#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
Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak

Love the Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak?
- 2 person/ 500-lb capacity
- Weighs 26-lbs
- Suitable for up to Class III whitewater
- Includes SE330 Sport Kayak, 2 AB30 paddles, 2 inflatable movable & removable SEC seats, foot pump, repair kit, and carry bag with convenient shoulder strap
- Lashed down inflatable spray skirts with storage underneath
- Open and close drain valve with 5 deluxe 1-way inflation and deflation valves
- 2 skegs on the bottom for better tracking & speed
- Inflated measurements: 17" wide x 21" deep x 16" tall
- Inflated seat base measurements: 17" wide x 12" deep x 1" high
- Inflated backrest measurements: 17" wide x 13" high x 3" thick
- Deflated folded measurements: 15" x 12" x 1/2"
- Weighs: 1.7 lbs.
. . .
The Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak is an affordable and reliable option for both novice and experienced paddlers alike. It is lightweight, easy to transport, and comes with two permanently attached skegs for stability and tracking. It is designed for two people but can fit one comfortably, and the included foot pump makes inflation quick and easy. The boat is sturdy and constructed with heavy-duty material, and it offers excellent maneuverability and ample storage space. All in all, it is an enjoyable experience out on open waters without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Two permanently attached skegs
- Includes foot pump for quick inflation
- Designed for two people but can fit one
- Narrow width for stability and quick turning
- Ergonomically designed seats for comfort
- Spray skirts for face protection
- Sturdy construction material
- Excellent maneuverability
- Ample storage space
Cons
- Not suitable for larger paddlers
- Skegs may get stuck in shallow waters
- Foot pump can be difficult to use
- Seats may not be comfortable for long trips
- Not suitable for white-water rafting
- Not as durable as some other kayaks
- Can be difficult to transport in smaller cars
- May require additional inflation accessories
- Can be unstable in choppy waters
- May require some maintenance over time
Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak Rating
8.2
Portability
Stability
Comfort
Durability
Maneuverability
Storage
#4 Bronze Award
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak

Love the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak?
- 18-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Designed for use on lakes
- High-quality materials for maximum durability
. . .
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for both experienced and novice kayakers, offering plenty of features such as storage pockets, paddle holders, rod holders, detachable rudder and Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation. It is constructed with tough outer fabric and reinforced PVC bottom for increased durability, and the included inflatable seats provide good back support. Performance is excellent with good maneuverability and tracking, however caution should be taken in strong winds or currents. The only downside is the positioning of the rod holders which can catch onto paddles during use, so it is recommended to remove them.
Pros
- Tough outer fabric helps protect against punctures and tears
- Reinforced PVC bottom offers increased durability in rocky or shallow waters
- Inflatable seats provide good back support without adding too much bulk or weight
- Light weight and streamlined shape for excellent maneuverability
- Plenty of storage pockets, paddle holders, rod holders, detachable rudder and Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation
- Rated as a two person unit
- Affordable yet reliable way to explore lakes & rivers
- Ideal option for both experienced and novice kayakers alike
- Great value
- Everything you need to get started on your next adventure
Cons
- Can be difficult to control when faced with strong winds or currents
- Rod holders can easily catch onto paddles during use
- Comfort levels may be compromised if two adults are using the kayak
- Positioning of the rod holders can cause annoyance or potential injury
- Removing the rod holders will sacrifice their intended purpose
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Durability
Maneuverability
Storage
Comfort
Wind/Current
Rod Holders
#5 Runners Up
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
#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
Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak

Love the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak?
- Inflates quickly in less than 5 minutes with the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump
- Compact and maneuverable when deflated for transport, measuring only 26”(L) x 16”(W) x 8”(H)
- Durable design with heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom, double threaded Boston valves, and tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover
- Superior performance with rocker profile and pointed nose entry (bow), removable deep fin for responsive tracking, and high quality EVA padded seats for high-back support
- Everything included - Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Tandem Kayak, (2) Adjustable EVA padded seats, (2) Aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, Deluxe double action hand pump, Rear tracking fin, and Travel bag
. . .
The Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is an exceptional product that offers a great value for the money. It's easy to setup and take down, making it perfect for those who don't want to be weighed down by bulky kayaks or canoes. It's incredibly light weight and portable, with padded seats that are surprisingly comfortable and a spacious interior that can fit two adults (or one adult plus a pet) along with gear. It also inflates and deflates quickly and easily, and is safe to use with a 60 lb pet. Overall, it's an affordable and reliable inflatable kayak that won't disappoint.
Pros
- Easy to setup and take down
- Durable fabric cover and thick rubber-like hull
- Light weight and portable
- Padded seats that are surprisingly comfortable
- Spacious interior
- Deep cavity in front for storage
- Side pontoons with zippers for small items
- Inflates and deflates quickly and easily
- Excellent customer service
- Safe for pets
Cons
- Ink or dye used for the seats not waterproof
- Missing glue from repair kit
- Thinner than most inflatable kayaks on the market
- Seats may stain clothing black at the bottom
- Not as much storage space as some other kayaks
- Not ideal for larger adults
- Pump not included
- Not as fast or maneuverable as a hard-shell kayak
- Repair kit not included
- Not ideal for whitewater rapids
Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak Rating
8.6
Portability
Durability
Comfort
Storage
Inflation
Safety
#8 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
#9 Runners Up
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak

Love the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak?
- Built-in aluminum ribs for improved tracking
- Three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance
- Folded size 35 X 21 X 12 inches
- Max Weight-550 pounds
- Weight-52 pounds
- Pre-assembled at the factory
- High support, adjustable padded seats
- Three seat locations for solo or tandem paddling
- Optional Deck with Honey Comb Rip Stop Fabric
. . .
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak is a great choice for novice and experienced paddlers alike, with its durable construction, easy setup, and great stability and tracking performance. It features comfortable seats that may require extra padding for longer trips, and inflation is quick and easy with a low inflation pressure requirement. Assembly is straightforward, though instructions may not always be clear.
Pros
- Durable materials, including heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin fabric, aluminum ribs, and plastic welded seams.
- Stable on the water with primary and secondary stability features.
- Excellent tracking performance.
- Easy setup and inflation.
- Comfortable seats with secure buckle straps.
- Low inflation pressure requirement (only 1-2 psi).
- Assembly takes just 10 minutes.
- Instructions are clear.
Cons
- Seats could use extra padding.
- Seats can become uncomfortable after about an hour.
- Rear seat touches up against the back ring of the kayak.
- Instructions aren't always clear when attaching/detaching pumps.
- Twisting valves requires fingers instead of grabbing them directly.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak Rating
8.8
Durability
Stability
Tracking
Seats
Setup
Instructions
#10 Runners Up
Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak

Love the Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak?
- Versatile design allows for solo or tandem paddling
- 10-foot compact length for easy transport and storage
- 3 fishing rod holders
- Rear storage hatch
- Stable hull design with a weight capacity of 500 lb.
- 5-year limited warranty
. . .
The Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to take their family or friends out on the water. It is incredibly stable, even when loaded with three people, and features adjustable footrests for added comfort. It is also light enough for two people to carry and has plenty of storage space for your gear. Additionally, it is very affordable compared to other tandem models on the market.
Pros
- Incredibly stable
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Plenty of room and features for fishing trips
- Adjustable footrests for comfort
- Plenty of storage compartments
- Portable and easy to launch
- Affordable compared to other tandem models
- Ideal for families who love spending time outdoors
Cons
- May be too large to fit into a car trunk
- Weighs around 65 pounds
- Seats may be uncomfortable for long trips
- Not suitable for white water kayaking
- Not the most durable material
- May require additional accessories
- Can be difficult to maneuver
- May require two people to carry it
- Not designed for heavy loads
Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak Rating
7.8