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Finding an inflatable kayak best suited to your needs is surely a difficult task. We know as we have been through the labor ourselves.
To help you out, our team has gone through research and trials to find the best inflatable kayaks in the market.
In this post, we have assembled a list of the best inflatable kayaks, buyer’s guide and FAQs section to assist you find the best inflatable kayak available.
First of all, let’s look at the top 3 options:
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| Streamlined, having a sturdy and artistic design, easy-to-paddle, and durable at an affordable price. It might be your best shot for a two-person kayak. | Strong-body, easily inflatable, splash-skirting, and easy-to-dry with adjustable seats. Ideal recreational and fishing kayak for families. | Best multi-person sports kayak. Spacious, maneuverable, and comfortable loaded with sporting accessories. |
Without further ado, let’s look into detailed reviews of all 10 kayaks individually.
Best Inflatable Kayak Reviews – Top 10 Reviews
#1 Best Inflatable Tandem Kayak – Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Review
If you’re looking for a sporty-looking, sturdily designed, recreational tandem inflatable kayak, this might be the best option. The company has invested fairly in its looks.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak has a streamlined design and a compact structure that makes it swift and easy-to-paddle in water. Our team has found it best performing in terms of durable structure and damage-resistance.
Intex K2 inflatable kayak is a great and affordable tandem inflatable kayak we were able to find. All necessary kayak accessories are in the deal.
Intex K2 isn’t advisable for professional sports, but it does fairly well for habitual sports in water.
Features of Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
- Includes two 86-inch thick aluminum paddles with high-output inflating motors
- Chief material: Vinyl
- Dimensions are 30 by 15 by 138
- Upper weight limit: 400 pounds.
- Get two Aluminum-handle paddles with it
- Repair patch kit included
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Overall, Intex K2 is comfortable and easy to use in water. You should get it for fishing and recreational kayaking.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
The best inflatable tandem kayak is Intex Challenger K2 Kayak because of its portability, sporty-design, damage-resistance, and lightweight.
#2 Best three-Person Inflatable Kayak – Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak Review
Sevylor Big Bason is a canoe-type best inflatable kayak with a seating capacity for 3 people. It is one of the best recreational kayaks to get for your family.
Hard PVC materials used in its body and bottom support its larger size. Multiple air chamber structures are employed, which avoids punctures to cause disruption in water.
Our team found it easy to use. Double threatened Boston valve is used which allows faster deflation and inflation.
Sevylor Big Basin has an upper weight limit of 490 pounds. Spray covers are incorporated to avoid water splashes in whitewater.
You do not get paddles and high inflation pumps with the kayak so the company recommends these aluminum paddles for the specific model.
Features of Sevylor Big Basin three-Person Kayak
- Rugged PVC used as the body material
- Tarpaulin bottom
- Multiple air chambers
- Double threaded Boston Valves for inflation/deflation
- Spray covers to avoid splashes.
- Adjustable seats
- Get Carry handles with it
- Inflate kayak dimensions: 12 ft. 3 ft. x 3 ft.
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This kayak may not be the best option for sports but it is great for multi-person or family use.
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
The best three-person inflatable kayak is Sevylor Big Basin three-Person Kayak because of its portability, balanced structure and splash-avoiding features.
#3 Best Sports Inflatable Kayak – Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Review
Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Sports Kayak has a capacity for 3 people with a maximum weight capacity of 650 pounds. Our team found Sea Eagle 370 to be one of the best in terms of mobility, portability, and maneuverability in water.
What we like the most about Sea Eagle 370 is that the deflated kayak weighs 36 pounds which is quite a distinction from other 3-person kayaks. Multiple open & close and one-way drain valves make the draining quick and easy for Sea Eagle 370.
All necessary accessories are included. Two aluminum- shafted, double-bladed paddles make it apt for sports. Our team considers Sea Eagle 370to be one of the best choices for multi-person sports. The product also comes with a carry bag and high foot inflating pump.
Two skegs are used to enhance agility and maneuverability of the Sea Eagle 370 kayak. Considering all ends, the Sea Eagle 370 is advisable for sports purposes in water.
