Kayaking has been a part of the human story for thousands of years. And if youre looking to jump into the sport, the options can seem overwhelming. Luckily, weve taken the plunge and dipped our paddles in the best the market has to offer, testing more than 20 kayaks for three years now with an eye toward beginner-friendly models.

　　There are many different types and styles of kayaks, each designed for a specific purpose and to best suit a specific kind of paddler. Some categories beginners should be aware of include sit-in kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, inflatable kayaks, tandem kayaks, and folding kayaks.

　　Because there are several categories, weve chosen the best kayaks in each category to help find the best kayak for you. Be sure to read our buyers guide and our comparison chart to better inform your decision. Otherwise, scroll through to view our picks for the best beginner kayak.

　　Editors Note: We updated our Beginner Kayak guide on April 4, 2024 to add our new favorite beginner kayak, the Old Town Malibu 9.5. This sit-on-top boat is easy to carry and even easier to paddle, making it ideal for folks new to paddling.

　　The Best Beginner Kayaks of 2024 Best Overall Beginner Kayak: Old Town Malibu 9.5 Best Budget Kayak: Intex Challenger K1 Best Tandem Kayak: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Best Pedal Kayak: Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R Best Inflatable Kayak: Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak Best Folding Kayak: Oru Kayak Inlet Best Kayak for Kids: Perception Hi Five Best Overall Beginner Kayak Old Town Malibu 9.5 Specs Weight 54 lbs. Length 95 Width 33 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Polyethylene plastic Storage Center accessory hatch, front and rear storage wells

　　

　　

　　Pros Wide, open-top design is easy and enter and exit Very stable design Handles on bow and stern, as well as molded into the sides Center hatch sized perfect for phone and keys Scupper hole design drains easily Cons Design favors stability over tracking Simple seat isnt the most comfortable Austin Beck-Doss Sit-on-top kayaks are simply the easiest entry point for those looking to get into kayaking, and few can challenge the Old Town Malibu 9.5 ($700) for the title of Best Overall. This craft is approachable, stable, and the consensus winner among our paddling testers for being the boat thats easiest to just jump in and go.

　　There are a number of reasons to go with a sit-on-top for your first kayak, but one of the biggest is stability. Kayaks like the Malibu are wider than their sit-inside brethren, which both increases their buoyancy and means theyre harder to tip. First-time paddlers will appreciate the stable float and ease of re-entry should you choose (willingly or not) to take a swim. The open-top design also makes this kayak amenable to quick beaching without the need to extract yourself from a cockpit.

　　At 9.5 long, the Malibu is a quick little thing, and is easy to spin in circles and maneuver in and out of tight harbors. Some on our team found the tracking to be a bit less than they would desire, and for that, the 11.5 version or even tandem Malibu Two would be the cure. But for most everything casual, this boat handled it with ease — and even carried kit for day trips in the front and rear storage wells.

　　Splashing the Malibu is easy, too, with an extra set of handles molded into the sides of the craft that makes carrying easy. And while the simple seat wasnt our favorite (its a bit thin for all-day comfort), it does pivot out of the way for transport and is just as easily set back up for paddling. We also appreciated the sealed hatch right in front of the seat, which is sized perfectly for tossing your phone and some on-water snacks into.

　　As a sit-on-top kayak, keep in mind that water taken over the bow has a way of finding its way into your lap, but thankfully, the molded-in scupper holes make quick work of draining. With a low barrier of entry, easy paddling, and confidence-inspiring stability, the Old Town Malibu 9.5 is our pick for anyone serious about dipping a paddle and getting some quality time out on the water.

　　Check Price at BackcountryCheck price at Old Town Best Budget Kayak Intex Challenger K1 Specs Weight 28 lbs., 4.4 oz. Length 9 Width 30 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Vinyl Storage Front cargo net

　　

　　Pros Affordable Packs down into an included duffel bag Comes with a paddle and pump Tracks and steers well Removable and adjustable seat Cons No drain plug Not the most durable Included pump inflates slowly Austin Beck-Doss The Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak ($135) is our pick for the best budget kayak available in 2024. With a normal price tag under $150, this boat is far cheaper than other options on this list. For the money, its an excellent value that is more than capable of providing many hours of on-the-water fun.

