Best Inflatable Kayak
We love our kayaks. Kayaking is a great way to explore the rivers, lakes, and oceans without polluting them.
Inflatable kayaks are also inexpensive and easy to transport, great for beginners and
experienced kayakers alike.
But how do you choose? With so many options, it can be hard to tell which is the right pick.
With that in mind, we’ve put together this list to help you decide on the best inflatable kayak
for you.
Best for experienced kayakers: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Inflatable Kayak
- Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improve tracking
- 3 layers of material for extreme puncture resistance
- PreAssembled at the factory. Simply unfold, inflate and attach the seat
- High support, adjustable padded seat provides comfort for hours of paddling
- Looks and paddles similar to a rigid hard-shell kayak with the portability of an inflatable
While it’s one of the most expensive inflatable kayaks on the market, it is well worth the price
for experienced kayakers.
It is highly durable, with an aluminum frame and a puncture-resistant polyethylene outer
layer. It also boasts 3 layers of material and seven chambers for extra protection against any
leaks. You can take up to class II rivers with this.
There are a number of storage compartments for you to keep your belongings in. No need to
worry about them getting wet, though. Each of the compartments comes with a zip to keep
them safe and dry.
The AdvancedFrame also comes with bungee cords so you can tie down any larger
belongings you might have. If you want to kayak with a partner, the AdvancedFrame has you covered. With a second, collapsable seat, you can easily go kayaking by yourself or with a friend whenever you want.
Both seats are incredibly comfortable, making them great for long kayaking expeditions.
This model also comes with a repair kit and a bag for storage and transportation.
Unfortunately, the AdvancedFrame does not come with its own paddles or pump. This
makes it even more inaccessible for beginners or those on a budget.
You also need to take it apart after using it in order to dry it completely.
PROS
- Highly durable
- Pre-built aluminum frame
- Collapsable second seat
- Plenty of storage space
- Comfortable seating
CONS
- Very expensive
- Does not come with a pump or paddle
Best for budget kayakers: Intex Challenger K1
1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
At around $150, the Intex Challenger K1 is one of the cheapest inflatable kayaks available,
making it great for anyone on a tight budget.
This also makes it a great option if you’re a beginner and are still figuring out if kayaking is
for you.
You do get what you pay for, though, and with a cheaper cost comes fewer features.
It is far less durable than other options on this list. Although its material is puncture-resistant,
it only has two air chambers. This means that when a puncture does happen, it’s far more
likely to be disastrous.
Its lack of durability means that it isn’t suitable for rougher waters. This means that you
shouldn’t really take it out onto the ocean or faster rivers.
But, if you’re just going for a slow, easy paddle on a lake or a slow river, then this could be
the one for you.
The Challenger K1 comes with ample storage space kitted out with a net to hold your
belongings down. It isn’t waterproof, though, so you’ll need to watch how you paddle if
there’s anything valuable in there.
This kayak also comes with paddles, a pump, and a removable skeg. With so much included, it’s an even better bank for your buck.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Plenty of storage
- Comes with paddles, a pump, and a removable skeg
- Grab handles make it easy to carry
CONS
- Not very durable
Best for all-rounder kayakers: Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Kayak
Includes 2 Aluminum Paddles, 2 Padded Seats, Double Action Pump and More
The Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Kayak is a good kayak if you’re looking for
something that can take on multiple bodies of water. It’s great for rivers, streams, lakes, and
the ocean. Its buoyancy makes it useable even on choppy waters.
Like most other kayaks, its outer layer is made from puncture-resistant material. While its
heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin fabric isn’t quite as durable as some of the other kayaks on here, it
still gets the job done well.
The Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Kayak also comes with all of the accessories you
might need. It includes a pump, 2 paddles, and a removable skeg.
The storage space is a little lacking if you’re paddling with a partner. But, both seats are
adjustable and removable. This means that you can increase your storage space if you’re
paddling alone.
This kayak is built to be light-weight and buoyant, making it easy to carry and transport. It
also inflates and deflates super quickly, saving you time on set-up and drying.
PROS
- Versatile for multiple uses
- Comes with a pump, 2 paddles, and a removable skeg
- Easy to set up and pack away
- Easy to carry and transport
CONS
- Limited storage with 2 people
- Slightly less durable than other kayaks
Best for multi-day kayakers: Coleman Sevylor Quikpak 5
The Coleman Sevylor Quikpak 5 is an ideal kayak if you’re planning on taking a multi-day trip down a river.
