Best Inflatable Kayaks Reviewed – How To Choose the Best Inflatable Kayak for Your Needs

We are going to take a guess that you're here because you need help finding the best inflatable kayak. That's great, because we are here to give you a hand.

Kayaking is one activity that can be both fun and fulfilling.  Whether it’s the thrills of paddling through the Amazon River or tackling the white waters of Slovenia like some Indiana jones protégé, you can’t help but love the exhilarating sport. But then the thought of packing that oversized kayak on top of your vehicle every time can be a bit discouraging.

Lucky for you, the good people of science skipped lunch and sacrificed their playtime so we could enjoy the more convenient inflatable kayaks.

These modern inflatable kayaks are more efficient than ever. As the name suggests, they are inflatable, which means they can easily be deflated to fit inside a duffle bag or backpack.

And to settle your doubts, the answer is yes; they are still strong enough to withstand choppy waters. You see, they are constructed using high-quality material that is both UV and abrasion-proof. This keeps them safe from constant puncturing. Since they are filled with air, they are also really buoyant, which gives off the impression that you are sitting on the water.

But with so many different models popping up every day, getting a reliable kayak can be quite daunting. To help you in your quest, we have done the research and come up with a list of the best inflatable kayaks, ready for your next adventure.

Related: 5 Basic Steps for Paddling a Canoe (Many apply to kayaks too!)

Best Inflatable Kayak Reviews 2021

When choosing the right inflatable kayak, we understand that "best" is different for each person. For example, someone who just wants to go on a leisurely stroll down the river is not going to need the same type of kayak as someone who plans on going white water rafting on the rapids. However, if your budget allows it, getting one that is that strong certainly couldn't hurt!

For this reason, we have showcased a mix of inflatable kayaks at different price points, as well as in different styles. But rest assured, all of the brands we chose are highly rated by consumers, so you can trust that the other styles of kayaks they offer are just as good!

We also want to note that we chose to feature inflatable kayaks that we would consider to be in a price range that is affordable for most people.  However, if you are looking for a top of the line inflatable kayak (and can afford the price tag that can be over $1000), we recommend checking out the Sea Eagle 465 FastTrack Inflatable Kayak, the Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak Pro Angler Package, or one of Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayaks.

Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Review

The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak may very well be the most though out inflatable kayak out there. With its sleek, streamlined design, and fine aesthetics, the beauty of this fine boat only goes to show Intex recreation’s decades of experience with inflatable products. The yellow bumblebee looks sporty, fun, and good enough to live in. But the shouting color is not for beauty alone. In fact, it is purposely made like that to enhance visibility in case of an emergency.

On top of that, the Intex Explorers’ cockpit is exceptionally spacious, comfortably hosting two full-grown adults. Each inflatable seat has a backrest for enhanced comfort, and with 10 Feet 3 X 3 Feet X 1 Feet 8 Inch dimensions,  you both get enough leg room through the entire journey. Additionally, you have the option of removing the two seats to enjoy a lazy afternoon on the water with your companion while facing each other. The kayak even comes with a removable SKEG, which is known to enhance directional stability. It is also noteworthy that the kayak is best suited for smaller water bodies, performing optimally in mild rivers and lakes.

Pros

• Quite affordable
• Easy to set up
• Colorful, therefore, can easily be spotted

Cons

• The deflation process can get tedious
• The paddle is a little flimsy
• Users claim that the valves can be a little difficult to manage initially

Intex Challenger 1 Person Inflatable Kayak Review

Coming as another candidate from Intex’s Challenger series is the K1 Challenger Kayak. With its incredibly streamlined design, the bad boy almost looks like a rocket ship as it seamlessly cuts through the water. The material construction is welded and, therefore, quite durable. It is further backed by eye-catching graphics for extra safety when you out on the lake.  Since the K1 only harbors one person, it is maximized for comfort and space. The inflatable seat features an intuitive backrest and inflatable beam floors for a little extra stability.

But the good people at Intex went a little extra with this one. The little one-person boat has a pre-installed cargo net where you can store your gear. It comes inclusive of an 84-inch aluminum oar, a high output manual hand pump, a repair patch, and the much preferred rugged vinyl construction. At only 30 by 15 b 108 inches, the kayak is sleek by any standard, yet it will comfortably hold up to 220 pounds

Pros

• Wide enough and fairly deep for enhanced comfort
• Heavy-duty vinyl construction keeps it durable
• Has cargo netting for additional storage

Cons

• The dark gray on its coloring tends to make it a little hot
• There are no footholds
• Oars have joints which tend to create weak points

Intex Excursion Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak Review

When it comes to inflatable products, Intex products easily have a monopoly over the market. Therefore, it is no surprise to have the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak as another proud ambassador of the brand. Even before diving into all the good stuff that the kayak has in store for us, you’ll notice it has the word pro next to its name, so it’s only natural to expect extra as far as quality is concerned.