　　While some kayak-loyal may turn up their noses at inflatables, they are an excellent way to dip your toe into kayaking and see if its what youre after. And for a cheap kayak, the Challenger actually handles halfway decently on the water. In general, the entire boat rides low, which makes it quite stable and less vulnerable to being pushed around by the wind. A long rudder also helps the K1 track in a straight line. At 9 feet long and 2.5 feet wide, the K1 has a short, stubby profile that turns and steers decently well.

　　The seat is adequately comfortable, and we like that it is both removable and adjustable — something not often seen on an inflatable. On the boat’s upper deck, a cargo net provides a small amount of gear storage. There is not enough space for camping gear, but the net can easily handle a water bottle, a small tackle box, and some snacks.

　　Two separate air chambers are quick to inflate and are accessed with a couple of familiar Boston valves. The official number is 1 psi, but generally, a good, firm inflation will get this boat through the day — keeping in mind that youll likely want to temper the kayak by leaving it in the water a few minutes before paddling. An inflatable footrest rounds out the construction, which provides a bit of structure to brace against while paddling.

　　The K1 comes with an 84-inch aluminum paddle (pretty standard fare), a repair patch, a carrying duffel, and an inflation pump. Obviously, a few niceties had to be cut, and a drain plug is one of the more sorely missed features that was left on the cutting room floor. To clear your bilge, youll need to land and dump out the water. Not the end of the world, and to be expected on an entry-level craft such as this.

　　All things considered, the Intex K1 Challenger is a good purchase for paddlers in need of an affordable vessel and who are more concerned about fun than performance. We see this as the ideal back-up lake cabin kayak — a craft that can be used, abused, and put away wet, and when it finally gives up the ghost, you arent out much.

　　$91 at Amazon Best Tandem Kayak Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Specs Weight 52 lbs. Length 15 Width 32 Number of Paddlers 1 or 2-person Material Polyester and PVC tarpaulin Storage Bow and stern wells, bungee cord on bow

　　

　　Pros Durable Capacity of 550 lbs. Can be used as a single boat or a tandem Tracks well Handles speed with ease Ample storage space Cons Heavy More expensive than other options Setup is difficult, especially with just one person Austin Beck-Doss The Advanced Elements Convertible Tandem Kayak ($980) is a high-performance inflatable kayak that can be paddled by either one or two people. Although a bit on the more expensive side for an inflatable kayak, the Advanced Elements is comfortable, durable, and absolutely impressed us with what a high-end inflatable can do.

　　That out-sized performance is all thanks to the aluminum ribs in the bow and stern, as well as the multiple air chambers, which work in tandem to really stiffen this kayak and make it perform like much techier and pricier kayaks weve paddled. These ribs create a much more defined keel at the fore and aft of the boat, and in addition to the removable tracking fin, make for a remarkably nimble craft. And, due to this amenable inflatable construction, this kayak can be set up to be manned by a single paddler, or in tandem.

　　The adjustable seats can be set up in three different manners, and in tandem mode, this kayak has ample space for both paddlers to move freely without getting in each other’s way. High seatbacks offer sufficient back support and remain comfortable throughout a full day on the water. And at a 550-pound capacity, this kayak is plenty to accommodate two paddlers plus additional gear.

　　Tiedown points, bungees, and integrated pockets offer adequate storage for quite a lot of gear. This kayak could feasibly be used for overnight expeditions — especially when configured for a single paddler. At 15 feet long, the relatively narrow 32-inch hull provides excellent tracking without giving up too much stability. Multiple tracking fins and a small skeg contribute to a smooth, straight, and speedy ride.

　　Inflating and setting up the AE Convertible tandem takes some getting used to. A thorough set of instructions is included, but you will still need to practice a few times before setting it up feels efficient. Six air chambers can be pumped up, although only three of these are important for structural integrity. Be sure to be careful when inflating because it can be easy to over or underfill.

