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Advice for a good start adventure

Best Inflatable Kayaks for Your Next Outing

You are on our guide to the best inflatable kayaks in 2022. I am Alexandre, an avid kayaker and paddler, especially in Ardèche and I will accompany you in your choice.

Thanks to their compact and lightweight design, inflatable kayaks have taken the market by storm, offering a real alternative to rigid models which can be very cumbersome to transport and store.

These craft are a great option for those who don’t have a lot of storage space.

For this guide, I was able to test a dozen inflatable kayaks, the best overall in my opinion is the BIC Sport Air Breeze Full HP3. That said, this top-of-the-range model is aimed in particular at families since it is a 3-seater model.

To make the right choice, you must therefore take into account parameters such as the types of water on which you plan to sail, the number of people to embark, your experience, as well as your budget.

To make it easier for you, we have selected 10 of the best inflatable kayaks of the moment according to their use, and made an in-depth analysis of each of them.

Whether you are paddling in calm water or white water, one of our favorites will certainly meet your expectations.

Let’s go !

Top 10 inflatable kayaks comparison table

Contents

  • 1 Top 10 inflatable kayaks comparison table
  • 2 Best inflatable kayaks Review- Our Top Picks
    • 2.1 Best Overall: BIC Sport TAHE Air Breeze Full HP3
    • 2.2 Top editorial – INTEX Kayak excursion pro K1
    • 2.3 Best Budget– INTEX Canoë Explorer K2
    • 2.4 Top quality/price – Intex Challenger 1
    • 2.5 Best for Multiple People – Itwit Dropstitch X100+
    • 2.6 Bestway Ventura 65052
    • 2.7 Sevylor Colorado
    • 2.8 Sevylor Hudson
    • 2.9 Sevylor Tahiti Plus
    • 2.10 Sevylor Reef 300
    • 2.11 Choosing the Best Inflatable Kayak: Your Complete Guide
      • 2.11.1 What is an inflatable kayak?
      • 2.11.2 What are the advantages of an inflatable kayak?
      • 2.11.3 What are the disadvantages of an inflatable kayak?
    • 2.12 Kayaks autoviders vs Kayaks assis vs Sit-on-top kayaks
    • 2.13 How to choose a good inflatable kayak?
      • 2.13.1 Design
      • 2.13.2 The materials
      • 2.13.3 The number of people
      • 2.13.4 The weight
      • 2.13.5 The size
      • 2.13.6 Sales areas and brands to consider
      • 2.13.7 The costs
    • 2.14 How to use an inflatable kayak?
      • 2.14.1 Assembly and installation
      • 2.14.2 Regulations
      • 2.14.3 Maintaining your inflatable kayak
    • 2.15 Where can you practice kayaking?
    • 2.16 Inflatable Kayak FAQs
      • 2.16.1 Inflatable Kayak: What To Remember

Best inflatable kayaks Review- Our Top Picks

Best Overall: BIC Sport TAHE Air Breeze Full HP3

Excellent gliding performance in complete safety

Design : High pressure dropstitch and Advanced SelyTech V2 bonding
Type : 3 people (3 adults)
Dimensions (L/W) : 480 x 78 cm
Weight: 19 kg
Maximum load: 250 kg

First of all, the BIC Sport TAHE Air Breeze Full HP3 comes to you fully equipped, so you can go on an adventure right away.

In addition to the kayak with three seats and two footrests, you receive a pump, a fin, a repair kit, as well as a transport bag.

But the number 1 asset of this boat is its high quality of manufacture. The BIC Sport TAHE Air Breeze Full HP3 is designed to deliver premium performance, along with a superior level of stability and safety. To deliver on that promise, it uses a high-pressure Dropstitch design and Advanced SelyTech V2 bonding. That’s all you need to guarantee you excellent gliding properties, very good resistance and rigidity, as well as a strong sealing and holding capacity. Its streamlined body (V-section and rear section) also promotes good lateral stability coupled with good steering control.

Thanks to its dimensions of 480 x 78 cm and its design studied in every detail, the BIC Sport TAHE Air Breeze Full HP3 can easily support a maximum load of 250 kg and accommodate 3 people (3 adults), even if in function their size, three adults could feel cramped inside.

