What makes one inflatable kayak better than another? We set out to answer exactly that question by putting these packable boats through a myriad of side-by-side tests. We chose five metrics on which to rate each boat, being both complementary and mutually exclusive, to bring you an in-depth picture of how each kayak stacks up to the competition. Here's how we did it.
Gliding and Tracking
In this metric, we considered questions surrounding the drag of each boat in the water. How quickly do they pick up momentum when you start paddling? How long do they continue to glide after you stop? Can you feel any drag paddling on a calm day on flat water? We also considered their tracking ability by noting how much back-and-forth waggle they each exhibit during normal forward paddling. We looked at their structures to see what factors might contribute to their ability to move in a straight line, including rudders, skegs, and keels, as well as their overall length, width, and shape.
Maneuverability
Here, we considered how easily each kayak turns when you want it to. We tested their turning prowess on flat water as well as on choppy waves and windy days. We maneuvered them around — and sometimes over — submerged objects, up to docks, and beaching on shores. For those that come with a paddle, here we considered the ergonomics and effectiveness of those paddles.
Stability
To assess stability, we sent paddlers of many heights, widths, and weights out to paddle each contender. They reported back on how wobbly each model felt on flat water, in waves, and sometimes loaded with coolers, children, or dogs. We rocked them back and forth to see if anyone fell out (and some did!) and even raced and played “bumper boats” to test their sturdiness. We also considered their stability while getting in and out of these boats by evaluating their sides, sizes, and shapes. We climbed in and out of them — from shores, docks, and back in from the water itself. We invited dogs to hop in as well and noted their reactions to the motions of the various boats as well.
Ease of Transport and Set Up
At its most basic, this metric included weighing and measuring every model we tested. We threw them in trunks and backseats, carried them down winding paths, and set them up far from our vehicles. We noted which models have convenient carry cases, which require additional components to bring along (more weight), and which offer handles for carrying them once they're assembled. We set up and packed up these boats repeatedly in different locations and conditions to assess their processes. We followed included directions and tracked the amount of time it took as we became more familiar with the process. We noted how dirty each boat got during our adventures and how easy each was to clean and get ready for storage. This included getting water out of each kayak, drying it completely, and removing as much debris as possible.
Comfort
We asked paddlers of as many sizes and skill levels as we could find to help us evaluate the comfort level of each kayak. The most important questions were, “How long are you willing to sit in this kayak?” and “How challenging is it to paddle?” We tested these by taking trips of varying lengths and intensities and swapping kayaks with other paddlers frequently to tease out the more subtle differences between models. We considered the comfort of any special uses the kayak may have been designed for. This included checking out foot braces, trying various angles of recline, and using gear holders and storage compartments.
Construction Quality
We put these boats through the ringer for entire paddling seasons (some for many years now). We sent them out with kids, brought dogs of all sizes, piled them full of gear, and took them across all manner of abrasive objects. We noted the construction and care put into the construction of each kayak and its carrying bag. Additionally, we checked out the repair kit (if one was included) and put them to use as needed.
These tests helped us put together a complete picture of every kayak and how it performs to help you figure out which is the right choice for your paddling desires.