5 Best 1-Person Inflatable Kayaks To Buy in 2024
Which Single Kayak Is Best?
You love kayaking, don’t you? And a little bit of fishing alongside as well? Well, I love it too. But even more, we all love it when we don’t have to carry large hardshell kayaks around, especially if we go to the shoreline solo.
Enter the 1-person inflatable kayaks. They’re generally convenient to use for many reasons. A one-person Inflatable kayak is better for traveling than its tandem inflatable counterpart because it’ll weigh less.
Also, it is quicker to inflate and deflate, and transported in your vehicle, and even airplane. Moreso, it is often less expensive than the tandem inflatable kayak. These are a few of the numerous qualities of the one-person inflatable kayaks and there are more.
If you’re interested in acquiring a one-person inflatable kayak but are confused about which is best for you, we have brought to you 5 of the best options currently existing on the market.
This list hopefully, will help you make the right decision the next time you visit a kayak store or market.
Factors To Consider When Buying A One-Person Inflatable Kayak
That you’ve come this far reading this article means that love going solo while kayaking but, perhaps you need some sort of guidance on which product and brand is the right one to put your money on.
Don’t fret. We have brought you, the major things to look out for when you’re about to purchase it. This was done through in-depth performance research and analysis of the best available one-person inflatable kayaks.
Use
Leading the list of our guide is the use because every other factor depends on it. You need to ask yourself questions and determine what kind of kayaking you want to be doing with it.
Will you be hitting fast-moving whitewater? Or just cruising slowly on slow-moving waters? Do you enjoy heading to the farthest part of the waters or just fishing while kayaking close to the shoreline?
You can get to do all these in most one-person inflatable kayaks but some come with better features than others.
Size
As a lover of solo kayaking, you don’t need to worry about kayaks that occupy more than one kayaker. All you need to consider regarding size is the weight capacity of the one-person inflatable kayak you’re interested in.
For example, if you enjoy doing overnight kayaking and fishing, you must go for a brand and model that allows for food and drink storage as well as other important things like light, fishing gear, etc.
Compactness and Portability
The true essence of inflatable kayaks is the ability to be easily folded for easy transport and storage. Although some brands appear heavier than others, they must possess a storage pack. The storage bag allows for easy carriage no matter the weight with a sturdy handle or shoulder straps at best.
Material of Design
One of the factors that determine how useful and lasting your inflatable kayaks are is the material of design. It is an important key to their brands’ success. You may be wondering how inflatable kayaks could ever be classified as durable- or even safe, at that. I was once like that too.
But when I got to see it for myself, the durability and the ability to stay inflated even after contact with a sharp rock, I was awed.
In addition, they always come with air chambers, air-tight valves, and multiple layers to provide additional security; so you don’t have to worry whenever you’re on the water.
The idea is that they must be durable enough to be puncture-resistant as well as be lightweight and compact enough to not require a trailer for transportation.
That being said, there are several inflatable kayak materials but the three most popular with high durability, and low weight are Nitrilon, PVC, and Hypalon.
Nitrilon
Nitrilon is derived from the chemical combination of 1200-denier polyester fiber and synthetic nitrile rubber. It is strong, reliable, and far more resistant to puncture and abrasion than its PVC counterpart.
It is also a more ecologically friendly option. However, when compared with other options, it is heavy. That is why it is often used for the sides and bottom design of inflatable kayaks instead of the whole kayak.
PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride
This is the most popular design material for inflatable kayaks, despite its failure to be eco-friendly. It is commonly chosen because of its lightweight, easy-to-fold, and affordable features.
The polyvinyl chloride material is often combined with other materials like nylon for more strength and elasticity against puncture and tear. The only setback with PVC, however, is that it doesn’t fare well under ultraviolet rays and high temperatures.
Hypalon
The Hypalon is the most advanced of the three. And the most expensive. Devices made with Hypalon often possess exceptional strength and are resistant to ultraviolet rays, puncture, and abrasion.
They also tend to retain their original shape well. Hypalon is used as a primary material only in exclusive inflatable kayaks. You may only see cheaper models with PVC as the primary material and Hypalon as a coating.
Stability
In general, inflatable kayaks are found to be stable on the water and are suitable for beginners or first-time users. Although if you want good speed and maneuverability, you’ll need a slender and long kayak if you’re interested in getting more than enough stability, what you go for are kayaks with a considerable amount of width.
