Durable Water Repellent for your Kayaking Clothes

When the warm months are over you can keep paddling if you are well protected from the elements. One of the key factors in staying happy and warm is to keep dry. This can be difficult especially if you live in a wet and cold fall/winter climate like I do.

It is important to have the right cold weather paddling clothes and once you have them you can use a Durable Water Repellent such as ReviveX in order to keep any water from leaking through.

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is used by technical clothing manufacturers in order to waterproof breathable outerwear such as:

• drysuits
• drytops
• splash wear
• rain gear
• ski and snowboarding jackets
• and all other wet and winter sports wear

What is Durable Water Repellent

• Durable Water Repellent is made up of chemical substances that bond with the individual fibers in the threads of the fabric.
• The chemical properties prevent water from soaking into the threads. The water will instead ‘bead up’ and roll off the fabric.
• In turn this keeps the spaces between the threads open and allows moisture from your body to escape more easily through the waterproof coating.

Although this type of water repellent works really well it does not last forever. Over time dirt, oil and abrasion will wear it down and possibly mask it.

When that happens the water will no longer bead up. Instead it will soak into the fibers and interfere with the breathability.

How to Use DWR

For paddling gear and clothing made from neoprene it is recommended to use a Durable Water Repellent spray that does not need heat in order to activate it. For an air dry water repellent spray follow the instructions below.

1. Machine wash garment: Close all zippers and Wash garment in warm water without detergent. If garment is heavily soiled, wash with detergent and rinse twice.
2. Spray: Place the garment on a hanger. Shake bottle well. Hold 6”-12” from garment and spray exterior of garment.
3. Allow to air dry.

What to do when your DWR wears off

If you suspect that your DWR treatment has worn off there are a few things you can do to get it back on and working again.

1. Clean the clothing garment with warm water thoroughly. Avoid detergents as these will interfere with DWR performance. If it is dirt that is masking the DWR, this will likely solve the problem and reactivate the water repellency.
2. Once your garment is dry again spray a little bit of water on it and watch to see if the water beads up. If not go to step 3.
3. Reapply the DWR treatment to the garment. Spray until evenly wet and follow the instructions on the bottle.

What Type of DWR to Use

Many DWR products require heat in order to activate it. For example they will require you to heat the garment in a clothes dryer after you have sprayed it on in order to set it.

However with most paddling gear that is made of neoprene or latex, heat is a very bad idea. Therefore for kayaking gear you should look for a Durable Water Repellent such as ReviveX Air Dry Water Repellent Spray that does not require heat in order to active it.

For more paddling tips see our Kayaking Tips & Advice Section.

How to Adjust your Inflatable Kayak Air Pressure

The air pressure of all inflatable kayaks and boats will change according to the weather. In very hot weather the air pressure of your inflatable will increase and in very cold weather or in heavy rain your inflatable will lose air pressure.

Knowing how to work with the changes in air pressure will make sure your inflatable kayak or inflatable boat performs well and lasts for a long time.

Weather Changes

Weather can change fairly dramatically even in one morning and this can affect the pressure of your kayak. For example you may start out on a cold morning but after a few hours the sun is shining and the temperature has heated up considerably.

In this example it would be wise to leave a little room for the air to expand because as the weather warms up your kayak will become rock hard.  If there is no room for the air to expand you will need to let some of the air out. If you do not let some air out the over pressurization can lead to major problems.

Time Frame

You might be wondering how long you should paddle before adjusting your air pressure in changing weather. Typically if you start off in cold weather and then paddle until lunch time you will want to adjust our pressure then – especially if your inflatable kayak is sitting out in the hot sun over lunch.

Cold Weather

If you are paddling in the winter time when the air and water are extremely cold then you just need to be aware of the pressure of your kayak.

Remember in cold weather you will lose air pressure. Therefore after you have paddled for a several hours you will likely need to check your air pressure and possibly add more air.

Hot Weather

In very hot weather remember that the air pressure of your inflatable kayak will expand. Therefore it is wise to leave a little room for air expansion when you first inflate it. If you paddle for a few hours, you can then take a break and let a little air out.

Consequences of Air Pressure Change

When the air pressure of your inflatable kayak changes this can cause some significant consequences.

For example if you are kayaking in very hot weather and the air begins to expand in your kayak, it will become over-pressurized which will cause major stress on the seams. If you should then happen to hit a sharp object with enough force you may puncture the material and run the risk of one of your tubes exploding.