Features of Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak
- Maximum weight capacity: 690 pounds
- Designed for Class III whitewater
- Two asymmetrical aluminium-shafted pedals
- Accessories include a carry bag and a high foot pump
- Inflation Pressure: 1.1psi
- Get 5 deluxe valves for inflation/deflation
- 2 skegs joined with the bottom line
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Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak
The best sports inflatable kayak is Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak because of its sports-friendly and self-bailing features.
#4 Best Drop-Stitch Inflatable Kayak – Airhead Montana Kayak Review
Airhead Montana two-person Kayak is designed for vacationing, cruising and camping use. Aligned to its goal, our team found it quite portable, handy, and easy to use in water.
The kayak is for use in lakes and moderate whitewater. It is compact and easy to inflate/deflate.
It’s body is enclosed in nylon drop-stitch covering and coated with UV and water-resistant paints. Its orange color makes it easily identifiable in the waters.
Neoprene elbow guards guarantee comfort while paddling. 6-D rings at the bow and stern secure gears. Overall, it ensures safety and utilization.
However, be prepared to buy useful accessories separately as they don’t come along with the package. This kayak may not be a great option for sports enthusiasts as factors like speed in water etc. are not addressed, but it’s a good choice for family adventures.
Features of Airhead Montana Kayak
- Multiple air chambers
- Body covered with 840-denier nylon
- Four neoprene elbow guards on sides
- Stretch net used in the bow
- Get 6 D-rings used to secure gear
- Orange colored
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Our team finds this product to be the best inflatable kayak for recreational purposes.
Airhead Montana Kayak
The best drop-stitch inflatable kayak is Airhead Montana Kayak because of its comfortability, ease of use, maneuverability, and bright colors.
#5 Best Balanced Inflatable Kayak – Freein Stand Up Paddle Board Inflatable with Kayak Conversion Review
Freein Stand Up Paddle Board with Kayak conversion is the best we were able to find in its kind. It can be easily converted to a kayak by clipping the seat to pre-installed anchors and adjusting the paddle handle.
The best thing about this product are the included accessories. Added dual-blade paddle, high inflating hand pump, repair kit, removable skeg, and backpack makes it a pretty good deal.
The kayak weighs 18 pounds without accessories and 25 pounds with them. For a single person looking for a SUP and kayak, it’s one of the best pieces.
The customer reaction to its maneuverability is good. Our team found it great for kayaking and vacationing. it’s also easy to inflate, deflate, and carry.
Features of Freein Stand Up Paddle Board Inflatable with Kayak Conversion
- Convertible from stand up board to kayak
- Swappable paddle
- Weighs 25 pounds with accessories
- 31 in. wide body
- Get pre-installed anchor
- Dual-blade paddle and high inflating hand pump included
- Repair kit, removable skeg, and backpack in the package
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Our team considers it best for low and non-splashy waters. However, it may not be a good choice for sports and choppy water.
Freein Stand Up Paddle Board Inflatable with Kayak Conversion
The best balanced inflatable kayak is Freein Stand Up Paddle Board Inflatable with Kayak Conversion because of its compact size, lightweight, and easy conversion.
#6 Best Quickly Inflating Inflatable Kayak – Driftsun Voyager Review
Driftsun Voyager can be a suitable pick if you have a good budget and are looking for all the good features in one place. What we love the most about this product is that it takes less than 5 minutes to inflate.
It has a two-person capacity while weighing 26 pounds only. Its compact size, portability, ease of use and paddling makes it one of the best kayaks in water.
PVC bottom provides strength and agility to the bottom. 840D coated nylon oxford fabric drop-stitch covers the body, making it safe from wear and tear.
Our team finds its pointed bow and rocket profile helpful for good speed, balance, and maneuverability in both calm and choppy water.
Almost all possible accessories are included: padded seats, aluminum paddles with grip handles, high inflating hand pump, tracking fin, and travel bag. However, some users experienced difficulty in drying out the kayak.
