Best Kayaks: Complete Reviews With Comparisons
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Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore local bodies of water in the spring and summer.
With reliable equipment, you can enjoy the scenic views of canals and lakes while getting a good amount of physical exercise.
The excitement it brings makes it one of the most preferred recreational activities for many.
As such, it's important to get the best kayak for you to make the most out of the experience.
Comparison Chart
Kayak Reviews
1. Intex Excursion Pro K1 Kayak
The Intex Recreation Corp. is a prolific manufacturer with more than 50 years of business experience, from airbeds to boats.
It aims to provide items of superb quality without the high price tag, all of which are intended for comfort, security, and enjoyment.
The company has also made efforts to decrease carbon impact by minimizing the number of fossil fuels consumed.
One of Intex's popular releases is the Excursion Pro K1 Kayak, a one-person capacity vessel.
Product Highlights
The Intex Excursion Pro K1 Kayak promises a set of qualities that any water sports enthusiast could appreciate.
Some of the most notable ones are as follows:
- Durable Design
This Intex kayak exhibits a laminate material, a solid component further embellished by polyester core.
With these qualities, you can expect outstanding abrasion and impact resistance, yet it is still lightweight and portable.
PVC with a high molecular weight has been used in the building of the three-ply ultra-robust structure.
As such, high resistance to damage caused by collision and exposure to the sun is guaranteed.
- Stability
Easy inflation and rapid deflation are made possible by high-pressure spring-loaded valves.
The high-pressure inflation significantly increases the kayak's stability in rough waters, as well as rigidity.
- Improved Movement
The Excursion Pro K1 Kayak has two detachable skegs, which increases maneuverability in deep and shallow waters.
In case you're not familiar, a skeg aids you in steering straight and more efficiently as the stern of your vessel is securely anchored.
- Useful Accessories
If catching fish is part of your recreation, in addition to kayaking, the Excursion Pro K1 features two detectable fishing rod holders.
Recording your adventures is a breeze because the kayak has gadget mounts for GroPro and mobile phones.
Thanks to this mount, you'll be able to enjoy your moments in the water without purchasing a separate accessory to hold your devices in place.
To further enhance your relaxation, this kayak has a floor-mounted footrest.
You're sure to have long periods without much strain on your body.
Excursion Pro K1 also comes with a carry bag, high-output air pump, inflatable seat boost, and adjustable seat.
The Good
Storage is emphasized with this kayak as it is designed with adequate space in the bow and stern with stainless steel D rings.
These rings are conducive to tying down your dry bags and gear.
So, if you always have multiple tools and accessories for your kayaking, these additional storage spaces will be significantly helpful.
The Bad
Users who have wider bodies will not get the best comfort possible as the kayak's inside might be a tad slim.
As such, if you estimate that you're not of average build, contact the company's customer service to check if your body measurements will complement the kayak.
PROS
CONS
2. Pelican Sonic 80X Recreational Sit-on-Top Kayak
Since it offers a wide selection of kayaks at affordable rates, the Pelican Sport brand is a famous label in the kayaking world.
From long-distance kayaks to tandem kayaks, variety is not an issue with the brand.
The Sonic 80X Recreational Sit-on-Top is one of their signature products, which is marketed to children.
Product Highlights
Despite its modest design, this kayak from Pelican has more than enough features to be considered for your next water adventure.
Here are some of the things you'll expect from it:
- Convenience
With its open cockpit design, you'll have no issues getting on the Pelican Sonic 80X Recreational Sit-on-Top.
It also features a molded carrying handle, which makes it easier to carry the kayak around.
In addition to the handle, the 37-pound total weight improves portability as it won't strain you too much while in transport.
As such, whether you are of average size and weight or less, you'll be able to bring the Sonic 80X wherever you go.
- Easy to Use
This kayak from Pelican exhibits a twin-tunnel construction, which is responsible for its hassle-free maneuverability.
If you're a beginner or amateur enthusiast, controlling and stabilizing the Sonic 80X will not be an issue.
Mastering how to use this kayak should be a breeze.
- Miscellaneous Add-Ons
The Sonix 80X is built with molded footrests and an Ergofoam padded backrest to improve comfort and posture.
These components will be helpful if you're in the water for hours.
They will diminish body pains due to incorrect posture and lack of support.
A bottle mount is also placed in front of the seat, which is beneficial for hydration if you'll spend hours on the water.
Also, there's a drain plug that helps avoid water infiltration.
The Good
The self-bailing quality of the Sonic 80x Recreational Sit-on-Top is durable enough to last on the lake or other bodies of water.
Compared to other kayaks, it is an excellent choice if you're spending more than a day outdoors because of its low-maintenance qualities.
The Bad
You have to shop for other equipment if you choose Sonic 80x because it does not include paddles, bags, and other accessories.
Compared to other kayak packages, this one from Pelican is a bit underwhelming.
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CONS
3. Oru Kayak Inlet Foldable Kayak
Oru Kayak is an established manufacturer of portable boats, from small kayaks to various accessories.
The company takes pride in the design and portability of its vessels, which have earned praise from users and onlookers.
