Interested in owning a kayak but afraid of having to lug around something so heavy?
We will be looking at 7 of the best options for lightweight kayaks. These still have the power and quality of more heavy-duty boats, but won’t weigh you down when you need to transport or carry them.
They also tend to cost a little less as well, since less material is needed to make them.
First let’s discuss how we will be evaluating each boat, and what we look at in our ratings.
Comparison Table
How We Choose Our Ratings
Source: Pixabay
Being honest and accurate are the most important aspects of our reviews. To strive for this, we take a few additional steps to make sure you are getting a trustworthy opinion.
First, we thoroughly read through and research customer reviews and testimonials. This allows us to get a broad spectrum of views on a specific product, from a wide variety of individuals. It also lets us pinpoint any potential widespread issues and complaints.
We also make sure to research the product specifications, in order to make the review as accurate as possible. That way if you purchase an item you read about in a review, you know exactly what you are purchasing, as far as the dimensions, features, and accessories.
Lastly, we make sure to investigate the reputation of the company. It is important for customers to know they are buying products from a company they can trust and stand behind, so if we find anything unsavory we make sure to mention it.
Top 7 Best Lightweight Kayaks
So here are our 7 favorite lightweight kayaks, listed in no particular order.
We hope this list gives you the perfect place to start in your search for the perfect kayak to have your next adventure in!
Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 Foot Sit-On Top
- Tracks and paddles with ease while offering maximum stability
- P.A.C. (Portable Accessory Carrier) can be used as extra storage
- Dry storage compartment with shock cord deck rigging
The first lightweight kayak on our list is the Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 Foot Sit-On Top Kayak.
“Sit-on top” simply means that you won’t have a cockpit to sink into. You will literally be sitting on top of the level boat. This is actually a great way for beginners to start out on a kayak, as it is easier to get in and out of the seat.
The Sun Dolphin design is made from a very high-density polyethylene to ensure that it is a durable but lightweight boat. It is a very short and wide model, and it is fantastic for beginners because of the great stability in addition to the sit-on top.
This boat is ten feet long, thirty inches wide, and only weighs 40 pounds. It is very compact and light – you will be able to transport it easily anywhere.
If you are interested in purchasing this kayak, you can get it on Amazon.
Emotion Glide Short Kayak
Next on our list is the Emotion Glide Short Kayak.
This is a white water raft that is very short and thick. It is extremely quick and nimble as well, and perfect for any choppy waters you may encounter.
The Emotion Glide kayak is build out of a very strong, high density plastic, and it comes with bow and stern rigging in order to secure your gear. It also has an excellent warranty that will last you five years.
This boat would not be appropriate for extreme rapids, but it is a perfect entry level kayak for beginners.
It is nine feet and eight inches long, 29 inches wide, and weighs 49.6 pounds.
If you are interested in purchasing this kayak, you can get it on Amazon.
Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110
- KEY FEATURES | 1-person sit on top fishing kayak - 11ft 62lbs fishing kayak that offers best of speed and stability
- MOUNT FOR ACCESSORIES | Includes 2 flush-mount rod holders and 4 integrated gear tracks for customized rigging
- OPTIMUM CONTROL | Pre-installed toe controlled rudder system saves your energy during long paddles, windy days, and...
Another great option for a lightweight kayak is the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110. This is a fantastic choice for a kayak with 1-person sit on top feature. It even includes 2 flush-mount rod holders and 4 integrated gear tracks for customized rigging.
It isn’t the lightest kayak out there, but it is incredibly durable. This design is made of a very strong rotomolded plastic. The boat is 11 feet long, 33 inches wide, and weighs sixty-two pounds.
If you are interested in purchasing the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110, you can buy it on Amazon.
Oru Kayak Bay Kayak
- THE ORIGINAL ORU KAYAK – Meet the boat making waves in the kayaking world and helping people everywhere connect with...
- FROM BOX TO BOAT IN MINUTES – Construct your kayak in under 5 minutes! Oru pioneered the Bay ST’s origami-inspired,...
- SLEEK, DURABLE, & RELIABLE – Although your kayak is small enough to carry when folded, it is most certainly mighty....
Next up we have the unique and innovative Oru Kayak Bay Kayak.
This boat will actually gracefully fold up into a compact little shape for easy transportation. When unfolded, it is a grand twelve-foot-long boat.
This kayak is guaranteed for over 20,000 folds, and is also equipped with a reinforced cockpit and bulkheads to add extra strength to the body while it is on the water. However, it is not designed for heavy waters, you are better off taking it on an open lake.
In addition to being twelve feet long, this kayak is 25 inches wide, and weighs 32.5 pounds.
Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
- 2 person/ 500-b capacity, weighs 26-lbs, Suitable for upto Class III whitewater
- Great package for two includes SE330 Sport Kayak, 2 AB30 paddles, 2 inflatable movable & removable SEC seats, foot pump,...
