Inflatable kayaks can be divided into various categories just like solid kayaks.
The subdivision is based on the construction, the equipment, and the area of application. Some of the most popular types of inflatable kayaks include:
Sit-in kayaks
If you imagine a kayak, you probably think of a sit-in kayak. With these kayaks you sit inside the boat (the so-called cockpit).
The legs are stretched out below deck. Only the upper body looks out of sit-inside kayaks.
In addition, a splash guard can be used to prevent water from getting into the interior of the canoe.
If you are traveling in winter, in turbulent waters, or at low water temperatures,how much does a hoverboard cost you should therefore rely on a sit-in kayak.
The sitting position is lower for sit-in kayaks. The center of gravity is, therefore, closer to the water, which ensures that the boat lies safely in the water.
Sit-on-top kayak
Sit-on-top kayaks stand out due to their open deck. At first glance, sit-on-top kayaks, therefore, look like Canadians. These kayaks sit on a seat mounted on the bottom of the boat.
The legs are also not below deck here.
Models for beginners and advanced kayaks are often sit-on-top kayaks. This is another reason why the number of sit-on-top kayaks sold exceeds the number of sit-in kayaks sold.
Sit-on-top kayaks are best suited for leisurely tours over calm waters.
Waves would always flush water inside and even in cold weather you are largely at the mercy of the external conditions.
Whitewater kayaks
An inflatable whitewater kayak is specially designed to meet the special requirements of whitewater. Typical whitewater kayaks do not have a fin, as straight ahead is not important.
Instead, inflatable whitewater kayaks are maneuverable and have openings, allowing water that spills into the boat to drain off.
Furthermore, whitewater kayaks offer waterproof storage space in which the equipment, provisions, and luggage – protected from the water – can be transported.
Kayaks for seas
For the open sea, we recommend longer kayaks. If you build up at this speed, they are extremely stable in the water. The length allows you to cut through the waves.
Typically, the side walls are slightly higher so that less water gets into the boat interior.
FAQ
How much does an inflatable kayak cost?
Inflatable kayaks cost between 100 and 500€. The price depends on the number of accessories included, as well as the quality and size of the kayak. A high-quality kayak with all accessories (air pump, carrying bag, good kayak paddle, and repair kit) will cost you about 200 to 350€.
How to inflate a kayak?
A kayak can be inflated in several ways. A hand-operated air pump is most often used. With a foot pump or an electric kayak pump, however, there are also comfortable alternatives.
The cost of an electric pump is significantly higher than a hand pump. For this, an electric air pump can simply be connected to the cigarette lighter of a car or directly to the car battery and then inflates the kayak independently.
How long do inflatable kayaks last?
Inflatable kayaks last as long as solid kayaks if they are properly maintained. This includes that the kayak must be rinsed off after each use. It doesn’t matter if your last tour was through waters with fresh or salt water. There are also algae and bacteria in freshwater that can spread on the shell of your kayak.
After rinsing, the kayak is air-dried and then stored. With proper storage, it should be noted that the storage location is neither too humid nor too warm or too cold. Furthermore, inflatable kayaks should not be exposed to sunlight for too long. If you follow all these instructions, even an inflatable kayak will last for many years.
The material PVC is very robust. Even dog claws can’t do much harm to PVC kayaks. With an air mattress that breaks when you look at it sharply, inflatable kayaks have nothing in common. The thick outer skin is tear-resistant and quite resistant. Should damage nevertheless occur in the outer shell, PVC patches will help. The patches are simply glued to the damaged area.
What is an inflatable kayak?
Inflatable kayaks resemble an air mattress that needs to be inflated before paddling. Inflated, the kayaks are rock hard and robust. After paddling, the air can be drained again and, like an air mattress, rolled up and stowed in a backpack.
How much does a good inflatable kayak cost?
A good inflatable beginner kayak can sometimes be obtained for as little as 100 €. However, then usually the necessary kayak accessories for beginners are missing, so you have to buy extra. Therefore, it is advisable to take a little more money in your hand and buy an inflatable kayak, which is not only of high quality, but also supplies the necessary accessories.
What accessories do I need for an inflatable kayak?
When buying an inflatable kayak, care should be taken to include the following accessories: kayak paddle, air pump, fin, paddle holder, life jacket and fishing rod holder.
What can a good inflatable kayak be used for?
An inflatable kayak has many uses. So you can paddle on white water or use it for multi-day tours and family trips.
Result
Water sports are a great mix of nature experience, workout and relaxation for the head. On the one hand, you discover the waters in the neighborhood from a whole new angle. On the other hand, kayaking is an immensely rewarding activity.
For the upper body and arm muscles, the paddle can be really exhausting, but the head usually switches off completely. Kayaking often doesn’t feel like a sport at all. As a result, you only realize at the end of a tour what you have just covered in terms of distance.
Getting started with canoeing has become extremely easy with the new inflatable kayaks. The inflatables are easy to transport, weigh hardly anything and are available in numerous variants.
Whether it’s a solo adventure or a shared paddle,best electric skateboards inflatable kayaks are reasonably priced and they’re also available for multiple people.
The compact storage of the inflatable kayaks also benefits paddlers who do not have the luxury of a large garage or unused spaces.
The great advances in production processes have also led to inflatable and solid kayaks getting closer and closer in terms of driving characteristics.
So it’s no wonder that inflatables now account for the lion’s share of kayaks sold in Germany.
