The best inflatable kayak is a great choice for both novice and veteran kayakers who want a durable and versatile kayak at an affordable cost in comparison with hard-shell kayaks. I strongly recommend it because of these advantages:
Ease of set-up. You can easily set up an inflatable kayak within 10 minutes or less with a hand pump, which means taking to the water ASAP. Easy storage and transportation. You can store and transport an inflatable kayak in its carrying bag, a convenient alternative to bulky hard-shell kayaks.
Great performance. You can use an inflatable kayak in the same way as a hard-shell kayak – on seas, lakes and rivers, even on whitewater rapids. You will find that it’s a stable vessel with forgiving qualities, a must for beginners, as well as safe to use on water (i.e., unlikely to sink unless most of the air chambers are punctured).
Top Inflatable Kayak Comparison Table
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  | Sevylor | ||
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  | Sea Eagle Store | ||
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Recommended Best Inflatable Kayak For You
I reviewed dozens of inflatable kayaks in the market and we discovered that these are the best of the bunch.
1.Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Review
Your paddling will be more enjoyable, thanks to its streamlined design allowing it to effortlessly glide over water.
You can be clearly seen, too, when you’re in it because of its bright yellow color coupled with sporty graphics.
You should bring a friend on your kayaking trip since it’s designed to provide roomy space for two people. This kayak is also such a snap to assemble and disassemble – it can be inflated and deflated within 10 minutes or so.
You will appreciate its rugged vinyl material with an inflatable I-beam floor for added rigidity, durability and comfort once on the water. Unless you encounter sharp objects, such as jagged rocks in rapids, your worries about the vinyl ripping apart is unfounded.
Your hours-long kayaking adventure will be made more comfortable with the two adjustable seats with backrests – just lay back, let your kayak glide, and enjoy the experience. You will love the directional stability that the removable skeg provides, a great feature when chilling out time is over.
When on the water, the kayak handled like a dream. Your ride will be smooth because of the ease with which it can be handled, maneuvered, and tracked.
Accessories included in the package are a repair patch kit, two aluminum oars, and high-output pump that can be used for both inflation and deflation.
2. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
You will find its nimble qualities to be a plus when you’re maneuvering between several kayakers while its rigid I-beam floor adds to its stability in rougher waters.
Your comfort is assured because of the inflatable seat with its wide backrest, a must when you’re kayaking solo over long distances.
You even have an inflatable footrest, which will aid in maintaining proper body posture during your trip. Inflation and deflation are fast, easy and convenient with a high-output foot pump. Once inflated, it measures 30x15x108 inches and accommodates a single person (i.e., a weight limit of 220 pounds).
When deflated, it can easily be packed into its carrying bag and stored in your car’s trunk, thanks to its relatively light weight (i.e., 27.2 pounds). You can store your fishing gear for safe storage and easy access at the cargo net and grab line, which is on both ends of the kayak.
You can also store your things behind your seat and beneath your feet although it can be limited in the area. You can either use the 84-inch aluminum oar that comes with the kayak or buy a new one, in case the former is too short for your rowing needs.
A patch repair kit is also included in the package. You should be able to repair small tears and punctures on the kayak on the spot.
3. Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Inflatable Kayak
This inflatable kayak model from Advanced Element measures 15 foot in length, 32 inches in the width, and 2-4 inches for its tracking fins.
The width is perfect to ensure that the kayak is very stable. That width size also allows you to paddle easily without any impairment. For kayakers who always love paddling with their partner, you should note that this kayak does not feature foot braces. However, the back paddler can utilize the middle space of far apart seats.
If you are looking forward to having a comfortable kayak, this model is what you should go for. I mean, if you don’t feel comfortable in the kayak, the kayaking experience will not be incredible at all. That’s why you need to get an inflatable kayak that upholds the user’s comfort. This kayak’s seatbacks are very high.
This ensures that you rest your back comfortably and enjoy the kayak ride. The kayak is also very stable which in return helps you to paddle effortlessly. The inflatable kayak features bungees, pockets, and paddler holders. You can store a few items like snacks in your pockets during your kayaking tour.
The best thing about inflatable kayaks is their ease of setting up. Well, this kayak model has not been left behind also. No one wants to go through the hassle of setting kayaks with complex set-up procedures. All the kayaker lover needs are to set up the kayak in a few minutes and start kayaking. Luckily for you, here is the best kayak with hassle-free set- up requirements. The kayak comes with a manual on how to carry it out of the car and also set up. All you need to do is read the manual’s instructions, follow the step by step process and you will be done in a few minutes.