- Lashed down inflatable spray skirts with storage underneath
The Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable kayak is the first of its kind on our list.
While an inflatable kayak is not for everyone, they are a fantastic lightweight boat that can still be extremely durable. It helps that they can be deflated for transportation as well.
This particular kayak is extremely light, weighing only 26 pounds. When inflated, it is a length just over 11 feet long. Even though it is an inflatable device, it can actually hold up to 500 pounds and two separate people.
However, it is important to note that the inflatable chambers will take up additional interior space when it is inflated. So, the actual seating space is only 9.5 feet long and 13 inches wide. So, you may not find it comfortable to have two people seated in there for a long period of time.
The Sea Eagle also has an excellent 3-year-long warranty, and their customer service is said to be excellent as well.
One important aspect to keep in mind is that it may get blown around in extremely turbulent, windy weather. That can be overcome in most cases with stronger strokes, but it may be a bigger inconvenience if you are constantly encountering wind.
Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
- KEY FEATURES | 1-person sit on top fishing kayak - 9ft, 42lb, fishing and rec kayak perfect for throw and go fishing
- MOUNT FOR ACCESSORIES | Includes 4 flush-mount rod holders.
- STORAGE OPTIONS | V-Wave Center Hatch & storage wells in the bow & stern of the kayak.
Next up we have the Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90.
This is an excellent choice for those of you who want a very short and very lightweight boat. It is only 9 feet long, and only weighs 42 pounds. If you are looking for something light but durable, this is the kayak for you.
The boat is said to be extremely comfortable, it has a very spacious interior, tons of storage space, and it is easy to get in and out of.
You can purchase the Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 on Amazon.
Outdoor Tuff Stinger 3 OTF-2751PK Inflatable One Person Sport Kayak
- Rigid & Durable: The (3) puncture resistant triple-layer PVC air chambers give this kayak the stiffness and resilience...
- Ultra Portable: Only 25-pounds and transports easily in the included backpack
- Quick Inflation: High pressure valve and foot pump inflate the board to it's full 9-feet 1-inch by 30.25-inches by...
The last kayak on our list is the Outdoor Tuff Stinger 3 OTF-2751PK Inflatable One Person Sport Kayak.
This is an extremely light kayak, only weighing it at 25 pounds. You can pack it up into a convenient backpack that actually comes with your purchase of the boat. On top of that you also receive a paddle and a foot pump with the kayak. It is really the best setup if you are looking to hike into a lake or river, or even if you are going on a road trip and want to save space in your car.
The kayak is made of triple layer PVC that is almost completely resistant to puncturing. However, you should still be wary of rocks and sharp sticks when paddling in a body of water.
The seat has mixed reviews from the product customers. Some say that it is incredibly comfortable, and others say that they really dislike it. You may want to test it out to make sure it is right for you.
This is another great choice for hiking or road trips, because it is so small and compact. The kayak has great performance, is incredibly convenient, and can be taken anywhere easily.
If you are interested in purchasing this kayak, you can buy it on Amazon. It is the cheapest option on our list, but is still incredibly high quality.
Buyer’s Guide
Source: Pixabay
Now that you have seen all of our favorite options for lightweight kayaks, we should discuss the features you should consider before making your choice and purchasing a boat.
Budget
First you should set a budget for yourself. Even though all of these lightweight kayaks are more reasonably priced than a larger design, they still vary in price quite a bit. Knowing in advance what you want to pay for a boat will help you narrow down your choices and make your final pick. It can also keep you from spending too much, if you have a very clear idea of what you want to spend to begin with.
Features
You should also consider the features that you would like the most in a kayak. Want a seat you don’t have to lower yourself into? You may want to consider a kayak with a sit-on seat. Want a kayak that won’t blow in the wind? You may want to consider one that isn’t inflatable. There are many diverse choices on our list, so it is important to know what you want beforehand.
Design
Aesthetics are important as well. There are many, many different designs and colors to choose from. Having a boat that you like to look at will help you stay satisfied with your choice for years to come.
Size
Last but not least, make sure to keep size in mind. While these are all lightweight choices, the weights, lengths, and widths still vary. Make sure to consider how much you can handle carrying by yourself, and what you can fit in your vehicle easily.
It also wouldn’t be a bad idea to consider what sort of activities you will be using the kayak for. If you are taking one on a hike, you may want one that can fold up and be carried on your back.
Our Final Thoughts
We hope that this list of our favorite lightweight kayaks was helpful for your shopping. It can be difficult to choose the perfect boat, and it is often good to have options laid out for you.
Everyone’s needs and desires are different, so make sure to take the time you need to make the perfect choice for yourself.
Have you used or owned any of the kayaks on this list? Would you recommend them to others? Why or why not?
Last update on 2023-03-23 at 01:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