Comfort
The importance of comfort while kayaking cannot be overemphasized. As you enjoy outdoor water adventure in your speedy and rugged kayak, it is important that you feel comfortable also. If you get home with pains all over your body that means your adventure is altogether useless!
Therefore, you need to check if the one-person inflatable kayak model you’re purchasing passes the comfortability test to do this successfully, these are the things you’ll need to check:
Seats
You will find adjustable seats very comfortable as they allow you to shift to whatever position you find convenient at the time. Also, those with backrest support allow you to stay relaxed on the water.
You may also find some seats flat on the kayak floor with little or no padding, and some with padding that helps keep your body off the floor of your kayak, placing you in a position more natural for your body to sit.
Internal space
Checking for internal space in the kayak may not be a general thing to do. People who are small in size often find most one-person inflatable kayaks fitting enough.
However, if you’re a person of large size, whether in length or otherwise, you’ll need to check for a kayak that gives enough room to spread your legs to avoid feeling uncomfortable and consequently cranking up your legs. Although adjustable seats are included to solve this problem, still you must consider them.
Moreover, if you enjoy night kayaking and overnight camping, it is important that you consider a spacious kayak. This helps you to keep your gear without feeling uncomfortable in your kayak.
1. Bote Deus Aero 110 Classic Teak Inflatable Kayak
The Note Deus Aero 110 Classic Teak is a one-person inflatable kayak. This inflatable kayak is out of this world, making a long range of differences among its pairs.
Designed to be versatile, it can be easily transformed into a stand-up paddle in a short moment and is suitable for beginners and pros alike.
It is constructed to have a stylish look coupled with streamlined teak-effect paneling that makes you feel as if you were in a mini airboat, offering a great on-the-water experience.
With a detachable seat designed to keep you high and comfortable while you steer, you get to see the beauty nature brings. It also has a top chamber that gives you access to the paddleboard feature option after a long period of kayaking. What more recreational magic could you ask for?
What’s more, the Deus Aero 110 is constructed using a military-grade PVC material that makes it lightweight yet durable enough to withstand sudden contact with rocks.
It also comes with high stability that ensures its safety in case of crosscurrents and crosswinds. Furthermore, you can easily unfold it from its carry bag of 36 × 17 × 13 inches dimensions to a full kayak just in seconds!
Amazing right?
Moreover, there’s enough space in the kayak to keep a cooler, if you’re the type that enjoys both day and night kayaking.
With a removable inflatable seat-back, you can relax and paddle gently. It is indeed a need for everyone who enjoys watching nature up close.
Pros
- It has an amazingly stylish appearance
- It combines both stand-up paddleboard and sit-in kayak features.
- Made of durable, military-grade, PVC material
- It comes with a rolling carry bag with all the necessary accessories.
- Comes with a warranty of two years.
Cons
- No paddle included
- There’s no tether when used as a paddling board
2. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
The Intex Challenger K1 kayak not only made ours for being among the best in terms of performance but also the best budget-friendly. This device is made using a high-quality, heavy-duty, vinyl material which is lightweight yet durable enough to resist puncture.
Moreso, the device comes with a built-in storage net for keeping extra gear and accessories while on the water. It also possesses a paddle and pump, and a streamlined design that allows for great buoyancy.
Furthermore, beginners can find it very easy to use, thanks to its floors of inflatable I-beams that offer adequate stability, making it a brilliant choice for lakes and slow-moving waters.
What’s more, it is easy to deflate, fold, and pack into a storage pack for transport. There is enough room in the cockpit area, although the kayak length makes it unideal if you’re a tall person.
Although the Intex Challenger may not possess all the exceptional features like most in the market, it is a great deal for budget-conscious kayakers who’re looking between quality and budget.
Pros
- Comes with a built-in paddle, pump, and storage net
- Lightweight yet durable
- High stability
- Economic
Cons
- Not ideal for tall people
- Tracking is not excellent enough
3. Aquaglide Chinook 90 Inflatable Kayak
If you’re looking for a single-person inflatable kayak with much versatility, then you have your best option right here. The Aquaglide Chinook 90 is the perfect choice for slow-water kayaking, nature spotting, and fishing.
With about 2 feet shorter in length than the one-person Bote Deus, it appears to be more lightweight, compact, and portable. The total self-weight is 19 pounds, a lightweight with much stability and maneuverability, especially when navigating through tight spaces
Designed with short paddlers in mind, it comes with an open cockpit that provides easy access to it. What’s more, there is a storage unit included on the seat for easy storage of your gear, binoculars, and other small accessories.
