Best rubber inflatable boats of 2024

Inflatable boats are very popular among active people: hunters, fishermen and tourists. Why did the ships find their admirers? The thing is that the design of an inflatable boat is very convenient for transportation, storage and repair. It's easy to find all kinds of boat models in stores, but how do you choose the right one? This is not an easy task. Only experienced users will be able to take into account all the subtleties when buying a boat. For beginners, in order not to be fooled with the product, it is important to understand the issue.

Characteristics of materials for inflatable boats

Today, the inflatable boat market is increasingly replenished with products made of polyvinyl chloride, which are becoming very popular. If the choice is made in favor of such a boat, you need to look at the quality, it must meet international standards. There are clear rules for each vessel in terms of durability, strength, resistance to oils, solvents and ultraviolet light.

In addition to PVC, neoprene, hipalon, rubberized fabric can serve as the material for an inflatable boat.

The ships from the latter are called rubber boats. Such vessels are a little more difficult to store than PVC products, and PVC is better in strength, but to this day, rubber boats have many admirers. There are several reasons for this: the price - the rubberized fabric is very cheap, which means that the ship itself is very affordable; such a boat is light; easy to repair - a product made of rubberized fabric will not be difficult to patch up if a puncture occurs; keeps better at low temperatures and does not lose elasticity.

But rubber also has its drawbacks. It will rot over time, so good care is important. Even the rubberized fabric is less durable than more modern materials.
Rubber or PVC? It all depends on the budget and goals of the buyer.

Vessel selection criteria

In order to determine the boat to your liking, you need to answer yourself a few important questions:

1. How will the model be used? Hunting, fishing or tourist rafting - different boats are suitable for each type of leisure.
2. Will the ship be equipped with a motor, oars, and a hard plastic bottom? Inflatable keel - important?
3. Think about how many people should fit in the boat.
4. On what reservoirs it is planned to move, at what time of the year. The color of the vessel also depends on this.
5. How important is the manufacturer?
6. Budget or more expensive models?

Boat dimensions

An important point that distinguishes the functionality of the models and their characteristics. For those who go on vacation with a company of like-minded people, you need a spacious boat, on board which you can take more people.

If you plan to go out into nature alone, then it is easy to limit yourself to a single vessel. It is easy to use and even easier to transport due to its low weight. It is better to choose a boat at least two and a half meters in length. Everything you need will fit in such a boat.

Double rubber boats are longer in length, from three meters. It is difficult to cope with it alone, but it is more stable in strong winds.

Motor models

Although rubber inflatable boats are not designed for the motor, some models still have a transom, which can be either mounted or glued in. It must be said that moving on a rubber boat with a motor will not be fast.

The rubberized fabric boat motor has low power. It can be gasoline and electric.

A Russian manufacturer such as the Yaroslavl Rubber-Technical Plant offers a limited series of boats with a transom: Volga and Vega 3 and 12. They can be equipped with motors up to three horsepower.

Rowing boats

A more familiar version of a boat made of rubberized fabric. Ideal if you plan to "sway on the waves" near the coast. The lack of a motor on the boat affects the weight, so it is more convenient to use it.

Top manufacturers

In the market of inflatable boats, a change of leaders has taken place over the years. A couple of years ago, Russian fishermen and just lovers of outdoor activities on the water preferred boats of budget brands Ufimka, Nyrok, Yaz, Ivolga, Zorka, Veterok, Chaika, Omega and "Lisichanka". Among foreign manufacturers, Zodiac, Quicksilver and Stingray were popular, but their watercraft were very expensive.

