The Best Kayaks for Every Paddler in 2024
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Whether you’re looking for a single-person fishing kayak or a tandem inflatable kayak, the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming.
The last thing you want to do is end up with a kayak that wasn’t made for your intended use. Plus, if you’re new to kayaking, it can be difficult to know what to look for in a kayak once you find the type that you like.
Luckily, you’ve come to the right place.
Kayaking is an incredibly rewarding watersport, providing a full-body workout while helping us appreciate our natural surroundings. We’re major fans of kayaking, which is why we’ve put in the research to create this guide outlining some of the best kayaks, how to use them and what makes each so beneficial.
Come paddle out with us as we explore the ins and outs of the six best kayaks on the market in 2024!
Our Picks for the Best Kayaks of 2024:
- Best Overall Kayak: Old Town Next
- Best Inflatable Kayak: TAHE Beach LP2 Tandem Inflatable Kayak
- Best Fishing Kayak: Old Town Loon 126 Angler Kayak 2022
- Best Tandem Kayak: Malibu Two Tandem Kayak 2022
- Best Budget Kayak: Azul Kayaks Sun 9 Sit-on-Top Kayak
- Best Recreational Kayak: Old Town Heron 9 Kayak 2022
Best Overall: Old Town Next
Old Town
The Old Town Next offers all of the best elements of a kayak and a canoe. If you’re looking to enjoy a casual paddle in your local lake, look no further. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for small or mid-sized paddlers.
There’s plenty of internal space in the hull for you and all of your gear, whether you’re taking out your fishing lures or a cooler with your favorite six-pack.
If you’re new to the world of kayaking, you’ll love how easy this thing is to paddle and steer. The seat offers more than enough comfort, allowing you to spend hours on the water without ever feeling lower back pain.
With a canoe-style design, you can work with a double or single-bladed paddle. To make paddling ever easier, Old Town constructed the Next with a low profile design and a pronounced tumblehome.
Under the hood of the Old Town Next is the three-layer hull, which provides smooth, straight tracking on the water. One of the biggest complaints we hear from new kayakers is the inability to point the kayak in the direction they want to go.
The beauty of this kayak is that you almost feel as if just looking in your intended direction gets you there.
If you want to get a different vantage point, you can remove the Element Seating System within the cockpit. Plus, when properly seated, you can take advantage of the Support Track Foot Brace System, which helps you focus on your direction with a bit more confidence.
While it’s certainly not the most transport-friendly kayak due to its size and weight, it’s a wonderful option for beginners in terms of comfort and maneuverability. If you’re looking for the best sit-on-top kayak on the market, however, look no further!
Key Features:
- Weight - 59 pounds
- Length - 13 feet
- Design - Sit-on-top canoe hybrid
- Weight capacity - 450 pounds
- Number of riders - One
- Material - Three-layer polyethylene
Pros:
- Comfortable and removable seating system
- Very roomy cockpit
- Smooth tracking system
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
- Not the easiest kayak to transport
Best Inflatable Kayak: TAHE Beach LP2 Tandem Inflatable Kayak
TAHE
The TAHE Beach LP2 is one of the most popular and versatile inflatable kayaks on the market today. It’s a great choice for those who don’t have a large vehicle or roof racks for transporting a hard-shell kayak. You can bring this kayak straight down to the water’s edge before pumping it up, making the journey far more optimal.
The TAHE Beach LP2 comes with an easy-to-use pump to inflate the kayak in just minutes.
People often worry about inflatables because of their comparative durability. With layers of high-quality polyurethane-coated nylon, you don’t have to worry about blowing a hole far out from shore. If, by some miracle, a hole does appear, TAHE includes an intuitive repair kit to patch up any damage in a matter of minutes.
The seating arrangement is completely adjustable, allowing you to paddle solo or with a friend. Plus, with the backpack-like storage bag, you can keep all of your essentials dry while out on the water.