With multiple chambers and puncture-resistant material, it’s durable and safe-guarded against sinking. While we wouldn’t recommend taking this down rapids, it’s perfect for a relaxing camping trip by yourself or with some friends.
There’s tons of storage space for you to keep your camping gear safe and dry, with bungee cords to keep everything secured to the kayak.
The Coleman Sevylor Quikpak 5 has a quick and easy set-up. With an inflation time of only 5 minutes, you can get going right away.
It’s also super easy to transport and carry for any hiking you might want to do. The whole kayak folds compactly into a backpack in which you can store your paddles and accessories. The backpack itself then becomes the seat of your kayak, so you don’t have to worry about any extras.
The design of the kayak also protects your legs from water and weather. That way, you won’t have to worry as much about sunburn on a multi-day trip.
PROS
- Lots of storage space
- Inflates quickly
- Comes with a paddle and pump
- Packs neatly into a backpack
- Durable
CONS
- Limited weight support
- Not suitable for rough waters
Best for solo kayakers: Airhead Montana Kayak
Short and compact, the Airhead Montana Kayak is perfect for a solo kayaker in a variety of situations.
Although small, the kayak is relatively wide. This makes it extra stable on all kinds of water and means you can even take on small rapids by yourself.
Although it has ample space at the front and back of the kayak, there is no waterproofing. It does have bungee cords to keep everything secure, but make sure to pack all your valuables in waterproof bags.
The inflatable seat is comfortable and offers extra back support so you can travel for long periods of time without much discomfort.
The Airhead Montana Kayak is also very lightweight, making it easy to carry by yourself.
Even though it’s lightweight, it’s still durable. It has puncture-resistant material made of 840 denier coated nylon and boasts 3 air chambers to protect you from sinking.
This kayak does, unfortunately, have weight limitations. As it is only built to support 1 person, it will not stay afloat with 2 people or even someone on the heavier side.
It also doesn’t come with a pump but does come with a paddle.
PROS
- Durable
- Can withstand rapids
- Lightweight
- Comes with a paddle
- Ample secure storage space
CONS
- Storage is not waterproof
- Limited weight capacity
Best for fishing kayakers: Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
If you like kayaking and you like fishing, then the Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person
This kayak is highly durable. It is made from 18-gauge PVC, as well as a nylon and tarpaulin outer layer. This makes it super puncture-resistant. It also boasts multiple air chambers, making it safe to use without the worry of sinking.
Besides being an all-around excellent and durable kayak, it has many features that make it great for fishing.
With lots of secure storage space, you can transport your fishing gear and store your catches easily.
It also has paddle holders and fishing rod holders. This means you can go hands-free while you fish, and relax while you’re waiting for a catch.
Its inflation lasts a long time, meaning you can fish without worry of your kayak deflating. This does mean that it takes a long time to inflate, though.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person
PROS
- Very durable
- Long-lasting inflation
- Lots of storage space
- Paddle holders
- Fishing rod holders
CONS
- Inflation takes a long time
Best for group kayakers: Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
With seating enough for up to 3 people, the Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak is great for kayaking in groups. Whether you’re with family or friends, this kayak has you covered.
Made from PVC tarpaulin, it’s ultra-durable and puncture-resistant. Like many others on this list, it also boasts multiple air chambers for protection from sinking.
Not only does this protect you, but it makes the kayak extra buoyant.
Because a lot of its space is taken up by seating, its storage capacity is quite limited. This makes it unsuitable for extended trips.
Its limited space might also make it a tight fit for 3 adults. If you’re fine with that then it’ll do the trick no matter who you’re kayaking with.
This kayak is only really suitable for slow-moving or still water. Because of this, you can’t use it on the open ocean or fast-moving rivers.
If you and your group want to avoid getting wet, then the Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak has you covered. Quite literally. It has integrated splash guards both on the front and the back, which will keep you and your belongings dry.
PROS
- Can fit up to 3 people
- Has integrated splash guards
- Quick inflation and deflation
- Very durable
CONS
- Can’t take it out on the ocean or fast-moving rivers
- Limited storage space
Best for backcountry kayakers: Advanced Elements PackLite Kayak
Coming in at an incredibly small size and weight, the Advanced Elements PackLite Kayak is highly portable. It’s not only easy to carry to and from your launch point, but you can also hike and travel with it without breaking a sweat.