In cold weather when the air pressure decreases you basically just run the risk of paddling a very sluggish kayak. It will perform far better if you stay aware of the air pressure and add more air if needed.

How Much of an Issue is This?

It is completely normal for all inflatable kayaks and inflatable boats to have changes in the air pressure depending on the weather.

The high quality inflatable’s today are made very tough and can often handle higher air pressures than suggested by the manufacturer without having any noticeable effects.

However over time too much air pressure will cause strain and eventually damage to your kayak seams and can shorten the life of your boat.

I think if you simply stay aware of the air pressure of your inflatable kayak and cognisant of the weather changes you will not likely have any problems and you will keep your kayak performing at its best level.

For  more informative articles see our Inflatable Kayak Tips & Advice page.

Best Inflatable Kayaks for Taller People

If you are a taller person (approx. 6’2” or taller) looking for an inflatable kayak that offers enough leg room and comfort, there are a few options to choose from.

Many solo models may leave you feeling cramped therefore it would be wise to take a look at the convertible inflatable kayaks. A convertible model is a tandem kayak that can be converted for solo use.

Normally with a convertible kayak the second seat can be removed and you will be able to move the other seat to the middle of the kayak. That way you will have ample leg room and very likely still room left over for gear or cargo.

Convertible Inflatable Kayaks

Some of the popular convertible inflatable kayak models that would work well for taller people are:

• Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible – The AdvancedFrame Convertible is a very popular model that has the option of many great accessories. This model is a little on the heavy side but otherwise is good for lake or ocean kayaking.

• Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack – The FastTrack is good for kayaking on lakes, calm ocean or easy rivers and offers ample room for long legs and gear. If you feel you need even more space this model also comes in a longer 3-seat version. The FastTrack is light enough to easily carry and offers great tracking and speed.

• Innova Sunny – The Sunny is ideal for flat water kayaking as well as for traveling as it is fairly lightweight. It is known to be one of the faster inflatable kayaks and offers great quality.

• Sea Eagle 380X – This inflatable kayak also comes in two other size options so there is one to suit each persons needs. It is quite versatile as it can handle any type of water which is handy although it tends to be a jack of all trades and a master at none.

• Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2 – The tandem StraitEdge kayak is suitable for whitewater and for some flat water paddling. The StraitEdge 2 is self-bailing and very stable.

• Tributary Strike II – The Strike is also a jack of all trades but a master at none. This inflatable kayak is very stable and comfortable although it does not paddle all that fast.

Solo Inflatable Kayaks

If you prefer just a solo inflatable kayak, the longer models that would also work for taller people are:

• Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition – Good for lake or ocean kayaking.

• Tributary Sawtooth I – Good for flat water kayaking and offers great speed.

Each of the above models would suit the needs of a person that is over 6 feet tall. The convertible models also tend to work well for a taller person if paddling with a partner.

I have a friend who is 6’4” tall who kayaks very comfortable with me in my Sea Eagle FastTrack. The trick is to have the taller person sit up front where there is far more leg room. There is not as much leg room from the back seat so the shorter person should sit back there.

For a complete list of inflatable kayak sizes please see our inflatable kayak comparison charts.

Inflatable Kayak FAQ – part 2

I have a collection of inflatable kayak questions that have either been asked or that I have come across at some point.

Below are some more questions and answers to build on our first inflatable kayak FAQ article that will hopefully be helpful for those new to inflatable kayaking.

Inflatable Kayak Q & A

Q1 What type of cleaner can I use on my inflatable kayak?

A1 It can be cleaned with any mild household cleaner. To remove tough stains, oil or dirt that you can not get off with your regular cleaner, use an inflatable boat cleaner which can be purchased from most inflatable kayak stores.

Q2 How do I protect my inflatable kayak material from wear and tear?

A2 Use a 303 protectant spray on your inflatable kayak material from time to time. This will protect the material from UV damage and exposure to the elements. One bottle of 303 protectant will last a very long time and can be purchased at most inflatable kayak stores.

Q3 How do I repair a pin hole?

A3 A pin hole leak is very easy to repair and can be done quite quickly. Use the patch kit and glue that came with your kayak. Follow instructions and allow glue to dry, then you will be on your way.

Q4 How do I inflate a Boston Valve?