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For additional tracking and control, the TAHE Beach LP2 comes with three removable fins, giving you complete control over your intentional direction.
Overall, this inflatable kayak is great for those who want to explore the unknown, hiking to lakes or rivers that most kayakers won’t be able to access.
Key Features:
- Weight - 28 pounds
- Length - 11 feet
- Design - Sit-on-top inflatable
- Weight capacity - 330 pounds
- Number of riders - Two
- Material - Polyurethane-coated nylon
Pros:
- Easy to store and transport
- Comes with all the accessories you need to paddle
- Excellent tracking capabilities
Cons:
- Not as durable as a hard-shell kayak
- Will require more setup and break-down time than a traditional kayak
Best Fishing Kayak: Old Town Loon 126 Angler Kayak 2022
Old Town
The Loon 126 Angler Kayak from Old Town is the premier kayak for open-water fishing. Whether you’re traversing narrow fishing holes or traversing wide-open lakes, you’ll enjoy the tracking and handling capabilities this thing offers.
Reeling in a big catch?
No worries! The Loon 126 has some of the highest-rated stability of any kayak on this list. Plus, if you suddenly need to move from one location to the next, the unique hull design prioritizes quick maneuverability. In our book, the responsiveness of the Old Town Loon 126 makes it a clear-cut winner for fishing.
Of course, the fun doesn’t stop there. As you’d expect from any pro fishing kayak, you get a few rod holders to optimize your rod-reel combo setup before you even drift away from shore. Once you’ve found a good spot out on the water, you can drop the built-in anchor to stay in one place while duking it out with the local fish.
For any extra gear you may have, the bow-and-stern deck bungees provide extra security to keep your belongings dry. You can even adjust the seat for a bit of additional room if need be.
Key Features:
- Weight - 59 pounds
- Length - 12 feet, 6 inches
- Design - Sit-on-top angler kayak
- Weight capacity - 450 pounds
- Number of riders - One
- Material - Three-layer polyethylene
Pros:
- Tons of onboard dry storage for dry bags and fishing gear
- Adjustable seating system
- Built-in USB port
Cons:
- A bit heavy for the size
- Pricey
Best Tandem Kayak: Malibu Two Tandem Kayak 2022
Malibu
If you’re just getting into paddling and you want to get out on the open water with your friend or partner, the Malibu Two Tandem Kayak is one of the best two-person kayaks on the market today. It’s probably the reason why you see this kayak at just about any major rental shop.
It’s built with stability in mind, utilizing a wide hull that makes it easy for beginners to get out over the whitewater or get enter and exit. If you want to add your young child or furry friend to the party, the small middle seat is a nice addition.
The two main seats are completely adjustable, perfect for any paddler of any height. As the day goes on, you can change positions in a few seconds without any hassle.
On the bottom of the kayak, you’ll find a handy skid plate that reduces wear and tear as you drag it along the sand to get it down to the water’s edge.
Note that while there is tons of room onboard for paddlers, you won’t find much additional storage room, so plan on packing light.
Key Features:
- Weight - 58 pounds
- Length - 12 inches
- Design - Sit-on-top tandem kayak
- Weight capacity - 425 pounds
- Number of riders - Three
- Material - Single-layer polyethylene
Pros:
- Wide design makes entering and exiting a breeze
- Adjustable seating allows you to move around with ease
- Bottom skid plate for minimizing hull wear and tear
Cons:
- Not a ton of onboard storage space
- Not the most maneuverable kayak
Best Budget Kayak: Azul Kayaks Sun 9 Sit-on-Top Kayak
Azul Kayaks
The Azul compact sit-on-top kayak is a great choice for smaller paddlers. If you want to get your little ones out on the water for the first time, it’s a solid choice. Plus, at such a low price, it’s not a huge investment if you’re looking to add another kayak to your family’s arsenal.
