Rating of the best kayaks for 2024

The northern seaside peoples could not imagine their existence without Aleutian canoe and Inuit kayaks, which, in principle, are one and the same. It was only thanks to the presence of such devices that it was possible to hunt the animal and move loads. Currently, analogues have not lost their popularity, but have become more modern. The main area of ​​their use is water activities.

Varieties of kayaks

The best manufacturers produce 3 types of structures:

1. Classic collapsible frame. Basic elements: metal or wooden frame, covered with high quality synthetic material. The main advantage is the ability to quickly assemble and disassemble. Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the minimum rigidity and the possibility of flooding in unforeseen circumstances.
2. Non-dismountable case. Composite or polymer materials are used in the manufacture. The body is completely or mostly closed. It enjoys a well-deserved popularity due to such characteristics as unsinkability, wear resistance, durability and strength. There are 2 options for boarding: on top of the kayak or inside it. The first method is most suitable for beginners.
3. Inflatable. They are very close in functionality to a rubber PVC boat, but they have a high speed of movement due to the optimal shape. Endowed with such positive qualities as unsinkability and ease of movement. Such devices are not resistant to mechanical damage (punctures and cuts).

In addition to the above options, kayaks are of the following types.

Beach

They are used for skiing along the coast and are available for rent for lovers of active recreation by the coastal hotels. Beach kayaks have high initial stability, low ride characteristics and excellent sailing performance. These are steering wheel models.

Walking

This is a cross between a beach and sea option. They are rented to people without professional training. Such models are inexpensive in price, have a closed deck, as well as high running and seaworthy characteristics. Popular kayaks of this type are available in lengths from 3.5 to 4.8 meters and are used for walks on calm water surfaces.

Fishing

Their distinctive feature is the presence of compartments for equipment and catch, as well as special stands for rods. Manufacturers produce branded models with a foot pedal drive.

Classic nautical

They are not suitable for rough water at all, but they belong to the category of universal models. These kayaks are distinguished by their maneuverability and high speed. Mandatory attributes include a seat with an adjustable backrest, leg and hip rests, carrying handles, perimeter straps, as well as aft and bow compartments.

Tourist

They are inflatable, frame-inflatable and frame. Many tourists use them not only on calm rivers, but also on the sea. Tourist models are distinguished by low speed, low directional stability and good windage. The main elements are pressurized compartments, as well as leg and hip supports. You need to spend a lot of free time on disassembling and assembling such a kayak.

For freestyle on rough waters

These designs are distinguished by their small length, excellent maneuverability and small internal volume. Freestyle kayaks do an excellent job with difficult tricks: water flips, surfing on the waves, etc.

Rafting

Used on categorical mountain rivers. For their manufacture, durable polyethylene is used, which is not afraid of stones and impacts on solid objects. These models are distinguished by noteworthy maneuverability, comfortable leg and hip rests, and a comfortable adjustable seat.

Rafting kayaks are considered unsinkable.

Sports

Their dimensions are strictly regulated. Such designs are characterized by a minimum volume, no strapping, thigh stops and pressurized compartments, but they are equipped with steering control. Designed for use in calm waters.

Crossover kayaks

They are used on lakes, rivers, canals and for simple rafting on rough rivers. Sizes - from 3.2 to 3.8 meters long and 0.65 meters wide.

Surfski for ocean racing

This is a great device for racing in open waters and surfing the ocean waves. They are distinguished by a large bow volume and a steering pedal. These models are recommended exclusively for professionals.

For fitness and sports in calm waters

These models will tolerate slight waves of water, but nothing more. They include minor pressurized compartments, harnesses and thigh stops. Such structures are distinguished by insignificant seaworthiness, stability and maneuverability.

For surfing

In surfing, you can use models with different functions, but to overcome the breaking ocean waves, you need to be the owner of a special surf kayak. Their dimensions are similar to those of floatable ones, but the shape of the top deck and the bottom is different. Surf models also feature 2 or 3 fins under the bottom.

For rowing slalom and polo

Such structures are distinguished by their lightness, small dimensions, small internal volume, strapping and pressurized doors. The seats of these models do not have a backrest, as well as hip and leg rests. Polo kayaks have a sharp bow and stern.

Popular models differ in the number of seats. There are single, double and triple copies. Single rooms are very popular among thrill-seekers. Due to their compactness, they are suitable for extreme recreation.

