The adventurous season of the year is quickly approaching. You can't help but start planning how you're going to spend it with your friends or family. Well, your summer won't be much fun without kayaking adventures. But kayaking will only be an intriguing and personal adventure if you start preparing early.

If you're planning to kayak for the first time, then you need to stop the misconception that paddling a kayak is hard. You only need great equipment with good design. Kayaks are very stable, thanks to their low center of gravity. This means you only need a little experience and you'll be set.

Related: The Best Fishing Kayaks of 2020

However, before taking your mind to the waters, you need to understand that shopping for the best kayaks is fun but a complex process. There are a lot of things to consider, including how often you'll be paddling, the distance, the waters, etc. Let's break that down in this guide of the best kayaks of 2020.

The Vibe Kayaks Fishing Kayak focuses on speed and stability for a perfect balance. With this kayak, whether sitting or standing, it delivers the perfect slip-resistant deck platform for any professional angler.

The kayak is wide and has a lot of storage space. It has two flush-mount rod holders and four integrated gear tracks for personalized rigging. It also has easy-to-reach front and rear hatches, large rear tank, and tackle tray holders. If you are planning to be out on the water for long, then you will love the comfort of this kayak. It is designed for long fishing trips.

The Vibe Kayaks Fishing Kayak comes with an adjustable seat. It can be adjusted to dual positions so your back will get maximum support during those long fishing trips.

Save your energy during long paddles, strong currents, and windy days with this kayak.

Key Features
  • Toe-controlled rudder included
  • Magnetic tackle tray and watertight dual-hinged console
  • Fishing rod holders
  • Fish hinder and accessories mount
  • Premium seat
  • 550 pounds of load capacity
Specifications
  • Material: Crafted ultra-stable rotomolded single piece polyethylene
  • Capacity: 375 pounds
  • Seating: Sit-on-top
  • Length: 10 feet
  • What's Included: 2 flush-mount rod holders, four integrated gear tracks, built-in cup holder
  • Brand: Vibe Kayaks
Pros
  • The sit-on-top design gives you a better view of the water
  • Stable and sturdy
  • Plenty of storage space
  • Has a premium comfortable adjustable seat
  • Has a slip-resistant deck
Cons
  • The center console may restrict movement
Editors choice

2. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

9.98 / 10
Read Reviews

When you're going to be in and out of the water, you need a kayak that you can easily carry around. An inflatable kayak is your best choice for that matter. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak comes with everything you need to get moving in the water. It comes complete with a pump, two paddles, and a removable skeg.

You will love the banana shape appearance of this kayak as well as the bright colors that add to its aesthetic appeal as well as your safety because you will be visible from a distance. The kayak also features removable and inflatable seats that make your kayaking experience fun.

If you need a kayak that will easily maneuver and glide perfectly in the water, there is no better kayak than this. If you need to carry it to your car or carry it between lakes, the lightweight design will give you an easy time. The skeg and fin make it glide straight in the water with ease.

Key Features
  • Comes with removable and inflatable seats
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Removable skeg
  • Made with puncture-resistant vinyl
  • Comes with two oars, repair kit, and hand-pump
Specifications
  • Material: Vinyl
  • Capacity: 400 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 10' 3"
  • What's Included: Hand-pump, repair kit, and two oars
  • Brand: Intex
Pros
  • Easily portable
  • Comes with comfortable and inflatable back support
  • Stable and easy to maneuver
  • Convenient for traveling
  • Durable material
Cons
  • The footrest is short hence can be uncomfortable for long-distance

Are you looking for a durable inflatable kayak? Well, this is a great pick. The Ztotop 2-Person Inflatable Kayak is made with heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl. The material is durable enough and protects it from punctures. The kayak has three air chambers that are separate for extra safety design.

It also has a foot pump for quick inflation and a Boston valve to prevent leaking. The kayak assures you comfort while paddling with the adjustable seat that has a backrest. For safe storage of your items, the kayak comes with a net bag. It also has a simple repair kit that helps you repair little holes or a puncture.

The kayak is perfect for two people and loads of fun. It won't have a problem when you drag it on rocks and grass! If you are looking for inflatable kayaks, go for the Ztotop 2-Person Inflatable Kayak.

