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Best Recreational Kayaks For 2026

By
Conor Mihell
-
The Wilderness Systems 120 is one of the most popular recreational kayaks available.
Image: Tammy Ryan

Recreational kayaks easily make up the largest segment of the paddlesports industry. What exactly is a recreational kayak? They are generally shorter, wider kayaks that focus on stability and comfort for a day on the lake, bay, slow rivers and other sheltered waters. You can buy a rec kayak just about anywhere, from box stores to huge online retailers, sporting goods outlets and niche paddling shops. Regardless of your age, size, budget, fitness level and paddling destination and overall aspirations, there’s truly a kayak for everyone; but you must take the time to do your homework and research the right boat for your situation to make the right selection. A recreational kayak may be a good fit, but making a selection is no easy task when there are hundreds to choose from.

We’re here to help! This article narrows down your options with some of my favorite recreational kayaks in a variety of categories, with an overview of key design, construction and safety features that will keep you happy on the water no matter where you paddle.

Best recreational kayaks: Our top picks

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Best all-around recreational kayak

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

The Wilderness Systems 120 is one of the most popular recreational kayaks available.
Image: Tammy Ryan
Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Specs
Length: 12’2”
Width: 29”
Weight: 49 lbs
Capacity: 325 lbs
Price: $1,099
wildernesssystems.com

Buy from:

WILDERNESS SYSTEMS DICK’S AMAZON

Why I love it

The Pungo is a true classic, an OG recreational kayak that helped define what’s become the most popular segment of paddlesports. I especially admire how Wilderness Systems has kept its timeless design modern, with seat upgrades for comfort and refinements to its hatch system for convenience and safety. Meanwhile, Wildy has remained steadfast to the Pungo’s tried and true hull design, which is versatile and capable for day paddling excursions on rivers, lakes and sheltered coastlines.

The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 was my top recommendation when my brother-in-law was looking for a beginner-friendly kayak to use at his new waterfront home on Lake Superior. It offers reassuring stability and a spacious cockpit that’s easy to enter and exit. The Phase 3 AirPro seating system provides all-day comfort and plenty of adjustability. As a 2022 Paddling Magazine review noted of the Pungo 120 it “sits right in the Goldilocks zone for a wide variety of paddlers.”

Reasons to buy
  •  A watertight rear bulkhead keeps the Pungo 120 floating even if the cockpit is swamped
  •  Time-proven and refined outfitting, including a paddled, ergonomic seat and easy to adjust foot braces
  •  Large cockpit strikes a fine balance between airiness for hot weather paddling and protection from the elements on cooler days
Consider another if
  •  You are on a tight budget
  •  Lightweight is a priority

Bottom Line

A classic sit-inside recreational kayak with widespread appeal.

Best for high-performance

Stellar Compass 11

Woman paddling a blue recreational kayak on a lake.
Image: Stellar
Stellar Compass 11 Specs
Length: 11’6”
Width: 27”
Weight: 30 lbs
Capacity: 330 lbs
Price: $3,465
stellarkayaks.com

Buy from:

STELLAR

Why I love it

I’ve always admired the easy paddling efficiency of Stellar kayaks and the Compass 11 takes cues from the brand’s missile-fast touring models. The Compass 11 features the distinct swede form shape (that is, the widest part of the hull is behind the cockpit) of super fast surf skis, combined with the reassuring stability you expect in a rec kayak. This affords incredible glide and tracking in a compact, 11-foot, six-inch boat. Outfitting is what you’d expect in a touring kayak, with easy-to-adjust Smart Track foot braces and a comfortable seat.

The Stellar Compass 11 is a stark contrast to a rec market loaded with heavy plastic boats and sluggish inflatables. The light and stiff fiberglass layup makes it easy to cartop and launch in the water. Most of all, I love how this kayak takes all the features of a high-end touring boat and shrinks them down to a recreational package, perfect for discerning day paddlers who want to find the abundant rewards of investing in the sport.

Reasons to buy
  •  Unmatched tracking, glide and paddling efficiency for a short recreational kayak
  •  Premium outfitting and lightweight construction
  •  Hatch and bulkhead for dry storage and safety
Consider another if
  •  You’re on a budget
  •  Durability is a top priority
  •  You’re looking for a kayak for overnight trips

Bottom Line

A recreational kayak with all the bells and whistles of a premium touring boat.

Best sit-on top

Eddyline Caribbean 100

woman paddles the Eddyline Caribbean 10 kayak under rosy skies
Image: Eddyline Kayaks
Eddyline Caribbean 100 Specs
Length: 10’
Width: 29”
Weight: 40 lbs
Capacity: 200 lbs
Price: $1,299
eddyline.com

Buy from:

EDDYLINE REI

Why I love it

You notice the stark difference between the Caribbean 100 and rugged yet heavy plastic sit-on top kayaks on both land and water. Tipping the scales at a light 40 pounds, the Caribbean 10 is easier to carry as well as faster to respond to paddle strokes due to its sleek and shiny thermoform construction. Its compact, 10-foot length makes it easy to maneuver for beginners, yet a straight keel line with minimal rocker keeps the Caribbean 10 moving straight on the water with impressive efficiency for such a short boat.

Eddyline is best known for its touring kayaks and some key features have trickled down to the Caribbean, the smallest offering in the brand’s kayak lineup. These include two watertight hatches for day gear, a clever “paddle park” (holder) built into the side carry handles, and easy-to-adjust foot braces. Overall, the Caribbean is a winner for lighter-weight adults and kids. The boat’s premium features make it far more enjoyable to paddle than cheaper boats.

Reasons to buy
  •  Premium build quality, outfitting details and finish make for better paddling performance, comfort and lightweight
  •  Fits smaller paddlers well
Consider another if
  •  You’re looking for a cheap sit-on top for more casual use
  •  You weigh more than 200 pounds (larger paddlers should consider the larger Eddyline Caribbean 120FS or Caribbean 140FS models)

Bottom Line

A can’t miss sit-on top for recreational paddlers: Compact, light and fun.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature
  • Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
  • Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

Best budget recreational kayak

Pelican Argo 100X

Woman in the budget friendly Pelican Argo 100X kayak.
Image: Pelican Kayaks
Pelican Argo 100X Specs
Length: 10’
Width: 28”
Weight: 36 lbs
Capacity: 275 lbs
Price: $349.99
confluenceoutdoor.com

Buy from:

PELICAN WALMART AMAZON

Why I love it

The Pelican Argo 100X is a cheap yet serviceable sit-inside rec kayak that’s available at many box stores. Price and availability are the primary reasons for its widespread popularity, but its paddling performance exceeds its sub-$350 price tag. A vee-shaped keel line and hard “rails” on the edges of the hull contribute to tracking and maneuverability alike. The Argo 100X is a step above the many mass-produced, ill-conceived recreational kayaks that could best be described as pieces of junk.

Outfitting is barebones yet adequate, especially for a kayak that’s only expected to perform light duty. Don’t ask this kayak for too much. Be cognizant of how its basic design and short length impose limits on seaworthiness and speed, and it will deliver paddling fun on sheltered water for years. Its robust rotomolded plastic construction means you can crash into rocks and leave it on the beach all summer long.

Reasons to buy
  •  Cheap and widely available
  •  Fits a wide range of paddlers
  •  Reasonable weight of 36 lbs
Consider another if
  •  Performance is a priority
  •  You’re a smaller person (the Pelican Argo 80X is a better choice for lighter-weight paddlers and kids)

Bottom Line

The best box store sit-inside kayak you can buy.

Best for overnight trips

Delta 12.10

Editor Joe Potoczak enjoying a day on the lake with the Delta 12.10.
Editor Joe Potoczak enjoying the Delta 12.10. | Image: Marcel Bieg
Delta 12.10 Specs
Length: 12’10”
Width: 25”
Weight: 41 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs
Price: $1,495
deltakayaks.com

Buy from:

DELTA REI

Why I love it

The Delta 12.10 bridges the gap between recreational and light-touring kayaks with a sweet blend of beginner-friendly stability, dry storage and safety features necessary for casual day paddling and embarking on weekend kayak camping trips. Delta was an early pioneer of thermoform construction, and the 12.10’s light, sleek build makes huge contributions to its paddling performance and overall appeal. Thermoform plastic is stiffer and more efficient than comparable rotomolded kayaks, as well as being easier to transport and more responsive to paddle strokes due to its lighter weight.

Besides its top-notch construction, the 12.10 borrows heavily from Delta’s longer touring kayaks. Front and rear hatches and bulkheads offer a lot of dry storage for such a short boat, as well as enabling the kayak to be emptied of water in an assisted rescue offshore. The sea kayak-inspired cockpit size seals well with a sprayskirt to keep you dry, with ergonomic thigh supports for the boat control I expect in an advanced touring kayak. Overall, this is a stable, easily paddling crossover kayak that you won’t grow out of too soon.

Reasons to buy
  •  Fits just about anyone
  •  Light, reasonably tough, easy paddling
  •  Touring-ready features, including front, rear and day hatches
Consider another if
  •  You aspire to go on longer multi-day trips
  •  Your friends paddle longer, faster touring kayaks

Bottom Line

Recreational kayak meets touring kayak in this versatile crossover.

Best rec kayak for kids

Old Town Breeze

Kid in kayak on lake.
Image: Old Town
Old Town Breeze Specs
Length: 9’6”
Width: 28.5”
Weight: 36 lbs
Capacity: 194 lbs
Price: $449.99
oldtownwatercraft.com

Buy from:

OLD TOWN BACKCOUNTRY AMAZON

Why I love it

The Old Town Ocean Kayak Breeze is a kayak clearly designed for kids, with a slim yet stable profile that makes it easier for smaller-sized bodies to balance and reach the water. There’s no better way to share the joy of paddlesports with youngsters than with a simple, open-deck boat – that’s built by a sit-on top kayak pioneer. There’s nothing to break on the rotomolded plastic hull, no moving parts or sharp edges. It is maneuverable and easy to handle, with good glide to allow kids to keep up. Multiple moulded footrests fit a variety of sizes, from kids to youth and smaller adults. What’s more, it also makes for a fantastic swim platform.

Reasons to buy
  •  Kid-specific sizing
  •  Simple and durable construction
  •  Built in Tag Along system makes it easy for adults to tow tired young paddlers
  •  Convenient carry handles in all the right places
Consider another if
  •  You paddle in cold water or exposed conditions
  •  You want a kids kayak that’s suitable for overnight trips

Bottom Line

Start them right with a playful sit-on top kayak that promises years of fun.

Best rec kayak for travel

Oru Kayak Lake

Author Conor Mihell testing the Oru Kayak Lake.
Author Conor Mihell testing the Oru Kayak Lake. | Image: Conor Mihell
ORU Lake Specs
Length: 9’
Width: 32”
Weight: 17 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
Price: $499
orukayak.com

Buy from:

ORU KAYAK

Why I love it

My skepticism of a 9-foot, origami folding kayak vanished the moment I took my first stroke in the ORU Lake. It’s a fun, comfy, stable and easy to paddle rec boat that’s impossible not to love. The Lake has so many great attributes. For starters, it weighs next to nothing at 17 pounds; it sets up in barely a minute and folds into a manageable backpack size that’s easy to take on a trek, trip or public transit; and the gel seat and adjustable foot bar make for a comfortable ride and fit for those up to 6’4″ and 250 pounds. You can even bring along a medium-sized dog in the large cockpit.

Reasons to buy
  •  Light and compact, appeals to globetrotters and apartment dwellers
  •  Great price for an innovative, beginner-friendly recreational kayak
  •  Agile and fun to paddle
Consider another if
  •  You’re looking for more speed and glide
  •  You wish to paddle in more exposed water conditions
  •  You’re a larger paddler

Bottom Line

A packable rec kayak that’s fun to paddle, convenient and unique.

Education: Get Some!
  • Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
  • Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
  • Take on-the-water skills training.

Recreational Kayak Buying Advice

Choosing the best recreational kayak for your paddling dreams takes time and effort. You’re cutting yourself seriously short if you simply make a trip to a box store and grab what’s on sale. Of course, budget is a determining factor in any purchase. But when it comes to kayaks, just like any product, you get what you pay for.

Research and test drive

Take your time, read online reviews, including the trove on Paddling Mag, and shop around. I always recommend buying from a dedicated paddling shop or outdoor store to get the best advice. Many paddling shops also offer the option to try before you buy, which is another top tip to invest in the best recreational kayak for your needs. You can also sign up for a kayak lesson and ask your instructor for their top kayak recommendations. Certified paddling instructors can offer trained expertise in key safety features, such as hatches and waterproof bulkheads, as well as design and construction nuances, which may be glossed over by sales staff.

Choosing for your local waterways

To narrow your selection, think about where you will do most of your paddling (river, lake or coastal waters); be honest about how serious you are about paddlesports (occasional use or a passionate pursuit); and think about what paddling activities you’re most interested in and likely to pursue (kayak angling, downriver paddling, touring or travel). Then, choose between a sit-on top (open deck, ideal for warm weather paddling and kayak fishing) or sit-inside (partial or full deck, best for cooler conditions, day paddling and touring).

Proper fit

Boat fit and comfort are personal parameters that are key to optimizing your paddling experience. At the very least, insist that you sit in a prospective kayak to “try it on for size.” Better yet, put it through the paces on the water at a paddling center or by borrowing a friend’s kayak.

Best recreational kayak brands

How we tested

Full disclosure: I’m a sea kayaker from way back. Years ago, when recreational kayaks first appeared on the market, I thumbed my nose at their short and squat dimensions. But just as rec kayaks have exploded in popularity, I’ve come to appreciate their appeal to paddlers who don’t kayak as demanding of circumstances as I do.

The pivotal moment came about a decade ago, when I (reluctantly) did some research and coached my mom on her first rec boat purchase. Since then, I watched her embrace casual outings at the cottage and amidst the mangroves of her winter home in Florida. It makes me smile to hear her describe the joys of exploring new waters by kayak. I drew on that experience and more in compiling this article, with the hopes that you too can discover paddling at whatever pace you choose.

