Inflatable kayaks are becoming quite popular among adventure enthusiasts due to their transportation uses. One can deflate these kinds of kayaks quickly and carry them in a standard car trunk without any hassles.
Although many believe that these kayaks aren’t as durable as the hard-shelled ones, yet these kayaks do their jobs pretty well. Also, with the continuous improvements in the designs and sizes, the inflatable kayaks offer more advanced features than ever. So, if you are thinking of investing in such an inflatable kayak, then take a close look at the unique features of the same. These features can guide you to pick out the affordable yet appropriate one for your personal uses.
Our Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2020
Based on all the essential features, here is an honest review of the Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2020:
The manufactures took special care to keep steering and control in reference while designing this particular product. It comes with excellent built-in aluminium ribs which define the bow and the stern perfectly. Along with that, the three layers of material present makes it ideal for puncture resistance.
The company knows it very well that one of the hurdles faced by travellers is that the kayaks lack proper tracking. This is the reason why they have formulated the product with great tracking features with the incorporation of the aluminium ribs within the hull of the kayak. With such an addition, the kayak has a sturdy stiffness without compromising the portability of the device.
Personally, I feel this one is of the best inflatable Kayaks available in the market as it can withstand harsh climatic conditions while maintaining its perfect shape. Also, we get the massive hulls inbuilt in this kayak, which helps to avoid potential leaks. However, the kayak becomes slightly bulkier due to the addition of the massive hulls.
Overall, this one is one of the best available in the market.
The specifications of the product include two move-able Deluxe Kayak Seats, which are comfortable and used for improved back support. Presence of 2 AB30 7’10” four-part paddles with asymmetrical blade and aluminium shaft along with open and closed drain valves. This one is ideal for the adventure couples as it is made with solid seats with backs to accommodate around 2-3 persons at a time.
It comes with a spectacular design and built along with the high centre of gravity, which makes this one look more like a canoe. Another thing which I noticed about this one is that this boat doesn’t go like a typical kayak.
All thanks to the presence of the inflatable nature of the vessel here, it really feels quite different to my previously used kayaks. One unique thing I would like to add here is the length and the generous mid-section available ion this kayak. Thanks to this area that I was able to use this space as my storage area.
Overall this kayak performs really well and is quite useful for water adventures.
I am sure that the company had convenience on their mind while designing this superbly built inflatable Kayak. The manufacturers wanted us to enjoy the adventures of getting into the water without going through the tension of putting the inflatable kayak in place. I love this one as this one is more convenient to set up than the traditional ones.
The inflation takes around 5 minutes maximum, and very quickly, it becomes ready to use. This is what I loved about this kayak. No wasting of time in setting things up, and you get to enjoy the best kayaking ever. It is true to its build and the shape, and it gives an impressive performance. But the kayak isn’t much responsive towards the harsh climatic conditions. However, the handling is tolerable to a certain extent.
The presence of the polyester cover and the tarpaulin bottom offer strong protections from punctures. The multiple air chambers present here also helps the other one to stay inflated if there is a puncture in one of them. The presence of the airtight system is guaranteed for no leaking.
Another feature of the Sevylor Quikpak K5 is the moderate amount of storage space. Unlike the other two kayaks stated above, this one doesn’t come with tremendous storage capacity. But I was able to store my tent, rucksack, cooking equipment, life jacket, and a few other materials here.
I feel this one is ideal for solo travellers.
I have to admit that this inflatable kayak is a standard rig which is ideal for the freshwater adventures. It is not at all ideal for the rapids and the open sea areas. This brand is known for the smooth performing kayaks along with the straight control features.
The most exciting thing which caught my attention was the way it looks. It is a bright yellow kayak, which is quite attractive. It is also one of the most affordable ones available in the market. Just like the Sea Eagle, this one is also meant for two users.
It has a wide berth and removable skeg, which makes it an ideal kayak than a canoe. I also found plenty of space to store my transportation supplies here like extra paddles, bilge pump, snacks, binoculars, full face snorkels, cameras, etc.
My experience with this kayak was superb. It works admirably and doesn’t seem to suffer at all from the reliability issues which I have faced earlier with my other kayaks. But yes, you might look out for the hard and sharp rocks as you might scuff it a little.