The super tough laminate PVC material used in in the construction of the Excursion Pro Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak  only attests to this. The material has this unique ability to be lightweight yet still really resistant to abrasion, sunlight, impact, oil, saltwater, and gasoline.

But the Intex folk didn’t take the term pro lightly; everything about this fine piece is professional level. By this, we are talking about high-pressure inflation, which offers more stability and rigidity. High-pressure spring-loaded valves that allow fast inflation and deflation. Not to mention the 2 removable skews that allow it to handle both deep and shallow water. The kayak also comes with 2 floor-mounted footrests, and for the fishing overs, you get 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders. If you have additional accessories, the kayak proves its worth by coming with adjustable mounting brackets with a carry bag and repair patch. The beast can hold as much as 400 pounds.

Pros

• Well-built
• Easy to deflate and inflate
• Lightweight and abrasion-resistant
• Spacious enough for two people

Cons

• Some users claim that the seat is uncomfortable
• A bit more costly than other Intex products

Freein 2 In 1 Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Kayak Review

The Freein Stand Up Paddle Board is a little more than just your average kayak. When it is not doing its kayak duties, the beautifully crafted tool doubles up as a stand-up paddleboard. You do this by easily unclipping the seat from its pre-installed anchors and swapping the blade for a paddle handle. This feature makes it is perfect for SUP boarding, kayaking, and even fishing.

With its 31” wide-body, the Freein SUP Kayak Combo provides all the good benefits of an all-around board. With this, you get better balance, maneuverability, and control. The top also has a pad that offers additional grip in wet conditions.

Other than that, the kayak is also exceptionally lightweight, and at less than 25 pounds when deflated, it’s relatively easy to move around with. It comes with a complete accessory kit, including a convertible blade floating paddle, a travel backpack, double action hand pump, a repair kit, and a 10/l coiled ankle leash.

Pros

• Can be used for kayaking and SUP boarding
• Has good balance and maneuverability
• Really lightweight and portable

Cons

• You might have to tighten the valve initially yourself
• The seat is a little flimsy, might not hold weight as you lean back

Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Review

Now, if you are looking to get a little alone time with just you and the water, then the Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Kayak is perfect for you. The Sevloy has the term quikpak to its name for a reason. With its iconic double lock valves, it will only take you 5 minutes to unpack this baby and have it up and running.  The easy to carry backpack system then intuitively transforms into a seat, thereby additionally saving on room.

The Sevylor also takes pride in its 24-gauge PVC construction, which makes it tough and stable enough for lake use and other rough conditions. The bottom is further backed by tarpaulin and a polyester cover to allow for more durable protection from punctures. And just to top it off, the kayak also has extra air chambers, so in case one is punctured, the kayak stays inflated. Additionally, its airtight system is one of the best in the game, guaranteeing a full proof anti-leak journey.

By the way, if you need an inflatable kayak for more than one person, Sevlor has those too!

Pros

• Easily inflatable and deflectable
• Has a really thick bottom
• Crazy comfortable

Cons

• Users claim that the paddle isn’t as comfortable to use
• Quite buoyant, so it doesn’t  cut through the water like a hard shell kayak
• A bit more costly than other inflatable kayaks

Best Inflatable Kayaks Buying Guide

In the age of social distancing, many people have grown accustomed to kayaking as a fun outdoor hobby. Inflatable kayaks have irrefutably played a part in making this possible.

But before you make your pick, it is essential to know what features to look for to get the best user experience. Therefore, we shall look at some of these features and the various types of inflatable kayaks out there today.

Types of Inflatable Kayaks

Just like you’d expect with traditional kayaks, inflatable kayaks also come in different shapes and categories. And naturally, the different categories are tailored to meet specific requirements. Therefore, instead of settling for the first thing that floats, it is important first to evaluate your needs and intended use of the kayak and then use it to choose one that is best suited for you.

We shall start our guide by looking at some of the different kayaks out there today, as well as the scenarios they work best.

Sit On Top Kayak

This kayak is made so it lets the user sit at a more elevated position than other kayaks. For this reason, it is best for people who are either claustrophobic or need a long-range view. The sit-on-top kayaks create the impression that you are more out than inside the kayak. Your feet are outside the hull as well, so it is quite easy to get in and out.

The downside to sit-on-top kayaks is that they leave you exposed to water. You might end up getting soaked by the end of the journey. Because of this, this model is more recommended for the warmer, summer season, or preferably on still waters. Sit on top kayaks are also less stable than other models and therefore require a certain level of skill and core muscle to keep it steady.

