Top 10 Best Lightweight Kayaks [2023 Reviews] — Adventure In You

The finest light-weight kayaks are going to be completely different for everybody, however one factor is for certain – one of the best light-weight kayak would be the one which fits your particular wants and way of life. Are you in search of one thing inflatable that performs like a tough shell? Or possibly you’re on the hunt for a fishing kayak with all the newest bells and whistles. 

Whatever your preferences, enterprise is booming within the light-weight kayak business and it is best to have the ability to discover a lighter mannequin for virtually each kind of kayak. 

Deciding on a kayak isn’t simple, and even for those who’ve narrowed in on wanting a light-weight design, there are nonetheless quite a few choices to select from.

In this text, you’ll get a full rundown on our picks for the ten finest light-weight kayaks, together with different elements that you could be wish to take into account earlier than your buy.

Quick Answer: Best Lightweight Kayaks

Why Choose a Lightweight Kayak?

Lightweight kayaks are extremely wanted for a couple of key causes. 

They are a lot simpler to load and unload, particularly if you’re paddling solo. Oftentimes, you gained’t even want a roof rack to move your light-weight kayak. 

They are typically much less cumbersome, and lots of variations might be deflated or folded right into a compact provider. This makes them simple to retailer, even for individuals who reside in small areas. 

If you’re hoping to maintain a quick tempo whereas paddling, light-weight kayaks are normally simpler to rise up to hurry than their heavier counterparts (and simpler to tip again over for those who take a spill).

The backside line is that light-weight kayaks are simpler to hold, retailer, and rise up to hurry. This will prevent time and power in your time on the water, and provide the freedom to take your kayak anyplace. 

10 Best Lightweight Kayaks For All Adventures

Check out our spherical up of the ten finest light-weight kayaks to take in your subsequent journey.

SuperiorFrame Inflatable Kayak

Weight: 36lbs | Length: 10’5″| Width: 32″ | Max Capacity: 300lbs

Features: Aluminum Rib Frame Design | PVC Tarpaulin Hull Material | Multi-layer Construction | Multiple Air Chambers

When it involves one of the best light-weight kayaks, the SuperiorFrame Inflatable Kayak tops the record. Weighing in at simply 36 kilos, this sturdy selection is each foldable and inflatable, making it a terrific choice for these seeking to save on area and weight with out sacrificing sturdiness.

Equipped with high-quality supplies together with built-in aluminum ribs, a re-enforced stern that acts as a skeg, and a three-layered shell made from PVC, vinyl, and polyester, this light-weight kayak has the sturdiness of a hardshell with the flexibility of an inflatable. 

The SuperiorFrame additionally boasts a spacious cockpit for a simple entrance and exit. In reality, your complete expertise is made simple with this light-weight kayak. Once you are taking it out of the bag, merely unfold, inflate, connect the seat, and also you’ll be able to glide by way of nearly any physique of water. 

Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS

Weight: 44lbs| Length: 9′ 6″ | Width: 29.5″ | Max Capacity: 250lbs

Features: Two flush mount rod holders | Adjustable foot braces | Protective thigh pads | Shock twine deck rigging

Those in search of one of the best light-weight fishing kayak needn’t search any additional. Perfect for gliding throughout lakes and rivers, this sit-on-top kayak is outfitted with every part you’ll must reel in a keeper. 

The Journey 10 SS options three rod holders (one swivel and two flush mounts), sort out holders, and even a drink holder do you have to really feel the urge to crack open a chilly one whilst you’re out on the water. 

The massive seat, padded backrest, and adjustable foot braces guarantee a snug paddle, and also you’ll have some further area in your gear and snacks within the storage compartments and pockets. 

Made from UV-protected high-density polyethylene, this light-weight, sit-on-top fishing kayak affords sturdiness at simply 44 kilos. 

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

Weight: 30.6lbs | Length: 10′ 3″ | Width: 36″ | Max Capacity: 400lbs

Features: Adjustable inflatable seat | Removable SKEG | 3 Seperate air chambers | Inflatable I-beam flooring

Tandem paddling is straightforward with this light-weight inflatable kayak. Coming in at simply 30 kilos, it’s one of many lightest two-person kayaks available on the market. It’s additionally gentle on the pocketbook, which makes it a win-win in our guide. 

Created with consolation in thoughts, you possibly can lean again within the inflatable seats as you meander alongside calm streams and lakes. The kayak can also be outfitted with detachable skegs for straightforward monitoring, seize strains, and two aluminum oars. 

