Best Inflatable Kayak

If you love water adventures, but don’t have enough space to keep a kayak. No worries, inflatable kayaks are here to solve your problem. As the name suggests, you can inflate and deflate them according to your requirements. Due to this flexibility, inflatable kayaks can fit even in the smallest places. There are many inflatable kayaks available in the market and online stores. But they vary quality-wise.

Many people don’t consider inflatable kayaks to be safe for water adventures, but this is truly a myth. Inflatable kayaks are different from rigid or hard-shell kayaks, yet they exhibit equivalent features. They are more flexible, customizable, comfortable, and buoyant as compared to hard-shell kayaks, provided that you choose the right one. With the modernization of technology, inflatable kayaks are becoming more popular due to their versatile nature.

Kayaking can be experienced at its best with the best quality kayak that is safe. Keeping your safety in mind we have created a list of the 9 best kayaks along with the advantages and disadvantages of buying them. We have explained all the features of a good and safe kayak along with the buying guide that will help you to choose the right one.

Advantages of Inflatable Kayak

Everything has its good and bad side, just like that there are many advantages and disadvantages of using a kayak. Before purchasing a kayak, it’s better to analyze both the sides of inflatable kayak. This analysis will help you in making a better choice.

Pros

• Easy Storage: The top-most benefit of an inflatable kayak is that it doesn’t require a large space for storage. You can fit it even in the smallest spaces by de-assembling and deflating them.
• Portable: Another advantage of using an inflatable kayak is portability. You don’t need to worry about carrying a kayak, rather you can easily carry it in your car while going out for a water adventure.
• Light-Weight: Despite being lightweight (around 25 to 30 pounds), inflatable kayaks are capable of carrying a weight up to 600 pounds.
• Comfortable: Inflatable kayaks are easily customizable according to your preferences. People of all age groups can comfortably enjoy the water adventures with inflatable kayaks. Kayaking using an inflatable kayak is preferable for fishing and exploring rivers, lakes, etc.
• Durable and Stable: High-quality kayaks are puncture-free and durable. They have air-filled tubes that make them more stable and buoyant in the water.
• Cost-Effective: Inflatable kayaks are cost-effective as compared to hard-shell kayaks. They are the best choice for a water sports lover because of their budget-friendly nature. Water adventures are fun with inflatable and easily portable kayaks.
• Maintenance: Inflatable kayaks don’t require large maintenance costs as compared to hard-shell kayaks. They don’t need much effort and repair if used properly and carefully. They generally come with a repair kit for emergency cases.

Cons

• Control: Inflatable kayaks don’t provide much control in strong winds and unfavorable water currents. They are not suitable for rough kayaking with strong winds and unfavorable water currents.
• Inflating: Either you are inflating manually or with a motor-powered pump, it requires a lot of time to inflate every single part of the kayak.
• Deflating: While deflating you need to make sure to clean every inch of the kayak properly because even small residues can cause the formation of mildews on the rubber surface, which can damage your kayak.

Features of Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable kayaks should have the following features from a safety point of view:

Construction Technology

Kayaks are made of PVC and strong rubbers for higher durability. The perfect inflatable kayak should be made with drop stitch technology. This maintains the stability and durability of your inflatable kayak. It is also helpful for making the kayak weigh less and requires less energy for paddling.

Valves

Valves are required for inflating and deflating quickly and conveniently. Different brands use different types of valves. No matter what the size and type of the valve are, you must always take care that it is reliable and has air locking capacity for safe water recreation.

Seats

The seat is the most important feature of an inflatable kayak. The comfort of a kayak completely depends on the seats. Kayaks come with either 1 or 2 seats for comfortable and leisurely water adventure. Adjustable and comfortable seats are necessary for a fun-filled day of paddling.

Pumps

Pumps are a requirement in your kayak kit. They are very useful for inflating your kayak. Some people prefer electronic pumps and some prefer manual pumps. Either manual or electrical, a pump is essential for inflatable kayaks.