Doubles are considered versatile and are used for all types of boating. Triple rooms have found their application in excursion walks along picturesque reservoirs.

Watercraft differ in the method of boarding a person in a boat, in connection with which they are divided into:

• Seat-in (closed).
• Seat-on-top (open).

Each of the species has certain positive qualities. Let's consider this issue in more detail:

View	Advantages
Closed	• protected from wind and rain; • insignificant weight; • there are compartments for storing things; • there is a protective cape; • can be used for long-term alloys; • light driving performance and high speed.
Open	• elementary landing; • excellent stability; • you can store a large number of things; • excellent helper for diving, hunting and fishing; • unlimited freedom of movement.

How to choose

The main selection criterion is the weight of a person and his physique. Which one is better to buy when weighing 60 - 80 kg? According to experts, it is worth paying attention to the middle class models. If you put a swimmer weighing 90 kg on it, then it will greatly immerse itself in the water, becoming clumsy and slow.

The volume of the boat should correspond to the weight of the rower. The heavier the person, the larger the volume of the watercraft should be. It also has a positive effect on the comfort of use, as there is free legroom.

In order not to be mistaken when choosing, it is necessary to determine its purpose before purchasing a product. There are universal options, but their price is quite high, so they are not acceptable for everyone. World brands annually release various new items that lead the rating of quality kayaks. For beginners, this question can become difficult due to the variety of options. You can seek professional advice, carefully study the reviews, conduct a review and view the attached photos.

Which company is better? Depends on the individual preferences of the buyer. Russian-made products in terms of characteristics are not much different from foreign counterparts. Where can I buy? Everyone also chooses independently. You can visit specialized outlets to see how much a particular kayak costs and talk to a sales manager. If the final decision is made, then you can order the product in the online store.

There is a certain category of people who prefers to do everything with their own hands, including building boats. How to make a kayak at home? First, you need to make sure that the following materials and tools are available:

• grinding machine;
• drill;
• jigsaw;
• quality knife;
• scissors of different sizes;
• pliers;
• construction hair dryer;
• plywood sheets;
• waterproof varnish;
• epoxy resin;
• fiberglass;
• screws;
• wire;
• aluminum profiles;
• solvent;
• masking tape;
• brushes;
• hardeners.

This list is not definitive as other materials may be needed in the process. If a decision is made to make a plastic product, then the appropriate material is therefore required. You can also make your own paddle, but before you take the first steps, decide on whether you have enough free time, tools and extra funds in the budget.

Rating of the best kayaks for 2024

Walking

Varyag - 480

This is a craft that is widely used for walking along the water surface of calm rivers and lakes for considerable distances. The perimeter of the vessel has a protective handrail, which is designed to reduce the load on the cylinders during side impacts. A rain apron clings to it. What is it for? To protect kayakers from bad weather. The model has knee pads that make it easy to paddle through small waves. The boat can accommodate two people. Product weight - 18.5 kg, length and width - 480 x 88 cm, maximum carrying capacity - 250 kg.

The average price is 37,000 rubles.

• comfort of use;
• excellent functionality;
• optimal combination of price and quality;
• good carrying capacity;
• ease of use.

• not detected.

Muskrat 330

Russian-made products are made of dense and durable polyvinyl chloride. It belongs to the inflatable category. This multifunctional design is suitable not only for walking, but also for fishing and hunting. There is a comfortable plastic seat with a swivel mechanism and a spacious, closure pocket in which you can store a large number of things. On request, a mount is installed - a holder for rods. With a weight of 21 kg, the carrying capacity is 200 kg.

The average price is 31,300 rubles.

• optimal cost;
• special inserts for standing fish are provided;
• excellent stability;
• noteworthy handling;
• hard bottom;
• multifunctionality;
• high assembly reliability;
• made of quality materials;
• comfort of use.

• not identified.

BestWay Ventura 65052 N

This Chinese company produces two-seater inflatable kayaks, which are made using high-tech PVC material, which increases the kayak's resistance to all kinds of mechanical damage, chemical compounds and interaction with direct sunlight. The model is very popular among those who want to spend their free time in nature, taking boat trips. It makes it possible to travel long enough.

The average cost is 17,500 rubles.

• acceptable price;
• functionality;
• ease of use;
• the presence of a large number of compartments for things and inventory;
• adjustable seats;
• there is a drain valve and a rescue cord;
• equipped with a pump with a pressure gauge;
• inflates very quickly thanks to the purge valve;
• Disassembled aluminum paddles included.

