Inflatable kayaks are unbeatable for getting on the water quickly with a fun, versatile craft that’s easy to store and transport. While they can’t match high-end hardshell kayaks for performance, they are great for recreational paddling and the sheer enjoyment of taking to the water when you get the chance, sometimes in locations where it would be difficult to get a traditional kayak.
Advanced construction techniques and materials mean the best inflatable kayaks are very durable and safe. They usually have multiple air chambers so you get back to shore even if disasters strikes, which is unlikely as the rugged materials they are made from can resist most scrapes and snags. Banish any thoughts of overgrown pool toys, the modern inflatable kayak is durable, highly portable, and being full of air, often more stable than a hardshell model. Most can be inflated in five minutes too. As with any watersport, you should wear a buoyancy aid and only paddle within your capabilities. Here are the ones we’d recommend.
Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak
Two comfy seats and room for three onboard
You can carry three people on this kayak and it’s suitable for up to Class III whitewater. The package comes with two movable, super comfortable kayak seats with improved back support plus two paddles, a foot pump and a carry bag. Two kegs on the bottom help with tracking and speed. An open and close drain value and five deluxe inflation valves help you get it on the water quickly.
Intex Challenger Kayak
Durable single kayak with on-deck storage
This durable kayak is made from dependable puncture-resistant vinyl with three separate air chambers. The inflatable I-beam floor adds stability, the seat and backrest, comfort. The cargo net on the front is good for stashing extra gear and there’s a grab line on the rear. A removable skeg will improve stability and it comes with a paddle, pump and bag.
Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak
Tough and quick to inflate
This kayak inflates quickly, in less than five minutes with the included high flow double action hand pump. It’s compact and easy to handle at only 27lbs, easily fitting into its carry bag. The heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom is durable and the top cover tough and tear-resistant. It performs well on the water with a rocker profile and pointed bow, removable deep fin and a rear drain plug.
ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
Sleek kayak with built-in frame
This high-performance kayak has built-in aluminium ribs to define the bow and stern and give good stable tracking. It’s made from three layers of material to be extremely puncture resistant. Preassembled at the factory, you simply unfold, inflate, attach the seat and glide out onto the water.
Bottom line
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While specialist kayakers want the speed and high performance of a hardshell, for more casual paddlers, the convenience and versatility of an inflatable are hard to beat, particularly for the price. The best models make kayaking accessible and affordable for anyone who wants to get on the water with a minimum of fuss and enjoy themselves. Our recommended pick for most people is the Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak. Easy to set up and comfortable for a relaxing paddle for two or three people (or a dog), it’s reassuringly stable and tough enough that you won’t dread every encounter with a rock or the river bed.
For those who want a fast but stable kayak that holds its own with non-inflatable craft, the ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak is a good choice. Its built-in frame makes it rigid and great fun to paddle but with the convenient transport and storage of an inflatable model.
