BEST INFLATABLE KAYAKS REVIEWED 2020
Inflatable kayaks have evolved greatly in the past few years. Previously, people use to utilize these kayaks for having fun during pool parties but now it has become an advanced sports item available in a variety of colors, functions, specifications, shapes, and designs.
Today, the kayaks can be inflated in less than five minutes and can easily fit in the trunk of your car. Storage at home is also very easy. In addition to the space-saving advantages, an inflatable kayak is more lightweight than the plastic kayaks available in the market. The plastic kayak weighs at least 30-35kg whereas an inflatable kayak has an average weight of 12-14kg only.
The modern construction, easy-to-fold compact design, lightweight material, and stylish designing has made inflatable kayaks a very popular choice for people who like going to water rafting, fishing and river paddling. Due to great demand, many high-quality brands are coming forward in the market and launching more innovative and unique kayaks that may make it confusing for a potential buyer to choose from. This is why we have listed down the best inflatable kayaks in 2019 according to our understanding and personal experience.
1. Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
Another most loved inflatable kayak from Advanced Elements is Advanced Frame Convertible. It is a very resilient, balanced and stable kayak which is meant to be paddled by two people but the paddles can be adjusted to solo mode as well.
This inflatable kayak is around fifteen feet long and manufactured with strong and heavy-duty materials to ensure durability. Three coatings of puncture-resistant material are incorporated so it can easily withstand rough conditions and will still work perfectly. the outside of the kayak is made out of PVC tarpaulin and layered with 1000 denier polyester material to make it even more durable. Additionally, the stern and bow contain landing plates to provide protection against rocks and other dangers in the water.
you can use Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible in rivers, oceans, and lakes and because it has a tough hull, it can easily endure a class 3 river intensity, rocks and other rough entities without putting any rider in danger.
Thanks to the inner aluminum frame, this inflatable kayak can easily slide through the water rapids and when you combine this with a skeg, be prepared to have equipment that works as a hard-shell.
It holds a carrying capacity of 500 lbs. and can embrace ample gear as well even if you are planning to go in the water alone. In the front, it has a mesh pocket and if you put in an extra deck you will have two mesh pockets.
Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Features:
✓ A lightweight frame made out of aluminum
✓ Excellent tracking, rigidity, and speed
✓ Conversion deck design for solo riders
✓ Drop stitch construction
✓ PVC protected exterior
✓ Six inflatable chambers
✓ It can be inflated to 15 feet long and holds 550 lbs. weight
2. Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler
No one can ever go wrong with Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler as far as a good fishing kayak is concerned. This equipment is manufactured by keeping the image of a fisherman in mind thus it is more comfortable, customizable and stable in terms of its cool and unique features.
Two standard rod holders are present behind the lumbar support chair but the real game-changer for this inflatable kayak is its detachable mounting trail attached to the bow. Due to this, the riders can gear multiple add-ons according to their choices such as GPS, extra rod holders and fish locators.
A stainless steel D-ring and shock-cord netting of the bow and stern enable the rider to tidy away the tackles, paddle holders and additional gears so you can stay calm even if you lose a paddle somehow.
For riders who like to stand up while in the water, they can be benefited from the wide beam of this kayak for more steadiness and stability. Another feature that ensures the durability of this product is aluminum frame built, multilayered PVC coatings and 5 inflatable air chambers to make sure that the kayak will run true in coarser and rougher waters.
Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler Features
✓ Two-rod holders
✓ Removable accessory bar
✓ The floor contains a printed measuring tape
✓ Sturdy beam for enhanced visibility
✓ Durable and hard-hitting exterior
✓ Abrasion pads and multiple compartments for protection
✓ High back and lumbar supporting seats
✓ Aluminum textured frame
3. Sea Eagle 300X
If you are looking for a versatile yet durable inflatable kayak then Sea Eagle 300X is the ideal option. It is considered as a very good choice for solo kayaking because of its excellent stability. There are 16 fast working self-bailing drainage taps that can be opened for whitewater and remain close when used in flat-water.
The portability of this kayak is exceptional, it is easy to maneuver around and use. The reinforced exterior and 100 denier durable material ensures that the kayak is built for a long-lasting purpose and will hold up good during rough conditions.
