Advice we’d give to a friend

The Basics

How do they actually perform in the water? - Initially we thought when we started our inflatable kayak reviews there was no way these kayaks could perform as well as a conventional kayak. What we actually found is that the high end full drop stitch and foldable kayak models are just as good as many hard shell kayaks and in some cases they can actually outperform them.

Will they puncture or fall apart? - The short answer is NO! The best inflatable kayaks are incredibly durable, some being 1,000 denier (density) plus material. To put it into perspective similar materials are used in the rescue boats lifesavers use. They are highly puncture resistant and virtually unsinkable. In saying that some of the cheaper models e.g. Intex Challenger are made of more flimsy materials so we would avoid those if we were going on any serious adventuring.

How onerous is setup? - Typically setup and pack down is pretty quick but it really depends on the kayak. Some like AdvancedElements have multiple inflation points, 7+, and take a long time to dry which we found a bit tedious, but others such as the foldable kayak models or inflatables with around three inflation points were quite easy to set up.

Should I get an inflatable kayak? - Yes. Aside from the obvious storage benefits they really open up new doors to explore the wilderness. Given they are so portable and handle well in the water a good transportable kayak is something you’ll get good use out of.

How long do inflatable kayaks last? - We can’t see any issues with durability and think they will last for years without issue. The best kayaks in particular are made from quality materials and well constructed. The same can’t be said for some of the cheaper models and you will get what you pay for with them. Proper care will improve longevity.

Budget

When it comes to foldable kayaks and inflatable kayaks price does typically matter. There are always exceptions to the rule but at the time of writing we could break the market into three categories:

Over $1,200 - This will typically get you an excellent well crafted kayak that will perform well in the water.

$800 to $1,200 - These kayaks are still durable but will usually be a bit slower and bulkier in the water than some of the high end models.

Under $800 - We find kayaks in this range are either poorly crafted, made of cheap materials that will puncture or are so slow in the water it’s unpleasant to paddle. We suggest spending a bit more so you don’t buy something you’ll regret.

Think about how will you use it

If you are looking for something to use for regular exercise or touring on multi day trips it’s best to spend the money on getting something in the $1,200 + range. If it’s just for recreation, fishing or going kayaking with the dog or kids the kayaks in the $800 - $1,200 range typically have a bit more space and will be more durable than cheaper models.

Inflatable vs. Foldable Kayaks?

It’s hard to pick a winner. Inflatable kayaks are typically more stable and versatile but foldable kayaks can be smoother in the water and there is no need for a pump. Both have their merits - we tend to just slightly lean towards inflatable kayaks for the reason that if you capsize or otherwise manage to fill them with water, inflatable kayaks will still float where foldable kayaks will sink.

Considerations for Australian Conditions

When choosing a 1-person kayak in Australia, there are a few extra things to think about beyond the basics:

• UV resistance & sun damage - We know Australia’s sun is harsh. Even high-quality inflatable or foldable kayaks can degrade over time if left exposed, so look for models with UV-protected materials, or consider storing your kayak in a shaded area when not in use. Applying a UV-protectant spray occasionally can help extend the life of your kayak.

• Storage and transport - Many Australians drive smaller cars or have limited storage space. Inflatable kayaks pack down nicely, but even foldable kayaks can be bulky. Before buying, check the packed dimensions to make sure it will fit comfortably in your car or storage space at home.

• Local warranty and repair availability - Buying from brands that have Australian distributors is a big plus. It makes warranty claims easier and parts like pumps, replacement valves, or repair kits are readily available. If something goes wrong on a remote trip, having local support can save a lot of stress.

• Heat, humidity and wet storage - Australian conditions can be humid or very hot, especially in summer, so make sure your kayak dries fully before packing away to prevent mildew and store it in a cool, ventilated area.

• Accessibility for repairs - Even the best kayaks may need minor repairs after a long season. Having a kayak brand with local service centres or easily obtainable repair kits makes maintaining your kayak much simpler.

• Saltwater vs freshwater use - If you plan to paddle in the ocean, consider how saltwater will affect your kayak. Some kayaks handle saltwater better than others, so check manufacturer guidance for suitability.

Pro Tip: After a saltwater trip, rinse thoroughly with fresh water after every trip to avoid corrosion or fabric degradation.

These considerations will help you pick a kayak that lasts longer, performs better and is practical for Australian conditions, whether you’re exploring coastal bays, rivers, or inland lakes.

Safety Checklist

• Wear a Legal Lifejacket (PFD) - It's actually mandatory across all Australian states and territories. You can learn more on the NSW Government website.

• Check Local Safety Guidelines - Familiarise yourself with state-specific rules and safety equipment requirements. For detailed safety guidelines, check out Paddle Australia.

• Carry Essential Safety Gear - Always have a repair kit, spare paddle and a whistle with you when paddling.

Ratings By Category

Method

After reviewing the market we pick what we think will be the best kayaks in each category from a variety of retailers. Each product selected gets 50 points automatically just for being selected. We then perform field tests and in person assessments to rank them out of 10 on the following categories: Performance, Construction, Setup/ Pack Down, Portability and Comfort.

Rankings are adjusted or weighted based on importance and how much they vary e.g. some categories will be categorised from 1 to 10 whereas others 4 to 9 etc. but there are sometimes outliers as well. We have tried our best to paint an accurate picture of how we rate each kayak overall and why.

If you are looking for an Inflatable Kayak in Australia this is where we hope to provide you with all the info you need. We believe a good inflatable kayak review should provide you with all the info you need to decide, whether you are looking for the best fishing kayaks or outright best kayaks.

Construction

Construction looks at four main elements: durability, design, quality of materials and craftsmanship.

Our inflatable kayak reviews found this is a key area where you really see the difference between the cheaper brands and the more expensive ones. The Intex Challenger for instance is made from vinyl similar to that found in a pool toy which makes it more susceptible to puncture. Brands such as Advanced Elements and Razor Kayaks use much stronger materials which are are highly puncture resistant. The Advanced Elements Expedition Elite is a cleverly designed and well crafted kayak, whereas the Itiwit Cruising Kayak seems designed more with a cost focus than performance. If we are buying a kayak we want something well made that will last.

About Our Testing Process

Here at The Equipment Guide we write reviews for Australians with the goal of providing genuine personal assessments of the best products on the market right here at home. We do detailed research including field tests to make an informed judgment and help you get a better understanding of what is out there.

All products are reviewed and ranked in a methodical and careful manner and we assess them on relevant key features. 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!

We have designed this in a way so as to help those looking for the best kayaks, a specific inflatable kayak review or even the best fishing kayaks. If you have any feedback or you would like us to review a product we’d love to hear from you, feel free to drop us a note.

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!