　　Overall, the Advanced Elements Convertible Tandem Kayak is a hefty inflatable tandem that in many ways feels more like a solid plastic boat than an inflatable one. Its bulk may be a downside for some users — it’s difficult to pack into its duffel and carry on your own. However, on the performance side, this kayak shines and offers tracking and speed that most other inflatable tandems cannot. It’s not cheap, but because its built to last, its our pick for the best tandem kayak of 2024.

　　$980 at REI$832 at Amazon Best Pedal Kayak Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R Specs Weight 65 lbs. (fitted hull weight); 75 lbs. (fully rigged weight) Length 105 Width 34 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Polyethylene plastic Storage 8 hatch and bow/stern wells with bungee cord

　　

　　Pros Very comfortable seat Waterproof gear storage with hatch Rod mounts and accessories to personalize your kayak Kick-up/retractable fins Good price High-tech rotomolded construction Cons Lots of individual components Heavier than most other kayaks on this list Austin Beck-Doss Hobie has been making kayaks for over 20 years. The Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R ($1,799) is one of its newer ones, released in 2022. We loved the previous version of this kayak, and the updated model maintains the tried-and-true design while adding a new rotomolded hull construction.

　　Pedal kayaks have lots of pros. Generally, they are equipped with a few more accessory features and have more room for gear storage. And, of course, they allow you to paddle hands-free. Fishing, bird-watching, photography, you name it — there are lots of great applications here. The Mirage Passport 10.5 is powered by the MirageDrive pedal system, which is one of the most refined weve tested. This leg-powered dynamo drops into the recessed well simply and allows you to motor around easily. The fins even kick up should you run aground — how cool is that?

　　When pedaling, youll need some way to steer, and this kayak has a stowable rudder with steering control located by your left hand next to the seat. The Hobie is a bit wider than standard kayaks to accommodate the seat and steering control, although it only measures 34 inches across. The benefit of this additional width is impressive stability, which makes the prospect of standing and casting feasible.

　　You may have noticed the aluminum frame seat. Pro: Its way more comfortable than standard kayak seats. Con: It adds some weight. If you are doing overnight paddles, or even day touring for hours on end, a comfortable seat is worth it. Even with the extra weight of this kayak, its balanced well and feels really streamlined moving through the water.

　　Other features on this kayak include an 8-inch twist-and-seal hatch for storing gear, as well as two cargo storage areas with bungee straps on the bow and stern. If you are using this kayak for fishing or touring, storage is important. Theres plenty of space on this boat to store rods, a tackle kit, dry bags, a small cooler, camera equipment, or anything else you may want to bring along.

　　Pedal/fishing kayaks can run up to $5,000, but for a fraction of the price, the Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R is a slice of the good life.

　　$1,799 at REI Best Inflatable Kayak Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak Specs Weight 24 lbs. Length 103 Width 34 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material 1000D reinforced PVC Storage Bow and stern wells + bungee cord deck systems

　　

　　Pros Lightweight High-quality 1,000D outer material Good tracking with 9 and 5 fins attached Easy to set up and pack down Cons Not a lot of cargo space Lower rails Austin Beck-Doss Building on the successes of the previous Moki kayaks, the Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak ($899) stays true to the course and tacks on a few new features to improve tracking, increase durability, and add rigidity across the entire boat. When it comes to a compact and portable kayak for recreational paddling, the Platte is one we look to every time. 

　　Lets start with the updates. The new Platte is now made entirely from the 1,000 denier PVC that made its predecessor so tough, and the build is a tough one — even the barnacles of Washington’s Pacific coast couldn’t make a dent when Senior Editor Nick Belcaster took it for a spin. “Inflatable anything always feels like you need to wear the kid gloves to use it, but the Platte is surprisingly tough. I had no problem beaching this kayak up and down the San Juan islands.”

　　Since the Platte lacks a hard chine hull, the addition of two removable fins aids in tracking and keeps the kayak on a straight course — an upgrade from the single fin previously. When we paddled the boat with and without them, the difference was very noticeable. 