Why trust us

Don’t ask me how I’ve come to make a career in paddlesports as an adventure travel writer, canoe and sea kayak guide, and outdoor educator. Youthful enthusiasm made me a sea kayak guide in the early 2000s. The trade put me through journalism grad school and kept me afloat as an editorial intern at Rapid Media in 2005, where I wrote my first boat and gear reviews and kickstarted my freelance career. Paddlesports have evolved over the past 25 years, and I feel fortunate to have seen (and tested) it all—and made a living to boot.

 

Best Paddleboard Seats For 2026

By
Dan Dakin
-
preson paddles the ISLE Explorer Pro hybrid SUP-kayak
Photo: Joe Potoczak

Standup paddleboards continue to be one of the fastest-growing activities on the water, and for good reason. They’re easy to transport, they’re not particularly expensive to purchase, and they give you an elevated view of the water unlike that of a kayak or canoe. Take a paddleboard out to a clear lake or river on a calm, sunny day and the views below the surface can be spectacular. In over a decade of paddleboarding, my single-most treasured experience remains paddling with manatees in Florida, where I had amazing views of these gentle giants gracefully moving around me.

However, for those with balance issues or who just find spending long paddles standing up on a board too taxing, simply adding a paddleboard seat and switching to a kayak paddle can be a game-changer, and creates one of the most versatile human-powered watercrafts imaginable. Here are a few options that will transform your standup paddleboard into a kayak-style watercraft with versatility and stability.

Best paddleboard seats: Our top picks

Wear The Appropriate Leash When Stand Up Paddleboarding
  • Always wear a leash on open bodies of water like lakes, bays, and oceans. Due to the risk of snags and entrapment, leashes should only be worn on rivers if they include a quick release attached to your life jacket.

Best Inflatable Paddleboard Seat

Thurso Surf Inflatable SUP Kayak Seat

Thurso Surf inflatable paddleboard seat.

$79.99 | thursosurf.com

Buy from:

THURSO SURF AMAZON

Why I love it

Stability is everything when it comes to paddleboard seats. The Thurso Surf SUP Kayak Seat is designed top to bottom to make you feel secure and stable on the board.

I love the four-inch thick cushion which gives you the flexibility of going as rigid or soft as you’d like depending on how much air you pump into it. The back has a wraparound-style design that provides good ergonomic support while paddling. And just like a quality inflatable SUP itself, the inflatable seat is made from a high-quality PVC and drop-stick material, meaning that it can handle the abuse paddleboards sometimes go through.

The four adjustable D-ring straps will make securing the Thurso Surf seat to your inflatable board easy, as long as your board comes with D-rings installed. There’s also a rear mesh storage pocket with enough room for snacks, water bottles or even a small jacket.

Reasons to buy
  • Uses the same standard inflator valve size as your SUP
  • Easy to install
  • 4” of seat cushion gets you off the board
Consider another if
  • The 4” seat doesn’t elevate you off the board enough
  • You don’t have an inflatable SUP, and don’t want to carry a pump just for your seat
  • You want to quickly add a seat to your board without the hassle of pumping

Bottom Line

The Thurso Surf combines the best of inflatable seats with the best of kayak seats, giving you the versatility to keep you on the paddleboard longer.

Best cushioned kayak-style paddleboard seat

Atoll Board Universal Sup-Kayak Seat

Atoll Board universal SUP seat.

$89.99 | atollboards.com

Buy from:

ATOLL

Why I love it

If you simply want to add a seat to your paddleboard with no fuss and little setup time, a clip-on foam-padded seat is the way to go. You won’t get the added cushion of an inflatable, but the back stability is key.

If you’ve spent any time in a kayak, you will understand the importance of getting the angle of the seat pack just right. Similarly, if you’re adding a seat to a paddleboard, you’re going to want to get the angle exactly where you prefer. With four adjustable upper straps and two down low, the Atoll Board Universal SUP-Kayak Seat gives you the customization you want.

Adjustability is the keyword on this seat, with plenty of straps and four marine-grade brass D-ring clips to secure it in place on your board.

The seatback itself—while looking like a king cobra—gives you a wide surface to lean against while paddling, which is exactly what you need. The back features reinforced nylon backing for lumbar support and an extra layer of durable mesh on the front to allow for quicker drying. The base of the seat is minimalistic, which makes it convenient and light when not in use.

Reasons to buy
  • Customizable seat back
  • Fantastic lumbar support
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Lots of straps to attach backpacks or waterproof bags to
Consider another if
  • Extra thick cushion is important to you
  • You want built-in storage without having to add your own

Bottom Line

The Atoll gives you the back support needed for long days on the board.

Best Paddleboard Seat for Camping

Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair

Therm-a-Rest Trekker chair.

$64.95-69.95 | cascadedesigns.com

Buy from:

THERMAREST AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY

Why I love it

Many people think that overnight paddling trips require a canoe and large kayak with water-tight storage. However, standup paddleboards with lots of tie-downs, combined with waterproof storage bags, can make for an epic paddling adventure option. Space on the board comes at a premium however, so adding a seat that can double as a sleeping pad is a no-brainer.

Rather than a seat specifically, the Trekker Chair is more of a tool to turn your Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad into a seat. The idea here is that you can use this super lightweight sleeve to fold your inflatable sleeping pad into a comfortable seat for on or off the paddleboard.

It has adjustable straps to change the angle of the seat back. The soft-cushioning features that make the Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads so comfortable at night also make this an extremely comfortable paddling seat.

Reasons to buy
  • You’re a camper who already owns a Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad
  • You want a minimalistic seat option
  • Cushion for your backside is more important than lumbar support for your back
Consider another if
  • You’re not a paddling camper
  • You want a seat you secure to your board’s D-rings
  • You’ve got a bad back and need lumbar support

Bottom Line

The Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair is the perfect solution for a particular segment for the multi-day paddleboarding crowd.

Best DIY Paddleboard Seat

Yeti Roadie 15

Yeti Roadie 15 Hard Cooler.

$200 | yeti.com

Buy from:

YETI AMAZON REI

Why I love it

Sometimes the simplest solution is also the most versatile and useful. If back support is not particularly important to you, but having a cold seltzer and food on hand for the day is, then using a hardshell cooler as a seat is a simple and useful option. Yeti has long established itself as the best in the cooler business, and the Yeti Roadie 15 hard cooler is the best option for sitting on a paddleboard.

At 14” tall, the Roadie is the easiest option on the knees of any paddling seat because it allows your legs to be in a natural seated position. Although it doesn’t have buckles to attach the cooler to your paddleboard, it does have slots for cam straps, and strapping the cooler to your SUP will do the trick. When you need to transport the seat/cooler when not on the board, the Roadie 15 has a padded shoulder strap.

Reasons to buy
  • The most natural seating position of any option
  • Enough cold storage for lots of drinks and snacks
  • Useful for much more than just paddling
Consider another if
  • You want any sort of back support
  • You’re looking for a cheap option
  • You want something designed specifically as a seat that clips to the board

Bottom Line

This is a surprisingly simple solution many paddleboarders turn to for sitting down and simply packing lunch.

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Standup Paddleboard Seat Buying Advice

Buying a paddleboard seat really comes down to a personal choice on what’s important to you. The first question to ask yourself is what is the biggest issue you’re trying to solve by sitting down, instead of standing, on a paddleboard? For some, it’s back pain. For others, it’s leg or foot discomfort. Some find sitting to be more stable than standing. For each of these priorities, there is a best option.

Those with bad backs should be looking first and foremost at a paddleboard seat that offers lumbar support and lots of adjustability in the seat back angle. You may need to compromise some seat cushion support or storage, but if your back is the biggest hindrance to being able to stay on the paddleboard for any length of time, then something like the Atoll seat or others like it will solve your problem.

For those who need more support for their backside than their back, an inflatable seat or another with robust back support may be the best option.

And from the creative category comes the idea of sitting atop a hardshell cooler while paddling. Plenty of people who like to SUP fish love this option because it gives them a secure place to stow their catch while also having a place to sit down. For others, the idea of lunch on the board or at a remote spot on the river is incredibly appealing. This is where the cooler concept shines.

Best Paddleboard Seat Brands

How we tested

The products included in this article were hand-picked through more than a decade of both paddling and product review experience.

Why trust us

Writer Dan Dakin has been a paddleboard racer and adventurer for more than a decade. He was the first person to paddle on all five Great Lakes in a single day, and has paddled or raced down rivers as long as 225 kilometers. These days, he gets as much enjoyment spending hours on lakes and rivers with his kids as he does crossing a finish line.

Feature Image: Joe Potoczak

The Bomb-Proof Roll Controversy (Video)

By
Maddy Marquardt
-

It’s a familiar pattern: paddler shares a rescue video on the internet. Others leap to the comment section to share their thoughts. Controversy ensues.

When Dimirtri Vandepoele posted a video of a rough water sea kayak rescue while paddling Pointe du Ra, an exposed headland in Brittany, he did so with the phrase “rescue training pays off”. Like many of Vandepoele’s North Sea Kayak videos, the rescue was shared as an educational moment. While playing in a tide rip together, Hugo Germonpre capsized and swam and Vandepoele went in for the rescue. Upon making contact with Germonpre, Vandepoele himself capsized as Germonpre tugged on Vandepoele’s decklines at the same time as a wave broke on the opposite side of the kayak.

Vandepoele quickly rolled and continued the rescue, retrieving Germonpre’s kayak while leaving Germonpre with a paddle in the air, then aided Germonpre in reentering the cockpit. From here, the pair continued paddling and playing in the tide race.

“You shouldn’t be out there without a bomb-proof roll”

Vandepoele’s video repeatedly incited a very specific comment: you shouldn’t be out there without a bomb-proof roll.

“Genuine question, what are you guys doing in this situation without a combat roll?” wrote a commenter on Instagram under the video.

Vandepoele replied, pointing out that a roll was seen in the video if you watch beyond the initial capsize, and that North Sea Kayak trains more often on self rescues. “We have seen people with a combat roll bailing out, and not knowing what to do next,” wrote Vandepoele.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dimitri Vandepoele (@northseakayak)

 “Have you guys considered learning how to roll?” wrote another commenter.

In Vandepoele’s reply, in addition to pointing out that there is in fact a roll in the video, he explained that he believes there’s no such thing as a “bomb-proof” roll.

“There comes a moment, where you are injured, or when the situation is dire and you have to bail out,” wrote Vandepoele. “I have seen paddler[s] with a ‘bomb-proof roll’ bail out and not be able to perform a rescue. That is why we find self-rescue more important than rolling.”

Meanwhile, Gulf Kayak Academy wrote ”train in the conditions that you are likely to face trouble in,” agreeing with Vandepoele that rescue practice beyond rolling is key.

Does a bomb-proof roll exist?

Germonpre isn’t the only experienced paddler to take a highly publicized swim recently. Even world-renowned kayaker Dane Jackson had his first swim in over five years on the Misstassinni in early Summer 2025, a swim that led to a torn MCL, calf muscle, and impact fractures on his Femur + Tibia.

In his YouTube video, Jackson took care to acknowledge the incident as a wet exit and swim.

“I wrecked my knee as I got ripped out of the boat. Well, I swam,” Jackson corrected.”And then as I swam I got ripped out of the boat.”

Later in the video, Jackson went on to drink a “bootie beer” through a slipper and laugh about the swim with his friends.

Paddling accidents and rescue shaming

Ultimately, rescue videos like Vandepoele’s can be a learning tool. Videos and case studies can allow us to learn more about the sport even when not on the water, but often these case studies are met with judgement.

As former editor of Adventure Kayak Magazine Tim Shuff writes:
“The paddling community judges accidents harshly. We are so determined to figure it out and ascribe a cause to the incident we often rush to conclusions before all the facts are available and blame the victims in the process. Instead, we ought to humbly reflect on what lessons the incident can teach us and give thanks for surviving our own near misses.”

bow shot of a sea kayaker with map paddling after another kayaker over an ocean swell while they are on an expedition When A Paddler Dies, We Are Too Quick To Judge

Feature Image: Dimitri Vandepoele, North Sea Kayak | YouTube

Everything You Need To Know About Buying A Grumman Canoe

By
Jake O'Flaherty
-
Grumman canoe sits on lake
Feature photo: Weston M/Unsplash

If you began paddling before the rise of plastics, chances are you’ve sat in an aluminum Grumman canoe. These iconic canoes have led many adventurous families, scout troops and Burt Reynolds wannabes on their first canoe trip.

In 1944, Grumman Aircraft Engineering’s Vice President, William Hoffman, conceived the idea to build an aluminum canoe with the same technology Grumman had been using for their aircraft. Presumably, this idea emerged after slogging a waterlogged wood-canvas canoe through the Adirondacks, as aluminum construction lightened the load significantly.

With shaped aluminum panels riveted together, these canoes could be mass-produced and sold at a reasonable price. Without the care and maintenance that wood-canvas canoes demanded, recreational canoeing was suddenly available to the masses.

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Grumman canoes are stable and fairly lightweight, considering how durable they are. The riveted aluminum construction resists warping, scraping, and most punctures. These are ideal canoes for anglers and hunters, or anyone who wants a boat that they don’t need to worry about. The metal construction will last generations. They are a bit noisy and frigid to the touch on cold days but consider a Grumman if that doesn’t bother you.

This article will provide you with everything you need to know about buying a Grumman canoe, whether it’s new or used. You will also find links to view specific models and compare the specifications with other popular canoes. Read on to learn more.

Best Canoe Brands For Tripping, Whitewater, Fishing & More

Best Grumman canoes

Grumman 17′ Square-Stern

Grumman 17 Square Stern

Grumman 17′ Square-Stern Specs
Length: 17’0”
Width: 36.6”
Weight: 85 lbs
Capacity: 825 lbs
MSRP: $2,899 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

Grumman’s 17-foot square-stern model is designed to be equipped with a motor for additional power. The reinforced transom at the back can support a five-horsepower outboard. At 85 pounds, this canoe is 10 pounds heavier than the 17-foot Double-Ender.

Users can paddle it with canoe paddles in areas where motors don’t work as well, like creeping into the weeds or marshy areas. These are good options for hunters, anglers or anyone who wants the extra power boost from a motor.

