Default

Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2024

Whether you paddle calm water or white water, an inflatable kayak offers a lightweight, accessible boat that is easy to transfer and ready for adventure. They range from 7' solo inflatables to 16'5" tandem inflatables, from $150-$4,899 USD, and from 12-80 pounds in weight.

So beyond them all being inflatable kayaks, how much do they have in common? And more importantly, how do you find the best option for your paddling needs? Fortunately, your fellow paddlers have been paddling inflatable kayaks and sharing their experiences through reviews. By leveraging the reviews and experience that's been shared by thousands of your fellow paddlers, they've helped narrow those dozens upon dozens of options down to the best of the best.

We will break it up into the Best Solo Inflatable Kayaks and the Best Tandem Inflatable Kayaks.

When a 17-year-old paddleboarder was swept out to sea, his survival depended on his cell phone and the voice on the other end of the line.

Tips for Buying an Inflatable Kayak

There are tons of things to consider when researching or buying your inflatable kayak. Before you start shopping solely based on price, you first need to consider:

  • How, Where and With Whom you plan to paddle with?
  • How do you plan to transport your inflatable kayak? Make sure that the packed dimensions and weight are suitable for your transportation method.
  • Number of Seats - solo, tandem, or 3+ paddlers? Some inflatables can be converted from solo to tandem and afford the optional flexibility.
  • Read these inflatable kayak reviews - especially with inflatables, you'll get a sense for the durability, ease of inflation/transport, and types of waters that each boat has been tested on.
  • Try it before you buy it. Research is key, but nothing beats getting on water with a boat. Talk to friends, borrow a boat, and contact your local retailer for a demo.

The best inflatable kayak for you is going to be different than the next paddler. And that's okay. You have to factor in everything from your experience, planned water types, durations, budget, and preferences. So use this list as a starting point. Get some ideas, read some reviews, look through the entire kayak gear guide, maybe browse the message boards, talk to your local paddlesports retailer or paddling groups, and get out and try it before you buy it! And, of course, when you're done, be sure to help the next paddler in their search by submitting a review!



Best Solo Inflatable Kayaks of 2024

AdvancedFrame Sport

10' 5"
Length
32"
Width (in)
26
Weight (lb)
$549.99
MSRP

A highly-rated inflatable kayak that is a great choice for a first-time buyer. The lower cost makes it affordable for most paddlers. It's a great choice for protected waters and slow moving rivers. Advanced Elements offers a variety of models in the AdvancedFrame series including other solo inflatables like the AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • carrying duffel
  • Repair kit included.
  • folding seat

AdvancedFrame Sport Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(15 Consumer Reviews)

I originally posted a…

I originally posted a terrible product review here and I have to say that I was WRONG. The Customer service is Incredible. They were responsive and helpful. I am looking forw… read full review

I've wanted a kayak for years…

I've wanted a kayak for years and never bought one because i live in a condo and had nowhere to keep it and refused to by a blow up because they are sluggish in the water.adv… read full review

Excellent customer service…

Excellent customer service from Advanced Elements - answered my questions quickly before I bought. I needed an alternate kayak to my hard shell, and the inflatable DS model … read full review

Beach LP1

by TAHE
9' 10"
Length
37"
Width (in)
$499.95
MSRP

Tahe (formerly BIC Sport) has a great new lineup of boats. The Beach LP1 inflatable kayak is a lightweight, easy to use inflatable kayak for one person with a maximum capacity of 220lbs/100kg. Featuring a hydrodynamic hull made of durable tarpaulin, three air chambers, an elevated inflatable seat and three removable fins for tracking and control.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Complete package
  • 3-chamber construction
  • Stable and easy to ride
  • Stern deck bungee
  • Hydrodynamic hull
  • Inflates in under 5 minutes
  • Elevated, adjustable inflatable seat
  • Bow & stern carry handles

Beach LP1 Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(1 Consumer Reviews)

THIS IS A FUN BOAT! I have…

THIS IS A FUN BOAT! I have to admit I was a bit bias before getting into my first inflatable kayak but launching from a beach into a sheltered bay in light chop...WOW! I hone… read full review

393rl RazorLite™ Kayak

12' 10"
Length
28"
Width (in)
33
Weight (lb)
$949
MSRP
Learn More

The World's First All Drop Stitch Patented RazorLite™ inflatable kayak! A lighter, narrower and faster to paddle, high-performance solo kayak for adventurers. With a tapered, hard-nosed bow and stern, and fully constructed with Drop Stitch technology. The 393RL cuts through waves cleaner, straighter, and sharper than any other kayak on the market. Enabling paddling speeds up to 6 mph. Now with built-in adjustable footrest. Because of its high-performance design and capabilities, the RazorLite™ Series is best recommended for intermediate and above paddlers. U.S. Patent 9,452,809

