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.

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.

Cheap Inflatable Kayaks

I would classify a cheap inflatable kayak as one that can be purchased for under $500. Sometimes we don’t want to spend a lot of money on a boat if we are not going to become avid kayakers. If you are looking for an inflatable kayak to pull out a few times a year for some paddling fun or perhaps to bring along with you on camping trips with the family you may not want to invest a lot of money.

There are some really excellent choices for inflatable kayaks that cost less than $500 that will last a fairly long time. Just because you are not spending a $1000 or more does not mean that you will be getting a glorified pool toy. Inflatable kayaks have come a long way as far as quality and performance are concerned and there are some really good name brand cheap inflatable kayaks. Read more

Best Inflatable Kayaks for Traveling

If you have considered bringing an inflatable kayak along on your travels there are a few things to consider…

• Weight
• Size
• Inflation time
• Will you be kayaking solo or tandem?
• Type of water you will be kayaking in

It is a really fantastic idea to bring along an inflatable kayak and it allows you the convenience of stopping to kayak anywhere your travels take you. Often times when you rent kayaks you are limited to where you can go and for how long. Having an inflatable along for the ride means that you can hop into any river, lake or ocean and explore areas and scenery you would not have been able to otherwise. Read more

Sea Eagle Kayaks

Sea Eagle is an inflatable boat manufacturing company that has been in business for over 40 years. Their company is about as solid and long lasting as the boats they design and manufacture.

They have four different types of inflatable kayaks, the Sport Kayaks, the Explorer Kayaks, the FastTrack and the Paddleski – all of which are some of the absolute best selling models on the market. Their kayaks are designed to last and to provide a great combination of functionality, convenience and a lot of fun. They are hugely popular and for good reason Sea Eagle is one of my favorite inflatable kayak companies.

Sea Eagle kayaks are unique in that they can paddle well on both flatwater as well as whitewater.  The Explorer kayaks can handle whitewater with up to class IV rapids.  These boats are impressive and come with an excellent guarantee.

Below are the 7 Models of Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayaks…

• Sea Eagle 330 Sport Kayak – This is the smaller sport model. It is a tandem model but seats can be adjusted for solo as well. Basic in design, this kayak is self-bailing and extremely lightweight.

• Sea Eagle 370 Sport Kayak – The 370 is slightly larger than the 330 and much more comfortable for two people. Good for beginner to novice kayakers.

• Sea Eagle 340 Explorer Kayak – The smallest of the explorer kayaks, this model is unbelievably rugged, solid, fun and perfect for extreme whitewater fun or flatwater paddling.

• Sea Eagle 380 Explorer Kayak – The 380X explorer kayak offers more room for two people and a huge load capacity. Can handle all water conditions.

• Sea Eagle 420 Explorer Kayak – Largest of the explorer kayaks, excellent for families, dogs, or long expeditions. Massive load capacity.

• Sea Eagle FastTrack – The FastTrack was new out in April of 2010 and is faster, sleeker and lighter than the Explorer Kayaks. It is a tandem inflatable kayak that can also be paddled solo and is quickly becoming extremely popular.

• Sea Eagle Paddleski – Very unique in design, this kayak can be used for paddling, rowing, fishing, or motoring. Extreme versatility and great performance.

Why are Sea Eagle Kayaks so Special?

There are five main reasons that Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks are among the best selling out there.

1. They all come with an excellent 3 year warranty
2. Sea Eagle kayaks are all self-bailing and can perform well in many different water conditions
3. Their kayaks are extremely solid and have been tested over and over by slamming the sharp end of a hammer into them… with absolutely no punctures
4. Their kayaks are functional as well as very affordable
5. Sea Eagle is known for being a phenomenal inflatable boat company with a reputation for excellent customer service and great boats

Sea Eagle Kayak Material

The Sea Eagle sport kayaks are made with extra thick 33 mil PolyKrylar and I-Beam construction floor for extra rigidity. For a base model, these kayaks are superb quality and can take a real beating.

