Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2024
Top 10 Best One Person Kayaks 2024
Are you in the market for a One Person Keyak? With so many models available, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. That's why we've put together a comprehensive list of the top rated One Person Keyaks, so you can make an informed decision. Our list includes models from a variety of price points and features, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Read on to find out more about the best One Person Keyaks on the market.
Share on:
#1 Platinum 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
#2 Gold Award
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
#3 Silver Award
Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak
Love the Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak?
- Additional storage with front hatch and rear tank well
- Shallow V-chine hull for better manoeuverability and tracking
- Floating blocks on each side for safety
- Adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest with ERGOBASE seat cushion
- Made with durable high molecular density polyethylene
- Lightweight at 10 ft and 36 lb
- Cockpit table with compartments and bottle holder
- Molded footrests for comfort
. . .
The Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak is a great choice for novice and intermediate kayakers, weighing only 36 pounds and featuring adjustable footrests for different leg lengths. It is maneuverable, tracks well, and is surprisingly responsive. It is also easy to transport and launch from any beach or shoreline, and ordering through Amazon yields quick results. We highly recommend this kayak for those looking for an affordable way to get into recreational paddling activities.
Pros
- Lightweight at just 36 pounds
- Novice kayakers can quickly become comfortable with the kayak
- Bright yellow color
- Maneuverable
- Tracks well, moves fast, and is surprisingly responsive
- Footrests are adjustable for different leg lengths
- Quick delivery through Amazon
- Affordable
- Durable
- Plenty of room inside
Cons
- May not be as stable as heavier flat bottomed sit-on-top models
- Overweight users may struggle more when trying to enter or exit the cockpit area
- Lower center of gravity compared to traditional sit-on top models
- Not suitable for long trips away from home
- Requires practice to become comfortable
- Not suitable for deep waters
- Not suitable for experienced veterans
- Requires additional equipment for cold weather
- May require additional practice to become comfortable with maneuverability
- Limited storage space
Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak Rating
8.6
Maneuverability
Stability
Weight
Comfort
Durability
Price
- 5-minute setup
- Easy-to-carry backpack system
- 24-gauge PVC construction
- Tarpaulin bottom and polyester cover
- Multiple air chambers
- Double Lock valves
- Spray covers
. . .
The Sevylor Quikpak K5 Kayak is an innovative and lightweight inflatable kayak that comes with a backpack-style carrying case and an integrated “apron” for added comfort and protection from the sun. It is stable enough to handle moderate currents and provides plenty of legroom for taller paddlers. When it comes time for storage or transport, the Quikpak K5 shines with its ingenious design, allowing access to both sides for easy drying and improved tracking while paddling. It is perfect for those who want an affordable way into recreational kayaking without sacrificing too much performance or stability.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Integrated apron for added comfort and protection
- Stable and can handle moderate currents
- Plenty of legroom
- Innovative and cleverly designed
- Backpack-style carrying case for portability
- Easy to store and transport
- Affordable way into recreational kayaking
- 15 minutes from unpacking until hitting open waters
- Cutting down the skeg improves tracking
Cons
- Not a fast boat
- Included paddle is flimsy
- Low profile design can lead to rolling out of the cockpit
- Not ideal for large bodies of water
- 240 cm paddle recommended for those under 5'2"
- Not as durable as other models
- Can be difficult to maneuver in windy conditions
- Can be tricky to inflate and deflate
- Not designed for whitewater or heavy surf
- No built-in storage or pockets
Sevylor Quikpak K5 Kayak Rating
8.6
Portability
Stability
Tracking
Durability
Comfort
Value
#5 Runners Up
Pelican Argo 100X Sit-in Kayak
Love the Pelican Argo 100X Sit-in Kayak?
- Twin-arched multi-chine hull for excellent stability
- Additional floatation for safety and peace of mind
- Maximum weight capacity of 275 lb
- Made of durable high molecular weight polyethylene
- Patented RAM-X material for high-impact resistance
- Adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest with seat cushion for comfort
. . .
The Pelican Argo 100X Sit-in Kayak is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable kayaking experience. It is lightweight and maneuverable, with adjustable footrests, comfortable seat and plenty of storage space. It also has a low profile design to reduce drag, molded-in footrests for comfort, and two compartments for storing gear. It is perfect for recreational use or fishing trips, and is highly recommended for its quality performance and comfortability.
