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If you are an outdoor lover then there are most days that you would want to be outside especially over water. If you are an adventurous person who likes to spend most of your time in the water then boating is all you need. Depending on the number of people you want to boat with, a kayak is an appropriate source for you. A kayak is a mini watercraft that is built for just one or two people. To propel it throughout the water, a double-sided panel is all you need. Over thousands of years, the kayak has been used and it hasn’t changed in its structure very much. The reason why the structure of the kayak has not changed is that it just functions. So, when it comes down to choosing a kayak, there are multiple things that you would want to look at. These are the designing, material if it’s a sit-in or sit-on, and the fact at how many seats exist within the kayak. If an adventure is what you are looking for but a boat with high-tech features is not your need then a kayak is the water vessel for you. Here we have stated some of the best inflatable kayak available on amazon, today. Note: As an Amazon Associate, We earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
The intex explorer K2 kayak is one of the best inflatable kayak available on amazon, today. It is very much durable and easy to use. These are extremely comfortable to sit in. It also has a cockpit for comfort and space. The inflated size of this kayak is plentiful at 10 Feet 3 X 3 Feet X 1 Feet 8 Inch. It can harbor an average amount of weight with maximum being 400 pounds. The color of the intex explorer is yellow which is quite vibrant and helps in case of an emergency because it is attractive. The paddles that come with this kayak are short but you can always buy new ones. The short paddles are a great accessory when it comes to boating with children. It is built for smaller water bodies though like lakes and mild rivers.
What we like
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
- Vibrant
- Attractive
- Ideal for small water bodies
What we don't like
- Short paddles
2. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
If you are a beginner or someone who is a non-enthusiast then this kayak is appropriate for you. It is quite affordable as compared to other kayaks but accounts to be one of the best inflatable kayak none-the-less. The kayak is extremely easy to be aired, maneuvered and board. It is ultra-light and this quality aids in portableness. It can seat up maximum weight of 27.2 pound weight and 220 pound maximum capacity. The intex challenger K1 kayak is a simple easy to store option. However, it cannot be used to compete with other kayak because it does not cuts through water quite as fast. The eye-catching graphics on this one make it one of the most esthetic kayak. It is made with a material that welds it and enhances it’s durableness. The inflatable beam floors add to the stability of kayak. The cockpit within this kayak add to the comfortableness and maximize space. The inflatable seats have a backrest to add support. The kayak is very much spacious with the cargo net allowing for storage of gears. Due to the rugged vinyl construction it is quite durable.
What we like
- Affordable
- Easy to maneuveur
- Easy to store
- Durable
- Stable
- Maximizes space
What we don't like
- Not very fast
3. Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
One of the best inflatable kayak, the intex challenger k2 is one of its type. It is quite durable crediting to the rubber with which it is built. The light-weightedness of this kayak is extra-ordinary. The structure of this kayak is quite sturdy with well-stabilizing capacity. The streamlined design adds to the esthetic potential of this kayak. It is sporty and fun in it’s core essence as a performer. The kayak is easy to be paddled as well adding to the ease associated with it. The bright green color makes it stand out from the rest in a manner no other kayak can compare to. The inflation and deflation in this kayak is quite easy, crediting to the an Intex high output pump. The two 86 inch aluminum paddles make paddling extremely sophisticated and excited. It does not has a back seat support though. The intex challenger is very much durable because of the rugged vinyl that it is made up of. It is resistant to UV damage and puncture as well marking it’s extensive longevity. The maximum weight limit is 400 pounds which is an average weight for most kayaks. The dimensions of this kayak are well distributed as well, 30 x 15 x 138 inches.
What we like
- Durable
- Light weight
- Stable
- Sturdy
- Esthetic
- Easy to paddle
What we don't like
- No back seat support
4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
The kayak is highly comfortable for everyone. The footrest is a feature that is unique and quite welcoming as it builds up the ease of paddling. The hand pump allows it to inflate very quickly. It is quite light-weight so there won’t be any discomfort in holding or carrying it around. It is built with a super tough laminate PVC with polyester core that adds to it’s stiffness and fine tracking potential. It is highly durable, being resistant to abrasion, sunlight and impact. The intex excursion pro kayak is among the best inflatable kayak. It has high pressure spring loaded valves that add towards stability and rigidity. The repair patch allows it to be fixed immediately in case of an accident. The mounting bracket makes it a very spacious kayak in which additional accessories can be easily held. The total weight bearing capacity is like that of an average kayak, 400 pounds. The kayak is very easy to use as it allows travelling in shallow and deep water as well with the removable skews. The storage bag is thin and not watertight. Other than that the stability and speed of this kayak is one of a kind.
