Kayak Buying Guide
Whether you're paddling through serene lakes, coastal waters, or river rapids, the right kayak makes all the difference. At Scuba.com, we carry a wide range of inflatable, rigid, and foldable kayaks for every type of paddler—from casual explorers to serious water enthusiasts. Here's what to consider when shopping for a kayak.
Top Rated Kayaks
Types of Kayaks
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks are the go-to choice for beginners and casual paddlers who enjoy calm water environments like lakes, bays, and slow-moving rivers. These kayaks prioritize comfort, ease of use, and stability, making them ideal for short, relaxed outings or family paddling sessions. They typically feature a wide beam for increased balance and an open cockpit design for easy entry and exit. Available in both inflatable and rigid styles, recreational kayaks don’t require advanced skills to maneuver and are great for anyone just getting started.
Recommended for: Casual paddling, weekend outings, beginners, kids and families.
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Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are built for longer distances and open water, whether you're crossing a wide lake, paddling along the coastline, or embarking on a multi-day trip. These kayaks are longer and narrower than recreational models, allowing for greater efficiency, speed, and tracking in wind or current. Rigid touring kayaks often include features like dry hatches, bulkheads, and rudders or skegs for better control and storage. Inflatable touring models offer similar advantages while packing down for easy transport. These kayaks strike the perfect balance between adventure and performance.
Recommended for: Long-distance paddling, ocean touring, fitness paddling, and kayak camping.
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Whitewater Kayaks
Whitewater kayaks are purpose-built for maneuverability, responsiveness, and safety in turbulent river conditions. These shorter, more compact boats allow you to navigate through rapids, surf waves, and dodge obstacles with precision. Whether you choose a rigid playboat or a reinforced inflatable whitewater kayak, these models are designed to handle impact and drain quickly. Inflatable whitewater kayaks are a popular choice for paddlers who want durability and packability, while hard-shell designs offer sharper control for experienced river runners.
Recommended for: Class II–IV whitewater, river surfing, creeking, and intermediate to advanced paddlers.
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Pack Rafts
Pack rafts are the ultimate tool for adventurers who venture off the beaten path. These ultralight, highly portable inflatable boats are designed to roll up and fit in your backpack, making them ideal for crossing rivers, paddling alpine lakes, or exploring remote areas inaccessible by road. Despite their compact size, modern pack rafts are made with rugged materials and feature welded seams, spray decks, and gear tie-downs for serious wilderness travel.
Recommended for: Backpackers, hikers, remote lake paddling, river crossings, and alpine adventure travel.
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Fishing Kayaks
Fishing kayaks are equipped with everything anglers need for a successful day on the water—rod holders, gear mounts, extra storage, and stable platforms for casting. Most are sit-on-top kayaks, allowing for freedom of movement and easy access to gear. Both rigid and inflatable options are available, with the inflatables offering exceptional portability and ruggedness, and rigid models providing enhanced durability and rigidity for standing and reeling in bigger catches.
Recommended for: Freshwater and inshore saltwater fishing, anglers who value stability and customization.
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Crossover Kayaks
Crossover kayaks blend the best capabilities of multiple kayak types—offering a versatile, do-it-all experience for paddlers who enjoy both flat water and moving water. These mid-length boats (typically 10–12 feet) combine moderate rocker for quick turns and a waterline designed for speed and tracking. Most have adjustable skegs or rudders, tight cockpit outfitting, and sufficient storage for short trips.
