Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2025
Top 10 Best Entry Level Kayaks 2025
Are you in the market for an entry-level Keyak? Look no further! We've done the research and compiled a list of the best entry-level Keyaks on the market. We've compared features, prices, and user reviews to bring you the most comprehensive list of the top-rated entry-level Keyaks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, you'll find the perfect Keyak for your needs. Read on to find out more about the features and benefits of each Keyak and find the right one for you!
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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
- Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core
- High pressure inflation for extra rigidity and stability
- High pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
- Accessories included: 2 removable skegs, 1 floor mounted footrest, 2 fishing rod holders, detachable and adjustable GoPro & phone mount, removable & adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories
- Includes paddle, hi-output air pump, carry bag, inflatable seat booster for elevated seating, adjustable seat, grab handle on both ends
- Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear
. . .
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is an ideal solution for those looking for a kayaking experience without the hassle of a traditional vessel. It is lightweight, packs down to a transportable size, and provides plenty of stability and security on the water. Setup is easy and it can handle up to 400-450 lbs combined weight capacity. It is great value for money and perfect for anyone looking to get into kayaking.
Pros
- Lightweight and easily transportable
- Three air chambers and I-beam construction floor for stability and security
- Good performance and handling
- Short skeg design for easy turning in place
- Everything you need comes packaged together
- Setup takes about 15 minutes
- Deflation only takes a few minutes
- Can handle up to 400-450 lbs combined weight capacity
- Great value for money
Cons
- Cheap quality oars
- No adjustable features for different arm sizes
- Heavy to carry if hiking any distance
- Can be difficult to set up alone
- No storage compartments
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Limited color selection
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Stability
Tracking
Value
Durability
Setup
#3 Silver Award
Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
Love the Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak?
- 5-minute setup
- Easy-to-carry backpack system
- 21-gauge PVC construction
- Tarpaulin bottom for puncture protection
- Multiple air chambers for safety
- Double lock valves for easy inflation/deflation
- Backrest for added comfort
. . .
The Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak is a great option for those who don't have much storage space but still want to enjoy kayaking. It's lightweight, holds up to 400 pounds, and inflates and deflates quickly. It has a comfortable seat and is easy to carry. However, the paddle is small and the tracking and speed are not great. Despite this, it provides great value for money, especially for bigger folks, and is easy to set up and pack down.
Pros
- Weighs only 18 pounds and can hold up to 400 pounds
- Inflates and deflates quickly and easily
- Comfortable seat cushioning
- Simple yet effective design
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great value for money
- Sets up quickly and packs down nicely for transport
- Allows for plenty of time to enjoy nature's beauty
- Fits larger folks comfortably
- Can travel downstream with ease
Cons
- Paddle is too small compared to standard models
- Hose or pump may need to be purchased for longer trips away from shorelines
- Tracking is difficult due to balloon-like structure
- Speed is affected by design
- Drifts off course easily
- Difficult to go upstream
- Leaves behind other kayaks with traditional hard shell
- Not suitable for more experienced kayakers
- No storage compartments
- May require additional accessories
Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak Rating
8.6
Portability
Back Support
Accessories
Tracking
Speed
Value
#4 Bronze Award
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak
Love the Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak?
- Constructed of UV-protected high-density Polyethylene
- Multiple footrest positions for different size riders
- Stable flat bottom
- Adjustable padded seat back and seat pad for comfort
- Two flush mounted fishing rod holders
- One top mount fishing rod holder
- Front and rear shock cord straps
- Two 6" storage compartments in rear and center
- One paddlekeeper, one adult black paddle
- Front and rear t-handles for easy transport
- Deep hull tracking channels
- Stability chine rails
- Durable high-density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction
. . .
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak is a great option for both beginners and seasoned veterans alike, offering stability and maneuverability with its flat bottom and wide hull design. It is lightweight and easy to transport, and comes with plenty of features such as rod holders, paddle parks, and accessory mounts. Customer service is also excellent, making this an affordable yet quality vessel that will provide years of enjoyment on the water.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Excellent tracking in lakes and rivers
- Stability and maneuverability
- Optional stadium seat for comfort
- Fore and aft and port and starboard carrying handles
- Plenty of options available such as rod holders, paddle parks, accessory mounts and more
- Low price point
- Stylish look
- Ample storage space
- Lifetime Customer Service
Cons
- Not suitable for choppy waters
- Seat may be uncomfortable for long trips
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Assembly may be difficult for some
- May require additional accessories for optimal use
- May not be suitable for larger paddlers
- May not be suitable for extreme conditions
- May require additional maintenance
- May not be suitable for more experienced kayakers
- May require additional training
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak Rating
8.8
Stability
Tracking
Weight
Features
Comfort
Style
#5 Runners Up
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
- Specifically designed for kids ages 5 and up
- 130 LB weight capacity
- Lightweight 18 Lb. design with molded finger handles on each side for easy transport
- Sloped at the end with a swim-up step allowing rider to easily re-enter the kayak from the water
- Constructed of High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durabilty
- Multiple footrest positions for different size riders
- Backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
. . .