This inflatable kayak weighs 52 pounds. It can be a bit bulky for a single person to carry it from the car to the watersides. However, you can always not take too much consideration into that since its durability is just incredible. For a second you will forget that it is bulky. Its hull bottom is a product of PVC tarpaulin material. This implies that you will be free from puncture issues.
4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
Well, its price is very affordable. Get rid of the mentality that only expensive is quality, well, once you get this kayak you will tell us we were right. You just can’t bargain about the quality of this Intex inflatable kayak. The features of this kayak are game-changers.
The construction of this kayak is very sturdy. However, the kayak’s paddles seem to be a bit weak. The kayak’s vessel is a product from a 30 gauge type of vinyl material. The vessel is further laminated using a polyester core. As long as you are using this kayak in the right way, it will last for a very long time.
The kayak can also handle gasoline, abrasion, oil, sunlight, and also saltwater. We recommend that you use this kayak on water bodies with small waves. This will improve its longevity. The kayak weighs 43.6 pounds. It’s is not lightweight, however with help from one of your buddies, you can carry the kayak to the waterside easily.
This inflatable kayak model comes with a perfect storage compartment. These features give you more reasons why you should go for this kayak. I mean, imagine a situation where you can carry some snacks, water, and other items during kayaking adventures. That’s magnificent, right? The storage compartments are located at the bow and the stern. The kayak features D-ring which is stainless steel type. You can use the D-rings to tie gear and waterproof bags. The seats of the kayak are designed in a way that you can inflate and adjust them accordingly. The seats also come with a backrest.
For perfect maneuverability, the kayak features dual skegs; one short, and another long. This means that this kayak performs better in small water bodies. The kayak also features an adjustable footrest. Are you worried about setting up the kayak? Well, if this makes you feel better, you don’t need any experience to set-up this kayak. The set-up instructions are very clear and straightforward. You will be done before you even realize it and start your kayaking trip. You will also be comfortable paddling this kayak.
5. Airhead Montana Kayak Two Person Inflatable Kayak
Besides, coming with your friend on your adventure, you will also have room to put in your gear. The best thing is that all these things will not have any negative effect on the maneuverability or stability of the kayak. There is a lot more about these incredible kayak models.
This tandem inflatable kayak has two seats that mean that it can accommodate two kayakers. This kayak is suitable for shallow water bodies due to its inflatable design. The length of the kayak is 12 feet. With that length and a weight of 36.3 pounds, you can be sure the performance and portability of the kayak are perfect. Although it might not be very light, at least it is not too heavy. The weight of this kayak is just moderated.
You will never get disappointed with this kayak’s durability. It is made from premium quality materials. A combination of high-quality materials and sturdy construction supports the overall durability of the kayak.
This kayak is rich in features. The kayak comes with d-rings fixed with the sterns and bow. This implies that you can tie the gear with a lot of ease. The bow of the kayak comes with a stretch net. The stretch net acts as a storage compartment. You can just put in a few items on the net. The fact that the net is stretchable makes it perfect for storing a considerable amount of items. The kayaks also feature inflatable seats.
The seats come with brackets. They allow you to adjust the seat in a way that you feel much comfortable. At the sides of each seat of the kayak is neoprene elbow guards. Well, that implies more comfort.
The kayak comes with four bottom fins. The fins play a great role in ensuring the maneuverability and stability of the kayak. They also allow the kayaker to paddle effortlessly. The kayaks also have 3 air chambers that allow inflating the kayak with air. The chambers will hold pressure all day. Therefore, you will have enough time to continue your adventure. You don’t have to worry about the kayak being deflated at any point in your adventure.
6. Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
You can fully inflate in within 5 minutes with a hand pump and deflate it within 10 minutes or less, which means faster getting in and out of the water.
Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak backpack itself turns into a comfortable seat with a backrest, which allows for resting after an hour of paddling and for enjoying the view.
While you’re on the water, your paddling experience will be better, too, because your legs, back and arms have sufficient room to move. You can use the multi-position footrest to change your position, such as between hard paddling and idling on the water.
The cargo net at the kayak’s front can be used for stowing your food and gear items while the cup holder allows for easy access to your refreshing drink. You can also store your gear in a storage area.