　　The inflatable drop-stitch floor is what really stiffens up this kayak, and is the same construction as inflatable SUPs, with thousands of strands of polyester connecting the two outer surfaces to produce a rigid and flat inflated surface. The pontoons of the Platte are separately inflated (to form three chambers) and are pressurized to 2 PSI, which is higher than previous models and it certainly shows in the rigidity of the craft.

　　One thing the Platte is unfortunately lacking in, however, is dry storage space. Relatively low gunwales mean that larger waves produce a good amount of splash, and the open bow and stern stowage areas are liable to take the brunt of it. For that reason, some good dry bags are in order. Otherwise, there are two bungee cargo sections that make for good day bag access, and we often kept essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks on them.

　　For folks who need a packable option, or who are just plain tired of lofting a full kayak onto the top of their rig, the Kokopelli Platte Kayak makes a strong case. Some may desire a craft with a bit more rigidity and higher gunwales, for which the foldable Oru Inlet is a likely option, but for most all lake and bay paddling, the Platte makes it happen, captain.

　　check price at kokopelli Best Folding Kayak Oru Kayak Inlet Specs Weight 20 lbs. Length 98 Width 31 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Corrugated polypropylene Storage Open bow and stern areas

　　

　　Pros Super light Easy to set up and fold down When folded up, the kayak can be carried with a simple shoulder strap Padded seat Open cockpit is simple to enter and exit Beginner-friendly Cons Maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs. Expensive Does not track especially well Austin Beck-Doss For those living in tight quarters, folding kayaks offer all of the benefits of owning your own watercraft without the need for a large storage space. Whether you live in a van or a studio apartment, the Oru Kayak Inlet ($899) is a brilliant tool that can go with you anywhere.

　　Compared to the often-convoluted process of inflating a kayak or assembling a kayak cart, the Inlet’s origami-like folding assembly is as simple as snapping a few clips and slipping into the cockpit. Oru claims that the Inlet can be set up in 3-5 minutes, a bold statement that has been verified by our own testing. When it’s all folded up, the Oru Inlet can be slung over a single shoulder for effortless carrying. After all, it weighs only 20 pounds.

　　While the folds in the kayak do create weaknesses in the 5 mm double-layered polypropylene exterior, the Inlet has been manufacturer-rated for 20,000 fold cycles. The hull’s 30-inch width provides enough stability for beginner paddlers to feel comfortable, and also makes it ideal for fishing. At $899, the Inlet is cheaper than other offerings from Oru, although its still expensive compared to many kayaks on this list. The ideal user is someone who enjoys mellow on-the-water excursions and really wants to prioritize easy storage and compact gear.

　　The cockpit is large enough to store a small dry bag or a bit of fishing gear. However, there probably isn’t enough room for overnight gear, and there is no waterproof cargo area. Youll also need to give up a more comfortable seat and footbraces to hit the impressive compact size, but for plunking around in the mellow water the Inlet was made for, we rarely wanted for more.

　　Because they are the same price, many looking for a more portable and packable kayak will also look at the inflatable Kokopelli Platte, and a few distinguishing factors will decide which one you ultimately end up in. With its open-top build, we found that the Platte paddled more like a sit-on kayak, while the Inlet had more of an enclosed feel.

　　These profiles also affect the paddling ability, which felt slower and more stable in the Platte, but more nimble and quick in the Inlet. The weight and packed size race goes to the Inlet with a slight edge, but the seat and interior of the Platte were more enjoyable to paddle in. So: chill paddling and relaxing on tap? Snag the Platte. But if hyper-packability and performance are your thing? Go Inlet.

　　Although this is certainly a niche kayak, it easily earns its place on this list of best beginner kayaks. It’s simple to set up, simple to paddle, and efficient enough for regular use. With the Oru Kayak Inlet, limited gear storage space will no longer keep you from getting out to paddle.

