The Best Inflatable Kayaks in 2024

When shopping for the best inflatable kayak, think about the type of material used in its construction.

Some kayaks are made of PVC, while others are made of more eco-friendly materials like TPU. And consider the weight capacity and size of the kayak to ensure that it can accommodate the paddler and their gear.

Inflatable kayaks are a versatile and convenient option for those who love to paddle but don’t have the storage space or transportation means for a traditional hardshell kayak.

These kayaks are made of durable materials that can withstand the rigours of the water while providing a comfortable and stable ride.

Best Inflatable Kayaks

We have researched and tested various inflatable kayaks to bring you the best options based on features, durability, value, and more.

Inflatable kayaks are a great alternative to traditional kayaks as they are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be easily stored. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned paddler, our list has something for everyone.

Intex Challenger Kayak

We recommend the Intex Challenger Kayak for anyone looking to purchase an inflatable kayak. It is a great option for solo beginners.

We found the Intex Challenger Kayak to be a great option for recreational kayaking. The inflatable seats and backrests provided a comfortable ride, and the grab lines on both ends made it easy to transport the kayak to and from the water. The removable skeg allowed us to easily navigate through the water, and the kayak’s “Super-Tough” vinyl material held up well against abrasion, impact, and sunlight.

However, the kayak’s weight capacity may not be suitable for larger individuals, and the hard plastic skegs can be difficult to attach and remove. Additionally, inflating and deflating the kayak can be time-consuming, especially if you don’t have an electric pump.

Pros

Comfortable, safe, and secure
Good directional movement
Durable and damage-resistant.

Cons

The kayak only has a weight capacity of 100kg (175 lbs), so it may not be suitable for larger individuals.
The hard plastic skegs on the underside of the kayak can be difficult to attach and remove.
The kayak can be time-consuming to inflate and deflate, especially if you don’t have an electric pump.

Intex K2 Challenger Kayak

If you’re looking for an affordable inflatable kayak that is easy to set up and use, the Intex K2 Challenger Kayak is a great option.

We trialled the Intex K2 Challenger Kayak and were impressed with how easy it was to set up and use. The included repair set, 2 aluminium paddles, and inflatable pump made it simple to get the kayak ready for the water in just a few minutes.

Once we were on the water, we found the kayak to be comfortable and spacious. The removable skeg helped with directional stability and the welded paddle supports and grappling rope were handy features. However, we found that the inflatable I-beam floor was not as rigid as a hard-shell kayak, which could impact our speed and manoeuvrability.

If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use inflatable recreational kayak, the Intex K2 Challenger Kayak is a solid choice. Just be aware of the potential limitations of an inflatable kayak compared to a hard-shell kayak.

Pros

The kayak is made of rugged vinyl construction, making it durable and long-lasting.
With 3 air compartments and a quick-fill/deflate valve, it is easy to inflate and deflate the kayak quickly.
The cockpit is designed for comfort and space, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time on the water.

Cons

The inflatable I-beam floor may not be as rigid as a hard-shell kayak, which could impact your speed and manoeuvrability.
The adjustable inflatable seat may not provide as much support as a hard-backed seat, which could be uncomfortable for longer trips.

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable 2-person inflatable kayak, the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a strong contender.

When we took the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak out on the water, we loved its stability and ease of use. The kayak is comfortable and easy to manoeuvre, making it a great option for beginners. The material is durable and robust, so it can withstand regular use. We also appreciated that it is Intex certified, which gave us confidence in its quality.

One downside is that it takes some time to dry after use, so make sure to plan ahead if you need to pack it up quickly. Additionally, it’s not suitable for rough waters, so keep that in mind when planning your kayaking trip. While the oars are functional, they could be more sturdy, so we recommend being careful with them.

Pros

Comfortable and handy
Made from durable material and robust
High quality: Intex certified

Cons

Takes time to dry after use
Not suitable for rough waters
Oars could be more sturdy

Hydro-Force Rapid Kayak

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to explore the water, the Hydro-Force Rapid Kayak is worth considering.

We liked how easy it was to set up the Hydro-Force Rapid Kayak. In just a few minutes, we had the kayak inflated and ready to go. The interlocking quick-release valves made it simple to inflate and deflate, and the integrated drain valve allowed us to easily remove any excess water.

