The 10 Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2021
Photo: inflatablekayakworld.com
The inflatable kayak is a fun boat that can be used for a wide range of activities, ranging from recreational family outings to competitive kayaking.
As the name suggests, this kayak type is pressurized using air, making it easy to transport, quick to set up, affordable, and very lightweight. Moreover, the inflatable kayak is one of the rare types of boats that do not need a permit to operate.
If you are fresh on the market for the best inflatable kayak, we have you covered! Here are our impressions on a few hand-picked kayaks that are worth considering.
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10 Best Inflatable Kayaks – Review
- 1. Best Overall Inflatable Kayak: Sea Eagle SE370
- 2. Best Budget Inflatable Kayak: Intex Explorer K2
- 3. Best Sit-in Inflatable Kayak: Intex Challenger K1
- 4. Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing: Intex Excursion Pro
- 5. Most Lightweight Inflatable Kayak: Sevylor Quikpak K1
- 6. Most Heavy-Duty Inflatable Kayak: Driftsun Voyager
- 7. Best Touring Inflatable Kayak: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame
- 8. Spray-Covered Inflatable Kayak: Sevylor Quikpak K5
- 9. Inflatable Kayak for Whitewater: Sea Eagle SE330
- 10. Easy-to-Motorize Inflatable Kayak: Sevylor Colorado
- How to Buy the Best Inflatable Kayak
- FAQs
- Conclusion
10 Best Inflatable Kayaks – Review
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1. Sea Eagle SE370 (Best Overall) |
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2. Intex Explorer K2 (Best Budget) |
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3. Intex Challenger K1 (Best Sit-in) |
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4. Intex Excursion Pro (Best for Fishing) |
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5. Sevylor Quikpak K1 (Most Lightweight) |
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6. Driftsun Voyager (Most Heavy-Duty) |
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7. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame (Best for Touring) |
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8. Sevylor Quikpak K5 (Spray Covered) |
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9. Sea Eagle SE330 (For Whitewater) |
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10. Sevylor Colorado (Easy to Motorize) |
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PRODUCT |
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1. Sea Eagle SE370 (Best Overall) |
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2. Intex Explorer K2 (Best Budget) |
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3. Intex Challenger K1 (Best Sit-in) |
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4. Intex Excursion Pro (Best for Fishing) |
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5. Sevylor Quikpak K1 (Most Lightweight) |
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6. Driftsun Voyager (Most Heavy-Duty) |
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7. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame (Best For Touring) |
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8. Sevylor Quikpak K5 (Spray Covered) |
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9. Sea Eagle SE330 (For Whitewater) |
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10. Sevylor Colorado (Easy to Motorize) |
1. Best Overall Inflatable Kayak: Sea Eagle SE370
Photo: Sea Eagle
- People Capacity: 3
- Kayak Weight: 32 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 650 lbs.
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Materials: Polykrylar
The Sea Eagle SE370K-P is our best overall inflatable kayak because it has the highest people capacity and weight capacity. It can accommodate up to 3 people and up to 650 lbs. in weight, which is very impressive.
Moreover, you get two quality paddles with this purchase. These paddles have aluminum shafts for maximum strength and durability, while their asymmetrical blades provide a wide surface area for quick thrust.
You also get two comfortable deluxe seats that have improved back support and are movable to allow you to adjust your seating position.
Two skegs are attached to the underside for improved tracking, while a rugged 38mm thick Polykrylar construction plus a sturdy I-beam floor help to maintain maximum durability & rigidity.
The only problem is that you only get two seats instead of three, yet the boat accommodates three people.
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2. Best Budget Inflatable Kayak: Intex Explorer K2
Photo: Intex
- People Capacity: 2
- Kayak Weight: 30.6 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
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Materials: Vinyl
This kayak is very reasonably priced, yet it has some impressive features. These include a wide, stable design that ensures that you cannot easily overturn even when paddling on rough waters. Additionally, you get a removable skeg at the bottom for directional stability.
Other than that, the product has a weight capacity of 400 lbs., which is decent for carrying two people, while a bright yellow exterior color improves visibility for safety purposes.
You also get three separate air chambers to guarantee buoyancy, a rigid I-beam inflatable floor, and Boston valves for quick inflation/deflation. 2 aluminum paddles and a heavy-duty manual pump are in the set as accessories.
However, the boat lacks a 3-ply construction, which limits its sturdiness and durability.
