Top 5 Inflatable Kayaks


These are the inflatable kayaks that we have chosen to be in our top five.  We based our decision on quality, stability, value for the money, warranty and performance.

The top five inflatable kayaks we have chosen are not necessarily the best performing kayaks.  Please see our list of best performing inflatable kayaks.


Sea Eagle FastTrack

The FastTrack came on the market in April 2010 and has quickly become extremely popular. It is simliar in size to the Sea Eagle 380X except just slightly slimmer. However it has the added advantages of only weighing 35 lbs. and has a unique design that offers much more speed.

The FastTrack is my personal inflatable kayak of choice and I personally use it all year round for lake kayaking as well as ocean paddling.  It can also handle some mild whitewater.  The 385 FastTrack has several packages to choose from including a solo model, a 2 seater and a great fishing package.  There is also a larger 3 person model now available too (the 465 FastTrack) which is great for families and long expeditions.  Both the tandem and 3 person models have the ability to adjust the seats to be paddled solo if desired.  It also comes with a great three year warranty.  Read full review.

Aire Lynx IAire Lynx II

If you are looking for an all day river adventure inflatable kayak, the Lynx is a phenomenal option.  Weighing only thirty-two pounds and backed by a ten year warranty, this kayak is already off to a great start.  Then add in the fact that it can handle up to class IV rapids beautifully and comes with the option of a closed-cell floor for higher performance or an air-cell floor for lighter weight.

The Lynx has gained huge popularity for good reason.  It comes in a solo version as well as a tandem version.  Read full review.

Innova Helios I

We have recently added the Helios to this list as in our opinion it is one of the best solo inflatable kayaks out there for paddling on open water. There are many reasons the Helios is so popular including the fact that it only weighs 24 lbs. and rolls up really small into a backpack that is included in the purchase of the kayak. It offers ample storage room and although it is not super fast, it tracks along nicely and will hold its own in the water.

This inflatable kayak is ideal for someone that wants a solo kayak that is easy to manage, can be brought anywhere (including traveling) and versatile enough to paddle well on the ocean as well as on a lake. It comes with a 2 year warranty and also has the option of a tandem version. Read full review.

Sea Eagle 380X

The 380X was chosen because of its sheer versatility. It is unbelievably rugged and highly versatile as it can handle flat water paddling, ocean surf and heavy whitewater rapids. You can literally take this kayak into any type of water, and it is ideal for fishing trips and multi-day adventures.

It may not be the fastest inflatable kayak because of its wider width but it makes up for that in every other way including comfort and space. This inflatable kayak has the option of three different sizes to choose from depending on your needs as well as comes with a 180 day risk free trial and a great three year warranty. Read full review.

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible

The AdvancedFrame Convertible is extremely popular and has a great look.  It is a little heavier than some others at fifty-six pounds, but it has many great features.  It has the option of closing off the deck giving it a more ‘authentic’ kayak feel as well as good protection from the elements.

It is great for two people but can easily be converted into a solo kayak.   This Advanced Elements kayak offers great features for an affordable price.  It comes with a one year warranty.   Read full review.