If youre looking to jump into kayaking, the options can seem overwhelming. Luckily, weve taken the plunge and dipped our paddles in the best beginner kayaks the market has to offer, testing more than 20 vessels for five years now with an eye toward the easiest models to learn in.

　　There are many different types and styles of kayaks, but weve cut through the static and laid it bare here. Sit-on-top models are undoubtedly the easiest for new paddlers to jump into, and our top pick, the Old Town Malibu 9.5, is one of the best weve ever paddled. Weve also surveyed the budget inflatable scene for perfect kayaks to stick the kiddos in at the lake house, and the Intex Challenger K1 gets our unanimous vote.

　　All these recommendations come service of many hours spent bending a paddle and getting to know these kayaks. Our experts range from whitewater and touring kayak guides to rank amateurs (with good taste), and weve paddled the islands of the Salish Sea to the alpine lakes of Colorado to find the best out there.

　　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, Comparison Chart, and Price Value sections 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 November 5, 2024, to add a new Price Value section and additional testing insights from more time on the water.

　　The Best Beginner Kayaks of 2024 Best Overall Beginner Kayak: Old Town Malibu 9.5 Best Budget Beginner Kayak: Intex Challenger K1 Best Beginner Tandem Kayak: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Best Beginner Pedal Kayak: Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R Best Beginner Inflatable Kayak: Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak Best Beginner Folding Kayak: Oru Kayak Inlet Best Beginner 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 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 jump in and go.

　　Kayaks like the Malibu are wider than their sit-inside brethren, which both increases 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 of us found the tracking to be a bit less than they would desire, and we found the 10.5 length of the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 paddled better in a straight line. 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 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. 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 Malibu 9.5 is our pick for anyone serious about dipping a paddle and getting some quality time out on the water.

　　$700 at REICheck Price at Backcountry

　　

　　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 beginner 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 for a cheap kayak, the Challenger actually handles decently on the water. 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 profile that turns similarly to the Old Town Malibu.

　　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. The K1 isnt quite as stiff along its length as something like the Kokopelli Platte, which has a drop-stitch floor, but we also didnt find it to be a water bed 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 left on the cutting room floor. To clear your bilge, youll need to land and dump out the water.

　　All things considered, the 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.

　　$83 at Amazon Best Beginner 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 really stiffen this kayak and make it perform like much techier kayaks weve paddled. These ribs create a much more defined keel at the fore and aft of the boat, and with the removable tracking fin, make for a remarkably nimble craft.

　　The adjustable seats can be set up in three different ways, and in tandem mode, this kayak has ample space for both paddlers. 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.

　　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. Compared to other inflatable tandems on the market, like the Kokopelli Platte Plus, this is a bit more involved, but you do gain a good measure of performance.

　　Overall, the Convertible Tandem Kayak is a hefty inflatable that feels more like a solid plastic boat than an inflatable one. Its bulk may be a downside for some users — 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 beginner tandem kayak of 2024.

　　$980 at REI$549 at Amazon Best Beginner 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, the most noticeable being that they allow you to paddle hands-free. The Mirage Passport 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 Mirage Passport 10.5 R is a slice of the good life.

　　$1,799 at REI

　　

　　Pros Lightweight High-quality and tough 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 lets water splash in 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. When it comes to a portable and approachable kayak for recreational paddling, the Platte is one we look to every time. 

　　The new Platte is now made entirely from the 1,000 denier PVC that made its predecessor so tough — even the barnacles of Washington’s Pacific coast couldn’t make a dent when we 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, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster said.

　　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 producing a rigid inflated surface. The pontoons of the Platte are separately inflated (to form three chambers) and are pressurized to 2 PSI. Those who make the upgrade from the Intex Challenger K1 will certainly notice the difference in performance.

　　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 tired of lofting a full kayak onto the top of their rig, the 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

　　

　　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.

　　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 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

　　$629 at REI$899 at Amazon Best Beginner 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. That is, however, still an upgrade from something inflatable like the Intex Challenger K1, which also makes a great kids option.

　　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 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.

　　check price 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 Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Kayak ($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 stands out for its comfort and ease of entry and exit. For anyone looking to get into paddling, its hard to go wrong here.

　　The newer Tarpon 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 makes for simple seating adjustments. The higher pilot height also aids in visibility, and is countered out by the broad stern of the kayak, which made this one of the most stable kayaks in our testing.