　　Read Review: The Most Packable Kayak: Meet the Oru Inlet

　　$899 at REI$899 at Amazon Best Kayak for Kids Perception Hi Five Specs Weight 21 lbs. Length 6 Width 24 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Polyethylene Storage N/A

　　

　　Pros Good value Entire watercraft is one durable piece of molded plastic Progression-focused Lightweight and easy to transport Cons Not the most comfortable seat Austin Beck-Doss Part stand-up paddleboard and part kayak, the Perception Hi Five Kayak ($299) is all about fun on the water, which makes it our pick for the best kayak for kids.

　　The Hi Five is sized perfectly to suit kids up to 120 pounds. At just 6 feet long and 2 feet wide, this small kayak fits easily into most hatchbacks and roof racks. Its unique design integrates the seat and other features into one continuous piece of polyethylene plastic that weighs just 24 pounds. Because the entire boat is one solid piece, there are very few ways a user can break or damage the Hi Five.

　　On the Hi Five’s stern, a flat swim-up deck allows for swimmers to easily climb aboard. Other clever features include a paddle rest, a large standing surface, and ergonomic grab handles. All of these features come in handy during blissful hours of family time on the water.

　　Additionally, the Hi Five is specifically designed to keep working as kids grow, making it a good long-term investment that can stay with you for many years. The multiple foot braces accommodate many kiddos, though they are molded-in, so there isnt any adjustability here.

　　For maximum safety, the kayak is super stable. It comes with a hitch-and-tether system so mom or dad can tow the boat when the smallest paddler in the family gets tired. For $300 with a kid-size paddle included, the Perception Hi Five can offer many years of joy and paddling progression. From rivers to creeks to small backyard ponds, this is a standout kids’ kayak.

　　$299 at Amazon Best of the Rest Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Specs Weight 55 lbs. Length 106 Width 32 Number of Paddlers 1-person Material Polyethylene plastic Storage Front covered hatch, rear storage well

　　

　　Pros Comfortable seat Easy to climb in and out of, even while out on the water Makes smooth turns, impressively maneuverable Useful for lots of activities Packed with thoughtful features Cons Glides slowly More expensive than other options Austin Beck-Doss The Tarpon 105 Kayak from Wilderness Systems ($1,119) has been around the lake once or twice, and has a time-worn groove in the kayak scene. As a recreational kayak, the Tarpon offers impressive versatility and can perform well when used for various activities, and it stands out for its comfort and ease of entry and exit. For anyone looking to get into paddling, its hard to go wrong here.

　　Built on the previous success of the initial Tarpon models, the newer design retains all of the flatwater ease of paddling — but can still be taken out into the salt for some rod bending. The open-top design is easy for beginners to jump in and out of and makes for simple seat and foot brace adjustment. The higher pilot height also aids in visibility while paddling, and is countered out by the broad stern of the kayak, which made this one of the most stable kayaks in our testing.

　　For fishing purposes, the Tarpon 105 is compatible with fishing pole holders, GPS units, and fishfinder screens. Relative to similar boats, the Tarpon 105 is very stable and can maneuver easily through tight coves and sharp bends. At 10.5 feet long, the Tarpon 105 is shorter and stubbier than many sit-on-top kayaks.

　　Because of its shape, this boat is not especially fast, nor does it glide through the water outstandingly well. Simply put, the Tarpon 105 was built for stable cruising and not for speedy racing. For a similar option that is also longer and faster, check out the Tarpon 120.

　　Storage is in no short supply in the Tarpon, either, with a large storage well at the stern thats secured with a mesh cover, as well as a dry hatch ahead of the feet. Theres also a dry box thats hard-mounted in front of the seat, and we found this to be ideal for your phone and keys. More intrepid paddlers than us can even use the rear storage well for scuba tanks, but they work equally well for stashing a few daypacks for some afternoon island rambling.

　　All that versatility has to come at some trade-off, and in the Tarpon 105, its weight. This is no lightweight fiberglass racing shell, and at 55 pounds youll certainly enjoy hauling it around on a kayak carrier. The kayak sports four rigid carry handles for the task of getting it splashed, and once youre there its easy living. The broad stern also isnt the most hydrodynamic, but for casual paddling, its easy enough.

