Advice we’d give to a friend

The Basics

How do they actually perform in the water? - We initially thought that these kayaks wouldn't perform as well as typical hard shell kayaks, but it turns out that some of them actually do. This is primarily true for the more expensive versions, so it is not surprising that some of the more affordable types are slower and less durable.

Will inflatable kayaks puncture or fall apart? - No. High-quality inflatable kayaks are incredibly durable; some even use materials with a density of 1,000 denier, which are identical to those used in rescue boats. We think it's best to avoid less costly models because they might be made from materials used in pool toys.

Is setup difficult on inflatable kayaks? - The speed of setup and pack down varies greatly depending on the kayak. Some, like the foldable kayak types or inflatables with only three inflation points, were much simpler to set up. Others, like AdvancedElements, have several inflation points — seven to ten depending on the model — and take a long time to dry, which we found to be a bit tedious.

Should I get an inflatable kayak? - Yes. In addition to the obvious storage advantages, they actually offer up new avenues for wilderness exploration. A decent transportable kayak is something you'll get good use out of because they are so portable and handle well on the water.

How long do inflatable kayaks last? - We didn’t notice any problems with durability, and we believe they will survive for many years. The highest-rated kayaks are well-built and made of high-quality materials. You cannot say the same about some of the less expensive models; with those, you get what you pay for. Longevity will increase with proper maintenance.

Budget

Price is often important when it comes to inflatable kayaks and foldable kayaks. Even though there will always be exceptions, at the time of writing, we could divide the market into three groups:

Over $1,600 - You can usually find a great kayak for this price that is well-made and will function well on the water.

$1000 to $1,600 - These kayaks are still sturdy, but they'll often go through the water more slowly and bulkily than some of the more expensive versions.

Under $1000 - These kayaks tend to be poorly constructed, consisting of flimsy materials that may puncture, or are so slow in the water that they are uncomfortable to paddle. We advise you to spend a little more money to avoid making a regrettable purchase.

How will you use your kayak?

It is recommended to spend the money on something in the $1,600+ range if you're looking for something to use for regular training or touring on multi-day vacations. The kayaks in the $1000 to $1,600 range often offer a little bit more space and will be more durable than cheaper versions if it's just for leisure activities like fishing, kayaking with the family dog or taking the kids for some water adventures.

Pure 2-Person vs. 1–2-Person Convertible Kayaks

Pure 2-person kayaks are made just for two individuals to paddle together, providing an enjoyable, communal experience. Can a two-person inflatable kayak be used by one person? Yes. There are 1–2-person convertible kayaks that can be altered to fit one person for a roomier ride or two people for a snug tandem adventure or a voyage through more treacherous waters.

Take notice of the length if you're thinking of a 1–2 or even a 2–3-person convertible kayak. A kayak will be unpleasant for two or more people if it is excessively short. To ensure that you won't be crowded, look for kayaks that are at least 425cm length.

Considerations for Australian Conditions

When you’re picking a 2-person inflatable kayak for Australia, there are a few extra things to think about to make sure it lasts, performs well and stays safe:

• Sun and UV damage - The Aussie sun is no joke, with even the toughest kayaks starting to degrade if left out too long. Look for models with UV-protected material, and whenever you can, store your kayak in the shade or indoors. A quick spray of UV protectant now and then can go a long way.

• Saltwater vs freshwater - If you’re planning to paddle in the ocean, make sure to give your kayak a good rinse with fresh water afterwards. Salt can be harsh on materials and fittings, so this simple step will keep your kayak in shape for years. Some kayaks handle saltwater better than others, so check what your model is rated for.

• Storage and transport - 2-person kayaks are bigger than solo ones, so think about where you’ll store it and how you’ll get it to the water. Make sure it fits in your car or garage and look for ones that come with a handy carry bag or backpack for easier transport.

• Warranty and repairs - Buying from brands with local distributors is a huge plus. It makes getting replacement parts or claiming a warranty way easier. Having a repair kit or access to local repairs can save a lot of stress if you hit a snag on a multi-day trip.