Self-Bailing

Inflatable kayaks can incorporate excess water. For this reason, some inflatable kayaks come with a self-bailing system to remove excess water from the boat. Some kayaks have drainage plugs that you can open while deflating to get rid of excess water stored on the boat.

Paddle

A paddle is one of the basic requirements for a kayaking experience. Kayaks come with paddles included with them. However, you can upgrade your paddles as per your preference to enhance your experience of water adventure.

Tracking Fin

It is a removable small fin that you can fit at the bottom of your kayak. A tracking fin is very beneficial for kayaking in rough water. It helps in propelling the kayak faster without forcing extra energy.

Extras

Inflatable kayaks generally come with some additional accessories like removable seats for comfort and flexibility. Some of the essential extras that you should look for are given below:

• Carry Bags: It is one of the most essential accessories. A carry bag makes the storage and transportation of an inflatable kayak more convenient. You can simply deflate and de-assemble your inflatable kayak and store it safely in the carry bag when you are not using it.
• Carry Handle: It is another important accessory that helps you to carry your kayak to and from the water with ease. These handles are available either on both sides of the kayak or any one side.
• Cooler Bags: They are very important when you are planning kayak fishing. You can store your fish in these bags easily.

Do’s and Don’ts While Kayaking

Kayaking trips are extremely adventurous and fun-filled. But if you are a beginner, we have listed some of the common do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind while kayaking. These do’s and don’ts will help enhance your kayaking experience. Don’t forget to read them before going for any water adventure.

Do’s of Inflatable Kayaking

• Being a beginner, never go kayaking alone. Always take a water buddy along with you.
• Always keep your repair kit while stepping into the water.
• Load your kayak evenly, to avoid the boat from sinking due to extra weight on one side.
• Always carry an extra set of clothes to cope with any kind of weather.
• Make sure that your inflated kayak is filled with enough amount of air.
• Check whether there’s any leakage or not, before stepping into the water.
• Always carry either a hat or a cap to protect your head and face from direct sunlight.
• Make sure that you don’t go too far from the shore.
• Carry a water bottle of fresh drinking water along with you to stay hydrated all day long.
• Apply sunscreen before stepping out, to protect your skin from sunburns.
• Always make sure to wear a life jacket before stepping into the water.

Don’ts of Inflatable Kayaking

• Don’t force your inflatable kayak near a rocky area. Although inflatable kayaks are made of hard and sturdy material to avoid punctures, still you should be extra careful.
• Don’t carry alcoholic drinks with you while kayaking. They can cause severe dehydration.
• Don’t swap places with your kayaking partner in the middle of your trip.
• Always remember to never leave your kayak unattended at the shore.
• Don’t panic if you see a large wave coming toward you. Keep calm and face the wave to get out of it.
• Don’t exceed the weight capacity of your inflatable kayak. Because it may cause great damage and is also incorporated with risks while kayaking in the rough water.

Buying Guide

Inflatable kayaks are becoming more and more popular with each passing day because of their versatility and advancement in technology. But choosing the right kayak for a safe and fun-filled water adventure is equally important. Here, we have gathered some of the points that you need to consider while purchasing an inflatable kayak:

Material

When choosing the right inflatable kayak, the material is the first thing that you should check. Generally, inflatable kayaks are made of puncture-free material, still, it is very necessary to check and research the quality and durability of the material.

If you choose a kayak made with high-quality material and designed through modern and durable techniques, there are fairly no chances of punctures. The following materials provide the puncture-free and light-weight inflatable kayaks:

PVC: Polyvinyl chloride is one of the most used materials used for making inflatable kayaks. It is not eco-friendly; however, it still provides the ease of maintaining the kayak at a low cost. It is a lightweight material, which makes it easier to store and carry.