Note that this three-person kayak includes a triple independent inflation system to guarantee perfect passenger safety. Likewise, a flat luggage net on the bow allows the craft to be transported safely.

Pros
  • Premium construction and excellent performance
  • Great sealing and holding capacity
  • Superior level of stability and security
  • Well suited for three adults
  • Excellent strength and stiffness, despite reasonable weight
Cons
  • High price

Top editorial – INTEX Kayak excursion pro K1

A safe and comfortable one-person kayak

Design: PVC and reinforced vinyl
Type: 1 person
Dimensions (L/W): 305 x 91 cm
Weight: 13.72 kg
Maximum load: 100 kg

This kayak is proof that Intex still has a leading position in the market for inflatable equipment for water activities. There are certainly less expensive options, but the INTEX Kayak excursion pro K1 is an investment that we definitely recommend, if you are looking for the perfect boat to allow you to exercise your favorite sport effectively on a lake, at the beach or on the ocean.

Despite its compact size, this single-seater kayak offers remarkable performance, thanks to its design that combines PVC and reinforced vinyl. In terms of stability and safety, few models in this price range match the Intex Excursion pro K1, and it’s rightfully consistently cited as one of the best options in the single-seat kayak category.

For nautical outings in complete comfort, it allows the paddler to sit comfortably in a seat with inflatable seat and backrest. Depending on your height, you can easily adjust this removable seat, just like the footrests. A booster cushion is also provided to allow you to raise the seat.

The INTEX Excursion pro K1 inflatable kayak is also: two removable fins suitable for deep and shallow water, as well as reinforced handles at both ends for easy transport. In addition, this boat comes with everything you need to get started very quickly on your adventure. In addition to a paddle, the INTEX Excursion pro K1 comes with a hand pump, two fishing rod mounting brackets, and a small airtight bag in which you can easily slip it.

Pros
  • Great stability and good performance on the water
  • Removable and adjustable seat, with inflatable seat and backrest
  • Booster cushion to raise the seat
  • Excellent build quality
Cons
  • Nothing to say

Best Budget– INTEX Canoë Explorer K2

Excellent value for money for this affordable inflatable kayak

Design: PVC and reinforced vinyl
Type: 2 person
Dimensions (L/W): 313.94 x 91.44 cm
Weight: 14.2 kg
Maximum load: 180 kg

Designed for use in fresh water or on a lake, this affordable two-person inflatable kayak from Intex comes with two aluminum oars, a hand-operated air pump and adjustable seats that increase the feeling of comfort during your water rides. The INTEX Canoe Explorer K2 has a weight of ‎14.2 kg, but is designed to support a maximum load of 180 kg. It combines its three-chamber design with a rugged, puncture-resistant vinyl shell and rigid floor.

While certainly not the most capable inflatable kayak on our list, the INTEX Canoe Explorer K2 is a highly functional option, providing beginner kayakers with everything they need to enjoy casual outings on the water. , without committing to a heavy investment.

Its design has been studied to lend itself to use by two people and some interesting details ensure a good navigation experience. Easy to install, thanks to its 2-in-1 valves that facilitate inflation and deflation, this inflatable kayak includes, among other things, mudguards and support lines at both ends, and of course, two seats with backrests. 

These seats are decently comfortable and adjustable. They are spacious enough for two average sized adults, and offer enough legroom. However, we bemoan their lack of back support.

That said, the main downside we find to it is that it’s not as durable compared to higher spec models, so you need to take good care of it to make sure it’ll serve you well for a few days.

Good years of occasional use. Also note that this kayak does not steer well and can feel quite sluggish. Besides, other features of the INTEX Canoe Explorer K2 include bright colors for better visibility, rear space to carry food and gear, etc.

