The 7 Best Kayaks of 2025

Best Overall Kayak

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

$1,219 at REI (before member cash back!)

$1,219 at Amazon

The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a time-tested classic, excelling in almost all our testing categories. It stands out for its stability, maneuverability, decent tracking, and glide. With a 20-inch cockpit length and padded seat, it's also one of the most comfortable options we tested. The Pungo is a highly versatile and comfy vessel popular amongst the company's armada of boats because of its broad paddling diversity. Many boats are either short and wide or long and narrow, forcing the user to pick between maneuverability and tracking. Wilderness Systems has successfully created a high-quality hybrid crossover that can competently float through gentle currents and cruise across glassy lakes. With all the extra features this boat offers, it is easy to see why it scored so well in our tests.

The boat isn't perfect; although it's slightly lighter than average, the bulky nature of the kayak design makes it challenging to carry solo. The storage hatch cover requires a bit of care and attention over time and is a slight departure from the rest of the boat's incredibly durable construction. Although the Pungo is expensive, the price is more than justified by its versatility. This multifaceted boat allows for different styles of paddling in various environments. If you want a one-boat quiver, this is a high-value craft. But if the price is too steep for your budget, consider one of our more affordable top picks like the Pelican Argo 100X EXO. Although it's not the fastest, it's stable, comfortable, and comes at a fraction of the price.

Read more: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 review

Best Sit-on-Top Kayak

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105

$1,119 at REI (before member cash back!)

$1,119 at Amazon

The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 builds upon their well-established and ever-popular Tarpon sit-on-top design series. This maneuverable kayak offers excellent storage, comfort, and functionality. The exceptional stability and open design make hopping on and off the Tarpon easy. It's self-draining, so it doesn't collect pools of water in the cockpit, which is much more comfortable. The Tarpon has higher functionality than your average sit-on-top kayak, and it was an easy pick over the other sit-on-tops we tested.

Although the Tarpon is one of the most expensive kayaks in the test, its solid all-around handling and the number of extra bells and whistles it offers justify the price. Like its sister vessel, the Aspire 105, the Tarpon's versatility makes the price point all the more palatable. This well-rounded boat can perform the functions of multiple boat designs. If you are looking to save some bucks and don't mind more weight, the Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 is a versatile sit-on-top kayak that comes at a more attractive price.

Read more: Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 review

Great Value for a Sit-on-Top Model

Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5

$800 at REI (before member cash back!)

Check price at Backcountry

If you want to get the most for your money from a versatile kayak, then look no further than the Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5. Ocean Kayak took their time-tested Scrambler 11.5 kayak and added a host of upgrades, such as a seat pad, adjustable backrest, and a splash-resistant dry hatch, to create a top-notch boat at a mid-range price. Standing out for its construction quality and design for longevity, the Malibu edged ahead of the competition with its extra versatility and features. This boat's long keel and pontoon-style tri-form hull design make for excellent tracking and glide and offer incredible stability in strong wind and waves. With enormous storage wells on the bow and stern, this boat is ready to be loaded with anything you need for a long day trip or even an overnight excursion.

The Malibu is one of the heavier options we've tested, but the trade-off is superior stability. You can quickly get in and out of it on the beach or in the water, making it a fun and safe choice for younger and older paddlers. And you can't beat the price-to-value comparison with this durable boat. It offers a variety of usages, from surfing waves to fishing to sunbathing, all in one comfortable and durable package. If you're looking for a lightweight model that's easy to carry, the portable Oru Beach LT is an excellent option to consider.

Read more: Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 review

Best Bang for the Buck

Pelican Argo 100X EXO

$547 at Amazon

Unsure if you want to take the big plunge on an expensive, high-end kayak? Pelican offers some budget-friendly options, enabling you to get out on the water for a fraction of the price of other offerings. Striking a comforting balance between stability and maneuverability, models like the Pelican Argo 100X EXO aren't terrible on the water, definitely excelling against inflatable rivals and even giving some of the other hardshell kayaks a run for their money. A large cockpit makes for easy entering and exiting on the beach, and we appreciate the extra details like the drink holders, storage compartments, and insulated cool bag that come standard on this budget kayak. Unlike previous Pelican models we have tested, this version does not come with its own paddle.

