Perhaps you’ve recently seen someone pull up at the beach with a camper van and a couple of kayaks strapped to the roof and thought, if only kayaks were that little bit more portable.
I was once fanatical about kayaking, with high hopes of paddling the Amazon River and taking on the white waters of slovenia. But the logistics of porting a hard-shell kayak from one place to another, without the aid of a 4×4, is incredibly impractical. Inflatable kayaks are sure to change all that. No longer a play toy for kids at the beach, modern inflatable kayaks are made of high-quality waterproof materials which can withstand abrasions and stay afloat in choppy waters. Thanks to new technology, the best inflatable kayaks for whitewater no longer pop at the sight of a rock, and while they may not be quite as robust, they certainly give their hard-shell cousins a run for their money.
- Inflatable kayaks buying guide
- Features of inflatable kayaks
- FAQs when choosing the best inflatable kayak
- Best 1-person inflatable kayaks
- Best 2-person inflatable kayak
- Best 3-person inflatable kayaks
If you’re reading this article then you’ve probably come to the same conclusion about inflatable kayaks as us, but need a little guidance as for the which brand and model to invest your money in. Well, we’ve taken a look at several of the best inflatable kayaks on the market, evaluated their usefulness in terms of portability, quality, and of course, performance, to put together this list of the top inflatable kayaks 2023.
Summary of the best inflatable kayaks 2023
Disclaimer: We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.
| Product | Seats | Weight | Weight capacity | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bote Deus Aero 110 Classic Teak Inflatable Kayak | 1 | 41 lbs / 18.6 kg | 300 lbs / 136 kg | Beginner kayakers & paddle boarders | $$$$$ |
| Aquaglide Chinook 90 Inflatable Kayak | 1 | 19 lbs / 8.6 kg | 250 lbs / 113 kg | Fishing, flat, slow water kayaking | $$$$ |
| Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame | 1 | 36 lbs / 16.2 kg | 300 lbs / 136 kg | Touring | $$$$ |
| Sevylor Quikpak K5 | 1 | 25.5 lbs / 11.5 kg | 250 lbs / 113 kg | Lakes and slow rivers | $$ |
| Itiwit Strenfit X500 1-person Inflatable Kayak | 1 | 39.6 lbs / 18 kg | 275 lbs / 125 kg | Touring | $$$$ |
| Intex Challenger K1 Kayak | 1 | 27 lbs / 12 kg | 220 lbs / 100 kg | Lakes and slow rivers | $ |
| Itiwit Inflatable Touring Kayak | 2 | 30.8 lbs / 14 kg | 331 lbs / 150 kg | Beginner half-day touring up to 300m from shelter | $$$ |
| STAR Paragon Tandem Inflatable Kayak | 2 | 52 lbs / 23.5 kg | 400 lbs / 180 kg | Flat water kayaking | $$$$$$ |
| Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak | 2 | 26 lbs / 11.8 kg | 500 lbs / 227 kg | Whitewater (up to Grade III) | $$ |
| Driftsun Voyager | 2 | 27 lbs / 12 kg | 450 lbs / 204 kg | All-round use | $$$$ |
| Intex Explorer K2 Kayak | 2 | 30.6 lbs / 13.9 kg | 400 lbs / 180 kg | Occasional use on lakes and slow moving rivers | $ |
| Tahe Outdoors Breeze Inflatable High Pressure Canoe Kayak Hybrid | 3 | 43.8 lbs / 19.8 kg | 551 lbs / 250 kg | Intermediate calm water half-day touring | $$$$$$ |
| Sevylor Big Basin | 3 | 34.8 lbs / 15.8 kg | 490 lbs / 222 kg | Lakes and slow rivers | $$$ |
| Gumotex (Innova) Seawave Kayak | 3 | 39.6 lbs / 18 kg | 551 lbs / 250 kg | Long distance touring | $$$$$$ |
Inflatable kayaks buying guide
Use
The first thing to consider, before you choose an inflatable kayak, is what sort of kayaking you will be doing. Cruising down slow moving rivers or exploring sheltered lakes and bays? Fishing? Multi-day kayaking trips? Heading out on the sea in choppy conditions? Or hitting some whitewater rapids? All of these types of kayaking are highly feasible in an inflatable, however, some are better suited to certain things than others.