Sit Inside Kayak

Now, a sit-inside kayak looks more like an ordinary kayak. As the name suggests, you sit fully inside the kayak. Therefore your body is kept dry, even in the roughest weather conditions. Since your feet are covered within the kayak, most sit-inside kayaks will leave some space above your feet to allow for an overall sophisticated bungee system. Some models accommodate and spray skirt, which you can use in rougher conditions or the colder seasons.

Canoe Style Kayak

If you are looking to go kayaking with a partner, then you’ll be better off with a canoe style kayak. It takes a regular kayak shape, only that it is relatively longer, with greater dimensions to accommodate an extra seat.  With this, you get to access places that an ordinary boat couldn’t. Because of its size, you can also use canoe paddles instead of regular kayak paddles

Open Style Kayak

This kayak takes a similar shape to a canoe kayak, only it has higher walls and lower seats. This gives it a lower profile, which in turn adds a little extra stability. Open style kayaks are typically designed for one-person use. Their decks are fully open, so you get to enjoy the outdoors as you move. It also comes with a standard-issue spray cover that comes in handy in the high wakes.

Factors to Consider When Buying An Inflatable Kayak

Now that we have an understanding of the different types of kayaks, it's time to take a look at other things you need to consider when choosing the right inflatable kayak for you. This includes things such as intended use, construction, features, and of course your budget.

What Are You Going To Use It For?

As we mentioned earlier, the first thing you need to do before purchasing a kayak is figuring out what type of kayaking you’ll be doing or what activities you anticipate to be involved in. Whether it is calm fishing on a still lake, cruising down moving rivers, or multi day trips on open rivers, there are inflatable kayaks specifically designed to withstand different levels of abuse.

Some are specially enhanced for comfort. They’ll have features like long backrests for long-distance trips or more space for legroom. Others will be constructed using heavy-duty abrasive resistant material that will easily handle hits from whitewater rapids.

Some other features that boost the use case of an inflatable kayak include:

Deck Rigging

Kayak deck rigging might come in the form of bunnies, deck lines, and toggles. These accessories add some extra convenience and safety during paddling. Most of these items will come with the kayak and will be set up on the deck for easy access. Other things like a compass, a spare paddle, and navigational charts can also come in handy

Cockpit

The cockpit is basically where the kayaker seats when paddling. It is the section that looks like a depression, where the seats and everything else goes in. Safe to say, all standard kayaks will have a cockpit. However, these cockpits are outfitted differently, resulting in different safety, comfort, and control levels.

If you are paddling for long hours, for instance, you want to check for an added, adjustable backrest for more flexibility and comfort. An added thigh brace can also offer the same value. The cockpit size also needs to align with your body dimensions, so your legs don’t remain uncomfortably compressed through the entirety of the trip.

Some cockpits come with bulkheads and hatches at either end. The hatch is an opening where you can store gear, while a bulkhead is like an elongated wall covering the compartment and adds some extra buoyancy to the kayak.

Spray Skirts

If your style is sitting inside the kayak, you will need a spray skirt to keep it consistently dry. This is recommended for kayakers going out to the sea. You should also check for splash guards, which will be at the front and back of the kayak’s hull. They offer some additional help in keeping both you and your gear dry.

Rudder

A rudder it the device which will usually be at the kayak’s stern. You control it by foot to help tracking and steering. If tracking is a priority to you, you can also check for a drop-skeg, which performs the same function

Portability: Carry Your Boat On Your Back!

Portability is one of the main selling features of inflatable kayaks. This means that almost all kayaks will have a certain degree of portability. However, some models are significantly heavier than others.

It is vital that you check that the kayak you chose comes with a carry bag. Not only should it be durable, but also easy to carry, with paddings on the shoulder straps.

Stability: To Hold Up Against Raging Tides!

Many of the inflatable kayaks are designed to maintain a fair amount of stability in water. They are usually made with respect to standardized sizes regarding the maximum width or length. If made too long, they can easily lose stability.

However, if you are looking to move quicker with easier maneuverability, you are encouraged to go for something long and narrow. The idea is to find that sweet spot where you are most comfortable, with respect to your level of experience.

Durability: Something To Last You Through The Seasons!

The basic design of inflatable kayaks is oriented towards making them tough and sturdy enough to resist punctures. They even include air-filled features to make them more buoyant and stable.

However, as with anything else, there will always be some that are more durable than others. This can mostly be attributed to the type of material used in construction.

The main materials used for inflatable kayaks include:

Hypalon Inflatable Kayak

Hypalon is is ideally the most expensive material used in Kayaks. Ironically, it also happens to be harder to work with, requiring more labor than other materials. However, Hypalon is the best at handling UV rays and is more resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme weather.