• absent.

For the sea

Breeze M

This model enjoys a well-deserved popularity among lovers of sea adventures. The design of this kayak allows for good speed and long distance sailing. Ergonomic seats make it possible to be on the watercraft for a long time without getting tired at all. The manufacturer has provided pressurized doors and an elastic luggage cord in order to properly attach the load to the deck. The bow and stern are equipped with carrying handles. There is also a steering system that can be raised or lowered with one hand.

In the manufacture of durable and strong polyethylene LLDPE, produced by rotational molding. It is not afraid of chemical and mechanical influences, as well as ultraviolet radiation, which makes it possible for the kayak to be constantly outdoors.

You can order a model with a skirt.

The average price is 51,900 rubles.

• high quality;
• durability;
• practicality;
• lightness;
• excellent functionality.

Disadvantages:

• absent.

RST Twist

This two-seater vessel with an elongated hull has 2 pressurized compartments, and on the deck there is a bandage. It is designed for long journeys on seas, lakes and rivers. In the manufacture used shock-resistant material with UV stabilization. With constant exposure to the sun, its characteristics do not deteriorate. The fasteners and metal parts are made of stainless steel, which makes it possible to use the structure for long fishing in salt sea water and expeditions.

There are also handlebars and heel stops. Kayakers sit on comfortable seats. This model is available in different colors. The sealed hatches are made of plastic, which allows anglers to store their catch in them, while the plastic does not absorb the smell of fish. After fishing, it is enough to rinse the kayak with clean fresh water.

The average cost is 53,800 rubles.

• convenient control;
• high assembly reliability;
• long service life;
• easy to care for;
• develops high speed;
• excellent exchange rate stability;
• large displacement;
• you can load a significant number of things;
• suitable for long expeditions;
• one-year manufacturer's warranty;
• service maintenance;
• complete with a bandage cord and carrying handles.

• not detected.

RST Phantom

This marine specimen is also called sjak. It has a unique shape, somewhat reminiscent of the ancient boats of the peoples of the Far North, which they used for hunting. Distinctive characteristics: an elongated body, attractive appearance and incredible features.They are rarely found on the free market, but connoisseurs of beauty prefer to contemplate the beauty of lakes, rivers and seas from these structures.

The single-seat model is available for both short-term and long-term water walks. These models can often be found in rental at tourist camps and holiday homes. They are suitable for those who like fishing, as they have places for attaching rods and other tackle. The deck is very low, which makes using the kayak comfortable for both short and tall people.

The presence of the rudder and heel stops makes it possible to conveniently control the boat, and thanks to the skirt, water does not get inside, which is very helpful in bad weather. You can store the kayak outdoors. The stainless steel, from which the fasteners and some parts are made, are not afraid of sea water.

The average price is 50,400 rubles.

• unique design;
• high speed;
• excellent course stability;
• versatility;
• The optimum ratio of price and quality;
• good equipment;
• comfort of use;
• convenient control;
• the presence of luggage compartments with sealed covers;
• safety of movement in any weather;
• the use of innovative technologies in the manufacture;
• the use of chemically inert and frost-resistant material in production;
• long service life;
• high strength;
• unpretentious care;
• resistance to ultraviolet radiation;
• the possibility of storage in an unheated room during the winter;
• in case of minor damage, you can repair it yourself with the presence of special materials and tools.

• not detected.

Riviera

This plastic watercraft is suitable for fishing and family recreation on calm waters. It features large dimensions, convenient storage space for things and tools, as well as the presence of holders for rods. There are 2 adults and 1 child's seat, which allows the whole family to rest comfortably and safely spend time admiring the seascapes. Thanks to the two-layer body, this design is almost impossible to sink.

In the manufacture, shock-resistant material is used that is not afraid of ultraviolet radiation. Fasteners and metal parts are made of stainless steel, so they are resistant to salt water. The set includes 8 rubber stoppers, 2 soft seats with backs, a carrying handle, a cord, as well as holders for oars and fishing rods.

The product can be purchased both in the manufacturer's brand store and ordered online.

The average price is 40,800 rubles.

• many things can be stored;
• there are mounts for fishing rods;
• quality materials were used in the manufacture;
• easy to use;
• high assembly reliability;
• good course stability;
• excellent lateral stability;
• the possibility of storage in open space;
• there is a one-year warranty period.

• absent.