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • NMMA Certified
  • 2 Open and close drain valves
  • Large, Removable, Swept Back Rear Skeg
  • Front & Rear Spray Skirts with Carry Handles
  • 6 D-Rings to Secure Seat and FootRest
  • 3 One-Way Air Valves

393rl RazorLite™ Kayak Reviews

4 out of 5 stars
(20 Consumer Reviews)

I have been using the 393…

I have been using the 393 Razor Lite in Florida waters for about 3 years now. I have run over sunken metal, shoals, branches and trees, rocks and even oysters and gators. It … read full review

I bought my Razorlite 393rl…

I bought my Razorlite 393rl this past spring, to replace my beloved Eddyline - which had been stolen off the roof of my car. At least if it's inside the vehicle, theft is les… read full review

I have taken this boat out…

I have taken this boat out on rivers and lakes, including Lake Ontario. It is a really nice boat to paddle in. I'm used to hard shell touring kayaks and although they are gre… read full review

AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite

13'
Length
32"
Width (in)
42
Weight (lb)
$1,029.99
MSRP

The higher-performance version of the AdvancedFrame Sport, the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite is a hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak, it incorporates our proven aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern, and Drop-stitch technology in the floor, to provide paddling performance that rivals that of a hard-shell kayak.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • carrying duffel
  • Repair kit included.
  • folding seat

AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
(29 Consumer Reviews)

Is the AFX Expedition Elite…

Is the AFX Expedition Elite a Best All-Round Kayak? Of course, there cannot be only one "best all-round" kayak because we all come in different sizes. Above every other consi… read full review

First timer, since I left…

First timer, since I left scouts. I bought this two years ago with the drop stitch floor. It has worked well and let me get comfortable and decide to move on. The setting of … read full review

I've owned the AE1009 kayak…

I've owned the AE1009 kayak for 2 years and have put in with it over a dozen times. This was my first kayak. It's stable and tracks pretty well despite it's 32" wide profile.… read full review

Moki-Lite

10'
Length
30"
Width (in)
17
Weight (lb)
$699
MSRP

Well-known in the packraft category, Kokopelli recently expanded into the inflatable kayak market. The innovative and minimalist Moki-Lite only weighs 25lbs (11.3kg). It’s perfect for adventure paddlers seeking a high-performance durable inflatable kayak.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Includes:
  • 1x Moki-Lite
  • 1x Nano Barrel Pump
  • 1x EVA Seat
  • 1x Drop-Stitch Floor
  • 1x Repair Kit with Glue
  • 1x Removable Fin
  • 1x Animas River Bag - XL

Moki-Lite Reviews

3 out of 5 stars
(2 Consumer Reviews)

My Moki Lite is wonderful.…

My Moki Lite is wonderful. The kayak is easy to inflate. She tracks very well especially with the skeg. The Moki is very stable and I do not feel like I would tip over into t… read full review

Lynx I

by AIRE
10' 2"
Length
38"
Width (in)
33
Weight (lb)
$2,049
MSRP

AIRE's classic inflatable river runners are nimble and maneuverable, offering incredible stability and control. Their tried and true design performs well on big water, creeks and local river sections. Lynx kayaks are all-around whitewater craft, built for day-long outings and small extended trips.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • Warranty: 10 Year No Fault
  • Valve: Leafield C7
  • Seam Construction: Welded
  • Fabric Denier x Material Weight: 1100 x 24/27
  • AIREcell Material: Urethane

Lynx I Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
(6 Consumer Reviews)

I recently bought this duckie…

I recently bought this duckie for whitewater. I was paddling a whitewater kayak but I decided the Aire Lynx IK was more to my style. I kept renting duckies at a local river.… read full review

My husband and I love our…

My husband and I love our Lynx 1 kayaks. Stable and fast (not quite as fast as the Force XL). Easy to maneuver. Also easy to flip back over (when needed) and hop in and go.Gr… read full review

I owned this IK for a little…

I owned this IK for a little under a year. Nice durable construction made to take any thing thrown at it. Especially with the warranty it has. I did find it to be a little un… read full review

Lono Aero

12' 6"
Length
51
Weight (lb)
$1,749
MSRP
REI

For the person who wants speed, packability, portability, versatility, durability, and a pedal-driven option, the LONO Aero paired with the APEX Pedal Drive delivers. Use the LONO Aero by itself as a kayak or SUP, or add in the APEX Pedal Drive to take things to the next level. Never before have all of these features and benefits been available in one easy-to-use, delivered direct-to-your-door, badass package.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

Lono Aero Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(1 Consumer Reviews)

Very stable and comfortable.…

Very stable and comfortable. Great fishing Kayak when using the Rack Pole holder. It does sit higher in the water, so the wind effects it a little, but great for drifting the… read full review

