Choosing The Best Inflatable Kayak: What You Need To Know
So you’ve decided you want to buy an inflatable kayak! Take it from us kayak addicts, you’re going to love it.
If you’re stuck on which one to choose, we’re here to help - here are our 8 key considerations that’ll help you choose the best inflatable kayak for you in no time.
Key Considerations
Usage - What Will You Use It For?
The biggest factor in deciding what inflatable kayak to choose is identifying what you’re mainly going to use it for.
Recreation: typically speaking something wider will be more stable and shorter will be more manoeuvrable. However you can’t sacrifice leg space and if it’s too wide it could significantly reduce speed. If you’re paddling with kids or pets, look for something with lower sides or a sit-on-top design.
Performance: set your sights on a longer, narrower, V-shaped kayak. This will offer excellent straight-line tracking and higher speed, and though it’s less stable when stopped, once you get up to speed it’s often not that different to other kayaks. Avoid self bailing kayaks as the holes can increase drag.
Touring: if you’re planning on being in your kayak for hours or even days at a time, look for something with a good amount of leg room and storage space. An efficient design will also help you reduce the amount of effort and time it takes to get from A to B. Again avoid self bailing kayaks as the holes can increase drag.
Fishing: stability and comfort are key when fishing - again go for something wider and shorter, and with a firm Tech-Stitch base or similar. You’ll also want to check whether the fishing accessories like rod holders are included or can be added.
Whitewater: if you’re going to be consistently paddling in coastal or choppy water, consider something with a reinforced v-shape bow and stern to cut through those waves. If you’re going down rapids, you need something made from a very high-denier PVC that will bounce! A self bailing kayak is also a good thing to have to allow water to drain from the cockpit.
One other note here is about the paddling level of the people using the kayak - beginners will be better served by a shorter, wider kayak offering more stability, while experienced paddlers may appreciate the speed and tracking offered by a longer, narrower kayak.
Capacity
Pick your number of people, and check the weight rating.
Whether you want a 1 person, 2 person or convertible kayak depends on what you think you’ll be doing most of the time. If you’re not sure whether you’ll want to paddle solo or with a buddy more often, a convertible kayak can be a great option but you’ll want to get something on the shorter end of the two-person spectrum (around 4.2m to 4.3m).
Weight-wise, a lot of inflatable kayaks are rated only up to about 100kg capacity. If you’re a larger person or you want to carry extra gear for touring there are plenty of excellent options to suit you, just make sure you check the capacity before purchasing.
Width
Your width decision comes from what you want to use it for.
Wider kayaks as mentioned earlier in this article are typically more stable when still. This means if you’re a beginner or paddling with kids, wider kayaks are a better option. Around 85cm is best as going above that can significantly slow you down.
Narrower kayaks move more quickly through the water in a straight line, and are therefore designed for performance paddling at speed but they’re less stable at rest. They’re perfectly suited for going down rivers or across lakes, and because of their greater paddling efficiency, are a great choice for touring and expeditions.
There are other factors at play but to an extent there is some trade-off between speed and stability.
Primary stability refers to how stable the kayak is at rest, so this is going to be your main consideration if you’re planning to be still and take in the scenery, or if your kids will jump into the water and need to climb back on, and in these cases, you’ll want a wider kayak. Secondary stability is the stability generated when the kayak is moving, and not all kayaks are created equal here. Many narrower kayaks are designed to have good secondary stability. If you’re choosing a wider kayak, make sure you look for one that has a skeg (fin) to assist with straight-line tracking.
Length
Consider here comfort and manoeuvrability.
There’s no hard and fast rule on inflated length, but there’s some basic logic - if you expect to fit two adults into a kayak then once you account for leg length, any two person kayak under 4 metres is going to be pretty tight!
The other thing to consider is that as we said above, the length plays into the kayak’s intended use. Longer kayaks are great for straight-line paddling, provide plenty of leg space and may give you room for extra gear, while shorter kayaks are easier to turn so are more manoeuvrable for playful or white water paddling.
Weight
Don’t sacrifice weight at the cost of quality.
One of the ways manufacturers develop lighter weight kayaks is to cut on construction and material quality - if it’s extremely lightweight and very cheap, check what it’s made from to make sure it’s durable enough to last and you don’t regret your purchase.
Yes you’d typically want to go for the lightest inflatable kayak within your price range but you’re best to find something that uses high-quality materials, and is the right size and weight for you. The best inflatable kayak weight range is under 15kg for a 1 person kayak, and under 18kg for a 2 person kayak.
Ensure it also has enough payload capacity for your intended use. It’s best to allow 25kg more than you think you’ll need.
Materials
Materials are a make or break for an inflatable kayak.
PVC is the standard material in inflatable kayaks (also some cheaper kayaks will use straight vinyl, which is much lighter weight but prone to puncture). Look for a high denier (denier signifies the PVC’s density, which corresponds to toughness on the water) - the best inflatable kayaks use 1000 denier PVC.