Grumman Sportboat

Grumman 15 Sportboat

Grumman Sportboat Specs
Length: 15’3”
Width: 43”
Weight: 122 lbs
Capacity: 450 lbs
MSRP: $4,199 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

To dabble in a bit of everything, consider Grumman’s 3-in-1 Sportboat. This 15’3” boat can be paddled like a canoe, equipped with a motor or rowed with oars. At 40 inches, it’s wider than any of Grumman’s other canoes. It will not paddle as efficiently as the Double-Ender, but it is much more stable. This is a good option for families who want to get on the water safely but don’t care how quickly they’ll move.

The transom and extra width account for the additional weight in this 122-pound craft. This is more of a boat than a canoe, but if you aren’t planning to portage it (don’t plan to portage it), the Sportboat might be a good choice.

Grumman Double-Ender

Grumman 13 Double Ender

Grumman Double-Ender Specs
Length: 13’0” | 15’0” | 17’0”
Width: 35.1″ | 35.1” | 36.1″
Weight: 58 | 69 | 75 lbs
Capacity: 585 | 650 | 755 lbs
MSRP: $2,099 | $2,249 | $2,399 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

Grumman’s aluminum Double-Ender canoes are the ones most people are familiar with. These take the traditional canoe shape. They are the best option for prospective buyers who plan on exclusively paddling with single-bladed canoe paddles rather than attaching outboard motors or using oars. These are the lightest canoes Grumman makes as well. You can find a Grumman Double-Ender at 13, 15, or 17 feet long.

The length you choose depends on a few factors, and there are often tradeoffs when deciding which length to buy. Longer canoes get heavier, but they also increase the cargo capacity. You’ll track much better in a 17-foot canoe, but a 13-foot Double-Ender turns more readily.

For this reason, solo paddlers will have an easier time controlling a 13- or 15-foot canoe, while a 17-foot canoe provides ample space for overnight trips for two or outings with a dog. Choose the 17-footer if you’ll always have a paddling partner, the 13-footer if you’ll be solo more often, and the 15-footer for a bit of both.

Shopping for a used Grumman canoe?

Used Grumman or other aluminum canoes are good low-risk purchases. If you are looking for a basic canoe to get from A to B or to leave at the hunt camp, you’ll find Grummans for low prices. As they are so durable, unless they’ve suffered catastrophic damage, it will still probably be fine to paddle even if they’ve been neglected for a while.

When you’re buying a used Grumman, consider where to look, what to look for and how much to pay when you find it.

Where to look

Since they’ve been in production so long and last almost forever, your chances of finding a used Grumman canoe are pretty high. They are especially popular among the hunting and fishing crowd, so you may have good luck searching in smaller towns. You can start shopping for a used Grumman right now by opening up your favorite online classifieds site. On Kijiji or Craigslist, Grumman canoes might be simply listed as “aluminum canoes” or another general term.

Cast a wide net to make sure that you don’t miss these postings. Another strategy might be to post a “wanted” ad on a community page. People may have aluminum canoes sitting in their backyards that they just haven’t gotten around to selling, and in these cases, they would be happy for you to take the boat off their hands.

What to look for

Since these canoes are so tough, most used ones will probably still be seaworthy. You’ll still want to inspect the boat and test it if you can. Flip the canoe over and look for weak points along the hull where it may have been repeatedly scraped and dragged. Two areas to check are the stems, the narrow aluminum plates that cover the seams at the bow and stern of the canoe.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature
  • Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
  • Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

If they’ve been bashed enough times they may have cracked, which could mean a leaky canoe. Best to get the canoe into some water and look for any water seeping in. Small holes are easy enough to repair with a bit of solder. Lift the canoe and listen for any water sloshing around in the bow and stern float tanks.

How much to pay

Used Grumman canoe prices will vary significantly depending on their condition and reason for the sale. You might find them for less than $500 if a seller is keen to clear it out. A newer canoe may sell for more, between $800–$1,000.

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

Grumman canoe buying advice

If you’ve decided that Grumman canoes are the way to go, check out their offerings below. We’ll touch on the three types of canoes they offer and who would enjoy them. Aluminum canoes are rare, and plastic has overtaken metal as the go-to for inexpensive, durable boats, but they still have their uses. While plastic canoes are susceptible to UV damage from the sun, you can leave an aluminum canoe exposed to sun, snow, heat and sleet; it will paddle the same as ever.

Grummans are stable, long-lasting canoes, ideal for recreational paddling, angling or hunting. Your preferred means of propulsion and how many people will be paddling the canoe will determine the best model and length to choose.

  • Is a Grumman a good canoe?

    Grumman makes good aluminum canoes. These canoes are ideal for recreational paddling or paddlers who want a canoe that requires virtually no maintenance.

  • When did Grumman start making canoes?

    Grumman started to make canoes in 1944, as World War II brought an industrial surge through the United States. The company originally made aluminum fighter planes in the war, and took the expertise for bending and riveting aluminum sheets and applied it to canoe building. The result was the first commercially viable recreational canoes.

  • Does Grumman still make canoes?

    Marathon Boat Group owns the Grumman brand now, and they’re still churning out canoes, although with fewer options compared to their peak in the 1970s and 80s. Today, you can find three canoe models in different lengths.

  • Grumman canoe models

    There are three different Grumman canoe models available this year. The Double-Ender is a classic canoe shape. The Square-Stern and 3-in-1 Sportboat are both flat at the stern for mounting outboard motors. Any of the models have optional paint in five colors.

Stay Clear Of All Other Vessels
  • Know the “Rules of the Road” Navigation Rules that govern all boat traffic and stay out of the way of all other vessels.
  • Never assume that power boaters can see you. Avoid high-traffic areas whenever possible. Proceed with caution when you can’t avoid paddling near boats. Dress for visibility.

  • Grumman canoe sizes

    Grumman’s “Double-Ender” is available at 13, 15, and 17 feet long and 35-36 inches at the widest point. The Square-stern canoe is 17 feet with a 36 ⅝” beam. The 3-in-1 Sportboat is just longer than 15 feet and 40 inches wide.

  • Grumman canoe dimensions

    Grumman canoe specs vary depending on the model. The dimensions of discontinued Grumman canoes may be found online or by contacting Grumman directly.

  • Weight of Grumman canoes

    Grumman canoe weights range from 58 pounds for the 13-foot Double-Ender to 122 for the 3-in-1 Sportboat.

    The weight of Grumman Double-ender canoes is comparable to some polyethylene and fiberglass canoes of equal lengths.

  • Grumman canoe prices

    New Grumman canoes start at $1,500. Prices vary depending on the model and length.

  • Grumman canoe value

    Used Grumman canoes hold their value well because of their long life. Unless it suffers catastrophic damage, the canoe will perform the same as it did when it was brand new. Used Grumman canoe prices will vary. Some may just want to clear the canoe out, while others will list it close to the sticker price. From 50–80% of the original price is fair for a used aluminum canoe.

  • Grumman canoe dealers

    If you’re wondering where to buy a Grumman canoe, use the dealer locator tool. Grumman canoes are sold at independent outfitters, who may also be able to order a canoe in for you.

Compare Grumman canoes

  • Alumacraft vs Grumman canoe

    Minnesota-based boat manufacturer Alumacraft began producing canoes shortly after Grumman. They no longer make canoes, instead focusing on aluminum boats, but you can still find used ones for sale periodically.

    An Alumacraft canoe that’s in good shape will still provide the same durability of a Grumman canoe. If you know you want an aluminum canoe, either will meet your expectations. Grumman is a good choice if you’re set on a new aluminum canoe rather than a used one.

 

Best Kayak Seats For 2026

By
Joe Potoczak
-
Whether paddling a sit-on-top kayak or a sit-inside kayak, the general guidelines on what to wear while on the water remain the same. | Photo: Scott MacGregor

The well-worn saying, “It’s like riding a bike,” has a second meaning when it comes to kayaking. Like the saddle of our two-wheeled counterpart, the seating area in a kayak is not always the most comfortable. Like a bike, stretching and putting in time could improve the situation, but at the end of the day, if your kayak isn’t comfortable, you aren’t going to want to spend time paddling it.

One of the tough parts about kayak seats, especially for sit-insides, is that the seats are generally factory-produced to fit inside of the kayak they were designed for. This doesn’t mean you are out of luck. Depending on whether you have a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak, there are aftermarket options. To bring some relief and make your kayaking experience an enjoyable one, here are some of the best solutions available.

Best kayak seats: Our top picks

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Best for sit inside kayaks

Cascade Creek Yakpads Paddle Saddle

Cascade Creek Yakpads Paddle Saddle.

$47.95 | cascadecreek.com

Buy from:

CASCADE CREEK AMAZON

Why I love it

Sit-inside kayaks are rather limited in the manufactured upgrades you can make to the seat. Custom building your own additional padding is an option using closed-cell foam or other items like pool noodles, but that is time-consuming. The Yakpads Paddle Saddle from Cascade Creek is a more convenient and pretty affordable choice for comfort in your recreational or touring kayak.

The pad will fit just about any bucket seat. It isn’t extremely thick, however, it is filled with silicone elastomer gel—the same stuff that is in those squishy, comfy bike seats. The Paddle Saddle also has a non-skid bottom to keep it in place, and two small loops so you can connect it to the rest of your outfitting. It is just a bottom, so it isn’t providing back support, but the small footprint makes it a convenient upgrade for most kayakers who just need a little extra cushion.

Reasons to buy
  • Low cost
  • Small footprint compatible for most sit-inside kayak seats
  • Cushy gel seat
Consider another if
  • You need additional back support
  • You need thicker padding

Bottom line

The Cascade Creek Yakpads Paddle Saddle is a quick solution to make your sit-inside kayak more comfortable.

Best seat for sit-on-top kayaks

Skwoosh Expedition Seat

Skwoosh Expedition kayak seat.

$136.49 | skwoosh.com

Buy from:

SKWOOSH

Why I love it

Sit-on-top kayaks often come without a seat or include a very cheap one, instead relying on paddlers to spend hours sitting on the molded in shape of the rotomolded plastic. If there is a kayak seat out there that turns bare plastic into an executive’s chair, it is the Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat.

Sit-on-tops are easier to accommodate with aftermarket chairs because they generally follow a similar shaped scoop and have multiple eyelets around the cockpit to clip a seat into. The Skwoosh has liquid gel padding under your tush. It also provides a backrest for support. The Expedition seat doesn’t stop there however, it also has an adjustable lumbar pad and fiberglass rods to provide structure to the seat system overall. With the name expedition in mind, it also doesn’t overlook the need for gear storage, and includes water bottle holders and a bungee pocket on the back.

Reasons to buy
  • Gel seat cushion
  • Bolstered back support with adjustable lumbar padding
  • Small storage area
  • A kayak seat upgrade to most sit-ons
Consider another if
  • You are looking for a cheap option

Bottom line

The Skwoosh Expedition is the closest you’ll find to a luxury kayak seat for a low seat position sit-on-top kayak.

Best budget seat

Harmony Gear Standard Sit-On-Top Seat

Harmony Gear standard seat.

$29.99 | confluenceoutdoor.com

Buy from:

HARMONY GEAR AMAZON

Why I Love It

If your sit-on-top kayak didn’t come with a seat, or you need a replacement, the Harmony Gear Standard Sit-On-Top Seat is a well-constructed, to-the-point seat that will fit just about any sit-on-top kayak.

Sit-on-tops often have a scooped-out bucket seat molded into the plastic design. They also generally have four eyelets around the cockpit of the paddler. One of the reasons these are here is to attach a seat. The seat from Harmony features corrosion-resistant clips and webbing straps to attach to these points. It has 14 inches of back support and adjusts to help you sit forward or lean back. It’s nothing fancy, but it provides what you need: padding, support and trusty hardware.

Reasons to buy
  • Cost-effective seat
  • Compatible with most sit-on-top kayaks
Consider another if
  • You want thicker padding
  • You want more elaborate adjustments and support

Bottom line

The Harmony Gear Standard Sit-On-Top Seat is all you need to outfit a sit-on-top kayak with a seat.

Best cushion for fishing kayaks and raised sit-on-top kayak seats

Kayak Kushion

Kayak Kushion.

$69.99 | kayakkushion.com

Buy from:

KAYAK KUSHION ECO FISHING SHOP

Why I love it

The high-position, frame seats that come standard on many of the most popular fishing kayaks and some sit-on-tops have brought comfort a long way for casual paddling and angling. Even with the raised position though, these seats are just fabric stretched over a metal frame. The square Kayak Kushion provides up to two inches of padding to provide the comfort needed for a long day of fishing or sightseeing

The Kayak Kushion is a breathable pad, with ventilation to help avoid perspiration on the seat. The cover is also removable so you can wash it. And the Kayak Kushion’s Tactical Straps and cam buckles secure it to your raised kayak seat. The Kushion is stitched together to handle the rigors of fishing, but anyone with a high-seated sit-on-top will enjoy adding this plush little kayak pillow underneath them.

Reasons to buy
  • Up to two inches thick
  • Breathable material
  • Removable cover
  • Constructed for heavy use
Consider another if
  • You have a molded-in sit-on-top kayak seat
  • Need a one-piece bottom and back

Bottom line

Whether you are spending the day fishing or paddling around the pond, the Kayak Kushion provides padding to spend the day in your raised sit-on-top seat.

Education: Get Some!
  • Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
  • Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
  • Take on-the-water skills training.

Kayak seat buying advice

The number one aspect to consider when shopping for a kayak seat is whether it will fit in your boat. Most sit-inside kayak seats are built by the manufacturers specifically for the dimensions of the kayak, so in that case, adding padding is the best bet. You can make your own with foam or pool noodles, but you can also find manufactured options with gel or foam padding that have a small footprint to slide under your bottom.

