The-Best-Inflatable-Kayaks

Thanks to its compact and portable design, an inflatable kayak is the perfect option for exploring new waters. The best inflatable kayak allows you to take it pretty much anywhere and set it up on the spot – something that isn’t possible with a traditional kayak.

With huge advancements in material quality and construction, modern inflatable kayaks have become very durable and reliable on the water. To help you choose the right one, we’ll use this article to discuss the 10 best inflatable kayaks available right now. In addition, be sure to also check out the buying guide if you want to learn more about their features.

How To Choose The Perfect Inflatable Kayak – Buying Guide

Kayaks are designed to be able to go anywhere. Paddling into the open water on a hot day provides peace and serenity. Now imagine being able to carry your kayak to the beach in a compact backpack. Often inflatable kayaks are around twelve feet in length which make storing them a challenge. Especially for those without roof racks or who live in an apartment, turning to an inflatable kayak will give you easy storage without compromising on durability. Being able to easily transport and store makes inflatable kayaks ideal for outdoor people who don’t have the space to store rigid kayaks. It also makes portaging your kayak much easier as you have the best option to deflate, and don’t have to worry about cracking your kayak.

What Is The Top Rated Inflatable Kayak To Buy?

There are many features to know and understand before you purchase your next inflatable kayak. We have constructed a inflatable kayak for fishing review guide for you to consider before taking the plunge to purchase your own. Inflatable kayaks differ from their rigid cousins quite a bit. It is important to know the differences between the features.

Materials

This is a water vessel that will transport you and possibly your children into open water so the material needs to be highly durable and strong. Since you will be deflating and storing it when you’re done it also has to be flexible and able to bend without breaking.

  • When Zodiacs were first invented they used a material called Hypalon. It is an exceptionally durable material that doesn’t flex or bend. Because of this, it is heavy and can be cumbersome to move around. It is also very rigid for a fabric like material, retaining its shape for its entire life. For these reasons it is used for inflatables, but rarely used for inflatable kayaks.
  • The most common type of material used to construct inflatable kayaks is PVC. This is a strong material that can be inflated to a relatively high PSI. It is also lightweight and can be folded and reused. Also, PVC seams can be welded instead of stitched providing a superior construction compared to glue. This is why PVC is one of the go-to materials for inflatable kayaks.
  • Nitrylon is another widely used material. It is much more eco-friendly than PVC and is essentially synthetic and natural rubber coating a 1200D fabric. This creates a puncture and abrasion resistant system that is easy to patch and stronger than PVC. The only downfall is that it is heavy so it is usually used on the bottom and sides of kayaks where it regularly comes in contact with the ground.

Weight of Kayak

Most inflatable kayak reviews agree that the weight of your kayak is among the most important of considerations. Being inflatable ensures that these are easy to transport – and is the best option for solo users. Being lightweight ensures that you are able to further transport your kayak with ease, thus increasing your ability to use it. It is also an important consideration when going on extended trips that may require portaging.

Length

What-is-the-best-inflatable-kayak-to-buy

A typical inflatable kayak will be around 12 feet long. This gives them good stability in the water while allowing them to fit two people. Inflatable Kayaks can be as long as 16 feet while being as short as 10. These different sizes allow them to do different things. Just keep in mind if it is just you setting this kayak up. A longer one will be more difficult to get to the water and may require a kayak dolly to assist you.

Self-Bailing

This feature is usually found on whitewater inflatable kayaks. A self-bailing system is essentially holes at the bottom of the kayak that lets water out of the hull. The downfall to this is kayaks that do not have plugs will let a little water back in when on calmer waters. If you plan on using your kayak for rapids we recommend looking for a self-bailing system which has plugs or a one-way valve which will not allow water to flow back into the kayak.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of your inflatable kayak can vary between 350 and 700 pounds. When looking to purchase one you should consider what you’re using it for. Are you going to be transporting more than one person? If you are going to be transporting people from the shore to a sailboat, for example, you should factor this into your decision. If you are going to use this kayak to get to the hard to reach fishing spots you should think about how much gear will you pack with you and how heavy it is.