Pros
  • Inflatable seats with removable and adjustable backrests
  • Roomy enough for two average sized adults
  • Reinforced vinyl shell construction
  • Simple to set up: easy inflation and deflation
  • Excellent value
Cons
  • Seats lack back support
  • Durability can do better

Top quality/price – Intex Challenger 1

Single-seat inflatable kayak with a sleek design and a spacious cockpit

Design: PVC and reinforced vinyl
Type: 1 person
Dimensions (L/W): 274 x 76 cm
Weight: 11.34 kg
Maximum load: 100 kg

Here is another economical option from Intex that we recommend especially for its excellent price ratio. Unlike the previous one, this is a single-seat inflatable kayak that is suitable for both beginners and solo kayakers. The Intex Challenger 1 features an inflatable I-shaped floor that provides excellent stability. It features a sleek design and a spacious cockpit. Nevertheless, its length is a bit tight for tall people.

Made from a sturdy vinyl that is both puncture resistant and lightweight, this kayak deflates quickly and packs into a relatively small bag. Its inflatable is just as easy and fast, thanks to the double action inflator provided. Note that the Challenger 1 comes with an aluminum paddle, as well as an integrated cargo net for transporting equipment.

This one-person inflatable kayak isn’t the most capable or feature-packed on our list, but it does show great stability, despite its lightweight design (25 lbs). However, you must ensure that you do not exceed the maximum load capacity of 100 kg.

Other features of the Intex Challenger 1: it includes two separate air chambers for more safety and an adjustable seat with a backrest for more comfort. In addition, a mooring rope that facilitates steering and maneuvering, as well as a practical transport bag accompany this inflatable kayak for one person.

Pros
  • Comes with pump, paddle and cargo net
  • Rugged two-chamber vinyl shell construction
  • High stability, despite the lightweight design
  • Excellent value
  • Large storage space with a cargo net
Cons
  • Length not ideal for tall people (limited legroom)

Best for Multiple People – Itwit Dropstitch X100+

Kayak inflatable solid with bottom dropstitch high pressure

Conception: PVC et fond dropstitch
Type: 3 persons
Dimensions (L/L): 410 x 102 cm
Weight: 18 kg
Maximum load: 245 kg

The Itwit Dropstitch X100+ kayak is a perfect option for novice tourers who want to navigate with 2 or 3 people in calm waters. Designed to support a maximum load of 245 kg, this boat ticks the boxes of solidity, glide quality and stability. 

Using the same “dropstich” construction as the inflatable Stand up paddle boards, the deck of the Itiwit 100+ kayak is very solid. Its resistance to deformation is, among other things, favored by the tarpaulin side flanges equipped with pressure relief valves. This, in addition to the wide inflatable floor, gives it good stability.

Another area in which the Itwit Dropstitch X100+ kayak excels is comfort. This kayak features raised seats so that paddlers enjoy optimal comfort in the paddling position. Depending on their size and number, they can however reposition the seats on the bottom, thanks to the Velcro zones located under the seat and on the bottom. 

In addition to adjusting the seating comfort, the positioning of the seats also makes it possible to organize the interior so as to be able to store the necessary luggage or equipment in the rear trunk of the kayak. You can just as well choose to attach them to the rear deck.

Another positive point: the Itwit Dropstitch X100+ kayak inflates in 10 minutes with a double-action hand pump provided, and when you’re done using it, deflating it is just as easy. The boat then fits in a compact format and is easy to transport in a backpack with reinforced shoulder straps.

Pros
  • Comfortable, removable and adjustable inflatable seats
  • Great stability and very good gliding quality
  • Very good solidity with the Dropstitch bottom
  • Can perfectly fit three adults
Cons
  • There are more affordable options

Bestway Ventura 65052

Resistant and very stable kayak equipped with two adjustable seats

Design: Vinyl with UV resistant nylon cover
Type: 2 person
Dimensions (L/W): 330 x 94 cm
Weight: 17.36 kg
Maximum load: 200 kg

Bestway is another well-known name when it comes to inflatable equipment. Certified TÜV Rheinland, this Bestway Ventura 65052 model confirms the good reputation of its products, both in terms of reliability and manufacturing quality. 

It’s definitely not the most affordable 2-person kayak out there, but, on closer inspection, it’s worth paying the extra price. Thanks to its vinyl design with UV-resistant nylon cover, it does not fear the sun or sea water, and also guarantees great directional stability. In this regard, this inflatable kayak has a removable fin that facilitates navigation.

