10 Best Blow Up (Inflatable) Canoes & Kayaks — AWESOME Review and Rating

Outdoor recreation is not just a pleasant and cheerful journey, it’s exciting! Thanks to modern technology, you have the option of carrying the best inflatable canoes, boats and kayaks with you. Without needing a trailer to tow them. With such portability, you can simply decide to go fishing with the family and then amp it up in the afternoon of river rafting.

We have you covered for all occasions. From simple family outings on the lake, to active sports on the rapids for the high-octane enthusiast. Even for the casual fisherman, we have a selection of small and lightweight, compact and practical canoe boats. All models are made of puncture-resistant, durable and reliable materials.

Furthermore, the unique multi-chamber design allows you to stay afloat, even if one of the air chambers is damaged. Thus, allowing you to easily dock at the nearest shore to fix the puncture.

Based on customer reviews and feedback, we have selected only the best models to choose from. Each purchase includes an efficient hand pump, cushioned seats with high backs, aluminium paddles that can be adjusted easily, a rear fin, and a carrier bag. The presence of a third seat on some models, is a special feature that makes it possible, to have two adults and one child in the boat.

Check out our available models and choose the best small and lightweight inflatable canoe or kayak.

The Best Inflatable Canoe / Boat TOP Rated — Test Winner 2019

Editor’s pick

1-Person Coverless Sit-On-Top Kayak (Pump Up)

Why it’s better?

• Excellent quality

• Durability and reliability.
• Soft comfortable seats.
• Many attachments for slings and accessories.
• Compact and lightweight.

View more features

Comparison Table of Recommended Products

	name	Material	Puncture protection	Number of seats	Additional equipment attachment points
	1. 1-Person Coverless Sit-On-Top Kayak (Pump Up)	Multi-layer PVC 1000 D	+	2	+	check price
	2. Tandem Inflatable Canoe/Kayak	Multi-layer Duratex 600 D polyester	+	2	+	check price
	3. Convertible Inflatable Kayak/Canoe with Handles	3-layer PVC with protective cover	+	2+1 (child)	+	check price
	4. Solo Inflatable (Blow Up) Kayak (for one paddler)	3-layer PVC with protective cover	+	1	+	check price
	5. Poonton Inflatable Fishing Kayak/Boat for 2 Persons	Multi-layer PVC 1100 D	+	2	Rod holders + transom	check price
	6. Portable 2-Persons Inflatable Vinyl Canoe with Seats (Backrest)	30-gauge vinyl	–	2	–	check price
	7. One Person Blow Up Kayak	24-gauge PVC + tarpaulin cover	+	1	Luggage retainer net	check price
	8. 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set + Aluminum Oars, Pump	Vinyl	–	1	Luggage retainer net	check price
	9. 1-Person Inflatable Canoe Boat with Pump	PVC	–	1	Luggage retainer net	check price
	10. Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak with High-Pressure Floor + Paddles&Pump	21-gauge PVC + tarpaulin bottom cover	–	1	Luggage retainer net	check price

1. The Best 1-Person Coverless Sit-On-Top Kayak (Pump Up)

• Durability
  95%
• Features
  95%
• Design
  95%

TThis is a unique, inflatable canoe/kayak with high durability and reliability. It is made of high-strength PVC material that protects against punctures and cuts. Its sides are made of high-strength, multi-layer PVC. This kayak is ultimate in stability and reliability. Small and light weight. The kit includes soft, adjustable, back-supports, removable seats for maximum comfort. The seats are made of modern EVA material, which perfectly cushions and creates a thermal barrier that ensures maximum comfort under all conditions. This product has a hard floor, with a large pressure drop to increase stability and maneuverability. There is also a removable fin on the bottom, for enhanced stability and maneuverability even in rough waters. This kayak is therefore perfect not only for quiet lakes but also for middle-size rivers with rapids of 3 and 4 levels. At the same time, there are several eyelets on the sides, stern and bow for securing deck lines and for additional rigging. This boat can be deflated quickly and easily placed in a compact bag for storage and carrying.

