From simply paddling around with the children on the quarry lake to an extended river hike: a kayak offers young and old a whole range of possibilities. And in its inflatable form, it has the advantage that it is much easier to transport and store away in the meantime. Depending on the size, there is room for between one and three people and possibly even some luggage. Ideally, the respective kayak also comes with the right accessories. These primarily include an air pump and the right paddle. A repair set is also not wrong at this point.

So that this repair kit does not have to be used if possible, the kayak should be made of a robust and well-made material that is resistant to UV radiation, salt water and oil. Commonly used materials are PVC, EPDM and PES fabric. It is also important that the inflatable kayak has at least two or three air chambers. Several air chambers with separate valves increase safety, since only one chamber loses air in the event of a leak.

Tip: You can find a compact overview of different kayak variants including hard-shell kayaks here.

Inflatable Kayak Checklist

Space available: Kayaks are usually between 3 and 5 m long and offer space for 2 to 3 people, depending on the model. Caution: some 3-seater models are only suitable for 2 adults and 1 child. If you plan to cover a longer distance or if you want to take a backpack or two with you for some other reason, the kayak should also have enough space for luggage.

Payload: Whether with or without luggage – before use, you should definitely pay attention to the maximum payload. Kayaks here usually have a range between 155 and 400 kg.

Material: The material should be both flexible and stable. It should also be resistant to UV rays, salt water and oil. Commonly used materials are PVC, EPDM and PES fabric.

Safety: Inflatable kayaks usually consist of three separate air chambers: a bottom chamber and two side chambers. Each chamber has its own valve. This is important because multiple air chambers with separate valves increase safety since only one chamber will lose air if there is a leak.

Inflation & Deflating Time: A kayak that takes a long time to inflate or deflate can unnecessarily delay the start of an adventure. Quality kayaks have efficient valves that allow for rapid inflation and deflation.

Extras & accessories: There are valuable plus points for extras such as carrying handles and accessories such as suitable air pumps and paddles. Removable fins, a pressure gauge, a carrying bag and a repair kit are also recommended.

What do you have to pay attention to with inflatable kayaks?

– Kayaks typically vary in length from 3 to 5 meters and can accommodate 2 to 3 people depending on the model, with some 3 person models only suitable for 2 adults and 1 child.

– The material used must combine flexibility and stability. It is important that it is resistant to UV rays, salt water and oil. PVC, EPDM and PES fabric are among the commonly used materials.

- Inflatable kayaks usually rely on three separate air chambers - one bottom and two side chambers - each with its own valve. This design increases safety by only venting one chamber in the event of a leak.

How do I choose the right inflatable kayak?

Choosing the right kayak depends on your needs. For touring on calm waters, a simpler model is sufficient, for whitewater rafting it should be a more robust one. The number of users also plays a role: there are single and two-person kayaks.

What are the quality differences in inflatable kayaks?

Quality inflatable kayaks are made from strong materials such as PVC, Hypalon or Nitrylon, have efficient inflation and deflation times, and come with useful accessories.

Which inflatable kayak manufacturers do you recommend?

– Valwix

Who are inflatable kayaks for?

For people who want to enjoy the freedom and tranquility on the water without having to worry about the transport and storage of a traditional kayak. They are also a good option for adventurers who enjoy whitewater rafting.

Which is better: canoe or kayak?

Whether a canoe or a kayak is better depends on individual needs and preferences. Kayaks tend to be faster, more maneuverable and better suited to rough waters, while canoes offer more luggage space and are more suited to calm rivers or lakes. Kayaks are steered with double paddles, while canoes are steered with a single paddle.

How much does an inflatable kayak cost?

Inflatable kayak prices vary greatly depending on the model, material and quality. Simple models can be available from around 150 USD, while high-quality, robust specimens with additional features such as paddles, repair kits or carrying bags can cost several hundred to over a thousand Dollars. It is advisable to check exactly what requirements you have for the kayak and how much you are willing to invest before you buy it.

How long does it take to inflate an inflatable kayak?

The exact time varies depending on the size of the kayak and the pump. Generally, it takes about 5 to 15 minutes with a hand pump.