Size
Our list of the best inflatable kayaks includes options for one, two and even three paddlers. As well as how many people a kayak can hold, the size of the kayak also has a bearing on the type of kayaking you can do in it. For overnight trips and fishing you’ll need to opt for something with internal space and storage.
Portability
One of the main benefits of inflatable kayaks is how easily they are to transport. Whilst some models are bound to heavier than others, it’s important that, whatever their weight, they have a carry bag. This should be easy to carry — with shoulder straps if possible. But a decent handle at the very least.
Material
The material of inflatable kayaks is fairy key to their success and popularity. The fabric needs to be durable enough to not pop at the sight of sharp rock, but light enough to pack down and transport without the use of trailer! Here are your fabric options:
- Hypalon: Durable and strong. Resistant to UV rays, chemicals and extreme weather. It is found on high end kayaks, but not as abrasion resistant as PVC.
- PVC: Cheap, abrasion resistant and durable. Has questionable environmental impacts, though.
- Nitrylon: Stronger, more durable and more eco-friendly than PVC. But also heavier.
Stability
Most inflatable kayaks are relatively stable in the water and are good for beginner kayakers. However, if you’re wanting to move quickly in the water with good manoeuvrability you’ll need something narrow and long. That said, inflatable kayaks need to have a certain amount of width and can’t be too long, otherwise they’ll lose stability easily.
Comfort
You can get the most high performing, speedy kayak in the world, but if you find it uncomfortable to sit in, it’s useless! Of course, you’ll not be able to test the comfort levels of an inflatable kayak before you buy one. So to heighten the chances of it being comfortable, consider the following:
Seats
Kayaks with adjustable seats add to comfort levels as they can be moved back or forward in the kayak to suit your preferred position. Seats with a supportive backrest will also help you stay more comfortable, as will a little bit of elevation off the floor of the boat. Some seats are flat on the floor with little or no padding, whilst others are padded or inflatable, raising you up off the floor and putting your body in a more natural sitting position.
Internal space
Space isn’t such an issue for small people. But for tall paddlers it’s important that you choose a kayak that provides enough leg room for you. Cramped up knees get uncomfortable very quickly. Adjustable seats help with this, but if you are sharing your kayak with another tall paddler it might be worth considering a three person kayak so that both have enough leg room. Another reason to opt for a spacious boat is if you intend using your inflatable kayak for overnight camping trips. You don’t want your camping gear encroaching on your own space. Again, it’s worth opting for a larger boat than the number of people it is intended for.
Features of inflatable kayaks
Storage
Many inflatable kayaks have space to store gear and spare clothing, either inside the boat or on top. Cargo nets are an effective and lightweight method for storing gear, as well as gear loops or hooks to secure your belongs to.
Carry handles
Used to transport a kayak to and from the water, handles are essential features. Ideally they should have a degree of padding for comfortable carrying, and are located at either end of the boat, on either side, or both.
Seats
To provide comfort and support when sitting in your kayak, a seat with a backrest is really important. Most are adjustable to suit your height and preferred position, and they are either inflatable or made of foam. Almost all inflatable kayak seats are removeable.
Splash guards
Some inflatable kayaks have guards at the front and back of the hull that help to keep stored items dry, as well as you! They are often removable to help access your gear.
Carry bag
As mentioned, a carry bag is kind of an essential feature of an inflatable kayak, and most kayaks will come with one. If you envisage only ever launching your kayak within a short walk of your car, then a carry bag with handles or a shoulder strap will be sufficient. However, if you like the idea of taking a short hike to access the water then you’ll most certainly want to go for a backpack carry case. You may have to buy this separately, depending on which kayak you choose.
