Lakes, rivers, and the ocean are great places to have fun. But buying a boat is a major investment. Even an inexpensive motorboat requires a trailer, a boat launch, and other added inconveniences that complicate your experience. Thankfully, kayaks offer a reliable alternative that’s relatively lightweight and convenient for transport.
Today, we’ll be looking for the best recreational kayak, meaning the top-rated kayaks for everyday folks who want to have a good time without sacrificing a bundle of cash for a super-specialized sportster model with tons of bells and whistles.
In our kayak reviews, we looked at kayaks that are appropriate for beginners. We also looked for a good balance of price and durability, so some models are rapids-ready while others are better suited for smooth, calm lakes and relaxing on a lazy river. We’ve also included several kayaks with fishing options, and some budget options so you can find the best kayak under $500.
Best Recreational Kayaks Available Online
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07MQ5SGTZ” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]1. Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 Kayak [/easyazon_link]
Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 Kayak
Features
- Propel Pedal Drive System w/Forward and Reverse
- Hand Sewn Seating w/Adjustable Inseam
- Left Hand Rudder Control System
- Impact Resistant Stern Rudder
- Hard Shell Bow Hatch w/Bungee
The Native Watercraft Slayer 13 features a pedal drive for hands-free operation.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- Fiberglass body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 13’ 2” long x 33” wide
- Weighs 89 pounds
- 500-pound weight capacity
- Pedal-driven design
- 3 built-in flush mount fishing rod holders
The Native Watercraft Slayer 13 is a large, flat kayak that has a pedal drive. This allows you to operate it in a hands-free – or nearly hands-free – fashion. The only thing you’ll need to do with your hands is operate the rudder, which is controlled by your left hand via a comfortable rubber joystick.
It’s generous in size, with a wide, flat design that’s stable enough for large people, as well as for standing and casting. The deck measures 33 inches in width, so you’ll have plenty of space to turn around while you’re reeling in a lunker. The Slayer 13 offers an impressive 500-pound capacity, which is significantly more than most single-person kayaks on the market.
This kayak also features a pair of flush mounted rod holders, which are positioned behind the seat. This makes it a perfect choice for trolling.
Pros
- Large weight capacity
- Ergonomic, adjustable seat
- Large storage capacity
- Bow to stern rail mounts
Cons
- Expensive
This kayak is ideal for larger-framed people, or for anglers who want to stand and cast.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00H35ZVV8″ locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]2. Sun Dolphin Aruba SS Sit-in Kayak [/easyazon_link]
Features
- Great for rivers and lakes
- P.A.C. (Portable Accessory Carrier) can be used as extra storage
- Covered console
- High density polyethylene
The Sun Dolphin Aruba SS features a large splash shield that keeps your legs dry while you’re out on the water.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- High-density polyethylene body
- Sit inside design
- Measures 12’ long x 29.6” wide
- Weighs 47 pounds
- 395-pound weight capacity
- 3 built-in flush mount fishing rod holders
The Sun Dolphin Aruba SS is a tough polyethylene kayak that measures 12 feet in length. This gives it excellent straight-line stability, while the generous splash shield will keep your legs warm and dry while you’re paddling.
The hull itself is strong enough to take some abuse, although you’ll want to be wary of taking the Aruba SS into any seriously challenging waters. The hull material is strong, but thin, and it’s not going to stand up to getting smashed against a rock. That said, the kayak is lightweight for a solid-hulled design, tipping the scales at only 47 pounds.
The seating compartment on this kayak is very comfortable. The bottom and back of the seat are both cushioned, and there are extra cushions inside the hull to protect your knees from banging around.
Pros
- Long, stable design
- Lightweight
- Comfortable, padded cockpit
- Very dry seating compartment
- Affordable
Cons
- Not very durable
- Limited storage capacity
This stable kayak is virtually impossible to capsize, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07KT9JXMP” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]3. Old Town Predator PDL[/easyazon_link]
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Predator PDL Fishing Kayak
Features
- The Old Town Predator PDL Fishing Kayak is the most advanced pedal-powered hands-free fishing kayak of its kind, allowing you to focus on the fishing - not maneuvering your kayak.
