New Inflatable Kayak Comparison Charts

You may have noticed in the category bar near the top of this website we have an inflatable kayak comparison chart as well as an inflatable canoe comparison chart.

We have decided to add to these to hopefully make them more useful and organized for everyone to take advantage of.

Changes to the Existing Comparison Charts

We have divided the inflatable kayak comparison chart into two separate pages… one for solo inflatable kayak comparisons and the other for tandem inflatable kayak comparisons.  From there we have also divided them by price range.

I don’t know about everyone else but I was having a hard time looking at the comparison chart page anymore without my eyes going blurry.  Hopefully this new format as well as the fact that we have added pictures of each kayak will make things easier on the eyes and more appealing to look at and research.

New Inflatable Kayak Comparison Charts

We have also added 9 new mini comparison charts for each of the individual inflatable kayak manufacturers. The point of these are to help people do some really quick comparisons of inflatable kayaks from the same brand.

The new comparison charts we have included are:

• Advanced Elements Comparison Chart

• Aire Comparison Chart

• Airis Comparison Chart

• Bic Comparison Chart

• Innova Comparison Chart

• NRS Comparison Chart

• Sea Eagle Comparison Chart

• Sevylor Comparison Chart

• Tributary Comparison Chart

Inflatable Kayak Comparison Chart Details

Each comparison chart will cover the basics including:

1. model name
2. best uses
3. length
4. width
5. weight
6. load capacity
7. price range

A few years ago when I began researching which inflatable kayak to purchase I used to have a million screens open on my computer at once as I was trying to compare the specs of different models.

My hope is that these smaller individual comparison charts will help to organize all of the important information in one place to make the process of comparing different inflatable kayaks easier. We may add more charts to our list down the road.

Popular Inflatable Canoe Comparisons

An inflatable canoe is a very popular addition to many people’s summer fun. They are a great option for those who go camping, RV’ing, fishing and want the convenience of easy storage and easy transportation. Also they tend to cost less than a regular canoe.

Two Inflatable Canoe Winners

Over the course of the last year we have noticed two inflatable canoe models that consistently stand out in popularity. They are:

(click on the links below to read our full review of these models)

• the Sea Eagle 370

• the Sevylor Colorado

Although there are other inflatable canoes that offer better quality and features, these two (at least from what we have noticed on our website) are what people are buying. I think these two canoe models are popular for a few reasons:

1. they are affordable – they are both in the same price range of between $250 and $400
2. they are versatile
3. they are lightweight
4. they are stable

In other words they will appeal to many including kids, fishermen, families and beginner paddlers.

Although there are some very high quality inflatable canoes that are designed for hard core expeditions and river trekking, the majority of people seem to just want an easy way to get out on the water.

Inflatable Canoe Comparisons

From our experience we can see that the Sea Eagle 370 and the Sevylor Colorado are very well liked. So let’s look at the comparisons between these two models.

Sea Eagle 370

• The 370 is a tandem model and seats can be moved around to suit your needs or to paddle solo

• There are two seat options: canoe seats or deluxe inflatable seats. I personally really don’t like the canoe seats. They would work fine for kids but for anyone else I would highly recommend the deluxe inflatable seats as they are far more comfortable.

• Very quick and easy setup

• Can hold up to 650 pounds

• Comes in two size options. The 330 model being the smaller size and the 370 the larger.

• Comes with a 3 year warranty

• Length: 12’ 2”, Width: 34”, Weight: 32 lbs.

Sevylor Colorado

• The Colorado is also a tandem inflatable canoe that can be adjusted to suit your needs. The seats can easily be moved to paddle solo.

• This canoe comes with two elevated bucket seats with storage compartments in the back.

• Has built in oar-holders

• Fast and easy setup

• Can hold up to 440 pounds

• Comes with a 1 year warranty

• Length: 10’ 6”, Width: 39”, Weight: 32 lbs.

Both of these models are good choices if you are looking for an affordable, versatile and light weight inflatable canoe. They are both sturdy and rugged and have the capability of lasting for many years.

I personally favor the Sea Eagle brand over the Sevylor brand because I feel the quality is a lot better… but that is just me as many others have loved this Sevylor canoe.