Foot rests
Foot rests are designed for both comfort and to gain more control over the kayak. They are usually adjustable to fit the height of the paddler, however, most lower spec inflatable kayaks don’t have foot rests at all, only the higher end models.
- Many inflatable kayaks have detachable skeg. This is a piece of triangular plastic that attaches to the bottom of the kayak to help prevent the boat from being effected by crosswinds and crosscurrents. This is especially helpful on flat-bottomed boats that tend to sit high in the water. V-shaped hulls, on the other hand, have less need for the extra stabilisation as they sit lower in the water.
Self-bailing and drainage plugs
In certain conditions, inflatable kayaks will take on water. However, many are self-bailing to prevent excess water from sinking your boat! If you look hard enough you’ll find small openings that let water out. Alternatively, kayaks have drainage plugs that can be opened to release any water that has been taken on. Just remember to close the plugs before you set off on the water!
FAQs when choosing the best inflatable kayak
Long answer: It depends on what sort of kayaking you plan on doing and which inflatable kayak you go for. If you plan on buying the cheapest option on the market for frequent use in variable conditions then it’s unlikely that it will be worth it. However, if you only intend on using your cheap kayak a couple of times a year on calm water then opting for a portable kayak that doesn’t need much space to store is a no-brainer. Opt for a higher end inflatable kayak and it’s much more comparable to a traditional hard kayak in terms of durability and performance. So for frequent use in more challenging conditions it will be worth the extra spend.
Yes! Bringing your canine friend along for the ride is certainly possible, providing there’s space in the kayak you choose. You’ll struggle to fit a dog into a one person inflatable kayak, but most two person kayaks will fit a dog, assuming it’s not a Great Dane! There are, however, a couple of things to consider:
- Keep your dog’s claws trimmed
- Put them in a doggie buoyancy aid
- Lay down an old towel or mat in the bottom of your kayak to minimise wear and tear from claws
Best 1-person inflatable kayaks
Bote Deus Aero 110 Classic Teak Inflatable Kayak
Best for: Beginner kayak & stand up paddle boarders
If you’re after a single person inflatable kayak with a difference this is it! The Bote Deus Aero 110 Classic Teak Inflatable Kayak is a one-of-a-kind, super-versatile craft that transforms into a stand up paddle board in seconds.
Its futuristic-looking design and streamlined teak-effect panelling puts us in mind of a mini airboat and for a beginner level kayak the Deus (day-us) is a real eye-popper as well as great fun on the water. A sit-on-top seat design keeps you high and dry while paddling and is great for nature spotting too. Plus, when you’re tired of kayaking the top chamber removes easily to create the magic paddle board option. Recreational paddling never felt so good.
Unrivalled in the kayak category the Deus’ funky design and engineering make use of military grade PVC skin. It’s a lightweight but durable boat with low risk of damage if bumped and scraped in shallow waters. Bote’s Aero Technology™ ensures performance and peak rigidity of the hull whilst allowing the boat to transform from folded, in the 36″ × 17″ × 13″ travel bag, to a fully functional 11’ kayak in minutes. A hand pump inflates to 10-15psi.
There’s space to strap a cooler at the back and the inflatable seat-back is removable, making this a great choice for after-work relaxation as well as longer paddles or even calm-water fishing. Portable for road-trip use too, the Deus could well be the best inflatable kayak for fun, fun, fun, and we all need more of that at the moment.
Pros
- Looks epic!
- Sit-on-top kayak and stand up paddle board in one
- Military grade PVC construction
- Self-bailing cockpit
- Rolling travel bag & accessories included
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- No leash when used as paddle board
- Paddle not included
Find the latest price at:
Bote
Aquaglide Chinook 90 Inflatable Kayak
Best for: Fishing, flat, slow water kayaking
This is the best 1 person inflatable kayak for fishing, bird watching and nature spotting.