- Focus on the fishing, not maneuvering your kayak, thanks to the award-winning, maintenance-free PDL drive. Instantly pedal in both forward and reverse.
- Turn the kayak with ease using a rudder control knob for buttery handling and, when desired, lock the steering knob into place using the screw-lock to keep your kayak straight while fighting a fish in windy conditions.
- Packed with features, the Predator PDL's award-winning design includes an adjustable Element Seating System, a slip-resistant Exo-Ridge deck and oversized tank well, a built-in fish finder transducer scupper.
- Includes molded-in rod holders, six drillable accessory plates for customization, rod tip protectors for horizontal transport, a large water-tight bow hatch with Click Seal cover and rectangular Click Seal hatch under the seat, tackle storage.
The Old Town Predator PDL is exceptionally long and high-capacity for a single-person kayak.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- Fiberglass body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 13’ 2” long x 36” wide
- Weighs 130 pounds
- 500-pound weight capacity
- Pedal-operated design
- 1 removable center mount and 2 built-in flush mount fishing pole holders
The Old Town Predator PDL is a monster in the water, measuring a smidge over 13 feet in length. It compensates by being three feet in width, so it’s stable enough for choppy lake waters as well as for standing and casting while you fish. The downside of this size and stability is the weight; the fiberglass hull weighs 130 pounds, so you’ll need to use a boat launch or get some help.
This boat offers a large, 500 pound capacity, which makes it perfect for carrying a cooler, a bait bucket, or even camping supplies. With large bungee straps behind the seat, you’ll have more than enough space for all your supplies. The seat is also comfortable; it’s crafted from quilted nylon and is adjustable both front to back and up and down.
Pros
- Large weight and storage capacity
- Wide, stable design
- Large control knob
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
This pedal-powered kayak was purpose built for anglers – and for anyone who loves speed.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07QFWQSZP” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]4. Darget Inflatable PackRaft Kayak with Aluminum Oars[/easyazon_link]
Darget 93"x39" Inflatable PackRaft Kayak
Features
- Fast shipping: we will arrange shippment within 24 hours,you will get the packraft within 5-10 days after you placed the order
- New design and Good performance:This new design is better balance between the bow and the stern,also better buoyancy of the front hull, which means more luggage that can be carried.It allows the paddlers to enter the cabin and close the spray deck quicker and more convenient,Even when the waves are too large, some water does not enter the water hydrant intentionally
- Application: this packrafts size is 235cm length x 98cm width x 28cm tube suitable for 1 person, you can take it to any water such sea/lake/river/waterfall/Shoal and so on
- Accessories: a paddle ,a carry bag ,a foot pump and a repair kit will following with the packrafting,the carry bag allow you easy to pick up the packrafts and the foot pump allow you to inflate/deflate within 3 minutes indoor and outdoor
- After-sale-service: we have 2 year warranty . we accept full refund in case of bad quality within 7 days
The Darget Inflatable PackRaft is small and lightweight enough to take on a short camping trip.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit inside design
- Measures 7’ 9” long x 39” wide
- Weighs 13 pounds
- 275-pound weight capacity
- Includes collapsible aluminum paddle, foot pump, carrying case, and repair kit
The Darget Inflatable PackRaft is a small, inflatable kayak that weighs only 13 pounds. It collapses small enough to fit in a backpack, although you should be warned that it will take up the bulk of space in most backpacks. It’s great for a hike-in, hike-out day trip, but it’s still too bulky to be a good choice for most multi-day backpacking trips.
This kayak is designed to be highly maneuverable. It’s short and wide, shaped almost more like a raft than a kayak. This makes it easy to turn and avoid obstacles, but awkward for paddling quickly. It offers good splash protection, and it’s surprisingly durable for its size, price, and weight. The PackRaft is marine rated, so you can even take it in the ocean.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Good splash protection
- Marine rated
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Pricey
This kayak is a great choice for campers, backpackers, or for anyone with a larger boat who wants an emergency backup.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B001Q3L6YO” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]5. Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 Person Inflatable Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 Person Inflatable Kayak
$359.00 in stock
2 used from $341.05
Features
- Rigid bow and stern - Built-in rigid panels define the bow and stern and improve tracking.