Also, it has two fishing rod holders and innovative paddle holders that safely secure them when you choose to switch from one activity to the other. Furthermore, the seat is made comfortable, even on sunny days, thanks to thick foam padding and a backrest with a breathable design.
The seat is held solidly in place by a quick-release strap system and strong closure strips, so it doesn’t tip over or slip as you make a good catch.
In addition, the Aquaglide Chinook 90 is constructed using a ripstop polyester known to provide much resistance to UV rays, punctures, and sudden impacts.
You will find a cockpit drain and a removable floor cover that allow you to easily remove dirt and drain water respectively.
When fully inflated, the device can fit into some hatchbacks! Amazing right? Is there anything more you could ask as a solitary kayaker or fisherman?
Pros
- Comes with a duffle-style carry-pack
- Quick-release straps for seat
- Quick-release weedless fin
- The presence of paddle holders and up to two fishing rod holders
Cons
- Only suitable for slow-moving waters
- Doesn’t come with a pump (a pump of 12 volts is recommended)
4. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Ultralite Inflatable Kayak
The AdvancedFrame is a hybrid design from AdvancedElements, standing in between folding frame kayaks and inflatable kayaks. It fits into our list because of its amazing features as an inflatable kayak.
The device is not difficult to set up and take down, with only about 15-20 minutes to inflate and about half of that to deflate, fold, and get packed into the back of your vehicle.
What’s more, the presence of a built-in aluminum RIB allows for exceptional stability, great handling, and a smooth water ride, cutting through the water and the waves at top speed.
With a base of 32 inches, you can rest assured that your vessel cannot tumble into the water. Moreover, the device also comes with an adjustable, adequately padded, seat to provide additional comfort while you go on a long water trip.
You will also find in the AdvancedFrame a feature you will find only in a few other single-person inflatable kayaks, a puncture-resistant multilayer design for enhanced durability. This makes the device worth every penny you put on it.
Pros
- Built-in aluminum RIBs for exceptional stability and smooth ride.
- Made from durable materials.
- Adjustable, padded seat for comfort.
- A good choice for beginners.
Cons
- Relatively heavier than other options on the market.
- Zippers are water-permeable
5. Itiwit Strenfit X500 1-person Inflatable Kayak
The Itiwit Strenfit X500 one-person inflatable kayak is an excellent choice for kayakers who are interested in getting a kayak with much thrust on the water.
Its strong, epic, design allows you to paddle without any stress. The hull is V-shaped which helps you to glide with much ease, and beats water resistance, allowing you to tour faster than you would go in other one-person inflatable kayaks.
The device’s stability is better ensured by the inclusion of a drop-stitch design that helps to resist sudden impact. In addition, the Itiwit X500 provides great water efficiency, thanks to some excellent features such as a comfortable sit-on-top seat, external webbing, a backpack carry case, and an easily adjustable footrest.
However, this device has stability issues, and may not be the best option for amateur kayakers. Even professionals need to get acquainted with it first!
To safely use this kayak, you have to always be mindful of the amount of weight you put on it. Besides the issue of stability, the Itiwit X500 is one of the best options there is on the market for professional kayakers who enjoy water speed.
Pros
- Great water efficiency
- Comes with a backpack carry case for easy storage and transport
- Excellent glides and speed on the water
Cons
- Not suitable for beginner kayakers
- Its stability issue can make it tip over easily.
Features of 1-Man Inflatable Kayaks
Storage
Most inflatable kayaks often come with room to store necessary gear and accessories either on the kayak hull or inside the kayak. Storage nets are a lightweight and effective way to safely secure your gear and other gadgets.
Carry grips
Carry handles are an essential part of a kayak. They’re typically included to easily transport kayaks to and from the water. Located on either side of the kayak, on either end or both places, they’re often padded to allow for convenient carrying.
Seats
Seats are included to give creature comforts for kayakers on an adventure. Most inflatable kayak seats are adjustable, allowing you to shift to whatever position that is convenient for you. Seats with backrests are also a great addition to kayaks, and they’re removable.
Splash guards
Most inflatable kayaks feature guards that help prevent you and your gadgets on board from water splashing. They’re often located at the front and rear of the kayak case and are typically removable for easy access to your gear and accessories.
Carry bag
Another essential inflatable kayak feature is the storage bag also known as a carry bag. Most inflatable kayaks always have one attached from the manufacturers.