To date, among the popular models that have received the largest number of positive responses, there are inflatable boats of the brands:

1. LLC PKF Mnev and K, St. Petersburg - has been manufacturing inflatable boats since 1988, in serial production there are more than 7 dozen models, including motor-rowing and used only with a motor, the length of boats is from 200 to 800 cm
2. Fregat Plant, St. Petersburg - is engaged in the production of boats for fishermen and hunters, the company's products are used by the Russian special services. The first inflatable boats were produced in 1991.
3. LLC "Lotsman-SPB" is another manufacturer from the Northern capital, engaged in the production of boats, awnings for them, various accessories and components.
4. Solar is a Novosibirsk company, one of the largest boat manufacturers, creating models for different operating conditions using Finnish PVC material.
5. Intex - this manufacturer is one of the most famous in the field of inflatable products: boats, swimming pools, beds, balls - this is the little that is produced under this brand.

In today's review, inflatable boats from these manufacturers will be presented, which have earned a large number of positive reviews.

Nuances when choosing

Before buying a boat, you need to check the quality. The fabric should be rubberized on both sides - it will last longer and less puncture. "One-sided" tires can fail at the most inopportune moment.

When choosing, it is important to pay attention to the connection points. The seams on the boat are as follows:

• Joint to joint is the most durable option.
• Overlap - difficulties can arise with such a connection. Here you cannot see how the seams are glued, and therefore the boat can let air through.

The strength of the joints will be higher if seam tapes are present.

Better to buy a boat with a hard, removable seat. This is much more convenient to use.
Manufacturers did not plan to create rubber boats with a hard bottom, so everything was limited to inflatable or simple rubber boats, on which you cannot stand.

The bottom view in a rubber boat does not play a special role.But if there is a choice between a model with a simple rubber and an inflatable, then it is better to choose an inflatable, it is considered safer.

Oars are always supplied with a rubberized boat. They will be either wood or aluminum. Metallic ones are lighter, but they can sink. Wood is heavier, but will not sink.

Requirements for rubber boats

In the CIS, a compulsory registration of a vessel has been introduced, which has a length of more than two and a half meters, withstanding more than 225 kilograms. Motorboats are independent of parameters and all are registered. At the same time, technical inspection, side numbers and taxes are an integral part.

Supervision can fine violators, as well as issue a ban on driving a boat. If registration has not been carried out, then you must have documents for the boat and motor, confirming the ownership.

Boat care rules

Any boat requires a "good" attitude. In order for it to last longer, you need to follow the storage recommendations:

1. If space permits, it is better to store the product in a straightened and slightly inflated state.
2. There is no room, so you can pack the boat in a protective cover. But you need to do it right.
3. Before "rolling" it is necessary to wash the whole vessel with soapy water, then rodents will not be interested in your property.
4. Garbage accumulates in secluded corners - between the bottom and sides. It must be cleaned and then rinsed with water and the boat is left inflated.
5. After the boat is dry, it should be sprinkled with talcum powder.
6. After letting out the air, you need to carefully roll the boat from the back to the bow.
7. The twisted boat must be put in a cover that will protect the rubber from ultraviolet radiation.
8. It is better to take out and twist the boat in a new way every two months so that the folds do not fray.
9. It is necessary to store the product in a warm room. But if it is possible only at sub-zero temperatures, then before pumping it should be warmed up.

Top best rubber boats

It is not so easy to choose a boat that will delight on vacation with its running characteristics, comfort and beauty. Some ships are better than some models in some way, but they are inferior to others in other parameters. The pros and cons of various swimming aids are easy to find in the rating of high-quality and popular models:

Inflatable boat Intex Explorer-300 Set (58332)

This is a three-seat rowing boat made of unreinforced PVC. The bottom is inflatable, the transom is built-in, the keel is not expected.

The dimensions of the craft: 117x211 cm, weight - 3.5 kg, the diameter of the cylinders - 41 cm. The boat is capable of keeping afloat 182 kg.

The set includes: pump, oar structures, oarlocks.

The starting cost is 1890 rubles.

• Due to its compact size, it does not require registration;
• Convenience in transportation due to low weight;
• Attractive design;
• The wide flap makes it easy to deflate the boat.

• The carrying capacity does not make it possible to accommodate more than 2 adults in the boat, although 3 places are declared;
• More suitable for recreation than fishing, again, due to its compactness and carrying capacity;
• The oars are a bit short, they can untwist, as they are a prefabricated structure.

