Best_Folding_Kayaks

Kayaking can be a wonderful experience, but transporting a heavy kayak to and from the water can be exhausting. Kayaks are difficult to carry, which may deter people from participating in the sport that they love on a more regular basis. For this reason, inflatable kayaks are quickly gaining popularity. In fact, having the best portable kayak can completely change your kayaking adventures this summer!

But in order to get the best portable kayak, there are many important things to consider, such as ease of assembly, durability, storage capacity, and weight. In this guide, we will simplify the decision-making process for you by providing all the information you need. We have also completed kayak reviews to show you the best products on the market. Once you’ve read through this guide, you’ll be able to choose the perfect foldable and portable kayak for you.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Oru Kayak Coast XT

Oru Kayak Coast XT


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Summary

The Oru Kayak Coast XT is the best portable kayak for conquering the open water – it’s fast, handles great, and offers plenty of comfort for longer tours. Sized like a suitcase when packed, it opens to impressive 16 feet in length, ready to tackle any challenge. The combination of smart design, quality, and performance is the main reason why the Coast XT takes the top spot on our list.

Design and Assembly

Thanks to its streamlined hull design, the Coast XT gives impressive acceleration, speed, and tracking. However, this comes at a cost of slightly reduced stability. While it’s not an ideal kayak if you’re a beginner, intermediate and advanced paddlers will truly love it. The whole kayak assembles in 15 minutes, and the process is very straightforward if you follow instructions. It’s certified to over 20,000 foldings, guaranteeing that it can last for a really long time.

Cockpit and Seating

Designed similarly to a sit-in kayak, the Oru Kayak Coast XT uses a closed cockpit design that gives you protection from all sides. Tests show that it can handle Class III rivers and 6-foot waves without problems, and it’s easy to roll if it capsizes. The cockpit itself is very spacious even if your tall, and comes with a comfy seat that will give you proper back support throughout the day.

Storage and Extra Features

For convenient storage, this kayak is equipped with bungee cord rigging on the front (handy for securing dry bags and other items you need close to hand). If this is not enough, there is plenty of room inside the cockpit for everything you wish to protect from splashes. As for the extra features, you’ll get thigh pads for extra comfort, as well as convenient grab handles at the front and back for easier carrying.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Packs into a suitcase-sized box for easy transportation
  • Incredible durability with more than 20,000 folds without damage
  • Double-layer polypropylene easily resists bumps and hits in the water
  • Zipper-channel closure system makes assembly quick and reliable
  • Easy to roll back if the kayak gets capsized by a wave
  • Fitted with thigh braces for additional comfort and stability when turning
Model & Accessory Specs

Best Use: Sea Kayaking
Length: 16 feet
Width: 25 inches
Weight: 36 pounds
Packed size: 33 x 12 x 29 inches
Material: 5mm Double-Layer Polypropylene
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Setup Time: 10 to 15 minutes

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Oru Kayak Bay ST

Oru Kayak Bay ST


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Summary

If you’re looking for a balance between performance and comfort, the Oru Kayak Bay ST folding kayak is the one for you. It’s lightweight, portable, and provides exceptional versatility and performance. With a weight of 28 pounds and packed in a compact package, it’s really convenient to take with you. Overall, it’s one of the most enjoyable foldable kayaks to use regardless of your skill level, which is why we picked it as our favorite.

Design and Assembly

Every Oru Kayak is made from extra-strong polypropylene, ensuring top-level durability. It resists any type of puncture, abrasion, and even UV damage from sun exposure. The double-layer material is 5 millimeters thick, allowing you to fold it several thousand times without any issues. In addition to the tough design, the assembly is very easy too – if you follow the instructions, you’ll have the Bay ST ready to hit the water in under 15 minutes.

Cockpit and Seating

One thing we really like about this kayak is its reinforced cockpit. Because of this, the walls don’t feel wobbly, so it’s significantly easier to get in and out. On top of this, the cockpit has bulkheads on both sides (front and back), giving the whole structure even more rigidity. The seat itself is well-made, padded, and offers an adjustable backrest angle.

