Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2025
Top 10 Best River Kayaks 2025
Are you looking for the best River Keyaks? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll be comparing the top River Keyaks on the market today. We'll be looking at the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each model, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. So, let's dive in and explore the best River Keyaks available!
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#1 Platinum Award
Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
Love the Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak?
- Adjustable inflatable seat with backrest
- Cockpit designed for comfort and space
- Maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds
- Removable skeg for directional stability
- Bright yellow color for visibility
- Made for smaller bodies of water
. . .
The Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak is an affordable and convenient option for those looking to explore waterways. Setup is quick and easy and the quality of materials used is impressive for its price point. Tracking can be difficult without the included skeg, and paddle length could be improved, but overall performance is admirable and it's an incredible value buy.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup
- Convenient and easy to transport
- High quality materials for an affordable price
- Plenty of room for two adults
- Includes plastic skeg for improved tracking
- Sturdy despite shorter paddles
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Paddle length could be improved
- Sharp seams can cause cuts
- Difficult to track without skeg
- Splashing water into boat with extended paddling
- Not suitable for larger bodies of water
Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak Rating
9
Setup
Convenience
Quality
Room
Tracking
Paddle
#2 Gold Award
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak
Love the Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak?
- Holds 2 people up to 400 pounds
- Designed for speed and agility in the water
- Tough vinyl construction for adventuring
- Easy to handle in and out of the water
- Includes inflatable seats with backrests, 2 dry bags, and a carry bag
. . .
The Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak is a great choice for recreational paddling, fishing, and hunting, and assembles and disassembles easily. It is stable and portable, but can be affected by wind and currents, and is prone to punctures. It is recommended to carry Flex Tape for temporary repairs, and to invest in a longer paddle.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Lightweight and portable
- Stable and difficult to flip over
- Fast inflation and deflation times
- Maneuverable
- Five-chamber design system prevents sinking
- Excellent value for money
- Resistant to punctures
Cons
- High profile can be redirected by wind
- Currents can cause drag and spin unexpectedly
- Included paddle is often too short
- Punctures are common near rocks and sticks
- Getting in and out of the boat will likely leave you with wet feet
- Racing against rigid hull boats is impossible
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Stability
Speed
Durability
Maneuverability
Paddle Length
#3 Silver Award
Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak
Love the Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak?
- 2 Person Kayak
- Front & Rear Rocker Profile
- Foldable & Inflates Fully in 9 Mins
- Seats 2 Adults (600lbs max)
- High-Pressure Dropstitch Floor
- Reinforced Double Layered PVC Construction
- Removable Tracking Fin
- Can Handle Class III & IV Rapids
- 8 Self-Bailing Ports
- Ample Tie-Down Points
- Front Action Camera Mount
. . .
The Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak is a great choice for those looking for an inflatable tandem kayak that can handle a variety of conditions. It is lightweight and rigid, with a single layer side bladder, drop stitch floor and removable keel. It also comes with paddles that break down into four parts, a pump and two life vests (vests not included). Setup time is significantly reduced and it is perfect for use in surf or whitewater.
Pros
- Lightweight and rigid enough to tackle whitewater or surf with ease
- Single layer side bladders are made from airtight fabric
- Drop stitch floor provides rigidity similar to an inflatable SUP board
- Removable keel and self-draining design
- Paddles that break down into four parts
- Included backpack, pump, and two life vests
- Significantly reduced setup time
- Advanced engineering features
- Perfect for use in surf or whitewater
- Convenient for a fun day on flat water
Cons
- Life vests not included
- May fill with water if not properly drained
- May require extra inflation in hot or sunny conditions
- May not be suitable for extreme whitewater conditions
- May not be suitable for large waves
- May not be suitable for long-distance paddling
- May require additional accessories for certain conditions
- May require additional maintenance over time
- May not be suitable for larger paddlers
- May not be suitable for extreme cold conditions
Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak Rating
9.2
Design
Durability
Portability
Performance
Setup Time
Versatility
#4 Bronze Award
Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak
Love the Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak?
- 1 Person Kayak
- Adjustable EVA Padded Seat with High Back Support
- Adjustable Aluminum Kayak Paddle with Ergonomic Grip
- Removable/Adjustable Foot Rest
- 8 Self-Bailing Ports
- Ample Tie-Down Points
- Front Action Camera Mount
- Removable Tracking Fin
- Spacious Travel Backpack for All Included Kayaking Equipment
. . .
The Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak is an incredibly versatile kayak that is lightweight and easy to transport. It features advanced drop-stitch floor technology for superior rigidity and tracking capabilities, and its self-draining capabilities make it suitable for both flatwater paddling and whitewater rapids. Setup time is greatly reduced compared to older models, and the included dual direction pump allows users to quickly get their boat inflated. This kayak is perfect for taking on camping trips or flying with you to remote locations.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Advanced drop-stitch floor technology
- Self-draining capabilities
- Removable keel for superior tracking
- Quick assembly instructions
- Minimal parts required for setup
- Dual direction pump for quick inflation
- Compact backpack for easy transportation
- Ideal for flatwater paddling and whitewater rapids
- Perfect for camping trips and remote locations
Cons
- Costly compared to other inflatables
- Not suitable for larger bodies of water
- May require additional accessories for full functionality
- Not as fast as traditional hardshell kayaks
- Not designed for high-speed racing
- May require extra effort to stay on course
- May require extra effort to stay upright in choppy waters
- May require extra effort to maneuver in tight spaces
- May require extra effort to keep from tipping in strong winds
- May require extra effort to keep from drifting in strong currents
Driftsun Rover Inflatable Tandem Kayak Rating
9.2
Portability
Rigidity
Tracking
Weight
Surfability
Setup Time
#5 Runners Up
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak
Love the Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak?
- Made in USA
- Optimized and elevated seating console
- Frame seat folds and is removable
- Large bow and stern tank wells provide ample storage for crates and fishing gear
- 2 double-barrel rod holders can accommodate up to 4 fishing rods
- 3 solo mount recesses enable you to easily add mounts & accessory holders (sold separately) without drilling
- Molded-in trays and cup holders keep important items and refreshments within easy reach
- Length: 11' 6"
- Width: 35"
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Max Capacity: 425 lbs
- Two Integrated, dual fishing rod holders for hands-free storage
- Self draining scupper holes in the footwell to keep you dry (scupper plugs not included)
- Water Types: Lakes & Ponds, Slow-Moving Rivers & Calm Coastal
. . .
The Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for anglers looking for an all-day fishing experience. It offers great stability while standing up, has plenty of storage space, and is even compatible with a trolling motor. It can be difficult to transport due to its size and weight, but overall it is a great product that lives up to expectations.
Pros
- Stability when standing up and fishing
- Maneuverability
- Plenty of room on the deck
- Enough storage space to fit camping gear
- Paddles well despite its size and weight
- Trolling motor compatible
- YakAttack RotoGrip Paddle Holder
- Accommodates larger individuals comfortably
- Tracks well through slightly fast water
- Handles like a barge when turning
Cons
- Difficult to transport due to its size and weight
- Paddle holder located near the front of the boat can get in the way
- Minor scuffs from shipping
- Requires planning ahead of time
- Barge-like turning
- Heavy and bulky
- Elbow grease required to remove scuffs
- Need help to load it
- Takes time to get set up with a trolling motor
- Can be expensive
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Maneuverability
Storage
Transport
Paddle Holder
Cosmetics
#6 Runners Up
Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak
Love the Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak?
- 22-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Airtight System is guaranteed not to leak
- Mini Double Lock and Double Lock valves use two locking points for easy inflation/deflation
- Spray covers block splashes to help keep you dry
- Fits one to two people (removable middle seat)
- NMMA certified to hold up to 400 lbs.
. . .
The Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak is an affordable and reliable inflatable kayak, weighing in at 25 pounds and featuring a wide hull design for stability and maneuverability. It is suitable for recreational use on calm waters such as lakes and slow-moving rivers, and comes with a durable PVC construction and multiple air chambers for puncture resistance. It includes a foot pump for easy inflation, but users may need to invest in better oars than those included. It provides good stability on calm waters but may not be suitable for more turbulent conditions. Additional items like coolers and dry sacks may be necessary for comfortability during long trips, and splash guards can be added for protection against splashing.
Pros
- Lightweight at 25 pounds
- Wide hull design for stability and maneuverability
- Two adjustable seats
- Durable PVC construction
- Multiple air chambers for extra buoyancy
- Inflates quickly with foot pump
- Handles well on calm waters
- Stable on turbulent waters
- Affordable
- Ideal for recreational use
Cons
- Inflation with valve provided can be challenging
- Not suitable for more turbulent conditions such as rapids or windy lakes due to its lightweight build
- Oars included tend to move around while paddling and soak you up with water
- Not enough back support from either seat
- Splash guards not included
- Not suitable for long trips
- Not suitable for fishing excursions
- Not suitable for rougher waters
- Not suitable for long distance paddling
- Not suitable for heavy loads
Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak Rating
7.8
Durability
Maneuverability
Inflation
Performance
Comfort
Value
#7 Runners Up
Oru Kayak Foldable Inlet Kayak
Love the Oru Kayak Foldable Inlet Kayak?
- Portable folding design
- Set up in under 5 minutes
- Sleek, durable and reliable
- No roof rack required
- Lightweight at 20 lbs
. . .