More Detailed: Intex Explorer K2 Review
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3. Best Sit-in Inflatable Kayak: Intex Challenger K1
Photo: Intex
- People Capacity: 1
- Kayak Weight: 23.9 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs.
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Materials: Vinyl
If you prefer using a sit-in kayak, we recommend Intex's Challenger K1 . It offers quick & light movement performance and adds on a removable skeg for directional stability.
The unit is also quite similar to the K2 because it has a bright green exterior for improved visibility and a cargo net at the front for storage. However, this one accommodates only one person, which means it has a single seat and comes with one 84-inch aluminum oar paddle.
A puncture-resistant vinyl construction enhances the kayak's durability while its rigid I-beam floor gives firm support. You also get Boston valves for quick inflation and deflation, an adjustable & removable seat, and grab lines on the front & rear end.
The boat has a low weight capacity of 220 lbs. though but considering it fits one person, this is quite reasonable. However, we do not recommend this for an overweight person. On the bright side, the K1 is the best cheap inflatable kayak because it is very affordable.
More Detailed : Intex Challenger K1 Review
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4. Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing: Intex Excursion Pro
Photo: Intex
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People Capacity: 2
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Kayak Weight: 39.01 lbs.
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Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
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Materials: PVC, Polyester
Some inflatable kayaks are ideal for fishing, and the Intex Excursion Pro is particularly suited for this. It features removable & adjustable mounting brackets for holding fishing equipment like GPS systems, fish finders , and swivel fishing rod holders. In addition to this, it has two built-in fishing rod holders.
Aside from that, the vessel is fitted with two adjustable bucket seats and two floor-mounted footrests for better comfort when fishing.
High-pressure inflation with I-beam floors ensures you get maximum rigidity & stability, while two removable skegs under the hull give you deep & shallow water stability.
All components plus the pressurized air are held in place by a super tough 3-ply PVC construction (with a polyester core) that is impact, abrasion, and UV resistant.
High-pressure spring-loaded valves are built-in for inflation & deflation, which make the process very easy. You also get a high-output pump to fill it up quickly and two 86-inch aluminum oars as accessories. The only issue is that the boat is quite expensive.
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5. Most Lightweight Inflatable Kayak : Sevylor Quikpak K1
Photo: Sevylor
- People Capacity: 1
- Kayak Weight: 18 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
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Materials: PVC, Tarpaulin
Though built using heavy-duty 21-gauge PVC material, Sevylor's Quikpak K1 is surprisingly very lightweight. Coming in at 18 lbs., this kayak is very easy to carry into or out of your kayak trailer .
In addition to the PVC fabric, this boat also has a tarpaulin bottom that protects against punctures. An airtight system with multiple air chambers ensures you remain afloat even if one pocket is punctured.
You also get multi-position footrests that let you sit in your most comfortable position, double lock valves for easy inflation/deflation, a cargo net at the front, a cup holder, and carrying handles at the front and rear.
The only problem is that the seat is not adjustable because it is part of the boat (permanently attached).
More Detailed : Sevylor Quikpak K1 Review
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6. Most Heavy-Duty Inflatable Kayak: Driftsun Voyager
Photo: Driftsun
- People Capacity: 2
- Kayak Weight: 27 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 450 lbs.
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Materials: 840D Nylon Oxford, PVC
Just like the Coleman Colorado , this Driftsun Voyager is very durable. It has a tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric as the top cover, a puncture-resistant heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin material at the bottom, and leak-proof double-threaded Boston valves.
On the inside, you get high-quality, non-slip EVA padded seats, while splash guards at both the rear and front end prevent water from getting inside. All the hardware is corrosion-resistant, and this makes the Voyager one of the best inflatable ocean kayaks.
The nose has a pointed design for superior streamlined performance, while a removable skeg under the hull gives responsive tracking. You also get paddle straps, but there are no storage slots or pockets in this boat.
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7. Best Touring Inflatable Kayak: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame
Photo: Advanced Elements
- People Capacity: 2
- Kayak Weight: 52 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 550 lbs.
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Materials: PVC
Touring requires good tracking performance, and this AdvancedFrame gives you that due to its long 15-ft design. Additionally, it has built-in aluminum ribs that enhance tracking because of the way they define the bow and stern.
Since you might be covering long distances, two comfortably-padded and adjustable high-support seats are built-in for solo or tandem paddling. You also get bungee straps for storing your supplies and carrying handles at the front & rear end.