　　Although a bit on the more expensive side at around $1,119, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105’s feature-packed, durable design makes it a good-value buy.

　　$1,119 at REI$1,119 at Amazon Beginner Kayak Comparison Chart

Kayak	Price	Weight	Length	Number of Paddlers	Storage
Old Town Malibu 9.5	$700	54 lbs.	95	1-person	Center accessory hatch, front and rear storage wells
Intex Challenger K1	$135	28 lbs.	9	1-person	Front cargo net
Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible	$980	52 lbs	15	1 or 2-person	Bow and stern wells, bungee cord on bow
Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R	$1,799	75 lbs.	105	1-person	8 hatch and bow/stern wells with bungee cord
Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak	$899	24 lbs.	103	1-person	Bow and stern wells + bungee cord deck systems
Oru Kayak Inlet	$899	20 lbs.	98	1-person	Open bow and stern areas
Perception Hi Five	$299	21 lbs.	6	1-person	N/A
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105	$1,119	55 lbs.	106	1-person	Front covered hatch, rear storage well

How We Tested Beginner Kayaks Jumping into a new sport can be daunting, and nobody wants to make the wrong first purchase. Certainly so in kayaking, where there are multiple disciplines and just as many specialized kayaks for them. A beginners kayak needs to be stable, easy to transport, and most of all, fun to paddle. Bonus points go toward getting into a craft that you can grow into as you progress.

　　Our lead paddle tester Nick Belcaster has no shortage of water at hand living between the mountains and the sea in Washington State. Between packrafting glacial rivers running out of the North Cascades and stringing together islands in the San Juans on overnight trips, he gets a good amount of paddle time in and can talk ad-nauseam on the benefits of a hard vs. soft chine.

　　We sought the opinions and testing feedback from both our salt-sprayed and tanned aqua-pros, as well as the total paddling newbies among us. Not all beginners will need the same kind of kayak, so we carefully considered dozens of boats and highlighted the best options in several categories. In every category, our recommended kayak had to beat out several other models to earn its place.

　　To identify our top picks, we considered overall value, usability, build quality, durability, and much more. We examined materials, studied brands, and compared pricetags down to the last detail. And then, we paddled our arms off. Every boat has multiple months of casual use under its belt, which we find gives enough time for any gremlins to show themselves.

　　As new kayaks hit the market, we’ll be sure to test them in consideration for this list. At any given time, our roundup will include the best of the best.

　　

　　We got hours in the cockpit; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Beginner Kayak Before you purchase a beginner-level kayak, you first need to determine what type of kayaking you want to do. There are lots of well-made and high-quality kayak brands, and most brands offer options for a wide range of paddling pursuits. Once you know what kind of attributes you are looking for in a kayak, it will become much easier to choose.

　　If you want a kayak for mellow cruising on a backyard pond or small lake, you do not want to purchase a sea kayak that is made for slicing through big waves. Similarly, if you need a kayak that will be easy to transport, you don’t want to purchase something bulky and heavy.

　　There are a few key things to consider when deciding what your kayaking needs really are. There are many unique categories of kayaks, and each category has its own strengths and drawbacks.

　　In this buyer’s guide, we will provide information about many of these categories, including sit-on kayaks, sit-in kayaks, tandem kayaks, recreational kayaks, day touring kayaks, inflatable kayaks, folding kayaks, pedal-powered kayaks, and whitewater kayaks.

　　Once you have identified which category best fits your needs and plans, other important considerations to keep in mind include material, weight, capacity, durability, and price. Purchasing the right kayak can feel confusing, but with the use of this in-depth guide, we hope you’ll be able to identify the right kayak to buy.

　　Types of Kayaks

　　

　　While molded kayaks are the majority share today, inflatable kayaks offer a unique experience and excellent packability; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Sit-on-Top Kayaks Sit-on-top kayaks do not have an internal, hollowed-out cockpit that you have to climb into. Instead, this style of kayak allows you to sit right on top of the boat, where your legs will be exposed to the open air.