The drop stitch floor is incorporated to double the protection against coarse whitewater strokes, logs, rocks and other objects that may come in the way. Also, the hefty removable skeg helps in tracking through flat water. This is a big plus as many people can now use this product for other purposes as well rather than ocean surfing and lake fishing.
Sea Eagle 300X Features
✓ Drop stitch floor for more protection
✓ 16 self-bailing drains
✓ Spray skirts for bow and stern with bungee strapping
✓ Can be inflated in less than 5 minutes
✓ Removable skeg for better tracking
4. Hobie Mirage i12s
Before buying an inflatable kayak, almost every potential buyer has wondered if they are safe or not? Every ocean voyage especially those made through an inflatable kayak must cover extra precautions. This protection and safety are very much doable if you go for Hobie Mirage i12s kayak.
It is among the best inflatable kayaks in the market mainly because it has pedals. Many customers have rated it as a high-end kayak that is completely worth their money. So what makes it so unique?
It has unbelievable stability, a highly responsive steering system and outstanding tracking abilities that every user long for. All these features are stimulated through a patented pedaling system and an incorporated twist/stow hand-run rudder which will help you to reach your destination very quickly and professionally. Many anglers love this kayak due to its wide cargo space that they can use for easy gear, tackle and standing while propelling through the water strides.
The vintage-styled CTi-stadium seats are very comfortable and allow the riders to stay in an upright position without causing their backs to strain. You will also face no problem in getting the Hobie Mirage i12s into the water as it is fully stocked, contains carrying handles and rolling travel bags for easy transportation.
Hobie Mirage i12s comes with an electric motor as well as a sailing kit so it is more capable than just open water fishing. It is tough, durable and has a 1000 denier PVC exterior to endure all kinds of water hazards, shells, rocks, and even fishing hooks.
Hobie Mirage i12s Features
✓ 400 lbs. holding capacity
✓ 4 piece of aluminum paddle
✓ Rolling carry bag, sailing kit, and optional electrical motor
✓ It is a kayak with pedals
✓ 1000 denier PVC exterior for enhanced durability
✓ Features drop stitch technology
✓ Hand operated rudder and stadium styled padded seats
5. Sea Eagle SE370
For both amateurs/beginners and experienced kayakers, Sea Eagle SE370 is an ideal choice for so many reasons. Not only it is lightweight to carry around but can easily be packed in a bag or tossed in the back of a car due to its compact and small size. You can inflate it in less than ten minutes and take along three more riders since the overall construction of this kayak is solid, durable and resilient.
It is a great model for solo kayaking and tandem kayaking and available in a variety of sets in the market. Versatility is another most significant reason for the popularity of Sea Eagle SE370. With everything this inflatable kayak has to give, there is no denying that it is indeed the best kayak in the world.
Sea Eagle SE370 has a well-sought and convenient design. You can deflate it and keep it in your bag so it is also perfect for those who have limited or no storage space. The hull weighs 32 lbs. So a single person can easily carry it into the water, inflate it in less than ten minutes and get it into the water will less effort. Deflating this equipment is as easy as inflating it means require 5-10 minutes or less.
The hull of this inflatable kayak is made from 38 mil PVC i.e. K80 PolyKrlyar to make sure resistance against sun and saltwater while safeguarding against water impact and abrasion. Three separate chambers inflate the hull to deal with uncertain water conditions, breach and kayak rupture. The kayak is accessible in four different packages which have been designed individually to meet everyone’s requirements be it a professional or a beginner.
Sea Eagle SE370 Features
✓ Two directional skegs
✓ Great speed and tracking on flatwater
✓ Rear and front removable spray skirts
✓ Carry handles with stern and bow
✓ Tough PolyKrlyar built to resist leak and punctures
6. Sevylor Quikpak K5
Sevylor Quikpak K5 comes as a complete package which means it has a boat, backpack to transport the boat, paddles, and hand pump for inflation. Setting up this kayak is very easy and should only consume five minutes or less.
