Reviewed by Kayakers:
15 BEST INFLATABLE KAYAKS IN 2022
Our experts at work
We gave our Gear lovers one job: Test 25 different Inflatable Kayak and write reviews of the best.
The result is 15 of the best Inflatable Kayak on the market today.
Anastasia Hamurari
Travel and Gear Writer An ambitious writer with a thirst for content creation through storytelling.
Torben Lonne
Editor at DIVEIN.com Torben is a dive nut, with a passion for traveling and gear.
There are hundreds of inflatable kayaks on the market right now. Supermarkets as well as clothing companies are branding their own models, and they come from the same factories in China with varying degrees of quality.
That’s why we’ve looked at 25 of the most popular inflatable kayaks to steer you toward the best kayaks and away from buyer’s remorse.
The best inflatable kayak is easy to find as long as you know what to look for. Read these reviews and you’ll easily figure out how to choose the best inflatable kayak.
Check out our buyer’s guide at the end of this article for more information on inflatable kayaking.
Top 10 Best Inflatable Kayaks In 2022
See our quick top 10 of the best, or go further down and read our in-depth reviews.
- Driftsun 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
- Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
- Airhead Montana Inflatable Kayak
- Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe Inflatable Kayak
- Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
- Advanced Elements FireFly Inflatable Kayak
- Rave Sports Inflatable Kayak
- AIRE Tributary Tomcat Solo Inflatable Kayak
- Elkton Outdoors Fishing Kayak
- Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
Still unsure as to what inflatable kayak to choose? We have answered the most popular questions about inflatable kayak in the last section of the guide.
You can enjoy paddling in this inflatable kayak by Driftsun both solo and with another person. Choppy waters are no longer an obstacle to a pleasant time in the water – the boat’s pointed nose, removable tracking fin, and a rocker profile are the reason behind it. The rugged PVC Tarpaulin bottom, along with the coated 840D Nylon Oxford material provides protection from tears and prolongs the life of the gear. You are able to see the return on your investment in a year’s time with continuous use. The back seats are padded, the skegs are removable, and the bungee storage is spacious – there is hardly anything else you would need from a kayak. Make use of the paddles that are adjustable between 0 and 60 degrees and sail from one shore to another with confidence in your skills. You don’t need to be a professional kayaker to do so – beginner’s skills and a high-quality kayak like this is more than enough. This inflatable tandem kayak that looks like a banana is the real deal – it doesn’t cost much, and is as efficient in use as a high-end kayak. Made from rugged vinyl, this model is proven to be sturdy and durable. Unlike non-inflatable kayaks, the Explorer K2 by Intex is lightweight, compact, and easy to assemble in a matter of minutes. The l-beam floor provides you with rigidity, while the removable skeg gives the kayak the stability it needs in windy weather conditions. The 2 built-in seats are inflatable, which means they can be easily aligned with your body shape for ultimate comfort. Whenever you feel like you’re starting to lose your balance, grab onto the handle located at each end of the kayak and you are safe and sound again. It comes with 2 paddles, a high-output pump, and a carry bag thus eliminating the need for making separate purchases. Whether you go camping, exploring new places, or practicing for races, the inflatable kayak by Airhead Montana will be a great option for you. It fits in the back of your car, in a suitcase, and in a duffel bag with no problems. The 12-foot beast is built from 840D Nylon and is coated with the UV water-resistant layer that ensures the ultimate long-lastingness. The 6 d-rings at the stern and the bow of the kayak help in securing the gear, while the tracking grab handles allow you to quickly get in and out of the boat. The seats are movable and are comfortable to use, which comes in handy when paddling for long hours at a time. You even get Neoprene elbow guards – this is a nice bonus to have. The bright orange exterior helps to make you visible in case of an emergency and differentiate you from other kayakers. You have probably heard about Sea Eagle if you are into water sports. If you haven’t, however, read through our description and get ready to invest in equipment ASAP. Similar to Intex, this kayak is inflatable and is made from saltwater and sun-resistant material. Weighing merely 32 pounds, this piece of equipment can hold much more than you would think. Not only can it withstand up to 650 pounds, but it can also carry your onboard essentials and possibly even a pet. Featuring 2 molded skegs, this kayak won’t be damaged by the rocks that suddenly appear out of nowhere. These skegs are built from molded plastic that stands the test of time, and so are the other elements of the kayak. The integral 5-tube l-beam floor is there to help you speed up when you want to and stop when you feel like taking a break. Beginners and recreational kayakers alike will come to appreciate this low-maintenance FireFly inflatable kayak designed by Advanced Elements. It has built-in rigid panels for smooth tracking that put it on the same level with some of the toughest hard-shell kayaks. The easy inflation is backed by the Twistlock and Spring valves, whereas the