Seating Capacity

You might not want to bring someone with you every weekend, but it may be nice once in awhile. A second seat can also be a good place to put a cooler for drinks or your tackle box and rod for fishing. A second seat is also great if you are going out on the water with kids or bringing a dog along for the ride. They can experience the front seat and be on the water with you.

Accessories/package

Inflatable kayaks usually come in a package that includes everything you need to get on the water. These packages make inflatable kayaks affordable because you don’t have to purchase everything separately.

Look for inflatable kayak packages that include these items:

  • A pump is required to inflate the kayak to it’s recommended PSI while it needs a skeg – a fin system – to keep it on the right path.
  • Up to two paddles and seats are included to get you moving along the water to places you never imagined. These paddles are double sided and are the same that are used on rigid kayaks.
  • Some kayaks even come with removable skegs. These are essential fins on the bottom of a kayak that helps you navigate through the water. This will help you to go in a straight line and is a great feature, especially for new paddlers.
  • If you are an avid fisher keep your eye out for kayaks that have rod holders. These will allow you to fish in comfort and not have to worry about holding your rod all day long. Some have vertical holders while others even have trolling ones, and since there is no motor you don’t have to worry about scaring the fish away.
  • Since these are highly capable kayaks we strongly recommend to bring enough life vests for every person on the kayak. These will come in handy in dangerous water and can actually save your life.

Advantage Of Having An Inflatable Kayak

When you are looking for your next kayak there are a lot of options to choose from. Deciding to opt for an inflatable kayak, you will find you are faced with many advantages. This preferred type of boat excels in portability and versatility. With so many advantages, it is no wonder so many paddlers are turning to this style boat.

Lightweight

This style of kayak lacks the heavy plastic of most kayaks making it a much lighter option. The lightweight materials used to make these inflatable kayaks makes it so that almost everyone can transport it with ease. This makes it even more accessible for people.

Storage

As inflatable kayaks often stretch longer than 10 feet long, storing them can be difficult. With an inflatable kayak, you can simply deflate it to fit into a backpack or duffel bag. This makes them small enough to fit almost anywhere. Being able to store your kayak on a shelf or closet is specifically ideal for those that live in apartments or areas that have less storage.

Take Them Anywhere

Having an inflatable kayak opens up doors for you to paddle in even more places. You will no longer be limited by roof racks and places your car can go. Their small size allows you to pack your kayak on your back and bring it with you everywhere you go. These kayaks often come with a duffel bag or carrying bag included. This allows you to bring your kayak with you on flights, trips and to remote locations. This feature will help you get even more use out of your kayak.

Versatility

Inflatable kayaks are one of the most versatile types you can get. They are not only great for everything from lakes, to rivers to even whitewater, but are also super easy to store and transport. You don’t need a huge garage to keep this safe. If you have even a small apartment you’ll be able to simply throw in in a closet and it’ll be out of the way. When you want to go to the beach you can load it into the trunk of a small car and still have room for a cooler as well.

Maintenance And Upkeep

You don’t have to worry about as much maintenance with an inflatable as a rigid kayak. For the most part, they will bounce off rocks without being seriously affected. But at the same time inflatables are more susceptible to puncture. This is why most companies include a repair kit.

You should also ensure your kayak is dry before packing it up. If you store it when it’s wet it could accumulate mold and mildew. This can make the kayak start degrading before it should. To combat this plan to spend a little longer at the beach as your kayak dries. You can even bring a towel to dry it before packing up.

Security

Having an inflatable kayak means you will no longer have to store your inflatable boat exposed on the top of your car. Instead, you can deflate it and store it securely in the trunk of your car. This means that you will not have to worry about it getting stolen or be forced to go straight home before and after your trip to the water. The peace of mind you will receive from having your kayak secure will be a welcomed thing when it comes to transporting your kayak.

Single Or Tandem?