- Tube cover - Inner tube cover adds stiffness and abrasion protection.
- Durable and light - Unique outer cover provides durability in a lightweight design.
- Easy setup - Twistlok valves and high flow Spring valves allow for quick setup time.
- Comfortable integrated seat - This inflatable kayak comes with a built-in seat for maximum comfort and performance.
The Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 is a teardrop-shaped kayak that’s engineered for maximum maneuverability.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit inside design
- Measures 8’ 4” long x 34” wide
- Weighs 23 pounds
- 250-pound weight capacity
The Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 is significantly wider near the stern than it is towards the bow, giving it a unique, teardrop-shaped profile when viewed from above. It weighs only 23 pounds, and like the PackRaft it’s primarily built for light weight and maneuverability.
This inflatable kayak features a wide splash shield that keeps your legs dry even in very choppy water. However, it doesn’t include an air pump, which is disappointing on a kayak that requires an air pump to function.
The Lagoon 1 also offers plenty of storage. It has a large bungee web on the prow, with adjustable webbing that can be used for tying down any sized gear, from a lunchbox to a camp cooler. Although not adjustable, the inflatable seat is surprisingly comfortable.
Pros
- Very maneuverable
- Good splash protection
- Plenty of storage space
- Marine rated
Cons
- No paddle or air pump
If you’re looking for a kayak that makes quick turns a breeze, this is a solid choice.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B01D27M1UY” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]6. BKC UH-TK181 Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak [/easyazon_link]
BKC UH-TK181 Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak
Features
- THE PERFECT KAYAK FOR OUTDOOR FUN: Our Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC TK181 tandem kayak has extra space to fit 3 - making it ideal for paddling with kids on family adventures and epic fishing trips.
- FULLY LOADED ACCESSORIES: Our kayak comes equipped with 2 soft padded seats, 2 adjustable aluminum paddles, 2 waterproof hatches, 6 built in rod holders, 2 paddle parks, and 1 bungee cargo tie down. We have all the accessories you need for your next excursion.
- CRAFTED FOR STABILITY: Our Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material is superior to inflatable kayaks and a capable craft on ocean, lake, or river, while supporting up to 595 lbs. Our kayak will remain balanced even in choppy waters or swift currents thanks to its 34-inch beam, and it offers superb stability for fishing in all sorts of conditions.
- BUILT-IN FISHING ROD HOLDERS: 4 flush-mount rod holders and 3 articulating rod holders allow you to keep multiple baited lines in the water at once, or just keep the rods out of your way during paddling. Whatever your preference, convenience is always an option.
- WATER RESISTANT STORAGE: Keep all your valuables dry inside the BKC TK181 dual watertight storage hatches. With one for each seat, your gear is always in reach. The rear cargo space with bungee cord will hold all of your fishing stuff and outdoor gear.
The Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 weighs only 68 pounds, not bad for a tandem kayak.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Polypropylene body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 12’ 5” long x 30” wide
- Weighs 68 pounds
- 450-pound weight capacity
- 3 removable swivel mounts and 4 built-in flush mount rod holders
The Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 is a tandem kayak that’s purpose-built for fishing. It features a whopping seven pole holders, including 3 removable swivel mounts and 4 flush mounts. You and your friend can fish from virtually any position, and the long, narrow design will discourage the kayak from pivoting quickly while you’re fighting a fish, which reduces the odds of your line getting tangled with your buddy’s.
This kayak has a true sit on top design, so it’s easy to get on and off of. The downside of this design is that the top of the boat rests very low to the water. The scuppers take on water even in light chop, so your legs will get wet in a hurry in all but the calmest conditions. That said, the Brooklyn Kayak is still an outstanding fishing kayak.