Key Features
  • Heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl
  • Three air chambers
  • Boston valve
  • Adjustable seat
  • Net bags for item storage
  • Simple repair kit
Specifications
  • Material: Heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl
  • Capacity: 400 pounds
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 3.5 m
  • What's Included: Two paddles, one foot pump, one repair kit, and instruction
  • Brand: Ztotop
Pros
  • Has a foot pump for quick inflation
  • Enough storage space
  • Has comfortable adjustable seats
  • Durable and lightweight
Cons
  • Made for smaller bodies of water

You will love this Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak for many reasons, starting with the fact that it's extremely lightweight. It features an incredible design and easy setup that will not take more than 5 minutes. The package comes with everything you need to get on the water and enjoy your time, including a hand pump, backpack, and a paddle.

This is one of the most durable kayaks in the market designed to give value for your money. It is made with a 21-gauge PVC construction and a tarpaulin bottom that protects it from punctures. The kayak also features multiple air chambers that will keep you afloat in case you get punctures. You can, therefore, take your kayak to the sea with peace of mind knowing that you can still get offshore even with a puncture.

Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak comes with double lock valves enabling easy inflation and deflation as well as Airtight System to prevent air leakage. You can carry all your items and place them safely in the storage area. Turn the backpack into a seat and have a comfortable time.

Key Features
  • 21-gauge PVC construction
  • Tarpaulin bottom
  • Airtight system
  • Double lock valves
  • Easy to carry a backpack that also serves as a seat
  • Comfortable backrests and footrests
Specifications
  • Material: 21 gauge PVC with a tarpaulin bottom
  • Capacity: 400 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-on-top
  • Length: 8' 7"
  • What's Included: Backpack, paddle, and a hand pump
  • Brand: Sevylor
Pros
  • Easy and quick to setup
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Compact design
  • Easy to use and sturdy
  • Secure storage area
Cons
  • Doesn't move so fast

If you want your kids to learn kayaking at an early age, then the best way to do this is to buy them their own kayak. Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is specially designed for kids. It comes in a simple and fun design with attractive colors that will easily appeal to kids. The 18lb weight makes this kayak light enough for kids to carry on their own as well as molded finger handles for easy transport.

This kayak features an ergonomic cockpit design, which is an excellent feature behind its stability. The safety of your kids is taken care of with the twin fin assists. It also comes with comfortable footrests and sloped end. This adds to the fun of this kayak as kids can easily swim back in if they happen to fall off or jump.

The kayak is of good quality with the high-density Polyethylene that ensures it lasts long and is strong enough. The material also features UV-Protection and is impact resistant. It doesn't fade or peel off hence great value for your money.

Key Features
  • Up to 6 bright colors
  • Ergonomic cockpit
  • Swim-on sloped end
  • Molded paddle cradle
  • Weighs 18 lbs
Specifications
  • Material: High-density Polyethylene
  • Capacity: 130 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-on-top
  • Length: 6'
  • What's Included: Caddle, cockpit, and finger handles
  • Brand: Lifetime
Pros
  • Appeals to kids with a simple and fun design
  • Lightweight
  • Compact design
  • Extremely stable
Cons
  • Too small for some

Recreation is a growing sector in the 21st century, and critical to it is the emergence of the Driftsun Voyager Tandem Inflatable Kayak. It is a reliable equipment with a record inflation time of fewer than five minutes and a maximum length of ten feet.

This kayak is compact and maneuverable in the sense that when deflated, it is small and light enough to carry. Twenty-seven pounds is something that fits in a bag allowing you to move around with it and inflate when need be. Apart from the bag, the equipment comes with two padded seats for comfort as well as a double-action hand pump.

The Driftsun Voyager Tandem Inflatable Kayak is known for its durable design. The bottom side is fitted with heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin that protects it from punctures. The Boston high-quality valves hasten the inflation and deflation processes. Superior performance is the other thing that comes with this kayak. The pointed nose entry allows it to cut through waters easily.