Storage and Extra Features

The Oru Kayak Bay ST gives you two options for storing your gear – you either can use the abundant space in the cockpit, or you can stash the gear under the bungee cords on the front. It can really fit a lot of things, so it’s a good option even for long kayaking trips. Lastly, the cockpit is compatible with most standard-sized spray skirts, allowing you to use the kayak even in colder weather.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Lightweight and compact enough for taking anywhere
  • Combination of stability and speed that both beginners and experts can enjoy
  • Thick polypropylene hull guarantees durability in and out of the water
  • Plenty of storage space in the cockpit for packing all the gear you need
  • Structural bulkheads in the front and back improve overall rigidity
  • Cockpit rim fits most standard-sized spray skirts
Model & Accessory Specs

Best Use: Flatwater Kayaking
Length: 12 feet
Width: 25 inches
Weight: 28 pounds
Packed Size: 33 x 12 x 29 inches
Material: 5mm Double-Layer Polypropylene
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Setup Time: 10 to 15 minutes

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3

BEST VALUE

Oru Kayak Beach LT

Oru Kayak Beach LT


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Summary

The Oru Kayak Beach LT is the lightest and most compact model from Oru Kayak. Weighing only 26 pounds and with a size of a standard backpack, it redefines what portability means. On the water, it’s perfect for recreational paddling and beginners. The price is fantastic considering what you get, which is why it’s easily the best folding kayak in terms of value for money.

Design and Assembly

Due to its smart design, the Beach LT is incredibly easy to use. The setup takes only 5 to 10 minutes (down to 3 when you get the hang of it), making it the best option if you like quick assembly. Much like the other Oru Kayaks, the Beach LT is made of high-quality polypropylene (5mm, dual-layer) that can fold and unfold thousands of times. In addition, it easily resists punctures, abrasion, and UV rays, which is important for overall durability.

Cockpit and Seating

While smaller, the Oru Kayak Beach LT still has a very roomy cockpit. Not only can you adjust the sitting position, but you also have lots of legroom inside. Unlike the sea and touring kayaks we previously talked about, this one has a very wide cockpit opening. It makes getting in and out very easy, and even allows you to take a small child or pet on a ride with you.

Storage and Extra Features

Even though it’s not very rich in features, the Oru Kayak Beach LT is incredibly functional and pleasant to use. The spacious cockpit we mentioned has a total volume of 140 liters, meaning that you’ll have plenty of space left for storage once you’re in the kayak. And, to further improve comfort, it’s also equipped with a cushioned adjustable foot brace so your legs don’t get sore.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Ideal kayak for easy storage and transportation
  • Quick and straightforward assembly process
  • Folds several thousand times without any wear or damage
  • High-quality polypropylene hull won’t get damaged by collisions
  • Cushioned seat with adjustable backrest provides comfort
  • Made from high-quality polypropylene
Model & Accessory Specs

Best Use: Flatwater Kayaking
Length: 12 feet
Width: 28 inches
Weight: 26 pounds
Packed Size: 33 x 12 x 29 inches
Material: 5mm Double-Layer Polypropylene
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Setup Time: 5 to 10 minutes

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4

Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame

Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame


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Summary

With its aluminum-reinforced body, Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is truly unique among both folding and inflatable kayaks. It’s very rigid, has excellent stability, and handles pretty much any task on the water. It consists of three air chambers, and you can have it up and running in no time. Because of all this, it’s perhaps the best folding kayak if you prefer the inflatable type.

Design and Assembly

A fantastic thing about the AdvancedFrame kayak is that it doesn’t require any complicated assembly – you simply unfold it, inflate the chambers, attach the seat, and you’re ready to hit the water. The Spring valves allow you to finish everything in just 10 minutes, while the triple-layer polyester shell prevents any leaks and guarantees puncture-resistance. While it’s not the fastest kayak around, the rigid frame still gives it very decent performance.

Cockpit and Seating

Portability was the main focus when designing this kayak, and this is easy to notice. Measuring only 30x17x10 inches when packed, the AdvancedFrame is a highly portable kayak that can go anywhere. Despite the small folded size, it’s very spacious and comfy when set up – the cockpit has plenty of room for your legs and gear, while the adjustable seat gives excellent back support for longer paddling sessions.