If you want to go up in size and quality you will definitely be looking at spending more money. The price range on inflatable canoes can vary from $250 to well over $2000.

If you would like to compare the specs for these two inflatable canoe models as well as see other options please see our Inflatable Canoe Comparison Chart.

Convertible Inflatable Kayaks – Best of Both Worlds

If you are having a hard time trying to decide whether you would be happier with a tandem inflatable kayak or a solo inflatable kayak I would highly recommend looking at the few tandem kayaks that offer the choice of being converted into solo kayaks.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both solo and tandem inflatable kayaks.  Having one that is able to paddle well whether in tandem mode or while going solo is really ideal.

I personally chose a tandem inflatable kayak that is able to convert into a solo kayak because the convenience of it outweighed most other factors. This way I can always bring someone along for the ride if I choose to, but I can also go out solo and know that I still have a well balanced kayak.

Advantages of a Convertible Inflatable Kayak

• Option of kayaking solo or tandem.
• Usually the tandem will be a longer and heavier inflatable kayak which will hold its own better in the water.
• Capacity to hold a lot more weight if you want to go solo but bring along a lot of gear.
• Great for bringing along kids or dogs.
• Excellent for traveling… you only need to pack along one kayak.
• Great choice for a larger person who may find a solo kayak a bit cramped.

Tandem Inflatable Kayaks that can be Converted into Solos

Please click on the inflatable kayak model name to read our full detailed review.

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible – I think this has always been one of the most popular tandem inflatable kayaks that can be converted to a solo. This kayak is nice looking, convenient and fun for recreational paddling.

Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2 – This one is great for paddling on whitewater as well as a little bit on flat water. The StraitEdge 2 is convenient and affordable.

Aire Sea Tiger – High quality inflatable kayak that comes with a phenomenal ten year warranty. Great for ocean kayaking.

Aire Tributary Strike II – Good all around inflatable kayak. Versatile and stable.

Innova Sunny – One of my favorites as it is lightweight, fast and very convenient. The Sunny is good for flat water paddling.

NRS Bandit II – This is a whitewater inflatable kayak that can handle up to class IV rapids. It is made with environmentally friendly materials and comes with an affordable price tag.

NRS MaverIK II – Very well made inflatable kayak that handles best on flat water but can handle some rapids. Great ten year warranty.

Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks – (Sea Eagle 330 & 370) – Extremely popular as an entry level inflatable kayak. Paddles well in most types of water and can hold a lot of weight.

Sea Eagle Explorer Kayaks – (Sea Eagle 340x, 380x & 420x) – This was my own personal choice for my first inflatable kayak (the 380x). Highly popular because of its sheer versatility, rugged nature and decent price tag.

Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack – New out for 2010 the FastTrack has quickly made a name for itself and offers excellent performance as well as versatility.  I now have one myself and it has become my kayak of choice.

Sevylor XK17 Ocean Kayak – This inflatable kayak can hold between one and three people. It is very long and extremely versatile. Typically this kayak is very popular with families.

Keep in mind that if the kayak you are interested in is not on this list, you can often convert almost any tandem into a solo inflatable kayak yourself. All you have to do is purchase some extra d-rings and water glue. Attach the extra set of d-rings in the middle of the kayak where you would want to sit if you were kayaking solo. As long as your seat is one that is able to attach to d-rings then you are set and it is very easy to do this.

View our full list of inflatable kayak reviews.

Inflatable Canoes – The Best of the Best

Inflatable canoes can often be interchangeable with inflatable kayaks. There are a few models however that definitely fall into the “canoe” category and make very compact and convenient boats for traveling, fishing, expeditions, and of course for summer fun.

An inflatable canoe will have an open concept. Some are designed more for flat water while others are constructed specifically for taking on some bigger rapids.

A canoe will not likely go as fast as a kayak as they tend to sit higher up in the water and are more exposed to the wind. They are however extremely popular for many people and owning an inflatable canoe allows for the ultimate in convenient transportation as well as very easy storage.