The downside of the lightweight construction is that the whole thing is a bit flimsy. We aren't worried about the kayak breaking, per se, but we are not confident the outfitting will look so fresh in a season or two. With its 10-foot length and flat-bottom hull, this boat is maneuverable, sturdy, and forgiving for the beginner paddler, but it's not designed to get you anywhere fast or flash. Another great beginner option is the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10. It's also quite stable and easy to maneuver, though it's not quite as comfortable and won't last for years to come. For a budget option that's a little more solid, check out the Old Town Vapor 10.

Read more: Pelican Argo 100X EXO review

Best Lightweight Kayak

Eddyline Skylark

Read the Review

The Eddyline Skylark stands out in part for its ABS construction, which balances the durability of a plastic kayak with the look and performance of a lightweight composite kayak. Weighing in as one of the lightest boats we tested, we could load the Skylark onto our cars solo. Even more impressively, despite being lightweight, this kayak still has robust footpegs and handles, two dry storage hatches, seat adjustability, and padding. If you want a high-performing vessel that won't weigh you down, this one is our favorite — if you can afford it.

The Skylark is stable and one of the easier kayaks to maneuver. In addition, its cockpit is designed to accommodate a spray skirt, so advanced users can use this to keep themselves dry. If water does get inside, the sealed chambers ensure that it won't reach your storage hatches, and this can reduce the chance of sinking if the kayak capsizes. It should be noted that if the Skylark takes on water, the lack of a drain plug makes it difficult to drain. For a self-draining model, check out what the versatile sit-on-top Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 offers.

Read more: Eddyline Skylark review

Best Glide and Tracking

Dagger Stratos 12.5 S

Read the Review

The Dagger Stratos 12.5 S is an exceptionally well-designed boat, with a hull design engineered to deliver an efficient glide and cut through glassy or turbulent waters. The cockpit accommodates a spray skirt if desired, and — skill-dependent — the Dagger 12.0 can navigate class III whitewater and is primed for rough water ocean paddling. With two dry deck hatches and additional on-deck storage, this kayak is ready for multi-day adventures if you are. Unlike many other higher-performing touring kayaks, we were not worried about breaking this one. The Stratos excels in white water, rock gardening, or anything you throw at it.

Not all paddlers are ready or want to take their paddling to that level. The Stratos may be more kayak than your average recreational kayaker 'needs'. If you just want to hit the water for an occasional casual float, this may cost more than you want to pay for such an activity. Unless you aspire to explore great distances in this kayak or intend to navigate ocean or river currents, there are other more stable kayaks that can get you floating for much less money. The Delta Kayaks Delta 12.10 offers comparable performance but is constructed of more lightweight material, making loading and transporting your kayak much simpler.

Read more: Dagger Stratos 12.5 S review

Best Foldable Kayak

Oru Beach LT

$1,049 at Amazon

$1,199 at REI (before member cash back!)

The Oru Beach LT took top honors in our review of top inflatable kayaks with its light, portable, and space-saving origami-style design. For boaters with limited storage space, small cars, or who rely on public transportation, the Beach LT is our pick for you. Having the ability to store your boat in a closet and then grab it by the shoulder strap, hop into an Uber, and get dropped off at your favorite paddling spot is a luxury. Larger, rigid options like the standard sit-on-top or sit-inside kayaks we tested would never have afforded this benefit. Within minutes of setup, you could be on the water in the Oru getting your paddling fix. Then, after you've had your fun for the day, with a quick wipe down and fold up of your boat, you could be back in a cab headed home without ever leaving the city. Unlike most of the other inflatable or packable kayaks tested, the Oru was one of the few that kept up with the regular kayaks in terms of glide and tracking.

