Are you planning to buy an inflatable kayak for your next kayaking trip?
But at the same time, you’re a little confused about where you should invest.
No need to worry, because we have got you covered!
All you need to do is scroll through the article and learn all about how you can choose the right inflatable kayak which suits you best. The blog will cover some important aspects including the types of inflatable kayaks, their advantages, drawbacks, the factors to be considered, and in case that doesn’t clear your doubts, the blog is followed by a list of FAQs to be your savior, so just scroll through and become an inflatable kayak knowledge pro.
On This Page
Types of Inflatable Kayaks
Even in the case of inflatable kayaks, there are different types of inflatable kayaks, and you would require a basic understanding of those to decide which kayak suits you the best. Here are the 4 basic types of inflatable kayaks mentioned below,
Self-bailing inflatable kayaks
A self-bailing inflatable kayak is a kayak that has holes in the bottom and is mostly used for white water situations. In case you are planning to go kayaking in water bodies where a lot of water gets spilled inside the kayak, these holes are what would help your kayak stay steady by channeling the water out and keeping your kayak drained and stable.
Sit-on-top inflatable kayaks
A sit-on-top kayak is a kayak with an open design. This inflatable kayak is usually opted by individuals who face some problem in getting in and out of an enclosed shell or someone who feels claustrophobic in a sit-inside kayak. Though in this kayak water splashes more easily, so it is advised to have a spray deck in your sit-on-top inflatable kayak.
Traditional inflatable kayaks
A traditional inflatable kayak, also known as a sit-inside kayak, is a kayak with an enclosed cockpit. This inflatable kayak is a great option when it comes to keeping the water out of the kayak and in cold weather. Apart from this, the kayak has the ability to attach a spray skirt, which helps in keeping you protected from the wind and water.
Fishing inflatable kayaks
The fishing inflatable kayaks, also known as recreational inflatable kayaks or standup paddle boards, are kayaks that are basically for day use and more steady in nature. Since fishing requires staying at one place for a while, these kayaks tend to be more stable and are good for long hours of kayaking trips.
Pros & Cons of Inflatable Kayaks
Pros
Portability and ease of transportation
Since it is an inflatable kayak, it is extremely lightweight and can be easily transported from one place to another. You can just keep it in your car, or your backpack, and just take it wherever you go without having to worry about pulling a hard shell heavy kayak.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Another advantage is that the inflatable kayaks are super lightweight but do not compromise on their weight capacity, so you can just take it anywhere, and that too without having to worry about how you would take care of it since they are extremely easy to take care of.
Affordable price point
Most of the kayaks are quite expensive, and especially the hard shell kayaks come at a good price, but the inflatable kayaks are quite cheaper when compared and come at an affordable price. So, if you’re just buying a kayak for recreational purposes, an inflatable kayak is the definite go-to option.
Versatility and suitability for various water conditions
Over time, inflatable kayaks have become stronger and more versatile, making them even more suitable for various different water conditions. Whether it is a normal recreational activity day with fishing and chilling, or it is a rough white water kayaking day, inflatable kayaks are good at both.
Cons
Limited speed and performance
Inflatable kayaks are somehow restricted when it comes to good speed and performance. Unlike the traditional kayaks, they are slower and cannot break the flow of water, which quickly makes the overall speed slower and performance worse.
Prone to punctures and leaks
Since it is an inflatable kayak, there is always a possibility of popping if the inflatable kayak hits a sharp object. Even though the maintenance is easier and you can just use the repair kit to quickly make it better, the chances of punctures and leaks are always there.
Can be difficult to inflate and deflate
Inflating and deflating the inflatable kayak can be a task since it is difficult already and over time with the wear and tear of the inflatable kayak it becomes more and more time-consuming and difficult to do at the same time.
Less stable than traditional kayaks
Not just while kayaking, but you can even face some problems while you’re getting in and out of an inflatable kayak. The inflatable kayaks are less stable compared to traditional kayaks, making them a drawback for inflatable kayaks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Inflatable Kayak
When you are in the process of choosing an inflatable kayak, here are a few factors that you should consider while buying. Choosing the Best Inflatable Kayak for Your Next Adventure.
Intended use
You would need to decide what is the major use of your inflatable kayak, is it more recreational or more adventurous as per that you would go ahead with the suitable type of kayak, like a self-bailing inflatable kayak or recreational inflatable kayak, etc.
Size and weight
Another thing to be considered is whether you are going alone or with a friend or with your cute furry friend and how much stuff you will be carrying as per which the size and weight of the inflatable kayak will be decided.
Material and durability
The material and durability are other factors that are to be considered. In case you are planning to go adventurous and rough and tough you would require a kayak that is stronger and more durable which would also shoot up the price at the same time, compared to a kayak that is going to be used only occasionally and that too for recreational purposes.
Stability and maneuverability
In case you are a beginner this factor matters a lot, because balancing a kayak is not very easy and if you buy a kayak that has good stability power then your work gets easier. Also, if it is easy to maneuver you would be more relaxed and can just focus on having fun.
Price
Price is definitely one of the most important aspects to be considered, because depending upon that you would be choosing from the brand and the type of inflatable kayak. It is advised that if you are a beginner or are just buying a kayak for recreational purposes, just go for a kayak that isn’t very expensive.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of what inflatable kayaks are, and how you should be buying those, what are you waiting for? Grab your wallets and get your new kayak member home and go on your next adventure making it even more memorable!
Just make sure while buying your new inflatable kayak you do not miss out on any factor that is important for you, because one cannot keep on buying new kayaks. So, let’s get one kayak but the right one!
FAQS:
How do you choose an inflatable kayak?
To choose the right inflatable kayak you need to consider a few factors like price, stability, durability, its intended use, and more.
What is the best inflatable kayak for a beginner?
As per your need, you need to figure out the best inflatable kayak type for yourself, but in general, if you’re looking for recreational purposes then just get a recreational inflatable kayak since it is more stable or sit inside inflatable kayak, cause both of them are a little easier to manage when compared to other inflatable kayaks.
What are the advantages of an inflatable kayak?
A few advantages of an inflatable kayak are that it is easily portable and easy to transport, and it is very lightweight and easy to maneuver. Moreover, inflatable kayaks are affordable compared to traditional kayaks and are even more versatile and suitable for different water conditions.
What is the weight limit for inflatable kayaks?
On average an inflatable kayak can easily manage a weight capacity of 300 to 500 pounds.
Can inflatable kayaks be used in Whitewater rapids?
Yes, inflatable kayaks can be used in whitewater rapids, all you need to do is choose the right one as per the need of the water, and here self-bailing inflatable kayaks are advised to be bought for whitewater rapids purposes.
Are inflatable kayaks good for beginners?
Inflatable kayaks are a good option for beginners since they are not just affordable, which gives them the liberty to explore, but also at the same time, they are easier to take care of and go kayaking in.