Storage and Extra Features

While pretty compact, the AdvancedFrame kayak still has plenty of storage options to offer. The deck is rigged with bungee cords for quickly stashing gear, while the cockpit cover has a wide waterproof zipper so you can put items inside the cockpit and keep them dry. Last but not least, Advances Elements also includes a hand pump and a neat carry bag in the package.

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  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Reinforced with an aluminum rib frame to improve rigidity and tracking
  • Three layers of polyester for exceptional puncture-resistance
  • High-flow Spring valves make inflation and deflation fast and easy
  • Large cockpit with interior space for differently-sized kayakers
  • Waterproof front zipper creates wide cockpit access for extra storage
  • Equipped with 8-point bungee-corded storage at the bow
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best Use: Flatwater
Length: 10 feet 5 inches
Width: 34 inches
Weight: 36 pounds
Packed Size: 30 x 17 x 10 inches
Material: PVC-coated triple-layer polyester with aluminum ribs
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Setup Time: 10 minutes

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5

Intex Excursion Pro

Intex Excursion Pro


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Summary

The Intex Excursion Pro is a well-made tandem kayak that works great regardless of where you are – on the lake, the river, or on the ocean. It’s a perfect mix of comfort and performance, and it’s even equipped with rod holders so you and your buddy can catch some fish too. Despite being a tandem, the Excursion Pro is incredibly lightweight and folds very compact, so it can go with you anywhere you want.

Design and Assembly

With a 30-gauge vinyl shell and a polyester core, the Excursion Pro kayak offers impressive damage-resistance. Using the spring-loaded valves it inflates to high PSI, so it’s very rigid and stable on the water. And, for improved tracking and maneuverability, Intex equips it with two removable skegs too.

Cockpit and Seating

Both kayakers get an extra-comfy inflatable seat, so you and your buddy can properly enjoy your day on the water. The seats come with webbing straps for adjusting the backrest support, as well as inflatable booster pads that elevate your sitting position (great for fishing). Of course, seats are very easy to remove when packing. As a bonus, the kayak also has built-in floor-mounted footrests for improved leg comfort.

Storage and Extra Features

While the inflatable kayak design doesn’t allow storage hatches, the Excursion Pro kayak has plenty of room in the cockpit for all your gear. Both the bow and stern are covered with splash guards, so you can count on everything staying dry. As for the extra features, you’ll get two recessed rod holders on the sides, and a mounting bracket for your favorite fishing accessory (GPS, fish finder, etc).

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Strong construction with laminate PVC and polyester core
  • Very high inflation pressure makes it more rigid and stable
  • Two removable skegs for better tracking in deep water
  • Floor-mounted plastic footrests for both paddlers
  • Integrated fishing rod holders on the kayak sides
  • Adjustable mounting bracket for kayak accessories
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best Use: Fishing, Recreational Kayaking
Length: 12 feet 7 inches
Width: 37 inches
Weight: 39 pounds
Packed Size: 32 x 44 x 12 inches
Material: Vinyl (30 gauge)
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Setup Time: 10 to 15 minutes

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How To Choose The Best Folding Kayak – Buying Guide

How_To_Choose_The_Best_Folding_Kayak-

Ease of Assembly

Assembly is perhaps the most important aspect of your portable kayak – if it isn’t easy to do, you may as well buy a traditional kayak. On average, a well-designed foldable kayak can be set up in 10 to 15 minutes (even faster when you master the process).

In relation to this, the materials shouldn’t get damaged after folding them many times. For example, the Oru Kayak models we featured in the folding kayak reviews can endure up to 20,000 folds. And, as something that is installed separately on most foldable kayaks, the seat should also be easy to assemble and adjust in minutes.

Durability On and Off the Water

A portable kayak has more moving parts than a traditional one-piece kayak, meaning that it needs to be even tougher to withstand all the trials of use. Given that you don’t go with the cheapest kayak you can find, most of these are incredibly tough and can last for a large number of years without issues.