There are a few inflatable canoe models on the market that really stand out above the rest. Below are the top canoes for their respective category:

Best All-Around Inflatable Canoe

• Aire Traveler Inflatable Canoe – You won’t find a better quality inflatable canoe anywhere. The Aire Traveler offers the toughest material, the best 10 year warranty, two comfortable and adjustable bench seats, and an optional rowing frame. The quality far surpasses any others you might come across.
  
  The Aire Traveler is just as good for flat water paddling fun as it is for heavy expeditions down a moving river. The downside to the Aire Traveler is that it weighs 70 lbs which is heavy for an inflatable and costs over $2000. Ouch. However if you are looking for the best… this is it.

Best Inflatable Canoe for Expeditions and Big Rapids

• Innova Vagabond Inflatable Canoe – The Vagabond is a river trekking inflatable canoe that can handle up to class III rivers. The major pluses to this model are that it is light weight (only 38 lbs.) so works great for traveling, is set up for two people but can be converted for solo use, and it has an optional spray deck that offers excellent protection from the elements.
  
  The quality of the Vagabond is really excellent. The material is tough and it comes with a decent two year warranty. The downside to the Innova Vagabond is that it is not self-bailing. Inflatable canoes rarely are self-bailing, but if you are taking this boat into big rapids as advertised, drain holes would be a big help. However that is why the spray deck is offered and that can make all the difference.

Best Affordable Family Inflatable Canoe

• Sea Eagle 330 or 370 Inflatable Canoe – The Sea Eagle inflatable canoe…also called the Sea Eagle sport kayak, is excellent for families for a number of reasons. For one thing, the price is excellent and very affordable. For another it has tough as nails construction and will be able to take a good beating with no problems – including dogs claws. This canoe comes in two different sizes and has adjustable seats.
  
  The Sea Eagle 330 is good for two smaller people or for a solo paddler. The Sea Eagle 370 offers much more room for a more comfortable ride and would be the best model for parents with kids or a dog. Both of these models come with a great 3 year warranty and upgraded accessories if needed.

Cheapest Inflatable Canoe

• Sevylor Tahiti Inflatable Canoe – You don’t get much cheaper then the Sevylor Tahiti. This is one of the original Sevylor inflatable boats and it has been around since 1963. The fact that it is so cheap is a bit of a warning because it basically means that everything about this inflatable canoe is cheap including the construction, the seats, the comfort level, etc. I would not recommend this canoe to anyone.
  
  For only a slight bit more money you can purchase one of the Sea Eagle inflatable canoes and actually get yourself a canoe that will offer quality, comfort and will last for many years to come. There is no comparison in quality, performance and style between the Sevylor Tahiti and the Sea Eagle 330 or the 370.

Of course there are other inflatable canoe models to choose from. Please see our comprehensive reviews of inflatable canoes for more detailed information on each individual model.

Sea Eagle Kayak Comparisons

Sea Eagle kayaks are some of the most popular inflatable kayaks on the market. They are not the top of the line but they do offer more versatility and features than most others in their price range.

It is no secret that I am a big fan of Sea Eagle kayaks, in particular their Explorer kayaks. My favorite model is the Sea Eagle 380X. I found that this inflatable kayak meets almost all of my needs:

1. Tandem kayak that can also be paddled solo
2. Versatile enough to paddle in different types of water
3. Decent warranty
4. Rigid yet very comfortable
5. Can be taken traveling… anywhere
6. Costs under $1000

Those were my basic requirements for an inflatable kayak and the 380X Sea Eagle kayak fit the bill… but how does it stack up to other comparable inflatable kayaks?

Below I will go through some comparison factors to other similar models.

The Sea Eagle 380X Compared To:

Aire Super Lynx

I strongly considered the Aire Super Lynx when I began searching for the right inflatable kayak. This kayak has been extremely popular and is similar to the Sea Eagle kayak in that it is a jack of all trades but a master at none. I don’t mind that because it tends to mirror my kayaking style.

• The Super Lynx is longer and is able to pick up higher speeds, which is nice.
• It weighs 43 lbs.
• It can hold a good amount of weight
• It is self-bailing and is known to be very comfortable.
• The quality is excellent and it has a top of the line warranty.