　　Sit-on-top kayaks tend to be easier to get on and off of than sit-in kayaks. Also, sit-on-top kayaks tend to feel more stable than sit-ins, especially for new paddlers who are getting used to the water.

　　Sit-on-top kayaks are good for warm weather because the user is likely to get wet. This style of kayak is also better for users who plan to paddle with a dog on board.

　　Sit-In Kayaks Sit-in kayaks have an internal cockpit that you have to climb into to paddle. When paddling a sit-in kayak, you will have a low center of gravity and the rotation of your hips will be more involved in steering the boat.

　　Some sit-in kayaks that are built for whitewater paddling utilize spray skirts that cover the cockpit to prevent water from getting inside. Sit-in kayak users will experience less wind resistance than sit-on-top kayakers.

　　Tandem Kayaks Tandem kayaks are paddled by two people at once. To allow this, these boats are usually longer than single-user boats and include two seats instead of one.

　　Tandem boats can be inflatable or made of solid material. The process of learning how to paddle in sync with your partner can be a fun and tricky challenge.

　　

　　(Photo/REI) Recreational Kayaks When a kayak is labeled “recreational,” that means its built to prioritize fun over high-end performance. Recreational kayaks will not be the fastest or lightest boats on the market, but they will include practical features that maximize comfort and allow you to enjoy your paddling experience.

　　Day Touring Kayaks Day touring kayaks are meant for single-day excursions. These boats lack adequate storage space for overnight trips or expeditions. Often, day-touring kayaks are simple and user-friendly vessels built for a quick session on the water.

　　Inflatable Kayaks Inflatable kayaks are filled with air like a balloon and can be deflated when not in use. For users who do not have enough storage space to keep a rigid plastic kayak at home, an inflatable kayak can be a fantastic solution.

　　Inflatable kayaks typically have multiple compartments that must all be pumped full of air before use. This list includes both single-user and tandem inflatable kayaks that we recommend.

　　

　　Folding kayaks like those offered by Oru can be surprisingly nimble, and store much easier than full-sized plastic boats; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Folding Kayaks In recent years, many folding lightweight kayaks have entered the market. These boats aim to maximize portability for kayakers who dont have a lot of available storage space in their lives.

　　Folding kayaks require some practice to assemble and set up properly. Although folding kayaks tend not to be as durable on the water as solid plastic kayaks, they tend to be more lightweight than any other category of kayaks.

　　Pedal Kayaks Pedal-powered kayaks do not require a paddle to move about the water. Instead, these kayaks are operated using your legs, either by pushing or rotating the pedals to generate thrust. This style of kayak is excellent for fishing because the foot pedals leave your hands free to cast out and tend to your fishing rod.

　　Whitewater Kayaks Whitewater kayaks are made to maneuver through fast-flowing water. Whitewater kayaks are almost always sit-in kayaks, with a short length and minimal storage space. Most whitewater kayaks utilize a spray skirt to keep water out of the cockpit.

　　Material vs. Weight

　　

　　Plastic kayaks are tough, and can put up with beaching on rocky shores; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Most kayaks on the market these days are made of solid plastic, inflatable abrasion-resistant PVC, thin foldable plastic, or fiberglass. Different materials work well for different functions.

　　Solid plastic boats tend to be the most durable. Inflatable PVC and foldable plastic are lighter and easier to pack down and store in a small space.

　　If you plan on paddling with a dog on board, it may be wise to steer clear of inflatable kayaks that can be punctured.Solid plastic kayaks tend to be heavier than inflatable and foldable kayaks. (And obviously, tandem kayaks are heavier than single kayaks.)

　　If you plan to kayak alone and need to load and unload your kayak from your car on your own, it is wise to purchase a lighter kayak that you can easily carry. Or, get a kayak dolly. Kayaks on this list vary widely by weight, so be sure to check the kayak’s weight before purchasing.