Once we were on the water, we found the kayak to be comfortable to sit in, thanks to the inflatable cushions. However, we did have some trouble adjusting the seating position to get it just right. The included paddles were on the shorter side, which made it a bit harder to control the kayak, especially in windier conditions.

We think the Hydro-Force Rapid Kayak is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use inflatable kayak. While it may not be the most advanced option out there, it’s a great way to get out on the water and explore.

Pros

Easy to inflate and deflate with interlocking quick-release valves
Comfortable design with inflatable cushions for sitting
Complete set with everything you need, including a hand pump and removable fin

Cons

Seating position can be difficult to adjust
Limited control with short paddles
Fin may fall off easily

Aqua Marina Tomahawk Air-K Kayak 3 Person – 478 cm Orange/Grey

We recommend the Aqua Marina Tomahawk Air-K Kayak for anyone looking for a recreational kayak that is easy to inflate, light to carry, and comfortable to use.

We have used the Aqua Marina Tomahawk Air-K Kayak several times and found it to be well-made and easy to inflate and pack away. It tracks well with one fin and is still manageable even without the fin. It is a little bit unstable, but this is a trade-off for speed. It is all about centre balance, and with some experience, it is easy to use.

Because of this, it’s not recommended for beginners. It is not very stable on the water, and you need to gain some experience to learn how to use it, particularly if you’re venturing out of calm waters.

The Aqua Marina Tomahawk Air-K Kayak is a great inflatable kayak that handles beautifully on the water if you’re an experienced kayaker. It is easy to inflate, deflate, clean, and store. It may seem expensive, but it is worth the investment if you enjoy kayaking and want a premium product.

Pros

The V-shape inflatable keel
The extra-long hull waterline
Adjustable, comfortable seats

Cons

The kayak is not suitable for beginners
Requires experience and good balance
It is quite expensive compared to other inflatable kayaks.

Sevylor Tahaa Kayak

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use inflatable kayak, the Sevylor Tahaa Kayak is a great option.

The Sevylor Tahaa Kayak is stable and easy to use. The canoe shape and raised side walls made for a comfortable and secure ride, and we appreciated the straps at the bow and stern.

Inflation was a breeze thanks to the included pressure control with integrated pressure display, and we were able to get on the water quickly. The wide shape of the kayak provided good stability, making it a great option for beginners.

The included inflatable seats were comfortable, but not the most supportive option out there. We also found that the high side walls made it difficult to get back into the kayak if we capsized.

Pros

The classic canoe shape and raised side walls make for a stable ride.
The wide shape of the kayak guarantees good stability, making it a great option for beginners.
The durable PVC outer shell and bar construction provide high stability on the water.

Cons

The included inflatable seats are not the most supportive
The kayak is on the heavier side.
The high side walls make it difficult to get back into the kayak if you capsize.

Hydro-force Lite Rapid Kayak

If you’re looking for an inflatable kayak that’s perfect for kayaking with friends, the Hydro-force Lite Rapid Kayak is a great choice.

We decided to test the Hydro-force Lite Rapid Kayak and were impressed with its puncture-resistant material, which seems to be durable and long-lasting. The form-fitting design kept water out of the cockpit, ensuring our safety and comfort while kayaking. We found the kayak easy to inflate and deflate quickly, which made it easy to use.

However, we did find that the Lite Rapid Kayak was a bit of a squeeze with three people, so it’s better suited for two adults and a child. Additionally, the kayak is more for recreational use than for serious kayaking, so it’s not recommended for experienced kayakers. Finally, the straps to secure the backrest of the inflatable seats could be more secure.

Pros

Hard-wearing and puncture-resistant
Comfortable, safe kayaking
Easy to inflate and deflate quickly

Cons

The Lite Rapid Kayak is a bit of a squeeze with three adults.
Only suitable for recreational use.

Bestway Hydro-Force Rapid Elite 2-Person Kayak

If you’re looking for an inflatable kayak for two that’s easy to transport and set up, the Bestway Hydro-Force Rapid Elite 2-Person Kayak is a great option.

