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first thoughts: NRS Neutron Whitewater Packrafts

Hey there, Simon here from AQ Outdoors, reporting from NRS headquarters down in Moscow, Idaho. Today, I’m giving a quick rundown on the NRS Neutron series of whitewater packrafts.

I was lucky enough to test one of these out at the Oklahoma City artificial whitewater course—a pretty sporty, pushy, and steep Class III setup in a boiling manmade environment. So, I got a little taste of how the Neutron handles in some serious conditions.

Full disclosure: I’m a whitewater paddler and instructor, but I’m fairly new to the whole packrafting game. That said, let’s dive into the details of this boat.

The NRS Neutron Series: Two Sizes for Different Needs

The Neutron is NRS’s whitewater-specific packraft model, available in two sizes:

• Regular – Ideal for smaller paddlers or those looking for a compact, day-trip-ready packraft.
• Extra Large (XL) – Designed for larger paddlers or those prioritizing extra packability for multi-day trips.

So, whether you’re heading out for a quick rip down a local river or planning an overnight adventure, there’s an option to suit your needs.

Features and Build Quality

T-Zip Storage for Expeditions

Like many modern packrafts, the Neutron features a T-zip in the back, allowing for internal tube storage—perfect for overnight trips where gear space is a premium.

Heavy-Duty Durability

The boat is built with a tough, heavy-duty material that ups the durability factor. This brings the weight in at around 11–12 lbs (including the seat)—not the absolute lightest packraft in its class, but still within a reasonable mid-range weight for whitewater performance.

Well-Designed Outfitting

Inside the boat, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed backrest that, for the most part, sits in the right spot. That said, I noticed it sometimes dropped below my hips during aggressive paddling, but that may have been due to improper adjustment on my part.

It also comes with built-in simple thigh braces. If you’re looking for a bit more comfort, NRS offers a retrofit thigh brace kit with added padding—something to consider if you plan to be in the boat for extended periods.

Plenty of Attachment Points

The Neutron includes several lightweight D-rings, allowing you to rig up a chicken line, rescue line, or attach a rope for portages. Four D-rings around the front also offer additional attachment options.

Whitewater-Ready Design

• Self-draining floor – No sitting in a bathtub of water after every wave hit.
• Inflatable floor – Adds comfort and improves performance.
• Reinforced bottom – Built with heavy-duty material for increased durability when scraping over rocks and dealing with rougher terrain.

On-Water Performance: Like a Freestyle Kayak

Now, onto how this thing actually paddles.

Having only tested it in a steep, pushy Class III environment, I’d say the Neutron handles a lot like a freestyle kayak—quick to pivot, highly maneuverable, and, well, very much at the mercy of the water. It gets pushed around by waves, but that’s kind of the nature of packrafts.

That said, it punches through waves well if you hit them straight on. If you find yourself sideways in a hole, though? Expect to surf for a bit. Again, that’s just part of the game when paddling these ultra-lightweight crafts.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, the NRS Neutron and Neutron XL are fun, sporty whitewater packrafts that offer solid durability, great maneuverability, and well-thought-out outfitting. They’re a blast to paddle, though expect to stay on your toes in pushy water.

If you’re looking to learn more or want to grab one for yourself, check out AQOutdoors.com. See you on the water!