A carry bag allows you to transport your kayak, compactly folded into it, from your vehicle to the water or vice versa.
If, however, you will be going for a little hike with your kayak to get access to water, then you’d need a backpack storage case.
You may check if the kayak you’re purchasing has this. If you’re able to find one, good. If not, you may need to purchase it separately for your inflatable kayak.
Footrests
Just as in cars, footrests are provided to give you control over the kayak as well as offer comfort. You may not find footrests in cheap inflatable kayaks but you will find them in exclusive ones, and they’re often adjustable to suit your height.
Skeg
You will always find a skeg in most inflatable kayaks, and it’s often detachable. A skeg is a triangular plastic fin situated on the rear bottom of your kayak that is used for steering and stability.
It is included in kayaks to prevent them from tipping over due to forces from crosscurrents and crosswinds. There is a special need for the skeg in boats or kayaks that are flat-bottomed and that have a tendency of sitting high on the water.
You may not necessarily need it if your kayak’s hull is V-shaped as it will sit low in the water, gaining extra stability.
Caring For Your One-Person Inflatable Kayak
The one-person inflatable kayaks require more care and gentleness than their hardshell counterparts. Below are a few points to note in taking care of your inflatables:
Rinse and dry before packing
Folding up your inflatable kayak immediately after usage without washing off the river or lake water can give rise to mildew and mold growth as well as encourage a foul smell in your kayak.
Therefore, it is important that you quickly wash off the lake water using clean water before packing to leave the shoreline.
Always go along with a patch kit
It is true inflatables are built to withstand rough impacts but they’re not puncture-proof forever! So, always take along with you a patch kit in case the kayak gets punctured.
Inflatable kayaks, although strong, need to be handled delicately. That is, if you’re new to kayaking, you must learn how to properly use them to prolong their usage.
Even professional kayakers who have only ever operated the hardshell models are not left out because the way you’ll handle the two differs.
When you’re out on a kayaking trip, there are some important things you must put to mind. They’re listed below:
- Always ensure you take a life vest with you and wear it when on the water.
- Always pay close attention to the air pressure levels in your kayak’s chambers, ensuring that each takes in the right amount.
- Always practice how to get out of your kayak in case of an emergency
- Getting the technique of paddling the inflatables can take a while, especially if you’re already accustomed to the hard shell, so ensure you take enough training close to shore before attempting to travel far on the waters.
- Always sail where people can see or notice you.
- Always carry along the built-in pump, repair kit, and other accessories wherever you sail.
- Always load up weight reasonably in your kayak. If you carry extra, it is better to load them in the kayak’s rear instead of the front.
- Never drag your inflatable kayak over sharp things like rocks and gravel.
- Never let your kayak sit under the sun for a long time.
- Never fold up and pack up your inflatable kayak immediately after you’re through with it. Ensure you dry properly to prevent bad odor mold and mildew growth.
Frequently Asked Questions For One-Seater Kayaks
How Much Does It Cost To Buy A One-Person Inflatable Kayak?
The answer to this question depends on many factors one of which is the steering system you want your kayak to be, whether paddle or pedal. Another factor is the type of material the kayak is made of. Generally, inflatable kayaks made with pure Hypalon are often more expensive than those made with PVC.
With only about $350, you may be able to purchase a low-end inflatable kayak, but it will cost you about $1,500 to $3,000 to get an exclusive model.
Are Inflatable Kayaks Easily Punctured?
Highly durable inflatable kayaks are designed to be almost impossible to puncture or penetrate, even when the puncture is deliberate. However, you shouldn’t try to check this.
Can I Leave My Inflatable Kayak Inflated?
You can choose to leave your inflatable kayak inflated if you want. However, it is highly not advisable, especially if using it for a long period is your intention. While inflated, it may accidentally be punctured by anything unforeseen and may lose its air pressure with time; so when not in use, it is advisable that you deflate your kayak. Deflating it also makes it easier for you to transport and store properly.
Are Inflatable Kayaks Stable?
When talking about stability, inflatable kayaks rank favorably as high as hardshell kayaks. They come with features that ensure their strength as well as their stability on the water.
How Suitable Are Inflatable Kayaks For Fishing?
Inflatable kayaks are very good for fishing. They’re designed to be versatile and are in no way inferior to hardshell kayaks when it comes to fishing on various water bodies such as ponds, rivers, and lakes.