Key Features
  • Two adjustable seats
  • Tandem riders
  • Weighs 27 pounds
  • Compact with superior performance
Specifications
  • Material: 840D Nylon Oxford Fabric Tube Covers
  • Capacity: 450 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 10’ x 35’’ x 16’’ when inflated and 26’’ x 16’’ x 8’’ when deflated
  • What's Included: 2 aluminum paddles, 2 padded seats, double action pump, and a travel bag
  • Brand: Driftsun
Pros
  • Boston valves for quick inflation
  • Tough PVC tarpaulin bottom to prevent punctures
  • Fitted with handles that make it easy to carry
  • High quality and durable
Cons
  • Suitable for recreation purposes only

Since the emergence of the Elkton Outdoors Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak, fishing activities have never been the same. The equipment originally weighs approximately 27 pounds and can carry up to 440 pounds when inflated.

Elkton Outdoors is among the fastest-inflating kayaks ever known. Once inflated, its maximum length is 10 feet, which creates enough room for two people and ample storage space. It is also made from durable, high-quality material.

In standard cases, inflated materials are prone to pricks that render them infective. The situation with Elkton Outdoors is different in that it is constructed with 18-gauge rip resistant 1000D PVC. With this, you don't have to worry about any leaks while fishing. The same equipment is an excellent alternative to ordinary kayaks in that it is compact and lightweight.

Elkton Outdoors doesn’t need to be repaired every now and then, and when it is to be done, it is easy and adjustable. It also comes as a full package that includes adjustable seats, rod holders, and a double-action pump. All these accessories are crucial for your well-being in the lake.

Key Features
  • Premium seats
  • Inflates quickly
  • Rugged and durable
  • A great alternative to your ordinary kayaks
Specifications
  • Material: 18-gauge PVC and a thick tarpaulin
  • Capacity: 450 pounds
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 118’’ x 35’’ x 16’’
  • What's Included: Two adjustable seats, rod holders, double-sided oars, double-action pump, and a carry bag
  • Brand: Elkton Outdoors
Pros
  • Performs well on the water
  • Easy to connect and adjust
  • Effective for fishing activities
  • Enough room for comfort and storage
Cons
  • Under-inflation will make it uncomfortable

Are you planning on fishing, snorkeling, or having a picnic on water? The SUNDOLPHIN Sit-in Kayak has everything you need! The kayak has a large cockpit with an adjustable padded seat for firm back support and adjustable foot braces. With this Kayak, you get all the support and comfort you need to spend hours on end gliding across the water.

The kayak has a well-designed bottle holder that allows you to have a drink near you, so you don’t have to stop kayaking for a long period to quench your thirst. A convenient storage hatch and shock cord deck rigging allow you to carry all the gears you need for your activities.

What makes this kayak special is the ability to maneuver easily, both in and out of water. At just 31 lbs, you can conveniently carry the kayak alone! The SUNDOLPHIN Sit-in Kayak is designed with a rugged UV-stabilized Fortiflex High-Density Polyethylene, making it durable.

If you are seeking great performance and a stable kayak, the SUNDOLPHIN Sit-in Kayak is a perfect choice.

Key Features
  • Has thigh pads
  • Has a portable accessory carrier
  • Has adjustable foot braces
  • Pad holder
  • Features a deluxe adjustable seat
  • Contains carrying handles
Specifications
  • Material: High-density polyethylene
  • Capacity: 250 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 10 ft
  • What's Included: Paddle, pad holder, carrying handles
  • Brand: SUNDOLPHIN
Pros
  • The adjustable padded seat offers back support and thigh support
  • Durable kayak
  • Easily maneuverable in and out of water
  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Carrying handles for easy portage
Cons
  • Too light to stand heavy waves

Do you want to kayak as buddies? The Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 has the capacity for three people. Meaning you're going to have a great companion with the best inflatable kayak in the market. The kayak comes with incredible features aside from the fact that it can carry a capacity of up to 650lbs. It includes removable seats as well as two paddles that get you ready for your kayaking adventure.

Your speed, traction, and safety are guaranteed thanks to the two kegs on the bottom. The kegs protect your vessel from rocks, shells, and pebbles so that you can have an easy and fun ride. The spray kit also ensures you and your gear stay dry and in perfect condition as it minimizes water spraying.

The kayak is highly portable with a weight of only 26lb. The inflation process is also easy, and in just 15 minutes, you'll be ready to go. Once you're done with your adventure, you will also have an easy time deflating it and fold it into a handy carry bag and carry away with the featured shoulder strap.