The main thing to consider here is material quality. The best portable kayaks are made of rugged ingredients such as PVC and polypropylene. These are great because they are strong enough to bend without breaking, and tolerate being manipulated into place.

On top of this, the foldable kayak should be watertight (not have any leaks while you’re paddling). However, keep in mind the weight capacity– all kayaks have a maximum weight that they can carry before problems start. Lastly, the kayak should be resistant to UV rays, so it doesn’t deteriorate in the sunlight.

Beam Width and Stability

When talking about stability and speed on the water, beam width and kayak length are the factors that directly determine it. A shorter folding kayak with a wider beam (over 30 inches) will be more stable, and a better choice for beginner paddlers. On the other hand, a longer portable kayak with narrower beam will be much faster, but also easier to tip.

Your kayaking skill level will show you which beam is best for you. If you’re a new kayaker, you probably want to get to grips with paddling and being in the water without having to worry about your kayak tipping. But, if you have more kayaking experience, you’ll want to go with something that can bring some excitement.

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Top Touring Kayaks

Storage and Packing

Easy storage is certainly the main benefit of having a foldable kayak, whether we’re talking about putting it in the trunk of your car or keeping it in your closet during the off-season. This allows you to have your own kayak even if you don’t have a garage to store a hardshell. Also, with a folding portable kayak, you won’t need a roof rack when transporting it.

Packing is also an important aspect, as it contributes to the overall convenience. After a long day of paddling, you want to avoid spending too much time folding the kayak. Most foldable and inflatable kayaks can be packed and ready to go within 10 minutes, so this should be considered too.

Keep in mind, however, that the most compact kayak usually won’t also be the best folding kayak to buy. While they may be convenient for transport, they might be lacking in comfort on the water. For this reason, make sure that you find a balance and get a kayak that works well from both aspects.

Weight of the Kayak

Portable kayaks are generally much lighter than one-piece hardshell kayaks, which is one more reason why so many people buy them. Depending on the kayak weight, transporting it from your car to the water can be very challenging. Not only are folding kayaks compact, but they are also easier to carry over larger distances.

The best portable kayaks can be transported comfortably by one person. Still, there are significant differences between models, and you should pay attention when choosing. If you can’t carry the extra weight or you have a long way to go from the car to the water, make sure to get a lighter option.

FAQs

What_Is_A_Folding_Kayak

Q: What Is A Foldable Kayak?

A: 

A folding kayak is a type of kayak that has a collapsible frame covered with heavy-duty waterproof material. Its main purpose is to make it easier for you to transport the kayak to the water, as well as to save you storage space at home.

The frame is usually made of aluminum tubes (like the AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak), but it can also be made of wood. The fabric on your lightweight folding kayak needs to be completely waterproof, so the choice comes down to nylon, polyester, vinyl, or synthetic rubber.

Modern foldable kayak models often feature a more sophisticated design, with connected foldable panels that have joints between them (like the Oru foldable kayaks). This not only makes the setup easier, but greatly improves the overall durability.

Q: How Do I Store A Folding Kayak?

A: 

Most folding kayaks come in their own bag (or fold into one), so storing them won’t be a problem. Still, you should be careful where you put the kayak when you’re not using it.

Always choose a dry spot, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent damage to the materials. Even the best portable kayaks can be vulnerable, so proper storage will greatly prolong their lifespan.

Q: What Is The Best Way To Pack Folding Kayaks?

A: 

This depends on the type of folding kayak that you have. If it’s an inflatable kayak, the best way to pack it is to deflate it fully and then roll it up tightly. As for Oru Kayaks and similar products, the creases between the panels will guide the process so you’ll always have a well-packed folding kayak.

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Foldable kayaks are the perfect choice if you’re always looking for new waters to explore. They are lightweight and compact, so you can just throw them in your car and go.

At the same time, the best portable kayaks perform just like hard shells, offering impressive stability and speed. With the help of our folding kayak reviews, we’re sure you’ll find a model that will allow you to explore and enjoy the water even more.

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