12 Best Inflatable Kayaks (Review) In 2021

The Intex Explorer K2 is a two-person inflatable kayak. It has a design that prioritizes comfort and security without compromising on control and maneuverability. The Explorer features a heavy-duty, puncture-resistant vinyl material. The kayak also includes an inflatable I-beam floor that improves stability on the water. With three separate air chambers, one minor puncture isn’t going to sink you. It holds two people, provides optimal control, and is very comfortable.

Another notable feature of this kayak is the adjustable seat. The seats can accommodate anyone, although people with long legs might find this boat a little cramped. 

The Intex Challenger Kayak Series is the right choice for Intex fans who would prefer to kayak solo. Unlike the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, this kayak accommodates just one person. This kayak is incredibly agile on water. Durability is another unique selling point for this boat. Besides the regular puncture-resistant vinyl, Intex also incorporated a sturdy, welded aluminum material into its build.

This kayak comes with two air chambers and the inflatable I-beam floor to provide optimal water stability. Its 220-pound weight capacity is smaller than the Explorer K2, but it makes up for this reduction with a more compact build. It weighs 23.9 pounds, so it’s a little easier to carry around as well.

The Intex Excursion Pro takes us back to two-person kayaks. Instead of using the usual vinyl, Intex opts for a laminate PVC material with a polyester core for the Excursion Pro. This change results in a heavier boat, with the kayak clocking 39.01 pounds. However, it’s much more durable than the other two and has a load-bearing capacity of 400 pounds.

Other exciting features make the Excursion an attractive option. For instance, it comes with two removable skews that improve paddling, depending on the water’s depth. For anglers, the Excursion Pro comes with adjustable mounting brackets that can accommodate the likes of fishing rod holders and GPS systems.

Next on our list of the best inflatable kayaks is the Coleman Colorado Kayak from Sevylor – a product that looks like gear out of a Navy training camp. Buoyancy is Coleman’s primary selling point. Sevylor threw in several features to keep you afloat, including a rugged, 18-gauge PVC material, a 1000D tarpaulin bottom, and an 840D nylon cover. 

This two-person kayak comes with an Airtight System designed to prevent leaks. In cases where you run into underwater rocks, the raft includes multiple air chambers to keep you afloat long enough till help arrives.

Sevylor makes a second entry on our list with the Quikpak Kayak. This single-person kayak effortlessly glides over the water. The entire boat fits into an easy-to-carry backpack, making it easy to store and transport. Using a double-lock valve system, you can set it up in less than five minutes. Sevylor has put some thought into the paddler’s comfort. The Quikpak comes with a backrest on the seat and a multi-position footrest.

This raft also features a 21-gauge PVC material, a tarpaulin bottom, and multiple air chambers to protect you from punctures. The Quikpak is only suitable for still and calm lakes.

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There’s a lot to unpack about the CO-Z Inflatable Kayak. You can use it as a fishing kayak, a raft, or even a lifeboat. Unlike most products on our list, this kayak features a full, square-like frame that conveniently sits two fishermen side-by-side. Kayakers will find the aluminum floorboard and seat convenient for increased stability and comfort.

You can mount a motor on the reinforced transom board. The board accommodates motors with a maximum power output of three horsepower. Once it’s motorized, the CO-Z can achieve speeds up to 37 miles-per-hour with ease. Water-resistance is another area where this touring kayak shines thanks to its sturdy 1000 Denier PVC fabric. The floorboard of the kayak is aluminum. While this material improves comfort and stability, it also gets hot on sunny days. 

The Ultralite Inflatable Kayak from ADVANCED ELEMENTS is a simple and elegant boat. This one-person kayak weighs just 17 pounds, which is a lot lighter than any kayak we’ve reviewed in our guide so far. The compact structure also means you won’t need a roof rack to transport the kayak. This kayak can easily fit into your trunk. Despite its light frame, the Ultralite Inflatable Kayak still manages to have some durability. ADVANCED ELEMENTS incorporated three layers of material to ensure optimal puncture-resistance. Aluminum ribs help define the bow and stern for optimal movement on the water.

Fair warning, the compact design makes for minimal storage space onboard, and relatively little leg-room.

If you are up for something a bit more challenging, make sure to check out our reviews of the top kneeboards.

The McKenzie 105 focuses on preventing water entry, and minimizing damage when it happens. This inflatable kayak comes with a Duratex material that prevents water from getting in. Aquaglide also threw in EvoBeam technology and four mesh layers to help improve water evacuation. The Aquaglide McKenzie 105 Inflatable Kayak holds as much as 300 pounds in weight. The velcro seat is quite comfortable. It features a rest mechanism to relieve back pain should it occur.

Another delightful break from the norm is the Halkey-Roberts type valve, which Aquaglide has claimed will be super-easy to inflate and deflate when the time comes. This boat is attractive, custom-made for water sports, and suitable for rapid waters and touring.

You’ll have to purchase the paddles and pump separately, which may be a deal-breaker for some. For a one-person unit, it also seems a bit pricey.

The NoxwB Inflatable Kayak is every kayaker’s dream. If you need an inflatable boat to move across lakes, bays, or moving rivers, this kayak should do the trick. This two-person kayak boasts enough space for a third. The total weight capacity is 440 pounds. The kayak’s design is functional, and NoxwB seems to have prioritized safety and convenience with this build. 

Thanks to a two-way valve, you can control the flow of air. The valve also includes an air security flap that prevents air leakage as soon as you detach the pump. With this system, you can inflate the kayak and set it up in a couple of minutes.

Our penultimate product is the DAmeng 8ft Inflatable Touring Kayak, a fun raft that takes care of your most basic kayaking needs. What makes this kayak unique is its operating mechanism. This unit comes with rowing, sailing, and motor-mount compatibility similar to the CO-Z mentioned above. The Touring Kayak also has three independent tubes, each made of 1100D PVC fabric for optimal safety. Thermal bonding seams ensure superior air retention, and a foldable design makes for secure storage.

Besides that, the Touring is pretty standard and made from a three-layer PVC material, resistant to sun damage and corrosion.

The inflatable raft holds three adults comfortably and has a load-bearing capacity of 700 pounds. The package includes two rowing paddles, an air pump, one boat rope, a repair pack, and a waterproof bag for storage.

If only the kayak came with an easy-to-carry bag.

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Last on our list of the best inflatable kayaks is the Ordes 3-Person Kayak, a high-quality, sturdy kayak that is easy to set up and use. This kayak is available in Standard and Deluxe options. The Standard Edition comes with a PVC paddle, while the Deluxe boasts aluminum alloy paddles. Besides these two factors and a few fishing accessories, both options are similar.

This rubber boat comes with a super tough PVC and polymer material that’s thickened and resistant to both wear and water. Ordes threw in some welded materials for improved durability and agile operation. Five Boston valves speed up inflation and deflation, and three air chambers protect you from punctures.

Despite being marketed as a three-person kayak, we feel the load-bearing capacity of 507 pounds could be higher. According to the manufacturer, this raft can only accommodate two adults and a child.