rugged exterior is the result of the 600-Denier Polyester material. For your convenience, it features molded rubber-grip handles, a tracking skeg, and a bungee cord that work together for delivering the best kayaking trip of your life. Bring your family on board with you, pack your kayaking essentials, and you are set for a weekend of adventures. When it’s just you kayaking on the weekends, an inflatable kayak like the one from Rave Sports seems like a good idea. With 200 pounds of weight capacity and a 423-Denier Nylon cover combined with the 500-Denier Tarpaulin bottom, it can be used in any type of water regardless of the currents. Don’t let the relatively small size of the boat scare you from using it – instead, make the most out of it. The miniature size means you can throw a deflated version of it in your car or on your back (packed in the backpack) and carry it to your destination without any issues. It also means you will likely spend less time assembling your kayak and more time actually kayaking. The 4 carry handles make it easy to transport your kayak on long distances, while the 1-year warranty gives you a sense of security in case something happens to your boat. The Tributary Tomcat Solo inflatable kayak by AIRE is the perfect boat for two kayaker enthusiasts. The PVC material is UV-resistant, thus making this kayak sturdy and long-lasting. The star of the show is the self-bailing floor – its construction allows you to quickly bail the water and protect the boat from debris. The whopping 17 pairs of cargo loops are there for you to tie your gear securely, whereas the C7 valves ensure easy inflation and deflation. You can use the kayak in whitewater as its stability is not compromised, but rather enhanced by the 20 gauge vinyl bladders and 3 air chambers. Surely, the investment is hefty, but you won’t wait long for a return on it. With consistent use, you’ll grow rapidly fond of this kayak and will even start recommending it to your friends. Originally built for fishing, the Elton Outdoors kayak has since become a ‘go-to’ of many outdoor enthusiasts. It is an excellent choice for both shallow and deep waters, salty and brackish waters. The 5 hard modular mounts enable you to stuff your gear with rod holders, downriggers, and bait trays. It is crafted from the durable 1000-Denier reinforced PVC with multiple layers that ensure the longevity of the boat. The Hi-Rise EVA seats are adjustable, the cargo and bungee storage is spacious, and the tracking segs are removable. You can easily change your positions while in the kayak, from sitting to standing, thanks to the solid drop stitch floor. The watercraft is just as simple to set up as it is to pack it in the backpack that comes with it, and head out the door. The 1-year warranty from the manufacturer gives you additional peace of mind, which is always a nice bonus to have. When looking for the 3-person kayak, Sevylor has got you covered. Its Big Basin model is built from the rugged PVC with a Tarpaulin bottom that is as tough as it can get. You can rest assured no punctures will pose a problem for you because of the strong and sturdy construction of the equipment. It comes with air chambers that help avoid sinking in the middle of the ride. To our regret, we know first-hand how frustrating it is to experience any mishaps when in the middle of the lake. The Boston valves built into the kayak are responsible for quick and easy inflation and deflation. The three seats are not only adjustable but also comfortable for all-day kayaking with no breaks. Whether you prefer to sit down the entire time or stand up every few hours to stretch your legs, this gear will help you maintain your stability. Use the spray covers that come with the kayak to keep yourself dry and you are bound to have a trip of your lifetime. Built with a traditional outline of a river runner, Driftsun Rover inflatable tandem kayak is a speedy boat. It has the ability to handle rough waters and bad weather conditions while keeping you afloat. The high-pressure drop-stitch floor makes it rigid yet lightweight, which means more fun kayaking. The layered PVC construction protects your watercraft from getting damaged – it will bounce off the rocks and similar “obstacles” with no punctures. The carry handles make it easy for you to transport the equipment from A to B. They are built from high-quality material that won’t rip apart halfway through the ride. The EVA seats are adjustable, the footrests can be modified too – basically, you are given the all-inclusive boat that will do its job well. There is no need to make any separate purchases before venturing out for a ride as the Rover comes with aluminum paddles, a rear tracking fin, a hand pump, and a travel bag. Designed for calm waters, Advanced Elements Island Voyage kayak is a recreational piece of equipment with sturdy multi-layered construction. The air chambers are built with separators consisting of durable material in order to ensure the ultimate leakage protection. Additionally, the 600-Denier ripstop deck material backs up the already rugged kayak and makes it a long-lasting watercraft. Long paddling trips are a real possibility with this kayak – the padded foam seats along with the retractable skeg tracking system allow you to sit back and relax for hours. You can adjust the seat so that you are not employing too much energy when kayaking for a whole day. It is super easy to install – all you need to do is to unfold and inflate the gear and then attach the seats. Regardless of what turn the weather takes on a particular