Even with its relatively small size, you’ll find tons of included storage areas for your dry bags and gear. If you plan on taking this little yak out for some fishing, you can use the swivel-mounted fishing rod holder in the center of the cockpit.
One unique thing we love about the Azul Kayaks Sun 9 is the stackable design. If you have multiple of these kayaks, you can easily stack them up for more convenient storage. For transporting down to the water’s edge, the Sun 9 comes with a built-in rear wheel for easy transport.
Key Features:
- Weight - 44 pounds
- Length - 8 feet, 9 inches
- Design - Sit-on-top kayak
- Weight capacity - 275 pounds
- Number of riders - One
- Material - Polyethylene plastic
Pros:
- Easy transport with built-in rear wheel
- Affordable
- Stackable design for convenient storage
Cons:
- Not the best for larger paddlers
- Can’t get up to high speed with a short length
Best Recreational Kayak: Old Town Heron 9 Kayak 2022
Old Town
If you’re looking to go paddling every now and then, there’s no reason to spend your life savings on a kayak. This is where models like the Old Town Heron 9 come in handy. It’s one of the most affordable and versatile recreational kayaks on the market.
With a lightweight and compact sit-inside design, you can enjoy a dry and comfortable paddling experience wherever the wind takes you. You can include a spray skirt if you’re paddling during the colder season, which is great for keeping you halfway dry and warm.
Behind the cockpit, you’ll find two flush-mounted rod holders for accessible fishing. Of course, you look at the overall design of the Old Town Heron 9 and it’s clear to see that accessibility and comfort were the two main priorities when constructing it.
The seating system comes with additional padding for comfort during long days on the water, while the adjustable foot brace system helps you stay in the right body position with ease.
Key Features:
- Weight - 39 pounds
- Length - 9 feet, 6 inches
- Design - Sit-in kayak
- Weight capacity - 300 pounds
- Number of riders - One
- Material - Polyethylene
Pros:
- Comfortable seat padding
- Foam bulkheads for capsizing safety
- Two accessible rod holders
Cons:
- Not that much enclosed storage space
- No skeg or rudder for tracking control
Reasons to Buy a Kayak
There are so many reasons to buy a kayak and the reasons people choose to get into kayaking differ from person to person.
For starters, kayaks are great for physical fitness. You can get a total-body workout with a kayak, though it’s especially great for your arms, back and core. In fact, at-home water rowing, which mimics kayaking, has become an extremely popular cardio workout.
Others buy kayaks to get in touch with nature. There’s nothing like the tranquility and solitude you can find by paddling out on the open waters of your favorite lake or coastline. Plus, you can get to some pretty incredible places that boats cannot, making them much more versatile for the avid explorer or multi-day backcountry adventurer.
You won’t feel guilty about exploring your favorite natural places either, as kayaks are one of the most eco-friendly forms of transport. You can see incredible places without expanding your carbon footprint.
Lastly, kayaks can enhance your quality family time. Some of my personal favorite memories were made kayaking out near the La Jolla cove in San Diego, CA. When you’re out on the open water, you can work together to paddle to new destinations and enjoy time together without the distractions of modern life.
Different Types of Kayaks
As you can see, there are many types of kayaks out there, which are classified in different ways. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of kayaks, so you can narrow down your decision.
Sit-on-top vs. sit-in kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks are great recreational kayaks for slow-moving rivers, calm lakes or open oceans. You’ll often find people cruising around in these kayaks in warmer coastal waters. They often have more built-in storage than their sit-in cousins, allowing you to plan for overnight trips.
There are many benefits to sit-on-top kayaks, including:
- Sit-on-tops make entering and exiting easy, even if you’re in deeper waters, making them great for casual riders
- They utilize self-draining designs with included scupper holes, meaning you never have to pump out water
- Many included additional accessories, such as rod holders for fishing
Note that we wouldn’t recommend these for kayaking on cold rivers or frigid coastal waters, as you’ll always get wet with a sit-on-top kayak.