Sit-on-tops tend to fall into two categories: low, molded-in seats or raised, frame seats. Molded-in seats will take an aftermarket clip-in kayak seat pretty universally. The trick here, when you see a long list of seats on Amazon, read the reviews from others or, better yet, trust a brand that also manufactures kayaks or is carried by kayak shops. People have low-seated sit-on-tops with a raised from seat, but I generally wouldn’t recommend this unless the manufacturer has approved it because it significantly raises the center of balance of the paddler on a kayak that wasn’t designed for that position.

Stadium seats are interesting. There are some aftermarket options, but since these are designed for the kayak lineup, I would generally recommend sticking with the seat that is there and adding cushioning to it.

You want your kayak to be comfortable, and what I can’t stress enough is to sit inside a kayak before you even buy it. Even if you are putting it down in a store aisle. Climb in and sit in it for a few minutes. If you are aching right away, that isn’t a good sign, and you aren’t going to enjoy it. First, check the outfitting either yourself or with knowledgeable staff. If that doesn’t fix it, a kayak seat may help, but if it doesn’t, then that kayak may not be a good fit for you.

Best kayak seat brands

How we tested

To decide on the best kayak seats, we used experience with various products and researched the options currently available as well as listened to the opinions of our fellow paddlers.

Why trust us

My early early days of kayaking included cramming myself into small whitewater kayaks with painfully tight outfitting. Once I figured out the sport is actually much more fun, and safe, when you are comfortable I’ve become much more picky about ensuring my seat and outfitting are right. I’d like for everyone who kayaks to be comfortable so they too can enjoy the experience of being on the water.

Image: Scott MacGregor

Best Pyranha Kayaks For 2026

By
Jake O'Flaherty
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Overhead shot of someone paddling a whitewater kayak through a wave
Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Based in the U.K., Pyranha celebrated 50 years in the kayak-building business in 2021. A lot has changed since Pyranha’s 1971 prototypes first hit the water. Legends in the whitewater world, Pyranha whitewater kayaks have run rivers across the globe and have topped freestyle kayaking podiums since the discipline was better known as “rodeo.” You don’t need to be an expert kayaker or planning a trip to Greenland or the Himalaya to enjoy these kayaks—although Pyranha whitewater kayaks can handle the fiercest class V rivers.

Today’s Pyranha catalog features high performance whitewater kayaks, but also recreational and crossover models. They’re built in a new facility in Britain, and kayakers still run the company, designing boats that continue to push the limits. If you’re looking for quality sea kayaks or recreational touring models, check out Pyranha’s sister brands, P&H Sea Kayaks and Venture.

Whether you’re gearing up for another great season, or shopping for your very first river kayak, consider a Pyranha whitewater kayak.

Best Kayak Brands For Fishing, Sea Kayaking, Touring & More

Top picks: Best Pyranha kayaks

Pyranha Scorch

man paddles the Pyranha Scorch whitewater kayak
The Pyranha Scorch offers easy handling in tricky conditions. | Feature photo: Paul Robert Wolf Wilson
Pyranha Scorch Specs
Length: 8’10”
Width: 25”
Weight: 50 lbs
Capacity: 145-200 lbs
MSRP: $1,799 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“The Pyranha Scorch hit the market in 2021 as a successor to the classic Burn. Billed as a boundary-smashing river runner and creek boat hybrid, the Scorch combines and refines characteristics from three of Pyranha’s latest and greatest hits. After getting it on the river, I can attest, it’s one of the best whitewater kayaks out there today. The Scorch starts with a bow and elongated hull influenced by the 9R, beloved for its speed and squared-off stern. The wide planing hull and sharp edges of the Scorch are pulled from the speedy Ripper, known for its nimble playfulness and carving ability.“ [ Read full review ]

Pyranha 12R

Pyranha’s updated Stout 2 outfitting features improved comfort, ergonomics and overall adjustability, and is easily customized. | Photo: Graham Kent
Pyranha 12R Specs
Length: 12′
Width: 24.5”
Weight: 57 lbs
Capacity: 132-275 lbs
MSRP: $1,600 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“Longboats aren’t just for the speed-hungry racing niche. These big boats are designed for big fun—they go ultra-fast and are equally at home tackling huge rapids or holding many days’ worth of gear. I already own a longboat, a Liquidlogic Stinger XP. As soon as I heard about the Pyranha 12R, I was intrigued and knew I wanted to paddle it and compare…” [ Read full review ]

Pyranha Ripper

kayaker boofing off a small waterfall
Let it rip in the Pyranha Ripper. | Photo: Paddling Mag Staff
Pyranha Ripper Specs
Length: 8’11”
Width: 25.5”
Weight: 44 lbs
Capacity: 145-210 lbs
MSRP: $1,599 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“While some bigger boats take more muscle to get moving, thanks to the combination of light weight and hull design, I get the Ripper going in a hurry. I’m surprised at the speed I can achieve in only a few short strokes. The Ripper has a narrow bow helping punch through holes and keep paddlers on track. Pearson and his design team managed to keep enough volume up there to ride over waves and give my toes a decent amount of wiggle room too...” [ Read full review ]

Pyranha ReactR

Pyranha ReactR Specs
Length: 8’1”
Width: 27.5″
Weight: 51 lbs
Capacity: 155-210 lbs
MSRP: $1,899 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

“Ride higher and drier in rapids, scream into eddies faster than ever, and find your line without any limitations. The ReactR is Pyranha’s most innovative design yet, and opens new doors within the world of creek and river running for kayakers of all abilities. In the design of the ReactR, Pyranha has spent significant time developing an entirely new style of hull, with an ideally positioned pivot point and two planing surfaces, one in front and another behind, which the paddler can switch between with ease.”

Shopping for a used Pyranha kayak?

If you’re looking at buying a used Pyranha kayak, there are a few things to consider. First, and most importantly, consider whether the used kayak you are viewing is the best fit for your intended use; our Paddling Buyer’s Guide is a great place to find specs, descriptions and reviews for each model. Next, give the used kayak a thorough inspection, paying special attention to the following areas.

Hull (bottom) and deck (top)

Pyranha makes their kayaks with their proprietary high-density polyethylene (HDPE) blend. HDPE is the material of choice for whitewater kayaks because of its durability. However, every material has a breaking point, and you’ll want to thoroughly check the hull of any used kayak for cracks or punctures. Another advantage of HDPE is that it is more readily repairable than other plastics. Your local Pyranha dealer can hook you up with a tube of plastic weld to fix minor damage yourself.

Cause for concern on the hull or deck might be areas that are excessively faded. Ask the seller how they stored the kayak; HDPE weakens if it is exposed to continuous direct sunlight, and faded or soft-feeling spots on the hull are reliable indicators of sun damage.

Outfitting

The biggest disadvantage of an older used whitewater kayak is likely to be rudimentary outfitting. This includes the seat, backband, thigh braces and foot braces, if present. Modern whitewater (and recreational) kayaks feature more padding and adjustability, quick-dry materials and other refinements that improve fit and comfort.

The outfitting of a used kayak might also be worn out and need replacement. Many fixes or improvements can be improvised with a bit of closed-cell foam, contact cement and ingenuity, or chat with a Pyranha dealer to inquire about replacement parts.

Hardware

The kayak’s hardware is what keeps the outfitting in place. Bolts and washers might wear out over time, especially ones that run through the hull. These can make the foot pegs feel loose, or worse, leak water into the kayak. You may need to replace worn or missing hardware, or add a sealant like Locktite to keep it snug.

For more tips on selecting a used kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Kayak.

Pyranha kayak buying advice

Thanks to widespread pandemic restrictions, interest in paddling has surged over the past two years, and Pyranha has enjoyed the same success as many other kayak manufacturers. As Pyranha is a medium-sized company, they have already filled all of their orders for the 2022 paddling season. For prospective buyers, this means you won’t be able to complete direct orders.

However, Pyranha is busy churning kayaks out of their British factory, and dealers who placed orders will have boats to sell this year. The best way to get into a new Pyranha kayak is to contact a dealer near you. You can find your closest dealer using the dealer locator tool on Pyranha’s website.

If you’re looking to buy a Pyranha kayak, or any whitewater kayak, it’s important to define the type of paddling you plan to do. Kayak design changes depending on where and how the boat is intended to be used. Although certain models have their strengths, paddlers today want kayaks that can do more than one thing. The lines between once-rigid categories have begun to blur. You’ll find that a lot of Pyranha kayaks are designed for versatility on the river.

River runners

River runners comprise the bulk of Pyranha’s lineup. These longer kayaks are designed for covering downriver distance and having fun along the way. They incorporate elements of both creek boats and freestyle kayaks. The award-winning Pyranha Machno is classified as a river runner but borrows heavily from creek boats; this is a forgiving choice for paddlers who want to travel fast between features on the river.

Also in the river running category, the Pyranha 9R is tailored to aggressive, experienced paddling. This classic design received an overhaul in 2020 and is now tailored to winning whitewater races in the sub-9-foot “short class”. Even if you aren’t racing, this is a fast boat for ripping down local rivers. For even more speed and fun, check out the stretched-out 12R.

The Pyranha Scorch (available in three sizes as well as the speedy 10-foot Scorch X) incorporates a bit more volume and rocker for a boat that carves clean lines and delivers a dry ride while blasting your way down the river. Higher volume whitewater kayaks are more buoyant, enabling them to punch through waves and holes. Rocker describes the amount of upsweep from the mid-section through the ends of the kayak. More rocker equates to better maneuverability and the tendency to ride up and over obstacles instead of through them.

The Pyranha Ripper combines an upturned, buoyant bow with a playful, squashed stern and planing (flat, rather than curved or V-shaped) hull for a kayak that is fast downriver but also supremely surfable on glassy or breaking waves. This is a great all-around kayak that is equally comfortable blasting through big rapids or playing on mid-sized features.

The Pyranha Ozone bridges the gap between the Ripper and the freestyle Jed. Available in three sizes to fit a range of paddlers, the Ozone features a planing hull, lower volume and aggressive edges, so you can surf, carve and cartwheel as you pick your way down the river.

Playboats

The Jed playboat is Pyranha’s freestyle champion. Playboats like this one are best used for surfing and performing aerial tricks on standing waves. These short “spud” boats have low volume and flatter, slicey ends to make it easier to perform freestyle moves. The Jed is a culmination of 50-plus years of whitewater development and expertise.

The result is a boat that consistently wins freestyle competitions in the hands of expert paddlers, but is also friendly for beginner paddlers. Check out an in-depth review of the Jed to learn more.

Whitewater kayak strapped to roof of a pickup truck
Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Crossovers

Crossover kayaks are an exciting development, merging whitewater hulls and performance with touring features and efficiency. The whitewater hull with a drop-down skeg (fin under the stern that aids with traveling straight) gives the Pyranha Fusion II elements of both worlds. Extending the length of a standard river running hull creates space for the Fusion II’s stern hatch, increasing storage capacity and opening these boats up for overnight trips.

Crossovers do everything well but nothing great; these are ideal for short tours or moderate whitewater. Some sea kayakers turn to these nimble designs for surfing and playing in the ocean. The Fusion Duo tandem is for adventurous partners who want to get on the water together; it’s also ideal for introducing a new paddler to easy whitewater.

The Fusion hull is also used for Pyranha’s Fusion SOT, a versatile sit-on-top that can be configured for recreational paddling or equipped with thigh straps for a fun, easy-to-use surf boat.

Recreational kayaks

Pyranha’s only other current sit-on-top offering is the Surfjet 2.0. It’s available as a bare-bones recreational kayak that can be kitted out with surf-ready outfitting like the Fusion SOT or upgraded with comfortable touring features like a padded, high-back seat and paddle park. Or paddle as-is for a fun, simple boat for casual or family kayaking. The high-quality materials and Pyranha’s kayak design experience set this recreational kayak apart from the ones you’ll find on the shelves of big-box stores.

Finally, Pyranha’s Master TG and TG Lite are designed for paddlers new to whitewater. These are great, forgiving kayaks for anyone looking to start paddling or transition from recreational paddling to a bit of easy whitewater. The TG Lite is a downsized version specially designed for young paddlers.

Most Pyranha kayak models come in multiple sizes (small, medium and large) with a size chart listed in the specs. Some paddlers may want to size up or down depending on the rivers they are paddling, choosing a larger size for the additional volume the kayak provides.

Use this as a start, and remember that online research will only get you so far. The best advice we can offer is to always test paddle before buying any boat. The more time you can spend on the water in a similar style of kayak, the better the purchasing decision you will make.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Pyranha kayaks.

  • Old Pyranha kayak models

    Trends come and go, and you might come across a new, discontinued Pyranha kayak or a secondhand kayak that is no longer made. Chances are, we’ve reviewed it in Paddling Magazine. Browse our archives to find reviews of past models.

  • Pyranha kayaks discontinued

    Some Pyranha kayak models have been discontinued, but you still might find them on sales floors or the used market. If there’s an older model that you love but can’t find, chat with your local Pyranha dealer. Many of Pyranha’s newer models inherit characteristics from classic designs, and they can help you find one that fits the same niche on the water.

  • Pyranha kayak size guide

    Unsure what size Pyranha kayak will offer the best fit? Check the size guide provided with each model’s specifications. Most Pyranha kayaks come in Small, Medium and Large iterations. If there’s only one size, check the recommended paddler weight listed in the specs.

  • How long is a Pyranha kayak?

    Pyranha kayak lengths vary between models and slightly between sizes. You may find a six-inch difference in length between the small and large versions of the same kayak model.

  • Pyranha kayaks price

    Prices of Pyranha kayaks vary between models. Compared to other whitewater kayak companies, these are average prices for high-performance boats.

  • Pyranha kayak dealers

    Find a Pyranha kayak dealer near you by using their dealer locator tool.

  • Where are Pyranha kayaks made?

    Pyranha kayaks are made in their factory in Great Britain. The factory also makes kayaks for their sister companies, P&H Sea Kayaks and Venture recreational kayaks.

Two people whitewater kayaking
Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Pyranha kayak reviews

Paddling Magazine has reviewed nearly every Pyranha kayak on the market. Click on the links below to read unbiased reviews from our team and paddlers who own the kayaks. This can help you decide if the boat is the right fit for you.