Although there is so much we love about this model, some minor design flaws affect its performance. Limited bracing points and a large cockpit decrease its stability and can make for a wetter ride on windy days. Also, the boat's light weight is apparent in the wind. The Oru can get wind-cocked and blown around without a skeg or rudder to help it keep its heading. (Though our inflatable kayak tester found that the Oru is less wind-affected than other inflatable models, it doesn't compete with the hard shells we reviewed.) If you bail in open water, this kayak is challenging to self-rescue and should be kept in sheltered conditions. This boat is also one of the more expensive ones that we tested. But if you have limited space, this may be your best option to get out on the water as often and with as little hassle as possible. Those who want a lightweight model with better performance should check out the Eddyline Skylark.

Read more: Oru Beach LT review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	82	Eddyline Skylark Best Lightweight Kayak	$1,749
	78	Delta Kayaks Delta 12.10	$1,495
	77	Dagger Stratos 12.5 S Best Glide and Tracking	$1,539
	76	Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Best Overall Kayak	$1,219
	74	Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Best Sit-on-Top Kayak	$1,119
	74	Wilderness Systems Aspire 105	$1,059
	72	Hobie Mirage Compass	$2,799
	71	Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 Great Value for a Sit-on-Top Model	$800
	70	Old Town Loon 120	$1,200
	69	Pelican Argo 100X EXO Best Bang for the Buck	$550
	69	Perception Tribe 11.5	$799
	67	Old Town Vapor 10	$650
	66	Perception Hangtime	$949
	65	Sun Dolphin Aruba 10	$410
	65	Jackson Staxx	$799

How We Test Kayaks

We've been testing kayaks over multiple seasons and various conditions, predominantly in Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra rivers and lakes. We categorized our testing data and observations into six different performance metrics, attempting to quantify metrics when feasible to be as consistent and objective as possible. For example, we counted the number of strokes it took to make a 180-degree turn to test maneuverability and measured the distance traveled from full speed to a complete stop to measure glide and tracking. We also brought together a diverse group of testers of all different sizes, strengths, and experience levels to help gauge more subjective metrics like comfort, stability, or maneuverability.

• Glide/Tracking (30% of overall score weighting)

• Stability (20% weighting))

• Maneuverability (15% weighting)

• Ease of Transport(15% weighting)

• Comfort (10% weighting)

• Construction Quality (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Expert paddler Sara James leads our diverse testing team. While studying at the University of Leeds, she was drawn into their kayak club and quickly thrown into competitions for a wide variety of kayak-based disciplines. For the next decade, Sara continued to kayak and travel in search of whitewater from the UK to Uganda, Nepal to New Zealand, and Iceland to India. She finally settled in California, USA, and has been exploring the rivers and lakes of the Sierras for over a decade. Creek boating, touring kayaking, stand-up paddle board, ripples, or raging rapids: if it floats and involves a paddle, Sara loves it all. Sara also tests kayak paddles, top-rated Life Jackets, and top-ranked dry bags for GearLab.

Dan Kramer brings a wealth of paddling, rafting, and marine experience to this review. He teaches Swiftwater Rescue at Lake Tahoe Community College, in addition to teaching at whitewater guide schools and beginner and intermediate rafting classes. He is also a licensed Merchant Mariner with the US Coast Guard and captains sightseeing and watersports boats on Lake Tahoe in the summer.

Analysis and Test Results

We chose some of the top models on the market to undergo a rigorous testing process on rivers and lakes in the Lake Tahoe region. The goal was to find out which ones were worthy of an award. We determined which performed best in each metric, assigning a weighted score to each model. We then added the scores up to assign winners. Our goal is to give you an excellent resource to help you decide which kayak to buy.

What's the Best Value?

You can expect to encounter a wide range of prices when shopping for a recreational kayak. A boat's price is mainly determined by the materials, quality of its design, seating system, and the other extra features included. We consider all these factors during our testing but never consider price or value as a performance metric during testing. That said, we understand that not everyone can purchase the most expensive boat with all the best features and latest technologies, so we try to provide a range and highlight high-value products that can save you some bucks while still performing well.

