Our Top Picks For Inflatable Kayaks
Finding the right kayak can be a challenge. Many people are drawn to the convenience of inflatable kayaks but have reservations about their performance compared to traditional hard-shell models. A common concern is whether inflatables can truly offer the same stability and paddling experience. We understand that finding a kayak that balances portability with on-water performance is key.
We’ve researched a wide range of inflatable kayaks, focusing on features that experienced paddlers prioritize, such as durability, tracking, and overall feel on the water. We are sharing our findings to help you make an informed decision and choose an inflatable kayak that meets your needs.
Intex Excursion Pro K2
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 is an inflatable kayak designed for two people. It aims to provide a convenient and portable option for recreational paddling. Several features distinguish this model.
Key Considerations
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 uses a three-layer construction with high-molecular PVC. This design aims to make the kayak resistant to damage from abrasion, sunlight, and impacts. The kayak also includes spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and deflation. The Intex Excursion Pro K2 also features two removable skegs, which help with tracking and straight-line performance.
Who Is This For?
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 is generally considered suitable for calm waters like lakes and slow-moving rivers. This inflatable kayak’s design and features suggest it is best for recreational paddlers who prioritize portability and ease of setup over performance in rougher conditions.
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 inflatable kayak includes several features for comfort and convenience. Adjustable seats with backrests and inflatable cushions are included. There are also footrests for comfortable paddling. Fishing rod holders and a mounting bracket for accessories like a GoPro are also present. These features make it a viable option for those who want to fish or capture their paddling experience on an inflatable kayak.
| Pros | Cons |
| Relatively affordable | May not perform as well as more expensive inflatables |
| Portable and easy to store when deflated | Durability may be a concern with heavy use or rough handling |
| Includes several accessories | Inflation and deflation can take some time |
| Offers features like rod holders and mounts | Some users report issues with air leakage over time |
User feedback suggests the Intex Excursion Pro K2 inflatable kayak performs adequately in calm conditions. The included skegs aid in tracking, although it may not track as well as a hard-shell kayak. Some users have reported that the Intex Excursion Pro K2 can be more challenging to paddle in windy conditions or stronger currents. It’s inflatable design makes it susceptible to being pushed around by the wind. The Intex Excursion Pro K2’s durability is a common point of discussion. While the three-layer construction is intended to be robust, some users have reported issues with punctures or leaks, particularly with heavy use or if it encounters sharp objects.
Sea Eagle RazorLite
The Sea Eagle RazorLite is a tandem inflatable kayak designed for experienced paddlers who prioritize performance and portability.
Key Considerations
The Sea Eagle RazorLite features a drop-stitch floor for rigidity, similar to a hard-shell kayak. This design aims to provide better tracking and paddling performance compared to traditional inflatable kayaks. The RazorLite also uses high-quality PVC materials for durability. It inflates using multiple chambers for added safety on the water.
Who Is This For?
The Sea Eagle RazorLite is suited for paddlers who prioritize performance over pure comfort. The drop-stitch floor, while providing rigidity, can be less comfortable on long journeys compared to inflatable kayaks with cushioned seats. The RazorLite’s design also makes it easier to track and maneuver, making it a good choice for paddlers who plan to navigate lakes, rivers, and even coastal waters.
The RazorLite comes with several features for convenience. It includes footrests for comfortable paddling positions. The kayak also packs down into a compact carrying bag for easy transport and storage.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent tracking and paddling performance | Less comfortable seating for long trips |
| Rigid drop-stitch floor provides stability | May not be ideal for beginners due to performance focus |
| Durable PVC materials | More expensive than some inflatable kayaks |
| Portable and packs down small | Requires inflation with multiple chambers |
User reviews suggest the Sea Eagle RazorLite is a well-made and high-performing inflatable kayak. The drop-stitch floor makes it a good choice for paddlers who want a kayak that paddles closer to a hard-shell in terms of performance. However, some users report that the seating can be less comfortable for extended paddling trips. The RazorLite’s price point may also be a consideration for some budget-conscious buyers.