The Oru Kayak Foldable Inlet Kayak is a lightweight, easy-to-assemble kayak that offers great performance on the water. It tracks smoothly and is perfect for those who don't have access to large storage spaces or transportation vehicles. It may require an additional cushion for comfort, but its combination of convenience and quality make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy their time outdoors without the hassle of owning a boat.
Pros
- Lightweight frame
- Easy assembly and disassembly
- Smooth and responsive tracking
- Compatible with standard kayak paddles
- Portable and easy to store away
- Stable on calm waters
- Great for shorter or longer trips
- No need for bulky roof racks
- High performing craft
- No heavy lifting required
Cons
- Thin hard seat cushion
- Not enough elevation for comfortable paddling position
- No included paddle
- Not suitable for rougher waters
- Supplemental cushion required for longer trips
- No storage compartment
- Expensive
- Not suitable for larger paddlers
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
- Difficult to transport in smaller vehicles
Oru Kayak Foldable Inlet Kayak Rating
8.2
Portability
Stability
Speed
Assembly
Comfort
Paddle
#8 Runners Up
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak
Love the BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak?
- Extra space to fit 3 people
- Fully loaded accessories
- Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material
- Built-in fishing rod holders
- Water resistant storage
. . .
The BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to get out on the water with friends and family. It is constructed from durable materials and has a hull design optimized for stability in both calm and choppy waters. It comes with multiple storage compartments, a wheeled cart system for easy transportation, adjustable foot braces, and a trimaran style hull shape for excellent maneuverability. All in all, it is a reliable and budget-friendly tandem fishing kayak that is worth considering.
Pros
- Constructed from durable materials
- Hull design optimized for stability
- Multiple storage compartments
- Weighs under 90 pounds when fully loaded
- Comes with wheeled cart for easy transportation
- Lightweight construction and built-in handles for easy launching and retrieving
- Excellent maneuverability
- Adjustable foot braces for optimal seating
- Reliable and won't break the budget
- Plenty of space onboard
Cons
- Not suitable for solo use
- Not as fast as some other models
- Not as much storage space as some other models
- Can be difficult to transport on smaller vehicles
- Not ideal for larger bodies of water
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance
- May require some assembly
- Can be difficult to maneuver in strong winds
- May require additional maintenance
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Durability
Stability
Storage
Transport
Maneuverability
Comfort
#9 Runners Up
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Love the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak?
- Rigid Dropstitch Floor
- Front Bow Spray Shield
- Seven (7) Hard Mounting Points for Rod Holders, Fish Finder, Bait Tray, etc.
- Halkey Roberts Locking Valves
- Ample Bow and Stern Storage
. . .
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the waterways. It is lightweight and portable, making it great for camping trips, and features welded seams and heavy-duty PVC construction that can handle shallow water with debris and rough waters with ease. It is surprisingly stable, and while it does have a couple of downsides, they are minor and can be easily fixed. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an easy way to get on and off their favorite lakes or rivers.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Durable PVC construction
- Stable design
- Suitable for all types of water conditions
- Easy to inflate/deflate
- Replacement parts available
- Perfect for camping trips and outdoor excursions
- Can stand up in the kayak
Cons
- Paddle provided is too short
- Two pieces must be attached when inflating/deflating
- Hose may crack over time
- Can be wobbly when paddling
- More expensive than other kayaks
- Not suitable for long-distance travel
- Difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Durability
Stability
Paddle size
Inflation/Deflation
Replacement parts
#10 Runners Up
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Love the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak?
- Solid drop stitch floor for a solid bait-casting position
- Especially designed for fishing with front bungee storage and multiple universal hard mounting points
- Rough build to last rough waters with 1000D Reinforced Layered PVC
- Stress-free setup and storage with dual-action hand pump and travel bag
- 1 Year Guarantee on materials, workmanship, and assembly + 30 Day No Hassle Returns
. . .
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is a great choice for avid anglers, offering a reliable and durable experience with its sturdy construction and inflatable design. It is stable enough to allow one to stand up in it, and is easy to transport despite weighing 40 lbs. However, the paddle provided by Elkton Outdoors is too short for comfortable use and the dual action pump can be difficult to attach. We recommend investing in this product, but make sure you have all the necessary accessories before hitting the open waters.
Pros
- Durable and reliable
- Sturdy construction
- Inflatable design
- Stable enough to stand up in
- Easy to transport
- Can handle choppy waters
- Can maneuver through tight spaces
- Can handle strong winds
- Weighs only 40 lbs.
- Dual action pump included in package
Cons
- Paddle provided is too short
- Slight waddling effect when paddling
- Dual action pump can be difficult to attach
- Dual action pump cracked after only four uses
- Additional accessories may be needed
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak Rating
8.8