A whole 2’ shorter than the single person Bote Deus kayak, this is a compact, lightweight and portable open-cockpit boat designed for the shorter paddler.
There are 2 fishing-ready rod holders, a storage pocket on the seat to keep gear tidy and close at hand, and D-rings with front and rear bungees to secure dry bags etc. Clever hook and lock-closure holders keep paddles secure when you need your hands free for rods or binoculars.
At a lightweight 19lbs the Aquaglide Chinook 90 Inflatable Kayak’s compact size provides stability and manoeuvrability in the water, great for tight squeezes and lake shores though we’ve heard it’s not as nifty as touring paddlers might like and therefore we thoroughly endorse its ideal use for recreational fishing.
There’s a thickly padded foam cushion seat with a high, breathable backrest for coolness on hot days. Plus, the seat itself is easily installed and solidly anchored to the floor with quick-release straps and hook-and-loop closure strips so it doesn’t slip while you haul in a catch.
The Chinook 90 is made from ripstop polyester for puncture resistance, UV protection and durability. To complete its fisherman’s friendliness, there’s a removable floor covering for ease of cleaning and a cockpit drain for rinsing through. Oh and it also fits into some hatchbacks fully inflated. What more could a solitary fisherman ask for?
Pros
- Multiple fishing-ready/nature spotting features
- Boston valve deflation
- Quick release weedless fin
- Duffle-style storage bag included
Cons
- Not well suited for faster water
- Pump not included (12 volt electric recommended)
Find the latest price at:
Amazon
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame
Best for: Touring
The AdvancedFrame from AdvancedElements is a hybrid kayak, somewhere between an inflatable kayak and a folding frame kayak. The built-in aluminium ribs in the bow and stern are made to steer through the water and cut through the waves almost as well as a hard-shell kayak while the wide, 32-inch base, makes this single inflatable kayak almost impossible to flip. Meanwhile, users can still enjoy the portability of an inflatable kayak. The AdvancedFrame takes approximately 15 minutes to inflate, 10 minutes to deflate, and will comfortably fit in the back of a car. The single and tandem model even come pre-assembled. It also features an adjustable padded seat for extra comfort on longer journeys. Unlike most inflatable kayaks the AF has a multi-layer construction for enhanced durability and puncture resistance, meaning that it’s not just a throw-away purchase.This highly rated 1 person inflatable kayak is also available in a larger version with a more open cockpit. With 3 positions available, the seats can be adjusted to the perfect position for one or two paddlers.
Pros
- Built-in aluminium rib frame for excellent steering
- Very stable (good for beginners)
- Durable construction
- Adjustable and padded seat
Cons
- Zippers are not watertight
- Heavier than other models
Find the latest price on:
Amazon | Advanced Elements | REI
Coleman Sevylor Quikpak K5
Best for: Lakes / slow-moving rivers
This is one of our favourite kayaks for solo travellers. This Sevylor inflatable kayak quickly packs away into an integrated backpack with padded shoulder straps for easy portability and practical storage. The backpack is able to hold the paddle, pump and other accessories and then becomes the seat of the kayak so it won’t take up any cargo space. The Sevylor Quikpak K5 from Coleman is also ideal for last-minute trips as it inflates in just 5 minutes using double lock valves. It features a durable polyester coated tarpaulin bottom and a 24-gauge PVC construction which should protect the base from punctures. Another useful feature is the D-rings for attaching extra equipment, and the easy access bungee storage system. It’s up there with the best one person inflatable kayaks around.
