Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable kayaks have come a long way in recent years.  For the paddler, this means way more selection and a constant evolution of features that make a day of paddling on an inflatable enjoyable.  Materials are improving, inflating techniques are simplifying and inflatable kayak craft continues to evolve every year. 

An Inflatable Kayak can be the Right Kayak

Inflatable kayaks have now evolved to a point where most paddle sports disciplines now have multiple inflatable kayak options.  We new see inflatable kayak solutions for touring, recreational kayaking, stand up paddling board and kayak hybrids, and inflatable fishing kayaks.  

Advantages of An Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable Kayak Portability

Most inflatable kayak craft involve the ability to inflate and deflate when you want to both store in confined spaces and to transport anywhere.  Inflatable kayaks deflate and fit into a simple back pack style carrying case.  With this, there is no need for garage space, roof racks and/or a second person to handle storing or transporting.  Most importantly for some, this also allows for international travel!  You can check most inflatables of this size on to a flight.

Inflatable Kayak Strength and Quality

Inflatable kayak materials have come a long way.  Most inflatable kayaks are made of PVC and are strong enough to withstand dog paws, tree branches, sharp rocks and shells and even fishing hooks.  Puncturing an inflatable kayak is now extremely difficult.  

Stability of an Inflatable Kayak

One of the biggest barriers of entry into kayaking has always been stability.  The inflatable kayak is, by far, the most stable platform on the water due to its low center of gravity and its typical width.  The wide inflated walls also make it near impossible for a paddler to fall out lending to even more confidence for the user.  

Capacity of an Inflatable Kayak

The sheer amount of buoyancy an inflatable kayak allows even the smaller sized boats a lot more capacity to carry weight than its hardshell plastic counterparts.  This lends way for larger kayakers to paddle more comfortably and confidently.  It also allows for more carrying capacity when on multi-day or day trips that involve getting across water with gear.

Inflatable Kayak Performance

Here is where a lot of the evolution is happening.  The latest models of inflatable kayaks are being designed with tracking in mind.  Inflatable kayak hull shapes are getting more and more aggressive. There are now touring options and whitewater options in inflatable kayaks.

Inflatable Kayak Prices are Affordable

Compared to many kayaks, the inflatable kayak can be more cost effective. The inflatable is now one the best options for penny pinchers!  Price is also a great ‘barrier of entry' reducer as it allows new kayakers to ease into a new paddle sport without breaking the bank.

Inflatable Kayak Reviews

Choosing the best inflatable kayak for you is becoming a bit more complicated and is now a combination of personal preferences, paddling goals, kayaking locations and price. These are the latest inflatable kayak reviews and articles done by Ken Whiting.