Best Inflatable Kayak in 2021 – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

A good idea for a relaxing and fun weekend is when you have no pending work and visit the lake nearby alone or with some friends or family for some hours of Kayaking.

The weather is clear and refreshing, which is perfect weather for bringing along a Kayak for the aerobic sport. No one would want to spoil their mood by bringing gear that would be unsuitable for such an event, like an unreliable Kayak? So what to do to avoid such a poor situation.

The thing with Kayaks is that there are several options, either they are hard-shell or inflatable. Hard-shell ones were being used in earlier times. Still, the thing about the best inflatable Kayak is that they are easily portable from one place to another, from the lake near our house to that particular spot you found during vacationing. So the limits are endless with portable and inflatable ones. 

You’d have to decide if you are a light packer when it comes to a lake trip or a heavy one because then you’d want a Kayak with significant storage space. You’d need the perfect one for you as it would be an investment that you want to benefit from in the long run.

Here are some ideas for you. There are top inflatable Kayaks in this list based on the needs of different buyers who are interested in buying the perfect Kayak.

11 Best Inflatable Kayak Reviews

We suggest you check all your options for unique Inflatable Kayaks and buy the one that suits you the most.

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Sea Eagle 370
  • Weight: 26 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 650 lbs
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INTEX EXCURSION PRO KAYAK

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
  • Weight: 39 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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Intex Challenger Kayak

Intex Challenger Kayak
  • Weight: 33 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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Sevylor Quikpak K5

Sevylor Quikpak K5
  • Weight: 39 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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Sevylor Big Basin

Sevylor Big Basin
  • Weight: 21 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 3
  • Weight Capacity: 490 lbs
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AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak

AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak
  • Weight: 36 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 1
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
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Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak

Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
  • Weight: 30 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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Solstice by Swimline Durango Kayak

Solstice by Swimline Durango Kayak
  • Weight: 29 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
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BOTE Deus Aero Inflatable Kayak

BOTE Deus Aero Inflatable Kayak
  • Weight: 41 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 1
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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Straight Edge 2 Kayak

Straight Edge 2 Kayak
  • Weight: 47 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
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Yocalo Inflatable Boat Series

Yocalo Inflatable Boat Series
  • Weight: 15 lbs
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
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1. Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe

best inflatable kayak

This classy model can hold about three people approximately while being light as a feather, it’s weight is about 25lbs, it’s light, and it can handle up to class III whitewater which is very impressive for its size and its capacity. 

It is perfect for an outdoorsy couple because of its lavish two-seat design, the seats being comfortable for the back providing it with the necessary support which removes any troubles while paddling as they are kayaking along the waves, two paddles come with the kayak and a foot pump along with an accessory carry bag. Thus the deal is pretty sweet for outdoor gear.

The Paddles are one of the integral components to Kayaking because the better paddle you have, the more comfortable would it be for you to carry out this activity, You don’t want anything too complicated or too flimsy while you are out there in the water. 

Moreover, a sudden change of weather can cause complications so just in case you must be very good with the paddle, and to be acceptable means having a paddle that is easy to work with, The Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe has the perfect asymmetrical blade with an aluminum shaft, it’s 2 AB30 7’10” 4 Part Paddles has a unique design. The speed is controlled by the specs that are installed at the bottom for control and cutting through the waves. 

It is easily inflatable at the pressure of 1.1 psi and has one valve for inflation and deflation.

Pros
  • Easily Inflatable
  • Can Accommodate Three People
  • Lightweight and can handle Class III Whitewater
  • Two Seaters
Cons
  • No storage space except for carrying bag
  • No holders for a bag

2. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak – Best Rated Inflatable Kayak

best inflatable kayak

Sometimes we prefer things when they are easily portable and manageable; this is an option for those people as it is very lightweight due to its polyester core and PVC built which also gives it the advantage of practically be invincible. Well, not exactly but once you are resistant to damage from the force, sunlight, and abrasion, your powers are next to a vampire from a fictional novel. 