Q4 Boston valves are very common with inflatable kayaks. In order to inflate your kayak, unscrew the square top while pulling up and attach the hose for the pump. When deflating your kayak push the square top in while twisting the top of the valve. You will hear the air being released.

Q5 How long will my inflatable kayak last?

A5 The life of your inflatable kayak will depend on a few different factors such as the quality of construction, how often it is used, how it is stored and the amount of abuse it endures. If you purchase a decent quality inflatable boat, keep the material protected with a 303 protectant spray, store it away from sunlight and weather exposure, then your inflatable will likely last you a very long time. For most kayakers, an inflatable kayak can last a lifetime with a little care. You will likely want to upgrade to a new model before your inflatable kayak is ever fully worn out.

Q6 How should I store my kayak when not in use?

A6 Inflatable kayaks are extremely easy to store away. It will pack up nice and small and fit into the duffle bag that came with it and can be stored in a garage, in a closet or anywhere else you choose to keep it. Whether you deflate your kayak or keep it inflated when not in use is up to you. The important thing is to make sure it is dried out before packing it away in order to prevent mold and mildew as well as to keep it away from exposure to the elements.

Q7 Why does my kayak keep going in circles?

A7 Inflatable kayaks tend to be fairly light weight and therefore are susceptible to being pulled by wind and currents. Normally this can be controlled by using a skeg, rudder or directional device. This will control the kayak and keep it tracking straight. Most open water inflatable kayaks come with a skeg or have the option of adding a directional device.

Q8 Could my inflatable kayak leak from anywhere else besides from a tear?

A8 Every now and then it is wise to check around all the valves and seams. Wear and tear can happen and although a leak around the valves or seams would likely be minor it is a good idea to check them once in awhile. Use a spray bottle with a soapy solution and spray around these areas when the kayak is inflated. Anywhere you see bubbles will be a leak. These types of leaks are normally easily patched up with just glue and possibly a small piece of material from your repair kit.

Q9 Do I need to register my kayak?

A9 Normally only boats that use a motor need to be registered. If you are considering adding a motor to your kayak you will want to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles for the requirements in your area as they can vary from district to district.

Q10 What is the average warranty for an inflatable kayak?

A10 The warranty of your kayak will depend on the make and model. They run anywhere from 1 year up to 10 years. Most of our reviews will state the warranty of the individual models.

For specific details on the individual kayak models please see our inflatable kayak reviews.

Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak FAQ

Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks have and likely always will be some of the most popular inflatable kayak models. Every single one of their models has a great design and a nice look as well as very affordable prices.

As far as quality of construction, warranty and performance are concerned they lag behind some of the more expensive brands but for most recreational paddlers their inflatable kayaks and inflatable canoe work just fine.  If you are considering an Advanced Elements kayak then the below frequently asked questions should be helpful.

Advanced Elements FAQ

How long is the Advanced Elements warranty?
Each of the AE inflatable kayaks and canoes come with a limited one year warranty. You can register your warranty online or fill out the warranty registration that comes with the owner’s manual, and mail it in.

How many models do they have to choose from?
At this time there are 11 different kayaks and canoes to choose from. Some are for solo paddling and others are for tandem paddling.

Can I buy direct from Advanced Elements
AE only sells through retails stores. Please see our individual inflatable kayak reviews to see a list of which online retailers sell the specific models.

Do their kayaks come with a carry case?
Yes each one of the AE kayaks and canoes comes with an easy to carry, heavy-duty duffel bag for transportation and storage.

What size pump do I need?
The ¾” pump fitting is universal to all valves on Advanced Elements kayaks. A regular bellows foot pump works great. You can also use a 12v electric pump but you will need to top off the air pressure with a foot pump or a double action hand pump for full inflation. This is because a 12v pump works great to get the inflation started but has the possibility of bursting the kayak if pumped too far. With a foot pump or a hand pump it is impossible to burst your kayak and they will make sure it is inflated as rigid as it can be.

Are the Advanced Elements kayaks self-bailing?
The majority of their kayaks are dry boats meaning they are not self-bailing. The only boat that is self-bailing is the StraitEdge kayak as it is designed for rivers and whitewater use. This kayak has the option of opening the ports for drainage or keeping them closed for flat water use.

How long do the AE kayaks take to inflate?
Once you know what you are doing it takes approximately five minutes to inflate any of their kayaks with a foot pump.

