If you like paddle sports, then you probably like to leave the beaches and docks to go a little further out to sea, paddle and get closer to other places with your kayak. Whether alone, with a partner, family or friends, kayaking is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining and difficult activities you can find in any aquatic environment.
In addition, its equipment is not excessive, so getting it should not be a problem. A life jacket, whistle, paddles, and, of course, the kayak, are the elements you need to be able to carry out this activity. However, we understand that not everyone has a boat like this, since due to its dimensions, it is necessary to have a fairly large place to store it. For this reason, here we suggest which are the best inflatable kayaks So that storing and transporting your equipment does not become an insurmountable problem!
Before you buy your inflatable kayakThe first thing you should know is that this type of boat is not designed for very long journeys, but this does not mean that you cannot have fun in the same way.
For this reason, we want to tell you what they are The best types of inflatable kayaks, but first, we leave you with a list of the advantages that they have that you should take into account before deciding on a specific canoe model.
Why choose an inflatable kayak instead of a kayak? Rigid
Light and manageable
Among the advantages of inflatable kayak, you could say that it is more manageable so it will be much easier for you to put it in a straight line especially if you are learning, and despite what you might think, this type of kayak does not tip over. It is no coincidence that the inflatable kayak is the most popular, and its ease of transport and even its many features that make it similar to a rigid one, makes its use quite an experience.
Size and portability
If you are looking for a kayak to enjoy during your holidays, but one of your essentials is size, we recommend that you opt for inflatable kayaks. The advantage that this type of kayak provides is that when you deflate them you can store them in your backpack. There are different models on the market that have this feature, as it has become one of the most useful properties that this type of canoe can have, especially if what you like is moving from one place to another.
Your materials
Inflatable kayaks are made of PVC, vinyl and Polyester. These materials make them light, adaptable and easy to fold. In addition, many of them have a double layer of PVC, which provides greater stability and rigidity when sailing.
The weight
The weight of inflatable kayaks is undoubtedly one of their greatest advantages. Being so portable, their weight varies between 8.5 kg, which is the lightest of all, to another whose weight is 18 kg and its use is intended for fishing or activities that require much greater stability.
Stability
It all depends on the moment when we decide to inflate the kayak. The idea is not to leave it too inflated, nor too low on air. It is recommended to inflate it for about 10 minutes with a hand pump, to reach levels of 1.5 PSI. The idea is to achieve an intermediate level that allows you to navigate without having the sensation that the kayak is collapsing or the water is leaking.
In addition, these types of kayaks have been designed with wide, high walls that prevent water from seeping in and compromise stability, which is why it is common to see that the most stable kayaks are also those with a much more robust design.
What are the types of inflatable kayaks that you can find?
Inflatable kayaks for a walk or a cruise
Inflatable touring or leisure kayaks are different from other kayaks, especially in their shape: longer, more pointed and thinner. This type of kayak is much more like a canoe and one of its greatest advantages is that the design is designed so that you can enjoy a ride on calm and quiet waters, if what you like is relaxation and admiring the landscape.
Inflatable whitewater kayaks
With a more rigid and stronger design, the whitewater kayak is wider and shorter. It is also slower in order to have greater stability and control over the canoe in moving waters. The seat used in this type of kayak is the 'sit inside', whose main characteristic is its flexibility and ability to adapt to any position. This type is undoubtedly the most suitable for adventurers who want to play with the force of the water.
Inflatable sea kayaks
Similar to touring kayaks, sea kayaks are also long, thin and pointed, but are specifically made for use in marine waters, as the water type varies considerably between a lake and the sea. However, they are also designed for relaxation rather than adventure.
Inflatable fishing kayaks
With different lengths and sizes, the fishing kayak, as its name suggests, is designed for fishing. This type of boat is used to carry out this activity near the coast with the aim of catching larger fish that are different from those found in rivers. Even so, in order to carry out this activity better, you will need to add different accessories if you opt for this type.
Some frequently asked questions
Is it better to buy a rigid kayak or an inflatable kayak?
It depends on the type of kayak you practice. If you are looking for a kayak for long trips, training or competitions, it is best to opt for the Rigid kayaks. Their materials make them more rigid and durable, but at the same time, more difficult to maneuver. Inflatable kayaks, on the other hand, are for recreational use, where the routes are short, or for those who are just starting out in this sport. They are light and compact.
What is a kayak?
A kayak is a sporting canoe that has central openings for the crew and whose movement is propelled by oars that are not attached to the small boat.
What is the difference between a kayak and a canoe?
While in a kayak the crew sits closer to the water, the upper part is intended for the paddler (the one who rows) and its style is more sporty, the canoe is a more open boat with an uncovered top and several places for all the paddlers.
Both boats also differ in their oars, since canoes use single oars with a single blade, while kayaks use double oars with a blade on each side to make it easier to paddle from both ends.