What we like
- Comfortable
- Unique
- Inflates quickly
- Durable
- Stable
- Rigid
What we don't like
- Storage bag is thin and not watertight
5. Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Kayak
This kayak is quite light-weight so their is no hassle in transportation. It is quite well-built so tracking is very much easy. The durability of the advanced elements frame kayak is one of a kind. The aluminum skegs underneath and ribs within make the structure quite rigid and supportive. Due to these qualities the speed of this kayak is quite fast as well. It is easy to inflate and deflate this kayak per need. The kayak is pretty stable and handles the winds pretty well. To avoid getting it punctured, there are three layers within this kayak. It is very easy to set-up since it is pre-assembled. The highly padded seat allows for comfort and support as well. The portableness of this kayak is exceptional credited to the light-weightedness. The bright orange color allows help to be attracted if ever the need arises. It does not has any foot braces but these can be bought separately. The kayak is extremely easy to maneuver and accounts to be one the best inflatable kayak.
What we like
- Light weight
- Well built
- Durable
- Rigid
- Supportive
- Stable
- Pre-assembled
What we don't like
- No foot braces
6. Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
The kayak is quite stable and it is extremely good at tracking just like a hard-shell kayak. The two-directional stakes in them allow one to go straight. No matter what the situation is, these keep the kayak strong. The sevylor big basin is quite durable crediting to the highly durable PVC that it is made up of. The long-lasting capability is also associated with the tarpaulin bottom. The air chambers in this kayak seem to leak after a time period. The sides are low as well which allows water to flow right inside it. However, the spray covers are sure to keep the passengers dry. The kayak is appropriate for three person but it is much better for two person and a child. The carry handles associated with it make it easy to carry it around. The inflation and deflation purpose is easily served as well due to the Boston valve.
What we like
- Stable
- Good at tracking
- Strong
- Long lasting
- Easy portableness
- Easy inflation and deflation
What we don't like
- Air chambers may leak
- Low sides allow water to enter
7. Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Kayak Pro Package
It is one of the best inflatable kayak available on amazon, the pricing is quite reasonable as well. The space is limited to 1-3 people which is the average accommodation in kayaks. There are two 84″ aluminum paddles accompanying it which makes owing on the water easy. The front is covered in order to stop slashes from entering in the kayak. The rear has storage potential for products to be placed in it making it more accommodating for additional accessories. It is well suited for all kinds of water bodies including the whitewater rapids and lake paddles as well. It is quite stable while in use. The rugged aesthetic of sea eagle 370 makes it quite attractive and long lasting. The securing gear placement has no D-rings on the side which is a slight drawback. It is however quite easy to maneuver the kayak. The entrance within the kayak and outside it is quite easy. It is also very easy to life this best inflatable kayak.
What we like
- Reasonable pricing
- Average accommodation
- It has storage potential
- Stable
- Rugged aesthetic
What we don't like
- Securing gear has no D-rings
8. Sea eagle 380x
It is quite versatile in its function. The seating allows for two adults to sit comfortably but these can also be moved backward in order to compensate for solo sitting. The high back streets, rigid floor and stable pontoon-like sides make it highly comfortable. It can be used over any kind of water structure. The sea eagle 380x is quite durable. It gives off an exceptional array of performance. The kayak is lightweight, weighing just 18 KG/14 LBS , aiding in its portability. If water gets within the confines of kayak it can be easily drained out with the 16 self bailing drain valves present in it. While plowing through the waves, the front and rear skirts help in deflecting the water spray. The bungee cord is stabilized with the D-rings that help secure the stow bags that accompany the kayak or any dry bags or accessories. The foot pump that accompanies the kayak isn’t extremely powerful and may consume a lot of energy but it can be replaced for electric pump.
What we like
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Rigid
- Lightweight
- Portable
What we don't like
- Foot pump isn’t powerful enough
9. Sea Eagle 385FT Inflatable Kayak
It is a faster smoother ride as compared to any other kayak available in the market today. The sides are too small so water gets inside it very easily. It is not very bulky so carrying it around is quite easy. The weight holding capacity of this kayak is very high. It is roomy enough for two people to be settled in or for a solo trip as well. The 2 closeable self-bailing valves allow water to be controlled and wiped out if on a high tide. The kayak is very versatile in performance and can be accommodated for variety of water bodies. The storage space is of fairly decent amount, it is present in the form of rope lacing below and above the spray skirts. The extremely rigid drop stitch floor add to its durable. If tracking fin is used then it gets extremely easier for tracking purpose. It glides through water in a very out-standing manner. The set-up for this kayak is very quick as well.