day, the high-volume side tubes allow you to stay afloat at all times. If you are not willing to spend a lot of time assembling your water gear and would rather spend more time kayaking, Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person kayak model is your best bet. All it takes to inflate it is 5 minutes – the high-pressure hand pump is there to help you. When you are finished with your trip, you can fold your kayak into its own integrated backpack that has padded shoulder straps for convenient transportation. Built from 21 gauge PVC fabric with Taurplain bottom, it is bound to last you several years without developing any points of leakage. Multiple air chambers further ensure the puncture-free construction of the kayak – if one is punctured, the other ones will come to the rescue to keep the equipment afloat. The backrest and the multi-positioned footrest allows you to sit back and relax while you are drifting in the waters of a river or lake. Multiple air chambers further ensure the puncture-free construction of the kayak – if one is punctured, the other ones will come to the rescue to keep the equipment afloat. The backrest and the multi-positioned footrest allows you to sit back and relax while you are drifting in the waters of a river or lake. The Advanced Elements 10’5” Inflatable Kayak is a hybrid of an inflatable kayak and a folding frame that sports a 3-layer construction. The kayak also boasts high-end features for an affordable price. It can be set up in a matter of minutes and taken on a weekend adventure without occupying too much space. The Advanced Element inflatable kayak’s hull is built from PVC Tarpaulin – a strong and durable material that is robust and made to last. The mix of inflation chambers, rigid panels, and an aluminum frame reinforces the already heavy-duty construction, meaning that this kayak will last you a long time with proper maintenance. The manufacturer incorporated a skeg for improved tracking performance and plenty of storage space. You won’t have any issues stuffing your kayak with inflatable gear, snacks, and on-board entertainment should you decide to take a lengthy trip. Overall, the Advanced Element Inflatable Kayak is the perfect solution for kayakers who want excellent tracking, portability, and an extremely reliable hull construction for their inflatable kayak. Distinguished by its portability and comfort, the Sea Eagle RazorLite is a high-quality, reliable inflatable kayak that has acquired a loyal fan base over the years The construction of the kayak is superb. It features a drop-stitch PVC material, a removable skeg, and an adjustable seat and foot braces. The bow and stern storage areas are designed for keeping your belongings dry and are compatible with spray skirts. Besides the kayak itself, an air pump, a double-paddle oar, a patch kit, and a carry bag are all included in the Sea Eagle RazorLite package, eliminating the need for any additional purchases. Measuring at 22 by 22 inches when deflated, this kayak appeals to kayakers who also happen to travel a lot. The Sea Eagle RazorLite Inflatable Kayak is the perfect kayak for travelers who want a well constructed, comfortable, and convenient inflatable kayak with a high capacity. The Aquaglide Navarro Inflatable Kayak can handle the most demanding conditions without falter. This kayak is a favorite of many paddlers who want a portable and robust kayak. Built from long-lasting HexShell 600-Denier Polyester material, the Aquaglide Navarro features non-removable bow and stern decks that are further equipped with zippers for quick access. The seats attached to the kayak are also made of heavy-duty materials. They are installed via D-ring straps with velcro that runs along the kayak floor and the bottom of the seats. For versatility and good value for money, you can’t go wrong with Aqualide’s Navarro inflatable kayak. The Aquaglide Navarro inflatable kayak is a brilliant choice for kayakers looking for a durable and portable kayak. To make a well-thought-out decision regarding what inflatable kayak to choose, you have to evaluate the quality of its material, the weight and seating capacities, the length, and the availability of accessories. Since you will be spending 99% of your time in the water, you need to make sure the construction of your kayak’s material is sturdy and durable. There are generally 3 types of material used: vinyl, vinyl covered in a nylon or polyester fabric, and PVC. The most common fabric you will see inflatable kayaks made with is vinyl. Vinyl is cheapest and lighter than PVC and packs down smaller. But it is less rigid than PVC and therefor misses out on performance factor. But if you’re not touring long distances, this difference is moot. Be aware that vinyl inflatables with fabric offer protection against the sun and the constant stress from paddle strokes, but have the drawback of taking longer to dry and risk moulding if they are not. With PVC no gluing is involved – instead, the manufacturers weld the seams, making the material reliable and lightweight. Besides that, it is easily foldable, which comes in handy when transporting the kayak. The typical weight capacity of an inflatable kayak ranges between 350 and 700 pounds, while the seating capacity varies from accommodating one person to accommodating three people. The more people occupying an inflatable kayak and the more equipment you will be bringing on board, the bigger capacity your boat should have. Take into account that if you will be taking your furry friends with you, you will need more room so they feel