Features of Driftsun Voyager
- Under 5 minutes of inflation time
- Dimensions:10ft. x 35in. x 16in.
- Weighs 27 pounds
- 840D coated nylon oxford fabric cover
- PVC Tarpaulin bottom
- Rocket profile and pointed bow
- EVA padded seats
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Overall, Driftsun Voyager is a great option if you are looking for an inflatable fishing kayak or just one for sports and adventures. If it fits in your budget, you should go for it.
Driftsun Voyager Kayak
The best quickly inflating kayak is Driftsun Voyager kayak because of its sports-friendly features, well-loaded kit, and portability.
#7 Best Maneuverable Inflatable Kayak – ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak Review
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak is a 1-person, compact-designed, inflatable kayak. It has an aluminum skeleton that shapes the stern and bow. The structure makes the Advanced Elements kayak maneuverable, speedy and helps in tracking.
3 layers of cover increases its weight a bit, but also makes it highly puncture-resistant. Our team found Advanced Elements kayak seats and supports to be comfortable for hours of paddling. Skegs tracking helps beginners maneuver smoothly.
This kayak looks very similar to hard-shell kayaks. It has rubber handles to carry it around.
However, portability can be a problem for some and it takes a little more time to inflate. This kayak is not advisable for whitewaters but works alright for calm ones.
Features of Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
- Built-in aluminum skeleton
- Weighs 36 pounds
- Maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds
- 3 layer rough drop-stitch cover
- Padded seats with high supports
- Built-in storage area
- Repair patch kit and carry bag included
- Dimensions: 10 ft. 32in. 15ft.
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Overall, the kayak is compact-looking and smooth-sailing but can be a bit difficult to carry around.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
The best maneuverable inflatable kayak is Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame because of its compact size, maneuverability, and puncture-resistant cover.
#8 Best Portable Inflatable Kayak – Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak Review
Sevylor Quikpak K5 Kayak has a rugged construction of 24-gauge PVC. Soft-plastic bottom and multiple-layered polyester cover make it resistant to punctures.
The kayak is ideal for portability and compactness. It can be folded into a backpack. Also, it has a quick inflation time of 5 minutes. Multiple air chamber structures are also there.
Its pointed bow and streamlined structure allows it to be easily maneuverable. Although not ideal for sports, it can do a good job of vacationing, fishing, and camping.
An asymmetrical paddle, and repairing kit are included. However, our team found the paddle design somewhat inconvenient for paddling. It can be hard to drain water from.
Features of Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak
- 5 minutes setup time
- Foldable into a backpack
- 24-gauge rugged PVC construction
- Tarpaulin bottom with polyester cover
- Multiple air chambers mold
- Double lock for easy inflation/deflation
- Spray covers to block splashes of water
- Storage area
- Pointed bow and stern
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Overall, this kayak may not be perfect but it can be a good pick for recreational purposes.
Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak
The best portable inflatable kayak is Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak because of its compact body, comfortability, and portable design
#9 Best for Safety Inflatable Kayak – Ztot0p 2-Person Kayak Review
Ztot0p 2-Person Kayak is a fluffy looking, bright-colored kayak having almost all desirable features of an inflatable kayak. Uniquely enough, it has inflatable seats which turn out to be quite comfortable. Backrests are also added to the model.
The body cover is of heavy-duty rugged Vinyl. Three air chambers are spread wide apart to ensure the security form puncture-caused-accidents. It has a very pointed bow and stern structure which makes it quite maneuverable in water.
The kayak itself weighs 30 pounds and can hold up to 400 pounds. Two ropes and grab lines make it easy to seize and carry. Skegs employed help it to speed and stay balanced. The Boston valve helps ease inflation and deflation.
The package includes two 92-inch paddles, a repairing kit, and a foot pump. The kayak also has a storage space. Our team found it a bit less spacious for two people. Also, it’sn’t advisable for whitewater.
Features of Ztot0p 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
- Vinyl used as the primary cover material
- Maximum weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Inflatable seats with back support
- Boston valves
- Three air chambers
- Dimension: 138 in. x 42 in.