• Drying and humidity - We Aussies know that our summers can be hot and humid, which means kayaks can get damp fast. Always make sure your kayak is completely dry before packing it away, and store it somewhere cool and ventilated to prevent mildew

• Rivers, lakes, and coasts - Depending on where you’re paddling, you might hit wind, waves, or currents. Look for kayaks that are stable and well-built so you can handle Australia’s rivers, lakes and coastal conditions safely and comfortably.

Safety Checklist

• Wear a Type 1, 2, or 3 PFD (Personal Flotation Device) - In all Australian states, wearing a PFD is mandatory when kayaking in most circumstances. Make sure your PFD is appropriately sized and in good condition.

• Equip Yourself with Essential Safety Gear - Certain gear can help you be prepared for an emergency, such as a 15m tow rope, a manual bilge pump, sponge and deck lines. Include a repair kit with patches and adhesive suitable for your kayak's material. Find more examples by Transport WA.

• Stay Informed and Prepared - Check weather forecasts before heading out and let someone know about your trip and expected return time.

Ratings By Category

Method

We have a methodology that aids in our analysis and understanding of each kayak’s attributes. Following a market analysis, we select from a variety of stores what we believe to be the best inflatable kayak in each category. Every product is given a 50-point starting score. In order to grade them on a scale of 1 to 10 in categories like Performance, Construction, Setup/Pack Down, Portability and Comfort, we then perform field tests and hands-on evaluations.

We modify ranks based on significance and degree of variance to maintain fairness. For instance, while some categories may use a range like 4 to 9, some may use a range like 1 to 10, with occasional outliers. Our goal is to provide a concise and accurate description of how we rank each kayak and the factors that went into that decision.

We want to provide you with all the knowledge you need if you're looking for an inflatable kayak in Australia. Whether you're looking for the best all-around kayak or a kayak designed for a particular purpose, we think a thorough inflatable kayak review can help you make an informed choice.

Testing Methodology

All the tandem inflatable kayaks we review are tested hands-on by two paddlers in real Australian paddling conditions. Once on the water, each model goes through a detailed setup and inspection phase where we check its build quality, valve integrity, seam strength and how easy it is for two people to inflate, deflate and pack down. We also measure the kayak's weight, inflated dimensions and packed size to confirm they match the manufacturer’s claims.

Then, we take the tandem kayaks out for a series of performance trials designed for two paddlers. This includes testing speed over distance with both people paddling, how well the kayak tracks in calm conditions and against typical Australian winds and its maneuverability for navigating tight spots. We test its stability with two adults and a load of gear, and how comfortable the seating is for both occupants over longer paddles. We also test how the kayak handles at different load levels and in mild chop to simulate conditions found in Australian harbours, bays and estuaries.

Finally, we assess the long-term durability and usability of the two-person inflatable kayak by repeating inflation and deflation, inspecting for wear after use on typical Australian launch surfaces like sand, boat ramps and rocky shores. We also specifically test how portable it is for two people to carry from the car to the water's edge. Scores across these areas are then weighted into our category ratings, so the overall ranking reflects not just specs on paper, but how the kayak performs for a duo in practice.

Want the full breakdown of our testing process? Click the drop-downs below to learn about our detailed methodology.

Construction

Durability, design, high-quality materials, and craftsmanship are the four basic components of construction.

The distinction between the more affordable and pricier brands is very obvious here. For instance, the Intex Challenger K2 and Explorer K2 are constructed from vinyl akin to that used in pool toys, making them more vulnerable to piercing by sticks and rocks. For longevity and stability, high-end manufacturers like Razor and Advanced Elements use much tougher PVC materials with Tech-Stitch construction.

About Our Testing Process

At The Equipment Guide, we write reviews in Australia to provide honest, in-depth assessments of the best goods on the market. To help you make wise decisions and better understand your options, our method incorporates extensive study, including field experiments.

All products are carefully reviewed and ranked by us based on their evaluation of essential aspects. We do not accept free products from manufacturers.

Our mission is simple: To create Australia’s best outdoor gear reviews.

Afterword

We hope this has helped you to decide what is the best inflatable kayak Australia has to offer!

This has been created in a way that will benefit people looking for the best fishing kayaks, the best inflatable kayak reviews or even the greatest kayaks overall. If you have any feedback or you would like us to review a product we’d love to hear from you, feel free to reach out.

If you do purchase and are out in your inflatable kayak Australia, please share some pics with us — we’d love to see you in action!