The Bestway Ventura 65052 is also an I-shaped PVC interior reinforcement technology, which allows it to accommodate two paddlers simultaneously, with a maximum load capacity of 200 kg. They will feel comfortable inside this boat, because it is equipped with two adjustable seats, each including removable storage pockets and practical storage compartments. 

So you have enough space to carry all your gear. As long as you respect the maximum recommended load, the Ventura 65052 kayak displays perfect stability, thanks to its three main air chambers and its two side chambers.

Note that this boat inflates and deflates easily. And, when fully deflated, you can store and transport it effortlessly without cluttering up space. 

Besides, the Bestway Ventura 65052 comes with full equipment. In addition to the inflatable kayak, you receive two paddles (aluminum 218 cm in length with 2 rudders each), a manual pump and a repair kit.

Pros
  • Adjustable seats with storage compartments
  • Solid vinyl design
  • Quickly ready to use
  • Easy to store after use
Cons
  • Slightly short paddles

Sevylor Colorado

Sturdy and stable kayak for safe navigation

Design: Polyester cover and PVC side chambers
Type: 2 person
Dimensions (L/W)  : 331 x 88cm
Weight  : 15 kg
Maximum load : 200 kg

Featuring a thick PVC frame, coupled with a durable polyester cover, the Sevylor Colorado is a sturdy 2-person kayak that can be used on lakes, seasides, in a wide range of water activities , including fishing. Its design, including two PVC side chambers, among other things, offers a certain resistance to perforations, in addition to guaranteeing high stability and safety on the water. 

As a bonus, you also benefit from great maneuverability, thanks to the supplied removable fin and the welded directional strips.

If the Sevylor Colorado is one of our favorite inflatable kayaks, it’s also because it can comfortably accommodate two people. Not only does it have fairly generous dimensions (331 cm for the length and 88 cm for the width), but its two easy-to-adjust inflatable seats provide a good level of comfort for two average-sized paddlers. 

In addition, the maximum load capacity of 200 kg concedes a good margin of maneuver to carry equipment. However, the Sevylor Colorado will likely be restricted for two large-bodied adults who go with lots of gear. Note that it can be converted into a two-person or one-person kayak, depending on your needs.

In addition to its stability, its maneuverability and its good level of comfort, we appreciate the ease of inflation of this kayak. It includes three independent air chambers and two Boston valves, which ensures easy inflation in less than 10 minutes, as well as rapid deflation. 

For pressure control, an Easy Inflation gauge is provided. The set also includes a pair of paddles, a fin, a boat repair kit and a kayak carrying bag.

Pros
  • Thick PVC construction for maximum stability and safety
  • Comfortable, removable and easy to adjust seats
  • Can comfortably accommodate two people (of average height)
  • Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation
Cons
  • Complaints about the quality and reliability of the nanometer

Sevylor Hudson

A spacious and comfortable kayak for family getaways

Design: Polyester cover and PVC side chambers
Type: 3 people (2 adults + 1 child)
Dimensions (L/W): 374 x 89 cm
Weight: 18 kg
Maximum load: 210 kg

Let’s stay at Sevylor with this superb kayak designed for three people (2 adults + 1 child). The Sevylor Hudson confirms all the good we think of the brand, both in terms of manufacturing quality and guarantees of safety and performance. 

Designed with three independent PVC chambers and a durable polyester cover, this inflatable kayak boasts high stability and safety on the water, allowing you to venture on lakes and seasides with peace of mind. .

But in addition to giving a good impression of solidity and reliability, the Sevylor Hudson offers its occupants a good level of comfort while paddling. For this purpose, the three inflatable seats are covered with a polyester cover and include straps, which allows them to stay in place. 

The seats do not move constantly. That said, depending on the size and number of people, you have complete freedom to reposition them. Likewise, their backrest can be easily adjusted according to the desired support.