　　Capacity The majority of brands measure kayak capacity by weight. Before you purchase a kayak, make sure that the boat will be able to accommodate the total weight of the anticipated user (plus the weight of any gear). Its good to stay on the conservative side of a boat’s capacity limit to ensure that it will perform safely and as intended.

　　Durability Kayaks are built to be durable, but not all boats are created equal. Inflatable watercraft tend to be less durable than solid plastic ones because they are vulnerable to punctures.

　　To maximize the longevity of your kayak’s life, be careful not to drag it along jagged rocks during loading and unloading. When storing your kayak, be sure to keep it out of the full sun and away from potentially harmful objects and substances. And of course, always follow PSI recommendations to prevent overinflation of inflatables.

　　Price Its wise to decide on a specific budget before you begin the actual shopping process. Kayaks vary in price a lot, and high-end options can be very expensive.

　　Still, its very possible to find a fairly priced kayak that offers excellent value for the money. If you are considering buying a kayak for yourself and your partner, youll also want to weigh the options of buying two kayaks versus buying a tandem.

　　FAQ What is the best type of kayak for beginners? We recommend all of the kayaks on this list to beginner paddlers. Ultimately, the best kayak will be the one that meets your individual needs and helps you progress as a paddler. Depending on your lifestyle, storage space, preferred paddling location, and other factors, some kayaks will suit you better than others.

　　What size kayak is best for beginners? There are kayaks of all shapes and sizes on the market. The size and shape of kayaks vary depending on their intended function.Beginner kayaks tend to be between 9 and 12 feet long and 2 to 3 feet wide.

　　Long, thin kayaks are built for going fast in a straight line and cutting through choppy water and waves. Short, stubby kayaks are made to be nimble and easy to turn in fast-moving streams and whitewater. Many of the kayaks on this list are midsize to provide a good balance between smooth tracking and maneuverability.

　　Most kayaks — regardless of their size or shape — can accommodate paddlers of various heights and weights. Before purchasing a kayak, check to make sure it can accommodate a paddler of your size.

　　Which is better: Sit-on-top kayaks or sit-in kayaks? Neither kayak style is strictly better — they simply have different strengths and weaknesses.

　　A sit-on-top kayak is easier to climb in and out of, especially while out on the water. Sit-on-top kayaks also tend to be better for kayaking with a dog on board. Overall, sit-on-top kayaks tend to be more comfortable for long paddling sessions, as they allow the user to stretch their legs and move around.

　　Sit-in kayaks keep the paddlers center of gravity low, which decreases wind residence and creates superior maneuverability. In colder or rainy weather, sit-in kayaks allow the user to stay fairly dry, especially with the use of a spray skirt.

　　What size kayak should I get for my height? Most kayaks are made to accommodate people of a wide range of heights. Many recreational kayaks for beginners are around 10 feet long and will be suitable in size for most adults up to 6 feet tall. For those taller than 6 feet, a recreational kayak around 12 feet long will likely be a better fit.

　　It can be helpful to test a kayak’s size by sitting in it before purchasing. Make sure theres enough legroom and your hips fit comfortably in the seat and cockpit. Many kayaks have multiple or adjustable footrests to accommodate paddlers with shorter or longer legs.

　　What length paddle do I need? Having a properly sized paddle can make all the difference. When deciding on the length of your paddle, you must consider both your own height and the width of your kayak. Generally, the wider the kayak is, the longer the paddle youll need to ensure that the sides of the boat won’t get in the way of the paddle blades entering the water.

　　Most of the beginner kayaks on this list are between 24 and 32 inches wide. So, here is a basic guideline for how to size kayak paddles for kayaks that are between 24 and 32 inches wide.

　　Paddlers under 5’5” should use a paddle thats about 220 cm in length. Folks between 5’5” and 511” should use a paddle thats about 240 cm in length. Paddlers over 5’11” should use a paddle thats around 250 cm in length.

　　Adjustable paddles are a good idea for those who will not be able to test out their paddles before purchase. Adjustable paddles are also great as they divide into pieces for storage and travel.

　　

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