Pros
- Versatile fishing options
- Large storage capacity
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- Poor splash protection
This tandem kayak is an ideal choice for fishing with your friends.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B000J2Q0C6″ locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]7. Advanced Elements AE1012-R AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Advanced Elements AE1012-R AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improve tracking
- 3 layers of material for extreme puncture resistance
- PreAssembled at the factory. Simply unfold, inflate and attach the seat
- High support, adjustable padded seat provides comfort for hours of paddling
- Looks and paddles similar to a rigid hard-shell kayak with the portability of an inflatable
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is a hybrid kayak, with an inflatable body and aluminum bow and stern frames for reinforcement.
Key Features
- 1 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit inside design
- Measures 10’5” long x 32” wide
- Weighs 36 pounds
- 300-pound weight capacity
- Includes a carrying case and a repair kit
- Aluminum bow and stern frames for rigidity
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is a unique kayak that combines the light weight of an inflatable kayak with the ruggedness and rigidity of a solid frame. It achieves this with aluminum bow and stern frames, which not only provide rigidity but also offer a sharper profile than you’ll see on other inflatable kayaks. This allows for plenty of speed, even though the AdvancedFrame only weighs 36 pounds.
This kayak has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, more than enough to carry a reasonable supply of gear. It’s also marine-rated, although you’ll want to be careful about taking it out in rough ocean conditions. That said, it’s also rated for whitewater rapids, so you can take it down even the roughest of rivers without any concerns.
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Faster than most inflatables
- Marine rated
Cons
- No paddles or air pump
- Pricey
If you want a kayak that’s both durable and lightweight, it’s hard to do better than the AdvancedFrame.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00P9JZ7G4″ locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]8. Pro Angler 17T – Ivory Dune[/easyazon_link]
Features
| Brand | Hobie |
| EAN | 0792176543138 |
| EAN List | EAN List Element: 0792176543138 |
| Item Dimensions | Height: 2200; Length: 20400; Weight: 23000; Width: 4300 |
| Label | Hobie Cat |
| Manufacturer | Hobie Cat |
| MPN | 87290000 |
| Package Dimensions | Height: 2200; Length: 20900; Weight: 23000; Width: 4500 |
| Package Quantity | 1 |
| Part Number | 87290000 |
| Product Group | Sports |
| Product Type Name | OUTDOOR_RECREATION_PRODUCT |
| Publisher | Hobie Cat |
| Studio | Hobie Cat |
| Title | Pro Angler 17T - Ivory Dune |
| UPC | 792176543138 |
| UPC List | UPC List Element: 792176543138 |
The Hobie Pro Angler 17T is a luxury tandem kayak that’s as comfortable as it is beautiful.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Fiberglass body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 12’ 8” long x 43” wide
- Weighs 230 pounds
- 425-pound weight capacity
- Pedal-driven design
- 2 built-in swivel mount rod holders
The Hobie Pro Angler 17T is a luxury kayak that’s designed to be beautiful, comfortable, and easy to operate. It features a slick, polished fiberglass hull, with shiny bow to stern rails for tying down gear – or for steadying yourself as you get in and out.
The seats are adjustable up to down and front to back, and can be tilted for comfort. They include lumbar supports to keep you strong while you’re fishing, or just to keep you relaxed while you’re pedaling along.
Oh, yeah. The Angler 17T is a pedaling kayak. Whether you want to take a relaxing cruise, or enjoy some hands-free fishing with the swivel mount rod holders, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy a day on the water in style and comfort. Provided you’re willing to pay the price.
