Inflatable kayaks have completely revolutionized the kayaking industry. They’ve solved the problem of rigid kayak storage and transportation, as well as a number of other issues. They are, in addition, significantly less expensive than traditional hard shell kayaks. Inflatable kayaks are a great option to consider if you’re looking for your first or second kayak.
Read on to learn nine compelling reasons why inflatable kayaks are the way to go.
1. Easy to transport
The most significant benefit of inflatable kayaks is their portability. The inflatables are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for portability and travel. In terms of portability, check out what inflatable kayaks have to offer:
● You do not need a roof rack to transport it
The use of an inflatable kayak eliminates the need to transport and secure your kayak on a roof rack. When not in use, the inflatable kayak deflates into a rolling duffel bag or backpack that easily fits into the trunk of your car. In contrast to hard-shell kayaks, you won’t have to worry about your kayak falling off the top of your car due to insufficient securing or theft.
● Allow you to combine kayaking with backpacking, backcountry hiking, and camping
Because of their portability, inflatable kayaks enable you to combine kayaking, backpacking, backcountry hiking, and camping into one epic adventure. This cannot be accomplished with a hard-shell kayak because you will be unable to hike to many locations with it. Inflatable kayaks allow you to paddle and even fish in previously unexplored remote areas that other kayakers only fantasize about.
● Travel advantages
Inflatable kayaks enable you to go on kayaking adventures all over the world. You won’t have to worry about checking in at the airport or paying extra for your kayak to be transported.
2. Lightweight, thus good for children and women
Because of their lightweight, inflatable kayaks are simple to use. A solo inflatable kayak weighs approximately 32 pounds, which is nearly half the weight of a traditional kayak. There are even models that are only 10 pounds. This means it’s simple to transport and store wherever and whenever you want.
Inflatable kayaks also allow women and children to enjoy kayaking with less difficulty. They can carry the kayak without assistance.
3. Easy to store
Many kayak owners worry about where to store their kayak after they’ve finished exploring the waters, but this isn’t the case with inflatable kayaks. You can easily deflate and fold up an inflatable kayak and store it in a small space, such as under your bed, in a closet, or on a shelf in the shed or garage. When it’s time to go, you can stow your kayak in your RV, camper, or vehicle because they don’t take up much space.
4. Highly stable on waters
Inflatable kayaks have wider beams, flat bottoms, and air chambers, which make them buoyant and stable on the water. When you paddle on hard surfaces, the inflatables bounce off to keep you from flipping. As a result, inflatable kayaks are ideal for beginners and river paddling.
5. More durable
Inflatable kayaks are remarkably as durable as traditional kayaks. They are constructed with abrasion- and puncture-resistant materials such as denier ripstop polyester AIREcell urethane, HD40 gum, Pennel Orca, and aluminum frame reinforcement. Furthermore, the inflatables can bounce off hard surfaces, making puncturing them difficult.
The areas that take the most punishment are reinforced with extra layers of fabric to make them more durable. Construction techniques such as drop-stitch technology and PVC welded seams help to improve structural integrity even further. As a result, there are inflatable kayaks for dogs, so don’t worry about dog nails.
6. Comfortable with the ability to adjust body positioning
Unlike hard-shell kayaks, which have hard surfaces on which to sit, inflatable kayaks have a soft sitting floor that makes paddling for long periods of time more comfortable. The air-filled frames conform to your weight, allowing you to adjust your position as needed. The clip-in seats also support your back and allow you to recline for a leisurely paddle, preventing back pain after long hours of paddling.
The nice and soft edges that are easy on your body make hauling back to the kayak after a swim very comfortable. Hard shells do not have this advantage because the sharp edges can cause pain when hauling back to the kayak.
7. Highly versatile
Inflatable kayaks can be used in a variety of water bodies, including strong currents and rapids as well as slow, flat rivers. In addition, inflatable kayaks perform well in a variety of water depths, unlike traditional kayaks, which are difficult to paddle in very shallow waters. Simply select one that is appropriate for the waters you intend to explore for a fun-filled adventure.
8. Has high load capacity
Because of their buoyancy and wider beams, inflatable kayaks can carry more weight than rigid kayaks despite their lightweight. Some have a weight capacity of 750 pounds, allowing large-bodied paddlers to use their gear while remaining stable.
9. Affordable
Despite their numerous advantages, inflatable kayaks are significantly less expensive than their hard-shell counterparts. Forget about the less expensive models; you can get a high-quality, long-lasting inflatable kayak for half the price of a traditional kayak. If you want to get quality without breaking the bank, look for an inflatable kayak under $500.
How long do inflatable kayaks last?
Many factors, such as price and purpose, influence the durability of inflatable kayaks. Cheap kayaks are made of inferior materials that will wear out quickly. However, there are high-quality inflatable kayaks that can withstand rocks and fishing hooks for years. In general, if you take good care of your inflatable kayak, it should last you 5 to 10 years.
The following are some maintenance tips for your inflatable kayak that will increase its longevity:
- Always clean and dry your kayak before storage
- Store when deflated
- Fold your kayak in a different style each time
- Avoid keeping your vessel in direct sunlight
- Pack in the storage bag before stowing it away
- Keep the inflatable kayak in a cool and dry place free of rodents.
Do inflatable kayaks pop easily?
Because of the durable materials and cutting-edge technology used in their construction, high-quality inflatable kayaks do not easily pop, tear, or puncture. However, if you focus solely on price and end up with a low-cost inflatable kayak, you may be disappointed because it will pop after a few trips. However, recent inflatable kayaks have multiple air chambers to ensure that the kayak remains afloat even when punctured. This gives you enough time to reach the shore safely and inspect the damage.
How long does it take to inflate an inflatable kayak?
Inflating a kayak is easy and takes little time, depending on how you do it. It will take about 2 minutes to fully inflate your vessel if you use an electric pump. However, depending on the size of your kayak, using a hand or foot pump will take you 5-8 minutes to complete the task. As a result, having the best pump for inflatable kayaks is crucial.
Final Thoughts
Kayakers used to place a lot of faith in rigid kayaks, but those days are long gone! Due to their incredible benefits that rival their competitors, inflatable kayaks are quickly taking over the paddling industry. They are lightweight, making them highly portable, travel-friendly, require less storage space, and allow you to visit remote locations with ease. Furthermore, you won’t have to break the bank to get one; the kayaks are affordable while also being more stable, having a high load capacity, being comfortable, and being highly versatile.
About the author:
Name: Ally Mash
Bio: A world traveler and outdoor enthusiast, Ally has spent most of his free time backpacking through South America, Iceland, Vietnam, and Europe. His mission is to get more people in the mindset of protecting our planet by sharing its beauty with fellow adventurers like him on Adventures Pursuit!
