Bote Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $2,798.00
Our Overall Rating | 73 out of 100
Pros - Comfortable, high-quality build
Cons - Like paddling a bus, heavy, long setup/pack down process
Overall - Best choice for recreational paddlers and anglers on calm water
Technical Specifications
Open Size - 381x90cm
Weight - 23kg
Load Capacity - 181kg
Packed Size - 104x48x33cm
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Bote Lono Aero is an inflatable kayak that aims to solve a common problem. Most inflatables are easy to transport but give up performance, while hard kayaks perform well but are heavy and hard to get to remote water. The Lono sits in the middle. It is a full-size, feature-rich inflatable fishing kayak that can be paddled, stood on, or upgraded with a pedal drive. It is designed for people who want to reach places cars, boats and even regular kayaks struggle to get to, without giving up stability or fishability once they arrive. It is not cheap and it does take time to set up, but it gives you a level of versatility that very few inflatables can match.
Performance (speed, tracking, manoeuvrability, stability, load handling): 5/10
Speed: Paddling performance is sturdy rather than fast, which is typical for a high-sided inflatable. With pedals fitted, the propeller drive adds speed and reduces fatigue on longer trips.
Tracking: At 381cm long, it tracks well for an inflatable, helped by a reinforced keel, multiple fins and a flared bow that cuts through chop better than expected. The pedal drive also improves tracking once it's fitted.
Stability: It is very stable, even when standing, thanks to its wide hull and stiff drop stitch construction.
Load Handling: Wind can push it around, especially from the side, but this improves significantly when using the pedal drive. With pedals fitted, the Lono becomes a genuinely capable fishing kayak, and while it does not match premium hard shell kayaks, it holds its own against many budget plastic kayaks.
Construction (materials, seams, valve quality, durability and fittings): 8/10
The Lono is built using Bote's Aero drop stitch technology across all main chambers, not just the floor. This allows the kayak to be inflated to high pressure, making it feel rigid underfoot and reducing flex while paddling or pedalling.
The material is thick, heavy-duty PVC with heat-sealed seams and overall durability is excellent. It's tough enough to drag across rough ground, bump into rocks or scrape over shallow areas without constant worry. While punctures are possible, they are uncommon and easy to patch if needed. The kayak also has a self-draining open stern, which helps shed water in chop or small rapids.
Setup/Pack Down (inflation time, valves, folding, and drying): 2/10
This is one of the main compromises of the Lono. Setup takes time. There are multiple chambers to inflate, including the hull, sidewalls, seat and rear deck. First-time setup can take around 30 minutes, and even once familiar, it is not a quick job, so a powered air pump is strongly recommended.
Rigging the rudder and pedal drive is straightforward, and the pedal unit drops into place through a dedicated port and secures with knobs. Switching to shallow water mode is quick and easy. Packdown takes longer than setup, especially if the kayak needs cleaning and drying, and folding everything neatly back into the bag can take practice and patience.
Portability (weight, packed size, ease of carrying): 1/10
Another major letdown for this kayak. Once deflated, the Lono packs down into a wheeled bag that fits into the back of most SUVs and many hatchbacks, but at around 23kg for the paddle version and closer to 40kg with the pedal drive installed, it's heavy.
Inflated, portability is a little easier, as the kayak can be dragged or lightly carted over sand, grass, mud and bush where hard kayaks would need heavy carts or multiple people. This makes it good for reaching off-grid launches and shallow backwaters.
Comfort (seat support, legroom, fatigue over distance): 7/10
Comfort is a standout feature, though. The inflatable bench seat is supportive and elevated, providing good visibility and a comfortable pedalling position, and it can be adjusted forward or back to suit leg length. The deck space is open and flat, allowing easy movement and confidence when standing.
The high sides also help keep the cockpit relatively dry in light chop, although they do contribute to wind sensitivity. Storage is generous for a single-person kayak, with bungee areas, stash pockets, and space for a cooler or bucket under the rear deck. While rod holders and accessories are mostly sold separately, the mounting systems are well thought out and flexible.
Value for money:
The Lono is not cheap and the setup and portability trade-offs are frustrating, but for what it offers in stability, fishability and the ability to reach water others can't, it earns its place as a unique and well-executed option for the right kind of paddler.
Best for:
Anglers and adventurers wanting to reach off-grid launches and shallow backwaters
Paddlers who want the option to paddle, pedal or stand
Fishing trips where stability and storage matter more than speed
Those willing to trade setup time and weight for versatility
People without space or means to transport a hard-shell fishing kayak
Overall:
The Bote Lono Aero is not a kayak for everyone. If you have space to store and transport a hard-shell fishing kayak, you may get better speed and convenience for the money, but if you value access, versatility and the ability to reach water others cannot, the Lono stands out. For anglers and adventurers who want one craft that can paddle, pedal, stand, pack down and go almost anywhere, the Bote Lono Aero is a unique and well-executed option worth serious consideration.