Pros
- Easy to Carry
- Quick to set up
- Nice Price
- Hand pump and paddle included
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- The paddle is not the best quality
- Not suited to long distances
Find the latest price on:
Amazon
Itiwit Strenfit X500 1-person Inflatable Kayak
Best for: Touring on calm waters
If you want to go places quickly on the water, then the Itiwit Strenfit X500 1-person Inflatable Kayak is a superb option to consider. The innovative design of this rigid inflatable kayak is like nothing else on our list, and a groundbreaking concept in convenient paddling. Thanks to the V-shaped hull that minimised resistance in the water, this inflatable touring kayak glides with ease helping you go further and faster than regular inflatable kayaks. The impact resistant drop-stitch construction also contributes to its rigidity.
There are certainly some teething issues in this new design. One of which is the stability of the boat, or rather the lack of it! Some playing around with loaded weight and inflation levels may mean that greater levels of stability can be achieved. But as a result, this is certainly not a good option for beginner kayakers, and even experienced paddlers may need to take some time to get used to it.
Overall, the X500 offers excellent efficiency in the water with some key features for longer journeys on the water. These include adjustable foot rests, a comfortable foam seat, two storage hatches as well as external webbing at the bow, and a padded backpack carry case. Aside from the stability issues, this is the best one person inflatable kayak for experience paddlers wanting to get the miles in.
Pros
- Rigid construction glides well
- Excellent efficiency in the water
- Good storage options
- Compatible with a spray skirt
Cons
- Unstable, sits high in the water
- Not for beginners
Find the latest price at:
Decathlon
Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
Best for: Lakes / slow-moving rivers
The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is the best budget option on our list. The single inflatable kayak comes with the pump and paddle included as well as a built-in cargo net for carrying additional items. It features a streamlined design and roomy cockpit, however, the length of this kayak is not ideal for tall people. The Challenger K1 is made from a heavy-duty vinyl which is both puncture resistant and lightweight. This kayak is also suitable for beginners and solo kayakers as the inflatable I-beam floors provide excellent stability while the kayak itself is quick to deflate and packs into a relatively small bag. The Challenger K1 may not be the most durable item on our list, nor the most suitable to for choppy seas or whitewater, but the Intex Challenger K1 is certainly great value for money.
Pros
- Includes pump, paddle, and cargo net
- Very stable and lightweight
- Economic
Cons
- Limited leg room
- Tracking is not great
Find the latest price at:
Amazon
Best 2-person inflatable kayaks
Itiwit Inflatable Touring Kayak
Best for: Beginner half-day touring up to 300m from shelter
This 1 or 2 person inflatable kayak is a low priced option for solo or tandem beginner-level paddling. First time kayakers will love the Itiwit Inflatable Touring Kayak’s stability and security in the water, provided by side tubes and a wide inflatable floor. The bright, lime green colourway means it’s visible from a distance too.
Another benefit for newbies comes in the form of a seat raised high from the floor which gives comfort both when paddling and at rest to allow those aching muscles a break. Additionally there are helpful floor markings to indicate where to position the seats depending on whether you’re using the Itiwit as a double inflatable kayak or single person only.
The V-shaped front enables smooth entry into the water, another bonus for nervous beginners, and the patented 3 keel bow shape makes for good glide performance.
The Itiwit is a stable and reassuring paddle, inflatable in 7 minutes to 1.5psi and easy to disassemble and fold into the backpack carry bag. Ideal for half-day touring it could be the best inflatable kayak, 1 person or 2 person, in the beginner level price bracket.
Pros
- Thoughtful design features for beginner peace of mind
- Boston valve deflation
- Backpack-style carry bag & accessories included
- 2-year parts warranty
Cons
- Paddle & pump not included
Find the latest price at:
Decathlon
STAR Paragon Tandem Inflatable Kayak
Best for: Flat water kayaking
At 15’ this is the longest and heaviest double inflatable kayak in our 2023 summary. A great choice of 2 person kayak, the STAR Paragon Tandem Inflatable Kayak is versatile enough to adjust easily for single paddlers too – though of course we all know that paddling is far more fun with a friend!