- Pointed bow and stern
- Blue color
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Overall, Ztot0p 2-Persons best Inflatable Kayak is advisable for recreational purposes but not for sports.
Ztot0p 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
The best for safety inflatable kayak is Ztot0p 2-Person Inflatable Kayak because of its comfortable seats, durabile structure, and high maneuverability.
#10 Best 1 Person Kayak – Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Review
Intex K1 Challenger Kayak is one of the best options if you’re on a budget due to its affordable price. It’s made of a welded metal skeleton encased by a vinyl cover. The kayak has bright green color making it easily identifiable in the sea.
It weighs 27 pounds and can hold up to 220 pounds. Our team found the cockpit structure comfortable. Cargo net provides space to store extra gear and other items. It is also easy to transport due to grab lines being on both sides.
Intex K1 Challenger Kayak has an inflatable seat with back support that makes it comfortable and easy for paddling. Removable skeg at the bottom helps with flow. Our team found it good for kayaking in both calm and wavy waters.
This kayak comes with an asymmetrical paddle, a repair patch kit, and a hand pump. There are no footholds and the seat isn’t stiff. However, at this price, this product is a pretty smart purchase.
Features of Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
- Welded metal skeleton
- Rugged vinyl cover
- Cargo storage net
- Weighs 27 pound
- Maximum weight capacity: 220 pounds
- Inflatable seats
- 84 in. paddles, repair kit, and a hand pump included
- Major color: Green
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If you’re looking for an affordable and well-featured 1-person kayak, this is your best shot.
Intex K1 Challenger Kayak
The best 1-person inflatable kayak is Intex K1 Challenger Kayak because of its affordability, comfort, and user-friendliness.
Buyer’s Guide
While searching for the best kayak out there, you must realize that a single product isn’t the best for all. So, how can you then decide which one to get?
Well, all products are valuable for different needs.
Before you start your search for a suitable inflatable kayak, it’s important to be clear about what exactly you’re looking for and how you intend on using the kayak.
Firstly, you need to know why in the first place you’re buying an inflatable kayak rather than a hard-shell one.
Secondly, you need to face the questions:
- How much weight capacity the boat should have?
- What is your price range? What are your desirable features?
- What things do you want to avoid?
We have answered all these questions and more in the next sections. Let’s look at the various differences, features, and factors to help you make the right purchase:
1. Inflatable Kayak vs Hard-shell Kayak
Inflatability is the most apparent difference between inflatable kayaks and hard-shell kayaks. Major differences in inflatable and hard-shell kayaks are:
- Manufacturing Material
If you’re looking for light and durable material, an inflatable kayak is your go because of its damage-resistant plastic material. Hard-shell kayaks are generally synthesized from wood, heavy plastic, or composite substances. Whereas inflatable kayaks are made of non-rigid plastic materials.
- Weight
If you’re in search of light weight, an inflatable kayak should be your choice. Due to the use of wood or rigid substances, 1-person hard-shell kayaks weigh almost double (50 pounds) of inflatable kayaks that, depending on the weight capacity , weigh from 25 to 36 pounds.
1-person inflatable kayaks weigh usually around 25 pounds, two-person inflatable kayaks weigh around 32 pounds, and three-person kayaks weigh around 36 pounds. The weights also vary depending on the models.
- Portability and Transportation
Inflatable kayaks are the most portable because of their collapsible structure. Due to their higher weights and rigid structure, hard-shell kayaks are quite difficult to carry, transport, and store. They can’t easily fit in your car’s back or be carried in hand or be folded in a duffel bag either.
On the other hand, inflatable kayaks are mostly light-weight, making them easy to carry. Certain models of these kayaks are also collapsable, making them easy to store and transport. As obvious, portability is their most desirable feature.
- Safety and Maneuverability
If you’re looking for a safe kayak for deep oceans, a hard-shell kayak would be a better choice. In calm lake waters, whitewater, or sea waters, hard-shell and inflatable kayaks do almost an equal job. But in whitewater, a hard-shell kayak is considered more suitable and safe.