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is the perfect choice for introducing kids to kayaking, with its lightweight design, easy maneuverability, and wide hull making it stable and difficult to capsize. It features plenty of storage options and a two-piece paddle with an aluminum shaft for comfortable gripping. It also looks great with its bright colors and sleek lines, and has a 120 pound weight capacity rating for long-term use.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Wide hull and low center of gravity for excellent stability
- Plenty of storage options
- Two piece paddle with aluminum shaft
- Bright colors and sleek lines
- 120 pound weight capacity rating
- Great starter vessel for budding young adventurers
- Safe yet fun while learning how to paddle
- Exploring nature up close and personal
Cons
- Seat cushion and paddle leash sold separately
- Not suitable for more experienced kayakers
- Not suitable for larger bodies of water
- No footrests for smaller paddlers
- No rudder or skeg for directional control
- Not suitable for rough water conditions
- No built-in fishing rod holders
- No built-in cup holders
- No built-in storage compartments
- No built-in carry handles
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak Rating
9.4
Lightweight
Stable
Storage
Paddle
Design
Durability
- Ergonomic Cockpit Design Enhances Balance and Motor Skills
- Molded finger handles on each side of the kayak
- Reverse chine for enhanced stability with swim-up step
- Lightweight 18 lb. Design
- 130 lb. Weight Capacity
- Recommended for Ages 5 and Up with Adult Supervision
- Paddle Included
. . .
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is a great choice for young children and beginners, featuring a lightweight design with a 125-pound weight capacity, rugged plastic construction, bright colors, wide cockpit area, adjustable footrests, and comfortable seating areas. It's easy to maneuver and carry, and provides plenty of storage space for snacks and fishing gear. It's perfect for creating memories with friends and family!
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver
- Surprisingly durable and tough
- 125-pound weight capacity
- Bright colors make it more visible on open waters
- Wide cockpit area provides security
- User friendly design with adjustable footrests and comfortable seating
- Weighs only 25 pounds, making it easy to carry
- Bungee cords for extra storage space
- High quality materials
- Great for first time users or experienced adventurers
Cons
- Not suitable for larger adults
- Storage space is limited
- No seatback for extra comfort
- Can be difficult to maneuver in strong currents
- Not suitable for extreme whitewater conditions
- No paddle included
- Not as stable as larger kayaks
- No built-in dry storage
- Not suitable for overnight trips
- No built-in cup holders
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak Rating
9.2
Durability
Weight
Design
Stability
Visibility
Storage
#8 Runners Up
Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak
Love the Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak?
- Multi chine flat bottom hull for stability
- Measures 9'6"" and weighs 44 lb for easy transport and storage
- Made using patented Ram-X materials for durability
- Comes with ExoPak removable storage compartment
- Additional flotation inside the hull to meet or surpass ABYC Standards
- Maximum capacity of 275 lb
. . .
The Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak is a great choice for outdoor exploration, offering a balance of stability, maneuverability and portability. It is lightweight and tracks straight across open water, and is comfortable to use thanks to adjustable foot pegs and a comfortable seating position. It is an affordable option for those just getting into kayaking, and is suitable for calmer waters such as lakes or bays. It is also great for taking furry friends along too.
Pros
- Excellent balance of stability, maneuverability, and portability in a lightweight package
- Adjustable foot pegs and comfortable seating position
- Tracks straight across open water
- Glides quickly through the water without too much effort
- Affordable price point
- Excellent comfort levels
- Moves decently despite being relatively lightweight
- Great for leisurely exploration
- Light weight makes transporting easy
- Offers enough stability for even novice users
Cons
- Seat sits in a non-draining well
- Molded areas of the deck that capture and retain water
- Inadequate seatback providing little support
- Low freeboard height
- Grip points could be improved
Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Maneuverability
Portability
Tracking
Comfort
Price
- Ergonomic cockpit design
- Molded finger handles on each side of the kayak
- Reverse chine for enhanced stability with swim-up step
- Lightweight 18 lb. design
- 130 lb. weight capacity
- Recommended for ages 5 and up with adult supervision
- Paddle included
. . .
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is an ideal choice for young kayakers, offering a great balance of stability and maneuverability. It is lightweight, durable, and features bright colors that kids will love. It also has two built-in cup holders and a flat bottom hull for added safety. Constructed with advanced rotomolding technology, this kayak is corrosion resistant and designed to last season after season.
Pros
- Lightweight yet durable
- Bright colors
- Easy to transport
- Compact size
- Room for supplies
- Designed with safety in mind
- Low center of gravity
- Lightweight construction
- Lifetime quality
- High-density polyethylene walls
- Corrosion resistant components
Cons
- Limited storage space
- Not suitable for larger paddlers
- Not suitable for rougher waters
- Limited speed
- Costly accessories
- Difficult to turn quickly
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Durability
Portability
Safety
Design
Value
#10 Runners Up
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak
Love the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak?
- Constructed of High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durability
- Molded Finger Handles on each side of kayak for easy transport to and from the water
- Swim-Up step allows rider to easily re-enter kayak from the water
- Lightweight, 18 Lb Design, with 130 Lb Capacity; Designed for children 5 and up
- Reverse Chine for enhanced stability
- Backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
. . .
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is an excellent choice for novice kayakers, providing great performance at an unbeatable price point. Its lightweight construction and intuitive design make it easy to maneuver, and its reinforced plastic hull material ensures durability and longevity. It is suitable for adults up to 130 lbs and can be carried by kids of all sizes. No extra parts are required for assembly, making it a great choice for those looking for an entry level kayak.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Bright orange color for easy visibility
- Intuitive design for easy maneuverability
- Reinforced plastic hull for durability
- No extra parts required for assembly
- Unbeatable price point
- Great performance
- Suitable for rough terrain and choppy waters
- Perfect for introducing children to the sport
- Peace of mind knowing that it won't need replacing soon
Cons
- Not suitable for adults over 130 lbs
- Not suitable for experienced kayakers
- Not suitable for long-distance trips
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
- Not suitable for whitewater rapids
- Does not include a paddle
- Does not include a life jacket
- Does not include a storage bag
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak Rating
9