PVC Inflatable Kayak

PVC or polyvinyl chloride is the most common material you’ll find on inflatable kayaks. Typically, you’ll find PVS bonded with nylon to give it some extra tea resistance. PVC is UV resistant but might break down when exposed to the sun for long periods

Nitrylon Inflatable Kayak

Finally, we have Nitrylon (also branded as NITRILON®). This combination consists of nitrile synthetic rubber and is also fairly widely used in kayaks. The material is more eco-friendly than PVC, and is also more puncture and abrasion-resistant. It is also considered easier to patch and heavy, which is why you’ll likely find it underneath the kayak.

Comfort: For Those Long Paddles!

You might have the most expensive, durable, fastest kayak in the world but still, find it incredibly uncomfortable. That is the thing about kayaks; comfort is not guaranteed. You’ll often find comfort sacrificed for another feature. For example, some are made more streamlined for speed, thereby cutting off on space.

But all in all, when it comes to comfort, two major factors come to play.

The Seats

If ultimate comfort is your preference, or you are looking to go for long-distance kayaking, you want to check for adjustable seats that you can move back and forth according to your comfort levels. You should also ensure that the seats have a nice backrest and are a little elevated from the kayak floor. Padding can also be an extra advantage in putting your body in a more upright position.

Internal Space 

For the smaller guys and gals, space shouldn’t be much of an issue in a typical kayak. However, tall paddlers might find it a bit of a challenge. It is important to ensure that your kayak of choice either provides adequate legroom or has adjustable seats that you can move back. This, of course, would only apply if you are alone on the kayak. If you are sharing the boat with an equally tall paddler, you might be better off settling for a three-person kayak to allow for good legroom.

Space also comes into play when you are carrying a lot of gear for camping trips and such. A larger boat will keep the gear safe while preserving the integrity of your knees.

What Is The Optimal Kayak Length?

Kayaks come in different sizes, and each affects the way the kayak moves. The average-sized kayaks will stretch to around 6-15 feet in length. These ones usually have a balance between agility and speed. On the other hand, there are shorter kayaks, which fall in the 8-12 foot range. The short kayaks are considered more agile and, therefore, good for the bending rivers.

Finally, we have long kayaks, which are not less than 12-14 feet. These ones are faster and move more efficiently. Tall kayaks are especially great for straight paddling since they have more contact with water. They are also more stable and spacious, and therefore most preferred for fishing and longer journeys.

Cost: You Get What You Pay For!

When it comes to cost, inflatable kayaks are generally cheaper than hard-shelled kayaks. This can be attributed to the cost incurred in construction and the more affordable materials used in their making. Despite this, they still offer the same value as non-inflatable ones, which makes them appealing to the masses.

Because of these economies of scale, your typical inflatable kayak will go anywhere within the range of $120 to over $1000. Of course, this is with respect to the kayak's quality and the materials used in its construction.

As a rule of thumb, you get what you pay for. Therefore you would be better off investing in a more expensive, high-quality inflatable kayak, and in turn, get all the features, including carrying bags, paddles, pumps, and a patch kit. Anything around $550-$600 should suffice.

However, this again still depends on your intended use; if you are only a seasonal kayaker working with still waters, you can settle for a cheaper model and still get pretty decent results.

Inflatable Kayak FAQS

Inflatable kayaks are now more affordable than ever, and with them, you get the opportunity to explore the vast outdoors and enjoy what nature has to offer. Hopefully, with our guide, you now have all the tools you need to make your kayaking experience easy and fun. We also gave our suggestions on the best kayaks out there, and we are sure that whichever you choose will do you justice.

Now, all that is left is to pump some air in, saddle up, and cruise through those rivers like a ninja warrior! But just in case you need more information, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about inflatable kayaks.

What is an inflatable kayak?

Inflatable kayaks are exactly as the name suggests. They are kayaks that can be inflated and deflated before and after you use them. Unlike your typical hard-shell kayak, made from rigid material like plastic, wood, and fibreglass, inflatable kayaks are much lighter and made using more flexible material like polymers and synthetic rubber. Despite this, you can still expect them to hold up against the raging waters.

What is the best inflatable kayak?

With the rising popularity of kayaking, there are quite a number of good inflatable kayaks popping up every day. However, there are still some reputable manufactures like Intex and serene life, which have been making them for years. They are especially known for making good quality and comfortable kayaks. For more information, you can check out our review above.

Where to buy inflatable kayak?

Nowadays, you can buy an inflatable kayak at almost any serious shopping mall or major sports retail store around you. However, you stand to get a wider array of options and price ranges from online platforms like Amazon. The site is more recommended because of its quick and reliable delivery system, which it has perfected over the years. You also get the option of returning the product if it doesn’t live up to your expectation.