Dagger KayaksAuthorized Dealer

Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak

★★★★★See all reviews
$1,799.00 or pay over time with Shop Pay Installments
In stock — freight delivery to your door; shipping confirmed at checkout
Color: TURQUOISE
Pickup available at Farmville Store · usually ready in 1 hour
Authorized Dagger Kayaks dealer
Paddle experts since 1977
  • 12.0 ft length
  • 280 lbs max capacity
  • Built for Whitewater
Not sure if it's the right boat?Talk to a paddler who knows the water.
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Authorized DealerGenuine Dagger Kayaks
Since 1977Paddle experts
Expert HelpWe'll dial it in
In-Store PickupFarmville, VA
Why paddlers choose it

Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak

WhitewaterRivers & Moving WaterWhitewater
A racing hull that paddles like a creek boat
01 — HULL & SPEED

A racing hull that paddles like a creek boat

The Vanguard 12.0 strikes the perfect balance of speed and confidence, paddling more like a creek boat than a traditional long boat. Its innovative hull is engineered to keep the inspired paddler fast, agile, and in control.

  • Long water lines and slender, stable width for unparalleled speed
  • Rocker profile keeps you on the surface and agile
  • Narrow stern minimizes resistance and helps you turn efficiently
Contour Ergo outfitting for immersive control
02 — OUTFITTING & COMFORT

Contour Ergo outfitting for immersive control

The acclaimed Contour Ergo system delivers exceptional control with unparalleled comfort. Updated models add the all-new Contour Ergo Engage Thigh Brace System for a more connected, immersive paddling experience.

  • Bomb-proof roto-molded seat with intuitive fore and aft adjustment
  • Industry-first ratcheting leg lifter with 3 inches of elevation
  • Adjustable hip pads and quick-release backband
Stiffer, tougher HDPE build with a step-out wall
03 — CONSTRUCTION & SAFETY

Stiffer, tougher HDPE build with a step-out wall

Built from High-Density Polyethylene for a longer-lasting, stiffer, and more impact-resistant hull. An innovative safety step-out wall adds structural support and aids quick cockpit exits.

  • High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) for long-lasting durability
  • Safety step-out wall for fast emergency exits
  • Reinforced foot brace with padded toe-cup system
Engineered for elite river running and downstream speed
04 — RIVER RUNNING & RACING

Engineered for elite river running and downstream speed

Designed for the motivated whitewater paddler who desires speed without sacrificing maneuverability. The Vanguard 12.0 instills confidence in big water while keeping you fast on the race line.

  • Optimized for downstream racing and fast river running
  • Large cockpit for easy entry and exit
  • Available in multiple colorways including Blue Smoke and Turquoise
Reviews

What paddlers say

94% recommend · 480 reviews on Facebook.

Greg BridenMay 2025

Great company. Colton was very helpful in selecting a great paddle. Very knowledgeable.

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Joey SchottMay 2025

Got my wife's first kayak here and the guys were super helpful and friendly. Immediately welcoming and inviting — I can't wait to go back and browse their large inventory of kayaks and gear. Thank y'all for making our experience awesome!

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Kali JumpApr 2024

So pleased with my Recon 120HD! Even though they're 2 hours away I had my kayak shipped to me. The packing was great and I received it undamaged. They were super helpful over the phone answering all my questions while I chose which kayak I wanted. Awesome company!

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Jeff ProehlSep 2022

I bought my first kayak (I'm 61) thanks to Parker's education and patience. He spent two hours with me and even after the sale continued to patiently answer my many questions and offer advice. I was completely at ease and enjoyed the whole experience.

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Joey BeninghoveSep 2022

The Mecca of anything kayaking and kayak fishing! I ordered a new kayak from their website and they had it ready and waiting when I got there. Very friendly and helpful staff, and the largest inventory of kayak accessories anywhere around.

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
David SpringsSep 2021

Bought a great Nova Craft canoe here — a 3–4 hour drive from home but well worth it. It took them about 5 minutes to load it and strap it on my car and I was gone.

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Phred CareySep 2021

You guys rock — super fast shipping and my kayak got to my doorstep without a scratch. It was definitely packed with care! I'm already recommending you to all my kayak friends.

★★★★★ Recommended on Facebook
Make the right call

How it compares

See how the Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak stacks up against similar models we carry.

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Price$1,799.00$1,274.25
Length12.0 ft10.0 ft
Weight61 lbs54 lbs
Max capacity280 lbs140 lbs
Hull
Add to CartView
The numbers

Full specifications

Length
12 ft (144 in)
Width
25 in
Deck Height
15 in
Weight
60.5 lbs
Volume
104 gallons
Max Capacity
280 lbs
Paddler Weight Range
120–280 lbs
Cockpit
Large, sit-inside (1 paddler)
Hull Material
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Outfitting
Contour Ergo Engage with roto-molded seat & ratcheting leg lifter
Best For
River running & whitewater racing
Overview

About this kayak

WhitewaterRivers & Moving WaterWhitewater

📞 Call 1-800-442-4837 for shipping information and cost.

The Dagger Vanguard 12.0 is the next generation of Dagger racing kayaks, designed for the inspired whitewater paddler who demands unparalleled speed. Every aspect of the Vanguard's innovative hull promotes speed and instills confidence. The acclaimed Contour Ergo outfitting delivers exceptional control with outstanding comfort and safety. This fresh design paddles more like a creek boat than a long boat, yet offers the speed, agility, and elegance of a 12-foot kayak — a barrier-breaking performance machine unlike anything else on the water.

Key Features

  • Next-generation racing hull — unparalleled speed with creek boat agility
  • Contour Ergo outfitting — exceptional control, comfort, and safety
  • Available Color: Turquoise

Specifications

  • Length: 12'3" / 373 cm
  • Width: 25" / 63.5 cm
  • Deck Height: 15" / 38 cm
  • Cockpit Length: 34" / 86 cm
  • Cockpit Width: 19" / 48 cm
  • Volume: 104 gal / 393 L
  • Weight: 60.5 lbs / 27 kg
  • Paddler Weight Range: 120–280 lbs / 54–127 kg
Peace of mind

Warranty

This product is covered by Dagger Kayaks's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. As an authorized Dagger Kayaks dealer, PaddleVA handles the entire warranty process for you — if anything goes wrong, contact us first and we'll work directly with the manufacturer on your behalf. Keep your order confirmation as proof of purchase. Coverage terms vary by product and are set by the manufacturer; normal wear, UV fade, and damage from impact or improper transport are typically excluded. Questions about coverage on this item? Call or visit us before or after you buy — we're happy to explain exactly what's covered.
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Is the Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak in stock?
Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak is in stock and usually ships within 1–2 business days.
How does the Dagger Vanguard 120 Whitewater Kayak ship?
It ships via UPS or USPS priced by weight to all 50 states. Most orders leave the shop within 1–2 business days.
Can I pick it up locally?
Yes — choose in-store pickup at checkout and we'll have it inspected, rigged, and ready at our Farmville, VA showroom, usually within an hour.
Is it covered by a warranty?
This product is covered by Dagger Kayaks's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. As an authorized Dagger Kayaks dealer, PaddleVA handles the entire warranty process for you — if anything goes wrong, contact us first and we'll work directly with the manufacturer on your behalf.Keep your order confirmation as proof of purchase. Coverage terms vary by product and are...

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Call our crew for honest advice on size, outfitting, and rigging — or come demo it at our Farmville showroom before you buy.

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