2. The Best Tandem Inflatable Canoe/Kayak

• Durability
  95%
• Features
  90%
• Design
  95%

Tandem Inflatable Canoe/Kayak is a highly durable and reliable boat. It is equipped with robust cast handles for carrying in the inflated state. This product also features integrated rod holders, so it is an excellent choice for fishing (solo and with a partner). The kayak is made of modern polyester multi-layer material. This material is very strong, and it provides protection against punctures and cuts. Thus, increasing service life, thanks to the multilayer technology. The seats are soft and sturdy for comfort. This product is made using a patented unique technology that provides protection against UV light and other adverse effects. Due to its lengthened shape and flat rocker, it achieves excellent glide and maneuverability on the water. Even long distances can be covered with this kayak without much effort. Thanks to these unique features, this kayak is ideal for water trips and recreation, as well as for fishing and travel. This boat comes prepacked in a compact bag for transport and storage.

3. The Best Convertible Inflatable Kayak/Canoe with Handles

• Durability
  95%
• Features
  90%
• Design
  90%

This inflatable kayak is made of a special three-layer material that is very durable and light-weight at the same time. Therefore, it’s resistant to punctures and cuts. The kit includes two removable and adjustable, back-supporting soft seats for comfortable rowing. Aluminium stiffeners forming the bow and stern. As a result, the boat is more maneuverable and water resistant. Packed and folded into a small carrier and storage bag if necessary. The kit includes an efficient manual inflation pump. Maximum load is 550 lbs (249 kg). A removable canopy on top, can turn the kayak into a comfortable boat for pleasant sailing.

4. The Best Solo Inflatable (Blow Up) Kayak (for one paddler)

• Durability
  95%
• Features
  90%
• Design
  90%

Solo Inflatable (Blow Up) Kayak (for one paddler) is ideal for gliding along the lake, river rafting and other types of water activities. This model has certain features that distinguish it from the mass of competitors. It can be folded quickly and easily into a small bag, that is comfortable to carry and takes little space while it is stored. The kayak is also very easy to unfold and ready to use. The kit contains an efficient manual pump that can inflate all the air chambers quickly. Built with integrated ribs that form the stern and bow. This improves the control of the boat and keeps it on the water. The ribs are made of aluminium that is lightweight and durable and corrosion resistant. This model is made of three-layer, durable material that provides protection against punctures and cuts. An adjustable supporting soft seat with back support, is provided for increased comfort. The kayak consists of several air chambers so that the boat stays on the float, even if it becomes cut or punctured in another section.

5. The Best Poonton Inflatable Fishing Kayak/Boat for 2 Persons

• Durability
  95%
• Features
  95%
• Design
  80%

This product is a fishing kayak. Consisting of two pontoons and it looks like a boat. This kayak has a motor mounting transom. Pontoons are made of high-strength multilayer PVC 1100 D. This material is significantly superior to the technical performance of the weaker PVC. Multi-layer PVC is characterized by high strength and resistance to tears, cuts, and punctures. In addition, this material has polyester support that makes it resistant to stretching and holds its shape well. The material joints have strong welds that can withstand heavy loads. Such welds, like the material itself, can withstand not only fresh but also saltwater environments. Thus, giving you the option of being used in seas and oceans. The joints of this boat have a fourfold overlap and thus resistant to decay, UV light and high humidity. This product has an inflatable floor that withstands high pressure, which creates enough rigidity for comfortable boarding and stays in the boat. The kayak is packed in a compact bag for carrying and storage. The kit includes two marine plywood benches, the boat itself, a repair kit, two aluminium paddles, an efficient hand pump, and a carrier bag.

6. The Best Portable 2-Persons Inflatable Vinyl Canoe with Seats (Backrest)

• Durability
  90%
• Features
  85%
• Design
  85%

Portable 2-Persons Inflatable Vinyl Canoe with Seats (Backrest) is an inflatable kayak that is made from durable 30-gauge vinyl. This guarantee provides maintaining high strength and reliability. You can deflate the kayak easily and roll it in a small bag for carrying and storage. This model is for two people. This model is equipped for comfortable rowing with two inflatable seats with backrest. The kit also has a powerful manual pump and two paddles. This product is intended for lakes and temperate rivers swimming. The kayak comprises of several air compartments. Plus, two pontoons forms the sides and an inflatable bottom. Thanks to this design, even if there is a puncture or cut, you can remain afloat long enough to sail to the coast. This product is a great choice for joint water activities.