comfortable. You will find most inflatable kayaks to be 12 feet long, which is a great length for maintaining buoyancy even in the windiest weather conditions. That said, there are kayaks as short as 10 feet and as long as 16 feet. The shorter ones are generally easier to maneuver, while the longer ones are more stable on the water. Other features such as removable skegs, a hand pump, paddles, and rod holders can help differentiate kayaks. Removable skegs are generally used to help with navigation, the rod holders are a required accessory for fishing, and an included hand pump and paddle eliminates the need for additional purchases. The best competitive advantage of inflatable kayaks is their superb buoyancy. Since they are filled with air and are generally lightweight, the risk of them sinking is very low. In addition, these kayaks are built from the highest quality materials that are not prone to punctures. Thanks to current-day technological advancements, the exterior of these boats might even be sturdier than the hull of hard-shell kayaks. The possibility of an inflatable kayak popping is still there, but you can remove it by storing it away from sharp objects and taking good care of it. In case you do happen to get a puncture, there are patch kits that can help you efficiently repair your inflatable kayak. If we compare the fastest hard-shell kayak with the fastest inflatable kayak, the hard-shell will be faster. However, you can’t assume that every inflatable kayak is slow. Models that are in the affordable price range can indeed be sluggish, but as it is with any other piece of equipment, you get what you pay for. Many avid kayakers claim that they found some inflatable kayaks to outperform the hard-shell kayaks in terms of speed. It’s a matter of setting your priorities straight and investing in the gear that will entirely meet your needs and expectations. The first sign of the leakage is the deflation of your kayak. To determine where the weak spot is, search for bubbles that will appear at the leak spot. Make sure you don’t float far from the shore while you are investigating your gear for potential leakage, to prevent accidents. You should keep in mind that deflation doesn’t always mean leakage. If you don’t happen to find any signs of tearing, it might just be that your kayak has deflated throughout the day. All you need to do is to pump it up with a bit more air to keep it afloat. One of the main ways to preserve the quality of your water equipment is to take good care of it. This means inspecting your kayak for punctures, thoroughly cleaning it after every use, and storing it in a dark place. You should always clean your inflatable kayak after use, as it prevents it from developing mold overtime. The cleaning process is very straightforward – hose your kayak with fresh water to get rid of the residue that has accumulated on the exterior of the equipment. Once it is clean, allow it to dry in the shade, and store it in a cool and dry place. If you already have an inflatable kayak or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it. For an inflatable kayak to be considered in the top 10, it needs to be portable, lightweight, and sturdy. These are only some of the categories that are important. To know which inflatable kayaks are the best depends on your experience and the type of water you’ll by yakking in as well. Our guide to iYaks offers more insight and advice. Otherwise, check out the list of our favorite inflatable kayaks: Although not as fast as traditional kayaks that have hard hulls, inflatable kayaks are a lot more portable and lightweight, making them ideal for holidays and travel. Most inflatable kayaks also perform exceptionally well in the water and are great for recreational kayaking. The better ones can also be used for touring. Inflatable kayaks are just as safe as traditional kayaks. You must take the proper precautions to stay safe while kayaking, such as wearing a life vest and avoiding whitewater. Ultimately, the material that inflatable kayaks are made of is robust, durable, and strong enough to take you on most aquatic adventures. There are three main types of material used in the construction depending on the category of inflatable kayak. The first category is light recreation that is made of single-layer vinyl. The second category is also vinyl but covered in a type of nylon fabric to protect from the elements. The last type of material is thick PVC, sometimes with drop-stitching, that is more rigid, durable and more expensive. Depending on what inflatable kayak you want, you can probably find it on Amazon, rei.com or evo.com. We have provided links under the where to buy section of each inflatable kayak review so that you can easily access the products. Do you have a favorite inflatable kayak? What do you love about it? Let us know in the comments below what you think makes the perfect inflatable kayak.
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Is An Inflatable Kayak Safe?
Kayaking An Inflatable?
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Inflatable Kayaks
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Hello,
I am looking for an inflatable Kayak for my dad. He is in his upper 70’s and loves to canoe; however, because of his health the canoes are getting too heavy for him to lug around. I was thinking about getting him an inflatable Kayak, but he is not able to sit down in them. Would you know of any inflatable canoes or kayak that have a chairs or higher seating option. If possible can fit two people, my mom likes to go with him.