It is important to decide if you would like a solo or tandem kayak before starting your search. If there is a chance that you will be paddling with someone else, you will be better suited to go with the best tandem inflatable kayak. These are ideal because they can easily be paddled solo as well. Simply move the seats around to be in the center of the boat for an easy solo paddle as well.

Going with a tandem inflatable kayak will provide you with the best options. Not only is this type of kayak ideal for those looking to bring along a friend, but they are also a great way to bring along even more gear. You can even bring your dog along for your paddle. This type of kayak is especially ideal for families. Some inflatable kayaks even allow you to carry up to 3 people.

Are You Going To Use It While Fishing?

Many fishermen turns to kayaks to get to the best fish. This small boat breathes leisure allowing you to maneuver into the middle of a calm lake with fishing gear on deck. Some kayaks are much better for fishing than others. Many fishermen enjoys using sit on top kayaks as they allow you to move around with more ease. For those looking to fish you will want to get a stable boat with a lot of storage as you will likely have a lot of gear along with you.

Where Will You Use It?

The water type will play a large role in determining the right kayak for you. If you plan on using it in calm water the kayak will need different features than one being used on the ocean.

Your Height And Weight

If you can’t comfortably fit into your kayak you will not use it. It’s best to know that you can sit in it without having to bend your knees to do so without discomfort. This can be determined by looking at the dimensions of the kayak. You can even measure your leg length when sitting so you will be 100% sure the kayak is right for you.

How Comfortable Are You Getting In And Out Of It?

The kayak you choose will need to be able to enter and exit. You should ensure the center of gravity is lower so it won’t tip in rougher waters. Knowing how to enter a kayak from the water will also need to be something you learn as well.

What Type Of Weather Are You Going To Be In?

Mother Nature can affect the type of kayak and it’s accessories you need. If you live in the Pacific Northwest you will want to invest in a bailing system to keep your kayak from filling with rain water. Spray skirts will also ensure rough water doesn’t fill your boat with water as well.

Do You Need A Self Bailing Kayak?

Self bailing kayaks have a one way drain valve that ensures your kayak doesn’t fill up with water. Kayaks with self bailing systems will never fill up with water. These are typically designed for rougher conditions like white water and ocean situations. This system isn’t necessary if you don’t plan on paddling through areas like this.

Types of Kayaks

Types-of-inflatable-kayaks

Just like regular kayaks, inflatables have different categories and shapes. We suggest thinking about what you will use your kayak for before your purchase as the styles will differ depending on your use.

Sit on top kayak

This type of kayak is where you sit higher than the other styles. People who are claustrophobic and don’t like to feel trapped should strongly consider this make. Your feet are not inside the hull which makes it easier to get in and out. Keep in mind that this can be a wet ride even in the smallest wake. We recommend using this type in warmer weather places and in still water where the water is warm. It is also less sturdy than other kayaks so it will require you to have more skill and core muscles.

Sit inside kayak

Looking like the typical kayak, the sit inside type will perform very similarly to its more rigid cousin. This kayak will keep you dry even in rougher water as your feet are not exposed. This allows a more sophisticated bungee system because it has the space over your feet to work with. Some of these have the ability to add a spray skirt for really rough water and colder days.

Canoe style

For those looking for a partner when on the water look for a canoe style kayak. This has the shape of a regular kayak but give you the portability of an inflatable. Coming with two seats and storage space, this is a good way to get to the hard to reach places for a weekend trip. Instead of the regular kayak paddles you can use dedicated canoe paddles. These are only one sided paddles.

Open style

Featuring higher sidewalls and lower seats the open style kayak is the shape of a canoe, but the stability of a kayak. This is usually a one seater and uses the dedicated kayak paddles. The deck on this type is completely open but can have a spray cover available for the high wake.

Water conditions

Kayaks will have specific functions and features in regards to the type of water they are made for. For example, an inflatable kayak made for white water will not perform as well on flat calm water.