Should I use a UV fabric protector?
It is recommended that you use a UV protectant spray with any inflatable kayak as it has shown to prolong the life of the material when it is exposed to sunlight and other environmental factors.

What is the best way to clean my kayak?
Wash it off with fresh water and let it air dry before soaking up any hard to get at wet spots with a towel and a sponge. You can also use an inflatable kayak cleaner that can be purchased at most inflatable boat stores which will help to remove any stains.

How easily can the AE kayaks be punctured?
Advanced Elements uses reinforced PVC fabric and hi-density fabrics for a strong construction. In order to puncture the main chamber from the bottom of the kayak you would need to pierce through three layers of material… this is not easy to do.

Why does air leak out when I remove the pump from the valve?
If air is leaking out when you remove the pump this is because the valve is in the deflate position. Make sure you twist the plunger so that it is no longer pushed in as this will stop any air from getting out as you inflate your kayak. See the owner’s manual for proper inflation and deflation techniques.

What is the easiest way to re-pack my inflatable kayak into its carry bag?
The kayak will be easiest to pack up once all the air is out of it. You can either reverse your pump and suck the air out of it or simply unlock the valves and work the air out with your hands. I usually lie down on top of the kayak and work the air out through the valves… it only takes seconds. Then follow the folding instructions in your owner’s manual.

Where can I order accessories for my inflatable kayak?
Accessories can typically be ordered from wherever you purchased your kayak from.

Where can I order replacement parts for my Advanced Elements kayak?
Replacement parts will need to be ordered directly from the manufacturer website.

What is the best way to store my kayak?
If you will be using it continually it doesn’t matter if you store it inflated or deflated. Just keep it out of direct sunlight and in a cool dry area. If it will be stored for a longer period of time then make sure it is completely dried out (so you don’t get any mold or mildew), deflate it and store it in the carry bag in a cool dry area.

See a complete list of Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks as well as pictures and comprehensive reviews of each model.

Inflatable Kayaking Do’s & Don’ts

You will learn fairly quickly after a few outings what to do and not to do on your kayaking trips. For any brand new paddlers out there it might help to know some key do’s and don’ts that will make your first few paddling adventures enjoyable and safe.

Inflatable Kayaking Do’s

• Tell someone where you are going and roughly what time you expect to be back.

• Load your kayak carefully so that the weight is distributed fairly evenly. More weight at the back is better then more weight at the front.

• Pack your pump and repair kit in a dry bag and bring it in the inflatable kayak with you.

• Make sure your inflatable kayak is inflated to full capacity. If there is not enough air in it, it will not be as rigid as it should be and therefore could be quite sluggish.

• Stay close to shore. If you are kayaking in the ocean or on a lake it is wise to paddle along the shore line. If winds pick up you could have a hard time making it back. Keeping the shoreline well in sight is a very wise thing to do.

• Bring clean drinking water with you… enough so you won’t run out.

• Bring layers of clothing. Even if the weather is warm it is a good idea to pack extra clothing away in your dry bag so that you are prepared for any type of weather should it change quickly or your plans get off course.

• Bring a hat – rain or shine, it will protect your head and your face.

• Bring your cell phone. It may be difficult to tell if you will be within cell phone range but bring it anyway just in case.

• Bring a whistle. If you are ever in trouble, a whistle is a great way to get others attention.

• Sunscreen!! The hot sun and reflection on the water can do some serious damage to your skin. If you plan on being out for hours, you may need to reapply your sunscreen often.

Inflatable Kayaking Don’ts

• Don’t run into sharp objects. Most inflatable kayaks are built extremely sturdy but there is no point hitting sharp objects if they can be avoided. Steer around sticks and debris in the water.

• Don’t drag your inflatable kayak over rocks and gravel unless you have to. Again most are built to handle this, but there is no sense scratching up the bottom of the kayak unless it is absolutely necessary. Try and carry the kayak to the water if possible.

• Don’t disturb the wildlife. One of the best parts of kayaking is viewing the wildlife. The last thing we want to do is disturb their environment. Look, take pictures, but let them be.

• Don’t bring alcohol in the kayak. Drinking alcohol while kayaking can cause all sorts of problems. For one it can cause some serious dehydration while out in the sun as well as make paddling a real chore. Keep your focus, take your time, stay hydrated and leave the alcohol for when you get home.

• Don’t get toppled by waves. Waves are easy to deal with… just take them head on. When you see larger waves coming your way, turn your kayak so that you face the wave and just ride it out. If you take it sideways, you risk being overturned.