The Eddyline Skylark outperformed all the kayaks overall and in several individual testing metrics. However, the Wilderness System Pungo's much more competitive price point helped it earn our overall Editors' Choice Award. There are more economical options available, like our favorite budget option, the Pelican Argo 100X EXO, and the popular value buy, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10. These are several steps down in performance compared to the premium models. The Dagger Stratos, Ocean Kayak, Perception Tribe 11.5, Perception Hangtime, and both the Wilderness Systems Pungo and Tarpon are all built with thicker, more durable plastic than the cheaper options tested. These models will likely last longer and may offer a better value over time.

Glide and Tracking

To begin, our test experts paddled each kayak in a 50-meter sprint across flat water. We calculated the average of three timed tests for better reliability. We also collated observations and feedback on how easy keeping each boat in a straight line felt. For kayaks that had a rudder, we tested this with the rudder in and the rudder out. Glide was tested by measuring the distance each boat moved in a smooth, continuous motion before coming to a halt. Our testers used eight strokes to get the kayak up to speed and then stopped paddling once they reached a marker buoy on the water. We then measured the distance from the buoy to where they stopped gliding and came to a stop. This helped us determine which boat and hull designs shed water the best to allow the boats to move the most effortlessly and efficiently.

Thanks to its hull shape, length, and drop-down skeg, the Dagger Stratos 12.5 S glides exceptionally well, keeping track over long distances with minimal effort. The Delta Kayak 12.10 and Eddyline Skylark trail in a close second for this metric, with the other Hobie Mirage Compass taking 3rd thanks to its pedal-assisted skeg. The longer kayak designs like the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 and Old Town Loon 120 also excel at staying on track and gliding efficiently.

Models with rigid, pronounced multi-chine, V-shaped hulls, like the Eddyline Skylark, Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 and Perception Tribe 11.5, track well and help the boat get the most out of their glide. In contrast, kayaks like the Jackson Staxx and the Wilderness Tarpon 105 lose some glide due to their wider, flatter bottoms, which push across the water's surface instead of slicing through it.

Stability

Having to deal with an upside-down kayak is not much fun, and ultimately, our goal is to stay upright on the water. Most of the kayaks selected are aimed at the recreational touring market and are designed to be stable and easy to paddle. However, some boats excelled in this task more than others.

The wider kayaks scored higher in terms of stability, with the Perception Hangtime, Hobie Mirage Compass, and Wilderness Systems Tarpon proving the most difficult to tip over.

The Jackson Staxx also performed very well, and although it is wider than the Tarpon, the slightly higher seat position can make users a bit more vulnerable to the wobbles, particularly around moving currents.

The central third of the Dagger Stratos hull is flat, enhancing its stability. However, its narrow width and V-shaped ends make it prone to feel more tippy when it's sitting on flat water (primary stability). When on edge (secondary stability), the kayak feels stable and easy to control, and it could be said that, like a road bike, it is most stable at speeds and when dynamically moving.

The Eddyline Skylark, Pelican Argo 100X EXO, and Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 are surprisingly steady, despite their smaller size, even when paddled in gentle currents. This can be attributed to the relatively large surface area of their flat hulls, which gives them excellent primary stability. However, please note if you accidentally get either of these kayaks on edge, expect to fall in, as neither has good secondary stability. They're just not designed to operate on any sort of edge. If your hobby involves moving around in your kayak, say fishing or playing kayak games, or if you have a fidgety dog or child on your lap, you'll want to consider a more stable option such as the Hobie Mirage Compass or Perception Hangtime, or better yet, consider a two-person option.

Maneuverability

We wanted to see how easily we could make a controlled series of directional changes in each boat. First, we wanted to determine how many sweeping paddle strokes were required for each kayak to complete a 360-degree turn from a standstill. Next, we set up a short slalom course to see how quickly each boat responded to a zigzagging snaking course and multiple turns.