The longer length gives ample room for two adults and along with removable high back seats there are two sets of removable foot braces, all fully adjustable for different paddler heights. This makes for a comfortable paddle with good legroom and allows weight to be more evenly balanced with different sized paddlers on board.
Rigid stern and bow inserts create a traditional keel shape for ease of tracking and stability when flat water touring. Additionally, splash covers at each end with bungee rigging keep gear secure, accessible and dry in wet weather or choppy waters.
A high pressure drop-stitch floor insert produces the rigidity of a hardshell kayak yet dries quickly after use. This makes the Paragon one of the best inflatable kayak 2-person models on the market despite its weight.
Pros
- Adjustable foot braces
- Carry bag, pump, fin & repair kit included
- Removable skeg
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Very heavy
- Not as good as some on choppier water
Find the latest price at:
REI
Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
Best for: Whitewater (up to Grade III)
This is the best double inflatable kayak for whitewater paddling and also a good option for leisurely kayaking or overnight trips. The Sea Eagle 330 comes with enough cargo space to carry camping equipment and is able to handle weights of up to 500 pounds. We like that the kayak itself only weighs 26 pounds and packs down into a drawstring bag which can easily fit into a car or into plane luggage. The Sea Eagle’s hull is made from a durable K-80 polykrylar material which is extra thick and resistant to punctures. It is also a good option for beginners too due to its wide and stable base and I-Bean construction. It’s fitted with a double skeg which provides far better tracking than other inflatable kayaks on the market, and the self-bailing drain valve is a useful feature for anyone taking on rough waters. Overall, this is a well-priced inflatable kayak that is well suited to river adventurers and beginners alike.
Pros
- Puncture resistant
- Lightweight
- Very stable
- Well priced
- 3 Year limited warranty
Cons
- Tends to drift in stronger winds
- No storage pockets or bungee attachments
Find the latest price on:
Amazon
Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Kayak
Best for: All round use
This 2-person kayak is one of the best inflatable kayaks for all-around use on lakes, rivers, or streams. It features an incredibly lightweight and compact design. The upper part is made from a rip resistance 840D nylon-coated oxford fabric which will withstand most abrasions, while the hull is made from a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin fabric. This may not be the most durable fabric but it is puncture resistant and keeps the kayak lightweight so you can easily carry it to and from your launching point.
The Driftsun Voyager features a V-shaped hull, raised bow, a removable tracking skeg, and side tubes for enhanced steering and stability. These make it suitable for use on both calm and windy days. This tandem kayak also comes at a very reasonable package price which includes accessories such as a repair kit, hand pump, removable rear tracking skeg, aluminium paddles, padded seats, and, of course, a convenient travel bag. The best thing about the Driftsun Voyager is that it can be inflated/deflated in just 5 minutes.
Pros
- Very quick to inflate
- Lightweight and compact
- Accessories are included
Cons
- Reduced storage space
- Not as durable as other inflatable kayaks
Find the latest price on:
Amazon
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
Best for: Occasional use on lakes and slow moving rivers
Though certainly not the highest spec inflatable kayak on our list, the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak allows beginner kayakers to enjoy occasional outings on the water without committing to a hefty investment. Plus, the lack of durability, compared with higher spec options, means that you’ll need to take care of it. However, when used and stored correctly, this easy to paddle 2 person kayak will go the distance for a good few years of occasional use.
It’s simple to set up, has decently comfortable and adjustable seats and comes with a carry bag. Plus, it can carry up to 400 lbs / 180kg, making it an excellent option for two adults. Taller folk may struggle with the lack of legroom and should stick to shorter outings. However, there is enough space behind the back paddler to carry food and gear for a day out on the water.
If you’re looking for a little more comfort and space with higher spec construction then the Intex Excursion Pro is worth considering.