7. The Best One Person Blow Up Kayak

• Durability
  90%
• Features
  90%
• Design
  85%

This is a solo skating inflatable kayak. It features unique aspects that make it stand out from the crowd. This model is easily and quickly assembled into a small, easy-to-carry backpack. The backpack itself can be shaped in a unique manner that not only carries the kayak, but it also serves as a seat for comfortable back-supported sailing. The kayak itself is made of durable 24-gauge PVC material. The bottom is reinforced with a tarpaulin that offers reliable protection against punctures and cuts. This boat is intended for use only in freshwater lakes and calm rivers. The design consists of several air chambers. So that even if there is a cut or puncture, the kayak still stays afloat and allows you to get to shore for repairs. There are also points in the structure to attach extra equipment or fishing gear. This kayak is an excellent choice for solo sailing, fishing and water activities.

8. The Best 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set + Aluminum Oars, Pump

• Durability
  85%
• Features
  85%
• Design
  90%

This model is lightweight, yet extremely durable kayak. Boasting reinforced long-lasting welds. Moreover, there are several air chambers in the kayak. Thanks to this, even with a puncture and a cut, the boat is still remains afloat so that you can get to the shore. The inflatable kayak is designed for calm lakes and temperate rivers. The set includes an inflatable seat with a backrest to enhance comfort. There is also a cargo net on the bow, under which additional loads and equipment can be placed. At the bottom of the boat, there is a small keel, which makes it more stable and maneuverable. The kayak is for one user. It comprises an efficient hand pump, a paddle, a kayak itself and an inflatable seat, as well as a carrier bag. This product folds into a small bag for carrying and storage. And if necessary, it can be prepared for operation in just 5 minutes.

9. The Best 1-Person Inflatable Canoe Boat with Pump

• Durability
  90%
• Features
  85%
• Design
  90%

Single-Person Inflatable Canoe Boat with Pump, is a single-seater inflatable boat for calm rivers and lakes. This design makes it optimum for fishing, tripping and water activities. It consists of several separate air chambers which are isolated from each other. This means that even if one of the chambers is damaged, the boat will still stay afloat and allow you to get to the shore for repairs. This model weighs only 18 lb And for carrying and storage, the kayak is rolled in a small bag. The boat is made of advanced durable PVC material. Maximum cargo carrying weight is 176 lb The kit includes a lightweight and efficient inflation hand pump made of aluminum alloy. The bottom has a fin holder, which gives the kayak better stability and maneuverability. Through these features and its unique design, it glides perfectly on water so that you can cruise at a fairly high speed. For higher comfort, an inflatable backrest is included.

10. The Best Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak with High-Pressure Floor + Paddles&Pump

• Durability
  75%
• Features
  70%
• Design
  95%

This is a single-seat inflatable kayak/canoe, which has its own unique features. It is made of robust PVC material for ultimate durability and is suitable for fresh water only. The inflatable structure has several separate compartments so that the kayak is still afloat even if one part is damaged. In addition, this product has a reinforced tarpaulin bottom that protects against cuts and punctures in shallow water. It is very important to note, that this model is easy to setup and get into the water within 5 minutes. The kit includes a manual inflation pump that is highly efficient. For convenient carrying and storage, the kayak is packaged in a small backpack, which can also be used as a kayak seat. It is comfortable. A practical and trustworthy kayak for one person.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Material

When selecting a blow-up boat, kayak or canoe, its material must be considered first. This determines its durability, reliability, longevity, load capacity, puncture and cut resistance and much more. It is better to select more expensive but durable models, made of multi-layer material with puncture protection. Especially, in turbulent rivers with rapids and shallow lakes and streams. These models have a further bottom protective layer in addition to the damage-resistant multi-layer PVC. Inflatable kayaks are produced in various types of materials today:

• multi-layer PVC;
• polyester;
• contemporary Duratex material.

The bottom of certain models is reinforced with tarpaulin. It is also important to understand that the strength and thickness of these materials vary. We’ve chosen several different options for you. From 600D to 1100D. Therefore, you can choose the desired strength and protection level. It should also be understood that the stronger and thicker the material, the heavier the weight of the kayak. The strength required must be considered, when choosing the optimum weight to strength ratio.

Design

Certain models of inflatable kayaks, still have several rigid components, stiffeners, hard floors, etc. These additional features increase the boat’s strength and stability. Thus creating an optimal shape for comfortable rowing and gliding on water. We have chosen several different models of inflatable kayaks from which you can choose from. Including, lightweight models with no rigid elements and versions, with stiffeners and fins on the bottom for enhanced stability and maneuverability. Enjoy looking through our models and make the choice that is right for you. All models have good qualities and can function for as long as possible.