Tech-Stitch™ is a high-strength composite fabric in which two layers of high-denier PVC are fused together with an internal mesh weave. When inflated, this internal structure forms a reinforced layer that increases rigidity and resistance to deformation, creating a tough, durable outer surface.
Drop-stitch construction is a separate technology used within the kayak structure. It uses thousands of internal threads to connect opposing surfaces, allowing the inflatable to maintain a flat, rigid shape when pressurised. This technique is widely used in high-quality inflatable kayaks to achieve hard-shell-like stiffness.
Razor Kayaks inflatable models combine Tech-Stitch™ materials with drop-stitch construction, resulting in a kayak that offers excellent firmness, durability, and structural stability on the water.
Fabric Coverings are used on some kayaks to provide an additional layer of protection against scratches and punctures however the significant downside of fabric is that it takes a long time to dry when packing away, and over time can sag and fray. With good quality PVC’s (particularly double layer) you just don’t need the fabric coverings these days.
Seats, footrests and accessories are little things that can go a long way towards your comfort and long-term use of the kayak. Padded foam seats offer a firmness that’s much more supportive than inflatable seats, footrests need to be easily adjustable and anything metal on the kayak must be stainless steel to avoid rust.
Packed Size
Consider how small it packs down.
Many manufacturers make bags that are near impossible to get the kayaks back into. A smaller packed size is better but if you can’t get it back in the bag what’s the point?
We’d suggest looking for something that packs down small but comes with an oversized bag. Just make sure it’ll fit in the boot!
Setup
Fewer inflation points with matching valves and quick-drying materials make a big difference to your enjoyment of the kayak.
Look for fewer inflation points. A good standard is three - one for the floor and one for each side tube/wall. Some kayaks have more separate chambers in case one of them punctures. In practice this means more time spent inflating, for not a whole lot more benefit - there’s still more than enough air in two large remaining chambers to get the kayak to shore.
Also make sure the valves match - it’s painful to have to spend time screwing on different valve adaptors. It’s also much more convenient if the valves are all located in the same area of the kayak and you can quickly move between them.
Finally, look for quick-drying materials like PVC. Inflatable kayaks must be completely dry before storing or they can grow mould, and fabric-covered kayaks can take a long time to dry out which makes pack-up more painful.
Best For Recreation
A fantastic all-round kayak.
The R1 Ultra is the perfect inflatable kayak for recreational paddling. Its streamlined underside delivers excellent handling and manoeuvrability, while the side tubes provide added stability. With a tough Tech-Stitch™ floor, the R1 Ultra is built to last and performs beautifully on the water.
Easy to set up and pack down, it comes complete with front and rear bungee deck lacing, a backpack, and a removable fin.
Paddles sold separately - view our great range of accessories here.
In Stock. Arrives in 2-4 business days.
NEW RELEASE!
Convertible. Versatile. Ready for anything.
A convertible inflatable built for paddlers who want performance, portability, and the freedom to paddle solo or together.
Configures for one or two paddlers
Smooth, efficient glide
Lightweight and easy to transport
Description
The Sprint Duo combines the speed and efficiency of Razor’s performance hull designs with the versatility of an open-cockpit convertible kayak. Compact, and easy to transport, it’s built for paddlers who want the freedom to explore solo or together.
Its streamlined hull and curved floor improve glide, tracking, and efficiency, delivering a faster, smoother paddling experience than traditional recreational inflatables. With a more open design and lower sidewalls than the Edge Pro series, the Sprint Duo is ideal for flatter water, relaxed touring, and everyday adventures.
Built with durable multi-panel Tech-Stitch™ construction and watertight welded seams, it delivers impressive rigidity and durability in a compact, travel-ready form. Packing neatly into the included backpack, it’s easy to store, transport, and launch wherever the water takes you.
Whether you're paddling solo for independent exploration or configuring it for two to share the journey, the Sprint Duo is built to adapt to your plans.
Paddles sold separately – explore our great range of accessories here.
In Stock. Arrives in 2–4 business days.
A fantastic all-round kayak for 2.
The R2 Ultra is the perfect inflatable kayak for recreational paddling. With its tough Tech-Stitch™ floor, it’s durable, stable, and built to last. Best of all, this kayak can be paddled comfortably with one or two people, giving you the flexibility to head out solo or share the adventure.
Easy to set up and pack down, the R2 Ultra comes complete with front and rear bungee deck lacing, a backpack, and a removable fin.
Paddles sold separately - view our great range of accessories here.
In Stock. Arrives in 2-4 business days.
Best For Adventure
A classic high-pressure touring kayak
A dependable solo inflatable kayak built for relaxed touring, confident paddling, and easy exploring.
Classic open design
Ample storage space
Stable, efficient glide
Description
The X1 High-Pressure is a classic solo inflatable kayak built for paddlers who want stability, space, and easy handling. Its open design makes it simple to get in, load with gear, and enjoy on longer days on the water.
With high-pressure Tech-Stitch™ construction, the X1 offers excellent rigidity and smooth glide while remaining compact and easy to transport. Spacious, stable, and practical, it’s a dependable choice for relaxed touring, day trips, and everyday exploring.