As you’d expect from a Bestway offering, the Hydro-Force Rapid Elite 2-Person Kayak is a solid performer. The kayak is incredibly easy to set up and inflate, thanks to the quick-release valves and drain valves. The kayak comes with everything you need, including two aluminium paddles, a hand pump, two fins, two seats, and a carry bag.

The Instra-Shield pro material offers excellent puncture resistance and rigidity, which limits stretching and enhances grip. The cockpit has removable, inflatable seats with cushioned backrests for extra support and relaxation. The firm and rigid inflated floor and form-fitted construction prevent water from entering the cockpit.

One downside is that the kayak is not suitable for rough waters or extreme kayaking. It’s not as stable as a hard-shell kayak, and the inflatable seats aren’t terribly comfortable. However, for calm waters and leisurely kayaking, the Bestway Hydro-Force Rapid Elite 2 Person Kayak is a really solid product.

Pros

High-quality construction and material.
Removable, inflatable seats with cushioned backrests.
Easy to inflate and deflate

Cons

Not suitable for rough waters or extreme kayaking.
Only suitable for leisure kayaking.
Not the most comfortable seats.

Aquaplanet Inflatable Kayak 1 Person – 285 x 96cm

If you’re looking for a reliable and portable single-occupancy kayak, the Aquaplanet Inflatable Kayak is a safe choice.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Aquaplanet Inflatable Kayak, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The reinforced grab handles made it easy to carry the kayak to the water, and the quick-dry outer shell was super-convenient.

Once on the water, we found that the deep-fill seat cushion and reinforced back and side panel provided excellent support and comfort during long paddling sessions. The kayak was also very stable, even in choppy water, which made us feel safe and secure.

We did find that the kayak was a bit heavy to carry long distances, but the included rucksack made it easy to transport and store the kayak when not in use. We also found that the kayak’s maximum weight capacity of 130 kilograms may not be enough for larger individuals or those who want to carry a lot of gear.

We would recommend the Aquaplanet Inflatable Kayak to anyone looking for a reliable and portable kayak for solo paddling adventures.

Pros

Comfortable, stable, and safe
The polyester quick-dry outer shell ensures that your kayak dries quickly.
The large-capacity pump with pressure gauge allows for super fast inflation.

Cons

Heavier than others at 11 kgs.
Single occupancy only
Limited weight capacity of 130 kilograms may not be enough for larger individuals or those who want to carry a lot of gear.

Aqua Marina Memba, Leisure Drop Stitch Inflatable Kayak

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing inflatable kayak, the Aqua Marina Memba might just be what you need.

The Aqua Marina Memba inflatable kayak is designed to accommodate two people, making it a great option for couples or friends who want to explore the water together.

One of the things we appreciated about the Memba is its durable polyester hull cover, which provides long-lasting UV protection. This means that you can use the kayak in the sun without worrying about it getting damaged over time. We found the stability and buoyancy to be excellent. And the overall construction is high-quality.

Another feature that stood out to us was the high-quality fin system, which improves tracking ability. This made it easy to manoeuvre the kayak in the water, even when the currents were strong. The kayak also comes with multiple heavy-duty strap buckles for easy seat positioning, so you can adjust the seats to your liking.

While we enjoyed using the kayak, there were a few drawbacks that we noticed. For one, the kayak is a bit heavy, which might be an issue if you’re planning to carry it for long distances. Additionally, the cargo bungee cord design might not be as secure as some people would like, so you’ll need to make sure that your belongings are properly secured. Finally, the kayak might take a bit longer to inflate than some other models.

Pros

Durable long-lasting construction with UV protection.
Excellent stability and buoyancy.
The high-performance fin system.

Cons

Heavier than comparable models
The cargo bungee cord is not terribly secure.
Takes a while to inflate.

Bestway Inflatable Kayak

If you’re looking for an affordable inflatable kayak for solo adventures, the Bestway Inflatable Kayak is a solid choice.

We took the Bestway Inflatable Kayak out for a spin and were impressed with its ease of use and portability. The kayak inflates quickly with the included hand pump, and the removable fins make it easy to manoeuvre in calm waters.