You will have understood it: the Hudson inflatable kayak from Sevylor adapts to your comfort needs. Some amenities are also provided to make it user-friendly. Boston valves make inflation and deflation as quick as it is easy, thanks to air control. 

Another positive is how easily this kayak folds down to the size of a large bag. All you have to do is slip it into the sturdy nylon carrying bag provided. That said, the 18kg weight might be heavy for some.

Pros
  • Superior level of stability and security
  • Excellent build quality
  • Robust and durable design
  • Seats with adjustable comfort as needed
Cons
  • Can be heavy for some

Sevylor Tahiti Plus

An ideal kayak for two adults and a child

Design  : Polyester cover and PVC side chambers
Type: 3 people (2 adults + 1 child)
Dimensions (L/W): 363 x 88 cm
Weight: 12 Kg
Maximum load: 200 kg

If you are looking for an inflatable kayak that is ideal for family water adventures, you will hardly find an option that offers better value for money than the Sevylor Tahiti Plus. With dimensions of 363 x 88 cm when inflated, this kayak can accommodate three people, namely two adults and one child. 

It is designed to support a maximum load of 200 kg and, as long as you do not exceed this limit, the boat combines stability and comfort on the water, including when you face waves (not too big).

The Tahiti Plus can count on its durable polyester cover that resists abrasion and damage, as well as its three air chambers separated from each other: two PVC side chambers and a PVC floor chamber. Their independence promotes an additional level of safety, and contributes to the great stability of the boat. The wide shape of the kayak and the inflatable floor with a double-walled bottom also allow you to navigate in complete peace of mind.

In terms of comfort, Sevylor has made healthy choices such as the three removable and adjustable seats with high backs. They guarantee a lot of comfort during paddling, and depending on the discretion of the occupants, it is possible to easily adjust them or remove them.

Another thing that we particularly appreciate about the Sevylor Tahiti Plus is the ease of inflation, in less than 10 minutes. Not only does it have Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation, but a test pressure gauge is built in to ensure accurate inflation.

When the kayak is fully inflated, the bar is in the green zone, while a red bar indicates whether you need to reduce or increase the air quality. Another advantage: the Sevylor Tahiti Plus is very easy to store and transport to your next adventure. 

It includes a Bacpack system allowing it to be carried like a backpack. Note that it is surprisingly light (only 12 kg) for a kayak for three people.

Pros
  • Easy to store and carry like a backpack
  • Three removable and adjustable seats with high backrest
  • Built-in pressure gauge to ensure accurate inflation
  • Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation
  • Design with a solid PVC interior coating
Cons
  • No paddles provided (in the version we recommend)

Sevylor Reef 300

Explore the seabed with this transparent window kayak

Design: Polyester cover and PVC side chambers
Type: 2 person
Dimensions (L/W): 296 x 84 cm
Weight: 8.5 kg
Maximum load: 150 kg

To finish this top 10, it is still a kayak from Sevylor that we have chosen to recommend to you, but here it is a two-seater model designed to lend itself to use on lakes, sea ​​or for activities such as fishing. It combines with its wide shape, a polyester cover design and independent and replaceable PVC side chambers, which ensures good overall stability.

Comfort is also there, with in particular the two removable and easy-to-adjust seats. That said, two adults could feel cramped inside: it’s more ideal for an adult and a child. While being compact, the Sevylor Reef 300 offers good performance. 

Not only is it stable, but its very good maneuverability allows you to discover the aquatic world in complete safety. Special mention to the effectiveness of its reinforced envelope to provide additional security. Similarly, the Sevylor Reef 300 inflatable kayak includes a transparent arched window on the front for exploring the seabed.

Some well-thought-out design details make navigation pleasant and user-friendly. In particular, you can count on the elastic cords to transport the equipment as well as on the overall design which lends itself to the attachment of diving or snorkeling accessories in complete peace of mind. However, keep in mind that this inflatable kayak is designed to support a maximum load of 150 kg.

Other great features include large jumbo valves for easy inflation and deflation, plus two removable foot pegs for increased performance and easier paddling. Note that the Sevylor Reef 300 comes with the purchase with a carrying bag, a pressure gauge, a removable fin, as well as a repair kit.

