Best Kayaks at REI
Before hopping in the car to head to your local REI dealer, you might ask yourself a few questions like:
- What type of kayak am I looking for? Sit inside? Sit on top?
- Do I want a solo or tandem?
- Would I consider an inflatable kayak?
- Oh what about pedal drive? I could be hands-free!
- And I wonder what my fellow paddling comrades would say about each of these boats?
If you've even asked yourself any of these sorts of questions, you're a few steps ahead in the process of finding the best kayak for you. It can be hard to navigate all of the options and understand the tradeoffs between two boats, so it's good to do some research ahead of time. Fortunately for you, your fellow paddlers have been paddling, testing, and sharing their experiences long before you were in the market!
Below we'll break out the best available kayaks at REI by type of kayak. Read reviews for each, compare specs, and narrow down until you've found the best boat for you.
Best Sit Inside Kayaks at REI
Rio
The Rio is designed for the smaller-framed paddler looking for a recreational style kayak with spirited performance and nimble handling. At just under 12 feet in length and only 35 pounds, the Rio combines comfortable stability with a playful and efficient hull. While ready for the first time paddler, the Rio will soon tempt you to experiment with more advanced paddle strokes.
- More information about Rio
- View all products from Eddyline Kayaks
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- 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
Rio Reviews
the Eddyline Rio kayak is…
My wife has an all white Rio…
This ride is the hotrod of…
Enduro 12
Wide and stable, the Enduro 12 is all about safety and cargo capacity. Its gently-grooved hull and integrated skeg have blended durability and tracking, while the structured deck and large cockpit with thighbraces and front and rear watertight compartments allow you to use it in a wide range of adventures, from simply cruising around to carrying all your gear to tackle that elusive bass you saw on the other side of the bay.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- BOW & STERN SEALED BULKHEAD WITH 15” RUBBER HATCH
- TRACK-RITE SKEG SYSTEM
- CUSTOM-FIT SEATING SYSTEM
- SAFETY STRAPS
- FLUSHMOUNT ROD HOLDER
- GEAR NET
Enduro 12 Reviews
I have a cousin who owns one…
Great wee tourer, the seat…
I recently purchased this…
Best Sit On Top Kayaks at REI
The Catch 100
The CATCH 100 is made for the more advanced angler looking for a kayak packed with convenient and comfortable features for the ultimate fishing experience. All of Pelican's boats have been thoughtfully designed with the most convenient and comfortable features to suit each paddler’s specific needs. The outdoors is now within your reach with the perfect boat waiting for you.
- More information about The Catch 100
- View all products from Pelican International
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- Tunnel Hull offers maximum stability giving you a secure and steady ride
- Ergocast G2 Dual Position Seating System
- Many pockets located on the chair provide more space to store your gear and fishing tools
- Packed with the most convenient features and storage compartments
- Four flush mount rod holders, accessory eyelets, an angler ruler and 4 in. rigging tracks to install your favorite accessories
- Additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops meets or surpasses ABYC Standards
- Exceptionally durable high molecular density polyethylene means less material is needed to produce each boat
The Catch 100 Reviews
This kayak has the features…
This is a great fishing…
I have had the Catch 100 for…
Tarpon 120
The most popular Tarpon because of its manageable size. Efficient layout leaves plenty of room for paddlers and their gear, with features to accommodate a variety of hobbies.
- More information about Tarpon 120
- View all products from Wilderness Systems
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner
Tarpon 120 Reviews
I'd go four-and-one-half…
had 3other yaks moken ten ,…
Love this kayak! Previously…
Ouassou
The Ouassou is designed as a versatile and maneuverable kayak ideal for beach fun. The stern handles let you hang on and swim and allow easy access on board. The Ouassou also handles surf and waves comfortably. The ‘spatula’ shaped hull is derived from surf longboards and rodeo kayaks. The slight keel and lateral rail design provide directional stability and excellent tracking. The Ouassou’s optional knee-strap system also allows you to secure your body to the cockpit when you are looking for greater control in waves or whitewater.
BIC Sport is now TAHE! New Brand, Same Great Company and Products – Learn More
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- 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
- A fun and versatile beach kayak
- Wide, spatula hull shape
- Bow, stern and hull mounted carry handles
- Single-seater
- Ergonomic, anti-slip seats
- 100% Recyclable
- Wide rear area
- Triple-level moulded foot rests
- Removable fins (optional)
- Tough TST thermoformed construction
- 100% made in France
Ouassou Reviews
The Ouassou is a fun kayak,…
This is an awesome kayak. It…
Best Inflatable Kayaks at REI
AdvancedFrame
The AdvancedFrame® is a hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak. Utilizing built-in aluminum ribs in the bow and stern, it slices through water like a knife and rivals the trackability of hard-shell kayaks. The stern acts as a skeg, increasing the tracking performance. It uses extremely durable materials in a 3-layer construction and features many high-end components. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips. It sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend adventure.
- More information about AdvancedFrame
- View all products from Advanced Elements
- 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
AdvancedFrame Reviews
One thing I haven't seen…
Good: Easy to set up - takes…
I have the two man Advance…
Best Tandem Kayaks at REI
Beach LP2
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. The complete package fits neatly into the included carry-all backpack together with two 4-piece take-apart paddles, inflation pump and repair kit.
BIC Sport is now TAHE! New Brand, Same Great Company and Products – Learn More
- 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
Was looking for something to…
A key aspect of your…
We have 3 different…
Argo 136XP Tandem
The ARGO 136XP recreational kayak is versatile, fun and ideal for paddlers looking for a stable and relaxing experience on lakes, slow moving rivers and calm waters. All of Pelican's boats have been thoughtfully designed with the most convenient and comfortable features to suit each paddler’s specific needs. The outdoors is now within your reach with the perfect boat waiting for you.
- More information about Argo 136XP Tandem
- View all products from Pelican International
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Tandem
- 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
- Adjustable Ergofit G2 seating system is specially designed with thicker ergonomic padding
- Packed with the most convenient features and storage compartments
- Keel extension helps your kayak go straighter as you paddle along
- Floating blocks on each side of the kayak along with a flatter hull type ensures your safety and peace of mind during your ride
- Multichine Flat Bottom Hull offers a maximum stability giving you a secure and steady ride
- Exceptionally durable high molecular density polyethylene means less material is needed to produce each boat
Argo 136XP Tandem Reviews
Aloha! First sit in and…
If you’re going out on the…
Best Pedal-Drive Kayaks at REI
Getaway 100 HDII
The GETAWAY 110 HDII recreational pedal kayak was made for paddlers who want to relax on the most beautiful rivers. Its HyDryve II pedal system helps you navigate effortlessly and makes maneuvering in shallow water or around aquatic plants easier. You will be comfortably seated in its ERGOCAST XP™ seat, which can also be removed and used as a beach chair. Equipped with two rigging tracks on the handles to install your favorite accessories, this pedal kayak includes a rear storage platform with bungee cords, two bottle holders and accessory eyelets. With all of these convenient features at your fingertips, you can paddle with peace of mind.
- More information about Getaway 100 HDII
- View all products from Pelican International
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- Pedal System
- Stable & Comfortable
- Two in-handle rigging tracks
- Stern storage platform with bungee cord
- Two bottle holders
- Accessory Eyelets
Getaway 100 HDII Reviews
Love sitting on top in a…
just got a (1) 2nt hand and…
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