White water

An inflatable kayak for whitewater will have specific features for the fast-moving water. It usually will not have a tracking fin as it could hit rocks and give you too much steering. These kayaks will also have the self-bailing option that kayaks meant for flat water will not have. We recommend looking for kayaks that have a watertight storage option if you plan on entering the class III rapids with gear.

Open ocean

When paddling in the ocean it is recommended to have a longer kayak. This will give you the stability and support for traversing large swells. These will typically have high sidewalls that combat rough water and spray from the wind.

Lake

Kayaks that are designed for flat water such as lakes have lower walls, possibly an open concept, and lots of storage space. Not having to deal with high waves or rough conditions allows them to focus more on the experience and not keeping you safe and dry. If you are trying to get to the island in the middle of the lake for a secluded weekend this is your best ride.

FAQs

How-Much-Do-Inflatable-Kayaks-Cost

Q: How Much Do Inflatable Kayaks Cost?

A: 

Inflatable kayaks can cost anywhere from $150 to over $1000. There is such a large range of prices due to the quality of the kayak. An inflatable kayak package (which includes a pump, carrying bag, paddles, and a patch kit) will fit right into the middle at around $550.

Q: How Do I Inflate A Kayak?

A: 

You can inflate your kayak in a number of different ways. It likely came with a hand pump but if that doesn’t suit you, you have other options. You can use also use a foot pump if you have back or upper body problems. This type of pump is much easier to operate. If you have an electric pump lying around or are willing to invest the money in one this is definitely the easiest way to go. This type of pump can be plugged into your car and do all the hard work of inflating your kayak. This allows you to get into the water faster. Be sure to check your kayak to see what type of valve it has for inflation.

Q: How Do I Paddle An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

It may feel foreign to be in an inflatable kayak the first time you hop in but the truth is they are much the same as plastic ones. Oftentimes, they are even more durable. Paddling in one is exactly the same as if you were in a traditional kayak. A double sided kayak paddle makes this easy.

Q: How Do I Choose An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

The first thing to decide is if you want a traditional style sit-in kayak or if you would prefer a sit on top kayak. Both have benefits and largely depend on your intended use. For example, if you would like to use your kayak for fishing you will be looking for one with special features. Deciding if you need a tandem or single kayak is also important. From there, choose the kayak with the right weight limits for your intended use and your desired amount of storage. The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set checks off all the boxes as one of our favorite inflatable kayaks on the market. As a bonus, the price is right!

Q: How Long Do Inflatable Kayaks Last?

A: 

Your inflatable kayak can last just as long as plastic kayaks if cared for properly. They have nearly endless positive features. When caring for your kayak, be sure to wash it after every use. This can be as simple as hosing it off after every use. This should be done when paddling in fresh water as well as salt water as there are microbes in the water that can cause mildew growth. Once your kayak is rinsed you should allow it to fully air dry in the shade. Following that you can deflate it and store out of direct sunlight. This will greatly increase the lifespan of your kayak and allow it to last for many years to come.

Q: Are Inflatable Kayaks Durable?

A: 

Yes! With more and more people going towards inflatable kayaks rather than hard ones they are being made better than ever. Using high quality military grade PVC these kayaks are built to last. Being easy to store and transport you run less of a risk of your kayak being damaged as it features more protection than before. The material used for these are so thick that you can even bring your dog with you on your trip.

Q: How Do I Find A Leak In My Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

If your kayak seems to be losing air you may have a leak. If you have no idea where it is you can simply look for bubbles. This may mean that you have to get in the water along the shore to get a better look. Start at one side and work your way around the boat. If you still can’t find it take your gear off and flip the kayak on its back. Do the same – look for bubbles starting at one side and work your way around.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that if you inflate your kayak in the morning the air pressure can fluctuate during the day. You may not have a leak and just have to give it a few more pumps of air.

Q: How Do I Patch An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

Your inflatable will come with a patch kit in case you do experience any damage. While these inflatable kayaks are incredibly durable and are likely to not experience any issues, it is always good to be prepared. Patch kits will come with marine grade super glue and all the tools you need to do the job. After locating the hole you can simply patch it up with lots of glue and head back into the water.