• Don’t drink the water. Obviously you wouldn’t do that in the ocean but if you are kayaking in a lake or river you may be tempted. Unfortunately the water in most waterways is NOT drinkable. Bring your own clean water and leave the rest for the fish.

• Don’t stand up to try and swap places if you are kayaking tandem. Though it is possible to do this, it is not recommended. There is a very good chance that at least one of you will end up in the water. Wait until you can get to some shore to change places.

• If you decide to take a break and dock on some shore, don’t leave your kayak too close to the water unattended. Tides can change and you may come back to find your kayak floating a long ways away.

• Don’t get too close to motor boats. A noisy motor boat can be annoying on a peaceful kayaking trip but they are often sharing the waterway with us. Being in a kayak we are not as noticeable to them as they are to us. Stay well out of the way of other boats as it is not always so easy to move out of the way quickly.

• Don’t fall asleep in your kayak. One of the most amazing feelings on a warm and beautiful day can be do detach your kayak seat and lay out in the open water in your kayak… very peaceful!. However be careful not to fall asleep as you never know where you might end up or what could happen.

Hopefully these do’s and don’ts of inflatable kayaking will help to make your first few paddling experiences good ones. Once you get more comfortable with what you are doing, you will learn very quickly what works for you and what doesn’t. The key things to remember are to always go prepared for anything, play it safe and always stay focused.

Find the right kayak for you by reading our comprehensive inflatable kayak reviews.

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

Can Dogs Go in an Inflatable Kayak?

This is a question that gets asked often. If you love to kayak and you have a dog, it is natural to want to bring your dog kayaking with you.

Can an inflatable kayak handle the claws of a dog?

The answer is YES. Most inflatable kayaks are built tough… really tough. They are more than able to handle dogs paws and claws.

I would recommend putting down some sort of blanket or pad that your dog is used to already in order for him to be more comfortable in the kayak. However even without, you do not have to worry about the dog puncturing the inflatable material.

There are certain inflatable kayak manufacturers that I would recommend over others for dogs. These are:

• Sea Eagle
• AIRE
• NRS
• Innova
• Airis
• Tributary
• Advanced Elements

In the inflatable kayak world, the above listed companies offer the highest quality inflatable boats. They all come with warranties and are backed by solid reputations. There is quite a range of models and prices so it will not be hard to find one that suits your budget as well as your needs.

If you do plan on taking your dog kayaking with you there are certain guidelines that are wise to follow.

1. Never leash your dog to the kayak. This poses a serious safety risk for your dog should the kayak tip or should the dog try to jump out. This is an extremely important thing to remember as it could cause your dog to drown.
2. Always have your dog wear a lifejacket. A doggy pfd is essential for your dogs safety. Even if your dog is a good swimmer, a pfd will help if your dog gets tired or if the boat capsizes.
3. Bring the essentials… meaning water for your dog, treats and safety equipment.
4. Have patience when practicing training your dog to get into your inflatable kayak and to stay seated while you kayak. This may take a little time to master, so have patience with your furry friend.

For much more information and tips on taking your dog kayaking please read our post Kayaking with your Dog.

Random Facts on Inflatable Kayaks

I have a list of totally random notes that I had been collecting on inflatable kayaks that I thought I may use in an article at some point. After just reading through them I realized maybe I should just make my notes into one single post.

Here are some totally random but useful facts about inflatable kayaks that may be of interest.

• When traveling with your inflatable kayak most airlines will not guarantee the safety of your kayak if it is just stored in its regular duffel bag. Put it in a traveling duffel bag or a small suitcase for protection.

• Quickest way to pump up your inflatable kayak is with an electric pump (it doesn’t need to cost any more than $20 or $30). After it is pumped up top it off with a hand or foot pump so that it is rigid and hard for maximum performance.  Check out our  inflatable kayaks pumps page.

• To prevent your inflatable kayak from getting moldy wipe it down with a towel then let it air dry awhile before deflating it and storing it away.

• AIRE is still the only inflatable kayak company that fixes damage free of charge on their American made products.

• AIRE is known to produce the highest quality and most trustworthy inflatable kayaks in the world.

• NRS kayaks are often used as rentals by outfitters.