Sit-in kayaks, on the other hand, come in a wide range of designs, though some of the most popular include recreational and touring kayaks.
These kayaks are made to move fast and track straight. They often have covered compartments for cargo, perfect for when you need to take dry gear with you. If you’re destination paddling, they’re an excellent option.
Some of the main benefits of sit-in kayaks include:
- They are comfortable in colder weather and water
- They provide better paddling efficiency
- They’re much easier to control in rough waters
Do note that sit-in kayaks can be harder to enter and exit, especially in deeper waters. You’ll also need to know how to use a bilge pump to remove water if you get swamped.
Now that you know the two main kayak types let’s dig in a little deeper to explore the various subcategories of kayaks that fall under these two umbrellas.
Recreational kayaks
Recreational kayaks come in sit-in and sit-on-top designs. They are by far the most affordable types of kayaks and are often easy to get in and out of, which is why they’re great for beginners.
Depending on the type of recreational kayak you have, you can enjoy river paddling, lake paddling or open-ocean paddling. Note that they’re often best for flatwater enjoyment. You won’t find a recreational kayak that is rated for rapids and taking one down rapids can be incredibly dangerous.
We also wouldn’t recommend a recreational kayak for longer trips, as there typically isn’t a lot of onboard storage for gear. The stash spots on these kayaks are often limited.
Inflatable kayaks
Inflatable kayaks are great for those who have limited storage or transport space. Even with their inflatable designs, they are surprisingly versatile and sturdy. Of course, they are also purely recreational kayaks. You shouldn’t expect to win any races with these things and it’s often best to stay closer to land.
However, depending on the rating and durability factor, you can certainly find an inflatable that works in flowing rivers. The cool thing about taking an inflatable down a river is that it bounces off obstacles.
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Once you’re all done with your inflatable yak, allow it to dry for a few minutes before deflating it, folding it up and tossing it in your trunk for an easy ride home.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive inflatable kayak to get you started, we recommend checking out the ones over at Intex.
Whitewater kayaks
Whitewater kayaks are specific kayaks designed for river running. With compact designs, they excel in turbulent waters. They come in single-person designs with enclosed cockpits for added stability. You can easily cruise through rapids with these kayaks, thanks to their added control and unique hull designs, which utilize rounded bottoms and increased rockers.
Of course, with the added stability, you can still take these things out on the open ocean or lake for a casual ride.
Fishing kayaks
Fishing kayaks come in all shapes and sizes, though you’ll often find them with sit-on-top designs. This is because sit-on-tops have better vantage points, allowing you to see the water around you and determine where you need to go. If you get a fishing kayak with a swivel seat, you have far more maneuverability up top as well.
Many fishing kayaks even have added stability, allowing you to stand up when you have a big catch on the line.
As you’d imagine, most fishing kayaks come with built-in accessories for fishing. You’ll find storage space for your gear, rod holders for multiple rod and reel combos, mounts for fishfinders and much more.
Some fishing kayaks even have foot pedals for hands-free cruising, though those kayaks are in a league all their own, which we’ll get to in a minute.
Touring kayaks
Touring kayaks are easy to differentiate, as they have long, narrow bodies that make them more efficient over longer distances. They have superior tracking compared to other kayaks with built-in rudders or skegs to help you deal with strong currents and wind.
Because they’re made for longer journeys, you’ll often find ample cargo space. Note that these kinds of kayaks require a bit more experience with their long, sit-in designs, so we wouldn’t recommend getting one of these for your first kayaking experience.
If you want to work your way up to a legitimate touring kayak, we recommend starting off with a day-touring kayak. They are shorter than touring kayaks, though they handle in a very similar way. However, because of the shorter length, they are slightly easier to manage.
Note that they come with more limited space than a standard touring yak, which is something to consider if you plan on having some long days on the water. They’re called day-touring kayaks for a reason!
