At the shop we currently we have two 12’ rafts, a Hyside Max 12 and a NRS Custom E-Osprey 120. We realize comparing these two boats isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison of designs; it would have been better if we had the NRS E-120D or NRS Otter 120D. Nevertheless, we still thought it could be informative, worthwhile and was a good enough excuse to set them up and stand around in the sun and talk rafts.

A 4-bay frame is being built for the Hyside and our plan for the NRS is to make a demo dory/raft out of it. The NRS is a continuous curve raft that we’ve had NRS custom make for us. It’s very similar in length to an AIRE puma.

12’ rafts are a ton of fun. They’re great as paddleboats as well as oar rigs. These boats are designed for different things. The Hyside Max 12 has a great shape for hauling gear and is flatter, good for packing in a bigger paddle crew. The NRS has a sportier continuous curve that makes for a more dynamic ride down the river.

Below is a chart with our comments and what we found in our comparison.

Other Impressions - Even though these boats are built for different purposes, it was still a worthwhile comparison. We believe Hyside and NRS make some of the best rafts on the market. When comparing these two particular rafts in this situation, our opinion is that Hyside has a better design and NRS has better construction and slightly beefier materials.

Here are pictures of the frames we’re working on for these boats. The Hyside Max 12 frame will be a lightweight 4-bay breakdown. The NRS frame is a prototype dory-raft frame, that will be more enclosed and decked over.

Coming soon! Comparing a couple 14’ rafts. Until then….