It’s super quick and easy to set up, making inflation at the beginning of a day’s travel fast and painless. Packing it away is also just as easy. This makes it the perfect on-the-go kayak.
Unfortunately, the lightweight of this kayak does make it less durable than other kayaks on this list. It tears more easily and doesn’t have as many chambers. Luckily, it comes with an excellent repair kit.
Due to its shape, the tracking on this kayak isn’t the best. This makes it unsuitable for any fast-moving water. You’ll need to stick to lakes and slow-moving rivers for this one.
That being said, all of its features make it great for a relaxing kayak in the backcountry, far from civilization.
PROS
- Very lightweight
- Easy to set up
- Easy to pack away
- Comes with a repair kit
CONS
- Not very durable
- Tracking isn’t excellent
Best for short-trip kayakers: Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
With super fast set-up and disassembly times, the Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak is perfect for short, day trips.
This kayak is small in size and comes with a high-pressure pump. What this means is that it will only take you 5 minutes to inflate it. Deflating and cleaning it is also super quick.
It folds up into its own integrated backpack, making it easy to carry and transport.
This kayak has a sit-on setup that makes you feel open and connected to the water around you. This does make it a little less stable than other kayaks, though. This isn’t something you would take onto the ocean or a fast-moving river.
Its PVC and Tarpaulin construction make it puncture-resistant. It’s quite a durable little yak.
Its small size does mean that it has very limited storage space, which makes it unsuitable for long trips. The design also makes you more vulnerable to the water and the sun.
PROS
- Easy to set up
- Easy to carry
- Comfortable seating
- Easy to disassemble
CONS
- Tracking isn’t great
- Only suitable for slow or non-moving water
The Aquaglide Navarro 145 Convertible Inflatable Kayak is an intermediate cross-over touring boat that gets you out and paddling in all weather.
Built with ultra-sturdy materials, the Aquaglide Navarro 145 Convertible Inflatable Kayak is great for rapids and whitewater kayaking. Its HexShell covered pontoons and drop-stitched floors mean that it can take on even rough waters.
Its sit-inside design protects you and your kayak from getting too wet, even when going down rapids.
Its convertible seats mean that you can paddle with anywhere from 1 to 3 people, making it versatile depending on where you’re going and who you’re doing with. The separated seat design also makes it roomy and comfortable for multiple people.
This kayak has ample storage space. It has both bungee cords and zip-open dry compartments. This means you can carry everything you need and keep your valuables safe and dry.
On the downside, this kayak is very expensive. With so many great features, it’s one of the priciest on the market. It also doesn’t come with paddles or a pump, making it an even pricer purchase if you don’t have those already.
That being said, it’s well worth the price if you’re looking for something durable that can handle a whitewater adventure. Its cutting-edge engineering means that this kayak will last you a long time.
PROS
- Highly durable
- Can handle whitewater rapids
- Can fit up to 3 people
- Ample dry storage space
CONS
- Very expensive
- Doesn’t come with paddles or a pump
Best for tandem kayakers: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Tandem Inflatable Kayak
With a rigid bow and stern plus a multi-chamber inflatable hull, the AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak offers performance and portability for one or two paddlers.
Although this kayak’s seating positions mean that it can be used for a solo kayaker, we think that this is the best choice for tandem kayaking. This kayak’s super comfortable seats, supportive backrests, and ample legroom make it perfect for two people to work together while paddling.
The Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 Inflatable Kayak features 600-Denier ripstop deck material that is highly puncture-resistant. It also has multiple air chambers for better protection against sinkage.
This kayak is not built for rough waters, though. Although durable, the design is only really suitable for lakes and slow-moving rivers. This does mean that it’s the perfect kayak for a relaxing paddle with a friend or partner.
While it does have ample storage space, it doesn’t have any dry compartments. You’ll need to be careful of your valuables.
The setup and disassembly of the Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 are also super easy. The rear drain plug makes draining and cleaning quick and painless.
PROS
- Comfortable and spacious 2-person seating
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Easy to set up
- Easy to deflate and clean
CONS
- No dry storage space
- Not suitable for fast-moving water
Best for safety-concerned kayakers: Sea Eagle Sport Se330 Inflatable Kayak Pro Tandem
The Sport SE370 is great fun for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. With a lightweight design and efficient hull shape, it is a swift paddling boat and easy to handle for young or old. It truly represents one of the best values in boating today.