How To Pick The Perfect Women’s Paddleboard

By
Courtney Sinclair
-
woman stands beside paddleboard silhouetted in the sunset
Feature photo: Chilmars/Pexels

The selection of women’s standup paddleboards seems to grow by the day, and with so many choices on the market, this article will help narrow down the options to help you find the best paddleboards for women.

When we say the best standup paddleboard for women, we’re not referring to those paddleboards which are simply a pink or purple remake of a generic model and are marketed as “for women.” We are talking about the actual best suited paddleboards on the market for adventurous moms or cool aunts paddling with kids on board, for women looking to take their fitness on the water or enter a race, and for women who love to SUP with their pup.

We’ll also round up the best paddleboard designs tailored for women who paddle surf, run rapids, enjoy paddleboard camping, paddle out on day trips, relax and enjoy a sunset on their paddleboard, or practice SUP yoga.

Although not all paddleboards are designed with women in mind, with the right information on what to look for, you’ll be able to identify which features and sizing make for the best paddleboards for women. The best standup paddleboard for a woman takes into account her height and weight, her intended use of the paddleboard and any desired features, her strength, and the weight and ease of lifting and carrying the paddleboard. The length, width and volume of the paddleboard, the comfort and placement of the carry handle, and the shaping of the paddleboard all come into play—you deserve to have it all.

It’s also helpful to know what doesn’t work for many women paddleboarders. Here are some of the most common problems with generic standup paddleboards:

  • The paddleboard is too long for its intended use
  • The paddleboard has too much volume, making it cumbersome on the water
  • The paddleboard is too heavy to easily maneuver and load/unload on a vehicle
  • The paddleboard is too wide for comfortable paddling and carrying
  • The paddleboard carry handle style hurts the fingers during transportation

Steer clear of these issues by choosing a SUP board that fits you and your paddling aspirations. Read on for buying advice for new and used women’s paddleboards, as well as links to reviews and top paddleboards for women.

Shopping for a used women’s paddleboard?

Shopping used is a great way to save some cash on a secondhand women’s paddleboard, but there are some key things to consider when buying a “new to you” SUP for women.

When looking at used boards, don’t allow yourself to get caught up in what is seemingly a great deal without asking, “Is this the right paddleboard for me?” Ask yourself if the paddleboard were new and at a higher price point, would you still consider it? Does it have the appropriate sizing, functionality, features and weight that is best suited for you and your paddling needs, or is it simply appealing at this price?

Similarly, don’t get caught up in flashy graphics or an eye-catching design without considering whether you’ll be happy with the paddleboard’s performance, and if you’ll be able to carry and lift it easily. Before buying a used standup paddleboard, pick up the board to ensure that it is light and comfortable enough to transport.

The last thing you want to do is invest in a board that is hard to move and lift for securing on the top of a vehicle. It is also worth noting how the carry handle feels in your hand when moving the board, as some designs can be really uncomfortable.

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

The absolute best way to know how a paddleboard feels and performs on the water is to take it for a test paddle. Ask the seller to meet at a location where you can try the board out on the water. Don’t forget to bring a paddle and PFD (unless these are included with the sale) and wear the clothes you plan to paddle in. If a SUP paddle is part of the used package, this is a great added value, but be sure it is sized appropriate to your height and intended use.

For more general tips on what to look for in a used standup paddleboard and how to determine the condition of the used board, read our article How To Buy A Used Paddleboard.

Women’s paddleboard buying guide

Like any outdoor equipment that is advertised as women-specific, some paddleboard manufacturers do a great job of considering real women’s needs and desires, while others simply re-issue generic boards in different colors or graphics. We’ll share what features are better suited to women on average, and how to tell whether a paddleboard is actually appropriate for women or just clever marketing.

As a female standup paddleboard instructor, around 90 percent of my clients are women. Although some of them use women’s standup paddleboards that they love and work well for them, it is also common for women to show up with paddleboards that aren’t exactly the best match. Earlier, I mentioned these common problems with women using ill-suited generic paddleboards:

  • The paddleboard is too long for its intended use
  • The paddleboard has too much volume, making it cumbersome on the water
  • The paddleboard is too heavy to easily maneuver and load/unload on a vehicle
  • The paddleboard is too wide for comfortable paddling and carrying
  • The paddleboard carry handle style hurts the fingers during transportation

So now that we know what to watch out for, this leads to the question, “What should I look for in a women’s paddleboard?” Consider these guidelines to narrow down the best paddleboards for women.

Appropriate sizing

In North America, the average height of a woman is 5’4” while the average height of a man is 5’9”. On average, North American men also weigh about 30 lbs more than women. Of course, these are just averages and there will be plenty of variation for both men and women, but let’s use these values to better understand paddleboard sizing.

Most paddleboard designs are unisex—in other words, they aren’t targeted to a particular gender. Yet most of these generic paddleboards are designed at the upper limits, with the average height and weight of a man in mind. You can see how a smaller-than-average woman might find herself with an oversized board.

So how do you size appropriately? There is a sweet spot in terms of paddleboard length, recommended weight capacity and volume. Typically, the weight of the paddler is used to determine the required length and volume of the paddleboard. Here is a general guideline for beginners:

Weight on board Recommended length
Under 150 lbs 9’6” to 11’
150–225 lbs 10’6” to 12’6”
Over 225 lbs 11’6” to 14’

The volume of a paddleboard is related to its buoyancy, and therefore its recommended weight capacity. It is important to confirm that you are within the maximum weight capacity of the board and have accounted for additional weight such as kids, dogs or camping gear that you may also carry. You don’t want to be too close to the maximum weight capacity or the paddleboard may feel unstable and sluggish.

Performance will also suffer if you are near the bottom limit of the suggested weight range. Instead, look for a board length and volume that puts your weight mid-range in the “sweet spot” of recommended weight capacity.

For reference, at 5’7” and about 170 lbs I had a challenging time handling a board that was 14 feet long, but really enjoyed paddleboards in the 11’6” to 12’6” range.

Intended use of the paddleboard

There are many different ways to enjoy the water through paddleboarding, which means there are many types of paddleboards, each best suited to their different intended uses.

SUP yoga is a popular and growing activity, especially among women paddleboarders. If the main use of your paddleboard is for SUP yoga, ensure that the board width is at least 32 inches for good stability, and that the deck pad is large and well cushioned. Another handy feature is a place where you can attach an anchor, useful for stationary SUP yoga sessions.

For dog moms who love to SUP with their pup, consider paddleboards with a larger deck pad to enhance your dog’s grip and comfort, as well as to protect the board from their nails.

Women who want to use their paddleboard for distance paddles, camping or day tripping should select a paddleboard with tie-downs for securing snacks, water, outerwear and gear.

Paddleboards that have additional carry handles around the sides, front and back are great for women enjoying quality water time with kids. They can hang onto these carry handles from in the water or use them to help themselves back up on the board after jumping in.

Weight of the paddleboard

Heavier paddleboards can be challenging to carry and lift, especially in windy conditions or in handling more delicate paddleboards. It’s well worth investing a bit more in a board that is lightweight, ideally 25 lbs or less, that you are able to comfortably carry. Consider how far you’ll be carrying your board to the water, and how much weight you can safely manage when lifting the paddleboard on top of your vehicle for transportation.

Width of the paddleboard

While greater width adds stability to a paddleboard, there are two reasons why board width is often an issue for women paddlers.

The first is because in order to paddle straight, the shaft of the paddle must be vertical as the blade enters the water. For shorter women on wider boards, this means reaching their arms uncomfortably far to the side of the board to take an efficient forward stroke. Without this awkward reach, the paddle will enter the water at an angle and the paddleboard will turn rather than travel straight.

Wear The Appropriate Leash When Stand Up Paddleboarding
  • Always wear a leash on open bodies of water like lakes, bays, and oceans. Due to the risk of snags and entrapment, leashes should only be worn on rivers if they include a quick release attached to your life jacket.

The second issue that many women have with wider boards is that they can be difficult to carry. Once again, women who are shorter or have short arms may not be able to easily reach the carry handle in the center of the board. This is often made more tricky when a wide board is also a thick inflatable board.

For these two reasons, it is important to ensure that the width of the board allows for comfortably reaching over the side to put the paddle in the water with a vertical shaft, as well as carrying the paddleboard with relative ease.

Carry handle

The carry handle is an oft-overlooked aspect of the paddleboard that should be noted as a piece of the puzzle that makes up the best women’s paddleboards. Both the location of the carry handle and the style of the handle are important for comfort. “Soapdish”-style handles are recessed within the paddleboard and require you to carry the paddleboard by the tips of your fingers. Grab loop-style carry handles on the deck of the board allow your full hand to wrap around them.

Jodi Bigelow, owner of Ottawa-based Paddlefit, teaches paddleboarding and sells paddleboards to a majority of women clientele. He suggests looking for carry handles that allow the fingers to wrap around and make it easier to carry. “Look for brands that will offset the carry handle off-center,” he adds. “This gives smaller paddlers an option to carry a wider board and not need to have the arm length for a full reach.”

A useful accessory that helps lighten the load of carrying a paddleboard is a shoulder carry strap. Some paddleboards have attachment points along the side where a shoulder carry strap may be fastened to the board.

Visual appeal

You better believe that visual appeal is important for women’s paddleboards. A paddleboard is a big investment and the graphics, design and look of the board go a long way in the enjoyment of your purchase. I bet that if you had a paddleboard with a beautiful design that you love and makes you feel happy, you might even paddle it more often.

If it’s important to you that your board looks super cool or cute, go for it. Enjoy your beautiful board, just make sure that it also performs well. And keep in mind that you can always add aftermarket stickers, graphics and even a colorful new deck pad to spruce up a plain board.

Paddles

It wouldn’t be fair to give you all of the advice on the best women’s standup paddleboards without touching on the best women’s paddles. A quality, correctly sized paddle is every bit as critical to having a positive paddleboarding experience as the board itself.

Don’t invest all of your budget on a paddleboard and then pair it with a big, clunky paddle. Keep a few dollars set aside so that you can upgrade from heavy, entry-level paddles with plastic blades and metal shafts to a lightweight fiberglass or hybrid resin-fiberglass paddle. Your shoulders will thank you.

Adjustable paddles are the best way to go when starting out—they are versatile and can be used by paddlers of different heights by easily adjusting the length. Adjustable paddles also allow you to play around with the paddle length to determine your sweet spot. To determine a rough paddle length, place the tip of the blade on the ground, extend an arm above your head, and adjust the paddle so that the handle hits around your wrist.

Some SUP companies create paddles designed with women in mind, with smaller shafts to suit smaller hand sizes for a more natural and comfortable grip on the paddle. For petite women, a paddle blade size of between 75 and 80 square inches is recommended, while stronger or more aggressive paddlers can use a blade size between 80 and 85 square inches. If a paddle blade is too large, it will be tiring to pull the blade through the water and put a lot of stress on your shoulder.

A note on inflatable paddleboards

For inflatable paddleboards, invest in an electric pump and the appropriate valve adapter, as required. Using a manual hand or foot pump to inflate the board takes about 10 minutes and requires a fair bit of effort and energy. An electric pump will get you on the water faster and easier, and can really improve the paddleboarding experience for all women, but particularly for older women and those with medical conditions which affect strength or energy levels.

Education: Get Some!
  • Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
  • Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
  • Take on-the-water skills training.

 

Everything You Need To Know About Buying A Sun Dolphin Kayak

By
Jake O'Flaherty
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woman prepares a Sun Dolphin kayak to enter the water
Feature photo: Dillon Wanner/Unsplash

Built in the “The Great Lakes State,” Sun Dolphin kayaks are some of the most affordable on the market. Sun Dolphin began making pedal boats on the shores of Lake Michigan in 1982. Today, they’ve expanded their offerings to include bargain-priced recreational and fishing kayaks, paddleboards and other watercraft.

You’ll find both sit-on-top and sit-inside Sun Dolphin kayaks. No matter the style, they are characterized by their durability, user-friendly stability and low cost. Sun Dolphin recreational and fishing kayaks are best suited for short outings in calm conditions, such as small lakes, slow-moving rivers or sheltered coves. The plastic construction is built rugged to handle impacts, and requires very little maintenance. All Sun Dolphin kayaks feature a wide, flat bottom so the paddler feels stable, and sit-inside designs have an open cockpit for easy entry and exit.

For new paddlers, Sun Dolphin kayaks are a great starter boat—you can try kayaking without needing to invest in a high-end boat right out of the gate. Sun Dolphin kayaks fall into the “recreational kayak” category, and within that category they are some of the least expensive on the market.

Stay Clear Of All Other Vessels
  • Know the “Rules of the Road” Navigation Rules that govern all boat traffic and stay out of the way of all other vessels.
  • Never assume that power boaters can see you. Avoid high-traffic areas whenever possible. Proceed with caution when you can’t avoid paddling near boats. Dress for visibility.

They are also widely available; you’ll find Sun Dolphin kayaks at big-box department and outdoor stores across North America, as well as online at Amazon. Consider a Sun Dolphin if you are looking for a simple, stable kayak for casual excursions, without additional features driving the price up.

Sun Dolphin kayak reviews

Sun Dolphin Excursion 10

Sun Dolphin Excursion 10

Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 Specs
Length: 9’5”
Width: 29”
Weight: 41 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
MSRP: $450 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN

From our review:

“The Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 kayak is a versatile boat that works for both kayak angling and recreational paddling. Billed as a fishing kayak, the Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 includes many of the features of the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10, with the addition of two flush mount and one swivel rod holders. This means you get the best of both worlds with this 10-foot Sun Dolphin kayak: it is a sit-inside kayak that’s easy to enter and exit, reasonably swift and responsive on the water, and…” [ Read full review ]

Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS

Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS

Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS Specs
Length: 9’6”
Width: 29.5”
Weight: 44 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
MSRP: $349 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN CAMPING WORLD TRACTOR SUPPLY

From our review:

“The Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS is a recreational fishing kayak, meaning the design prioritizes stability and comfort over speed and high performance. A recreational kayak like the Journey 10 SS was designed with calmer waterways in mind. These can be sheltered lakes, estuaries, or slow-moving streams. Being a generally wide and short kayak, it offers more in the way of stability and maneuverability than speed and efficient travel.