The boat comes pre-assembled from the factory for easy use. It is built using PVC with three layers for maximum durability and enhanced puncture resistance. On the downside, it is heavy and expensive.
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8. Spray-Covered Inflatable Kayak: Sevylor Quikpak K5
Photo: Sevylor
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People Capacity: 1
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Kayak Weight: 25.5 lbs.
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Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.
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Materials: PVC
Sevylor’s Quikpak K5 has a unique design that incorporates the use of spray covers to block splashes from getting to your lower body. This feature comes in very handy if you are kayaking during winter.
The vessel has a durable 24-gauge PVC construction that is strengthened by a tarpaulin bottom and a polyester cover for increased puncture resistance. In case there is a puncture, the multiple air chambers inside ensure you remain buoyant.
You also get double-lock valves that use two locking points for easy inflation/deflation. This mechanism lets you set up the kayak in less than 5 minutes using the included air pump.
There are bungee storage areas for tying your gear and multiple D-rings for attaching extra straps to carry extra gear. On the downside, the boat has a relatively low weight capacity of 250 lbs. However, this is quite enough for a single person.
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9. Inflatable Kayak for Whitewater: Sea Eagle SE330
Photo: Sea Eagle
- People Capacity: 2
- Kayak Weight: 26 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs.
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Materials: Polykrylar
If you like whitewater kayaking, Sea Eagle's 330 should be your go-to option. With its 2-person capacity and 500-lb weight capacity, the boat is ideal for class 3 whitewater, which is mildly intense but recommended for experienced paddlers.
The kayak is also made from a heavy-duty Polykrylar material with a reinforced I-beam floor for enhanced durability when paddling through the whitewater.
You also get two rear skegs for excellent speed and tracking, two super comfortable deluxe seats with improved lumbar support, two aluminum shaft paddles with asymmetrical blades, a foot pump, and a carry bag.
However, the skegs are not removable, which would otherwise be ideal for improving maneuverability.
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10. Easy-to-Motorize Inflatable Kayak: Sevylor Colorado
Photo: Sevylor
- People Capacity: 2
- Kayak Weight: 41.2 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: N/A
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Materials: PVC, 1000D Tarpaulin, 840D Nylon
Sevylor's Coleman Colorado features provisions for a trolling motor at the back, which allows you to attach this engine to expand your fishing capabilities.
That said, the unit is equipped for fishing because it has adjustable Berkley quick-set rod holders for hands-free fishing, mesh storage pockets for keeping your fishing gear within close reach, and multiple D-rings for attaching extra gear.
Another thing that distinguishes this kayak is its superior build quality. Indeed, this model has a sturdy 18-gauge PVC construction that is very durable.
Additionally, you get a 1000D tarpaulin bottom plus an 840D nylon cover, which improves puncture resistance, while an airtight system assures you of leak-proof performance.
The only downside is that there are no paddles in the set.
More Detailed : Sevylor Coleman Colorado Review
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How to Buy the Best Inflatable Kayak
Photo: Sea Eagle
1. Types of Inflatable Kayak
There are several types of inflatable kayaks, and each is suited for a particular purpose. Here are some popular kayak types that you will encounter.
Self Bailing Kayaks: These kayaks have holes at the bottom, which are known as ports. Their use is to drain water if it gets inside the kayak.
Indeed, this type of kayak will need those holes as it is for whitewater rafting. It sounds pretty weird that an inflatable kayak is used for whitewater because this is usually reserved only for hard-shell kayaks.
However, the self-bailing kayak has a very durable build-quality with a heavy-duty underside that allows it to raft on those dangerous waters.
Sit on Top Kayaks: The sit on top kayak has an open cockpit so that you can freely move around. Additionally, you have a bird's eye view over the waters around you because of the elevated seat.
The only problem with the
sit on top kayak
is that when water gets inside, it is difficult to get it out.
Therefore, this type is ideal for calm rivers and lakes where there is little possibility for water getting inside the cockpit.
Sit Inside Kayaks: The sit-inside kayak has a closed cockpit. Therefore, this type of kayak is better suited for rapid waters and sports rafting since the inside stays dry. Nevertheless, maneuverability is not as good as a seat on top kayak since the cockpit is smaller and limits movement.