The biggest advantage of this kayak is its portability. You can fold it into the given backpack along with the pump and oars because of its small size and compactness. If you are thinking about going on a vacation, you can easily take this kayak in your bag to avoid getting expensive and lavish rentals and use your money somewhere more important.
The backpack that is provided with the package can also serve as your seat when you are sitting in the kayak but as much innovative, as it may sound, it might not be very comfortable for many people. unlike other brands and their launched models, Sevylor Quikpak K5 is constructed with numerous air chambers so even if it gets ruptured, you can be sure that with 24 gauge PVC exterior you still paddle the kayak to seashore and make necessary repairs according to your knowledge.
Another surprising feature this kayak holds is its cool gear storage. Additionally, bungees and D-ring attached to the bow and stern also allow the rider to take different equipment along such as camping gear and tents, etc.
The carry handles are easy to grab so a single person can easily transfer it from one place to another. The only drawback of Sevylor Quikpak K5 is capacity (250 lbs. only) which might be a tradeoff for many people.
Sevylor Quikpak K5 Features
✓ Enhanced safety through multiple air chambers
✓ NMMA certified and can hold up to 250 lbs.
✓ Features double-sided paddles and hand-pumps
✓ Spray covers, lashing and D-rings to store items
✓ Durable exterior to prevent leakage and puncture
✓ Easy to carry around in a backpack
7. Intex Challenger K2
It is the largest inflatable kayak launched by the company Intex. The total length of this kayak is 351cm and is available to be used by one person at a time. When you receive the kayak and when you open the package, you will instantly be amazed by its shape and overall appearance.
The front paddle has a little cushioning in the bug so it can be used as a footrest. This footrest will give more strength and support to the paddles when you row it in the water. The paddles for the backside already have good sustenance because of its edges by the front seat.
An inflated Intex Challenger K2 kayak holds two-sided air chambers that are to inflate through Boston valves and high yield air pumps. The chambers contain printed measuring gauges to make sure that there is an accurate amount of pressure required to achieve good driving performance.
This inflatable kayak has two high-back seats as well as cargo meshwork on the front side for better gear transportation. It cannot be used effectively on whitewater but should not cause you any trouble in slow rivers and lakes. It even has a detachable skeg which is shocking for such a low price kayak.
Looking at its price, you will be surprised to see that Intex Challenger K2 has two aluminum paddles, repair kit to deal with cuts and punctures, and self-drain valves.
Intex Challenger K2 Features
✓ Weighs only 33 lbs. and is 11.5 ft. long
✓ Inexpensive
✓ Perfect to row in calm rivers and lakes
✓ Contains high capacity pump, repair kit, and two paddles
✓ Comfortable seating
✓ Stable and durable construction
✓ 400 lbs. maximum capacity (amazing feature for a budget kayak)
8. Advanced Elements Expedition Kayak
The reason to launch this inflatable kayak was to have a unique paddle- sports product which can be used to boost the user’s outdoor experience. It was manufactured and designed with a cutting edge technology for people who love water but also wants to travel light. Advanced Elements Expedition Kayak can add a new dimension to everyone’s outdoor expedition due to its new and advanced features and distinctive specifications.
Unlike any other product, it is a hybrid mixture of an inflated and a foldable kayak. It means that you get the best of everything once you buy this kayak for your routine use. With huge storage space, this kayak is nearly 13 feet long and is perfect for the scenarios when you want to be away for a long time.
It has a carrying capacity of 450 lbs. so there is plenty of room for the riders. Advanced Elements Expedition Kayak comes with an adjustable seat in conjunction with lumbar support to provide sustenance to your lower back when riding. Mesh pockets and rubber handles have also been incorporated to ensure user handling and safety.
A carrying bag (to carry important stuff), an adjustable foot brace, inflatable spray skirts make this kayak a good choice for almost everyone. The hull has been constructed with an aluminum frame to shape the stern and bow in order to achieve better tracking. For better monitoring, you will also find a skeg that can be removed or fixed accordingly.