One of their signature releases is the Oru Kayak Inlet, an "origami" boat made for everyone.
Product Highlights
When it comes to qualities, there are considerable aspects that the Inlet is ahead of the competition.
Let's check out this Oru Kayak and see if its premium price is worth every penny.
- Superior Portability
Being the company's premier offering for small kayaks, the Inlet only weighs around 20 pounds.
This weight not only makes it easy to carry but also simple to store, as you can place the Inlet practically anywhere.
You can put up to two Inlets in an average car trunk, which is not a possibility for other standard kayaks on the market.
- Prime Durability
Given the lightweight build, Oru attests to the impressive durability of the Inlet.
The kayak is extraordinarily tough since it's made from five-millimeter custom-extruded and double-layered polypropylene.
In addition to the material itself, it received a 10-year UV treatment that further enhances its sturdiness.
As such, the Oru Kayak Inlet has high levels of abrasion resistance and can sustain regular wear and tear for a long time.
The bulkhead on the bow and stern is there to reinforce the boat's rigidity.
Whether you slide over rocks, continuously bumping into obstacles, rapid water acceleration, or folding up countless times, will cause minimal integrity issues.
- Easy Operation
This kayak is known to deliver stability and commendable maneuverability, regardless if you're a novice user or an experienced paddler.
With this feature, the kayak is an excellent choice for first-timers or those who don't have much of an idea of how to operate a kayak.
- Comfortable Kayaking
The Oru Kayak is built with adjustable footrests and a customizable backrest with straps to ensure that you'll be at ease while traversing the water.
Despite the compact construction, it is adequately equipped with sufficient support that you'll undoubtedly appreciate.
The Good
In addition to the user-friendly weight, the assembly and disassembly time of the Oru Kayak Inlet is almost unbeatable.
Within five minutes, the kayak is ready to use.
As you constantly do assembly and disassembly, you may do it faster.
The Bad
Lightweight kayaks are sensitive to wind, and the Oru Kayak Inlet is no exception.
That's the reason the company recommends it for calm, clear waters.
Sea kayaking is labeled "dangerous" by some, so this product is not the best option in terms of versatility.
PROS
CONS
4. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
Lifetime has a wide array of products offered, from tables to basketball equipment.
The company started in 1986 at Riverdale, Utah, through the efforts of a father inspired to make a good basketball hoop.
Nowadays, Lifetime Products has more than 1,500 employees worldwide.
Among its releases is the Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak, which is a sit-on-top fishing kayak.
Product Highlights
This kayak from Lifetime Products has some notable features that make itself a viable option for beginner and veteran water sport enthusiasts.
Let's discuss them in more detail to see if it's the best option for you.
- Enhanced Stability
The Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak has a flat bottom with deep tracking hull channels and chine rails.
These design choices allow the kayak to deliver optimal stability and safety.
- Easy Transport
While it is not the lightest kayak on the market, the 52-pound weight of the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 doesn't require much strength.
It also exhibits handles on the front and rear, which makes it easier to carry, much more if you have a companion to help you.
- Durable Hull
This fishing kayak from Lifetime Products promises extreme durability as it is built of blow-molded HDPE (high-density polyethylene).
With this material, the kayak is UV-protected, durable, and has impressive resistance to impact damages.
- Extra Components
Fishing rod holders come with the design, which is beneficial if you want to mix kayaking and fishing.
Shock cord straps are there to make Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak easier to store and transport.
The two six-inch storage hatches allow you to bring more tools and equipment to your kayaking.
The Good
When it comes to overall stability, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is superior to other one-person capacity kayaks.
Its design and weight make it possible for you to have a balanced ride, even in choppy water.
The Bad
The drain holes of this kayak are placed directly under the seat, which is not the preferred location.
You may struggle to be dry during kayaking because there's a big chance that the water will eventually find its way to the seat itself.
PROS
CONS
5. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
Sporty and colorful, the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak bears a dynamic appearance that makes it easy to spot.
This single-person kayak from the Sports Series is excellent for exploring lakes and moderate rivers.
Product Highlights
The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is not just about looks, as it is also packed with features to enhance your kayaking.
Some of the most notable ones are:
- Effortless Paddling
This kayak is made with a streamlined design to make it convenient to traverse lakes and mild rivers.
This quality is a great help if you're a beginner because one of the most common difficulties of first-timers is paddling correctly.
- Comfortable Seating
The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak bears a cockpit design that promotes enhanced posture.
While it is optimal for one person only, you still have ample space to store your tools.
- Exceptional Control
A low-profile deck, an inflatable I-beam base, and buoyancy-enhancing side chambers provide stability, comfort, and functionality.
With the addition of an inflatable seat with a backrest and an adjustable skeg, the boat may go in any direction you prefer.
- Additional Storage
If your floor doesn't have sufficient space to store other equipment, you can take advantage of the cargo net, provided you have a waterproof bag.
The Good
The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak has US Coast Guard ID NMMA and TUV certifications.
In other words, it has passed the highest standards regarding boat safety that the industry has set.
With this aspect, you'll be more at ease to use the kayak because of its credentials.