Pros
- Hands-free operation
- Very stable construction
- Ergonomic design
- Bow to stern rail mounts
Cons
- Heavy
- Low weight capacity
- Very expensive
If you want the most beautiful kayak available and money is no object, this kayak can’t be beaten.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B004EEM87G” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]9. Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak
Features
- Blow molded from High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durability; Backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
- Designed to seat up to 3 people; 500 lb. weight capacity
- Hull design provides ultra stability and great trackingDurable High-Density UV-Protected Polyethylene HDPE Construction Resists Fading, Cracking, and Peeling
- Multiple footrest positions for different size riders
- Includes: 2 double-sided paddles, paddle clips, 2 padded backrests, 3 fishing pole holders, and a 6’ storage hatch
The Lifetime 10-Foot Fishing Kayak is one of the shortest tandem kayaks on the market.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity (3 with child seat)
- Polyethylene body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 10’ long x 36” wide
- Weighs 60 pounds
- 500-pound weight capacity
- 4 built-in flush mount fishing rod holders
The Lifetime 10-Foot Fishing Kayak is a short, 10-foot polyethylene tandem kayak. It’s designed specifically for couples with children, with a built-in elevated booster seat between the two main seats. With 500 pounds of capacity, it has the ability to carry your whole family over the water with ease.
Alternatively, you can use the booster seat as a tie-down point for storage on your solo or tandem fishing trip. The hull includes four built-in flush mount rod holders, so you can fish from any position, and keep your rods secure while you work your paddles.
The only downside of the Lifetime is the storage compartment. It opens inside your hull, so your gear can roll around and get trapped up near the bow, inaccessible until you return to shore. On the other hand, it’s very reasonably priced, a great deal for growing framilies.
Pros
- Lightweight for a tandem kayak
- Large weight capacity
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Sub-par on-board storage design
This short kayak is a good choice for couples with small children.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B004XFVPKC” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]10. BIC Trinidad Fishing Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Features
- Room for 2 adults and 1 small child
- Stable platform for fishing in a wide variety of conditions
- Integrated storage compartments and rear storage deck/straps to carry all your fishing gear
- THD--Tri hull Design for optimum speed, comfort, and stability
- TST--Twin Sheet Technology for a lighter, more durable, easier-to-paddle kayak
The BIC Trinidad is designed specifically for families.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity (3 with child seat)
- Polyethylene body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 11’ 9” long x 33” wide
- Weighs 65 pounds
- 440-pound weight capacity
- 2 built-in flush mount fishing rod holders
The BIC Trinidad is designed similarly to the Lifetime 10-Foot we just looked at. Its polyethylene hull is shaped as a tandem, but there’s a rear-facing child seat between the front and rear seats.
The length is more than sufficient for the task, but the 440-pound weight capacity becomes a limitation when you’re packing three people on board, even if one of them is a child. This means you won’t be able to carry much gear.
On the other hand, the 65-pound weight makes the Trinidad a good choice for day trips. You and your partner will easily be able to take it off the top of your vehicle and drop it into the water. The hull is also very stable, which makes it a good choice for kayaking in choppy water.
Pros
- Wide, stable design
- Lightweight
- Fast
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
This family kayak doubles as a fast, lightweight tandem kayak.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00A7EXF4C” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]11. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
$137.00 in stock
2 used from $143.92
Features
- Comfortable For Anyone: Kayak Includes An Adjustable Inflatable Seat With Backrest; Cockpit Designed For Comfort And Space
- Dimensions: Inflated Size 10 Feet 3 X 3 Feet X 1 Feet 8 Inch; Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 Pounds
- Directional Stability: Removable Skeg For Directional Stability
- Increased Visibility: In Case Of Emergency, Bright Yellow Color Helps Visibility
- Made For Smaller Bodies Of Water: Explorer K2 Is Made For Smaller Bodies Of Water Including Lakes And Mild Rivers
The Intex Explorer K2’s inflatable center beam gives it excellent straight-line stability.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 10’ 3” long x 36” wide
- Weighs 31 pounds
- 400-pound weight capacity
- Includes a pair of aluminum paddles, hand pump, and carrying case
The Intex Explorer K2 is an inexpensive kayak that’s designed to last for a handful of kayaking trips. To use an apt cliché, it’s a good way to get your feet wet.
While you’re using it, this kayak is comfortable and safe. The high-visibility yellow hull is easy for your friends to spot at a distance, and if worse comes to worst the inflatable seats can be detached and used as flotation devices.
