Best Cheap Kayaks Under $500 For 2025

You don’t have to break the bank to get into kayaking. There are plenty of cheap kayaks on the market that will grant you painless entry into the paddling world. Recreational kayaks best suit the needs of both entry-level paddlers and those working within a conservative budget. For that reason, the focus of this article will largely be on recreational kayaks that fall under the $500 mark.

Keep in mind the prices of kayaks vary, with higher performance boats having higher price tags on average, and so even their cheapest models will be priced above $500. That being said, the points below can be applied generally to all boats that fall on the cheaper end of the spectrum for a given type of kayak.

So, are you wondering what to look for in an affordable kayak? We’ve polled experts to help answer all your questions about what to look for in a good budget-friendly kayak, including their strengths, weaknesses, typical user and where to find the best selection and prices.

Top picks: Best cheap kayaks for 2025

Ozark Trail Angler 10

Great for lakes and rivers and to get to those excluded fishing spots The Ozark Trail Angler 10 Sit-In Fishing Kayak is perfect for your next adventure. It is ideal for lakes and rivers and to get to those excluded fishing spots. Weighing only 41 pounds, it is lightweight enough for most adults to carry with ease. The Ozark Trail Angler 10 Sit-In Kayak features a large, comfortable seating area with protective thigh pads and adjustable foot braces. You have plenty of room for your gear with the covered storage compartment with bungee cords in the front and back. It is constructed from rugged UV-stabilized High Density Polyethylene. The Ozark Trail Angler 1010 Sit-In Kayak tracks and paddles with ease providing you with maximum stability while in the water.

Pelican Argo 100XP Angler

The ARGO 100XP ANGLER is specifically tailored to the paddler looking to regularly use their kayak fishing or on recreational expeditions. It is also great for a family of kayaking enthusiasts, each with their own preference on how to spend their time on the water. With ergonomic carrying handles and at only 41 lb., you will be able to easily carry the ARGO 100XP Angler to wherever you decide to go!

Sevylor Quikpak K1

Buy from:

COLEMAN AMAZON

Explore alpine lakes or remote waters with the Sevylor K1 QuikPak Kayak. This compact one-person boat inflates in minutes with the included hand pump and packs down into the included backpack for travel. As you paddle along the shore, the cargo net on top of the kayak keeps your gear close at hand and a drink holder can hold a water bottle to keep you hydrated. A durable, tarpaulin bottom is built for durability, while a clever design with multiple air chambers means that the boat will not fully deflate if it gets a single puncture. A backrest and multiposition footrest makes for comfortable paddling or floating.

Perception Kayaks Sound 10.5

Buy from:

PERCEPTION AMAZON

The Sound kayak makes paddling and fishing easy with the perfect combo of comfort, features, and light weight portability. Built to explore quiet, slow-moving waters, the Sound’s tri-keel hull creates ultimate stability and smooth steering to track straight and stay on course with minimal effort. Value-packed and feature-rich, the Sound includes a dashboard with mounting points for accessories, two molded-in rod holders, and a spacious rear storage zone with bungee.

Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 ss

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN

The dynamic styling along with the many convenience features will make your paddling experience comfortable and enjoyable. The feature packed Aruba 12 ss includes a unique and removable P.A.C. (Portable Accessory Carrier) that can be used as extra storage. Other features include large comfortable seating, covered console, protective thigh pads, adjustable foot braces, storage compartment, shock cord deck rigging, retractable carrying handles, paddle holder and two flush mount fishing rod holders all at an affordable price. Made from extremely durable dent-resistant High Density Polyethylene.

Pelican Pulse 100X

Buy from:

PELICAN

The Pulse 100X is a self-bailing recreational kayak built on a twin tunnel multi-chine hull providing superior stability and maneuvrability. This sit-on-top kayak includes molded footrests, an adjustable ERGOFORM G2™ seat, a tank well with bungee cords to store your personal items and a bottle holder.

Sevylor Colorado

Buy from:

COLEMAN AMAZON

Take home your catch limit with a buddy after a day in the Sevylor Colorado 2-Person inflatable kayak. With 18-Gauge Pvc, a thick tarpaulin bottom and a tough nylon cover, this kayak is durable enough to get you to your favorite out-Of-The-Way fishing hole. Just in case, though, the multiple air chambers will help you get back to shore. The adjustable seats will keep you paddling comfortably the whole trip. But if you want to move more easily, you can always add the Sevylor trolling motor and store your paddles in the convenient holders. The Berkley quick set rod holders let you adjust your pole angle for the ultimate hands-Free fishing experience. With your hands free, it’s easier to take care of your gear, which stores nicely in the Sevylor Colorado 2-Person inflatable kayak mesh pockets or attached to d-rings.

Shopping for cheap used kayaks

There are lots of good cheap kayaks on the new and used market. The considerations of what is a good cheap kayak are the same whether you’re buying used from a paddling shop or privately. Of course, your first step is to do a bit of homework on the specific attributes of the make and model of kayak you’re considering.

Once you’ve narrowed down your selection to a few cheap used kayaks, heed the following advice to get the best boat for your buck.

Overall condition

Don’t buy a piece of junk, unless the price is too good to pass up! Examine the deck and hull of the kayak for deep gouges more than 1/8th of an inch or 3 mm deep; obvious abrasion (especially if the worn areas are a different color from the rest of the kayak); deformities (which will make the kayak paddle less efficiently); and fading (indicating prolonged exposure to the elements).

