Kayak Reviews And Buying Guide

Whether you are planning to paddle your kayak for only a few times or you are planning to use it for extended overnight trips, you would want it to glide down the river or the ocean with little effort. But buying a kayak for the first time can be challenging especially with various models that vary in size, weight, and features sold in the market. Without a clear understanding of the different types of kayaks available, you may end up regretting your purchase. So how about you start with a guide?

Popular Sellers

INTEX 68307EP Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seats with Backrest – 2-Person – 400lb Weight Capacity
28,185 Reviews
INTEX 68307EP Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seats with Backrest – 2-Person – 400lb Weight Capacity
  • ✔ EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go.Grab line on both ends. Streamlined design for easy paddling.
  • ✔ READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
  • ✔ STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
Lifetime Muskie Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle, Tan, 120''' (90508)
1,337 Reviews
Lifetime Muskie Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle, Tan, 120""" (90508)
  • Constructed of uv-protected high-density Polyethylene. Multiple footrest positions for different size riders. Stable flat bottom
  • Adjustable padded seat back and seat pad for comfort. Two flush mounted fishing rod holders. One top mount fishing rod Holder
  • Front and rear shock cord straps. Two 6" storage compartments in rear and center. One paddlekeeper, one adult black paddle
INTEX 68306EP Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – 2-Person – 400lb Weight Capacity
12,487 Reviews
INTEX 68306EP Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – 2-Person – 400lb Weight Capacity
  • ✔ SUPER-STRONG – SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior strength and durability, ensuring high impact and abrasion resistance
  • ✔ LOW PROFILE DESIGN – The Challenger K2 has a streamlined low-profile design that is perfect for easy paddling in lakes and mild rivers
  • ✔ COCKPIT SEATS – Built with removable and adjustable seats, the cockpit design is spacious and comfortable, providing plenty of room for your legs and gear
WHITIN Men's Water Shoes Quick Dry Aqua Minimalist Barefoot Sneakers Size 11.5-12 Minimus Beach Swimming River Hiking Trail Kayak Fishing Dark Blue 45
367 Reviews
WHITIN Men's Water Shoes Quick Dry Aqua Minimalist Barefoot Sneakers Size 11.5-12 Minimus Beach Swimming River Hiking Trail Kayak Fishing Dark Blue 45
  • Treated with a hydrophobic finish mesh for ventilation and quick-drying capability.
  • Level Footbed with double-drainage-groove on the sidewalls assist with the shoe's fast-draining comfort.
  • Cushioned Skin-EVA insole with raised patterns ensure faster-drying and fresh no matter the expedition.
Sunlite Sports 2-Person Inflatable Kayak with Aluminum Oars (136' x 33'), High Output Air Pump and Storage Bag, Double Tandem Kayak for Adults, Two Person Canoe and Kayack
17 Reviews
Sunlite Sports 2-Person Inflatable Kayak with Aluminum Oars (136" x 33"), High Output Air Pump and Storage Bag, Double Tandem Kayak for Adults, Two Person Canoe and Kayack
  • FOR OPEN WATER ADVENTURES - This inflatable kayak is designed specifically for exploring serene lakes and gentle rivers. Its sturdy construction and impeccable stability make it the ideal choice for tranquil water bodies. With a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds, it can effortlessly accommodate two adventurers and their gear. It measures 11.37 feet x 2.75 feet when inflated.
  • STABLE AND MANEUVERABLE - This kayak, equipped with two skegs for enhanced stability, offers exceptional maneuverability in various water conditions. Its well-balanced design ensures a steady ride, allowing you to navigate through calm or mild waters with ease.
  • PORTABLE WITH EASY SET-UP - This kayak effortlessly folds down into a compact size and comes with an included portable storage bag. Its inflatable design allows for quick and hassle-free setup, making it perfect for transportation and storage.

Last update on 2023-09-05 at 18:19 PST/ Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Types of Kayaks

Kayaks come in two basic styles. There is the sit in boats and the sit on top boats. Each type carries its pros and cons. It’s essential that you know the difference between the two so that you are better informed about your purchase.

Sit In Kayaks

They feature a cockpit which is where you sit. There is a cockpit rim around the cockpit which is where you keep your spray skirt so that the water remains out of the boat. There are seat and foot pedals which can be adjusted according to the paddler’s length, inside the cockpit.

Pros
Can Be Used In Any Season

Lovers of long kayaking should consider buying these as they can use them in spring as well as autumn weather.

Fast Paddling

These boats have a low center of gravity which translates to better stability and faster paddling.

Protection From Spays of Water

With a cockpit rim that encloses the cockpit, spray waters are kept out, and hence the paddlers can have a smooth ride. Also, the absence of drain holes in the bottom of the cockpit ensures that it remains dry throughout.

Easy Fishing

The closed cockpits are built directly into the hull of the boat which means you will be closer to the water and therefore can fish with ease. Also, users can access the entire hull hence can store all their fishing equipment.

Cons

Your kayak will be filled with water if you flip and hence recovery can be tricky.

Freedom of movement is restricted.

Accessing items in the back part of the kayak can be challenging.

Sit On Top Kayaks

They are used mostly by paddlers in warm water who love swimming. They feature an open cockpit design that allows paddlers to jump off and get back on. Users sit on a molded depression instead of being in the vessels.

Pros
They Are Easy to Enter And Exit

Since the cockpit is open, it makes it easy for one to get in and out. This feature makes them a preferred choice for fishers, divers, and surfers.

Comfortable

The open-air designs allow room for stretching out and relaxing while on the water. Also, you can place your feet in the position you find comfortable since they offer more footrest options.

Easy Access To Your Gear

You can effortlessly access simple gear like water bottles and fishing rods. Again, they have storage space to keep your fishing tools.

Self-Bailing

They have small holes that allow water to drain through them. In case you topple you can flip them back.

Cons
Slow Speed

They are wide which means they have a high center of gravity hence difficult to paddle and inefficient.

Little Space For Gear Storage

These models don’t provide much dry storage space due to their molded tops.

Offer No Protection Against Harsh Weather Conditions

The paddlers are exposed to wind, hot sun and waves since the cockpit is open.

What to Look For When Buying a Kayak

Weight Capacity

This comprises the total of the boat, your gear and you. If the boat is overloaded it will sit too low in the water and paddling may be inefficient.

Length

Longer boats glide more efficiently and offer abundant storage space. Kayaks with shorter hulls turn more quickly.

Material Used

The material used affects the durability and the weight of the kayak. There are two common materials used for constructing kayaks.

Plastic

Kayaks made of plastics are the common ones.

Composites

Lightweight fiberglass boats can resist obstacles in the water without turning over, and it is unlikely for them to get damaged. But they can be repaired in cases of accidents although they are expensive.

Price

Price also plays a part in decision making. Your place of purchase determines the price. A big box store could be selling them at a higher price than a locally owned pro-shop. Also, you can buy a second-hand kayak which is cheaper as compared to a brand new one. Whichever the case, go for a quality kayak. This means that you have to do more research.

Conclusion

As there are many uses of kayaks, you should purchase one that meets your needs and wants. The purpose will help you determine the features of the kayak. For instance, a fishing kayak should have space for holding fishing equipment.

Don’t just purchase the first kayak that you see. Instead ensure that you research the model you want to buy and that it will suit your kayaking needs. But with this guide you will be able to make a better choice.

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