While the kayak is comfortable to sit in, we found that the adjustable seat could use more padding for longer trips. The built-in storage compartment is a nice touch, but we wish it were larger to accommodate more gear.

We’d recommend the Bestway Inflatable Kayak for beginners or casual paddlers looking for an affordable and convenient option. However, if you’re an experienced kayaker or plan to tackle rough waters, you may want to consider a sturdier option.

Pros

Lightweight and easy to transport.
Comfortable seating.
Puncture-resistant, UV-resistant, oil, and water-resistant material.

Cons

Limited weight capacity (100 kgs).
Oar clasps not very sturdy.
Not suitable for rough waters.

Unisex Inflatable Kayak

We recommend the Unisex Inflatable Kayak for anyone in the market for a reliable and comfortable inflatable one-person kayak.

Triple-layer construction provides exceptional durability, and we found the adjustable padded seats to be comfortable and supportive. The kayak is also incredibly easy to set up, making it perfect for beginners or those who simply want a hassle-free kayaking experience. However, it may not be suitable for more intense kayaking experiences or rougher waters, and additional accessories may be required.

Pros

Durable triple-layer construction
Supportive, comfortable seating

Cons

Heavy compared to similar products
Only suitable for leisure kayaking in calm waters

Bluefin Scout and Ranger Inflatable Kayak

If you’re looking for a robust, 2-man kayak that is inflatable and ready to go for long-range excursions, the Bluefin Scout and Ranger Inflatable Kayak is definitely worth considering.

We liked the durability and stability of the Bluefin Scout and Ranger Inflatable Kayak. It’s made from a 3 ply PVC skin and a wide, reinforced drop-stitch base with tie-down buckles for added security. The padded seats are comfortable and easy to adjust.

One of our favourite features of the kayak is the detachable nose and tail handles, which make it easy to both portage and pack down. The included backpack is water-resistant and reinforced to make transport and storage easier.

The kayak is equipped for adventure, with onboard waterproof storage pockets, detachable front and rear bungee cargo areas, and D-Ring attachment points to customise your kayak set up

Plus, with a five-year warranty and a commitment to planting a tree for every purchase, you can feel good about supporting a company that cares about the environment.

Pros

Comfortably fits two passengers up to a max weight of 195 kg.
Versatile and practical
Good package with everything you need to get started.

Cons

Fairly pricey because of the quality and included accessories

RALIRA Inflatable Kayak

If you’re looking for an affordable and eco-friendly inflatable kayak that can accommodate multiple people, the RALIRA Inflatable Kayak might be a great option for you.

We’ve been testing out the RALIRA Inflatable Kayak and it’s a mixed bag. Positively, it’s crafted from an eco-friendly, non-toxic polymer – a definite plus for green enthusiasts. Its inflatable floors and cushions add a layer of comfort, making long hours on calm waters more enjoyable. And it’s roomy, so great for leisure paddling with friends.

However, it’s not suitable for rough waters or rapid streams, lacking the resilience of some competitors. Some initial struggles with inflation and deflation were noticeable, and questions linger around its long-term durability. So, while it shines in certain areas, it does leave room for improvement in others.

Pros

Environmentally friendly non-toxic polymer construction.
Comfortable and roomy

Cons

Only suitable for leisure use
Not suitable for rough waters
Not the most durable

AQUATEC Kayak

If you’re in the market for a high-performance inflatable kayak, the AQUATEC Kayak is a great option.

We took the AQUATEC Kayak out for a test run and were impressed with its performance. The kayak is easy to inflate and deflate, and the innovative nose design reduces water-resistance, keeping you dry even in choppy waters.

The kayak comes with a range of accessories and has comfortable, detachable seats, a pump, collapsible kayak paddles, and a carry bag, so you’re ready to hit the water straight away. The kayak is made from high-quality materials, and it felt like it would last. We also liked the air-tight valve system that prevents over-inflation.

While this is pretty high-performance for an inflatable, we still wouldn’t trust it in very rough waters. We also found that it’s not the best for really tall folks, as it’s not terribly spacious. And the clips on the side for the paddle are a bit of a pain, making it difficult to get the paddles in and out. But overall, this is still a great kayak.

Pros