Best Tandem Inflatable Kayaks of 2024

FastTrack™ 465ft

15' 3"
Length
36"
Width (in)
38
Weight (lb)
$1,249
MSRP
Learn More

Looking for a 3-person kayak or tandem with a bunch of gear? The The Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack™ combines all the features of it's smaller sister, the 385ft FastTrack™ with the ability to carry more cargo and/or paddlers.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem, 3+
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • NMMA Certified
  • 2 Open and close drain valves
  • Front & rear spray skirts with storage below and elastic rope lacing for additional storage above
  • Separate inner High Pressure Drop Stitch floor for greater rigidity
  • Large, removable, swept back skeg at rear to control yaw and improve speed
  • Outside drop stitch high pressure keel at bow for true tracking
  • 18 D-rings to secure seats and gear
  • State of the art NeedleKnife Keel
  • Bow and stern grab handles

FastTrack™ 465ft Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(6 Consumer Reviews)

Used it on a 18 km trip for family of 4 with 160 lbs of gear

I've had this kayak for a few years. It's used great to go fishing with my 2 kids (9 and 11). The kayak is quick and easy to inflate. My kids have no problems paddling it. … read full review

Ok I wrote my original review…

Ok I wrote my original review when I first bought the Sea Eagle Fast Track in 2013, well now it's 2015 and I am updating it. Still love this thing, we will throw it in t… read full review

We have had our 465 for 5…

We have had our 465 for 5 years. We mainly use it in Yellowstone National Park on Lake Yellowstone. We have had this boat in big water, flat water, and rivers and never felt … read full review

Beach LP2

by TAHE
11'
Length
40"
Width (in)
$599.95
MSRP

The Beach LP2 inflatable kayak is a lightweight, easy to use inflatable kayak for one or two person use with a maximum capacity of 330lbs/150kg. Featuring a hydrodynamic hull made of durable tarpaulin, three air chambers, elevated inflatable seats and three removable fins for tracking and control.

BIC Sport is now TAHE! New Brand, Same Great Company and Product

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • 3-Chamber construction
  • Stable and easy to ride
  • Stern deck bungee
  • Quickly converts from 1-person to 2-person use
  • Hydrodynamic hull
  • Inflates in under 5 minutes
  • Elevated, adjustable inflatable seat
  • Bow and stern carry handles
  • Drain plug

Beach LP2 Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(4 Consumer Reviews)

Was looking for something to…

Was looking for something to throw in the trunk of the car and take on family vacations and this live up to everything that was advertised. Easy setup. Would be great if ther… read full review

A key aspect of your…

A key aspect of your financial life is your credit score. Higher credit scores increase your chances of being approved for loans and credit cards with the best terms, which w… read full review

We have 3 different…

We have 3 different inflatable kayaks in the family and this one is the favorite. Everyone is always fighting over this one because it's the easiest to setup. Thinking about … read full review

Lynx II

by AIRE
12' 6"
Length
39"
Width (in)
43
Weight (lb)
$2,149
MSRP

Looking for a kayak that is up for whitewater adventure, then the Lynx II is your boat. Their tried and true design performs well on big water, creeks and local river sections. Lynx kayaks are all-around whitewater craft built for day-long outings and small extended trips. Paddle the Lynx II tandem or use its increased load capacity to gear up for longer trips, paddling solo.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Tube Diameter: 11.5"
  • Bow Rise x Stern Rise: 15"
  • Weight: 43
  • 2" Waterline: 91
  • Aire Chambers: 3
  • AIREcell Material: Urethane
  • Fabric Denier x Material Weight: 1100 x 24/27
  • Seam Construction: Welded
  • Valve: Leafield C7
  • Warranty: 10 Year No Fault

Lynx II Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(13 Consumer Reviews)

I have used/own several Aire…

I have used/own several Aire Inflatable kayaks for day use and multi-day float trips, e.g. the Escalante, Big Horn Canyon, and the Owyhee. My floating partner also used an A… read full review

The AIRE Lynx II is the most…

The AIRE Lynx II is the most versatile IK I have ever operated. More importantly though, is the warranty AND service I have experienced with this company. No one else can c… read full review

We bought 2 Lynx II…

We bought 2 Lynx II inflatable kayaks when our children were young. That was 20 years ago. They are still in use. People cannot believe they are that old. I have had to patch… read full review

AdvancedFrame Convertible

15'
Length
32"
Width (in)
52
Weight (lb)
$979.95
MSRP

The AdvancedFrame® Convertible is a fifteen foot kayak that can be paddled solo or tandem. With an open deck design, you can easily enter and exit the boat or utilize the optional single or double decks to convert your AdvancedFrame® Convertible from an open deck to a closed deck kayak in a matter of seconds. The design of this kayak combines our rigid bow and stern rib-frame design with the versatility of tandem or solo seating positions and interchangeable decks.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • carrying duffel
  • Repair kit included.
  • 2 folding seats