Inflatable boat Pilot M-290

This watercraft assumes the operation of a motor with a maximum power of up to 6 hp. Designed for 2-3 adults, carrying capacity - up to 250 kg. The bottom is non-inflatable, the transom is built-in with a height of 38.1 cm. The seats are rigid.

The set includes: oars, oarlocks, rope, pumping device, repair kit.

The boat is produced in green color, dimensions: 140 x 290 cm, cockpit: 58x192 cm, balloon 38 cm in diameter. The boat weighs 32 kg.

Cost - from 21 300 rubles.

• The assembly is of high quality, all seams are welded, made accurately;
• Sliding seats;
• The presence of reinforcement around the perimeter and the bottom of the cylinder.

• With a good carrying capacity, the boat is compact, i.e. it will be cramped for large fishermen.

Inflatable boat Solar 350

Another inflatable boat, providing for the installation of a motor with a maximum power of 10-15 hp. and weighing up to 34 kg. The material of the craft is reinforced PVC with an inflatable bottom.There is a built-in transom, inflatable keel. The boat can hold up to 500 kg, is designed for 3-4 adults, seating on hard seats. The bottom is inflatable, the number of air compartments is 4.

The set includes: oars, oarlocks, carrying handles, pump, repair kit.

Boat dimensions: length - 350 cm, width - up to 175 cm, cockpit: 80x240 cm, balloon in diameter - 45 cm.The boat weighs up to 47 kg, and the whole set - up to 52 kg.

Cost - from 49,950 rubles.

• The presence of a valve for draining water;
• Convenient carry handles;
• Good lifting capacity;
• Lack of a floorboard and, as a result, ease of assembly and disassembly.

• The standard pump is weak.

Inflatable boat Mnev and K Cayman N-300

This boat belongs to the motor type, the recommended engine power is up to 10 hp. from. The floating craft designed for 3 seats has a non-inflatable bottom with a collapsible plywood floorboard. Equipped with built-in transom and inflatable keel. Carrying capacity - 370 kg.

Complete set: oars, oarlocks, rope, pump, repair kit, handles for transportation, removable awning.

Boat dimensions: 144x300 cm, cockpit: 66x224 cm, a cylinder 39 cm in diameter, the weight of the craft is 46 kg.

Cost - from 29,700 rubles.

• The presence of a valve for draining water;
• Included handles make it easy to carry;
• A light weight.

• Small enough already for 2 adult men;
• Payol complicates assembly.

Inflatable boat Intex Seahawk-3

The rowing boat is designed for 3 people, is made of reinforced PVC, has an inflatable bottom and inflatable soft seats located in the bow and rear of the cockpit. On board can hold up to 300 kg.

The boat is equipped with a rope, a repair kit, oarlocks and fishing rod holders.

The boat is 295 cm long, 137 cm wide. The diameter of the cylinders is 43 cm, the air compartments are 2. The boat weighs a little more than 9 kg.

Cost - 6000 rubles.

• Light weight, easy to carry;
• The rod holder makes fishing easier.

• The boat, due to the lack of a keel, is not very suitable for a troubled reservoir;
• Easy to punch;
• A bit tight for the declared 3 places.

Inflatable boat Frigate M-330

The motor boat is designed for 4 people and can hold up to 500 kg on board. The power of the motor with which the watercraft is completed should be within 15-18 liters. from. Includes built-in transom and inflatable keel. The bottom, depending on the modification, can be inflatable or not, with plywood flooring. There are three air compartments.

Complete with a boat: hard seat, oars, oarlocks, rope, pumping unit, repair kit.

Watercraft dimensions: 172х334 cm, cockpit - 45х251. Weight: 43-59 kg.

Cost - from 31,790 rubles.

• Convenient carry handles;
• Easy to assemble;
• Stable even with impressive waves;
• Easy to clean.

• Weak regular pump;
• Difficult to fold after disassembly.