You’ll really feel secure in addition to comfy on this light-weight choice. The kayak is created from heavy-duty supplies that boast puncture-proof resilience, and the brilliant yellow colour will make you further seen to others out on the water. 

Lifetime Lotus

Weight: 38lbs | Length: 8′ | Width: 30″ | Max Capacity: 250lbs

Features: Self-Bailing Scupper Holes | UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene | Front and Rear T-Handles | Center Carry Handle

One of one of the best light-weight kayaks out there is that this no-frills, sit-on-top vessel from Lifetime. Popular with novices and consultants, adults and kids alike, the sturdy, hard-shell design is right for these in search of a light-weight, low-maintenance choice. 

Although not constructed for pace or whitewater, this  38-pound kayak is shorter and wider, offering a extra secure expertise for paddlers. It’s outfitted with scupper holes within the cockpit, making it simple to shortly drain any water you might tackle. It additionally boasts a molded paddle cradle, ample space for storing, and a fitted twin fin. 

In addition, paddlers will keep comfy because of the adjustable backrest and a number of footing choices. Taller kayakers would possibly wish to search for an extended choice, as the utmost peak for the Lotus is six ft. 

Sevylor Quikpak K1

Weight: 18lbs | Length: 8′ 7″ | Width: 36 in | Max Capacity: 400lbs

Features: Easy-to-carry backpack system | 21-gauge PVC building | Multiple air chambers | Double Lock valves

Weighing in at simply 18 kilos, the Sevylor Quikpak is among the finest light-weight kayaks round. Perfect for adventures who want to pack gentle, this inflatable kayak and its tools match right into a mid-sized backpack that finally turns into your seat.

The kayak is straightforward to maneuver and arduous to tip, making it nice for learners seeking to acquire some expertise on calm, nonetheless waters. 

The backside is made from sturdy tarpaulin, and there are a number of air chambers in order that even for those who occur to puncture one of many air compartments, the opposite pockets will preserve you afloat.

In addition, this light-weight choice is decked out with a cup holder, comfortable backrest, and multi-position footrests, nearly guaranteeing you a snug trip. 

Sea Eagle 330 Deluxe

Weight: 26lbs | Length: 11′ 2″ | Width: 34″ | Max Capacity: 500lbs

Features: Self-bailing drain valve | Three deluxe one-way valves | I-beam building flooring | Two skegs on the underside | Bow and stern seize line

Another prime choose for one of the best light-weight tandem kayak is the inflatable Sea Eagle. This is a stellar selection for pairs in search of a flexible kayak that may tackle some rapids AND be folded down into a light-weight pack that can slot in your trunk. 

At simply 26 kilos, this inflatable sports activities kayak has a weight capability of as much as 500 kilos. The puncture-resistant materials may also tackle as much as class III whitewater, and the double skegs permit for quick and clean monitoring. 

Other notable options embody a sturdy, I-beam flooring building, spray skirts with ample storage beneath, self-bailing drain valves, and seize strains on each the back and front.

Although there are two seats on this nine-foot vessel, taller paddlers might wish to select a baby or canine to trip tandem with, as two adults could also be a good squeeze relying on their peak. 

Pelican Maxim 100X

Weight: 36lbs | Length: 10′ | Width: 28″ | Max Capacity: 275lbs

Features: Adjustable Ergoform backrest | Molded footrests | Carrying handles, Bottle holder and Drain plug | Storage hatch with bungee twine

This sturdy sit-in choice has simply earned a spot amongst the highest 10 finest light-weight kayaks. Matching maneuverability with stability, this hard-sided leisure kayak is a good selection for learners. 

You’ll paddle in consolation with a padded and adjustable seat, molded footrests, and a drink holder instantly in entrance of you. The storage hatch is massive sufficient to suit all of your gear, and a further mesh deck cowl might be discovered on the rear. 

The shallow V chine hull permits for quick monitoring and simple turning, and with a weight of simply 36 kilos, solo paddlers can simply elevate and cargo this light-weight kayak by themselves. 

Lifetime Youth Kayak

Weight: 18lbs | Length: 6′ | Width: 24″ | Max Capacity: 130lbs

Features: Twin Fin Design Assists | UV-Protected | Multiple Footrest Positions | Durable High-Density Polyethylene

Young paddlers will love this light-weight kayak from Lifetime. Known for its no-nonsense method to creating kayaks, Lifetime creates sturdy vessels which are powerful and light-weight, and their youth kayak is not any exception.