Pros
  • Transparent window in the front to explore the seabed
  • Inflatable, removable and easy to adjust seats
  • Practical and comfortable
  • Good stability and maneuverability
Cons
  • Not suitable for two adults (ideally one adult and one child)

Choosing the Best Inflatable Kayak: Your Complete Guide

Are you a fan of nautical activities? Have you had the opportunity to try kayaking and would like to purchase an inflatable model?

If you want to buy a kayak for your nautical outings and you do not have enough space to store a rigid kayak, in this case an inflatable model may be considered!

What is an inflatable kayak?

An inflatable kayak, as for inflatable paddles, is the counterpart of rigid kayaks. They concentrate all the assets that make them a success but in an inflatable format. With them, you have the freedom of stretches of water for walks, fishing or nautical excursions.

What are the advantages of an inflatable kayak?

Inflatable kayaks are lightweight, easy to transport and more accessible than rigid kayaks. They also offer, like the latter, access to places that are difficult to access for fishermen or even beautiful walking spots for nautical hikers.

What are the disadvantages of an inflatable kayak?

Inflatable kayaks have the same disadvantages as inflatable paddles, namely a shorter lifespan than their rigid counterparts. They will be less durable, more fragile and must therefore be chosen with care to guarantee optimal use.

Kayaks autoviders vs Kayaks assis vs Sit-on-top kayaks

Kayaks autoviders:

Usually used in places with white water, the particularity of these kayaks lies in its openings or the holes on the bottom. These are used to extract the water when it enters the boarding. Thus, you do not risk sinking or having the full of water in the boat. Thus, its design is reserved especially for rafting in the river and in the rapids.

Self-draining kayaks are the cheapest and easiest to find. However, its lack of a fin for tracking keeps water inside itself. This is why they are not recommended for rides on a lake.

Kayaks assis:

It is the first model that comes to mind when it comes to kayaking. As the name suggests, you can sit comfortably inside with an enclosed cockpit. Thus, your feet will be completely dry during the trip even if the waters are very rough.

Compared to Sit on Top kayaks, it is tighter and less comfortable. But, it’s the best choice for paddling in rough water, whitewater or when it’s cold. Don’t forget to bring a spare skirt.

Sit-on-top kayaks:

If you are looking for as little movement as possible, go for sit-on-top kayaks. They are most suitable in case of seasickness or if you are claustrophobic. Indeed, there is no closed cockpit. You will sit directly on top of the kayak, on a seat and backrest with feet for easy entry and exit.

This model is very popular with skillful and muscular fishermen, because it facilitates the casting of the rod and access to the equipment they need. Only, it is recommended to use it only in warm weather and in calm water.

How to choose a good inflatable kayak?

To choose the right inflatable kayak for your use, our buying guide will give you all the keys to know before you start.

Design

There are two types of design for inflatable kayaks:

  • Sit on top: This is the simplest form that is generally found on family kayaks, guaranteeing a certain conviviality thanks to good stability. These kayaks are recommended for walks or hikes on calm water surfaces, such as a river for example, and are easy to maneuver thanks to their good stability due to their generous width.
  • Bridged: This specific shape is aimed at performance enthusiasts. Well suited for long hikes but also environments where the weather would be rough, they benefit from a good gliding performance.

The materials

There are different materials for the design of inflatable kayaks:

  • 100% PVC: This is a design most commonly found on small inflatable craft such as ‘beach boats’. They are most of the time free of protections at the level of the flanges, which gives them a fairly limited lifespan. Unsuitable for long excursions, they will be especially appreciated for fun activities along the coast.
  • The nylon or polyester envelope: This is a very common design on the market. A fabric envelope protects the bladders contained inside the inflatable kayak from abrasions or small external shocks encountered during handling and navigation. Often composed of 3 independent internal compartments called “chambers”, these kayaks guarantee good safety for their occupants.
  • The dropstitch: This is a design found on inflatable SUPs (Stand Up Paddle) offering first-rate rigidity without impacting the weight of the kayak. Expensive, they are quite rare but we are now seeing the appearance on the market of kayaks whose only floor is designed in dropstitch.