Recreational kayaks often use less expensive materials in production and come in with a lower sticker price. This, combined with the above-mentioned beginner-friendly characteristics, make the Journey 10…” [ Read full review ]

Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS

Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS

Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS Specs
Length: 12’4”
Width: 33.25”
Weight: 78 lbs
Capacity: 500 lbs
MSRP: $550 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN CAMPING WORLD OVERTON’S TRACTOR SUPPLY

From our review:

“The Boss 12 has what Sun Dolphin refers to as a catamaran-style hull, though it could even be considered a tri-hull of pronounced pontoon-like shapes that provide platform-like stability. The Boss 12 also comes with a raised seat; a flat, open cockpit for standing casts; and deep tankwells for loading up plenty of tackle.

These are all features which make the Boss 12 stand out as Sun Dolphin’s most fishing-centric…” [ Read full review ]

Sun Dolphin Aruba 10

Sun Dolphin Aruba 10

Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 Specs
Length: 9’7”
Width: 29”
Weight: 40 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
MSRP: $200–300 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN AMAZON CAMPING WORLD TRACTOR SUPPLY

From our review:

“The paddling performance of the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 kayak is similar to other small rec boats, with modest speed and outstanding maneuverability and stability. Don’t expect to win any races in this 10-foot, pumpkinseed-shaped kayak.

However, that compact size means the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 kayak will turn on a dime; this great turning ability makes the Aruba 10 a great choice for slow-moving river paddling and…” [ Read full review ]

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS Specs
Length: 12’0”
Width: 30.75”
Weight: 48 lbs
Capacity: 395 lbs
MSRP: $499 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN CAMPING WORLD OVERTON’S TRACTOR SUPPLY

From our review:

“The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is a sit-on-top fishing kayak popular with anglers who want to get on the water without the price tag attached to many of today’s more elaborate fishing kayaks. The low cost and ease of use of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 help this beginner-friendly fishing kayak make sport fishing…” [ Read full review ]

Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS

Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS

Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS Specs
Length: 10’0”
Width: 29.5”
Weight: 44 lbs
Capacity: 250 lbs
MSRP: $300–500 USD

Buy from:

SUN DOLPHIN CAMPING WORLD OVERTON’S TRACTOR SUPPLY

From our review:

“The Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS kayak is a great choice for those looking for a kayak to use at the cottage or the beach. It includes a nice array of comfort features and comes at a budget-friendly price. The kayak is meant for use on calm, sheltered water, including inland lakes and quiet rivers. It has an open, sit-on-top cockpit, which makes it easy to climb on board and perfect for paddling in warm climates. The Bali 10 SS has just enough space for you to bring your canine companion along for the ride, just bear in mind the boat’s…” [ Read full review ]

Shopping for a used Sun Dolphin kayak?

Sun Dolphin kayaks are affordable to begin with, and finding them used will really be a score. If you want to save some money, or you are unsure whether kayaking is something you’ll stick with, consider buying used. There are some things to consider when you’re shopping for a used Sun Dolphin kayak.

All Sun Dolphin kayaks are made from high density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is a plastic that is strong and impact-resistant, since it flexes rather than cracking. Even with frequent use, it’s unlikely that the kayak will be damaged to the point that it’s unusable. The exception is if there are cracks or holes right through the hull of the boat.

For a sit-inside kayak, these are pretty obvious to see. On sit-on-top kayaks, pick the kayak up and listen for water sloshing around inside. This is a good indicator that there is a hole in the hull. Repairs may be possible; Sun Dolphin provides a polyethylene repair kit for small holes.

One thing that may damage the kayak is using ratchet-style straps to secure the kayak to a rack. This can happen when loading the kayak on a car or trailer; it’s easy to over-tighten ratchet straps. The plastic may bend under the pressure, which can cause warping or distortion of the kayak hull. Look for damage from ratchet straps along the sides of the kayak, bending and warping will be obvious.

Sun damage may be another potential issue with a used Sun Dolphin. Although the plastic has a UV-resistant coating, it will eventually degrade with continuous exposure. If the kayak was stored in direct sunlight, there’s a good chance the plastic will be weakened by UV damage.

Inspect the hull for speed-sapping warping or excessive fading, checking to see if one side of the kayak is paler than the other. It doesn’t mean that the kayak is unusable, but it may wear out more quickly than a kayak that was stored indoors.

Thoroughly inspect the foot pegs, hatch, seat and any other outfitting. It’s more likely to find wear on these components than the kayak hull itself. Make sure that seat buckles clip, and that adjustable foot pegs (if they are present) slide forward and backwards. Broken or missing parts may not be a deal-breaker; Sun Dolphin’s customer service team can help source replacement parts.

Buying used may also give you the option to try out a Sun Dolphin before you buy it—something that isn’t possible at Walmart or Costco. If the seller agrees, take the boat onto the water and see if you feel stable. Wear the clothes and PFD you intend to paddle in, and make sure it fits comfortably when you are seated in the kayak. Ultimately, trying the kayak before you buy it is the best way to know if it’s a good match for you.

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Paddlesports participation skyrocketed during pandemic lockdowns, and cheap boats like Sun Dolphin kayaks sold out rapidly. As restrictions lift, expect to see more of these kayaks on the market as some people either upgrade or lose interest in kayaking. So what’s a fair price to pay for a used recreational kayak? As a general rule, a kayak in working condition will be at least half its original price, no matter how old it is.

Beware of price-gougers who try to take advantage of product shortages, marking-up used kayaks to higher than their new retail price.

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

Sun Dolphin kayak buying guide

Is a Sun Dolphin the right kayak for you? And if so, which one should you choose?

Recreational kayaks are designed to be stable and easy to use, and that’s what you will get with a Sun Dolphin kayak. These beginner-friendly boats are best suited to short outings on sheltered waters. If you’re comparing Sun Dolphin with other recreational kayak brands, the price is likely a deciding factor. Sun Dolphin kayaks are some of the cheapest on the market. They keep the costs down by producing basic kayaks with simplistic features and outfitting.

Other, more expensive recreational kayaks will boast more refined designs and more comfortable, adjustable seating. Sun Dolphins are stripped down and reliable. If you just want something inexpensive to get out on the water and enjoy nature, Sun Dolphin is an excellent choice.

If that sounds like you, your next decision will be to choose a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak. Both have their merits and drawbacks.

Sit-on-top kayaks

Sit-on-top kayaks have an open deck and seating area that makes them very easy to enter and exit. They are extremely stable, and can accommodate a range of body sizes. The open deck eliminates claustrophobic feelings that new, nervous paddlers sometimes experience. If the kayak capsizes, the paddler slides off. They can then hoist themselves back on or just bring the kayak ashore.

Sun Dolphin has six sit-on-top models in their recreational kayak lineup, including the Bali 6 youth kayak, the Camino 8, Capri 10 and Bali SS in three different sizes. The Bali 13.5 is a tandem sit-on-top, which can be paddled solo or with a partner. Sun Dolphin also offers three sit-on-top options for anglers: 10- and 12-foot versions of the Journey SS, and the pontoon-hulled Boss 12 SS for stand-up fishability.

Sit-inside kayaks

Sit-inside kayaks offer a more secure connection between paddler and kayak, allowing for more control with the lower body. The closed decks also provide better protection from splashes, rain, baking sun or paddle drips, as opposed to the exposure of a sit-on-top. While recreational sit-inside kayaks resemble short, wide sea kayaks, there are some major differences that limit recreational sit-inside kayaks to calm water use only.

Recreational kayaks are exceptionally stable, but in rough conditions they can flip like any other kayak. Without a watertight bulkhead (interior wall separating the cockpit from the rest of the kayak) for flotation, the kayak can sink or become impossible to paddle to shore. If you plan on paddling offshore or in rough conditions, a touring kayak and proper re-entry techniques are essential.

Sun Dolphin makes four sit-inside recreational kayaks: the Aruba 8 SS, 10 and 12 SS, and the Fiji 10 SS. They also offer two sizes of the Excursion sit-inside fishing kayak, a 10- and a 12-foot. When comparing kayaks, consider the width and length. Wider boats are generally more stable, while longer boats are typically faster. As the kayaks get longer, they also increase in price.

The width and length also influence the weight capacity, as well as the overall weight of the boat. Longer/wider boats will have a higher weight capacity, and also weigh more themselves. If you are planning to paddle with a group of friends, look at the lengths of their boats. You will have a hard time keeping up with a bunch of 12-foot kayaks if yours is only eight feet.

Outfitting, or the features included on a kayak, are also different between models. Some Sun Dolphin kayaks have the Portable Accessory Carrier, a removable storage unit that can be towed behind the kayak to bring extra gear along. When deciding between kayaks, length, comfort and price should be your biggest considerations. Use this guide as a start, and remember that online research will only get you so far. The best advice we can offer is to always test paddle before buying any boat.

Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common online questions about Sun Dolphin kayaks.

  • Are Sun Dolphin kayaks any good?

    Sun Dolphin kayaks are great budget recreational kayaks. For paddlers who just want to get out in calm water for short periods, they are more than adequate. Kayakers who want to take overnight trips or venture into more exposed waters will want to look elsewhere. Without bulkheads (interior walls that ensure the kayak won’t sink if swamped), Sun Dolphin kayaks shouldn’t be taken out in rough conditions.

  • Who makes Sun Dolphin kayaks?

    Sun Dolphin kayaks are made by KL Outdoors. KL Outdoors merged with the Canadian company, Hemisphere Design, in 2019.

  • What happened to Sun Dolphin kayaks?

    Sun Dolphin kayaks paused manufacturing briefly in 2019, but after the parent company, KLO, merged with Hemisphere Design, production resumed under the banner KL Outdoors. They are still made in Muskegon, Michigan.

  • Is Future Beach and Sun Dolphin the same?

    Future Beach kayaks were made by GSC Design. They merged with KL Outdoors, manufacturer of Sun Dolphin kayaks, and ceased production under the Future Beach name. Aspects of Future Beach kayak design were incorporated into Sun Dolphin kayaks.

  • Where are Sun Dolphin kayaks made?

    Sun Dolphin kayaks are made in facilities in Muskegon, Michigan.

  • Where to buy Sun Dolphin kayaks

    Find Sun Dolphin kayaks at big-box department stores like Walmart, Home Depot, Tractor Supply Company and Canadian Tire. They are also stocked at outdoor box stores like Cabela’s, Bass Pro, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy Sports. Finally, you can buy Sun Dolphin kayaks online at Amazon.

  • Weight limit on Sun Dolphin kayak

    The weight limit on Sun Dolphin kayaks varies from 140 pounds for a youth kayak to 500 pounds for a tandem or sit-on-top fishing kayak. All kayaks have fairly high weight capacities, with sit-on-tops generally having higher capacities because of their inherent buoyancy.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature
  • Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
  • Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

  • How much does a Sun Dolphin kayak weigh?

    Sun Dolphin kayaks’ weights vary depending on the size and model, ranging from 40 to 80 pounds. All Sun Dolphin kayaks are made with high density polyethylene, which is one of the heavier (and most durable) kayak materials. Compared to composite or thermoformed plastic kayaks, Sun Dolphins may feel very heavy. Compared to other rotomolded plastic kayaks, Sun Dolphins are average.

  • How much is a Sun Dolphin kayak?

    Sun Dolphin makes affordable, budget-friendly kayaks. Prices vary depending on the retailer, but most Sun Dolphin kayaks are sold for $250–$400 USD.

  • Sun Dolphin kayak warranty

    Sun Dolphin kayak hulls are covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Parts like the seat, straps and buckles are under a one-year limited warranty. To qualify for the warranty, Sun Dolphin owners must register their kayak within 30 days of purchase.

  • Sun Dolphin kayak holes in bottom

    If your Sun Dolphin kayak came with holes in the bottom, don’t worry—they are supposed to be there! These are called scupper holes, and they are common on sit-on-top kayaks. These are self-bailing holes, which remove water that ends up on the deck. When you are sitting still, water can splash up from below through the scupper holes.

    It isn’t a safety concern, but it may be uncomfortable if you find yourself sitting in a puddle. To prevent water from coming up through the holes, scupper plugs for your Sun Dolphin kayak can be purchased from the sister company, Extent gear.

  • Sun Dolphin kayak for duck hunting

    The stable platforms and shallow draft of Sun Dolphin sit-on-top fishing kayaks make them appropriate for creeping into a marsh when duck hunting. Kayaks are quieter and smaller than powerboats, meaning you can get into areas most other hunters can’t access. The neutral tones of Sun Dolphin’s fishing kayaks also blend into the natural environment for even greater stealth. Look at the Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS fishing kayak for the ultimate in stand-up stability.

  • Styrofoam Sun Dolphin kayak

    All Sun Dolphin sit-inside kayaks come with some styrofoam behind the seat to act as flotation. While this is better than nothing, some pieces of styrofoam do not replace a bulkhead (rigid wall inside the hull) and the flotation it provides. For this reason, Sun Dolphin kayaks are best used in calm, sheltered waters where a paddler could readily swim a swamped kayak to shore.

  • Most durable Sun Dolphin kayak

    All Sun Dolphin kayaks are made from their durable, proprietary blend of high density polyethylene (HDPE). The most durable Sun Dolphin kayaks are the sit-on-top models. They have less additional parts than the sit-inside kayaks, so there are less pieces to break.

Sun Dolphin comparison

  • Sun Dolphin or Pelican kayak

    Pelican kayaks are a behemoth manufacturer, producing over 100 different kayak models. Like Sun Dolphin, they focus on recreational kayaks of the sit-inside and sit-on-top variety. Pelican kayaks have a much greater range to choose from, with some models at comparably low prices. Other Pelican kayaks are much more expensive, with more refined outfitting for greater comfort, or more features for anglers.

    Many Pelican kayaks are made with twin-sheet thermoforming—a process that results in a much lighter kayak than Sun Dolphin’s rotomolded polyethylene boats. If you are fine spending a bit of extra money for a lighter kayak, go for a Pelican. If you want to keep costs down with a basic boat, choose a Sun Dolphin.