AdvancedFrame Convertible Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
(45 Consumer Reviews)

Excellent kayak! I am using…

Excellent kayak! I am using it for more than 10 years now, no complaints - besides the faded colors of the skin - it functions as a new

We bought ours used in April…

We bought ours used in April 2020 and used it a bunch over the summer and into the fall. We live in Michigan where there are many small lakes and rivers to take our kayak on.… read full review

Incredibly easy set up,…

Incredibly easy set up, reliable in the water, comfortable, simple break down, not nearly as difficult to get back in the bad as many complain about, best of all our kayak fi… read full review

Tomcat Tandem

12' 6"
Length
38.5"
Width (in)
44
Weight (lb)
$899
MSRP

A bigger tandem version of the Tomcat, this stable inflatable shares the same durable construction and design features, but offers more paddling options. It comes standard with two inflatable seats to tackle whitewater with a friend, but can also be paddled solo and the extra load capacity filled with gear. It features bow and stern dodgers, a mesh drain system, improved shape, flip handles, welded seams and bow/stern d-rings.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Tomcat Tandem Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
(9 Consumer Reviews)

Fantastic Inflatable. Sturdy…

Fantastic Inflatable. Sturdy construction, easily inflated, good quality valves. Back-rest only seats might need upgrading, but certainly functional. I'm a big guy, and pr… read full review

Great beginner-intermediate…

Great beginner-intermediate inflatable kayak. Big enough for single with gear, or double (with little gear). Solid construction, semi-comfortable inflatable triangular seat… read full review

I've been paddling this model…

I've been paddling this model for 5 years now after 15 years of class 4-5 hard shell boating. I've been down the Grand twice in it as a solo setup and it was very good. Proba… read full review

Explorer 380x

12' 6"
Length
39"
Width (in)
38
Weight (lb)
$1,049
MSRP
Learn More

Tackle your adventures in tandem. The 380x is made to be ridden by one or two persons. Now you can do what others only dream of with our most versatile kayak series ever! Designed to tackle whitewater, open-water, and now down-wind sailing! Large enough for two but small enough for one! The 380x does it all!

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • NMMA Certified
  • 16 High Capacity Self-bailing Drain Valves
  • Large, Removable, Swept Back Skeg for Flatwater Touring
  • Front & Rear Spray Skirts with Carry Handles and bungee cords
  • Separate Drop Stitch floor for rigidity
  • 24 D-rings to secure seats and gear
  • One-Way Air Valves
  • Sea Eagle motormount receivers for optional motormount

Explorer 380x Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
(36 Consumer Reviews)

I took this 169 miles down…

I took this 169 miles down the Delaware river last October over the course of 7 days. Set up was a breeze. It handled all water conditions ranging from calm to Class III with… read full review

It is great

It is great

the best kayak I have owned

the best kayak I have owned

SE-370

12' 6"
Length
34"
Width (in)
32
Weight (lb)
$329
MSRP
Learn More

The Sea Eagle 370 is the SE-330's big sister. Only 6 lbs. heavier (32 lbs.) with a larger carrying capacity of 3 people or 650 lbs. You can take along enough gear for that long weekend fishing trip, camping adventure or river running voyage. Form and function make the Sea Eagle 370 America's second most popular inflatable kayak.

This affordable inflatable sport kayak is as lightweight and portable as it gets, yet still remarkably stable and durable.

  • Structure: Inflatable
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Tandem, 3+
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • NMMA Certified
  • Open and close drain valve
  • Five deluxe one-way valves
  • Lashed down inflatable spray skirts
  • I-beam construction floor
  • 2 skegs on the bottom for better tracking & speed
  • Sun & saltwater resistant hull material

SE-370 Reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
(30 Consumer Reviews)

I have had mine since 2013…

I have had mine since 2013 and have used it 20 plus times. It is still in good shape. I rinse it each time I put it away. I have the deluxe seats which are comfortable. I rec… read full review

Recently bought a sea eagle…

Recently bought a sea eagle 370 pro . For my wife and grandson. Read a lot of reviews most all were very positive about the boat. After receiving it was really impressed by t… read full review

I have gone up and down with…

I have gone up and down with my feelings about this boat, initially resenting how easy is punctures on rocky rivers. The company rep told me that it has been successfully use… read full review

Related Articles

Getting Started, Boats & Gear

From inflatables to hard boards, the gamut of All-Around Paddle Boards being offered in 2023 is…

Getting Started, Boats & Gear

Roll your kayak effortlessly with the use of a kayak cart. Once you have one, you'll wonder how you ever…

Getting Started, Boats & Gear

Sit On Top Kayaks are known for their ease of use, stability, and room to move. These fundamentals for…

Getting Started, Boats & Gear

Here are the 10 best Sit on Top Kayaks for 2023 as paddled, tested, and reviewed by the largest…