The Bad
If you feel like moving your feet from time to time, the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak may not be the best option.
Your feet will be slightly restricted as the design of the kayak may cover your calves and feet.
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CONS
Buyer's Guide
There are multiple types of kayaks out there in the market, which makes it challenging to choose one if you're still not yet well-informed about the subject.
It's easier to filter down your search when you better grasp the types of kayaks offered and their applications.
As such, when looking for the top kayak, you need to keep in mind a couple of elements.
Style
Kayaks are divided into two primary categories, sit-on-top and sit-in.
There's no definite answer as to which of these types is the better choice.
To help you choose between sit-on-top and sit-in, let's determine their most significant advantages and disadvantages.
Sit-on-Top Advantages
- Less susceptible for the kayak to accumulate water inside
- Easier to get in and out
- Launching and landing the kayak is simpler
- More user-friendly
- Allows water to drain easier via scupper holes
Sit-on-Top Disadvantages
- More exposure to elements
- Slower than sit-inside
- Secondary stability is lesser
Sit-In Advantages
- Higher chance of being dry
- Better stability and maneuverability
- Less effort in paddling
- Could be lighter than a sit-on-top kayak
Sit-In Disadvantages
- Not recommended for beginners
- Harder entry and exit
- Will collect water if the kayak flips over
- Limited item storage
Given these attributes, you'll get an idea of which is the best fit for your kayaking between the sit-in and sit-on-top.
Environment
Each kayak is built to function optimally in a certain environment.
At its core, water environments are identified into three groups.
It's critically important to be aware of which type of water you'll traverse with your kayak as it's not only for convenience but for safety as well.
You can either choose an environment-specific kayak for a lower price or get an expensive vessel that works in multiple bodies of water.
Ponds and Lakes
If you're a first-timer or a casual enthusiast, you should choose a kayak that fits a calm and quiet current.
Ponds and lakes are popular spots for kayaking due to their friendly atmosphere.
Riding through these bodies of water is safe and relaxing, and fishing is a common side activity.
Rivers
Some rivers are calmer than others, but the volatility of their state is not optimal for beginners.
Fighting through the rapids to successfully traverse the stream is probably the most popular image of kayaking.
Hence, many prefer to battle the intense whitewater rapids to fill their need for an adrenaline rush.
Beaches
With a strong wind on coastlines, kayaking in this body of water is also not recommended for novices.
Like rivers, tidal changes can happen in a heartbeat, which could spell trouble for you and the kayak, especially if you're not careful.
Dimensions
Size is one of the most crucial variables to consider when choosing a kayak.
To help you choose based on dimensions, here are three common types of kayaks and their average measurements:
Kayaks in the recreational category measure around 12 feet in length with about 24 inches or more in width.
Kids and adults who have minimal experience in kayaking usually go for recreational kayaks.
- Crossover Kayaks
As the name suggests, crossover or hybrid kayaks combine features of other kayaks into one.
This type usually ranges more or less 12 to 16 feet in length and 22 up to 25 inches in width.
It's made for those who want a versatile kayak that can handle leisure and sports.
- Touring Kayaks
This type exceeds 16 feet in length but less than 22 inches in width.
Pro kayakers prefer touring kayaks because it is built for advanced excursions or unfriendly weather.
Frequently-Asked Questions
1. What Length of Kayak Do I Need?
In usual circumstances, people who have a height of less than six feet will have no issues fitting in a recreational kayak cockpit.
However, if you're taller, test a crossover or fishing kayak that averages 12 to 16 feet.
Check if your legs, hips, and back are appropriately supported before you pick the size.
2. How Much Does a Good Kayak Cost?
Factors such as brand, material, weight, extra items, length, load capacity, and storage space affect the price of a kayak.
On average, if you're into recreational kayaks, a good model costs around $300 up to $1000.
Fishing kayak's cost ranges from $50 to $1000 for a high-quality one.
Prepare to spend north of $1000 if you want a touring kayak packed with features.
3. How Dangerous Is Kayaking?
Whenever you are in a body of water, natural or human-made, there's always an element of danger.
Lakes, rivers, and seas are teeming with harmful elements that could cause you minor skin irritation or fatal injuries.
That is why proper safety measures are strictly recommended, regardless of the calmness of the water.
Always try to wear safety gear and be aware of your surroundings whenever you go kayaking.
4. Are Kayaks One Size Fits All?
Due to the different designs of kayaks, it is challenging to support that one size of kayak is made to fit all sizes.
As mentioned earlier, people taller than six feet may need to consult or test the kayak first.
Speed, stability, and mobility are negatively affected if your size does not complement the measurement of the kayak.
5. What Kayak Should a Beginner Buy?
A recreational sit-on-top kayak is an optimal choice for beginners.
Maneuverability and hassle-free entry and exit will be significantly helpful in getting the hang of kayaking.
What Is the Kayak To Buy?
We picked the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak as the kayak to buy.
Durability and extras are comparable with other kayaks we reviewed.
However, while its weight is not as impressive as the others, its degree of stability more than makes up for it.
In kayaking, stability is arguably the most crucial aspect that contributes to safety and other elements.