The number of people

There are kayaks on the market capable of carrying up to 4 people on board. The different configurations are as follows:

  • One-seater inflatable kayak: Light, suitable for sports outings as well as peaceful hikes, they can be affordable but also technical.
  • Two-seater inflatable kayak: This is the best-selling type of kayak because it is popular for family outings and outings with couples or friends.
  • Three-seater inflatable kayak: This is an ideal family kayak for sharing beautiful nautical moments with a child, for example. Very stable, it will be able to carry equipment for a long day. There are 3+1 kayaks capable of carrying two adults and a child, but also 3-person kayaks capable of carrying three adults.
  • 4-seater inflatable kayak: This is a very imposing model on which a family with two children can board, for example.

The weight

An inflatable kayak is, as we saw in the introduction, light. Compared to a rigid kayak, you will save half the weight of the boat alone, or about 15kg on average. Inflatable kayaks weigh on average around 15kg. Obviously, the larger the boat (the 3 or 4-seater models for example), the heavier it will be.

We can find ultra-light 1-person boats that will weigh around 7kg and will therefore be very easy to transport. Of course, the equipment you take with you on board will also influence the total weight of the inflatable kayak. Be aware that to facilitate the transport of a kayak, some manufacturers sell their products with a very practical backpack type transport bag.

The size

The size of the kayak will influence its performance: the longer it is, the faster it will spin through the water, but the slower it will turn. Thus, depending on the type of activities you want to practice, the length of the kayak will be important. For long walks or day hikes, a long, slender kayak will be preferred. For walks in rivers (sometimes narrow) or along the coast, a shorter model will be more manageable.

We consider that a kayak for one person should be quite short (between 2.50m and 3.90m) unless you want to buy a very fast model (which can measure up to 4 or 5m long but having the disadvantage of being difficult to transport or launch).

Sales areas and brands to consider

You will find inflatable kayaks in large specialized brands, sports brands like Decathlon but also on the main online merchant sites like Amazon for example. Brands such as Decathlon, Bic, Intex, Gumotox or even Sevylor and Bestway will be able to offer you quality models.

The costs

The price of an inflatable kayak will obviously depend on the configuration of the chosen model and its design. As an indication, for less than 200€ we will mainly find access models of the beach inflatable boat type. For 180 to 350€, you will find real models of entry-level inflatable kayaks. For a mid-range, count between 350 and 500€. Finally, for very high-end or very technical models (such as dropstitch models), prices can easily exceed 2000€.

How to use an inflatable kayak?

You have purchased your inflatable kayak. Now is the time to get started and take the plunge. If you are a beginner or want to introduce your children to this kind of sport, it is advisable to call on an instructor or a coach. This is to teach you all the right things to do when handling this type of boat. This part of our article will give you the essentials to know about using an inflatable kayak. 

We will tell you, in particular, how to mount it, what regulations are in force, as well as the basic maintenance to be done to ensure its longevity.

Assembly and installation

The assembly of an inflatable kayak is quite easy and quick. Go to your place of embarkation with your kayak. Take it out of its cover or storage bag. Unfolding should be done delicately. Open the valves, connect the pump and inflate each part of the kayak, until it is well formed. You can now install the accessories and store the pump. Once that’s done, you can push your inflatable kayak into the water and settle into the seat.

Regulations

Kayaking is one of the dangerous sports, and if you are a fan, do not venture there alone, especially on fast-flowing rivers or deep waters. This is precisely the reason why kayaking can not be done without having a permit for navigation more than three hundred meters from the shore. All kayaks must be registered with Maritime Affairs. In addition, it is strictly forbidden to paddle more than 6 nautical miles.

Maintaining your inflatable kayak

Maintaining an inflatable kayak is fairly basic, but must be done correctly to extend its life. Once you have finished your session, deflate your kayak by opening the valves and remove the water well inside by tilting your kayak. Once home, unfold it and wash it and all the accessories in fresh water to remove dirt. Be sure to dry it well and fold it up properly in its storage bag until your next outing.

Where can you practice kayaking?