It’s so easy to work with that you would need your life-saver dad for it and would be easily able to inflate and deflate it with spring-loaded valves. You can toss aside your fears of this inflated piece being torn into by rigid rocks because high-pressure inflation gives it sturdy stability.

It is like an ‘all you need in one’ boat, it has various settings for different deep and shallow water. Not only is its settings impressive but it is also highly comfortable due to its movable seats with two footrests for comfort. 

It also has some fishing pole holders for additional comfort and makeshift storage space that is present for the rider’s convenience, which has to hold space for small items such as fish finders, GPS systems while having a carry bag and rescue patch also there.

 It can hold two people at most, about 200 pounds that is, but hey if you go kayaking long enough, the aerobic exercise will make sure you could take three in some months. The storage unit has a stainless steel cover over the bow of the boat so any wet equipment could dry there.

Pros
  • Resistant to damage
  • Storage spaces present
  • Easily inflatable
Cons
  • Less holding capacity

3. Intex Challenger Kayak Series – Best Cheap Inflatable Kayak

best inflatable kayak

This one is surely a steal. It is very sport-themed with its sharp streamlined design that is built to cut through sharp and big waves and survive in bad weather. It generally presents the idea of an adventurous and fearless ride.

Its colors are bright green so it could be visible to people from afar, well not just to show off even if this beauty is worth showing off but also because it is a safe bet to have something easily located when performing water sports, especially if you are one of those daredevil athlete types.

The paddles are a long 86 inches made of aluminum and a pump that makes inflation and deflation look like a piece of cake. Not only does it look beautiful but it’s also super tough because of its vinyl composition which is resistant to UV damage and puncture-proof. 

It has a very small and lightweight composition but has a high capacity pump for inflation so it doesn’t have to be a separate purchase and also a patch kit. It holds about two people or 400 pounds of weight.

Pros
  • Colorful and Stream-line structure for easy movement
  • The pump comes with the purchase.
  • Available with a high discount of 155 Dollars!! How many pizzas are those?
Cons
  • No storage space
  • Not enough weight capacity

4. Sevylor Quikpak K5

best inflatable kayak

If you’re a fellow who gets a bit agitated when it comes to setting up equipment, this one is the best inflatable kayak for you as it is an easy five-minute set-up that doesn’t involve any satanic ritual type mechanisms and is very easy to work with.

It contains a ‘magical’ makeshift seat. It is perfect for a day on the lake. Its material is made of Tarpaulin and polyester which makes it rigid and strong against any punctures or damage because of its structure. It uses a double valve to inflate and deflate easily which is why it is so easy to use.

Not only is it easiest to work with but also is so reliable that it can be the second Batman and Robin because of its multiple air chambers, these air chambers are very important in the case due to some force or change of weather, one of the chambers is punctured, the second chamber remains inflated hence saving you from a bad experience or a possible injury.

Although it wouldn’t be that much necessary because of its airtight structure which makes it secured from punctures. 

Pros
  • Easy to use and manage
  • Safe if even punctured due to multiple chambers
Cons
  • One seater so the capacity to hold people is less but the price is the same as of a two-seater
  • No storage space

5. Sevylor Big Basin

best inflatable kayak

Tired of couple Kayaks? Get a third wheeler. This best inflatable kayak has three seats; thus it has big holding capacity of about 490 lbs. Even if you don’t have a third friend, just grab a very fluffy teddy bear along to read to when you stop paddling.

Its PVC material makes it rigid and perfect for lake use and its Tarpaulin material at the base makes it resistant against punctures and damage. It is drowning proof because of its multiple chambers which means that if one is punctured then the other acts like autopilot, well not pilot as you would be doing the paddling but it keeps it reliable but its airtight technology makes it very hard to be damaged or leak. The valve is double threaded so that the kayak is easily inflated and deflated for easy use.

The seats are very comfortable with carry handles that make moving in and out of water feel like a breeze, that’s how easy it is to work with this Kayak.