Pros
- Good value for occasional use
- Adjustable seats
- Good weight capacity
Cons
- Not very comfortable for tall paddlers
- Carry bag is a rather flimsy
- Durability could be better
Find the latest price on:
Amazon
Best 3-person inflatable kayaks
Tahe Outdoors Breeze Inflatable High Pressure Canoe Kayak Hybrid
Best for: Intermediate calm water half-day touring
Ideal for half-day touring in calm waters, the Tahe Outdoors Breeze Inflatable High Pressure Canoe Kayak Hybrid is a basic, high performance 3-person hybrid canoe/kayak for intermediate paddlers. In a grey/blue/yellow colourway, the boat looks bright but subtle and is fun to paddle albeit with basic features and being somewhat heavier than other brands.
Drop-stitch panel structuring allows for high pressure inflation (in 10 minutes with a double-action hand pump to 8PSI or 0.55bar), creating extra rigidity for balance on the water.
Comfort and security are enhanced with high back rests on the seats, great for anyone with lower back issues, while front and back V-moulded stems create a shaped hull for improved glide performance.
Weighing in at just under 44lbs the Breeze is fairly hefty compared to others and comes with a sturdy carry bag ( 85 x 55 x 35 cm) but would benefit from shoulder straps given the weight of the boat. A great intermediate paddle for families of 3, 2 taller adults or an adult and 2 children.
Pros
- 3 seats for family use
- Drop stitch panels increase rigidity
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Limited legroom for taller paddlers
- Heavier than most other brands
- Bag has carry handles only
Find the latest price at:
Decathlon
Sevylor Big Basin
Best use: Lakes and slow rivers
Considering that this Sevylor inflatable kayak is best suited to calm waters and lakes, the heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin provides plenty of protection from punctures and tears. This inflatable kayak is also fitted with multiple air chambers for extra buoyancy. This ensures that the kayak will stay afloat even if one chamber is damaged. The integrated front and rear splash guards and air-tight system will also help keep your crew dry and happy! We like that the Sevylor weighs only 35 pounds despite being able to carry a weight of 490 pounds. And we love that the double-threaded Boston Valves make inflating and deflating the kayak a painless task. Admittedly, at only 12ft long this the Sevylor Big Basin inflatable kayak may feel a little cramped for 3 adults. However, this length does make the kayak easy for three people to steer and manoeuvre whilst the 3 ft base is wide enough to keep passengers from taking a dip with the fishes! A superb choice for family paddling trips.
Pros
- Guaranteed leak proof system
- Easy inflation/deflation
- Integrated splash guards
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for fast rivers or sea
- May feel crowded for 3 adults
Find the latest price on:
Amazon | Sevylor
Gumotex (Innova) Seawave Kayak
Best for: Long distance touring
At over 14 foot long, the Seawave, by Innova in the US or Gumotex in Europe, is the longest inflatable kayak on our list and also the most versatile. It boasts a spacious design that can accommodate one, two or three paddlers, thanks to the adjustable seating options. It can also be fitted with a spray deck for one or two people, to offer a seaworthy kayak that keeps paddlers and gear dry and contained.
Features include adjustable foot rests, inflatable seats, carry handles, safety ropes on the sides and a drain opening at the stern. It also comes with a backpack carry case and a removable tracking fin.
As well as its excellent tracking and speed on long distance trips, we really love that this premium kayak is constructed with Nitrilon that is tough and durable and a more environmentally appealing alternative to PVC.
It’s a pricey option and is better suited to intermediate paddlers looking to go further afield on their paddling missions.
Pros
- Spacious
- Versatile
- A good choice for the environmentally conscious
- Comes with a backpack carry case
Cons
- Doesn’t hold rigidity well in choppy conditions
- Pricey
Find the latest price at:
Gumotex | Innova
Whichever of this superb selection of inflatable kayaks you choose, be sure to enjoy your time on the water in safety. If you’re new to boating then our guide on how to paddle a kayak is a great place to learn more.
Happy kayaking!