However, overall the strength of the material of the inflatable kayak is pretty strong and sturdy.
Weighing around 27.2 pounds and the Intex Challenger K1 can accommodate 220 pounds, this one is highly affordable and is the entry-level kayak for beginners. It comes with enough space for a single user and aluminium oars. What I loved about this primary kayak is the excellent stability of the device. Given the price, it is quite a surprise to get such balance in a basic kayak.
Made of durable welded material and striking, eye-catching graphics for safety purposes, this kayak is ideal for the slow-moving rivers and lakes. The company has designed the cockpit to provide maximum space and comfort to the user along with stability.
The presence of the rounded berth and the skegs make it one of the best navigable kayaks available in the market. I tried this kayak in my early days of practice, and it provided me all the necessary features to start my water adventures. It folds away into a small package, which makes it an ideal one to travel from one place to another.
But yes, I always felt the built is slightly flimsy, and I had to provide more energy to row my way through the water. Also, it was quite an activity for me to dry the kayak successfully once out of the water.
However, my verdict is, given the price, I have no complaints at all and would refer to this one as a perfect choice for beginners.
What to Look for While Choosing the Best Inflatable Kayak?
These are the top factors we considered when we choosing the Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2020.
Once you have decided to get yourself an inflatable kayak, the real challenge comes in as to choose the best one within the price range. Given the different number of models and designs available in the market, no wonder people often get confused in choosing the appropriate one for themselves. So, here is a guide to the essential features of an ideal kayak:
Size
Just like the price, the size is another vital aspect to check out while choosing the best inflatable kayak for yourself. Ask yourself some basic questions like:
- Do you need a tandem or a solo kayak?
- What is your height? Do you require extra legroom in your kayak?
- Would you prefer a kayak extra wide and stable or the fast and sleek one? Or maybe something in between both of these characters?
- How compact and small do you want your inflatable kayak to be?
- How long can you paddle on your kayak?
- Do you require extra room for storing gear in the kayak?
- Will you be able to carry the kayak on your own?
These are some of the critical questions to ask yourself before you finalise the appropriate size of the inflatable kayak.
Solo or Tandem
In general, people love to ride a tandem kayak than a solo one. That is because the tandem ones allow a lot of flexibility along with extra room for storage purposes. It also works significantly in gliding through the water. However, the solo ones are the compact kayaks, which are ideal for carrying any location without any hurdles.
The single ones are easy to carry and inflate at the same time. But the great advantage that lies with the tandem one is that it is easily converted into a solo one, which makes it ideal for the users. So, choose the type of kayak cautiously according to your requirements.
Warranty
Another essential aspect to consider while buying the perfect inflatable kayak for yourself is the warranty that comes along with the product. The cheaper ones come with six months to a year’s warranty. But the standard ones come with at least a two year warranty period. It is always better to refer to the brands which offer an extended warranty period to their products. Some typical brands even provide a satisfaction guarantee of around 180 days. That means, if you aren’t satisfied with the services of the product, you get your refund immediately. However, these all differ from brand to brand. Hence, choose them only after conducting a thorough comparison.
Price
The first thing to look out for a while choosing a product has to be the price range of the product. The prices of the products vary drastically depending on the shape, design, brand, and features. You get what you pay for, but that doesn’t mean that you end up giving a huge amount for buying a kayak.
It is quite natural that you might hesitate to invest in a £600 kayak, but it is better to invest in a good one for extended use. The cheaper models fail to work correctly, which might not turn out to be the best investment for you. So, compare the prices and do a thorough market study before you decide to go for the one for your family.
Type of Kayaking
The kayak comes in different shapes and sizes according to their usage in different kinds of water. Every kayak like the Whitewater kayak or the touring kayak has its own specifications. It is essential to choose them based on your preference for lakes or rivers or ocean bays. Your choice of inflatable kayak would mainly depend on the type of water where you would be paddling.
Final Review
These reviews given above will definitely help you pick the best inflatable kayak for you and your family. Consider these specific features along with the price and the benefits before finalising the best inflatable kayak for you. However, if you or your friend has recently purchased one from the list, please do share your experience with us.
If you think we have missed a must-have inflatable kayak, please do get in touch we would love to hear from you and love your suggestions, it could be something we haven’t yet tried, that everyone needs to know about.
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