This is a durable inflatable kayak made from 21-gauge PVC material suitable for rugged lake use although it shouldn’t be used for whitewater rafting, among other rough conditions.
You have the benefit of the kayak’s tarpaulin bottom as added protection from punctures. You don’t have to worry about sinking when one of the multiple air chambers is punctured – your kayak will still float for as long as the other chambers are intact.
7. Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak Review
You can either go on a solo kayaking trip or take a friend along – the middle seat can be removed or added, respectively, which I find to be such a great feature.
The 22-gauge PVC material is known for its durability against common puncture threats, such as small rocks, while the semi-rigid I-beam floor adds rigidity to the entire frame.
The Airtight System reduces the risks of sinking although you must still avoid things on the water that can puncture the kayak’s surface. The multiple air chambers also reduce the risks of sinking because the kayak will stay afloat even when one air chamber is punctured. You should have enough time to get to shore and repair the damage. Your chances of being too wet while on the water can be reduced, too, because of the spray covers.
Full inflation can be achieved within 5-10 minutes with either a hand pump or a foot pump. Once on the water, the kayak can carry up to 400 pounds of weight for both the rider and his gear. You will find its inflated dimensions to be spacious even when there are two people on board.
8. Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak
Your inflatable kayak can also quickly deflate after use, be stored in its backpack system, and stowed into your car’s trunk.
Durability being the name of the game in Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak, you will be satisfied with its 24-gauge PVC material and quality construction suitable for rugged use in lakes and rivers.
But use in rapids, rough rivers, and oceans isn’t recommended for this kayak. The polyester cover and tarpaulin bottom add to its overall durable nature in relatively calm waters.
You can easily pack your provisions in the kayak. You can bring along a tent, a pump, an extra paddle, three liters of water, and a day bag with your food and clothes in the kayak, as well as float a filled dry sack and extra Class I PFD behind it.
You will love the kayak’s highly responsive quality in terms of maneuvering it. You can easily paddle backward, turn on a dime, navigate waves, and slide into shore with skillful paddling. You don’t have to worry about carrying a fully inflated kayak to shore because of its carry handles.
9. Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
All of these features mean that the kayak has higher than average resistance against punctures from sharp objects like rocks, branches, and roots.
You also have the peace of mind that the multiple air chambers will make the kayak float even when one of them has a puncture.
The inflation and deflation times are minimal – just 5 to 10 minutes – because of the double threaded Boston valve on each air chamber. You can easily push it into the water and pull it out of the water, a task that can be done by a single person although your two fellow kayakers may also want to assist.
In case you’re kayaking alone, you should put weights (e.g., your gear) at the front and back while you sit in the middle for better balance. The kayak handles well on the water, too.
You can track well in a straight line, thanks to its directional strakes and tracking fin, while enjoying its overall stability even in windy and wave-y conditions. Your back can get a rest after an hour of active paddling because of the kayak seat’s backrest.
10. Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
When not in use, you can pack it in its carry bag. When you want to use it, just inflate using a foot pump, wait for 5-10 minutes for full inflation, and drag it to the water. You can store several days’ worth of camping supplies in its three storage areas at the port, starboard, and floor, as well as float a bag behind it. You can take a buddy for the ride although it can also be used for solo trips on lakes, rivers, and even whitewater rapids.
But a word of caution: You should limit its use to Class II whitewater for safety purposes. Your trip should be relatively safe from punctures – the material has been tested resistant against dog claws – because of the I-beam construction, 33-millimeter Polykrylar hull, and high-frequency welded seams. The kayak comes with two 8-foot paddles, a foot pump, two kayak seats, and a storage bag.
11. Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
The 18-gauge PVC material, tarpaulin bottom, and nylon cover provide a strong and sturdy frame that can withstand rugged lake and river use.
You can use it for hours on end while waiting for your bug to catch and it will perform well.
Punctures are inevitable in inflatable kayaks but the multiple air chambers in the Colorado ensures that the kayak will stay afloat even if an air chamber has a puncture. The Airtight System keeps the air in while the double threaded valve allows for quick inflation and deflation.
Since this is a fishing kayak, you can expect plenty of fisherman-friendly features. These include the Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders for hands-free fishing, such as when you’re trawling the line, and the Sevylor trolling motor fittings, which come in handy when you want to expand your fishing adventures.
Storage isn’t a problem, too. You can stow your gear including your fishing items, food and water, and other pieces of equipment in the mesh storage pockets and D-rings, aside from the standard towing behind your kayak. You can adjust the seat to fit your body frame or your fishing style, too.