This sturdy choice is nice for calm waters and gives unbeatable steadiness, good for individuals who are new to kayaking. The hull is flat for elevated stability, and the twin-fin design makes paddling straight a breeze. 

The kayak has every part you’ll want for a profitable journey on the water, together with scupper holes, a backrest, and a swim-up deck within the again. A paddle can also be included together with your buy. The better part is that it solely weighs 18 kilos! 

Keep in thoughts that though this can be a secure, sturdy choice for kiddos, grownup supervision is all the time extremely really useful for younger kayakers.

Sevylor Coleman Colorado

Weight: 32.9lbs | Length: 10′ 7″ | Width: 36.50″ | Max Capacity: 470lbs

Features: 18-gauge PVC building | 1000D tarpaulin backside and 840D nylon cowl | Multiple air chambers | Boston Valve is double threaded

One of one of the best light-weight fishing kayaks has received to be the Sevylor Coleman Colorado. It has every part you’ll want for a terrific time out on the lake with a buddy, and at just below 40 kilos, it’s one of many lightest fishing boats you’ll discover. 

Outfitted with paddle holders, adjustable seats, ample storage pockets, and adjustable rod holders for hands-free fishing, you’ll be all set to forged out and catch some dinner. There’s additionally a mount for a small trolling motor if you wish to pace issues up a bit. 

This inflatable kayak is constructed with high-quality supplies like tarpaulin, nylon, and PVC, making it simply as sturdy as a hard-sided choice with out the additional weight. 

There are a number of air chambers that can keep inflated for those who do handle to puncture a part of the kayak, and the hermetic system ensures in opposition to any leakage. 

Intex Challenger K1

Weight: 27.2lbs | Length: 9′ | Width: 30″ | Max Capacity: 220lbs

Features: Heavy responsibility puncture-resistant vinyl | 2 separate air chambers | Inflatable I-beam flooring | Boston Valves

A favourite amongst solo paddlers, the Intex Challenger K1 rounds out our record of the ten finest light-weight kayaks. It’s compact in measurement, weight, and value – beneath the $200 mark and simply 24 kilos. 

The cockpit is designed for max consolation and area, full with an inflatable seat and backrest. Although there’s not a lot when it comes to space for storing, a big cargo internet on the entrance gives some room for gear. 

This inflatable kayak is expertly designed to provide the finest general paddling expertise doable. The ergonomic body lets you reduce by way of lakes and rivers with ease, whereas the I-beam flooring ensures most stability. There’s additionally a detachable skeg to assist with monitoring. 

The vinyl materials is extraordinarily puncture-resistant, and the Boston valves make for fast inflation and deflation. The colour was chosen for extra than simply aesthetics alone, although it does work for that cause too. The vivid design ensures that you simply’ll be seen from afar, permitting you to really feel further secure on this small vessel. 

Read More: Best Budget Kayaks: 10 Affordable Options in 2023

Lightweight Kayak Buying Considerations

Here are some important issues to remember relating to shopping for the right light-weight kayak.

Type of Kayak

In the world of kayaking, there are many completely different fashions, and deciding which one is finest for you might be difficult. The excellent news is that regardless of which sort you select, it is best to have the ability to discover a light-weight choice. Here’s a fast rundown of among the hottest kinds of kayaks to assist make your determination simpler. 

Recreational

These are your typical, all-around kayaks which are good for paddling throughout calm waters with little wind or waves. They are oftentimes extra spacious and simpler to maneuver, making them nice for learners or these in search of a extra secure expertise.

Fishing

Fishing kayaks are typically longer and wider, providing extra space and stability for whenever you forged out. Sit-on-top fashions are extra frequent in fishing kayaks to permit for straightforward reeling, although there are numerous sit-in fashions out there as nicely. Most fishing kayaks are decked out with all of the bells and whistles, together with paddle, rod, and even drink holders.

Sea

Sea kayaks are normally longer and extra slender than leisure kayaks, making it simple to chop by way of waves. Most are outfitted with a skeg or rudder to assist with monitoring, they usually are inclined to have extra space for storing as in a single day journeys are frequent on these vessels. Because of its slim design, learners might discover sea kayaks a bit much less secure than different fashions. 

