Esquif Prospecteur 16' T-Formex Canoe | Red

The Prospecteur 16 brings legendary Chestnut Prospector design to modern paddlers seeking serious versatility. Built with a rugged T-Formex hull that laughs in the face of rocks and rough conditions, this canoe handles everything from peaceful day trips to week-long expeditions with equal confidence. Whether you're carving through whitewater or cruising calm lakes, you'll appreciate its exceptional stability, predictable tracking, and responsive maneuverability. It's the kind of canoe that gets tougher the more you use it—perfect for adventurers who demand durability without compromise.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Construction : T-Formex
• Length : 4.9 m (16′)
• Width : 89 cm (35″)
• Rocker : 7 cm (2.75″)
• Depth : 35.6 cm (14″)
• Weight : 29.5 kg (65 pounds)
• Carrying Weight : 455 Kg (1000 lb)
• Colour : Red, Green
• Seats : Webbed seats
• Standard : Vinyl trim, contoured ash yoke, thwart

T-Formex

The Prospecteur 16 features T-Formex construction, a high-tech laminated material that combines an ABS foam core with protective outer plastic skin. This means your canoe can handle serious abuse—abrasions, heavy impacts, even the occasional rock encounter—and bounce back to its original shape. T-Formex offers the best of both worlds: it's stronger than fiberglass yet lighter than polyethylene, giving you a durable hull that won't weigh you down on the water. Whether you're paddling calm lakes or tackling rougher conditions, this material delivers the toughness recreational and expedition paddlers depend on.

Care

Keep your canoe looking great with simple maintenance. Wash it regularly using mild household cleaner to remove dirt and debris. Apply a UV protectant like 303 a couple times yearly to maintain color and add shine—just avoid petroleum-based products or harsh solvents, which can damage the laminate. Minor dents in T-Formex typically pop out on their own after sun exposure. For stubborn indentations, gently warm the area with a hair dryer or heat gun, moving slowly to avoid burning the surface. Take your time with heat application, as rapid heating can cause damage that won't be covered under warranty.

Storage

Store your canoe upside down on racks in a cool, dry indoor space whenever possible. If outdoor storage is necessary, keep it on racks away from the ground—never let the wooden gunnels make contact with soil or pavement. Avoid storing your canoe where snow and ice can accumulate on top, as the weight can warp the hull. Proper storage protects your investment and keeps your canoe ready for your next adventure on the water.