Hard-shell kayaks are also considered more apt for sports. Their structure and material are conducive to speed and maneuverability. This is the reason why hard-shell kayaks are used and recommended by sports enthusiasts.
- Weight-Capacity
If you’re looking for high weight-capacity, inflatable kayaks are better. Because of their lower air density, they are more stable, balanced, and can handle more weight than hard-shell kayaks.
Different inflatable kayaks can hold weight from 200 to 600 pounds. Whereas, most of the hard-shell kayaks have an upper limit of 400 pounds.
- Costs
Inflatable kayaks are generally cheaper than hard-shell kayaks due to their modern and cheap material.
Normal inflatable kayaks range from $150 to $700. On the contrary, hard-shell kayaks range from three hundred to several thousand dollars.
So, what is the better option?
Though hard-shell kayaks are well-suited for sports and professional kayaking, inflatable kayaks are much more suitable for recreation purposes due to their portability.
2. Desirable features of an Inflatable Kayak
Here we have collected some qualities that next time you should make sure in your kayak regardless of your likings and needs.
- Lightweightedness
The primary lead of inflatable kayaks over hard-shell kayaks is their lightweightedness. However, in the models of kayaks that we tested, weights for the same weight-capacities varied a lot.
Our team advises you to buy kayaks as lightweight as possible. In the best case, a 1-person kayak should weigh around 25 pounds, a two -person should weigh around 32 pounds and a 3-person kayak should weigh around 37 pounds.
Light weight makes a kayak easy to transport.
- Portability
Portability depends on the dimensions and compactness of the kayak. Next time you shouldn’t buy a kayak that can’t fit in your vehicle or can’t be stored with ease. New kayak models offer collapsibility which means that they can be deflated and folded into a backpack.
Some models have metal frames supporting their structures. They consume relatively larger space and are stiff in structure but they do have their advantages. However, if you’re low on space, you should look for other models.
- Maneuverability
Maneuverability is the quickness and efficiency of a kayak in turning around by paddle strokes. Maneuverability depends on the length, bottom material, and flatness of the bottom of the kayak.
It’s a chiefly sought-after feature in sports kayak and also helps in recreational kayaks. You should avoid concave-bottom kayaks. Don’t worry though, there aren’t many models with a concave bottom.
- Self-bailing
When you’re kayaking, water getting in the kayak is a guaranteed happening. Self-bailing kayaks have holes in the cockpit which allow the water to flow out of the kayak. In bucket-boat kayaks, you have to bail out water on your own.
Undoubtedly, it’s a great feature to have. However, our team found that a few kayaks aren’t self bailing, so next time you should be mindful of that.
- Accessories
Most of the companies include accessories in the package. These accessories include a paddle set, inflating hand pump, repair kit, and removable skegs. Our team found that for some models, the package doesn’t include some or all accessories.
It’s better to buy a model in which you can get everything in a single place. If you want to buy a kayak without accessories, you can buy them from the store recommended by the seller but it will cost you more.
- Comfortability
Before buying a kayak, you should always thoroughly inspect it for comfortability. The seating should be soft and cozy. Inflatable seating is advisable. Seats should be stiff at their place and movable seats are usually uncomfortable.
You should also look for foot-rest and elbow rests. The kayak should be spacious enough to hold you at ease. In the case of multi-people kayaks, our team has come to the space problem quite often. You should be mindful of that.
3. Customized Features
While looking for an inflatable kayak, you should know that no model is perfect. Every model has its ups and downs. Above mentioned features were those desirable for every kayak but here we have gathered some features that specifically depend upon your needs.
- Capacity
Inflatable kayaks come in a variety of weight capacities ranging from 100 pounds to 500 pounds. A 150-pounds weight capacity kayak can accommodate up to 1 person, that of 300-pounds up to 2 people, and up to 450-pounds can hold up to 3 adults.
If you’re planning to go solo, a one-person kayak is your deal. If you have a partner, a 2-person kayak will work great for you. And if you’re family (with kids), a three-person kayak should be your first choice.