The Explorer kayaks and the FastTrack are made with 1000 denier polyester-supported high pressure fabric with quadruple thickness electronic welded seams. That means that these kayaks have such thick and rugged material that they will likely last you a lifetime.

The Paddleski is made with 1100 Decitex reinforced seam, a quadruple overlap seam floor and a 2000 denier reinforced material air valves.

Being in business for over 40 years mean that Sea Eagle knows what they are doing. Their inflatable kayaks are built to last and to be able to handle practically any situation. Their materials are solid.

Are there any negatives to Sea Eagle Kayaks?

Admittedly I am a big fan of Sea Eagle inflatable kayaks… especially their explorer kayaks. These kayaks are solid and they are extremely functional. If I had to point out a couple of negatives I would say that they are not the fastest kayaks on the market and the tracking could be a bit better… except that has now been improved upon with their new FastTrack model.

Final Thoughts on Sea Eagle Kayaks…

I find the sport kayaks to be a bit basic but great for newbies who want a very affordable and compact inflatable kayak to start out with. The Explorer kayaks, the FastTrack and the Paddleski are great for all different types of adventures including camping, traveling, expeditions, whitewater paddling, flatwater recreation, families, dogs, fishing, etc. You name it, these inflatable kayaks will can do it. They are not the absolute best performance wise, but they do paddle well and are excellent quality for the money paid. I would highly recommend them.

Read our comprehensive Sea Eagle kayak reviews for more detailed information and pictures.

OR view other inflatable kayak reviews.

Sevylor Pointer K2 – New Review

The Sevylor Pointer K2 has been added to our tandem recreational inflatable kayak category.  It is the first Sevylor that we have done a comprehensive review on.  I don’t get too excited about the Sevylor boats as I don’t find their quality to be as good as the Advanced Elements, Sea Eagle or the Innova kayaks.  However the Pointer K2 is worth looking at if you are a brand new kayaker and want an affordable boat to paddle with. Read more

Inflatable Kayaks that Hold 500 Pounds or More

If you are looking for an inflatable kayak that can hold one heck of a lot of gear then you have a few different options. Below is a list of inflatable kayaks that can hold over 500 pounds and keep on gliding through the water smoothly with absolutely no problem. These are all tandem kayaks as they tend to be the ones that can hold more weight.

Inflatable Kayaks that can Hold over 500 lbs

• Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible – Weight Capacity 550 lbs
  Great for recreational paddling and can be converted to a solo kayak. This kayak is affordable and sturdy. Gear can be tied down on the front of the kayak with the bungee cords or stored in the second cockpit. Read full review for Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible.

• Sea Eagle 340X – Weight Capacity 600 lbs
  Rugged, versatile and stable. Not a super fast kayak but excellent for exploring, expeditions, camping, fishing and wilderness kayaking. Read full review for Sea Eagle 340X.

• Sea Eagle 370 – Weight Capacity 650 lbs
  Though this kayak can hold a lot of weight there is not much room to store any gear unless it is being paddled solo. However it is super light weight and can be taken anywhere very easily. Read full review Sea Eagle 370.

• Sea Eagle PaddleSki – Weight Capacity 650 lbs
  Very versatile and can be used for paddling, rowing, sailing, motoring or fishing. It holds a ton of weight and weighs only – 49 – 57 lbs (depending on the size you get). Read full review Sea Eagle PaddleSki.

• Sea Eagle 380X – Weight Capacity 750 lbs
  The ultimate exploration kayak. It can easily hold up to 750 pounds it is highly stable and totally rugged. It can handle whitewater rapids as well as flatwater. Not a fast kayak but versatile none the less. Read full review  Sea Eagle 380X.

• Aire Sea Tiger – Weight Capacity 750 lbs
  This is a touring sea kayak that comes with a phenomenal ten year warranty. It tracks beautifully and gives a great performance. It is a little heavy weighing 61 lbs but works great for fishing, scuba-diving and even snorkeling. Read full review Aire Sea Tiger.