With a ton of features that make this kayak extra safe and secure to use, the Sea Eagle Sport Se330 Kayak is great if you really want to make sure that you’re stable on the water.
Built to withstand up to class IV whitewater, this kayak is certified to keep you afloat in even the roughest of waters. It can even handle ocean waves with little issue.
Although its design means that you probably will get a little wet, it allows you to climb back into your kayak from the water easily. So, even if it capsizes or you take a tumble, you’ll be able to right yourself without any trouble.
It has three air chambers with three separate valves for extra protection against leaks and sinking.
The kayak itself is made from 1000-denier reinforced PVC. This makes it able to withstand quite a beating from rocks and beach sand.
The tracking isn’t great but can be improved with the removable skeg that comes with the kayak.
It is on the pricey side, so if you’re a beginner this might not be for you. Unless you really want to make sure you’re safe out there.
There’s also plenty of dry storage so your valuables can stay just as safe as you.
PROS
- Ultra-durable and long-lasting
- Very safe and stable
- Comes with a removable skeg
- Ample dry storage
CONS
- Expensive
Best for comfort-oriented kayakers: Fishing Kayak
Two-Person Angler Blow Up Kayak, Includes Paddles, Seats, Hard Mounting Points, Bungee Storage, Rigid Dropstitch Floor and Spray Guard
As a
Although the Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person
With ultra-comfortable seats and supportive backrests, you can sit for hours in this kayak without the slightest discomfort. The seats are also adjustable for maximum comfort.
The fishing rod and paddle holders also mean you can rest and relax while you’re on the water.
The kayak is not only puncture-resistant, but it’s also hook-resistant. Its 18-gauge 1000D PVC makes it extra durable, no matter what you’re doing.
It also boasts 3 air chambers, making it resistant to sinking even if you do puncture a hole in it.
The rounded design makes it unsuitable for any fast-moving water, though. This kayak is only good for lakes and slow-moving rivers.
This kayak is also quick and easy to set up. The included pump can inflate the kayak within 8 minutes. This saves you time and lets you relax on the water quicker than ever.
PROS
- Ultra-comfortable seating
- Supportive backrests
- Includes paddles and pump
- Very durable
- Fishing rod and paddle holders
CONS
- Not suitable for fast-moving water
- Poor tracking
Best for beginner kayakers: Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
Sea Eagle offers a wide range of beginner-friendly options. The Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak is our favorite.
Although it isn’t the cheapest on this list, it offers amazing value-for-money and a ton of other great features.
It has a wide and stable base, making it easy to track and maneuver. It also comes with a double skeg, making it even easier.
The puncture-resistant hull is made of K-80 polykrylar. This, coupled with its multiple air chambers, keeps you safe from sinking.
Its lightweight materials make it easy to set up, transport, and pack away.
On the downside, despite its stable construction, its materials make it prone to getting blown by stronger winds.
It also, unfortunately, lacks proper storage space or bungee cords. This is quite a big downside for us because storage is necessary for keeping your stuff safe on longer trips. Unless you have someone else’s kayak’s storage to use, this will only be good for short trips.
That being said, if that doesn’t bother you then this is an excellent option for beginner kayakers.
PROS
- Great value-for-money
- Durable
- Stable and easy to maneuver
- Easy setup and cleaning
CONS
- No secure storage
- Easily blown by winds
Best for occasional kayakers: Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
If you’re looking for something on the lower end of the price range to use every now and then, this is the kayak for you. The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak isn’t the most durable in the world, but it will do the trick if you like the occasional recreational kayak.
If you look after this kayak and take care of it, it’ll still last you years.
This kayak can fit up to two people. Its seats are adjustable so you can position them however you like.
The seats are also pretty comfortable and have back support. This means you can relax in them for a decent amount of time.
This kayak’s design, along with its lack of durability, makes it unsuitable for any fast waters. You’ll need to stick to lakes and slow-moving rivers with this one.
Along with its budget price, this comes with two paddles and a pump.
PROS
- Comfortable, supportive seats
- Relatively cheap
- Comes with paddles and a pump
- Seats are adjustable
CONS
- Not very durable
- Can’t handle fast-moving water
