the I3 223 is by far the largest in pyranha's trio of all river craft. the I3 range has been sold as playfull river runners that will build confidence and go anywhere. and you know what...... they actually got it right!

i've been living with the boat for around 6 months now and have taken it to the local play hole, coaching on flat water and moving, as well as a trip to the alps. i have to say that it performed admirably.

the outfitting is the usual quality synchro 5 that we've all heard about by now and due to the extra volume in the bow you also have enough room for creeking footware. (something lacking in the smaller versions)

in terms of playfulness the boat is lacking to say the least, (however i also paddle an s6f) when compared to real play boats but if a boat to build confidence in the hole and take you for those first surfs and spins is what your after, look no further.

the river running side is what makes the boat fun. i often find that running a familar river in a larger boat to be a bore, but also that overloading the playboat for the trip just creates problems. this is where the i3 comes in. i've run g5's in this boat with confidence, due to its ability to make tight eddys and pick up some speed. Though it does have resurfacing nightmares in every large drop. (if you're ready for it, you can cope with it).

over all, as long as you don't expect endless wheels in the hole, or the ability to ride ANY water feature the gods through at you, this boat will put a smile on your face and deliver you home at the end of the day.