Advanced Elements Expedition Kayak Features
✓ Innovative hybrid design (one of its kind)
✓ Adjustable seat to provide lower back support
✓ Good storage space for accessories and clothing
✓ Easy paddling and amazing stability
✓ Repair kit
✓ Unique kayak shape and more durability
✓ High-flow spring valves and TwistLok valves for setting up the kayak
9. Intex Challenger 2 Person Inflatable Kayak
If you are a water sports lover and adore having an adventurous life, you would obviously be interested in kayaking. To have more fun in the water, we recommend you to buy Intex Challenger 2 Person Inflatable Kayak as it is an ideal choice for the budget most people have in their mind.
The first thing that appeals to people towards this kayak is its colorfulness. A combination of green, blue and black makes its exterior quite pleasing and alluring. It is a two-person kayak that is 11.5 ft. in length and can hold up to 350 lbs. of weight. Moreover, it features PVC vinyl, 30 gauge rugged constructions, and modern design for enhanced agility and stability.
The I-beam floor built and an integral skeg is incorporated in Intex Challenger 2 Person Inflatable Kayak for increased initial strength, rigidity, and directional control. It comes with a large cockpit, inflatable backrests, inflatable seats, cargo netting, and massive storage space to store and keep items that are required.
Unlike other inflatable kayaks, this one features a single Boston valve over the core hull chamber for easy inflation and deflation. Above everything, it also includes two-84 inch aluminum paddles with rubber grips and an advanced hand pump for quick inflation and setup.
With all these amazing features, it does give a commodious alternative to some of the smallest kayaks on the market.
Intex Challenger 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Features
✓ Includes repair kit and high-capacity pump
✓ 400 lbs. weight holding capacity
✓ Grab line on both ends for easy transportation
✓ Sporty flair and highly visible graphics for maximum safety
✓ Inflatable floor for rigidity and comfort
✓ Spacious cockpit with inflatable seats and backrest
10. Elkton Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak is built to last long with durable components and high-quality construction. It is made especially for those people who love going on fishing adventures. The smooth design of this kayak will let you stay back and enjoy the day on the water with your friends or family.
It is an inflatable tandem kayak that has an extra-strong PVC built that makes it probably the strongest inflatable kayak available. But, this kayak is more than just power and strength. It also comes with everything that a rider needs for a decent fishing voyage.
Elkton Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak is easy to inflate and can be set up in less than five minutes. Once inflated, it is bound to make fishing more convenient than you have ever experienced. The kayak is fabricated with an 18 gauge puncture-resistant 1000 denier PVC thus making it hook and tear-resistant so the rider doesn’t have to worry about a leak when out on the river.
It includes all the related fishing accessories and gear, two adjustable/comfortable seats, two vertical and two angling rod holders, carry bag, double-action pump, and two-sided paddles. For an easy repair and adjustment, this kayak owns three different removable air chambers that allow quick diagnosis and necessary repairs. Thus it can serve as a great alternative for conventional kayaks without having to compromise over the performance and fun.
Elkton Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak Features
✓ Extra tough PVC body
✓ Resistant to hook punctures wear and tear
✓ Three inflatable chambers for more safety
✓ Easy to set up and can be quickly inflated
✓ 2 non-inflatable seats that are padded for more comfort
✓ Comes with six fishing rod holders
✓ Six mesh pockets for gear stashing
✓ Two adjustable and lightweight paddles
Buying Guide
Inflatable kayaks are gaining popularity with each passing day. Their demand has upsurge the number of manufacturers and brands thus making it difficult to choose a good and optimal kayak even for professionals.
In this guide, we are going to describe some important aspects and features that every kayak buyer must keep into consideration before making a purchase. With the help of these key points, you can understand your criteria and use them for a decision making process.
- Portability and Weight
Inflatable kayaks can be used as a very good alternative of hard-shell kayaks because they are easier to store, very light in weight, excellent to take along during traveling and extremely portable. Though they are lightweight than traditional kayaks, they can still differ a lot within themselves when it comes to weight and size. This is why you should be aware of your personal choices and then consider which kayak you would like to purchase.
- Capacity
There are two types of inflatable kayaks i.e. single passenger and double passenger. Single passenger inflatable kayaks are easy to roam around in the water as compared to the double passenger inflatable kayaks.