Remember, plastic kayaks are extremely durable and able to withstand plenty of abuse; some damage is fine, especially if the shape of the kayak remains intact.

Outfitting

Outfitting elements are found at the places where the paddler’s body touches the kayak—think seat, back support, thigh rests and footrests. Is everything included with the cheap used kayak? Sit in the boat before you buy it and make sure you feel comfortable. A supportive and padded seat is obvious; make sure you also check the adjustability of the kayak’s footrests and back support, both of which are essential for more efficient and ergonomic paddling.

One of the drawbacks of many cheap kayaks is substandard outfitting. Take a close look and consider investing in a more expensive kayak if you plan on more serious paddling. Outfitting is easily modified with some glue, foam and DIY time so, if you’re handy, consider any upgrades you could make.

On the water

It’s always best to try before you buy to make sure the kayak fits and performs as you expect. Arrange a meeting place with the seller that allows you to take a few moments on the water. Bring your usual paddle and dress in what you plan to wear while paddling.

Make a deal

In general (that is, before Covid-19) the typical starting point for a used kayak in moderate condition was about half its retail price. Boat shortages brought on by the pandemic have changed that, but you can use it as a starting point in haggling for an acceptable price.

Add some accessories

Ask the seller if they’re willing to throw in a paddle, sprayskirt or PFD (make sure it fits and is Coast Guard-approved for the location you’ll be paddling). Or, maybe you can save a few dollars if you have your own paddling gear.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used kayak, read our article on How To Buy A Used Kayak.

How to get a cheap kayak

Wondering what you need to know when looking for a cheap kayak? That simple question is often a starting point for so many more. Here are expert answers to the most common questions for those looking to buy a cheap kayak.

• Where to buy cheap kayaks

  Look no further than big box stores if you’re wondering where to get cheap kayaks. Outlets like Walmart, Dunham’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Canadian Tire and Academy Sports all sell cheap kayaks. With so many prospective buyers searching “Where can I get a cheap kayak” these large distributors are sure to turn up first on Google.

  At the same time, big box stores sell a lot of junky kayaks and the sales staff often lack expertise. Take a look at paddling specialty stores if you’re more serious about paddling and want expert advice on buying a cheap kayak that best meets your needs.

• Cheap kayaks online

  It’s also possible to find cheap kayaks online. Check out Amazon if you’re looking for a new kayak, especially if you have a specific model in mind. Of course, online is also the best spot to find cheap used kayaks; search buy-and-sell platforms like Craigslist, Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace.

• How much is a cheap kayak?

  For the purpose of this article, a “cheap kayak” is under $500, since it’s specific to entry-level kayaks. However, cheap is a relative term and prices go up along with performance and quality (often related to considerations like length, construction and materials)—a bargain price light touring kayak will sell for $1,000 or less and a cheap sea kayak is under $1,500.

• Are kayaks cheaper in winter?

  In general, you’ll find better deals on last year’s stock and used kayaks if you’re shopping in the winter months—however, selection will be limited. Supply shortages brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic have upended this trend; kayaking is popular right now and it’s a seller’s market regardless of the time of year.

• Best cheap kayak brands

  The easiest way to find the best cheap kayak brands is to look to the manufacturers of higher-end, light-touring and sea kayaks and scan their price lists for the cheapest models. Browse paddling specialty shops and talk to experts to find what’s right for you.

  In general, manufacturers of high-end kayaks like Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger and Delta will incorporate better performance features, design and outfitting in their cheaper models—however the price will be somewhat higher than the mass-produced kayaks available at big box stores.

  If you’re on a tight budget and must shop at a big box store, it’s best to choose a kayak that’s made in North America. Our Paddling Buyer’s Guide will set you on the right course.

• Cheap vs expensive kayaks

  There are big differences between cheap and expensive kayaks. Performance is the obvious place to begin. Cheap kayaks are often mass-produced, sometimes even shaped for the most economical transportation or display options in big box stores (rather than for paddling efficiency).

  Expensive kayaks, on the other hand, are carefully designed and tested before going to market to achieve certain performance goals. Similarly, cheap kayaks often feature bare-bones or cheaply made seats, back supports, thigh braces and footrests—key pieces of outfitting that connect the paddler and boat. The old adage, “buy the best you can afford” is a good tenet to live by when shopping for a kayak. There are some exceptions, but most often you get what you pay for.

Cheap kayak reviews

Maybe your cursory online searching has yielded a short list of kayak results? Or perhaps you’re standing in the aisle of a big box store, facing a wall of choices and turning to your phone and Googling, “What is a good cheap kayak” to buy.

Our cheap kayak reviews are your best online resource for complete specifications, design features and impartial criticism of the strengths and weaknesses of dozens of cheap recreational kayaks, including head-to-head comparisons and lists of the best kayaks depending on your paddling aspirations.

• Inflatable Recreational Kayak Review: Intex Challenger K1
• Inflatable Kayak Review: Tobin Wavebreak
• Kayak Review: Sun Dolphin Excursion 10
• Recreational Kayak Review: Perception Tribe 9.5
• Fishing Kayak Review: SeaStream Angler 120 PD