If you don’t want to ruin your outfit or our hair, then the spray covers are there to save you from splashes and no one would even know that you went Kayaking in the first place well of course they’ll know if you post the pictures with your amazing Kayak.

Pros
  • Three seaters
  • Good security due to multiple air chambers
  • Spray covers for additional comfort
Cons
  • No paddles and no storage space

6. AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak

best inflatable kayak reviews

This is one of the most stable that of would find because this sturdy Kayak has Aluminum ribs structuring it’s bow and stern, making a sort of skeleton to keep it stable and upright. Not only is it strong but its amazing sharp bow aids its speed.

It is so easy to use that even a child can fix it up as it is already assembled when shipped, all you have to do is unpack, pump it up and fix yourself a seat for a lake day Sunday. When everything is done for you, then all you have to worry about is knowing how to catch a fish and nothing else.

It’s three layers ensures that you never face a puncturing situation. The seat is so comfortable that you might end up wanting to spend the whole weekend at the lake because even after hours of paddling you’d feel as comfortable as if at home, sitting on that warm couch.

It’s the biggest winning point is that its shape and functionality are that of a hardshell kayak but it has the ease of portability that the hard shell kayak lacks. Making it the best option.

Pros
  • Sturdy like a hard-shell kayak
  • Portable at the same time
  • Easy to put together
  • A very comfortable seat
Cons
  • One seater so less weight capacity
  • No storage space and no paddles

7. Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak

best inflatable kayak reviews

This Kayak screams sporty with it’s beautiful visible from miles away yellow color and sporty graphics that are hard to miss from a distance, that makes it so easy to spot. Thus it can be a beautiful show-off and an additional safety measure at the same time. It can be taken on the lakes and on rivers.

Not only is it fun and a promise of an adventure but also very comfortable because of its adjustable seat which has the most amazing backrest that would make you feel at home and you would spend the whole day paddling without even realizing.

Its skeg can be removed according to the depth of the water and the location to make sure that the directional stability is taken care of. An amazing two-seat best inflatable kayak that is colorful, sporty, adventurous, and safe at the same time with its technology, it is sturdier than a hard-shell Kayak.

Pros
  • Its Skeg can be removed according to need
  • It Used on both lakes and rivers
Cons
  • No storage space and no paddles or other equipment along with it

8. Solstice by Swimline Durango Kayak

inflatable kayak reviews

A kayak that can’t host a dog properly can’t be considered a real kayak. With that in mind, Swimline Durango Kayak might be the golden pick for all you animal lovers out there whom just want to chill and relax in the river with your significant other (in this case your pet) and mind your own business

Super durable and easily inflated, not only is it a mild hassle to carry around you can sit around and watch your dog paw the floor for as long as you like and not have to worry about any sudden leaks or other issues. 

In the case of a random capsizing even like hitting a rock, no need to fear, it’s tough interior also comes with a free tough exterior which can hold its ground to even the sturdiest rocks! Can easily host two people with a weight limit of 400 lbs before it might start showing some performance issues.

The biggest glaring issue of this best rated inflatable kayak might just involve the goodwill of the solstice by providing the chairs with the kayak. If it’s not installed properly, it could lead to a very bad time for its user through repetitive falling towards the sturdy floor of the boat.

Of course, if it is properly installed it can be classified as one the best and most reliable kayak out there right up there with its other brothers and sisters in the upper kayak ranks.

Pros
  • Easily Inflated
  • Durable
  • Bears more weight
Cons
  • Nothing much

9. BOTE Deus Aero Inflatable Kayak

inflatable kayak reviews

A kayak specifically designed not just for relaxing but other recreational activities such as fishing? I can already imagine the number of both introverts and extroverts equally running to get a chance to get their hands on this beauty!

A convertible kayak, I never imagined the worth of such as aspect before in searching for kayaks but with being both a paddleboard and an inflatable kayak through the easy function of just removing a top chamber, this kayak truly outshines itself among its other peers and in a unique way!