Whitewater

If you’re taking up rapids, you’ll want a troublesome vessel. Whitewater kayaks are designed to maneuver shortly by way of tough water and are sometimes shorter and wider than different fashions for added stability. Most are sit-in choices in order that your decrease physique might help steadiness the kayak by way of the uneven water. Surprisingly, many inflatable kayaks are designed to deal with whitewater and bounce off of rocks with ease. 

Inflatable

These are a terrific choice for these seeking to journey gentle. Inflatable kayaks have come a good distance previously few years, and it’s doable to get a light-weight, blow-up kayak with out compromising on efficiency. There are quite a few choices, from sit-on-top to sit-ins, fishing boats, and even some that may tackle whitewater higher than their hard-sided counterparts. Most inflatable kayaks might be packed down right into a small bag or backpack, making them superb for these seeking to save on area together with weight. 

Foldable

Foldable kayaks are one other nice choice for individuals who are brief on area. These are made with a base of collapsible materials (normally aluminum, wooden, plastic, or a mixture of the three) and coated with a troublesome, waterproof material like vinyl or nylon. Once the kayak has been folded up, it matches right into a compact journey bag that may be saved in small areas. 

Sit-on-Top vs. Sit-In

Another issue you’ll want to contemplate is if you’d like a sit-on-top or a sit-in kayak. There are execs and cons to every, all of it depends upon what kind of expertise you’re hoping to have. One shouldn’t be inherently heavier than the opposite, so that you’ll have loads of light-weight choices for each sorts. 

Sit-on-Top 

Sit-on-top kayaks are oftentimes extra comfy as a result of your legs usually are not confined to the cockpit. This is particularly true for taller paddlers. 

With no cockpit to fret about stepping into and out of, these kayaks are additionally normally simpler to enter and exit.

Most sit-on-top fashions are self-bailing, so your odds of flooding the kayak are minimal. 

Sit-In

Sit-in kayaks are perfect for colder and rougher waters as a result of they’re safer and supply higher safety from the weather. 

You’ll sit down within the cockpit, and hooked up spray skirts will preserve you dry and heat. 

These kayaks are additionally normally simpler to maneuver, extra environment friendly to paddle, and are oftentimes extra high-tech than the sit-on-top fashions. 

Weight Capacity

All kayaks have a most weight capability, and normally, the extra weight your boat can maintain the higher. But relating to light-weight kayaks, you might wish to take into consideration packing gentle for those who’re hoping to maintain the burden down. 

That being stated, most light-weight kayaks nonetheless have a wholesome weight capability, at the least sufficient for you and your important gear. Double-check the specs of your kayak to verify it may maintain all your tools if you’re planning to pack for an prolonged tour or tenting journey. 

Your Own Height and Weight

Although some light-weight kayaks have a excessive weight capability, it is best to nonetheless take into account your personal peak and weight when deciding which mannequin is best for you. 

If you’re tall or extra heavy set, you might must seek for a roomier cockpit or a kayak with further leg area.

Keep in thoughts that simply because a ship is longer or wider, that doesn’t all the time translate into further area in your particular person. Some small boats have larger cockpits and a few brief kayaks supply loads of leg area. 

Durability

When deciding on a kayak, you’ll want to decide on between hardshell and inflatable. Generally, hard-sided kayaks have a greater status for sturdiness, with rugged UV-protected polyethylene being one of the vital frequent supplies used. 

But inflatable choices have actually stepped it up in the previous couple of years with puncture-resistant materials, a number of air chambers, and patching kits in case you do incur some injury. This is nice information for these in search of a light-weight kayak, as hardshell choices are sometimes on the heavy aspect. 

There are some tremendous light-weight hardshell kayak choices, like fiberglass or kevlar, however these are nearly assured to value you a fairly penny. 

Storage Space

When it involves storage on light-weight kayaks, you would possibly discover a standard theme – there isn’t a lot. 

This might be as a lot of a blessing as it’s a curse as a result of it is going to drive you to pack gentle and subsequently preserve the burden of your kayak down.

That being stated there are some light-weight kayaks that supply extra space for storing than others, you simply might need to make extra of some extent to hunt them out if this can be a large promoting level for you. 

Read More: Best Beginner Fishing Kayak: Top 10 Picks for 2023

Frequently Asked Questions about Lightweight Kayaks

If you’ve got any questions or considerations relating to shopping for a light-weight kayak, try these FAQs for much more professional recommendation.

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