If you’re looking for the best ocean kayak for your upcoming day trip, however, touring styles are great to consider.
Folding kayaks
Folding kayaks are similar to their inflatable cousins in terms of portability. However, rather than inflating and deflating, they fold into place using unique designs and materials.
The benefit of folding kayaks is that they offer comparable handling to most touring kayaks. You’ll often find ample storage space too. If you plan on hiking to a remote lake to paddle out, we can’t think of a better option.
The only downside to these kayaks is that they aren’t as rugged as their hard-shell counterparts.
Tandem kayaks
While tandem kayaks could certainly be grouped in with some of the categories above, we feel that their unique two-person design puts them in a category all their own.
The cool thing about tandem kayaks is that they allow for quality time with your loved ones. You can easily paddle out with your friend, partner, child or furry friend.
Pedal-powered kayaks
Pedal-powered kayaks are relatively new to the market, though we’re starting to see them more and more, especially in the fishing community. These unique kayaks use pedal propulsion systems for a hands-free kayaking experience.
The pedals are very similar to the pedals you’d find on a bike, operating fins underneath the hull to propel you through the water. They also come with rudders on the back that you can operate with your hand to steer yourself in the right direction.
These kayaks tend to be much wider than other kayaks, offering more stability for fishing in calm conditions. Plus, with your powerful leg muscles doing all of the work, you’ll be able to go for much longer stretches.
Hobie is one of the most popular pedal kayak manufacturers on the market today.
What to Look for in a Kayak
Beyond determining the type of kayak you want, there are a few other things you might want to consider.
Construction
Construction is a MAJOR factor to consider when buying a kayak, though there’s always a trade-off.
A lightweight kayak will be much easier to transport and get up to speed once you’re out on the water. You’ll often be able to carry more gear on a lightweight kayak too, as the capacity won’t be burdened by the weight of the kayak itself.
However, lightweight materials often cost more too. Plus, depending on the type of lightweight material you’re using, it might not be the most durable option.
Polyethylene plastic is one of the most popular kayak materials. This rotomolded material is abrasion-resistant and inexpensive, though it’s also one of the heaviest options. If you keep this material out in the sun for too long, it can degrade, which is why it’s important to store in a covered location.
A step up from polyethylene is ABS plastic. While it offers the same amount of durability as polyethylene, it is a bit lighter and provides UV resistance.
If you want a super lightweight kayak, consider going with a composite material, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber. These kayaks offer superior performance and total UV resistance, though big obstacles like rocks can present issues.
On the other hand, if you’re getting an inflatable kayak, you’ll probably find yourself looking at marine-grade PVC. This material is durable enough to enjoy on most any body of water, though many manufacturers will build them with multiple air chambers for continued flotation in the case of a break.
Weight capacity
The weight capacity of your kayak is how much it can hold. If you plan to haul gear, this is a very important consideration to make. A kayak that’s overloaded could sit too low, compromising your speed and efficiency.
In the worst-case scenario, a low-sitting kayak can take in water.
Length
The longer the kayak, the more efficiently it’ll cruise. Longer kayaks also offer more storage space for overnight trips.
On the other hand, longer kayaks don’t maneuver as well as shorter kayaks, which is why they aren’t great for rivers or streams.
Kayak Accessories
Best Kayak Paddle - Wilderness System Pungo Glass
The Wilderness System Pungo Glass paddle is a lightweight, adjustable kayak paddle made of carbon fiber for smooth and efficient paddling performance. With durable blades and total adjustability, it’s one of the most versatile high-performance paddles on the market.
Best Kayak Fish Finder - Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5x SplitShot Fish Finder
This high-quality fish finder package from Lowrance comes with a five inch waterproof screen, a durable build and an intuitive mounting solution, perfect for keeping you on course during your fishing excursions.