No longer will the paddleboard and kayak lovers bicker amongst themselves now that innovation has graced us! Aside from the super cool convertible feature, the kayak is extremely durable in almost all bodies of water and very portable for all those college students in apartments out there ready to make summer the best summer of their lives!

The only other downside of not buying this, aside from missing all the fun, would be the pumping procedure and the folding of this kayak. Like with any newbie to the activity or even an experienced person, you might get the folding procedure wrong the first few times and get anxious but it’s a simple issue to gloss over and would only require a little usage for you to get accustomed to its alien folding. 

Aside from that, if you want to pump this kayak to its maximum potential, you should prepare yourself for a good workout because pumping this bad boy would leave you sweatier than your morning jog (provided you don’t actually do jogs in the morning).

Pros
  • Innovative
  • Feature-packed
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Hard to pump

10. Advanced Elements Straight Edge 2 Kayak

inflatable kayak reviews

This Kayak holds a special place in the heart of almost of its user. Designed for both a pleasant experience alone as well as a party of two (or even three depending on the size of the passengers), it’s both versatile in its use and completely fun to use! 

In the aspect of accommodation, this kayak could be considered a great grab, but they are various other qualities that make this kayak excel at points its competitors fall shy.

As mentioned before, it can hold up to two people, but you can squeeze a few more without affecting its overall performance in the water provided they weigh considerably though. 

Convenience wise, it falls in with its other kayak brothers by taking time to fill (10 minutes if you pump at standard pressure and less if you’re enthusiastic!) and weighs a ton when it’s actually pumped. Still, I imagine the latter won’t trouble you as much due to its solution to the problem with its great portability aspect. 

Not only can you fit this big boy in a trunk, but you can also safely squeeze in tighter places and find it to be absolutely un-paved provided the space is reasonable of course.

This, not only solves the “carrying a bloated kayak across a wide stretch of land to the water issue” but also gives the added benefit of safe-keeping in protected areas without the need to reserve a lot of space for it. Probably a sigh of relief for all those claustrophobes and college students out there!

Pros
  • Can hold more people
  • Can Accommodate Three People
  • Easy to pack-up
Cons
  • The tendency to feel sluggish

11. Yocalo Inflatable Boat Series

best affordable inflatable kayak

And lastly, An otherwise cheap alternative to its other brothers in the category, this inflatable boat might seem a little rough on the eyes at first glance but as the call goes, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover in this case a kayak by its appearance.

The Kayak itself isn’t a big eye-catcher but its stable use does leave something to be desired. For its price, it’s served its customer as it should by providing a stable experience without any particularly noticeable issues I.e capsizing.

Unlike the other competitors mentioned above and beyond, it pales in comparison but is a cheap alternative for a person or family looking to indulge themselves in period kayak adventures whilst also afford themself a kayak without straining their family budget for the whole month.

Unlike the other kayaks on this list, however, this specific kayak may as well be ranked the lowest and no so much of a contender of our “Best Inflatable Kayak” rank. Not only is the air requirement for the kayak measured wrong, you almost have to pump twice the air for it to work as intended. 

Combined with sloppy instructions, the oar attached to the boat is also wimpier than it should have been and is prone to fall off more than one time if you do fancy mildly strong water bodies with this kayak.

The last cherry on top might be attributed to its paddling which seems sluggish and off for the first half but can be overcome with an iron will and some experience as well as the fact that it did come cheap so that was to be expected. 

Pros
  • Good performance
  • No noticeable issues
  • Cheap
Cons
  • Paddle feels a bit sluggish

Types of Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable Kayaks are classified into several different types or categories; each type is slightly different from another due to a variety of reasons that we will elaborate ahead. Here are some of the most popular types.

Sit-On-Top Kayaks

Sit-On-Top Kayak is one of the most famous types that come with an open design that makes it convenient for the kayakers to enter and exit. However; there is also a drawback of this open design because it’s more prone to water.