  • Sun Dolphin vs Viper kayak

    Following KL Outdoors’ merger with GSC Design, the Viper brand was absorbed by KL Outdoors. Viper kayaks are no longer made, although some may still be available. The kayaks are extremely similar to Sun Dolphin. If you find a Viper kayak for a discounted price, it may be a cheaper option, but buying a Sun Dolphin over a Viper means you have access to the warranty and replacement parts should you need them.

  • Sun Dolphin vs Perception kayaks

    Perception is another American kayak manufacturer with a wide range of recreational, day touring and fishing kayak models. Their kayaks are entry- to mid-level in terms of pricing and performance. In general, Perception kayaks are more comfortable and perform better than Sun Dolphin—but they’re also more expensive.

    Choose a Perception kayak over a Sun Dolphin if you’re looking to develop your skills with a boat you won’t quickly outgrow. Perception kayaks have more refined designs (leading to greater speed and glide and better handling in wind and waves) and more ergonomic seats and back supports. If budget is the sole motivator in your kayak purchase, Sun Dolphin offers cheaper kayaks.

  • Lifetime kayak vs Sun Dolphin

    Sun Dolphin and Lifetime produce similar discount-priced kayaks for casual paddlers. You will find both in big box stores across North America. Both brands make sit-inside, sit-on-top, fishing and youth kayaks. There is little difference in kayak design from the two brands since both cater to beginners looking for a cheap introduction to paddling on calm, sheltered water.

    Head-to-head, Sun Dolphin’s kayaks weigh an average 5–10 pounds less than Lifetime’s equivalent; while Lifetime kayaks tend to be a little cheaper. Both will be durable and reliable.

Feature photo: Dillon Wanner/Unsplash

 

A Paddler’s Guide To Finding Yourself

By
Rob Lyon
-
woman paddling away from the camera along a rocky, wild shore
Making deposits. | Feature photo: Kaydi Pyette

Long trips, short trips, any trips out on the water are money in the Bank of the Soul. We can catch a sunset paddle, make a full day of it or head off on a weekend outing, sleeping on the beach and enjoying a mini adventure. These short trips are typically experienced with a high level of stimulation. Odds are we’ll pack a cell phone along, not only for emergencies, but to say hi to significant others from the evening campfire.

We live in a high-stimulation culture and our recreation is an expression of that. We are encouraged to get out and do stuff, hit it hard and make it happen. And I’d be the last person to knock the approach. Every sporting passion I’ve ever had was pursued like a flaming comet. But there is another kind of trip—the long trip—and it is a different breed altogether.

woman paddling away from the camera along a rocky, wild shore
Making deposits. | Feature photo: Kaydi Pyette

A paddler’s guide to finding yourself

About a decade ago, three friends and I attempted to start an adventure school based in Washington’s San Juan Islands. One of the tenets reflected in our mission statement was the importance of getting our kids out into the wilderness long enough for them to actually arrive—three weeks minimum. Between the mindset of preparing to depart and the mindset of locking onto home near the end, there is a narrow window of time when a person feels as if he is fully present “out there.”

Like the 30 seconds we’re supposed to wait after hitting the reset button on a modem so things can default to their natural configuration, a long trip into the wild provides a similar defaulting. A chance to unplug, settle in and get into rhythm with the primacy of the natural world.

When it first became obvious to me that I needed a long pilgrimage trip, I planned it out well ahead of time. Then I spent months alone exploring the coast at my own pace, settling down on a beach when I felt like it, or by a river where the salmon were running, or stuck in a pea gravel cove when a southern rolled through. Like Robinson Crusoe, I focused on the necessities of thriving on a remote seashore where the chop-wood, carry-water Zen principle dominated all. I found myself feeling as free and present as I could remember ever having been; the caliber of it was child-like.

Two touring kayakers paddle in pink dawn or dusk light with mountains behind them A Kayaker’s Guide To Saving Your Marriage

On the water, I dropped right into the paddling archetype of the man traveling the coast in a small boat. The repetitive rhythm of dip and pull, the rise and fall of the boat and knifing of the bow soothed my soul. The busy planning, worrying and executing of the mere trip that consumes such a disproportionate share of shorter journeys dropped away. Life became largely experiential, exactly what I needed.

So, how do we pull off a trip like this? By realizing the importance of it, first of all. If we know that for the truth, then we commit to doing it, looking for the first responsible opportunity that comes along. After college, before family, after family, between careers or during a mid-life crisis, to name a few popular windows. Don’t wait for retirement if you can do it beforehand. Make a plan and put it on the calendar. Defend it with your life. Do it, and do it alone.

Cover of Issue 73 of Paddling MagazineThis article was published in Issue 73 of Paddling Magazine. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

Making deposits. | Feature photo: Kaydi Pyette

 

Best Tandem Kayaks For 2026

By
Virginia Marshall
-
Two women paddling a tandem touring kayak.
Seeing double in the Delta Traverse 17.5 T. | Image: Owen Marshall

I’m a big fan of tandems. In my many years working as a kayak guide, these two-person boats have been the most consistent MVPs on the water. They haul our gear while leveling the playing field for paddling pairs, families and groups with diverse abilities.

The best tandem kayaks are fast, stable and make it easier to keep everyone together or increase range. Tandems are certainly practical, but they also have an (unfair) reputation for being troublesome to paddle. Ever heard of the “divorce boat?” Yeah, me too. It’s true that tandem paddling benefits from good communication with your kayak partner. But with a bit of practice, most folks I’ve paddled with love the ease that comes with twice the muscle. Some are surprised to discover that a tandem can even double your fun.

Want to take a snack break or cast a line without losing momentum? Tandem power! Get into position for that perfect paddling photo? Tandem power! Share your kayaking passion with a friend, child or significant other? A tandem kayak checks all the boxes.

On a recent guided trip I led, a retired couple delighted me by bringing their own tandem kayak. “We just prefer paddling together,” they explained, “it’s easier to talk and we have more fun.” Indeed, I often heard them giggling or chatting from across the water. On a few breezy occasions, an umbrella appeared for some impromptu sailing. Ten days and more than 100 miles later, they were still laughing.

If you’ve read this far, then I believe a tandem could be for you. The goal of this article is not only to provide direct options for the best kayaks in the category, but to share helpful insights when considering which kayaks best meet your specific needs and aspirations.

Best Tandem Kayaks: Our Top Picks

Wear A Life Jacket
  • Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
  • Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Best Tandem Kayak Overall

Hurricane Santee 140

Two people paddling a tandem recreational kayak across a small lake.
Image: Hurricane Kayaks
Hurricane Santee 140 Specs
Length: 14’
Width: 31.5”
Weight: 57 lbs
Construction: Thermoformed Trylon ABS plastic
Capacity: 425 lbs
MSRP: $2,349
hurricaneaquasports.com

Buy from:

HURRICANE

Why I love it

For paddling with a partner on calm waters and winding rivers, the Hurricane Santee 140 edges ahead of other recreational tandem kayaks with a sleek, lightweight build, comfortable versatility for one or two paddlers, and stable yet responsive performance. Most important to my mind, the Santee is also among the very few recreational sit-inside tandem kayaks to include a critical safety feature: a watertight hatch with a sealed bulkhead (more on why that matters in a moment).

First, though, can I just say that this is one good-looking boat—especially at such an attractive price. For more than 25 years, North Carolina-manufactured Hurricane Kayaks has been thermoforming sheets of ABS plastic into head-turning kayaks. This acrylic-capped laminate is not only much lighter weight and more UV-, warp- and abrasion-resistant than standard polyethylene kayaks, but its lustrous finish gives it composite-kayak looks and performance at a fraction of the cost.

Off the water, the 57-pound Santee 140 is easy to carry and transport on top of a car. Don’t underestimate the value of a lightweight boat—if it’s easy to use, you’ll use it more. On the water, the stiff lightweight hull offers better glide and speed than its rotomolded counterparts, putting longer tours within reach for paddlers of all abilities. The Santee’s streamlined bow and stern, combined with its moderate V-shape, minimal rocker and soft chines prioritize tracking and stability without the added weight and complexity of a rudder.

Behind the rear seat, a 10-inch hatch provides access to a watertight stern compartment. This means plenty of dry storage for your day-tripping gear. It also gives the boat positive flotation if you capsize, making it possible to self-recover in deep water.

Reasons to buy
  • 25% lighter than comparable rotomolded recreational sit-inside tandems
  • Rear bulkhead for positive buoyancy and flotation, as well as dry storage
  • Open cockpit design for easy entry and exit
  • Front seat slides back to convert from tandem to solo paddling
Consider another if
  • You want a sit-on tandem kayak—look to the Hurricane Skimmer 140 Tandem, currently the lightest tandem sit-on-top on the market
  • You’re looking for a lighter weight sit-inside on a tight budget—the Pelican Argo 136XP Tandem is just 10 pounds heavier and half the price
  • You need a tandem kayak for specialized uses like fishing, open-water touring or whitewater rivers

Bottom Line

Putting lightweight performance and safety within reach of all paddlers, the Hurricane Santee 140 is a top choice for versatile solo or two-person kayaking on gentle waters.

Best Inflatable Tandem Kayak

Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite

Couple in a tandem inflatable kayak on a lake.
Image: Advanced Elements
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite Specs
Length: 14’11”
Width: 32”
Weight: 52 lbs
Construction: Ripstop polyester outer / PVC internal bladder
Capacity: 550 lbs
MSRP: $1,529.99
advancedelements.com

Buy from:

ADVANCED ELEMENTS

Why I love it

Two-person inflatable kayaks provide an accessible gateway to paddling that requires far less experience than a hardshell kayak. But the best-in-class combine the ease of inflatables with the performance of rigid boats. When our editors wrote a full review of the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite, we applauded “its long waterline and chines, which help enhance speed, tracking and edging ability. These features make the AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite efficient and ideally suited for day trips and touring in friendly conditions.”

What makes the Convertible Elite a touring-capable inflatable tandem kayak is its unique hybrid construction. In addition to air bladders, a pair of aluminum ribs are inserted at the bow and stern to provide a stiff, peaked shape like you would find on a fiberglass or plastic kayak. This helps the bow to efficiently cut through the water.

The floor of the kayak uses a drop-stitch construction for similar rigidity to a paddleboard and efficient gliding across the water. The floor on the Convertible Elite also creates a chined hull, meaning you actually get some edge transition—a rarity on an inflatable paddle craft. The foam seats are comfortable enough for a full day out and raise you to a nice high paddling position.

Factor all of this with the boat’s namesake—a convertible deck that can either be an open cockpit or closed up with the option of a zip-on spray deck—and you have a tandem sit-inside inflatable kayak that can be rolled up and stored in the back of your van, and unfurled to make a crossing against a wind-chopped bay.

Reasons to buy
  • Capable touring inflatable with drop-stitched floor
  • Tracks well for its class and even has some edging ability
  • Convertible from open to closed deck, and solo or tandem paddling
Consider another if
  • You prefer fewer components to keep track of
  • You are looking for weight savings on your inflatable
  • You don’t need a drop stitch floor—then consider the lower-cost non-elite Advanced Elements Convertible

Bottom Line

The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite is one of few tandem inflatable kayaks you’ll find enjoyable on a flatwater tour.

Best Performance Touring Tandem Kayak

Delta Kayaks Traverse 17.5T

Two women paddling a tandem touring kayak.
The author in the back seat of the Delta Traverse 17.5 T. | Image: Owen Marshall
Delta Kayaks Traverse 17.5T Specs
Length: 17’6”
Width: 27.25”
Weight: 70 lbs
Construction: Thermoform plastic
Capacity: 560 lbs
MSRP: $2,850
deltakayaks.com

Buy from:

DELTA REI

Why I love it

Where traditional touring tandems offer cargo barge capacity (and maneuverability to match), the compact Delta Kayaks Traverse 17.5T embodies a performance light-touring kayak in a double design.

Delta’s designers finessed more than 191 liters of dry storage and two spacious cockpits into the Traverse’s 17.5-foot length, more typical of solo sea kayaks than touring tandems. As veterans of bicycles and boats built for two know, cockpit proximity is one of the finer points of double design. Too close together, and unsynchronized paddle strokes amount to a jousting match. The 17.5T gets paddler positioning just right.

The shorter waterline also translates to improved responsiveness and lighter hull weight. While hefting a typical touring tandem is a feat of near-Herculean strength, the Traverse tips the scales at a modest 70 pounds—that’s 20- to 50-percent lighter than many competitors. Yet with three sealed storage compartments and large, user-friendly hatches, it’s easy to pack Delta’s tandem for a weekend or week-long adventure. If I were Goldilocks, the Traverse 17.5T hits that sweet spot of “just right” for most of my touring aspirations—not too much and not too little.

For performance alone, the Traverse 17.5T is my top choice for tandem touring. Plus, Delta’s sleek thermoform plastic construction and handy details, such as a shared center day hatch, make it twice as easy to get on board.

Reasons to buy
  • Fast and efficient on-water, with plenty of cargo capacity for longer trips
  • Easy to adjust seat system enables paddlers of different sizes and weights to dial in fit
  • Lightweight thermoform construction is attractive, durable and budget-friendly
Consider another if
  • You need an expedition-size tandem for your upcoming mission around Cape Horn
  • Your touring ambitions are limited to short trips on sheltered inland waters

Bottom Line

For committed paddling partners, the Delta Traverse 17.5T is a fantastic all-around tandem for weekend adventures and multi-day tours.

Paddle Sober And Smart
  • Never mix alcohol and paddling. Coast Guard and state BUI (boating under the influence) laws apply to all vessels. This includes canoes, kayaks, SUPs and rafts.

Best Folding Tandem Kayak

Oru Haven

A pair in a two-person folding kayak on a stream.
Image: Oru Kayak
Oru Haven Specs
Length: 16’1”
Width: 33”
Weight: 41 lbs
Construction: Folding 5mm double-walled polypropylene
Capacity: 500 lbs
MSRP: $1,999
orukayak.com

Buy from:

ORU KAYAKS REI AMAZON

Why I love it

Folding kayaks generally fall into two categories. Those designed for intrepid paddlers intent on reaching the world’s most remote places. And those designed for portable convenience, making paddling accessible to anyone. The latter aren’t just more practical for the vast majority of recreational kayakers, they’re also a great deal more affordable.