For alloy

Dragorossi Mad Boy, ID: 14801

This is not to say that the design of this boat is quite simple. Despite the fact that it is called a river, it copes well with both full-flowing rivers and rapids, rocky shallow waters. The manufacturer did its best to create a design with excellent characteristics. Only three years later, the developers managed to improve the design beyond recognition, bringing it to an exemplary ideal. The model is suitable both for rafting on rough rapids rivers, and for walks in spacious spills. You can even jump off a small waterfall with it.

The vessel perceives the slightest movements, can go through the narrowest places, and also make turns and traverses of the jet without visible problems. It tops the list of the best cricking kayaks.

The average price is 73,000 rubles.

• excellent cross-country ability;
• excellent maneuverability;
• high assembly reliability;
• unique design;
• light weight (only 20 kg);
• you can perform any feints;
• made of high quality materials.

• not detected.

Rainbov Vector, ID: 14798

This one-seater boat weighs only 18 kg and is widely used by thrill-seekers. It is suitable for rafting on rough rivers, for extreme sports, freestyle and long hikes. The model differs from analogues by a soft adjustable seat with special pads for the thighs, comfortable knee rests, a removable partition, carrying handles and water drain plugs.

The manufacturer regularly provides discounts.

The average price is 87,000 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• durability;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• made of quality materials.

• overpriced, according to users, the price.

For hunting and fishing

Dave - PRO

This is a great fishing model, complete with trolley seat, holder and paddle. Despite its rigidity, the frame seat is light and comfortable enough. It fastens with two straps. Onshore design easily converts into a kayak trolley. Steering, built-in and swivel rod holders, and an anchor system are provided. The product weighs 30 kg and has a maximum load capacity of 158 kg.

The average price is 41,500 rubles.

• easy to operate;
• practical;
• there is a transforming cart;
• a good combination of price and quality;
• available in sand, camouflage and yellow shades;
• optimal carrying capacity;
• high assembly reliability;
• long service life.

• not identified.

RST Orion

This model belongs to the open type and is produced exclusively in camouflage color. Steering and an ergonomic body kit are provided. The manufacturer also equipped the structure with 2 compartments:

1. Located on the bow of the kayak and equipped with a lockable lid.
2. Equipped at the stern and has bandage straps for securing loads.

There are large and comfortable handles on the sides as well as on the bow of the boat. There is a wide wheel in the bow, which makes it quick and easy to get the kayak out of the water. On the water surface, these elements are used as an additional keel. The device is equipped with a self-draining system - 8 holes closed with rubber plugs.

The kayak is used by avid duck hunters as it handles any difficult terrain. He is not afraid of the reed zone, where an ordinary "rubber band" will not be able to pass, and glass, nails, driftwood and sharp stones will not cause him any mechanical damage. Due to its unique color, the vessel is almost invisible in the reeds. The nose rack is equipped with a closable streamline lid, which is used for support during shooting from a prone position. The hunters put the shot game in it.

Thanks to the large handles at the stern and bow, the structure is easily removed from the water, and the steering wheel and heel rests are provided for convenient control. On the sides there are paddle banding holders.

The average cost is 33,500 rubles.

• unsinkable thanks to a two-layer hull;
• high assembly reliability;
• versatility;
• suitable for hunters due to stealth;
• not exposed to mechanical damage;
• inexpensive;
• comfortable to use;
• made of materials with UV stabilization;
• metal parts are made of stainless steel;
• not afraid of sea water.

• absent.

Jackson big tuna

This model belongs to the category of double and is widely used for fishing, for which the manufacturer has provided a compartment where it is convenient to store the catch. Its main feature is the direct circulation of water, which makes it possible for both fish and bait to remain fresh for a long time. Built-in comfort seats rotate 180 degrees. The design also features footrests, a sealed compartment and closable seat pockets. The kayak is sold complete with rod holders, landing net, swivel and oar holders.

The average price is 170,000 rubles.

• high speed;
• sustainability;
• functionality;
• comfortable operation;
• long service life.

• overpriced, according to buyers, the price.

Conclusion

Fans of active pastime know how difficult it is to choose exactly that model, thanks to which you can amazingly spend time with your family on a calm water surface, go fishing, hunt or test yourself for strength of character, overcoming the rapids of rough rivers. Online markets offer many options: kayak-boat or board, pedal or paddle type, differing in weight, carrying capacity, functionality and cost. The main thing is not to make mistakes when choosing.