• Sea Eagle 420X – Weight Capacity 853 lbs
  The 420X is largest of Sea Eagle’s explorer kayaks. There is no other inflatable kayak that can hold this much weight. This kayak has tons of room for two adults plus possibly a child or dog and lots of gear. Good for whitewater or flatwater. Read full review Sea Eagle 420X.

Inflatable Kayaks that Hold Exactly 500 Pounds

• Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2 – Weight Capacity 500 lbs
  This is a self-bailing whitewater kayak that also tracks decently on open. Not a lot of room for storage but is not a bad option. Read full review Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2.

• Sea Eagle 330 – Weight Capacity 500 lbs
  Can hold a lot of weight but there is truly no room for gear storage unless it is paddled solo. Good beginner kayak. Read full review Sea Eagle 330.

Hopefully this list helps if you are looking for an inflatable kayak that can hold a ton of weight and get you to your destination without having to swim. Check out our extensive inflatable kayak comparison chart for more stats and details.

Stand Up Paddle Board Test Drive Interrupted by Storm

I saw people using a stand up paddle board for the first time in Hawaii. I was hooked the second I saw it. I knew I would love this sport. I am not a surfer. To be honest the thought of surfing and being plummeted under water scares me to death. Needless to say I didn’t seem to be born with any daredevil genes. However to use a stand up paddle board… to paddle in the ocean or along a river or lake looked and seemed thrilling. The benefits of doing a core exercise like this are numerous and it looked to be a lot of fun.

A good friend of mine recently ordered the inflatable longboard from Sea Eagle. As I have been dying to try the Sea Eagle longboard myself, I headed over as soon as it arrived to take it out for a test spin. I arrived prepared and excited. The sun was blaring, it was hot and gorgeous… Read more

Inflatable Kayak Online Retailers

Listed below are the online retailers for inflatable kayaks and for kayaking gear and accessories. 

• Sea Eagle
• Mountain Plus
• NRS
• Amazon
• Altrec Outdoors
• Innova
• Backcountry
• Water Outfitters
• REI
• West Marine

When making a purchase online, especially a large one like an inflatable kayak, it is important that you are purchasing from a 100% secure, reputable and established website. The ten outdoor recreation stores listed here are some of the very best. Not only have they been around for a long time, they also provide phenomenal customer service, most of them have outdoor gear specialists ready to answer any of your questions and also have the best prices and deals. Read below for detailed information on each company.

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Sea Eagle – Inflatable Kayaks

• Been around for 40+ years.
• Sell only top quality, rugged inflatable boats.
• Great selection of inflatable boats and kayaks for all different types of water activities including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, sailing, motoring, stand-up paddling and yachting.
• 3 year warranty on all of their boats!
• Offer a 180 day risk free trial.
• Excellent prices – often have great sales.
• Lots of excellent pictures of real people using their boats and customer videos.
• Good FAQ page.
• Offer some used inflatable boats at a discounted price.
• Free shipping within the contiguous US (for boat packages).
• Will ship to Canada and Internationally.
• Downloadable instructions available on their site for the boat your purchase as well as video instructions.
• Very helpful customer service.
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Sea Eagle

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Mountain Plus – Inflatable Kayaks

• Phenomenal site for any outdoor enthusiast.
• Carries not only inflatable kayaks but all kayak and outdoor gear and accessories.
• Free shipping on any order over $45.
• Excellent international shipping rates – some of the cheapest I’ve seen.
• Most of their inflatable kayaks come with a free electric pump!
• Excellent online live help for any questions or concerns you have.
• Great outlet section with sales up to 60% off.
• Mountain Plus blog.
• Established online store since 1995, nearly 15 years.
• The Mountain Plus team will bend over backwards to make sure you receive excellent customer service.
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Advanced Elements, Aire, NRS, Tributary