• Innova inflatable kayaks have actually been in production for decades but under the parent company which is located in the Czech Republic. The North American branch was founded in 1992 by three friends who had a goal of importing durable and affordable inflatable kayaks for the average consumer that provide quality that would satisfy even the most avid kayaker.

• Inflatable kayaks are practically unsinkable – even when they are full of water.

• Inflatable kayaks are now used by the US Coast Guards and the Army/Navy.

• A 303 UV protectant will help your inflatable kayak to last for many, many years with very little sun damage.

• If you have an inflatable kayak or are going to purchase one, leave a review once you have used it as this is the most helpful way for others to make an informed decision as to which kayak is right for them.

Check out our comprehensive reviews for detailed info on specific inflatable kayaks.

Inflatable Kayak Pros & Cons

It seems that people either love inflatable kayaks or they hate them. I have been kayaking for many years, most often in a hard shell kayak. The last few years however have been almost exclusively in an inflatable kayak and I can honestly say that I love it.

When I speak to other kayaking friends… particularly those who have only ever paddled in a traditional hard-shell kayak… I am met with a fair amount of negativity towards the inflatable kayak.

I would love to say that those folks are simply ignorant to the wonderful conveniences and benefits of owning an inflatable kayak but the truth is there are pros and cons to both paddling in an inflatable as well as in a hard-shell kayak. Which one works best for you is a matter of personal choice but let’s get the facts straight and go through the pros and cons of using an inflatable kayak.

Pro Inflatable Kayak

• Easily stores in small spaces – Unlike hard-shell kayaks, an inflatable can be deflated and packed into its storage bag and stored in a closet. For any of us who live in a condo or a small space we can easily store our kayak away with absolutely no problems.

• Very easy to transport – I have spent many years roping down a hard-shell kayak onto the roof of the car. I never enjoyed doing it and was always looking for help. With an inflatable I can put it in the trunk of my car or possibly even carry it in a backpack if it is light enough (as some are). I can also take an inflatable kayak on an airplane and enjoy using it while on vacation. That is an awesome convenience and thrill if you love to explore foreign waterways. Many people also love to take their inflatable kayak in their RV for this same reason.

• Extremely rugged construction – Against popular belief there are many inflatable kayak manufacturers today that make high quality, rugged kayaks that can take a real beating and last a very long time. They are no longer the pool toys of yesterday, they are real boats that can withstand a lot of abuse… including dog paws.

• Inexpensive – On average an inflatable kayak will cost less than a hard-shell kayak. Especially for those only wanting a kayak for recreational use the cost of an inflatable can be ideal.

• Good Performance – Performance can vary depending on the quality of inflatable kayak you have purchased. However most will give a decent performance, track well and some are even able to reach some high speeds. The performance of these boats are improving every year and some can give a hard-shell a run for its money.

• Lightweight – The great thing about an inflatable kayak is that it typically doesn’t way a lot but can hold a fair amount of weight. A solo inflatable kayak can usually be easily carried by one person and is much easier to get to the water than a hard-shell

• They are a lot of fun! – There are inflatable kayaks for all types of water and above all else they offer a lot of fun. No matter what your age, an inflatable kayak can be paddled by everyone. They are stable and safe as well as great for families, dogs and fishing. Everyone I know who has tried an inflatable kayak has greatly enjoyed the experience.

Against Inflatable Kayaks

• Speed – The first complaint most people come up with is the fact that inflatable kayaks can rarely reach the speed of a really good hard-shell kayak. That may be true but sometimes it is not always important to be the fastest boat in the water and I know for myself I have been in a lot of hard-shell kayaks that weren’t going to get me anywhere too fast.

• Possibility of Popping – Though there is the possibility of “popping” your inflatable kayak if you hit a very sharp object, it is unlikely. In any event if it should occur all inflatable boats come with a repair kit so you can easily patch it up and continue on. Overall the maintenance to an inflatable as compared to a hard-shell is very little.

• Width – One valid complaint about inflatable kayaks is they tend to be wider then a regular kayak. The width will allow for more stability but will also take away from the speed. I personally don’t mind as I have no desire to be dunked under water but I know some avid kayakers love their long sleek paddling machines.

As you can see overall there are more positives than negatives. I think if more people would give the inflatable kayak a chance they may learn to love it as well and cherish it for its many wonderful conveniences.

What is your opinion on the inflatable kayak?… love it or hate it?

Trying to figure out which kayak is right for you? Check out our comprehensive inflatable kayak reviews.

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