You can also buy multiple kayaks depending upon your budget and preference.
- Sports or Recreational
Some models of inflatable kayaks are designed especially for sports or professional kayaking. Others may include inflatable fishing kayaks or kayaks for vacationing, camping, cruising, sailing, etc. Models have structural changes depending upon their type.
Sports kayaks can be difficult for beginners. Recreational kayaks are easy to use but may not have sports-friendly features and are usually not advisable for whitewater.
A few kayaks may serve both purposes, though they usually are expensive.
- Seating
Seating can be made of different materials. Some are of soft foam, others may be inflatable. Our team found inflatable seating more comfortable and supportive in paddling. But inflatable seating isn’t stiff.
Some models also have elbow and foot-rest which increase comfortability. You should check them as well as they are a great plus.
- Dimensions
We observed that a major complaint the customers were having was the size of the kayaks. If you have relatively high height and weight, you should look for a wide and spacious kayak.
Some people also love the compactness, others may like some extra space. Depending upon your preferences, make sure you get an appropriately-sized product for yourself.
- Structure
Some inflatable kayaks have welded metal structures that support them and give a sturdy look. Others have a collapsable fluffy body. Compactness can play an important role in transportation and carrying.
Few of the mentioned models can be collapsed into a bag, while others have stiff structures. If you have minimal room for transportation, collapsible kayaks will be a better option for you.
And if you like dandy structures and have enough space for transportation, you should go for the structured one.
In some kayaks, the metal frame can be separated from the inflatable part rendering it easy to carry.
- Color
Though color scarcely has any practical importance, they can be a deciding factor because of personal tastes. Some colors also help increase the visibility of the kayak in the sea.
Most of the kayaks we know have durable light-orange, dark-blue, sky-blue, light-green, and blue and white colors. These depend purely on a person’s choice, so we will leave you with it.
- Storage Space in the Kayak
Storage compartments tend to be an important feature to consider. Families usually require more storage space.
Also, more storage is required for fishing and sports. Some kayaks also include cargo nets and duffel bags which can help store different kinds of goods. You should also consider dry storage availability for foods and other wettable goods.
- Sit-in or Sit-on-top
Sit-in kayaks have an enclosed cockpit area to sit in while sit-on-top kayaks are open like boats. Both have their sets of ups and downs. Sit-inside kayaks keep your lower body warmer and dry. You can use rod holders in it.
Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to get out in the water. Depending on which kind of waters you’re kayaking and what you find comfortable, you should choose between sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks.
Both give almost similar results in terms of stability, maneuverability, and balance.
- Site of use
The most relevant question while selecting a kayak is: Where are you going to sail it? Most of the designs are specified for use in either calm or choppy waters.
Material, design, structure, and dimensions of the kayak vary depending on which waters they are to be used in. Normally, recreational kayaks are best suited for lakes, near-beaches, and other calm waters.
On the other hand, sports kayaks work well for rivers, oceans, and other choppy waters.
4. Parts and Accessories for Inflatable Kayaks
The body of a kayak consists of several body parts and also requires several accessories to function properly.
- Cockpit
For inflatable kayaks, the cockpit refers to the area from the bow of the kayak back to the start of the seating. it’s the area where you sit. Sit-inside kayaks have an enclosed cockpit area whereas sit-on-top kayaks have an open cockpit.
In sit-in kayaks, the boundary or lip of the large hole that leads to the cockpit area is referred to as the coaming of the cockpit. Rod holders are fitted above the cockpit. It also includes bow and stern.
- Seating and Footrests
The seating of an inflatable kayak is mostly removable. A backrest can also be used with the seat. It provides more support. Footrests are placed within the cockpit. Some kayaks also include elbow rests.
Seating is the most important part of a kayak. Make sure that is comfortable and helps to paddle. The back of the seat shouldn’t move around much. It can cause discomfort. If durable footrests are not included, you can use a duffel bag or other carry bag as footrests.