Inflatable boat Mnev and K 330

Motorboat with a non-inflatable bottom and a floorboard made of plywood or aluminum. Depending on the modification, it can be equipped for 3-6 places and have a carrying capacity of 420-610 kg. The motor, which can be installed on the watercraft, must have a capacity of 18-25 liters. from. There is a built-in transom and an inflatable keel. Air compartments - 3.

What is included with the boat: hard seats, oars and oarlocks, a rope, carrying handles, pump, repair kit, removable awning.

The dimensions of the craft: length - 330 cm, width depends on the modification and can be 150-172 cm. Cockpit: 67-78x235-246 cm. The balloon is 40-47 cm in diameter. The boat weighs 52-66 kg.

Cost - from 32 650 rubles.

• Good lifting capacity and capacity;
• The presence of handles facilitates transportation;
• There is a valve for pumping out water;
• Resistant to waves.

• The assembly is a little complicated.

Inflatable boat Solar Optima-350

Motor boat made of reinforced PVC with a density of 900 g / sq. m, equipped with an inflatable bottom, built-in transom and inflatable keel. The motor that is recommended to be used for this watercraft must have a capacity of up to 15 liters. from.

The boat is designed for three seats on hard seats and has a lifting capacity of 500 kg.

The set includes a rope, fender, repair kit, oars, oarlocks and handles for transportation.

Dimensions of the boat: 170x350 cm, cockpit: 80x240 cm. The cylinder in diameter is 45 cm. The weight of the boat is 38 kg, and the total equipment is 50 kg.

Cost: from 49 900 rubles.

• A light weight;
• The presence of handles for transportation;
• Convenience and ease of assembly.

• The pump in the kit is low-power, quickly breaks down.

Inflatable boat Mnev and K Cayman N-330

A motor boat, the bottom of which is non-inflatable, the floorboard is made of plywood. The recommended motor must be up to 18 HP. from. The boat, which has an inflatable keel and an integrated transom, is equipped with hard seats and can accommodate three adults. The total weight that can be carried on board is 420 kg.

Along with the swimming facility itself there are rowing structures, oarlocks, carrying handles, a repair kit, a pumping device, and a removable awning.

Boat dimensions: 152х330 cm, cockpit: 67х236 cm. The cylinder is 42 cm in diameter. And the boat weighs 52 kg.

Cost - 32 650 rubles.

• Despite its weight, it is easy to carry thanks to the handles;
• Good lifting capacity and dimensions.

• Standard pump.

Inflatable boat HUNTERBOAT Hunter 290

The motor boat is made of reinforced PVC, the bottom differs depending on the modification, it can be inflatable or not, in the latter case, plywood, collapsible, is used. The transom is built-in, the keel is inflatable or absent.

The boat is designed for 2-3 places, carrying capacity: 300-350 kg, depending on the modification. It also affects the recommended engine power - 5-9.9 liters. from. Seating on inflatable seats.

Along with the craft there is: a rope, oars, oarlocks, handles, a pump, a repair kit.

The dimensions of the craft: length - 290 cm, width depends on the modification and can be 140-152 cm, cockpit: 63x192 cm. The cylinder in diameter: 39-42 cm. The boat weighs from 22 to 31 kg.

Cost - from 15 200 rubles.

• Ease of assembling a product with an inflatable bottom;
• Easy to carry thanks to handles and light weight;
• Keeps well on the water;
• 2-3 adults are comfortable on board.

• Poor quality plywood floorboard (impregnation), swells when it is in water for a long time.

Which one to buy?

It is important to make a choice and not be mistaken. Planning a long rafting trip with friends? It is better to choose a spacious and durable boat. Do you like to sit in the evening with a fishing rod and think about living alone? A single, lightweight model will do. If you are a duck hunter, then feel free to take a stable vessel with a hard bottom.

Comfortable, beautiful, durable, with good running characteristics, the boat will delight the owner and make leisure time pleasant. What transport is better to buy? The one that suits your needs exactly. There are many rubber inflatable boats, so every outdoor enthusiast will find his own model.