BOTE Rackham Aero
The Sea Eagle RazorLite is an inflatable kayak designed with performance in mind. This inflatable kayak aims to offer a paddling experience closer to that of a hard-shell kayak while retaining the portability of an inflatable kayak.
Key Considerations
A key feature of the Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak is its drop-stitch construction. This method involves thousands of internal threads connecting the top and bottom layers, creating a flat, rigid surface when inflated. This design contributes to this inflatable kayak’s tracking and speed. The Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak also features a narrow profile, which helps it cut through the water efficiently.
Who Is This For?
The Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak is generally geared towards paddlers who value performance and efficiency. This inflatable kayak is suitable for those who want to cover longer distances or navigate varied water conditions, including open water and moderate currents. This inflatable kayak might not be the best choice for those prioritizing maximum stability for activities like fishing or photography, as its narrow design prioritizes speed.
The Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak comes in different lengths to accommodate solo and tandem paddlers. This inflatable kayak also features multiple inflation chambers for added safety. If one chamber is punctured, the others will still provide buoyancy for this inflatable kayak.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent tracking and speed of this inflatable kayak | Less stable than wider inflatable kayaks |
| Rigid drop-stitch construction of this inflatable kayak | Can be more expensive than basic inflatable kayaks |
| Relatively lightweight for its performance as an inflatable kayak | Requires more inflation effort due to drop-stitch design of this inflatable kayak |
| Packs down for easy transport as an inflatable kayak | Seating may not be ideal for extended comfort in this inflatable kayak |
User feedback suggests the Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak performs well in open water and offers a good balance of speed and maneuverability. Some users note that its narrow beam makes this inflatable kayak slightly less stable than wider inflatable kayaks, requiring a bit more balance from the paddler. The Sea Eagle RazorLite inflatable kayak’s performance is often compared to more expensive hard-shell kayaks, making it an attractive option for those seeking high performance in a portable inflatable kayak.
Kokopelli Platte
The Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak is a lightweight and portable option for paddlers looking to explore calm waters like bays, inlets, and lakes. This inflatable kayak aims to provide a convenient and easy-to-use experience for recreational paddling.
Key Considerations
A key consideration for the Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak is its portability. Weighing only 24 pounds (including the seat and paddle), this inflatable kayak is easy to transport and carry to the water. It packs down to a compact size that fits easily in a car trunk or closet. Another important aspect is the quick inflation. The inflatable kayak inflates in just a few minutes using the included Nano Barrel pump. It features two HR inflation valves for easy access. The Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak also uses a drop-stitch floor to provide rigidity and stability while on the water. Two removable fins are included with this inflatable kayak which help with tracking and straight paddling. The EVA foam seat with straps allows for adjustments for a comfortable paddling experience in this inflatable kayak. This inflatable kayak also features drain valves on the floor to remove any excess water. The Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.
Who is this for?
The Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak is ideal for paddlers who prioritize portability and ease of use in an inflatable kayak. This inflatable kayak is a good choice for recreational paddling on calm water, such as exploring lakes and inlets. It might not be the best option for experienced paddlers looking for a high-performance inflatable kayak for challenging conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
| Highly portable and lightweight inflatable kayak | Designed primarily for flat water; not suitable for rough conditions |
| Quick and easy inflation of this inflatable kayak | Fins might require care to avoid scraping on rocks |
| Stable drop-stitch floor on this inflatable kayak | Seat comfort may not be ideal for very long trips in this inflatable kayak |
| Self-bailing feature on this inflatable kayak | |
| Lifetime warranty on this inflatable kayak |
Some things to consider about this inflatable kayak are that it is designed for flat water and may not be suitable for rough conditions. The fins on this inflatable kayak might require some care when entering and exiting the water to avoid scraping them on rocks. The seat on this inflatable kayak may not be as comfortable for extended paddling trips compared to some other inflatable kayaks. Overall, the Kokopelli Platte inflatable kayak is a good option for casual paddlers who value portability and ease of use in an inflatable kayak. It’s a well-built inflatable kayak with a lifetime warranty, making it a good investment for those looking for a fun and convenient way to explore calm water in an inflatable kayak.