Best_Whitewater_Kayaks

If you enjoy an adrenaline rush and want more excitement on the water, whitewater kayaking is perfect for you. By requiring you to focus more and overcome challenges that come with fast-paced rapids, this type of kayaking truly takes the experience to a higher level.

Due to the intensity of this activity, a standard kayak isn’t the best choice here. If you want to stay safe and have fun, you’ll need a whitewater kayak that is up to the task – balanced, responsive, and highly maneuverable. Whether you’re an experienced whitewater kayaker or just getting started, the best whitewater kayaks from our list will allow you to confidently tackle even demanding rapids.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Dagger Rewind Whitewater Kayak

Dagger Rewind Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

The Dagger Rewind is a fantastic river kayak that handles even class V rapids. It’s incredibly responsive and easy to control, so kayakers of all skill levels can enjoy it on the water. On top of this, the Rewind kayak is available in three great-looking color combinations that are guaranteed to make you stand out on the water.

Construction and Design

Made from rugged polyethylene, the Dagger Rewind withstands an occasional hit while going down the river. The cockpit is roomy for a whitewater kayak and comes equipped with a padded adjustable seat. As a bonus, the kayak also features leg braces for foot comfort, as well as thigh braces on the sides that give you increased control when steering.

Performance in Rapids

To make the kayak more playful in the rapids, the Dagger Rewind comes with uneven volume distribution. The stern is tapered and has less volume, while the bow is larger and has a rocker for easier handling. The performance is great in any type of whitewater (class I to class V) which makes it an excellent river runner kayak for beginners and experts alike.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Excellent handling even in very difficult rapids
  • Plenty of bow and stern volume makes the ride playful
  • Leg lifters and foot braces for comfort while riding
  • Thigh braces provide additional control when turning
  • Safety wall makes getting in and out of the kayak easier
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Fast Rapids (up to Class V)
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 9 feet 4 inches
Width: 27 inches
Weight: 47 pounds
Material: Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 260 pounds

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Perception Joyride 10 Whitewater Kayak

Perception Joyride 10 Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

If you’re new to whitewater kayaking, the Perception Joyride 10 is probably the best whitewater kayak for beginners. While it might be less playful than its competition, it offers excellent stability and control while you’re in the rapids. In addition, its versatile design allows you to also use it for recreational paddling in calm water.

Construction and Design

At 10 feet long, the Joyride 10 offers a good balance between speed and maneuverability. The hull is made from polyethylene with excellent resistance not only to abrasion and impacts but also to UV damage from sun exposure. We should also mention that it comes with bulkheads on both sides that add buoyancy and prevent the kayak from flooding and sinking if too much water gets inside.

Performance in Rapids

Despite being an all-around model, the Perception Joyride performs really well in slower and moderately-fast rapids. This is mostly due to its hull design that keeps the kayak stable even when water hits it on the sides. In terms of volume, it’s pretty even on both ends of the kayak to ensure good stability even if you’re inexperienced in whitewater.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Versatile design for both whitewater and calm water
  • 10-foot hull fits both adults and kids equally well
  • Selfie Slot for securing your phone and taking photos
  • Large dry storage hatch with a hinged lid at the stern
  • Zone Deluxe breathable seat with leg lifting feature
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-Around Kayaking
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 10 feet
Width: 29.5 inches
Weight: 50 pounds
Material: Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 275 pounds

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3

BEST VALUE

Advanced Elements Attack Whitewater Kayak

Advanced Elements Attack Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

In terms of portability and convenience, the Advanced Elements Attack might be the most practical model in our whitewater kayak reviews. It’s an inflatable kayak, which means that it packs very small and allows you to take it anywhere with you. However, don’t let the fact that it’s inflatable fool you – it’s incredible on the whitewater and handles fast currents really well.

Construction and Design

The body of the Attack kayak is made from heavy-duty PVC that is reinforced with Tarpaulin to ensure that rocks don’t tear it when going down the river. We like that it’s made from independent bladders so you won’t sink if one of them is damaged. The deck design is very functional and includes a comfy adjustable seat and thigh straps that prevent you from falling out of the kayak.