The problem… it is expensive. The Aire Super Lynx runs roughly at $1500 and that only includes the kayak and the seats. With the Sea Eagle kayaks you can get the kayak, the good seats, the good paddles, the air pump, etc. all for just over $800. Once you add all the essentials to the Super Lynx it will end up costing more than twice as much. Even though I do believe the Super Lynx is worth it, I am willing to settle for a slightly less impressive inflatable kayak for a much, much lower price.

Another thing to consider is that if you do plan on paddling your tandem kayak solo at times, the Super Lynx is long and may not be as easy to handle for one person.

Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2

The AE StraitEdge 2 has had its share of popularity. I would describe Advanced Elements kayaks as “middle of the road”. I like the StraitEdge because it can be paddled on flat water or whitewater, it is self-bailing, similar in size and weight to the 380x as well as similar in price.

I ended up dismissing it for a few reasons:

• There is no option to add a rudder.
• I am not fond of the AE seats (though these can always be changed).
• The Advanced Elements quality of construction is not as good as the Sea Eagle kayaks, nor is their warranty.

Aire Lynx II

No doubt about it, the Aire Lynx is a fantastic inflatable kayak. This kayak has many factors that are better than the Sea Eagle kayaks including:

• the quality
• the warranty
• the performance

In fact they are better than just about every other inflatable kayak on the market. However the Lynx is purely designed for whitewater and would not track well or paddle well on flat water.

I like the fact that it weighs only 39 pounds but dismissed it because I am not a hardcore whitewater kayaker. The Lynx II costs almost twice as much as the 380X and if I were to pay that kind of money, the kayak better meet all my needs. The Lynx II would be well suited to those wanting a really good quality, compact inflatable kayak that is able to take on big rapids.

Tributary Strike 2

For some reason the Tributary Strike seems to get overlooked. The Tributary kayaks (owned by Aire) do not offer the same excellent quality that the American made Aire kayaks do. The Tributary Strike however is one of the better ones and does offer versatility, a decent performance, similar dimensions to the Sea Eagle 380X as well as great stability.

It is in truth quite comparable to the Sea Eagle Explorer kayaks… the big difference is that it costs a fair amount more. Why would I pay almost $1000 for this kayak then still have to buy my paddles and my pump when I can get just as good of a kayak with Sea Eagle for a lot less? Well I wouldn’t.

Conclusion…

I know that not everyone would agree with me but even when I consider all these other similar inflatable kayaks, my choice is still the 380X Sea Eagle kayak. I am willing to sacrifice a little speed for a kayak that meets all my other needs.

The one thing that I would have preferred was a kayak that weighed a little bit less. The Sea Eagle 380X weighs 47 lbs which is still okay but for traveling I would have loved it to weigh less. However for all the pluses it offers I was willing to overlook this. Besides when a kayak is too light it tends to get blown by the wind and becomes hard to control.

I suppose that if I were to recommend one inflatable kayak that offers everything the Sea Eagle explorer kayak does and more it would be the Aire Super Lynx. It comes down to whether it is really worth it for you to spend twice the amount of money for a slightly better kayak. For me right now, it is not… but I would consider it down the road.

For more detailed information on individual models please see our reviews of inflatable kayaks.

Aire Kayaks versus NRS Kayaks

If you are looking for a whitewater inflatable kayak you have likely come across two major brand names… Aire Kayaks and NRS kayaks. At first glance it may be a little difficult to see too many differences between these two manufacturers. Both are extremely popular, both have been around for quite some time – however both are not created equal.

A little bit about Aire Kayaks

Aire Kayaks are known to be the leaders in the inflatable kayak world. They are American made and most Aire kayaks come with a phenomenal 10 year warranty. The construction of their inflatable kayaks is just that much better and it will be reflected in the performance. Consequently many kayaking enthusiasts who use an inflatable kayak will swear by the Aire kayaks.

A little bit about NRS Kayaks

NRS does not offer the same extreme quality as the Aire kayaks but they are a force to be reckoned with none-the-less. They have been a pioneer in the inflatable kayak world and are known for producing affordable yet good quality inflatable kayaks. They are lower in price as well as usually have a  lower warranty. However they do offer good kayaks for everyday use that more people can afford.