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NRS – Inflatable Kayaks

• Founded in 1972.
• Excellent resource for kayaking information.
• Always lots of sale items.
• Excellent customer service.
• Every kayaking gear option you can think of.
• Will Ship to Canada and Internationally.
• Rock solid guarantee. Return or exchange any item you are not satisfied with.
• Gift cards available.
• Fast & very low priced shipping.
• Inflatable Kayak brands available: NRS, Aire, Tributary

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Amazon – Inflatable Kayaks

• Usually has a decent selection of different inflatable kayaks
• Sometimes have some good sales prices
• Huge website with very established reputation
• Also sell just about anything else you can think of
• Can ship all over the world
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Usually carries most inflatable kayak brands

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Altrec Outdoors – Inflatable Kayaks

• Good outlet section with savings up to 80% off.
• Free shipping on orders over $45 in the contiguous U.S.
• Will ship to Canada and Internationally.
• 100% lifetime guarantee – Return for a refund at anytime if you not are happy.
• Exceptionally fast delivery.
• Excellent customer service.
• Price Match Plus guarantee – If you find an identical product offered by another US authorized online retailer, they will beat their price by 5% of the difference.
• Live chat available with a customer service rep/gear specialist.
• Great selection of doggie water gear.
• Established online outdoor gear store since early 1999.
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Advanced Elements, Aire, NRS, Tributary, Innova, Trak

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Innova – Inflatable Kayaks

• European inflatable touring kayaks as well as whitewater inflatable kayaks and canoes
• Based out of Burlington, WA
• Most of Innova kayaks are made PVC-free – better for the environment
• One of the original producers of high end inflatable kayaks
• Very popular on the West Coast
• Sells all of the Innova brand inflatable kayaks as well as clothes, PFD’s and equipment
• Excellent customer service and very knowledgeable staff
• On-site blog with pictures, stories and news
• 2 year warranty on all Innova kayaks
• Shipping to all over the world
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Innova

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Backcountry – Inflatable Kayaks

• Free shipping on orders over $50 within the contiguous U.S.
• Will ship to Canada and Internationally.
• 100% guarantee – If you are ever not satisfied with your gear at anytime, even 30 years from now, send it back for a full refund.
• Live chat available with a customer service rep/gear expert.
• Gift certificates available.
• They have a great blog available on their website.
• Excellent customer service.
• Voted one of the top 50 internet retailers.
• Great outlet store on the website with huge savings.
• Good selection of UV protective clothing.
• Inflatable kayak brands available: NRS, Tributary, Aire

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Water Outfitters – Inflatable Kayaks

Have good selection of inflatable kayaks and canoes as well as tons of kayak gear and accessories

Michigan based retailer – online store been around since 1997 – 12 years

Gift certificates available

No hassle returns within 30 days

Free shipping for orders over $99, excluding Hobie within the contiguous U.S.

International shipping available

100% secure shopping

Earn powder points with every purchase to put toward future purchases

Inflatable kayak brands available: Hobie, Bic, Advanced Elements, Stearns

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REI – Inflatable Kayaks

• Huge outdoor gear storeStarted by 23 climbers in 1938
• 80-plus stores all over the U.S. as well as their huge online store
• Great outlet selection
• 100% satisfaction guarantee – if you are not satisfied with your purchase it can be returned for a full refund
• Option to become an REI member with lots of benefits
• Great expert advice
• International shipping
• Free shipping to any one of the REI stores where you can pick it up from there
• Gear and accessories for paddling, cycling, climbing, hiking, camping, travel and fitness
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Aire, Advanced Elements, Airis, Innova

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West Marine – Inflatable Kayaks

• $2.95 shipping on any order over $99
• International shipping available
• Marine store with good inflatable kayak selection
• One of the world’s largest boating supply retailers
• Been around for a very long time
• Excellent reputation
• Besides being an online retailer they have over 375 stores in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada
• No hassle returns – if you are ever dissatisfied with your purchase they will replace it
• Excellent customer service
• Very passionate about making sure the customer has a good experience and with providing great products
• Inflatable kayak brands available: Airis, Sevylor, West Marine kayaks

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