- Air Chamber System and Inflation Valves
Normally, inflatable kayaks consist of three air chambers. If one of them gets punctures, others will help to avoid accidental circumstances. The durable air chambers are covered with two or three layers of heavy-duty plastic.
Generally, a Boston air valve is used for inflation and deflation. If the air chambers of your kayak get punctured, you can patch them using the included repair patch kit. Before going kayaking, always make sure that the air chamber system is in good shape
- Storage Compartments and Deck Rigging
Most of the kayaks include dry storage compartments to store wettable items. Cargo nets and cockpit can also be used to store fish, equipment, and other items.
Durable deck rigging is long laces on the roof of the cockpit that can be used to fit some items in it or gripping the kayak while handling it.
- Sprayskirts and Drain hole
Spray skirts are light-weighted, plastic made skirt-like clothes to keep the kayak’s inner body dry from the splashing water.
Drain holes are holes in the cockpit of a kayak that help to bail out the water that has gotten in the cockpit of the kayak.
- Drop-Skegs and Rudders
Drop-skegs are used mostly in sports kayaks. They help the kayak to sail in a straight direction in windy conditions.
Rudders have almost the same purpose but it can also pivot from one side to the other. Rudders are mounted on the back of the stern.
FAQs
1. How much does an inflatable kayak cost?
Price ranges of kayaks vary widely depending on their weight limits and quality. Normally, you can find 1-person kayaks at prices as low as 150$, tandem kayak at prices as low as 250$, and three-person kayaks at prices as low as 350$.
The prices don’t have an upper limit. As you go up in the price table, more features, better materials, and accessories are added to the deal.
Optimally, we advise you to buy in ranges of 350$-500$, 500$-750$, and 650$-900$ for 1-person, 2-person, and three-person kayaks respectively.
2. Are inflatable kayaks safe?
Yes, surely. Best inflatable kayaks have rough and firm material, multi-airbag systems, and balanced structure are considered as safe as any other kayak. But in harsh conditions like strong wind and wavy waters, you need to be very careful while paddling.
Do check if the kayak has a multi-airbag system and a firm seat while buying. As a general rule, inflatable kayaks do good in calm waters, but hard-shell kayaks are considered safer in whitewaters. Also, don’t forget to wear life jackets.
3. How durable inflatable kayaks are?
Inflatable kayaks are quite durable. They have a multi-layer rugged body aimed to last longer. Most of the kayaks have a puncture repair-kit included or you can buy it separately. These features make the kayak durable and to avoid wear and tear.
If you have bought a good-quality inflatable kayak, it can last as long as 5-10 years. But it depends more on how well you take care of it. Without proper maintenance, a kayak can degrade in a couple of years.
4. Are inflatable kayaks good for fishing?
Yes, an inflatable fishing kayak is one of the best ones. Inflatable kayaks were designed mainly for recreational purposes. They’re well-customized for fishing and vacationing. Inflatable fishing kayaks have a stable structure to allow standing in, elevated seating positions, and storage spaces for storing fish and fishing equipment.
Our team considers inflatable fishing kayak more well-functioning and advisable than hard-shell kayak for fishing. While buying a fishing kayak, you should check if the kayak is for fishing or not as that can be crucial.
5. How many people can sit in an inflatable kayak?
Different models of inflatable kayaks have different person capacities. Kayaks with a weight limit of 150-200 pounds can hold up to 1 adult, those with a weight capacity of 250- 350 pounds can hold up to 2 adults, and those with a weight capacity greater than 400 pounds can hold up to 3 adults.
For families, a 3-persons kayak can hold up to 2 adults and two kids. If you have more people, you can buy more than one kayak.
6. What materials are used to make inflatable kayaks?
A kayak is made of three parts: body cover, bottom, and (in some cases) metal structure. Body covers are usually made of heavy-duty PVC, rugged Vinyl, Hypalon, Nylon, or Nitrilon.
Kayak bottoms are usually made of tarpaulin – a synthetic puncture-resistant fabric. Some inflatable kayaks also include a metal frame to support their structure and shape. Usually, these metal structures are made by welding aluminum ribs.