Performance in Rapids

While it doesn’t come with a rapid class rating, kayakers have used it in fast waters very successfully. The kayak comes with a 12-inch rise on both bow and stern which keeps it on the surface and allows you to make sharper turns when navigating. Finally, it's a fairly cheap white water kayak which is a plus if your budget is limited.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Puncture-resistant reinforced PVC Tarpaulin hull
  • Thigh straps provide additional kayak control
  • Independent air bladders for additional safety
  • Molded rubber handles make carrying convenient
  • 12-inch rise on both ends for tackling waves easily
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Portability
Kayak Type: Inflatable
Length: 9 feet 6 inches
Width: 35 inches
Weight: 34 pounds
Material: PVC, Tarpaulin
Maximum Capacity: 225 pounds

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4

Aquaglide McKenzie 105 Whitewater Kayak

Aquaglide McKenzie 105 Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

The Aquaglide McKenzie 105 is a hybrid kayak that you can use for both calm recreational paddling as well as intense runs down the river. By design, it’s an inflatable kayak that comes in a carry backpack for easier transportation. The thing we like about this model is the cozy deck design that makes it the most excellent whitewater kayak if you’re putting an accent on comfort.

Construction and Design

Owing to its Duratex hull with welded seams, the McKenzie 105 shows impressive strength and durability. For additional rigidity, the floor features the EvoBeam technology that makes it very rigid. The kayak comes with a comfy and adjustable Core 2 seat that features a high back for extra support. In addition, the seat is easily removable to make packing the kayak more convenient.

Performance in Rapids

While you probably won’t be able to use in class IV and V rapids, the Aquaglide McKenzie performs really well in moving water. The secret behind this is not only its hull design but also the inclusion of a Posi-Track fin that improves the kayak tracking. Finally, the kayak has splash guards on both ends, but even if water gets inside the four mesh drains will get it out quickly.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Strong Duratex hull with leak-proof welded seams
  • Four mesh drains easily eliminate water from the cockpit
  • Core 2 seat with a multi-position adjustable backrest
  • Built-in Posi-Track fin improves kayak tracking
  • EvoBeam floor construction makes the kayak rigid
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Comfort
Kayak Type: Inflatable
Length: 10.2 feet
Width: 33.5 inches
Weight: 24 pounds
Material: Duratex
Maximum Capacity: 300 pounds

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5

Dagger Nomad Whitewater Kayak

Dagger Nomad Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

One thing that separates the Dagger Nomad from the rest is its cockpit size that is slightly smaller compared to most other whitewater models. Because of this, it became a top rated whitewater kayak for people with smaller body frames who are after a snug fit that gives them precision and ultimate control of the kayak.

Construction and Design

Even though it’s a bit smaller, the Nomad doesn’t skimp on comfort. The cockpit is equipped with Contour Ergo outfitting that allows you to easily adjust everything and find the perfect paddling position. In addition, you’ll also get ConTour hip pads and precision-adjustable thigh braces on the sides for leaning in when making turns.

Performance in Rapids

With a volume of 276 liters, this kayak will easily stay afloat even in rougher water. Be mindful, however, not to exceed its weight limit that is set to 170 pounds. It should also be noted that it’s equipped with sealed bulkheads on both ends which means that there is no chance of flooding and sinking. The kayak is fast, playful, and provides a very exciting ride even in lower rapid classes.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • High-volume design for improved whitewater performance
  • Large rocker makes the kayak incredibly responsive
  • Tank-style molded seat provides both comfort and control
  • Backband easily adjusts with a ratchet system
  • Contour Ergo kayak outfitting for additional strength and security
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Small Kayakers
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 8 feet 2 inches
Width: 25.75 inches
Weight: 43.5 pounds
Material: Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 170 pounds

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6

Jackson Kayak Mix Master 7 Whitewater Kayak

Jackson Kayak Mix Master 7 Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

Thanks to its low-volume bow construction, the Jackson Kayak Mix Master 7 is incredibly responsive when you’re navigating through the rapids. Because of this, it may be the best beginner whitewater kayak because it tolerates mistakes and allows you to quickly set things straight.

