Pros and cons of inflatable kayaks: 4 things to know before starting
Are you approaching the world of water sports and don't know what to choose between an inflatable and a rigid kayak?
No problem, it's completely normal, each solution has its own advantages and disadvantages, but, little spoiler, those who start from scratch usually choose the inflatable kayak!
How come? Let's see it together!
INFLATABLE KAYAK: LIGHTER AND MORE COMFORTABLE TO CARRY
A very first aspect, indeed, two aspects, which usually tip the balance in favor of the inflatable kayak are the weight and the transport.
Compared to the rigid solution, in fact, the inflatable kayak has a decidedly lower weight and, thanks to its softness, can be easily folded inside its backpack and transported comfortably in the trunk of the car, but also by moped, bicycle or on foot if you need to reach particularly hidden coves.
In most cases, among other things, it inflates and deflates in a few minutes using a manual or pedal pump, even if the electric model is the ultimate in convenience and speed: the latter, moreover, has also incorporated the pressure, to always have the boat inflated to the right point.
INFLATABLE KAYAK: IF YOU ARE BEGINNING IT'S SAFER!
Another aspect to take into consideration is obviously safety: it may seem like a paradox, but the inflatable kayak is safer than the rigid one if you have no navigation experience, because in the event of overturning you can easily turn it over and get back on it, which with that rigid certainly becomes more complicated.
In addition to this, in the event of accidental bumps or blows, which can happen frequently when you are a beginner, the inflatable kayak is able to cushion the blows better (of course, it always depends on the extent of the blow!), avoiding thus to get scratched or chipped, as normally happens with the rigid one.
INFLATABLE KAYAK: IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SPEED, BETTER THE RIGID!
If you are looking for a kayak that satisfies your thirst for speed, then the rigid one is for you: moreover, the rigid kayak allows you to cover even more kilometers per single navigation, while the inflatable one is more suitable for going not too far offshore or navigating flat waters, such as those of a lake for example.
But remember: this is actually a valid reason to choose the inflatable kayak at the beginning of your experience, to practice, so as not to run excessive risks related to speed or capsizing.
INFLATABLE KAYAK: CHEAPER THAN THE RIGID KAYAK
Even in economic terms, the inflatable kayak is more advantageous than the rigid solution; but be careful, this does not mean that it is less durable, because nowadays the technologies of the materials with which they are made have reached very high levels, which ensure a very good longevity.
The only addition to the price of the kayak is its inflator, but even here, depending on the solution you decide to choose (manual, pedal or electric) there are options for all tastes and budgets!
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