Hey Victoria,
I personally recommend the Advancedframe Convertible Kayak: AE1007 for your parents, as it is super lightweight at 52 LBS and the seats are really comfortable. It’s difficult to find chair options for an inflatable kayak as this adds to the overall weight and portability of the kayak and for this reason, most manufacturers avoid having this option. You can always buy a Surf To Summit Elevated Kayak Seat from Amazon to add some height if these seats aren’t accessible enough. This kayak can be paddled both solo or tandem and is one of the most convenient and accessible kayaks on the market.
Hope this helps you out!
Just to add another couple of options to Christos’, there are a few possibilities from Bote. They have inflatable kayaks and models that are somewhere between canoe and kayak. Check them out here.
Dear Cristos,be so kind to reply ,informing me about the ideal length of paddle for my Sevylor ST 5656 sit on top cayak,recently purchesed by me used.The paddle that was sailed ,is 2,35 meters long.Is good enough for sailing normally o a longer size is required.Iam waiting your reply as a specialit who knows well this type of cayak that is very common in US.Thanks in advance and best regards
bought an Advanced Elements inflatable 5 yrs ago when grandkids visiting – i sold my heavy kayak and now using one of theirs; however, I’m 5’8″ and find it crunches my legs so i have to comfortably dangle them – so how do i know inside measurements? thnx
It is a great explained of a article and quite intresting to read too but Which type of kayak I should buy that can be good in quality and also have a fair price range?
I would like to know you thoughts on the HO Ranger tandem kayak. Living in Canada we do not have a huge selection but this one is available
Detailed & informative article. Thanks for sharing
Thank you 🙂
Did it help you get out there?
I heard the drift sun is most stable. true? And why is that not a key point in descriptions?
I noticed you didn’t include the Sea eagle 393L Razorlite. This is the one I am seriously considering. Did you find something with it that you didn’t care for?
Thx
Is there a kayak for fishing. I’m worried my spear may pop the boat
Do you have any single person inflatables to recommend? Im looking at the Sea Eagle 393RL. Mostly because it looks better than the other inflatables and appears easier to paddle. .
thx
I am wondering what type of Inflatable Kayak is a good option that I can bring out in the Ocean and in the river. I live near the Ocean but travel and go river rafting as well and am wondering if I could use a Kayak I buy for the Ocean on the river as well, or is this not a good idea.
Hi Leonidas,
Your paddle of 2,35 meters should be suitable for the Sevylor ST 5656 sit-on-top kayak. I do not recommend purchasing a longer paddle as this might make paddling more difficult and less efficient.
Hope this helped.
Hello Pat,
You should always check the kayak volume as it is the measurement that helps you to understand how much room the kayak has inside the cockpit. That said, the available space is relative to the dimension of your body. For this reason, we recommend testing kayaks out before buying them.
Hope this helps.
Hi Cassey,
All of the kayaks on this list are made using high-quality materials, however, if I was to choose, I would recommend the Advanced Elements 10’5” Inflatable Kayak or the Aquaglide Navarro 14’6” Inflatable Kayak as they offer an outstanding experience at an affordable price.
Hope this recommendation helps you find your ideal kayak.
Hi Sue,
The HO Ranger tandem kayak is a great option. It is made using high-quality material and also offers lots of space. The fact that it is inflatable also gives it an edge as it is more portable.
I would recommend giving it a test try before buying it as we haven’t tested this one out.
Let us know what you think of it in the comments.
Hi Patty,
Although it is true that the Driftsun kayaks offer a good level of stability, there are other inflatable kayaks such as the Advanced Elements models that are just, if not more stable. For this reason we don’t think that the Driftsun stands out for stability.
Hope this helps.
Hi Steve,
The reason that the Sea eagle 393L Razorlite didn’t make this list is that the material used in this inflatable kayak’s construction is quite fragile and we are worried about the durability level of the kayak. We only recommend inflatable kayaks that we know will last.
Hope this helps.
Hi Man of sea,
For fishing, I recommend the Elkton Outdoors Fishing Kayak. It has reinforced material that helps avoid punctures from spears. Nevertheless, you should always try and have your spear covered, especially when using an inflatable kayak.
Consider going with a fishing kayak – https://oldversion.divein.com/kayaking/fishing-kayak/
Hope this helped.
Hello Shannon,
I would definitely recommend the Advanced Elements 10’5” Inflatable Kayak.
Depending on the conditions of the river, there should be no problem using this kayak. As long as the current of the river isn’t too strong and there are not so many big rocks, you should be ok.
Hope this helped.