Construction and Design

The hull of the Mix Master 7 is made from linear polyethylene so it won’t be damaged on rougher rides. A thing we really like is the performance-oriented hull shape that makes it very fast and playful on the water. When talking about the cockpit, it comes with an adjustable seat, a cup holder in the middle, and a GoPro mount so you can record your adventures.

Performance in Rapids

As we’ve mentioned, this kayak puts an accent on performance and agility in the whitewater. Because of this, you can even use it in faster and more dangerous rapids. At the same time, it allows you to perform tricks and practice stunts. Despite the price being far from cheap white water kayaks, we feel that the Mix Master 7 may be the best river running kayak if you want to get serious about the sport.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Performance-shaped hull easily kayaks whitewater
  • Low-volume bow construction makes it responsive
  • Ergonomic cockpit shape raises the comfort level
  • Adjustable seat allows finding the perfect position
  • Cup holder in the middle fits a Nalgene water bottle
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Learning and Practicing
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 6 feet 10 inches
Width: 24.5 inches
Weight: 31 pounds
Material: Linear Polyethylene

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7

Jackson Kayak Nirvana Whitewater Kayak

Jackson Kayak Nirvana Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

For those of you who plan to take part in racing, the Jackson Kayak Nirvana is the best kayak for river running you can get. The hull comes with a unique shape that allows it to build up speed easily without losing control on the water. In addition, the Nirvana features the Uni-shock bulkhead that withstands hits and prevents the water from leaking into the kayak interior.

Construction and Design

The hull we’ve mentioned is made from extra-tough composite materials. For additional strength, it features a thermoformed U channel in the middle as well as reinforcements on the sides. The design focuses on whitewater performance, so you’ll be getting features like armor outfitting, Sure-Lock backband system, and several tie-downs for securing your kit.

Performance in Rapids

The speed that this kayak can achieve even in slower rapids is very impressive, which comes as a direct result of the streamlined hull shape. However, the bow of the Nirvana kayak comes with a high rocker that helps improve maneuverability and makes steering easier. Lastly, like all the other high-end whitewater models, it comes with a special GoPro mount on the front for recording your runs.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Streamlined hull provides speed when racing
  • Long profile helps keep the kayak afloat in whitewater
  • Uni-shock bulkhead significantly softens the impacts
  • Screwed-in GoPro mounts for recording your ride
  • Webbing loops make carrying the kayak easy
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Racing
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 8 feet 11 inches (medium), 9 feet 4 inches (large)
Width: 26.5 inches (medium), 27.5 inches (large)
Weight: 44.5 pounds (medium), 51 pounds (large)
Material: Reinforced Composite
Maximum Capacity: 210 pounds (medium), 270 pounds (large)

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8

Jackson Kayak Antix Whitewater Kayak

Jackson Kayak Antix Whitewater Kayak


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Summary

The combination of a slicey stern and a planing hull ranks the Jackson Kayak Antix as one of the best whitewater kayaks for tricks, carving, and creeking. The kayak is available in three different sizes, allowing all paddlers to feel the excitement of tackling whitewater.

Construction and Design

To ensure the kayak nose stays on the surface, the Antix is designed with a high-volume bow. Like other Jackson models, it’s made from a reinforced composite that can take hits without denting or breaking. The cockpit is pretty large relative to the kayak length and provides very decent comfort. The seat is padded and adjustable, so you won’t feel sore even after a rougher ride on the river.

Performance in Rapids

In terms of playfulness, the Antix is one of the best kayaks for whitewater that you’ll come across. It’s incredibly fun and allows you to do things that you couldn’t in most other models. At the same time, it’s equipped with a Uni-shock bulkhead and a U-channel hull for increased safety on the water.

  • What Makes This Kayak For Whitewater Stand Out
  • Slicey stern makes it the best creeking kayak available
  • Planed hull for an ideal mix of handling and stability
  • U-Channel hull tracks improve safety on the water
  • Lightweight construction makes transportation easier
  • Built-in mount for a standard GoPro action camera
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Performing Tricks
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Length: 7 feet 4 inches (small), 7 feet 9 inches (medium), 8 feet 1 inch (large)
Width: 27 inches (large)
Weight: 42 pounds (large)
Material: Reinforced Composite
Maximum Capacity: 250 pounds (large)

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How To Choose A Whitewater Kayak – Buying Guide

How_to_Buy_a_Whitewater_Kayak

Hull Shape

With the advancements in materials and technology, the highest-performing kayaks are no longer skinny and long like they were a decade ago. Nowadays, kayaks are becoming shorter and rounded, shaped more like a log. According to multiple tests (both live and simulated), the stability and performance of log-shaped kayaks are far superior to traditional ones.