　　Because of its shape, however, this boat is not especially fast, nor does it glide through the water outstandingly well — but it does track better than our top pick Malibu — due to the added length. 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 mesh-covered storage well at the stern, as well as a dry hatch ahead of the feet. Theres also a hard-mounted dry box 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.

　　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.

　　In the end, our choice of the Malibu 9.5 over this kayak comes down to dollar signs. At $1,119, its a good bit the senior of the $700 youll pay for the Old Town kayak, and this is the kayak wed recommend for paddlers who feel they are no longer beginners, but instead need something with a bit more speed, storage ability, and potential to grow into.

　　$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 the Best Beginner Kayaks Our Expert Testers and Testing Grounds 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.

　　Contributor Austin Beck-Doss laid the ground floor for this guide in 2021 with an initial slate of eight kayaks, having proved their mettle on the lakes around Lander, Wyoming. He came to the market slice a total amateur, making his impressions highly relatable for those who are also trying out this whole kayaking thing for the first time.

　　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.

　　Our Testing Process 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.

　　Because these kayaks need to be tailored to the needs of those new to kayaking, we also leaned heavily on testing input from our friends and family who arent as familiar with the sport. As new kayaks hit the market, we’ll be sure to test them in consideration for this list. Our testing spans the entire spectrum of paddling vessels, from full-fledged kayaks to inflatable kayaks, and 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: Design Sit-on-Top and Sit-Inside Kayaks

　　

　　Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to get in and go; (photo/Nick Belcaster)

　　

　　While sit-inside kayaks provide additional stability; (photo/Nick Belcaster) 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-inside 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.

　　Recreational, Touring, and More

　　

　　Recreational kayaks like the Wilderness Systems Tarpon are ideal for day trips and exploring local lakes and rivers; (photo/Erika Courtney) 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.

　　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.

　　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.

　　

　　Inflatable kayaks will take a little effort to set up, but can be very easy to paddle; (photo/Scott Wilson)

　　

　　Similarly, folding kayaks will require some assembly, but offer better performance; (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.

　　Material vs. Weight

　　

　　Rotomolded plastic kayaks dominate the market, but dont count out folding kayaks, which can be wildly lightweight and packable; (photo/Erika Courtney) 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

　　

　　Rotomolded plastic kayaks are tough and can put up with beaching on rocky shores; (photo/Nick Belcaster) 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 Value Kayaks are an investment, but thankfully, the best beginner kayaks are offered up at lower prices than models made for more intense use. Approachability is a huge metric we consider when making our selections, but even still, theres a range of prices youll encounter when deciding which kayak is best for you.

　　Budget Budget kayaks for beginners will typically run you around $150 to $400 and fit a similar formula. Rotomolded plastic, single seats, and limited features are hallmarks here, but you can still get a great kayak for the price. Our review of the Pelican Argo 100X EXO ($400) is forthcoming, but it is an excellent example of a budget plastic kayak that feels stable on lakes and mellow rivers.

　　You also can get into a cheaper inflatable kayak for less money, and the $135 Intex Challenger K1 gets the job done without feeling like a pool toy. On-water wont be particularly flashy, but its more about just getting out on the water at this price point.

　　Mid-Tier Spending a bit more opens up your kayak horizons a bit more, and for between $500 to $900, you can get into a 9-10 kayak with a few extra niceties on board. Our top pick, the Old Town Malibu 9.5 ($700), sports storage wells at both the bow and stern, and even a water-resistant hatch in front of the seat for your phone and keys.

　　For these prices, you can also get into a more specialized kayak, like the fully inflatable Kokopelli Platte ($899) or the folding Oru Kayak Inlet ($899). Either ask a bit more for their enhanced portability, but are well worth it in our opinion.

　　Premium A premium-beginner anything sounds like a misnomer, but theres good sense in spending a bit more to get a kayak that is specialized — certainly so when you look at the price of comparable models. For example, the $1,799 Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R seems like a chunk of cash, but compared to the $2,000-$4,000 youll spend on top-of-the-line pedal fishing kayaks, its a downright steal.

　　Similarly, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 ($1,119) is a good bit more than our top pick, but we like to think of this kayak as a stepping stone to higher kayaking aspirations. A wide variety of accessories adorn this kayak, and the longer length can accommodate more gear onboard for longer voyages.

　　

　　Pedal kayaks will cost a pretty penny, but the Hobie Mirage Passport is still thousands less than top-of-the-line pedal fishing kayaks; (photo/Nick Belcaster) Frequently Asked Questions 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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