Nitrylon: Nitrylon is heavier and exhibits more puncture resistance as compared to PVC. It is a perfect combination of nitrile rubber and fiber. It is eco-friendly and is used for making the bottom and sides of the kayak. This material is very reliable in terms of stability and durability.

Hypalon: It is the latest technology material used for manufacturing inflatable kayaks. Kayaks made from Hypalon are expensive and more durable. It exhibits UV rays resistance along with being puncture-free.

Weight

Weight is another important factor that needs to be considered before purchasing an inflatable kayak. Inflatables have an average weight of 25-30 pounds. They are relatively lighter to make their transportation easier.

Durability

It is necessary to check the durability of an inflatable kayak before purchasing it. Durability mainly depends on two factors i.e., material and design of manufacturing. Your inflatable kayak should be tough and durable. Drop-stitch technology is the most durable and stable method of constructing an inflatable kayak.

Comfort

Kayaking is a recreational activity that can reduce your all-week-long work stress. For a better kayaking experience, your inflatable kayak should have comfortable seats. So that you can enjoy your kayak trip and water adventure to the fullest.

Size

The length of an inflatable kayak is an important factor that decides the speed and maneuverability of a kayak. The larger the length of the kayak, the faster the speed. On the other hand, the smaller the length, the greater the maneuverability. If you are a beginner, you should opt for a kayak that is smaller in length, as it helps in easy movements. However, the ideal length of an inflatable kayak is generally 10-12 feet.

Maintenance

Inflatable offer a lot of advantages over hard-shell kayaks, but they require more maintenance comparatively. You should always remember the following points of maintenance of an inflatable kayak:

• Always deflate and pack your inflatable kayak after properly cleaning and drying it. Any residue can lead to severe damage to your kayak.
• Although inflatable kayaks are puncture-proof, you should always carry a repair kit along with you.

Inflatable kayaks require deep cleaning and drying after the trip. Make sure to choose a kayak that is easy to clean and has drainage valves to remove excess water easily. Kayaks with a self-bailing system are the best choice.

Set-up

Proper set-up of oars, seats, paddles, etc. is necessary for a great kayaking experience. The proper setup offers you comfort so that you can easily enjoy your trip. Make sure to inflate it properly before stepping into the water, it might take some time but it is worth it.

Always choose the kayak that is easy to set up and comes with proper and high-quality accessories like tracking fin, paddles, pump, etc. You should be able to inflate and deflate your kayak easily after each kayaking trip.

Speed and Control

Speed and control are equally important when considering an inflatable kayak to buy. You should always opt for a kayak that has easy controls and handling options. Generally, it is harder to paddle and keep moving in a straight-line direction with an inflatable kayak as compared to a hard-shell kayak.

In this case, a detachable skeg fin can be a better option for you. Some inflatable kayaks come with a tracking fin and some don’t. It usually depends on the cost of the kayak.

Types of Water Adventure

This is the most important factor to consider while choosing an inflatable kayak. There are different types of kayaks available in the market, with different designs and manufacturing techniques. The perfect choice of an inflatable kayak depends on the type of recreational activity you are involved in.

• If you are a beginner or looking for light recreational activity, then entry-level inflatable kayaks are the best choice for you. They are suitable for people who are looking for a low-budget kayak. The price range of these kayaks lies between $100 and $250. They are not much durable, as they are made of thin and single PVC sheets. But they can provide you with the best beginner’s experience at cheap rates.
• If you are experienced and are looking for something for your heavy recreational activities, then you should opt for white water rafting kayaks. They are available in a price range between $300 and $700. They have an extra covering of fabric over PVC that protects them from damage caused due to harmful UV rays.
• Lastly, if you are a water adventure lover, then high-end inflatable kayaks are the best option for you. These kayaks are the best choice in terms of durability, stability, and design. They provide the best kayaking experience along with safety. These kayaks are suitable for experienced kayakers. They are much more expensive than the other two categories. Their price range starts from $800 and can go as high as you want.