Pros
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Adjustable footrests for comfort
- Plenty of storage space
- Low profile design reduces drag
- Large open seating area
- Two compartments for gear
- Affordable
- Ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike
Cons
- No rudder system
- No anchor system
- No spray skirt included
- No adjustable backrest
- Limited color options
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Not self-bailing
Pelican Argo 100X Sit-in Kayak Rating
9.4
Portability
Stability
Comfort
Storage
Design
Value
#6 Runners Up
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
#7 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
#8 Runners Up
Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak
Love the Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak?
- Multi-chine flat bottom hull offers excellent stability
- Adjustable ERGOFIT G2 seating system with thicker ergonomic padding
- Unique manufacturing process allows for additional flotation
- Made with durable high molecular density polyethylene
- Lightweight at 10 ft and 50 lb
. . .
The Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak is an impressive and affordable watercraft that offers excellent features and performance. It is lightweight yet sturdy, and provides comfortable seating with adjustable padded backrest and molded footwells. It is great for fishing in all conditions, with two large cargo hatches, four bungee cords, and two rod holders mounted on either side. It also has a built in paddle holder for convenience.
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Stable enough for standing up and casting
- Excellent tracking
- Plenty of storage options
- Adjustable padded backrest
- Molded footwells
- Built in paddle holder
- Affordable
- Reliable fishing companion
- Exploring lakes and rivers
Cons
- Difficulty making tight turns
- Rods may slip out during transit or use
- Not suitable for extreme conditions
- Limited storage capacity
- Not suitable for long distance paddling
- Some assembly required
- Limited maneuverability
- May require additional accessories
Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak Rating
8.6
Stability
Tracking
Storage
Comfort
Price
Durability
#9 Runners Up
Pelican Sprint XR Sit-in Kayak
Love the Pelican Sprint XR Sit-in Kayak?
- Deep V-chine hull and 12-foot-long design for increased secondary stability and better tracking
- Adjustable ERGOFLEX G2 seating system for extra back support and breathable cushion
- Stern bulkhead for extra floatation and bailing out water
- Foam blocks on each side of the kayak for safety and peace of mind
- Made of durable high molecular weight polyethylene and weighs only 41 lb
. . .
The Pelican Sprint XR Sit-in Kayak is an ideal choice for beginner and experienced kayakers alike. It's lightweight, stable design makes it easy to maneuver, and it's V shape hull provides great stability even in choppy conditions. It also comes equipped with plenty of useful features such as multiple storage compartments and two bottle holders. Overall, this model is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable craft that won't break the bank.
Pros
- Lightweight and stable design
- Easy to transport and store
- Comfortable seat that can be adjusted to fit any size user
- Relatively low price tag
- Hull provides great stability while still cutting through the water with ease
- Multiple storage compartments
- Two bottle holders mounted onto either side
- Handles choppier conditions well
- Ideal for beginner and experienced paddlers alike
- Keel helps it stay on course even when faced with wind or small waves
Cons
- No built-in paddle holders included
- Storage compartments may be hard to reach for some users
- May be too heavy for some users to transport
- Not suitable for larger bodies of water
- No built-in rudder or tracking system
- Can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance
- Seat may be uncomfortable for some users
- Can be affected by strong winds
- May require additional maintenance over time
Pelican Sprint XR Sit-in Kayak Rating
8.6
Stability
Design
Storage
Price
Performance
Features
- Constructed of UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Versatile Design Allows for Solo or Tandem Paddling
- Two Adjustable Quick Release Seat Backs for Comfort
- Multiple Footrest Positions for Different Size Paddlers
- One Hatch for Added Storage Beneath the Deck
. . .
The Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the great outdoors on a budget. Constructed of durable polyethylene and featuring a wide 36” hull, it can easily accommodate two adults or one adult with a child and all their gear. Weighing in at 77 pounds, it may be challenging to transport alone but two people should have no problem. It has quality craftsmanship, cup holders for each seat, storage compartments, and is maneuverable even when rowing solo. It is also stable out on open waters and can handle just about anything thrown at it without fear of tipping over.
Pros
- Constructed of durable polyethylene
- Generous weight capacity of 425 pounds
- Good maneuverability even when rowing solo
- Stable out on open waters
- Cup holders for each seat
- Storage compartments underneath both seats
- Affordable
- Reliable
- Ample storage options
- Sturdy vessel
Cons
- Challenging to transport alone
- Lack of cushioning in the seating area
- Storage compartments not blocked off
- Not suitable for long excursions without extra padding
- Two rowers needed to increase speed significantly
Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak Rating
8.4
