

Modelled from published beam, length and deck height. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight.

These ratings are Surfski Index estimates, worked out from published dimensions, traced hull shapes where we have them, and reviews. They are not supplied by the maker or timed on the water. How a ski feels depends on your weight, skill, set-up and the conditions, so use them to shortlist skis and paddle one before you buy. Method: https://surfskiindex.com/how-it-works/#limits

Evidence note: This band is estimated from published dimensions. Qualitative context includes 2 paddler reports and 3 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Estimated sweet spot 74–86 kg, broader estimated guide 60–89 kg. An estimate from hull dimensions, not the designer's intended weight.

## Suits
Beginner learning, surf-zone play and first downwind runs; forgiving in mild-to-moderate conditions

## Hull
Short (5.6m), wide (48cm) high-volume beginner hull with an extended, widened mid-section for stability, a sharp V forward of the cockpit and a reverse-V tail. Deep, tapered cockpit centres the paddler and a higher front deck sheds wave-wash; a shallow, easy-remount seat suits novices.

## What works
- Among the most stable skis on the market - ideal first ski
- Robust glass build made for surf conditions
- Shallow cockpit and low seat make remounting easy

## Trade-offs
- Slow relative to full-length race skis
- Discontinued; brand and support gone, thin resale
- A cm or two of water can slop in the cockpit (per reviewer)

## Generations
- ~2009-2015 (discontinued): (discontinued) Entry-level beginner single ski from Custom Kayaks (Durban, South Africa); strong glass build for surf conditions. Brand later wound down and its site is offline.

## What paddlers say
- surfski.info review (Mark Lewin): 'This is one of the most stable skis on the market'... 'a great ski for paddlers starting out'; praised robustness, cockpit comfort and ease of remounting (surfski.info).
- playak buyers guide describes the Horizon as 'probably the most stable ski available' while still 'fun to paddle and surf' (playak.com).

## Sources
- https://surfski.info/reviews/story/1117/surfskiinfo-review-custom-kayaks-horizon.html
- https://playak.com/buyers-guide/boats-boards/custom-kayaks-horizon-single
- https://surfski.info/forum/26-other/9045-custom-kayaks-horizon.html

## Prices
Current new prices and dealers: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-horizon/#buy