Paddles sold separately - view our great range of accessories here.
Why Paddlers Love It
Paddlers love the X1 for its classic open design, generous storage space, and stable feel on the water.
It’s easy to paddle, easy to pack, and roomy enough for gear, making it a practical choice for touring and longer adventures.
In Stock. Arrives in 2-4 business days.
A classic 2-person touring kayak
A spacious tandem inflatable kayak built for shared adventures, big loads, relaxed touring, and easy exploring.
Classic open design
Ample room for gear
Stable under load
Description
The X2 High-Pressure is a classic 2-person inflatable kayak built for paddlers who want space, stability, and carrying capacity. Its open tandem design gives two paddlers plenty of room, with generous space for gear on longer trips.
With high-pressure Tech-Stitch™ construction, the X2 offers impressive rigidity and smooth handling while remaining portable and easy to transport. Spacious, stable, and capable under load, it’s a dependable choice for touring, shared adventures, and day-long paddling.
Paddles sold separately - view our great range of accessories here.
Why Paddlers Love It
Paddlers love the X2 for its spacious open design, stable handling, and ability to carry bigger loads.
It’s comfortable for two, practical for gear-heavy trips, and well suited to relaxed touring and longer days on the water.
In Stock. Arrives in 2-4 business days.
Best For Performance
Hard-shell performance, without the hassle
A high-performance inflatable built to feel and paddle like a hard-shell — without the transport and storage limitations.
Smooth glide with less effort
Stable, responsive handling
Packs down for easy transport
Description
The Edge Pro 1’s hull design delivers the performance of a hard-shell kayak in a portable, inflatable format. No roof racks. No storage issues. No complicated setup.
Its streamlined hydrodynamic hull sets it apart from traditional inflatable designs, improving tracking, glide, and overall efficiency for a smoother, more natural paddling experience.
Built with 5cm Tech-Stitch™ construction, reinforced nose caps, and chemically welded seams, it delivers high levels of rigidity and durability — resulting in a more solid, robust build than typical inflatables. As a true sit-in kayak, it features a coaming system for spray skirts and an ergonomic seat for long-distance comfort.
Paddles sold separately – explore our great range of accessories here.
What The Critics Say
“Lives up to the hype.” — Paddling.com
“Easily the best inflatable kayak we’ve ever paddled.” — Water & Outdoors
In Stock. Arrives in 2–4 business days.
NEW RELEASE!
Compact performance, built to explore
A compact performance inflatable built for paddlers who want efficiency, portability, and the freedom to explore further.
Smooth, efficient glide
Compact and easy to transport
Stable, responsive handling
Description
The Sprint Solo combines Razor’s performance hull design with the freedom of a compact open-cockpit kayak. Portable, efficient, and easy to transport, it’s built for paddlers who want the flexibility to explore further without the hassle of a hard-shell kayak.
Its streamlined hull and curved floor improve glide, tracking, and efficiency, delivering a faster, smoother paddling experience than traditional recreational inflatables. With a more open design and lower sidewalls than the Edge Pro series, the Sprint Solo is ideal for flatter water, relaxed touring, and everyday adventures.
Built with durable multi-panel Tech-Stitch™ construction, chemically welded seams, and reinforced nose caps, it delivers impressive rigidity and durability in a compact, travel-ready form. Packing neatly into the included backpack, it’s easy to store, transport, and launch wherever the water takes you.
Whether you're exploring hidden waterways, heading out for a quick paddle, or travelling light on your next adventure, the Sprint Solo is built to go further with ease.
Paddles sold separately – explore our great range of accessories here.
In Stock. Arrives in 2–4 business days.
Hard-shell performance, built for two
A performance 2-person inflatable built to feel and paddle like a hard-shell — without the transport and storage limitations.
Excellent glide and tracking
Stable, responsive handling
Packs down for easy transport
Description
The Edge Pro 2 delivers the performance and efficiency of a hard-shell tandem kayak in a portable, inflatable format. No roof racks. No storage problems. No complicated setup.
Its award-winning hydrodynamic hull and balanced shape set it apart from traditional 2-person inflatables, delivering improved glide, tracking, and efficiency for a smoother, more natural paddling experience — even when fully loaded. Built with advanced 5cm Tech-Stitch™ construction, semi-rigid bow and stern caps, and chemically welded seams, it achieves impressive rigidity and durability while remaining lightweight and easy to transport. As a true sit-in kayak, it features a coaming system for spray skirts and two ergonomic seats for long-distance comfort and control.
Whether you're heading out for relaxed day paddles, overnight trips, or more demanding adventures, the Edge Pro 2 is built to explore further with confidence. Paddles sold separately – explore our great range of accessories here.
What The Critics Say
“Sets a new benchmark for what a two-person inflatable kayak can be.” — Wild Magazine
“A genuine paradigm shift.” — Paddling.com
In Stock. Arrives in 2–4 business days.