Canoe-Kayak: As its name suggests, the canoe-kayak is a hybrid between a regular canoe and a kayak . The result is a short and wide kayak that is very stable on the water.
This type of kayak is generally meant for recreational purposes and can accommodate all-sizes (big or small people) with ease.
2. Size
Size is one of the most important considerations for an inflatable kayak. A long vessel offers better tracking performance, which is ideal for touring purposes, while a shorter one is more maneuverable. On the other hand, a wider hull gives better stability, and we highly recommend this.
That said, longer kayaks such as Advanced Elements' AdvancedFrame Convertible are better for tracking, while short 1- or 2-person units are better for whitewater. Wide boats like Intex's Explorer K2 are more stable and better suited for beginners.
3. Material
You need to check the build quality of an inflatable kayak to avoid punctures or sinking. Ensure the unit has a durable, high-quality construction, and we recommend PVC boats such as Driftsun's Voyager .
Additionally, the material needs to be made in such a way that it will not lose durability when inflated and deflated over time.
For best security, we recommend you go with an inflatable kayak that has a reinforced bottom and an airless system (like in Sevylor's Quikpak K1 ), which guarantees buoyancy.
4. Capacity
Apart from the kayak's weight, you should also consider its capacity, in which there is the weight capacity and people capacity.
Weight capacity shows you the maximum weight that the boat can carry. That said, the higher the weight capacity, the better because it is more difficult to sink. In this case, Sea Eagle's SE370K-P stands out because it can carry up to 650 lbs.
On the other hand, the people capacity shows the number of people that can fit on board. Similar to the weight capacity, the more the people-capacity, the better. Sea Eagle's SE370K-P still takes the top spot on this because it can carry up to 3 people.
5. Kayak Weight
The weight of a kayak directly affects its portability. If you have to load and unload the kayak to your car or trailer, it makes sense to go for a lightweight model such as Sevylor's Quikpak K1 .
6. Setup Time
An inflatable kayak setup time is primarily determined by how fast it is to inflate. For this, you need to consider two main features: the pump output and the valves.
We recommend getting a high-output pump for quick pressurization and a kayak with double-lock valves, which have two locking points.
6 . Accessories
Keep an eye out for accessories like a removable skeg, removable seats, cargo nets, and grab lines. All those accessories make your kayaking much more enjoyable.
FAQs
Are Inflatable Kayaks Durable?
Yes. However, nothing lasts forever. Sunlight is one of the causes of degradation, and therefore, always store the kayak while covered. Seawater also causes more harm than freshwater. Eventually, the lifespan of your inflatable kayak will depend on how and where you use it.
How To Care For The Inflatable Kayak?
After each use, you must deflate and spray your kayak with clean, fresh water to clean any dirt, saltwater, etc. Let it dry, then fold and pack it.
Before use, do not to over-inflate your kayak as it may rupture or make the PVC material lose its elasticity over time.
What Type Of Pump Is Best For Inflation?
You can go the manual route or choose an electric pump for ease-of-use. An electric pump usually consumes 12V of power and can be connected to the outlet in your car. All types are good enough so you should pick the one you prefer.
What Type Of Valves Do They Have?
Most inflatable kayaks come with three types of valves.
- The drain valve
- The one-way valve
- The dual-lock valve
The drain valve is responsible for deflating the inflatable kayak. It usually comes as a screw system that slowly lets air escape so that the kayak can go flat.
On the other hand, the one-way valve is where you connect your pump to inflate the kayak. As its name suggests, it allows air only in one direction, and therefore, if you remove the pump valve, the inflatable kayak will not deflate.
The dual-lock valve system allows air to pass through one valve at a time only, which works like a security feature. It prevents your inflatable kayak from deflating while you are inflating it.
What Kind of Wear and Tear Should I Watch for?
Mostly small punctures and rips as those can render your kayak useless. However, you can mend these using patch repair kits.
Conclusion
In summary, we can conclude that all the products reviewed above fit the best inflatable kayak description.
However, Sea Eagle's SE370K-P stands out as the overall best because it can carry up to 3 people and up to 650 lbs. in weight. The product also has a durable Polykrylar construction and features two skegs for better tracking.
That said, for the best tracking performance, we recommend Advanced Elements' AdvancedFrame Convertible because it has a long frame with aluminum ribs for enhanced tracking.
If you are on a tight budget, check out Intex's Explorer K2 . It is very economical but packs in some useful features such as a stable hull and a removable skeg.