You are spoiled for choice to initiate yourself to this rather sporty practice. In fact, it all depends on your level.

For beginners

If you are a beginner in the subject, find an accessible and quiet spot to initiate yourself gently. This is also the case if you lean on the side of relaxation rather than performance.

There are several rivers that are calm and conducive to welcoming your first paddle strokes. If you live in the Paris region, for example, go to the Le Loing river. You will only have to cross a few slides.

You will find the same tranquility between Nevers and Gien, near Saumur or on the wild Loire. The currents are very modest for slightly longer stages.

Sea kayaking would also be a good option if you are daring. Only, favor calm water and be careful not to stray far from the coast. The favorite spots are: the creeks of Cassis, the Corsican coast or the coasts of Brittany.

For the confirmed

If you are ready to take it to the next level, head to the Gorges du Verdon. It is a classic destination and undoubtedly one of the popular kayaking spots in France. Limestone cliffs and turquoise water are waiting for you!

The Baie de Somme is also a paradise not to be missed. You will navigate between fresh water and salt water and zigzag between the islands. It is a real little Eden for kayak enthusiasts, but also for wildlife lovers. Indeed, you can observe multitudes of birds and seals. However, bring a windproof jacket.

For fans of sea kayaking, go to the bay of Brest where a real hike on the water awaits you. This is the best place to learn to paddle following the rhythm of the tides.

For Experts

All professionals in this field know the Gulf of Morbihan. Paddling in the strong currents all around its small archipelagos is an unparalleled challenge. If you feel tired, take a step back on the Rhuys peninsula.

During the holidays, try a kayak trip by going to Spain. This country offers you excellent kayaking spots with extraordinary Pyrenean rapids. Strong emotions will be guaranteed. If you have the courage, push your kayak to the international descent of the Sella. This festivity of colors and music is the meeting point of world canoeing.

Inflatable Kayak FAQs

What accessories come with an inflatable kayak?

It all depends on the offers offered by the manufacturers. On the other hand, to accompany your purchase, it will be interesting to acquire an electric inflator, but also specific slippers so as not to damage it during use. The more accessories you choose to buy, the higher the bill will obviously be.

How to inflate a kayak?

Two solutions are available to you: mechanical pumps which will require some effort on your part to inflate in a good ten minutes (you can find hand or foot pumps) or you can consider buying a much faster electric pump.

What’s the difference between a canoe and a kayak?

The type of craft may be the same, but they are two different disciplines. It is not the number of people that makes it possible to say that it is a canoe or a kayak. The first difference is in the type of paddle. The canoe uses a single paddle, while the kayak uses a double paddle to have more balance. The second difference is the position of the paddler. On a kayak, the position is seated, or on an inflatable canoe or not, the rower is on his knees with his legs at the back. Especially since the two disciplines do not have the same origins. Canoes are of Indian origin, while kayaks are descended from the Inuit.

How to maintain an inflatable kayak?

Maintaining an inflatable kayak is quite simple. To guarantee a good longevity, it will be necessary to rinse and dry it after each use and before folding it deflated. To fold it, it will be necessary to limit too marked folds as much as possible which could lead to a tear in the long term. Once stored, avoid large temperature differences that could weaken it.

Inflatable Kayak: What To Remember

The inflatable kayak is particularly suitable for beginners. With him, there is no question of practicing river descent and having a slightly more sporty activity. The inflatable kayak is naturally reserved for simple quiet excursions, for family outings or simply for fishing. Thrill-seekers will turn to rigid kayaks.

Equipped with care, you will be able to enjoy these escapades at sea or on the rivers, with a much appreciated feeling of sliding and freedom. Kayaking remains accessible to all budgets and the ease of transport and storage convinces future kayakers.

Aiden Freeborn
Aiden Freeborn

Aiden is a freelance journalist and content writer who writes about the outdoors, the environment, and travel. He is a Survival and Preparedness enthusiast who loves everything outdoors. Aiden has always enjoyed pushing people to step outside their comfort zones. His mission is to help others get out of their homes to have fun and stay active in nature.

Filed Under: Kayaks & Canoes

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