12. Advanced Elements StraitEdge Inflatable Kayak
You will experience improved tracking ability, especially in open water conditions while its self-bailing design makes it great for white water, too. Your rides will be more comfortable because of the padded seat and breathable foam mesh back support. Your peace of mind will increase, too, because of the heavy-duty material combining the sturdiness of PVC and tarpaulin, which are tested for high puncture resistance. You can ride it as you will a hard-shell kayak but perhaps with more care since even a puncture-resistant inflatable kayak is no match for jagged rocks.
This is just as easy to inflate and deflate using a hand or foot pump. Despite its size, you can easily drag it in and out of the water, fold it into its smallest size, and store it in its carry bag. You can store several days’ worth of supplies, too, in and out of the kayak without feeling like it’s a drag.
13. Elkton Outdoors Comorant 2 Person Kayak
You will love that it can be inflated with a foot pump within 10 minutes as well as deflated, packed and stored in your car in less than 30 minutes.
Once fully inflated, its 118x35x16 inches dimensions provide enough room for even a tall person while its streamlined design allows for easy gliding over the water.
You will be safe when in the kayak, thanks to its 18-gauge, rip-resistant PVC material – even your standard hooks cannot easily rip through it! You have double-sided oars with three aluminum sections with a paddle at each end, which can be clipped to the kayak’s side. You can quickly disassemble the oars for storage because of their twist-and-lock design.
You can easily store most of your fishing gear in the kayak’s storage pockets. The 4 built-in mesh gear pockets can hold smaller gear like fly boxes. The carry handles located at the fore, aft and sides make portage easy. The D rings are great for attaching spray shields, gear and anchor, among others.
Other accessories included are two adjustable seats, six rod holders (i.e., two vertical and four trolling), a foot pump, and a repair kit. The repair kit will come in handy when the kayak becomes punctured by sharp objects while the repair itself should be easy – the three separate air chambers can be removed for simple and quick repairs. Once deflated, you can pack the kayak into its carry bag.
How To Choose The Best Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable kayaks are a dime a dozen so choosing the best one can be overwhelming. You have to consider all of these factors to make the right choice in the great inflatable kayak and, in the process, enjoy your kayaking adventures more.
Materials
Choose kayaks with thick PVC, vinyl, and tarpaulin materials, which may or may not be combined with a semi-rigid frame for added stability. You want to ensure that the kayak will not be easily punctured by sand, gravel and debris when inflating, deflating, and dragging it across the shore and when paddling it on water. The thicker the material, the more puncture-resistant it will likely be.
But since punctures can happen event to the greatest inflatable kayaks, you should check that the material can also be easily repaired. A patch kit, which is usually included in your purchase, will come in handy although you may want to bring a spare kit just in case.
Performance
Select kayaks that users have reviewed as being stable, nimble and maneuverable. For stability, you should look at both the overall design and the hull design to determine whether the kayak will stay upright most of the time. In general, the wider its dimensions, the more stable the kayak will be, especially when the pontoon sides are larger and the floor is very rigid.
For maneuverability, you should consider your kayaking goals – where do you want to go, what do you want to do, and what the environmental conditions are. Keep in mind that a fishing kayak will be designed differently than a touring kayak, which will affect their respective maneuverability.
A rule of thumb: The shorter it is, the quicker its response. The slimmer and longer it is, the faster it will paddle. You can take this rule of thumb into account when choosing between, say, a fishing and a touring kayak.
Our friends Outside Television presented a show on an inflatable kayak. This video can clear you how to choose an inflatable kayak and what type of thing you have to check before choosing.
Weight Of The Kayak And Weight Capacity
You want a lightweight inflatable kayak that can actually be carried in a carry bag by a single person. But you also want a kayak with a high weight limit, such as 500 pounds for a two-person kayak,
especially since you have to take along your basic supplies.
The weight capacity of the kayak will also determine the number of gear that you can take along on your trip. Be sure not to overload your kayak as tipping over is a risk here.
Comfort
You will likely be kayaking for at least an hour, perhaps even half a day when you’re fishing and touring at the same time. You should then look for comfort-related features, such as adjustable seats with backrest, adjustable footrest, and easy-to-access cargo gear for your food and drinks. And don’t forget to buy fishing sunglasses for you. It keeps your eye safe.