Many kayaks have a combination of hull types. The Old Town Vapor and the Dagger Stratos have a V shape for the front and back thirds of their hulls and a flatter central third. This flat-ish central hull makes it easier to maneuver kayaks of this shape across currents or eddy lines if on the river. Despite being long, the Stratos excels in its maneuverability in moving currents. Expert paddlers enjoyed surfing the Stratos on glassy waves and paddling across dynamic currents. For those who enjoy rock gardening, the Stratos is the perfect playful friend for an expert in this dynamic environment. Retracting the rudder can further improve the maneuverability of the Dagger Stratos 12.5 S, Hobie Mirage Compass, and the Wilderness System Aspire 105.

The shorter kayaks are generally easier to move around; their small size helps the Eddyline Skylark, Pelican Argo 100X EXO, and the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 make sharp turns in small spaces. These kayaks also excel in this test due to their flatter hull shapes. On the other hand, the more V-shaped hulled boats like the Old Town Loon, Perception Tribe, and Jackson Staxx are noticeably more sluggish when turning around and require extra effort to make tighter turns.

When considering maneuverability, we also evaluated how easy it is to re-right and empty an upturned kayak. Self-rescue may be essential when out in open water and far away from land. Some sit-on-top kayaks have self-draining holes, which can make this task much simpler. Others require the use of a bilge pump (and some practiced skills) in order to re-enter, a few can accommodate a spray skirt, and those that have mastered a kayaker's roll can simply re-right themselves if they were to capsize.

Often, we are fortunate enough to be close enough to land to haul your kayak to the side, and we can tackle the task of emptying it there. Unless you pre-plan and add floatation bags to your kayak, 300 liters of water is heavy to move around and will take some time to empty. Some basic techniques and a well-positioned drain plug will make this task quicker and less tiresome.

The sit-on-top models are the easiest to re-right, particularly the Ocean Kayak Malibu and Wilderness Systems Tarpon, due to the sensible handle positioning. The sit-inside kayaks are more difficult, as they take on water quickly and can swiftly become a sinking hazard if you don't attend to them.

Ease of Transport

Ease of Transport is one of those things that you only think about once it's time to load your boat on or off your vehicle roof, carry it to and from water access points, or portage it. However, since you have to carry your boat every time you use it, it's a critical aspect to consider. You may not want a kayak that is way too cumbersome to lift and carry by yourself without the assistance of a cart or friend. To test this, we looked at each boat's weight, width, and length, and the location and design of its carrying handles.

The weights of the boats we tested range from the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 and Pelican Argo 100X EXO at close to 40 pounds to the hefty Perception Hangtime and Hobie Mirage Compass at over 60 pounds. But this doesn't tell the whole story: the width and length also play a big part in how easy or difficult it is to carry your boat, how well it will fit onto or into your vehicle, and if it will fit in your storage spare. While you consider how much weight you want to haul around, also lay out the length and width of the boat you're considering using a measuring tape to ensure it'll fit where you want it to.

Almost all of the boats we tested have both bow and stern handles, however, the quality and comfort of these varied greatly. The Jackson Staxx, Wilderness Systems Tarpon, and Pungo offer the most robust design to compensate for their extra weight.

The Staxx, Tarpon, and Perception Tribe 11.5 also offer side handles on the port and starboard sides right by their seats, which we found particularly helpful when hauling these kayaks around. Although the Hobie Compass has handles positioned on the side, the shallow depth of these handles gives them little functional use when hauling this kayak around.

The Wilderness System Tarpon and Pungo, the Perception Tribe 11.5, and the Ocean Kayak Malibu 11.5 all come with replaceable stern skid plates. These take the brunt of knicks and scratches if you need to pull your boat behind you on the ground.