In Sit-On-Top Kayaks, water can easily come inside in various forms such as splashing. To address this issue, the manufacturers have added scupper holes in the design to get rid of extra water. Hence, scupper holes are only used in sit-on-top kayak models due to their open shape.

Sit-Inside Kayaks

As you can also assume its design from its name, the sit-inside kayaks offer a closed design in which paddlers can sit inside. Due to this closed design, the water usually doesn’t get a chance to enter inside the kayak that’s why scupper holes are not used in sit-inside models.

Water drainage related issues are only present in sit-on-top models due to their design; there is no need to worry about the absence of scupper holes while paddling in a sit-inside kayak.

Crossover Kayaks

The Crossover kayaks are specially designed to handle tough environments. Crossover kayaks feature a wide rear storage area to keep your important items dry and secure. They offer better tracking due to their unique drop-down skegs.

Whitewater Kayaks

Whitewater kayaks are designed for rocky and fast flowing areas. They are made from highly durable plastic materials that can easily absorb the toughest impacts of rocks or any other hard object on the course. Whitewater kayaks are often preferred for adventurous kayaking to prevent any damage.

Touring Kayaks

Touring kayaks are usually long and they are designed for straight courses. Touring kayaks might seem similar to sea kayaks but they only feature one sealed bulkhead located behind the paddler. Touring kayaks are ideal for beginners but they are only designed for protected bodies of water.

Sea Kayaks

Sea Kayaks are one of the most popular types that feature two sealed bulkheads. They are an excellent option for long trips or camping because they have an impressive capability to cut through harsh water waves due to their awesome aerodynamics. For sea kayaking, there is no better alternative to consider other than sea kayaks.

Best Inflatable Kayaks Buyer’s Guide:

I get a lot of questions from people about which kayak to buy and that is what I want to dedicate my blog to and also add some tips to what I have learned along the way. 

In this blog, we are going to discuss the best inflatable kayaks that you can buy right now. I have made this checklist based on my personal opinions and teeny tiny research. 

Know What to Look For When Getting Yourself One

But before we move on, let‘s discuss the buying guide as there are quite several folks for whom choosing one might be tough, so I will guide you with some tips that you need to know if you are new to the line. 

Below are some of the features that you should keep in mind while purchasing one for yourself or your loved ones. 

Lightweight: 

Weight is something that might help you out on various occasions, but on the other side, it can also slow you down. There are different types of kayaks and their weights vary accordingly.

A single or one must say a solo inflatable kayak commonly is 8 to 40 pounds and multiple people or tandem kayak ranges from 35 to 65 pounds. Whereas, a solo hard-shell kayak weighs about 40 to 70 pounds and a tandem weighs from 60 to 90 pounds. 

Carrying a lightweight kayak is rather easy than carrying a heavy-weight kayak towards your truck or car. So before you plan on getting one for you, consider this feature as it might bring convenience to you while traveling.  

Durability: 

Kayaking over white water or even a river is as if you are asking for trouble. Coming across sharp branches is pretty common. But interestingly, most of the top-notch quality inflatable kayaks these days are puncture-proof. But if you need something tougher and lighter, you will need to pay more. 

These days most of the best inflatable kayaks are made of PVC which is pretty much tear-resistant. There are other materials such as the Hypalon, which is more durable but has a very high price tag.

Almost all the inflatable kayaks are made of a combination of these two these days. One more material that is very frequently used is Nitrylon. 

It is very extremely tough but it is heavier than the rest. Despite the astonishing strength, you must not take the durability of your kayak for granted. As it could get punctured, so you should carry a repair kit every time you go out kayaking with your friends and family. 

Although these are extremely durable, one of its air chambers might get punctured thus getting you in trouble. So durability can’t be neglected at any cost.

Stability:

When you are in the open water, stability is a must thing. The stability of an inflatable kayak is somewhat equal to that of a hard-shell kayak.

Although, I have heard some paddlers debating about which one is more stable? And according to them, the inflatable kayaks are more stable on the water surface as they have a flatter and wider base than many of the hard-shell kayaks. 