Which Brand to Go With

From my experience, even though the Aire kayaks cost more, I still see them as more popular. If you are looking and trying to decide whether to go with an Aire inflatable kayak or a NRS inflatable kayak I really think it is going to come down to how much you are willing to spend.

• If you have the money, you are likely going to want to choose the Aire kayak as there is no question that it is a better inflatable kayak. It will last you longer, it will likely come with a better warranty and it will probably give an all around better performance. The chances of being disappointed are slim to none.

• However if you are looking to spend a little less, I would not hesitate in recommending the NRS kayaks. Many people have been more than satisfied with them. One thing about NRS is that the company in general is extremely passionate about kayaking. They are continually improving their models and they even offer a couple of inflatable kayaks that come with a great 10 year warranty. They are competing with Aire and consequently are always striving to do better.

I think as far as making a choice, it is going to come down to how often you plan on using the kayak, as well as how much you are willing to spend. My own preference would be to go for the Aire Kayak as I think it is a better product that offers a lot more versatility.

Perhaps you have some thoughts of your own on these two brands? Please feel free to share them in the comments section below.

For more detailed information on individual inflatable kayaks view our comprehensive reviews on AIRE kayaks and on NRS kayaks.

Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks versus Sea Eagle Explorer Kayaks

A lot of people who are considering purchasing a Sea Eagle inflatable kayak have questioned whether to buy the Sea Eagle sport kayak or the Sea Eagle explorer kayak. Besides price there are some major differences to be aware of.

Think of it this way… the sport inflatable kayaks are more of a base model and the explorer inflatable kayaks are more hard core. Below are some facts and comparisons that may be helpful if you are sitting on the fence as to which one is best for your needs.

Sea Eagle Sport Inflatable Kayaks

• Available in two different sizes (330 & the 370)
• Can be paddled in lakes or rivers
• Self-bailing
• Between 11’2 and 12’ in length
• Both sizes are 34” in width
• Weigh between 26 lbs and 32 lbs
• Can hold between 500 lbs and 650 lbs depending on which size
• Both sizes cost under $500

Sea Eagle Explorer Inflatable Kayaks

• Available in three different sizes (340X, 380X & the 420X)
• Can be paddled in lakes, rivers or ocean (optional rudder is available)
• Self-bailing
• Between 11’1” and 14’ in length depending on the model
• All three sizes are 37” in width
• Weigh between 42 lbs and 54 lbs depending on size
• Can hold between 600 lbs and 853 lbs depending on size
• All three sizes cost over $500 but under $1000

More about the two different types of Sea Eagle kayaks

If you have kayaked before and plan to use your kayak more then a few times per year, then you may not be satisfied with the Sport Kayak. It is a great inflatable kayak for a brand new paddler and for those looking for some simple recreational fun.

The Sport Kayaks can handle many different water types but is still a base model for an inflatable kayak. Consequently the price is excellent but the performance is only so-so.

Also another factor I would like to point out is the comfort level. I have used both types of Sea Eagle kayaks and though I enjoyed paddling the Sport Kayak I also found myself a bit cramped and after awhile a little uncomfortable. This is not a kayak to take out for hours on end.

The Explorer Kayaks are bigger, sturdier, tougher and able to handle much bigger water. I believe it is possible to “grow out” of the Sport Kayak but the Explorer Kayaks can keep you satisfied for a very long time. I find that I am very comfortable in the Explorer Kayak and with the better seats and paddles it offers a much nicer ride.

Conclusion on the two different kinds of Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks

Bottom line…

The Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks are best suited for:

• Brand new kayakers
• Those on a tight budget who still want a quality boat
• Recreational kayakers
• Those who love to travel… either by car, airplane or by RV
• Kids, families and yes even dogs

The Sea Eagle Explorer Kayaks are best suited for:

• New kayakers to experienced kayakers
• Those able to spend an extra few hundred for a better boat
• Those wanting the ability to take on bigger water
• Those who love to travel by car or by RV… the bigger models are getting a little heavy to take by plane
• Families, kids, dogs, anglers, and any other person who wants a great quality inflatable kayak that may not be the fastest in the water but will likely last forever.