Other Considerations Include:
- Sturdy paddles
- Easy inflation and deflation
- Easy folding into its carry bag
- Sufficient storage space for your gear, paddles, and supplies
FAQs
a) Will I Sink If My Inflatable Kayak Leaks?
It is very hard for an inflatable kayak to sink. Most models come with 3 air chambers that are separate from each other. Therefore, if there is a leak, it is probably on one of the air chambers. That implies that the other air chambers will still be intact. If the leak is small, the pressure will still give you time to get back to the shores.
b) Which Is The Best Pump For Inflating An Inflatable Kayak?
You should use just a standard foot pump. The fact that using it is straightforward to make inflation fast and easy. A standard foot pump will not cause pain after inflating. An electric pump will also work perfectly. However, it is a bit costly than a standard pump but inflating with it is just effortless.
c) Which Is The Best Way To Store My Inflatable Kayak?
Storing is one of the activities involved in the maintenance of your kayak. Since maintenance can affect the durability of the kayak, you should focus on proper maintenance. You should store the kayak in dry conditions. Also, ensure that you don’t expose the kayak to direct sunlight. Ensure that you deflate the kayak before storing it.
d) Are Inflatable Kayaks Durable?
The durability of an inflatable kayak will depend on the brand and make the material. A kayak made from premium quality materials is very durable. The construction also has a lot to add to the durability of the kayak. However, most kayaks are made with a lot of keenness. You can never bargain about their durability.
e) What Inflatable Kayak Size Do I Need?
This depends on the users’ preference. You should determine where you want to use the kayak. For river kayaking, and shallow water kayaking, shorter kayaks can be the best. Longer kayaks perform perfectly for oceans and lakes. Also, longer kayaks are the best models for users who want to go fishing.
f) Is An Inflatable Kayak Worth It?
To answer this question, many people get confused about the fact. Some people always think about or prioritize the indemnity, the long-lasting service, the chemicals which are used to make inflatable kayaks.
However, inflatable kayaks are being innovative day by day. Scientists are adding some updated features and high-quality elements to fight against any kinds of calamities to face. So there is no worry. It is worth it for fun and other purposes.
g) Is An Inflatable Kayak Good For Beginners?
The answer is yes. An inflatable kayak is good for beginner kayakers. As a beginner, there is always a need to experience some things and know some kinds of tactics.
Using an inflatable kayak for the beginning can help you to move fast and to cope up with the water.
And also can help you to teach yourself paddling and other important techniques. So, there is a big yes to experience the inflatable kayak for beginners.
h) Can You Carry On Your Loving Whelp In An Inflatable Kayak?
For some people, it seems funny to them. But it is not funny for those who have their pet, and that is a dog. Some specialists or experienced ones can easily suggest you take with your dog in an inflatable kayak.
It is not dangerous. As you can easily paddle and maintain some rules and regulations regarding kayaking, you can easily kayak with your dog and enjoy the moment for the best.
i) Can I Leave My Inflatable Kayak Inflated?
You can easily maintain the process of maintaining an inflatable kayak. It is so easy to maintain, and it requires a smaller space to keep it.
But you should not leave your inflatable kayak for long in an inappropriate way. It will cause your inflatable kayak to be damage and will not last long.
So you have to make sure to care for your inflatable kayak properly and have to store your inflatable kayak in a safe place and clean it out once a week. That should be helpful for your inflatable kayak to keep for a long-lasting experience.
j) Is An Inflatable Kayak Slow?
Some people always want to know the question first because of their personal needs. But an inflatable kayak is indeed slower than other hardshell kayaks.
It can not give you the experience of reaching out the total speed of kayaking and paddling, where you can get a better experience from the other hardshell kayaks.
So it is not for the pro kayakers who love to kayak. But it’s speed is suitable for the beginning experience. It can help you to learn paddling and kayaking.
Final Verdict
I recommended all of these inflatable kayaks because of their proven stability, durability and versatility, as well as their ease in inflation anddeflation, sufficient storage space, and useful accessories. No matter which one you choose, you will find that it will meet your needs and wants in an inflatable kayak for recreational use.
You can use it on lakes, rivers and even shallow seas preferably in calm conditions although it can also withstand a little wind and wave.
Your final choice in the best inflatable kayak will likely be influenced by your budget. While most of these inflatable kayaks have affordable prices, a few are on the high-end side because of their larger size, a higher number of features, or greater maneuverability, among other factors.