Enter Oru Kayaks. When Paddling editor-at-large Tim Shuff hit the water with his young son for a full review of the Oru Haven, he praised the origami-inspired craft’s ease-of-assembly, durable hull, lightweight portability and, above all, versatility. The Haven goes from suitcase to shore in just 15 minutes. The hull has a 10-year UV treatment and is rated for 20,000 folds—theoretically, more than 50 years of daily paddling and folding.

Performance-wise, the Haven is best suited to friendly waters and performs as you’d expect for a wide, open-cockpit recreational design. “Stability is rock solid, its lightweight hull responds quickly to every paddle stroke, and it tracked straight and stayed dry even in a stiff breeze with small whitecaps,” observed Shuff.

Versatility is the Haven’s key advantage, converting quickly from a tandem to a single by merely clipping the seat and footrest to different attachment points. There’s plenty of room for two adults or various combinations of gear, kids and dogs. Shuff says anyone considering a traditional open-cockpit tandem recreational kayak should give the Oru Haven a serious look. For not much more money, the user-friendly Haven is half the weight with the bonus of unprecedented packability and storage.

Reasons to buy
  • The 16-foot-long kayak packs down to the size of luggage
  • Intuitive to set up within 15 minutes
  • Super stable and lightweight
Consider another if
  • Your aspirations with a folding kayak involve open water crossings and remote destinations—in this case, check out the Klepper Aerius 545 Expedition
  • You plan to tackle whitewater where an inflatable would be a better packable choice

Bottom Line

If you’re in search of a unicorn recreational tandem kayak to paddle calm lakes and bays or slow rivers, while being able to store under a bed, the Haven is the folding kayak you need.

Best Tandem Kayak for Whitewater

AIRE Tributary Tomcat Tandem

Joe Potoczak paddles the AIRE Tributary Tomcat Tandem inflatable kayak with partner
Photo: Joe Potoczak
AIRE Tributary Tomcat Tandem Specs
Length: 12’6”
Width: 38.5”
Weight: 44 lbs
Construction: Inflatable PVC
Capacity: 500 lbs
MSRP: $1,260
aire.com

Buy from:

AIRE

Why I love it

When Paddling Magazine digital editor Joe Potoczak reviewed the AIRE Tributary Tomcat Tandem, he described the design as a trusted river-running inflatable with two decades of whitewater use proving the boat’s merit.

Inflatable kayaks shine on rivers, where moving water means flips and swims are par for the course. These boats make the sport more approachable by being wide, stable, buoyant and easier to scramble back aboard, allowing more people to ride through wave trains and drift through pools to take in the scenery. Our editors confirmed the Tomcat Tandem’s torpedo shape and rockered nose plows over rapids, punches through waves and holes and remains stable. It can be paddled as a tandem or solo kayak and the outfitting is simple yet comfortable.

AIRE uses an innertube-like bladder inside the Tomcat Tandem’s outer PVC shell that can be easily replaced. No matter how tough a tube is, when you’re running whitewater, a puncture can happen. AIRE’s unique construction means you can simply unzip any of the Tomcat’s three tubes, remove and repair or replace the vinyl chamber. Voila! The boat is back to work.

AIRE has a collection of respected tandem designs, including the bigger Outfitter II and sleek sporty Lynx II. The Tomcat Tandem isn’t too dissimilar from either of these designs, while being just half the price.

Reasons to buy
  • Value price whitewater tandem inflatable with the reputation of an AIRE design
  • Tough PVC outer construction with replaceable air bladders
  • Rolls up to fit in a hatchback or closet for transport and storage
Consider another if
  • A hardshell plastic kayak better suits the performance you are after—in this case, check out the Jackson Kayak Dynamic Duo
  • You paddle class I–II whitewater and prefer a smaller outer tube diameter for easier paddle strokes and self-rescue

Bottom Line

The Tomcat Tandem’s sturdy PVC build and proven design make it a reliable and affordable choice for aspiring whitewater paddlers.

Best Tandem Fishing Kayak

Hobie Mirage Compass Duo

Father and son pedaling tandem kayak along a coastal cliff face.
Image: Hobie
Hobie Mirage Compass Duo Specs
Length: 13’6”
Width: 35”
Weight: 92 lbs (127 lbs fully rigged)
Construction: Rotomolded polyethylene
Capacity: 475 lbs
MSRP: $3,799
hobie.com

Buy from:

HOBIE REI

Why I love it

The pedal drive may just be the biggest evolution in the history of kayak fishing. Try fishing a tight stream or along overhanging estuaries without a pedal drive and frustration quickly mounts as you fumble with a paddle in one hand and a rod in the other. Sure, paddling tandem means partners can take turns casting and paddling, but that means you’re only fishing half the time.

Thanks to pedal drives, the kayaking part of fishing became nearly hands-free, allowing you to focus on what you really hit the water to do—fight fish. Hobie’s MirageDrive led the way in this evolution and continues to dominate the world of sit-on fishing kayaks.

Our editor at Kayak Angler, Ric Burnley, has reviewed just about every fishing kayak in existence. He test drove the Mirage Compass when it first debuted, proclaiming it fast, responsive and refreshingly lightweight compared to other pedal-drive fishing kayaks. Hobie’s upgraded MirageDrive pedal system puts cruising and trolling speeds of up to 5 mph within reach and the hull cuts through wind, wakes and chop. The manageable hull width means paddling the Compass Duo is still an option, if needed.

The Compass Duo is equipped with Hobie’s MirageDrive 180, delivering a smooth and efficient ride for two in both forward and reverse. The rugged plastic hull is considerably sleeker and lighter than comparable pedal-drive fishing kayaks, maximizing speed and stability while reducing drag. Even better, this pedal-powered fishing tandem is loaded with angler-ready features and—in a market crowded with bass boat-worthy price tags—remarkably budget-friendly.

Reasons to buy
  • Hobie’s proven MirageDrive pedal power
  • Integrated H-Tracks for flexible accessory mounting, fishfinder-ready, loads of above and below deck storage
  • Plenty of flat deck area and stability for standing and casting
Consider another if
  • You want an ultralight tandem pedal-drive fishing kayak that also packs into a bag for travel and storage—in this case, check out the Hobie Mirage iTrek 14 Duo
  • You are looking for a paddle-powered tandem fishing kayak

Bottom Line

The Hobie Mirage Compass Duo offers anglers a well-designed tandem fishing kayak with a proven drive system and an angler-ready platform you can fully customize from the ground up.

Best Pedal Tandem Kayak

Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal T

Couple pedals kayak together in Florida canal.
Image: Old Town
Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal T Specs
Length: 13’6”
Width: 36”
Weight: 154 lbs (fully rigged)
Construction: Rotomolded polyethylene
Capacity: 567 lbs
MSRP: $3,999.99
oldtownwatercraft.com

Buy from:

OLD TOWN ECO FISHING SHOP

Why I love it

First of all, why a pedal kayak? Pedal-drive kayaks offer some unique advantages over more traditional paddle kayaks—like hands-free kayaking, increased range and stability, and the ability to enjoy both leg propulsion and paddle power from the same kayak. Additionally, the increased efficiency of pedal power allows manufacturers to build larger, more stable kayaks—appealing for families, anglers and recreational kayakers who want a boat that doesn’t feel wobbly in the water.

The Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal T from Old Town pairs slick and efficient pedal drives with their flagship recreational kayak hull. The Malibu is a classic sit-on-top kayak: highly stable and easy to use, with an open deck design and comfortable outfitting. The pedal drive works like a fixed-gear bicycle, with the user’s legs turning a prop to move the kayak forward or reverse. A hand-controlled rudder aids with steering, and the comfortable frame seats offer a higher vantage point for fishing.

When our editors reviewed the Ocean Kayak Malibu, they hailed it as an innovator in the realm of recreational kayaking—first for introducing the world to the sit-on-top style of recreational kayak, and then adding an award-winning pedal drive.

Reasons to buy
  • Intuitive forward-and-reverse pedal drive is just like riding a bike
  • Fishing-ready with accessory tracks, rod holders and ample gear storage
  • Deluxe seating for all-day comfort
Consider another if
  • You want a simple, lighter-weight, inexpensive recreational kayak—Ocean Kayak’s Malibu Two paddle kayak may be a better fit
  • You’re looking for a budget pedal-drive tandem kayak

Bottom Line

Built in Maine and backed by a lifetime hull warranty, there’s good reason the Ocean Kayak Malibu is the best-selling OG of recreational sit-on-top kayaks.

Best Modular Tandem Kayak

Point 65 Mojito Tandem

Two people assembling a kayak on a beach.
Image: Point 65
Point 65 Mojito Tandem Specs
Length: 15’9”
Width: 29”
Weight: 86 lbs
Construction: Rotomolded polyethylene
Capacity: 440 lbs
MSRP: $2,489
point65.com

Buy from:

POINT 65

Why I love it

Modular kayaks offer a functional middle ground between packable kayaks and traditional hardshell kayaks. Like inflatable and folding kayaks, the appeal of modular kayaks lies in their easy transport and storage. There are some key differences, however. Folding and inflatable styles are lighter weight, pack down smaller and can be very low cost. But only modular kayaks provide the same performance and feel as rigid plastic or composite designs.

There’s more: modular tandem kayaks like the Point 65 Mojito are actually two boats in one. When the urge strikes, you can leave the second cockpit section at home and enjoy the scaled-down size and responsive paddling of a true solo kayak. Plus, there’s almost zero set-up time at the launch. The Point 65 Mojito snaps together like a set of Legos in just seconds.

Point 65 is a Swedish brand that began pioneering plastic sectional kayaks over 15 years ago. They offer half a dozen sit-on and sit-inside modular kayak models available in North America for recreational users and anglers. The Mojito is a versatile sit-on-top design that’s stable and easy to use solo or tandem. Snap the two end sections together for a compact 10’10” single seater weighing just 57 pounds. Add the middle section to switch to tandem paddling.

What most impresses me about Point 65’s modular kayak is it doesn’t feel like a take-apart kayak. Once I click together the snowboard binding-style ratchet straps—two at each section joint—there’s no hull flex or added drag. The Mojito feels quick, capable and built to last—just like my favourite hardshells.

Reasons to buy
  • Hardshell durability and performance with near-zero assembly time
  • Tri-hull and steerable keel rudder for superb stability and tracking
  • Waterproof hatches and plenty of on-deck storage
Consider another if
  • You want to take longer trips on more exposed waters—the modular Point 65 Mezcal GTX touring tandem is a better choice
  • Cost is no object and premium ultralight touring performance is a must—I recommend Stellar’s ST19 Modular Tandem
  • You’re looking for a budget or backpack-sized portable tandem kayak

Bottom Line

The Point 65 Mojito offers hardshell performance in an easy-to-store sectional kayak that effortlessly switches between tandem and solo use.

Know The Local Hazards
  • Check navigation charts before you launch.
  • Check with those who have local knowledge of man-made and natural hazards, e.g. low-head dams; sweepers, strainers and undercuts; tides and currents; and rocks and shoals.

Tandem kayak buying advice

Tandem kayaking can look very different depending on where and how you paddle, but if you can only own one kayak, buy the boat that you will enjoy on the waters you paddle most of the time. For example, a performance touring tandem probably isn’t the best choice if you mostly enjoy short outings on your local bay, wetland or river. Since tandem kayaks tend to be larger and heavier than similar solo kayaks, you also want a tandem kayak that meets your storage and transport requirements. Also, buy the lightest kayak your budget allows—trust me, you’ll use it more.

If your local waters consist of sheltered bays, quiet rivers and inland lakes, look to a compact recreational tandem kayak or inflatable tandem kayak that is easy to store and transport and encourages you to get out more often. Sit-on tandems and inflatable two-person kayaks are great choices for warmer waters. Many of these models offer flexible seating that allows you to easily convert from tandem to solo paddling. This flexibility also lends itself to paddling with a larger dog or children aboard, and fishing from your kayak. Look to sit-inside recreational kayaks for more protection in colder waters and climates. Many tandems of this style allow you to wear spray decks to keep out splashing waves.

If you dream of exploring wilderness coastlines with your paddling partner, it may be time to invest in a touring tandem equipped with enclosed cockpits, sealed hatches, bulkheads, rudder and perimeter decklines. These important safety features are required for a tandem kayak capable of making those extended journeys.

If you’re deciding whether to buy a tandem kayak or a canoe, where you plan to paddle is once again the most important consideration. Canoes offer excellent capacity for hauling gear, pets and people (it’s easy to sit a third paddler in the center) on sheltered waters. Canoes are also designed to be carried comfortably on the paddler’s shoulders, making them ideal for routes where you’ll need to carry overland, such as between small lakes or around rapids. The higher seats let paddlers switch between sitting and kneeling, but this also puts their center of gravity higher, which can make things feel “tippy.” For more exposed waters where windy and wavy conditions are possible, a tandem kayak will feel more stable and be easier to control.

Budget is another important consideration when shopping for a tandem kayak. Whether you are looking to buy a recreational, inflatable or fishing tandem kayak, choosing a model from a reputable kayak brand will ensure you get a boat that’s good value while still providing great durability, performance, comfort and longevity. Research paddlesports stores in your area and consider buying from a local retailer rather than shopping online or at a big box store. Dedicated paddlesports shops have experienced staff that can help you select the best tandem kayak for your needs.

Best tandem kayak brands

How we tested

To create this list of the best two-person kayaks we took popular boats available today out on our favorite local waterways, as well as gathered the feedback of editors and contributors and their reviews conducted over years of editorial coverage.

Why trust us

As a longtime Paddling Magazine contributor, former Adventure Kayak editor, and wilderness kayak guide and coach for over two decades, I’ve had the pleasure of paddling with a tremendous variety of people and paddle craft. Tandem kayaks have been my choice for both epic endurance challenges and laidback explorations with loved ones, providing me firsthand insights into the versatility and limitations of two-person kayaks.

 

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