Hope this helps. Please check out our comprehensive reviews of Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks for more detailed information on each individual model.

Are Sit On Top Inflatable Kayaks any Good?

Some people classify most inflatable kayaks as sit-on-tops. This is for the obvious reason that many inflatable kayaks do not have the low seating that many hard-shell kayaks have.

However they are not actually sit-on-tops. They may not have the low center point as their hard-shelled cousins, but they are none-the-less usually much lower than an actual sit-on-top.

A true inflatable sit-on-top kayak will have the seat right on top of the kayak. There will be no “inside cockpit” to put your legs in and no storage room except for some bungee tie down cords on top. So is this type of inflatable kayak any good?

Typically sit-on-top kayaks are used by rental outfitters because they tend to be quite stable, easy to paddle and are very easy to re-board from within the water.

Some are constructed better than others of course and will offer different levels of performance and adventure. For the most part a true sit-on-top kayak will be purely a recreational boat that will be suited for flat waters.

One would not expect to do too many tricks and turns in this type of kayak and it would be suited well for families, kids, traveling or as a fun play boat. You will not get the “authentic” kayaking feel from a sit-on-top or that feeling of being “one” with the water.

That being said, sit-on-tops do serve their purpose and I have enjoyed many paddling experiences on one myself. They tend to be quite popular for those who are into diving and snorkeling as they offer a very easy platform to board from the water.

Is an inflatable sit-on-top any good? Yes, absolutely, they can be an excellent recreational kayak to own. They can be found under our recreational/flatwater kayaking section.

Key Inflatable Kayak Comparison Factors

When searching for an inflatable kayak naturally you will want to compare certain models. There are a few key things that are important to be aware of and to check when you are doing your comparisons.

Consider these Factors when Comparing Inflatable Kayaks

1. Water Type – Depending on what type of kayaking you would like to do, the water type will be very important. Some inflatable kayaks are more geared for whitewater and others are geared for flatwater or ocean kayaking. If you plan on paddling mostly in whitewater rapids then it is important that your kayak is able to handle that type of water.
2. Length – The length of the kayak will help to determine a few things. For one a longer and sleeker kayak will tend to go faster. Also a longer kayak will usually provide more room for gear and accessories or for extra people or dogs.
3. Width – The width will determine how stable your kayak is. A wider boat will of course offer more stability. Sometimes a wider inflatable kayak can be good for beginner to novice paddlers, but it can also be good for heavy loads and comfort.
4. Weight – One of the main advantages to owning an inflatable kayak is that you can easily take it anywhere. If you plan on traveling with your kayak it is nice to have one that doesn’t weigh a whole lot. Also if you plan on kayaking solo it is important that you are able to carry your kayak by yourself. However another factor to consider is that the lighter the kayak, the more it may be affected by wind and heavy water.
5. Load Capacity – How much do you need your inflatable kayak to hold? Will you be doing any overnight expeditions? Tandem kayaks can typically hold a lot more gear than solo kayaks. It is important to know the maximum load capacity of your boat if you plan on taking more than just your camera and water bottle.
6. Kayak Material – Different inflatable kayak manufacturers will use different materials. Some are better than others and are able to withstand harsher conditions. To learn more on this subject please check out our article “Types of Inflatable Kayak Materials”.
7. Solo or Tandem? – Will you be kayaking by yourself or do you need a double kayak? There are lots of inflatable kayaks that can hold two or more people and these can be ideal for couples, families, dogs and for helping out an inexperienced kayaker. There are also some tandem inflatable kayaks that can be converted into solo kayaks which is a very convenient option.
8. Warranty – Most manufacturers do offer some type of warranty on their inflatable kayaks ranging from a 1 year warranty to a 10 year warranty depending on the quality of the boat.
9. Price – Of course one of the most important features to compare with inflatable kayaks is price. With inflatable kayaks price can range from $100 all the way up to over $2000. There is truly an option for everyone’s budget.

For easy comparisons at a glance please see our:

• inflatable kayak comparison chart
• inflatable canoe comparison chart