The kayak is made from a durable, rugged PolyKryalar, which protects it from puncture. The material is also sun and salt water resistant; hence you don't have to worry about your safety while in the water.

Key Features
  • Removable seats
  • Two kegs
  • Features a foot pump, two paddles, and carry bag
  • Open and close drain valve
  • Spray skirts
  • Repair kits
Specifications
  • Material: PolyKrylar
  • Capacity: 650 lbs
  • Seating: Sit-in
  • Length: 12' 6"
  • What's Included: Two paddles, carry bag, and foot pump
  • Brand: Sea Eagle
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Plenty of room
  • Comfortable back support and legroom
  • Carries up to three people
  • Removable and comfortable seats
Cons
  • Not stable enough
  • The seats are too small

While people see ocean currents as a problem, grab such opportunities, and have fun in the sea. This will be impossible without the Ocean Kayak Recreational Kayak. The Kayak is suitable for an affordable yet fun-filled family adventure.

The Ocean Kayak Recreational Kayak has an upper hand over the rest in that you have a chance to surf while enjoying the sun. This will give you an excellent opportunity to refresh your mind while taking care of your physical wellbeing through the paddling activity.

The Kayak weighs around 68 pounds meaning it is light enough for you to pull from one location to the next. Apart from the weight, it is approximately 12 feet long, with the seats a distance apart. With this, there is enough room for the comfort of your feet.

These same kayaks have a capacity of up to 425 pounds. This provides enough room for a family of two and may involve their kid and dog without being overwhelmed. It is also easy to get on and off when need be. Whether fishing or having fun, Ocean Kayaks' kayaks will have you sorted in matters stability and efficiency.

Key Features
  • Weighs 68 pounds
  • Skid plate
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Multipurpose
  • Supports solo, tandem, and tandem paddling
Specifications
  • Material: Polythene
  • Capacity: 425 pounds
  • Seating: Sit-on-top
  • Length: 12 feet long and 34 inches wide
  • What's Included: Two comfort plus seats
  • Brand: Ocean Kayak
Pros
  • Easy to get on and off
  • Ample space
  • Stable and comfortable
  • Suitable for a family set up
Cons
  • Seats are a little flimsy

Before thinking about the type of kayak you want, you should first think about your needs. Are you using your kayak for sports or just a simple family adventure? Think about the distance you're going to cover, the number of people that will be on board, and how often you're going to take your kayak out in the waters.

Recreational kayaks are designed for use in the rivers. They are shorter and wider, making them easier to turn; hence, good for sports but not for travel. If you're traveling for a long distance and carrying a large group of people, touring kayaks will be your best choice. They are mostly used for seas but not good for sports since they don't turn easily.

There are also white river kayaks that can handle rapid waters and waves as well as downriver kayaks for quick traveling and racing. So, can your kayak handle fast-moving waters, can it turn easily, or will it be able to accommodate a large group? These questions will help you choose a kayak that suits your unique needs.

Don't forget to think about the dimensions of your kayak, as this also determines how well it will serve you. If you choose a narrow and long kayak, you will be choosing one with a faster and straighter movement. A short and wide one is more stable and easy to turn, but not fast enough.

Related: The Best Sports Watches of 2020

The shape of the bottom of your kayak also matters a lot when choosing an ideal kayak. This is called the hull. The shape and design of the hull affect its stability and performance. If you want a stable kayak, go for hulls with hard chines, flat bottoms, and greater flare. On the other hand, kayaks with soft chines, less flare, and round bottoms are easier to roll and nimble.

Kayaks come in two categories, namely, sit on top and sit in. The sit-ins are more traditional and come with a cockpit. They are perfect for long-distance kayaking and ideal for a family vacation. Sit-on-top kayaks are suitable for recreational activities since they are more user-friendly. They are suitable for beginner kayakers. There are also inflatable kayaks that are lightweight, durable, and portable. They are ideal for those buying their first kayak or beginner kayakers.

Now that you know what to look for in a kayak and the types available in the market, you must be ready to shop. Make your kayak shopping easier by looking at this review of the best kayaks of 2020 and make an informed choice.

Resources— Mens Journal, Dick Sporting Goods

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