7. Do inflatable kayaks have a lower speed than hard-shell kayaks?
Inflatable kayaks may have a lower speed than hard-shell kayaks. are designed mostly for recreational purposes. There are only a few models suitable for sports. In making sure of your safety and comfortability, the speed of the kayak is mostly compromised.
Whereas, hard-shell kayaks are naturally suitable for sports. So, yes, inflatable kayaks have a comparatively lower speed than hard-shell kayaks. Our team advises hard-shell kayaks if you’re looking for speed and stability.
8. Can inflatable kayaks be used in the ocean?
Yes and no. Inflatable kayaks can be sailed in oceans but they have limitations. They are manufactured mostly for calm waters like lakes and shores. Some models can be used in turbulent sea waters but handling them will require mastery of skills.
Our team doesn’t advise beginners to use inflatable kayaks in deep and choppy sea waters like oceans and rivers. Hard-shell kayaks can be a better option for deep oceans.
9. Are inflatable kayaks difficult to paddle?
It depends on where you are using inflatable kayaks. They have an inflated body and a lightweight. These features can make paddling difficult in windy and turbulent sea waters. But many new models have included several new features that help to keep it stable, balanced, and easy to maneuver.
Also, inflatable kayaks have comfortable seating than hard-shell kayaks which make them comfortable for paddling. Overall, hard-shell kayaks are easy to paddle in extreme weather conditions while inflatable kayaks are more comfortable to paddle.
10. Are inflatable kayaks hard to maintain?
No. In fact, an inflatable kayak is much easier to maintain than a hard-shell kayak.
Inflatable kayaks come with plastic bodies that aren’t easily damageable. And if the body gets damaged or airbags get punctured, you can quickly repair them by use of the repair kit. Most of the models have a repair kit included in the package. It’s also swift-to-dry and portable.
11. Do inflatable kayaks get punctured easily?
No. Inflatable kayaks are quite as safe and secure as any other type of kayaks. Most of the models have multi-layered body covers which help to avoid punctures. Also, a multi-airbag system used in most of them helps to avoid emergencies caused by punctures.
In case your kayak gets punctured, you can quickly patch them using a patch repair kit. We don’t see punctures as a big issue.
12. Are inflatable kayaks worth it?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for a comfortable, safe, easy-to-carry, and easy to use kayak, surely, inflatable kayaks worth your money. Their most admirable feature is their portability and lightweight.
They provide the best experience if you’re looking for a recreational kayak. You can rest assured of the durable structure, safety, high maneuverability, and good looks of inflatable kayaks.
13. Are inflatable kayaks difficult to dry out?
No, Inflatable kayaks aren’t difficult to dry out. Most of the models of kayaks are made of water-resistant material. They take a few minutes to dry out after getting out of the sea water.
You just need to deflate the kayak, remove the seats and other accessories and turn it upside down. After that, you can use a towel to wipe any leftover water.
14. Is kayaking difficult to learn?
No, unlike other water-sports, kayaking on flat or sea waters is quite easy to learn. You can paddle easily and aptly by a learning effort of a few hours. You will need to learn a few basic skills: how to grab the paddle, how to paddle a kayak, how to turn around.
You should always get awareness of the following:
- Your limits in the ocean
- Weather conditions
- Expected tides and currents
- Awareness of kayak rules and regulations
Flatwater kayaking is quite easy to learn but for kayaking in deep sea or whitewater, you will need months of learning and practice.
Final Verdict
After analyzing a variety of inflatable kayaks, our team concluded that Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is the best product in this category. Its durable material, streamlined body-structure, light-weight, high maneuverability, and above all affordable price make it stand out.
Intex K2 Challenger Kayak has a weight capacity of 400 pounds and can hold up to 2 people. it’s befitted for kayaking in calm and whitewater. You can get it for recreational as well as sports purposes.
For 1-person and three-person kayaks, we consider Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak and Sevylor Big Basin three-person Kayak as the best product. They are agile, portable, and easy to use.