What we like
- Faster smoother ride
- Roomy
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Adequate storage space
What we don't like
- Low sides
The kayak is extremely stable while rowing it on the water bodies. It is super comfortable to be seated within the kayak. The kayak is compact and it is easy to store equipment’s within it. The entrance within the kayak is quite easy to do and getting out of it too. The kayak is quite lightweight so there is no issue in it’s portableness. It is very easy to paddle and maneuver your way through the kayak. However, in order to secure the gear there is no D-rings on the side for it. The price range is quite affordable for the sea eagle 330. It is no doubt one of the best inflatable kayak available on amazon today. The kayak is suitable for beginners and experts as well. the 2 attached skegs add to it’s versatile function.
What we like
- Stable
- Compact
- Easy to store
- Lightweight
- Easy to paddle
What we don't like
- No D-rings
11. Aqua glide McKenzie 125 Inflatable Kayak
It is the perfect combination of being extremely fast and going slow as per the need of the paddler. It is basically a whitewater recreational hybrid in its true essence. The versatile qualities set it apart from the rest and make it one of the best inflatable kayak. It is built up of innovative technological features. The water is evacuated from this kayak very quickly with the 4 mesh drains and Evo beam technology making it more easier and well suited for the function. The capacity is maximum upto 600 Lbs, 2 persons can be easily accommodated within. The kayak is very long lasting and durable in its function. It is quite lightweight as well so portableness is not an issue. There is no high pressure rigid floor but the price is quite affordable so it makes up for this slight draw-back.
What we like
- Hybrid
- Versatile
- Innovative
- Maximum capacity
- Long lasting
What we don't like
- No high pressure rigid floor
FAQs regarding inflatable kayaks
1. Are they as durable as claimed?
This question is a very valid one and is quite often asked. Truth be told, the quality most often varies from kayak to kayak. These cannot be treated as pool toys like most people think of them. Generally speaking, yes kayaks are very much durable. They are so tough in quality that one can see them oftentimes being used by outfitters, water rescue agencies and adventure companies as well. A model with good quality can take abuse for a long time, without puncturing or tearing apart.
2. Are kayaks slow while paddling?
There is no right answer to this question because it highly depends on the model. If the model is cheap then the kayak can be slow and sluggish in performance but these are still fun. The speed depends on the quality. Some overperform themselves better than hard-shell kayak and are fairly good enough in tracking performance. Others, not so much. Though, you have to keep in mind the facts that these kayaks are fairly wide enough. They will not be as fast as a streamlined plastic or a fiberglass kayak. It is not idealistic to think that kayaks will be the fastes on water but some good quality inflatable kayaks are exceptional in their performance. There is improvement in design and quality each year to make kayaks better than before.
3. Are kayaks stable enough?
Kayaks have few models that are extremely stable and safe which makes them ideal for people of all age groups. These can be extremely stable as well. The pontoon-like sides make kayak nearly impossible to tip. Some models of kayak also have super rigid floor which means these can be used while stand up paddling.
4. Will the kayak sink if water gets inside?
Kayaks are known to be unsinkable. These have three air chambers associated with them, one on the floor and one for each side. If there is a leak in one chamber then the other two will help keep you afloat. Until and unless the case is of a large tear, there is a high probability that leaks will be small and air is slow to get out. If you are out on the water and come across a small leak then the reapir kit will help you patch it up fast. The bottomline is this: your kayak may not perform at its best after a leak but sinking is not a high probability.
5. Are kayaks safe?
This question has already been answered when we talked about stability and leakage. Just in case, we are letting you know again. Yes, kayaks are extremely safe. Good quality inflatable boats are some of the best avaialble in the market today specially with the innovative design and strong material.
6. Are kayaks hard to handle?
Kayaks are extremely easy to be taken care of. You can simply wash them with fresh water if there was salt water, where you were present. The kayaks can be dried off under the sun or with the help of a towel. This step is important to prevent mould from growing on it. Then you can deflate the kayak and roll it over within its bag. Then these kayaks can be placed away from extreme heat and cold. If you want extra protection from elements then kayak can be sprayed over with a 303 UV spray.
7. What size of the kayak should one opt for?
The size of the kayak that you want to select depends on the type of kayaking and number of people you want to kayak with. If you are planning to row on lakes and oceans then longer and leaner kayaks are the appropriate fit for you. If you are planning for paddling on whitewater or rivers then shorter kayaks are more better suited for this function.
Conclusion for the best inflatable kayak
Here we have enlisted the best inflatable kayak available on amazon. We really hope that you were able to find the perfect fit for you. Whilst each one has its own perks and drawbacks. The kayaks are exceptional performers when it comes to be out on a sunny day. So, whether you want to be with your furry partner, friend or family. The kayak are an appropriate fit. Happy Kayaking!
Our Verdict
Best inflatable kayak overall: Intex explorer K2
Best value for money: Advanced elements advanced frame