That said, you’re ultimately going to want an upgrade. In the mean time, the Explorer K2 will keep you floating and paddling along.
Pros
- Stable design
- Fast straight-line speed
- High-visibility paint job
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
- Can only handle very calm water
The inflatable seats on this kayak can be un-buckled to serve as flotation devices.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B072JHDN9M” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]12. Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak
$549.99 in stock
Features
- INFLATES QUICKLY: The Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Kayak inflates to a full size kayak (11' x 35” x 16”) in less than 5 minutes with the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump. Go from garage, to trunk, to water in no time!
- COMPACT & MANEUVERABLE: When deflated for transport this inflatable tandem kayak measures only 26”(L) x 16”(W) x 8”(H) and fits nicely into the included carry bag. It’s lightweight design makes it easy to handle by one person, weighing in at only 27 lbs.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures, Double Threaded Boston valves are guaranteed not to leak, and tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover is rip and tear resistant.
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Rocker profile and pointed nose entry (bow) delivers excellent performance in both calm and choppy waters, Removable deep fin provides responsive tracking, rear drain plug for easy draining/cleaning and High Quality EVA padded seats offer High-back support for hours of comfortable cruising for both children and adults.
- EVERYTHING INCLUDED! – Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Tandem Kayak, (2) Adjustable EVA padded seats, (2) Aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, Deluxe double action hand pump, Rear tracking fin, and Travel bag.
The Driftsun Voyager offers plenty of storage capacity, with nylon webbing at both the bow and the stern.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 10’ long x 35” wide
- Weighs 27 pounds
- 450-pound weight capacity
- Includes a pair of collapsible aluminum paddles, hand pump, and a carrying case
The Driftsun Voyager is unusually tough for an inflatable kayak. It features a tarpaulin hull liner that makes it nearly impervious to punctures from rocks and other everyday kayaking hazards. It also offers a minimal degree of splash protection, although at the end of the day you’re mostly relying on the tall outer hull to keep you dry.
The Voyager weighs only 25 pounds, impressively little for a tandem kayak. At 10 feet in length, it’s also relatively short for a tandem, so it maneuvers better at slow speeds than it does at higher speeds.
Pros
- Tough outer hull
- Large storage capacity
- Lightweight and maneuverable
Cons
- Awkward paddling
This inflatable kayak is exceptionally durable, with a tarpaulin liner on the outside of the hull.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00J0S0JGS” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]13. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
$375.88 in stock
Features
- 18-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado’s swiveling fishing rod holders are very durable, a great choice for landing big lunkers.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 10’ 9” long x 39” wide
- Weighs 40 pounds
- 470-pound weight capacity
- Built-in swivel fishing rod holders and trolling motor mount
- 2 adjustable swivel-mount rod holders
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is a tandem kayak that’s also designed to function as a trolling boat. Not only does it have a pair of rugged swivel-mount fishing rod holders, but it also has a trolling motor mount on the rear. This makes it a great choice for trolling a line behind the kayak, waiting for a prize fish to bite.
The hull itself is also durable. Whether you’re looking for a motorized boat or not, you’ll appreciate the tarpaulin-lined bottom, and the 470-pound weight capacity isn’t too shabby either, although it’s on the light side if you’re actually mounting a small outboard motor.
Pros
- Ideal for fishing
- Built-in trolling motor mount
- Tough outer hull
- Affordable
Cons
- No paddles or pump
- Heavy
This kayak features a built-in trolling motor mount, making it a perfect choice for a lazy day of fishing.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B000FE7INI” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]14. Airhead Montana Kayak Two Person Inflatable Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Airhead Montana Kayak Two Person Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Airhead Montana Travel kayaks are Inflatable kayaks that are perfect for camping, vacationing, exploring remote areas, and cruising yachts
- Designed for lakes and moderate white water, this two person inflatable kayak is lightweight, compact, and portable
- All 3 air chambers are completely enclosed by rugged 840-denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coatings
- Made with Neoprene elbow guards for comfort when paddling and a stretch net in the bow and 6 D-rings at bow and stern for securing gear
- Bright orange inflatable kayak for safety and visibility on the water
The Airhead Montana can convert from solid-bottom to self-bailing with quick removal of the screw-in drain plug.
