Kayaking rivers presents unique challenges and hazards. Kayakers will need skills and knowledge they may not need on a calm body of water. Kayaking anything from light current to whitewater rapids, while also keeping an eye out for fallen trees, nefarious rocks, and dams is challenging.
Paddling rivers demands certain skills from the kayaker, and specific design traits from the boat. In this article, I'll unpack the different kayaks used for river trips so that you have a solid baseline to select the best kayaks for rivers.
What are the best kayaks for rivers?
Generally speaking, the best kayaks for rivers are ones that are stable. Kayaks that are shorter in length, more maneuverable, and won't “swamp” easily are the best kayaks for rivers. In my opinion/experience, there are four types of kayaks that check these boxes: sit on top kayaks, sit on top inflatable kayaks, recreational sit inside kayaks, and whitewater kayaks. Let's look a little closer at each style.
Sit On Top Kayak
Sit on top kayaks are reliably stable, comfortable to sit in with adjustable seats in the higher-end models. Any water that comes aboard will simply drain back out through the scupper holes. If you happen to flip while you're out there, you can either just right the ship and climb back on, or you can drag it ashore more easily than a sit-inside that's full of water.
Inflatable Kayak
Contrary to (somewhat) popular belief, inflatable kayaks can be amazing river-running boats. They're as comfortable as a floating lounge-chair, but quality models are surprisingly durable (as long as some care and attention is given). Inflatable kayaks also tend to be spectacularly stable.
You'll be amazed how difficult it is to flip one of these, even in rough conditions. I consider them the 4×4 of the kayaking world. The main drawback here is that they are rarely high-performing crafts – certainly not compared to a hardshell of the same class. But if you just want to chug along casually, a sit-on-top inflatable is a perfect way to go.
Sit Inside Kayak
Sit inside kayaks aren't ideal for whitewater rivers, but if the current is consistently mild, then there's no reason why you can't take an everyday kayak down your local waterway. If you do tip over the kayak, the cockpit will swamp. This probably means swimming while dragging the boat to shore in order to empty it out. But if you like the feel of a sit-inside kayak and want to really get after it on the river, just be aware of any strong current.
Whitewater Kayak
A whitewater kayak is the ultimate high-performance sit inside kayak. These playful boats can handle anything from Class 1 moving water to Class 5 waterfalls. They have small cockpits (where you sit inside) that are designed to be sealed from the water with a skirt.
These river kayaks are short and wide (i.e. stable and maneuverable). The only real limitations of whitewater kayaks are those imposed by us whitewater kayakers. If you are starting to whitewater kayak, practice your kayak roll in a local pool. This will make sure you are able to stay in the kayak if you get knocked over in the waves.
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If you're looking to switch it up and kayak rivers instead of lakes, these are the four types of river kayaks. You don't have to be a pro kayaker to take on varying levels of river current. It certainly helps to have the right river kayak for the job. If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more paddling tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to PaddleTV and sign up for our In4Adventure.com newsletter.
Sit on top kayak: Jackson Kayak YuPik
Inflatable kayak: Star Inflatable Kayak
Sit inside kayak: Jackson Kayak Tupelo
Whitewater kayak: Jackson Kayak Rockstar V
Paddle: Aqua Bound Shred Whitewater Paddle, Bending Branches Angler Classic Fishing Paddle
PFDs: NRS Zen, NRS Chinook
Helmet: WRSI Current Helmet