Comfort

No one wants to be uncomfortable in gear when enjoying the activities they love. Comfort is a critical component to consider when you're sitting in a kayak for hours. There are many different types of seats, cushions, back bands, footpegs, and knee or thigh braces that provide stability and control while providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Some vessels go above and beyond to ensure you don't spend your whole trip wishing to get out of your boat because your back is aching or your feet are falling asleep.

We analyzed the posture, user-friendliness, and comfort of the foot and thigh bracing systems and seats in each of these boats. The Jackson Staxx stands apart from the rest with its raised seat that helps keep your bottom dry, and the open style makes for optimal comfort. The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 also sets itself apart with ergonomic seating and leg lifter that contours under the thighs.

The Old Town Loon, Pungo 120, Perception Hangtime, and Aspire 105 are options with excellent seating and bracing systems, wide-open cockpits for ease of access, and adjustable features for personalized comfort.

The premium outfitting in the Dagger Stratos makes it more comfortable than your average touring kayak; however, the relatively smaller cockpit size makes entry and exit more awkward for those who are less agile or have longer legs. Larger sizes are available but, ultimately, if you are looking for lounging times, the Stratos is not the ticket. The Hobie Mirage Compass caters to the comforts of paddlers, particularly as the option to pedal rather than paddle can relieve stress off tired arms.

But comfort doesn't come without a cost, and the comfortable Wilderness Systems models seats will cost you more than introductory-level models like the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 or even the more modest Old Town Vapor. In addition to the higher price tag, super comfortable models typically weigh more. The lightweight Aruba only has an adjustable back band with no seat cushion, and the Vapor's cushioning is basic and has little adjustability in the seat. This is fine for an hour or less of paddling, but if you love spending time on the water, you'll want to add cushions or spring for a more supportive — and expensive — boat.

Construction Quality

The way a boat is designed and manufactured, and the material it is constructed from, are key attributes indicating the durability of a craft. Generally, these kayaks can take a licking when transported or paddled. You can drag them over beaches, paddle them around and over rocks, or expose them to the sun for long periods without the kayaks deteriorating quickly (though you should avoid all of these things if you want to maximize the longevity and quality of your vessel). Boats can be manufactured with a number of materials, but the primary two used in recreational versions are high-density roto-molded linear polyethylene or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).

Most of the crafts we tested use similar polyethylene plastics, but at different densities. The exceptions are the Eddyline Skylark and Delta 12.10, which are constructed of layered materials. We compared the sturdiness of all these vessels, including their outrigging and other features, to determine how well they will hold up to rugged use. Seats, handles, foot braces, deck storage bungee cords, dry storage hatch covers, and locking levers were some of the features we examined during our testing.

The Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 and Pelican Argo 100X EXO use a lot less plastic than the other boats, making for a much thinner hull and deck. These are more flexible and seem much less durable than the sturdier plastic used in the construction of all of the Wilderness Systems, Dagger Stratos, Perception, and Old Town kayaks. This was especially evident when we tied the kayaks to roof racks and noticed the thinner plastic quickly buckling or 'oil canning' when put under pressure. These particular kayaks are not designed to be put under stress, hence the lower quality material and price tag.

The Dagger Stratos 12.5 S, on the other hand, is constructed from premium materials with premium outfitting and is ready to be pushed to the max. With a central pillar to ensure that this will not crumple under pressure, it is ready to be pushed harder, further, and for longer than any of the other models tested.

Eddyline Skylark and Delta Kayak 12.10 are unique in that they offer lighter materials but do not sacrifice performance or durability. These kayaks also excelled in the quality of their outfitting, with adjustable seat rests and padded seats that are designed to last more than one season.

Conclusion

It was a blast playing around out on the water, testing and comparing all these fine kayaks. We feel confident that, after reading our testing analysis and buyer's guide, you will have a better understanding of the wide world of kayaking. With so many options on the market these days, there's no one boat that's right for everyone. We hope you take the information we provide here and use it to find the qualities, styles, features, and price tags that are the most important and appealing to you. After all, the best boat for you is the one you feel the most comfortable in and enjoy paddling the most — the one that gets you out paddling as often as possible.