Key Features
- 2 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 12’ 4” long x 36” wide
- Weighs 36 pounds
- 500-pound weight capacity
The Airhead Montana is one of the more durable inflatable kayaks around. It’s rated to tackle class III rapids, and it’s also marine rated for paddling in bays and inlets. It’s over 12 feet long, and its 36-inch width makes it stable enough to stay dry even in very choppy conditions.
This tandem kayak offers a large weight capacity of 500 pounds, more than enough for almost any pair of paddlers. Not only that, it has a convertible design. Leave the drain plug in on calm days for the driest possible experience. In choppy weather, unscrew the plug, and you’ll have a self-bailing kayak that doesn’t wash out on you.
Pros
- Comfortable elbow pads
- Secure, screw-in drain plug
- Large weight capacity
- High-visibility color
- Marine rated
Cons
- No paddles or pump
This kayak’s 500-pound capacity is more than enough for a pair of kayakers and their supplies.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00GLL7MSK” locale=”US” tag=”lifestylereviews-20″]15. Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak[/easyazon_link]
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
$295.20 in stock
Features
- Heavy-duty PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Boston Valve is double threaded for easy inflation/deflation
- Adjustable seats move to fit you; Carry handles make it easy to carry in and out of the water
The Sevylor Big Basin’s high, splash-resistant sides are a real blessing to the person sitting in the third seat.
Key Features
- 3 person capacity
- Inflatable body
- Sit on top design
- Measures 12’ 3” long x 37” wide
- Weighs 35 pounds
- 490-pound weight capacity
- Adjustable seats
The Sevylor Big Basin makes our list because it’s one of the driest, most comfortable three person kayaks on the market. There aren’t many three person kayaks on the market to begin with, never mind lightweight options like the Big Basin.
This kayak features a heavy tarpaulin bottom that’s virtually impossible to puncture. And the tall hull and low seats allow for more splash protection than you’ll see from any sit on top kayak. That’s especially important on a three person kayak, where the person in the rear is liable to get splashed by both the front and middle paddler.
Pros
- Tough outer hull
- Good splash protection
- Lightweight for its size
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
- No paddles or pump
If you’re looking for a three-person kayak, this is a well-designed, lightweight option.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking for lightweight recreational kayaks because they’re portable, or whether you’re looking for the best kayak for the money, there are plenty of good kayaks on our list.
The most important thing to keep in mind when you’re choosing a kayak is durability and the shape of the design. Do you need a thick, rugged hull that’s also well-balanced enough to handle whitewater rapids? Or do you want a wider, lazier kayak that’s easy to turn on a dime while circling your favorite fishing spot?
Another important consideration is cargo capacity. Many lightweight kayaks advertise their “large cargo capacity”, while offering a low overall weight capacity. Unless you’re trying to paddle around with a giant collection of pillows, focus on weight.
We hope you’ve learned something from reading our recreational kayak reviews. We think at least one of these kayaks will be a perfect fit for your needs.
The Review
Best Recreational Kayak
Choosing which kayak to buy can be a difficult decision. Read through our review of the best recreational kayak on the market today and use it as a guide the next time you are out to make a purchase.
Review Breakdown
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Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 Kayak
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Sun Dolphin Aruba SS Sit-in Kayak
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Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Predator PDL Fishing Kayak
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Darget 93"x39" Inflatable PackRaft Kayak
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Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 Person Inflatable Kayak
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BKC UH-TK181 Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak
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Advanced Elements AE1012-R AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
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Pro Angler 17T - Ivory Dune
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Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak
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BIC Trinidad Fishing Kayak
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Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
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Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak
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Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
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Airhead Montana Kayak Two Person Inflatable Kayak
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Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
Best Recreational Kayak DEALS
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