Q: How To Dry An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

The biggest draw to inflatable kayaks is that they are incredibly easy to store. While this is true, you will want to take special care when deflating and storing your kayak. It is important to not store a wet kayak. Instead, waiting until your boat is completely dry before deflating is important. Otherwise, you may risk some water getting caught in the folds of your kayak which could cause mildew to form.

When maintaining your kayak, we always recommend allowing the time for your boat to air dry naturally. Be sure to put your kayak in a covered area that is away from direct sunlight and allow to dry. Avoid putting your kayak in direct sunlight to dry. This will cause your kayak to fade and show wear at a much faster rate.

You will want to put your boat upside down in order to drain any sitting water. While you can towel dry to speed the process up, we don’t recommend relying on that solely as you will likely miss quite a few spots.

Q: How Do I Modify An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

Inflatable kayaks aren’t meant to be modified like a traditional kayak. You can’t drill a hole in the shell and add a cup holder or fishing rod holder. But there are things you can do to make an inflatable kayak better for your use. Accessories will become your friend. This can range from waterproof bags to anchors and even paddle splash guards. You can even get inflatable pontoons to add more stability to your kayak if you want to do things like fish with it.

Q: How To Get Back In An Overturned Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

Getting into an inflatable kayak from the water is a crucial skill you should know before getting on the water. Nobody wants to have to do this but understanding how to can save your life in a bad situation. This will be the same as a rigid kayak.

You will want to get behind the seat, pull yourself out of the water while swinging your leg over the entire width of the kayak. When you’re on top you will want to put your hands stretched out in front of your legs and shimmy your way towards the cockpit. Once you are close enough put your legs inside it while you use your hands to balance and stabilize your body.

Q: How To Clean An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

It is important to maintain your kayak when not in use. When done properly, cleaning and maintaining your kayak doesn’t take very long and can greatly increase the lifespan of your boat. You will want to clean your boat after every use with special attention to it before you deflate your kayak and store. This will help to prevent mildew from growing on your kayak.

To clean your kayak, you should be able to simply hose your boat off with fresh water. This is important to help get the salt off your boat when heading to sea. Even if you are paddling in lakes you will find that microbes attach to your boat making it incredibly important to clean. Using your hose thoroughly rinse your kayak while it is still inflated. Make sure to allow your kayak to thoroughly dry in a shaded area.

You will want to keep your kayak out of direct sunlight as much as possible. This will prevent your boat from fading and help to keep it looking sharp. Once your inflatable boat has been cleaned and thoroughly dried you will want to store it in a cool dry place.

Q: How To Fold An Inflatable Kayak?

A: 

When you’re taking your inflatbale kayak out of the box for the first time you will want to take note of how the manufacturer folded it. You will want to mimic this when you pack it up after your day on the water. If you forget how to do it there are a few things you should keep in mind. Try not to fold the seams too much. This is the weakest point on the inflatable boat and any damage to this area will be magnified when it’s fully inflated. Another thing to keep in mind is the bungee system. Ensure it won’t catch or snag when you’re putting it into or taking it out of the bag you store it in.

Globo Surf Overview

Getting involved in outdoor water sports is a great way to clear your mind and take a new angle on an adventure. Having the top inflatable kayak will ensure that you are able to make the most of your new activity. Being easy to transport with a lightweight design makes it so that solo adventures are more easily accessible. Inflatable kayaks are also a great idea for those who live in smaller square footage or don’t have roof racks. After all, kayaking shouldn’t cost tons of money and is the best option for a great time crusing down the river with your friends.

A great way to go fishing or for long distance paddles, these are made with a highly durable material ensuring you are able to enjoy your day on the lake to the fullest. They will take you to places you never thought possible. Always wanted to paddle to the other side of the lake? These are the most excellent inflatable kayaks that will get you there.

More Kayak Reviews:

Do you have any of the top rated inflatable kayaks on our list? Let us know how you like it in the comment section below.