A modern evolution of one of the most versatile solo canoes

For years, the Esquif Echo has been one of the most popular solo canoes for paddlers looking for a boat that blends speed, maneuverability, and versatility. With its smooth glide and responsive handling, it’s a canoe that feels equally comfortable on calm lakes or winding rivers.

Now Esquif has introduced a new model: the Echo 2.0.

Rather than replacing the original, the Echo 2.0 builds on the same proven hull design while adding more depth and durability for paddlers who want to carry heavier loads or explore more challenging water.

We spoke with Guillaume Chasse from Esquif about the Echo 2.0 and what inspired the update to the original version.  Guillaume mentioned: "...it came from the market,to have a single seater like the Echo but with more volume and the possibility to use as a tripping canoe."

What Is the Echo 2.0?

The Echo 2.0 keeps the same elegant hull shape that made the original Echo so enjoyable to paddle, but adds extra depth and standard T-Formex construction.

The result is a canoe that:

- Handles waves and white water better

- Carries more gear

- Feels drier in moving water

- Is built for tougher river use

The additional 1.5 inches of depth increases freeboard and load capacity without sacrificing the Echo’s speed and maneuverability.

Echo 2.0 Specifications

The shallow-arch hull provides excellent primary stability with smooth secondary stability when edging, making the canoe predictable and enjoyable for both beginner and experienced paddlers.

Echo vs Echo 2.0

Both canoes share the same hull design, but they’re built for slightly different priorities.

The original Echo is lighter and excellent for paddlers who prioritize easier loading/unloading on vehicles, portaging and efficient lake travel.

The Echo 2.0, on the other hand, is designed to handle bigger loads and rougher conditions.

Why Many Paddlers Will Choose the Echo 2.0

Guillaume Chasse of Esquif mentioned that paddlers would choose an Echo 2.0 when looking for "...a solo canoe that wants to paddle in both still and rougher waters for trips down a longer section of rivers without needing to portage through rougher surroundings."

1. A Drier Ride

The extra depth gives the canoe more freeboard, which helps keep water out when paddling through white water.

2. Higher Carrying Capacity

With roughly 500 lb of capacity, the Echo 2.0 can comfortably handle:

- Larger paddlers

- Canoe camping gear

- Multi-day trips

3. More Comfortable on Rivers

The extra volume and durable T-Formex construction make the Echo 2.0 better suited to moving water and light whitewater.

4. Tougher Construction

Standard T-Formex is extremely impact resistant and repairable, making it ideal for rocky rivers or expedition travel.  We will note that Esquif did utilize the T-Formex Lite construction for both the gunwales and the seat on the Echo 2.0, with the remainder of the canoe using their standard T-Formex construction.

When the Original Echo Still Makes Sense

Even with the Echo 2.0 available, the original Echo remains an excellent canoe.

In fact, some paddlers may still prefer it.

Choose the Original Echo If:

You want the lightest possible 14 foot canoe

At around 38 pounds, the Echo is significantly lighter and easier to carry on portages.

You paddle mostly calm lakes

If you primarily paddle flatwater, the additional depth of the 2.0 may not be necessary.

You pack light

For day trips or minimalist overnight trips, the original Echo’s capacity is more than enough.

Which Echo Is Right for You?

Both canoes are fantastic options — the right choice simply depends on how and where you paddle.

Choose the Echo 2.0 if you want:

- More capacity for gear

- A drier ride in waves and white water

- Greater durability

- More confidence on rivers

Choose the original Echo if you want:

- A lighter canoe

- Easier portaging

- Excellent flatwater efficiency

Either way, you’re getting one of the most enjoyable solo canoes on the market.

 

✔️ Explore both models:

- Echo 2.0

- Echo (Original)

All outfitting is available on both the original Echo and the 2.0, including wood gunwales, skid plates, and a full solo white water outfitting package.  You can contact us to reserve yours today at info@paddle.ca