However, there is no doubt saying that a double passenger inflatable kayak is more stable and fast. Tandem kayaks can let you take someone along your river/ocean voyage thus great to be used by couples and families. Your decision will completely depend if you want to share the kayak with someone or not. Many tandem kayaks can also be transformed into a solo kayak so it is another feature to consider.
- Material
Three types of materials are used in making inflatable kayaks i.e. PVC, Nitrylon, and Hypalon.
Though PVC is usually very toxic for the environment, it is still considered as the best material for an inflatable kayak. It is not just inexpensive but easy to fold, reusable, lightweight, and wieldable. In many kayaks, manufacturers use PVC after combining it with nylon to enhance tear resistance and overall kayak strength.
Nitrylon is although very ecofriendly, strong and tough than PVC but its only weakness is that it is heavier which is why it is only used to build bottoms and sides of the inflatable kayaks. Hypalon is an advanced material and is known for its exceptional stability, strength, durability, and resistance but it is bulky and heavy so it is uneasy to transport it from one place to another.
- Budget
With so many models of inflatable kayaks in the market, there is a competition between their prices as well. You can find as cheap inflatable kayak as 90 dollars and as expensive as a 1000 dollar. Our recommendation would be to go with your instinct and keep your financial plan/ budgeting in mind so you don’t overspend and still get a kayak that fulfills your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are inflatable kayaks durable and long-lasting?
Despite the fact that there are three types of strong and robust materials that are used for manufacturing inflatable kayaks, they are at least more durable than the hard-shelled kayaks. They are usually thicker, wear/tear-resistant and strong which is the main reason why people are more attracted to them rather than the others.
- What is an inflatable kayak skeg?
A skeg can also be called as a fin. It is a sheathable blade that is similar to a rudder in its appearance. However, the rudders are known to pivot side by side but skegs do not work this way. They are found in the back of the boat in a dropped out position and is used to control up and deep kayak movements by the help of a slider. The slider is present near the thigh area to give a better direction connection between the kayak and the rider.
A skeg can also be called as a fin. It is a sheathable blade that is similar to a rudder in its appearance. However, the rudders are known to pivot side by side but skegs do not work this way. They are found in the back of the boat in a dropped out position and is used to control up and deep kayak movements by the help of a slider. The slider is present near the thigh area to give a better direction connection between the kayak and the rider.
- How many types of inflatable kayaks are there?
there are many types of inflatable kayaks to choose from i.e. whitewater kayaks (self-bailing kayaks containing holes to let out water automatically), fishing kayaks (usually round in shape at the back and front and holds great storage space to keep fishing equipment), canoe kayaks (just like normal canoes but inflatable) and sit-on-top kayak (they have elevated seats and lack a fenced cockpit).
- Which one is a better-solo kayak or tandem kayak?
It depends upon the rider if they are willing to take someone along in the water or just want to have fun by themselves. What’s surprising here is that there are so many tandem inflatable kayaks that can be converted into a solo kayak by removing the extra seat and adjusting the remaining according to the rider’s liking.
- Can an inflatable kayak be cleaned?
Yes, they can be. It is very important to keep an inflatable kayak properly dry and cleaned before they can be stored away. Improper cleaning and carelessness might damage them or their parts irreparably. For better kayak cleaning, remove all its accessories and then scrub it softly with cleaner and lukewarm water. Once cleaned, wipe it with a dry, clean cloth.
Conclusion
Kayaking is one of the most amazing outdoor water sports that people make use of to refresh their minds and bodies; they can challenge their abilities and conquer their adventures by overcoming all the hurdles and struggles. yet, choosing the right kind of inflatable kayak can be very overwhelming but once you know which product you have to buy, be sure to add more joyfulness to your water expedition.
There are so many factors that contribute to a good-quality inflatable kayak. Be it its weight, passenger capacity, color, shape, size, accessories, portability, material, and durability, you must look into every aspect and learn about different products before making a final choice.
We are hopeful that by now, you must have made a wise choice to get one from our recommended inflatable kayaks. We are also optimistic that our detailed article was very helpful for you in finding out the best inflatable kayak of 2019 to be the ultimate mainstay during your paddling and fishing cruise. Leave your comments down below and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us at any time.
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