So before you take out your kayak into the water, make sure that your kayak is equally inflated so it does not disturb the kayak stability on the water. Noticeably, the majority of these kayaks come with an air pump, either a hand, foot, or electric pump, which has a psi-gauge in it.

If your air pump does not have a built-in psi gauge, then you need one to ensure that the air chamber so your inflatable kayak is fully and equally inflated. 

Price Tag: 

Good things come at a premium price. There are kayaks out there in the market with a price tag below $1000. You can get a good quality kayak with such an amount that will stay by your side for a longer period. 

Conclusion:

In a nutshell, all the aforementioned kayaks are unique and versatile in their own ways be it in form of design, extra features quality to price comparison, or even the unique way of shipping (looking at you Pelican), and could easily qualify as the best inflatable kayak.

However, personally, I would recommend every seasoned kayaker who frequents this wonderful activity with his friends or family to get themselves a BOTE Deus Aero Inflatable Kayak & Stand-Up Paddle Board. Its upfront cost might seem off-putting to the average user but the number of features it provides is literally second to none. 

Its most unique aspect, need I remind you, being even in its title which is being both an inflatable kayak and stand-up paddleboard at the ease of a simple action which is removing the top layer.

It provides a strong exterior and great maneuverability adding to its already long list of strong points over its peers with the only downsides being awkwardness in the folding procedure for a first-timer and its seemingly high upfront cost but rests assured, its long-term benefit covers more than enough of its downsides. 

However, if you still want to prefer a budget kayak over the aforementioned one either because you don’t frequent this sort of thing a lot, you’re new to the scene and want to see how you like it, have no fear since Pelican kayaks have got you covered (Not shipment wise though). Sea Eagle 370 Deluxe 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Canoe w/ Paddles acts like a fine-line between good budget and good quality and is recommended to all newcomers and kayakers out there who just want to have a kayak once in a while under the blazing sun. 

It far exceeds the expectations for its price and is prone to make you a returning customer more often than not because of how durable and easy it is to maneuver with the added benefit of it not straining your monthly expenses dry.

Overall, my opinion is just one of the many opinions you might have seen online about these wonderful kayaks and I urge you to check out these wonderful kayaks for yourself and indulge yourself in this wonderful activity even if you are afforded time once in a while and make for yourself whether the kayaks mentioned above are any good or not and did they contribute in letting you experience the full joy of sailing in your small-sized ship in the vast bodies of water available across the world or just your city! 

FAQs:

How long does it take to inflate?

It doesn’t take much longer, depends upon size but remembers to not over-inflate. It would take between 15-20 minutes.

What is the general weight of the Kayak?

Generally, inflatable Kayaks are easily carried and weigh near 20-25lbs which is a lot less when compared to hard-shell Kayaks.

Are these tested before shipping?

You can go Kayaking without any worries as these Kayaks have been completely tested for resistance, impact, and pressure tested to see if they are worth your buck and after an inspection process of 48 hours is sent to you.

Is it durable?

It is very much durable and can be sued over a long time if its maintenance is done properly. Its sturdy structure is very resistant to impact or punctures so no worries there. 

Is this easy to use?

Absolutely, if there is anything to know about inflatable Kayaks it is that they are very easy it uses, all you have to do is pump them up and adjust your seats on top of them.

Sometimes you don’t even have to assemble as they come assembled from their factories, so yes it doesn’t take rocket science to put them together, don’t sweat it.

Can I stand up in a Kayak?

It’s a bit unsafe to be standing in a kayak as you can lose balance or if the water is bad you can get in an accident, remember safety first. Why would you even want to stand when the seat so comfortable? I don’t think you need to.

Can I take my kayak to the ocean?

As much we love encouraging Kayaking, it is advised not to go kayaking in the ocean because of the immense water pressure and the change of weather can ruin our chances at a safe experience let alone a good experience.

Does Salt water Damage the material of the Kayak?

No, salt water has no such effect on the material of the Kayak that it would damage it.

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