Best Trolling Motor for Kayak - Motorguide xi3
The Motorguide xi3 has become the pro standard for trolling motors, thanks to its power and extended life. With quiet operation, saltwater capabilities and a brushless motor for supreme performance, it’s an excellent addition to any angler’s rig.
Best Kayak Dry Bags - Sealine Baja Dry Bag
Baja Dry Bags are super durable and versatile dry bags for on-land and in-the-water protection. With heavy-duty materials, dry-seal roll-top closures and attached D-rings, these bags offer an inexpensive way to protect your most important gear.
Best Cooler for Kayak - YETI Hopper Flip 12
If you aren’t against dropping a bit of extra dough to get the best cooler for your kayak, then you’ll enjoy the durability and extended insulation that the YETI Hopper Flip 12 provides. This soft-sided cooler is lightweight and easy to squeeze into smaller spaces, though it provides all-day insulation with closed-cell rubber foam, perfect for keeping your six-pack and fresh catch cold.
Best Kayak Life Jacket - Stohlquist Waterware Edge
The Stohlquist Waterware Edge is a roomy life jacket with a comfortable fit and tons of storage space for all of your important essentials, such as your phone, wallet, keys, sunscreen, etc. With graded sizing, the fit is totally customizable and the low-cut design helps you to fit your arms while maintaining security.
Best Kayak Rack - Thule Compass
The Thule Compass is a rock-solid kayak rack with thick rubber saddles and the ability to hold kayaks in either a saddle or J-style configuration. When not in use, it folds up and stays out of the way.
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FAQs
What type of kayak is most stable?
Pedal-powered kayaks are often the most stable types of kayaks, as they are wider in design and bulkier than other types of kayaks.
Are longer kayaks faster than shorter ones?
Longer kayaks are often able to achieve higher speeds than shorter kayaks, as their typical narrow designs reduce drag while paddling.
Do kayaks flip easily?
Kayaks do not flip easily, as most are designed for maximum stability. The most common reason kayaks flip is because of big waves or rapids.
Are open or closed kayaks better?
Open and closed kayaks come with their own pros and cons. Open sit-on-top kayaks provide better mobility and stability, while closed sit-in kayaks provide better speed, tracking and warmth in colder waters.
Which is better: sit-on or sit-in kayak?
Sit-in kayaks are better for cold or rough waters and are optimal for touring long distances, riding rapids and paddling in the surf. Sit-on-top kayaks are better for beginners, fishing and leisurely paddling on calm waters.
Does kayaking burn belly fat?
Absolutely! Kayaking is great for burning belly fat and helping you develop a strong core.
Is it easier to kayak single or double?
Most beginners prefer tandem kayaking, as two paddlers can help each other get a feel for the paddling basics. Plus, tandem kayaks usually move slower, allowing one paddler to take a break when they need to.
Are longer kayaks more stable?
Yes. Longer kayaks typically offer more stability, capacity and better tracking capabilities.
Does the length of a kayak matter?
Longer kayaks are more efficient when it comes to cruising and they offer more storage space for overnight trips. However, they are also harder to turn and maneuver compared to their shorter counterparts.
How do I know what size kayak to buy?
There is no “right” kayak size for any kayaker, as it depends on several factors, including where you plan on kayaking, storage, transportation, capacity needs, etc.
What is the easiest kayak to get in and out of?
A sit-on-top kayak is much easier to get in and out of than a sit-in kayak, making it a better choice for beginners.
Is kayaking good exercise?
Kayaking is a wonderful low-impact exercise for increasing muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness.
Related Post: The 5 Best Fitness Trackers, Whatever Your Fitness Level or Budget
Final Thoughts
We hope looking at these fine watercraft vessels has helped narrow down your kayak-buying decision. As you can see, there are so many great kayaks on the market and tons of factors to consider.
From touring kayaks to pedal kayaks to recreational sit-on-top kayaks, the kayak you choose will depend on your intentions.
Happy paddling!
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