That being said, you can still choose between a planing hull (flat) and a displacement hull (round). A planing hull creates more resistance in aggressive waters, so it’s often found on the best river runner kayaks. On the other hand, a displacement hull is better for tracking and tipping from edge to edge, but offers less stability and maneuverability.

Speed

You might think that the speed isn’t an issue when talking about the best whitewater kayaking models, since the water is fast anyway. However, even though the kayak doesn’t need to further add speed, it should be able to handle that speed. Because of this, a heavy and slow kayak is harder to control through shifting rapids, which might slow you down.

Rapid Class

To better display the properties of a river or a rapid, experts agreed on an internationally-recognized level system that ranges from level I to level VI. Non-moving waters like lakes are classified as class A waters, while all others have their place on the scale.

For example, a class I rapid is fairly slow and easy to navigate, while class V and VI rapids are fast and very difficult to handle. When shopping for the best kayaks for rapids, be sure to check whether the model has been greenlighted for the rapid class you want to tackle.

Safety Features

Due to the nature of the sport, you should expect the kayak to capsize sometimes and you should be ready when it happens. Unfortunately, there isn’t yet a kayak that can guarantee that it won’t capsize in the dynamic whitewater environment.

The best thing you can do to improve safety is to respect all the recommendations and precautions given by your instructor and always wear a life jacket for kayaking. Also, if you’re not a very experienced paddler, we recommend choosing the most excellent whitewater kayaks for beginners, since those will focus on putting safety first and performance second.

It’s good to know your kayaking safety tips to make sure you are well prepared for your journey. This includes aspects such as kayak self-rescue to ensure that you can get out of any tricky situation you may find yourself in.

Comfort

In theory, the more comfortable you feel in your river runner kayak, the more control you will have when tackling the rapids. In reality, this is true only up to a certain point because there is somewhat of a tradeoff between comfort and control. A more comfortable kayak often means added size and weight, which may be counterproductive on whitewater.

Because of this, we think it’s best to always consult the white water kayak size guide and get a model that is ideally sized for your body frame. After you’ve picked among the different types of whitewater kayaks, you can focus on other aspects like cockpit shape, the type of seat you’ll be getting, and whether the boat has foot braces.

Related Post: Whitewater Kayaking Gear

FAQs

How_to_Roll_a_Whitewater_Kayak

Q: How to Roll a Whitewater Kayak?

A: 

Rolling a kayak designed for whitewater requires a bit more skill than rolling a standard kayak. Due to the environmental factors that you can’t control, you should expect to sometimes swim when rolling it.

This being said, the easiest technique is the C2C roll which is very similar to the move required to flip yourself back up if you capsize. Alternatively, you can sometimes use the sweep roll or the hand roll. Be sure to ask your instructor to show you the technique and practice it so you can react properly on the water.

Q: Why Do People Kayak Whitewater?

A: 

Even though the adrenaline rush is the main reason for kayaking on whitewater, it isn’t the only thing that draws people to the activity. In addition to the excitement it gives you, it also allows you to see incredible scenery from a unique perspective and fully enjoy nature.

Q: How to Surf With A Whitewater Kayak?

A: 

Owing to their unique design, surfing whitewater kayaks is fairly easy. If you wish to practice front surfing, creek kayaks will practically do this on their own without much skill required. On the other hand, side surfing in the best river runner kayak may require some practice. Either way, we suggest that you get an instructor if you’re serious about kayak surfing.

Globo Surf Overview

While it’s not for the faint of heart, whitewater kayaking can be one of the most amazing experiences you’ll ever have on the water. If you’re a little bored with the usual water sports, this is something you definitely need to try. We hope that our reviews and guide helped you find a whitewater kayak that will give you the adrenaline rush you seek.

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