Boarding

Traditionally, the kayak has a special seat inside. That is the user gets inside the boat. In our day, however, several models are far from common. We have selected different models for you that allow you to select the most convenient boarding option. This website offers models with the top seats, where you will be placed on top of the deck; and traditional deep-seated options for more aggressive rowing are available too. Furthermore, there is a change in seats: with or without backrest. The website has various models of seats:

• a soft EVA backrest seat creating a thermal barrier for you to sail under any conditions;
• inflatable seats with backs;
• kayaks without seats, but with an inflatable back;
• marine plywood bench.

Choose the right type of boarding and seat, depending on the task. After all, it’s your comfort. Get familiar with the options and choose the most convenient model for your needs. Don’t forget to find information about how to row it right and safety, especially in you are a beginner.

Puncture Protection

Most modern kayaks are made of modern, durable, multi-layered materials to prevent punching and cutting. However, it is important to realize that this is not 100% puncture proof, but merely a reduced likelihood of cuts. You should nevertheless choose a kayak that meets your needs. There is no need for additional protection when fishing or tripping on a calm deep lake, as the risk of cuts or percussion in such places is minimum. If you use the kayak on rivers with shallow banks and lower rapids (up to 4th deep), then models with better protection should be chosen. But even here it is important to choose the right protection level, because the thicker and stronger the material, the heavier the kayak is. So, it is important to find the best kayak in terms of weight and strength.

Number of Seats

Kayaks are traditionally single seat. Additionally, there are tandem models available for two people. Modern materials allow for the creation of lightweight, but medium to heavy loaded boats. We’ve picked up several models of kayaks for you, from single-seat versions to options for a small family of three. This type of boat is designed to give a separate seat for each user. And for a three-seat model, two seats with a backrest for adults and one inflatable cushion for a child are provided. Consider the proposed options and choose the most appropriate model, with the right number of seats and payloads.

Additional Equipment Attachment Points

Today, kayaks are often used in fishing. For every fisherman, it is important to have enough space for your equipment and baggage. In addition, you can find kayaks fitted with rod holders and several other eyelets for the attachment of safety slings (for active sports and recreation) and extra rigging among other models presented on the website. This website also displays a model with a motor mount transom. It’s the best fishing choice. Feel free to browse these options and choose the one that is right for you.

Choosing Between an Inflatable Kayak and a Rigid Hull Kayak

The sport of kayaking has been popular for many years. This popularity has continued to increase as more styles of kayaks have been introduced to the population. Kayaks are useful for many different activities. These activities include white water rafting, fishing, camping in remote areas and more. Deciding which activities to do with a kayak is the easy part. The hard part is deciding what type, or style, of kayak to purchase.

There are two main types of kayaks to choose from. These types are the inflatable kayak and the rigid hull kayak. Each of these types of kayaks have different styles, so it is important to know what type you are looking for first. Each type of kayak has it’s advantages and disadvantages.

The biggest difference in these types of kayaks is that, obviously, one type is inflatable while the other is not. An inflatable kayak will be lighter than a rigid hull kayak. This means that it will be easier to load, unload, and maneuver to the water. It will also require less room in, or on, your vehicle while transporting.

Both types of kayaks, inflatable and rigid hulled, come in a variety of styles. These styles can transport one, two, or even three people at a time on the water. The price range for these different styles of kayaks are also very similar to each other.

There are some downsides to purchasing an inflatable kayak, however the advantages often outweigh the downsides. When determining which style to purchase you should consider the type of vehicle you intend to transport it with. This is probably the biggest factor since the prices tend to be comparable and they can be used for the same purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How strong is the material and puncture protection?

A: Reliability and protection level depends on material thickness. The thicker the PVC, the more durable it is. It should be noted, that it is still an inflatable kayak and even the thickest PVC can be cut. For example, by sharp stones on the shore, and that the likelihood of cutting even the thickest PVC 1100D is high when heavily loaded.

Q: Can I keep a kayak inflated for a few months?

A: Yes, you can. But before use, the kayak will still need to be pumped up a bit as the air pressure drops slightly over time. Even the strongest material lets in air molecules. Kayak, of course, will stay on the water, but it has to be well inflated for effective rowing stability.

Where to Buy Cheap Inflatable Canoe or Kayak

Take a look at this TOP products reviewed — Test Winner 2019 and then press the «Check Price» button to check product’s availability and price.