If you are a recreational kayaker, an inflatable kayak makes a lot more sense than a traditional kayak.
Inflatables are great because you don’t have to transport them in a truck bed or on top of your vehicle. They can deflate and zip up into a compact bag or carrying case to fit right in the trunk of a sedan or SUV.
Inflatable kayaks are also a good choice if you don’t have a ton of storage space for kayaks at your house.
While you might benefit from hanging your kayak to dry once you get home, you won’t have to build an outdoor kayak storage shed just to keep it protected from the elements year-round.
Today, we are going to talk about some of the best inflatable kayaks available in Canada. Along with that, we’ll also share useful tips on picking the right kayak for your needs and paddling preferences.
Photo by marekuliasz via Shutterstock
Who This Guide Is For?
This guide will help Canadian recreational paddlers, beginners, and cottage-goers who want a portable kayak that fits in a car trunk and stores in a closet.
It is also useful for couples, casual anglers, and anyone without roof racks or dedicated kayak storage space.
How We Chose These Recommendations?
We considered the following parameters:
- Weight capacity: The kayak must safely support the combined weight of paddlers, gear, dogs, and any fishing equipment you bring along.
- Inflation pressure and rigidity: Higher-pressure chambers create a stiffer hull that tracks straighter and handles rougher water more confidently.
- Packed size and portability: Deflated dimensions determine whether the kayak actually fits in your trunk, closet, or apartment storage locker.
- Solo versus tandem flexibility: Convertible seating lets one hull serve both solo outings and paddles with a partner or child.
- Included accessories: Bundled paddles, pumps, skegs, and repair kits reduce how much extra gear beginners must buy separately.
- Canadian availability: Every model listed can be ordered through retailers that ship to Canadian addresses without cross-border hassle.
Are There Any Limitations of Inflatable Kayaks?
You should keep the following things in mind.
- Inflatable kayaks generally track and glide worse than comparably priced hardshell kayaks.
- You must budget time to inflate, deflate, rinse, and fully dry the kayak after every outing.
- Lower-priced models often include basic paddles and pumps that many paddlers eventually upgrade.
- PVC hulls can degrade faster if the kayak is stored wet or left in direct sunlight for long periods.
Best Inflatable Kayaks In Canada
- Aquaglide Noyo 90
- Intex Excursion Pro K2
- Sevylor Quikpak K1
- Intex Challenger K1
- Hydro-Force Cove Champion
- Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak
- Aquaglide Navarro 110
- Intex Excursion Pro K1
- Sea Eagle 370 Pro
- Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
- Intex Tacoma K2
- Intex Challenger K2
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
- Advanced Elements Lagoon 1
- Intex Explorer K2
Inflatable Kayak Buying Guide
Photo by clearviewstock via Shutterstock
When you are buying an inflatable kayak, you will need to think about a few different factors than a regular kayak. In addition to considering the best time of year to buy a kayak, here are a few ideas to consider when comparing inflatable kayaks.
How Much Air Does the Kayak Hold?
This consideration is more about air pressure than the actual volume of the air held inside the kayak. Kayaks that can inflate to a higher pressure tend to be more rigid and durable, which allows for more rugged use.
If you like to kayak with a dog or do a lot of whitewater kayaking, you need a model that inflates to a higher pressure. If recreational kayaking is your thing, you’ll be fine with a kayak that inflates to a pressure of one pound per square inch (PSI).
Does the Kayak Come with a Removable Skeg?
Most regular kayaks are designed to cut through the water efficiently and track straight. The most efficient kayak hull design tends to be the deep V-shaped hull because it minimizes the amount of zig-zagging your kayak will do as you paddle.
Unlike a rowboat, kayaking requires that you paddle on a single side at a time. With inflatable kayaks, this often causes the bow of your kayak to respond more strongly than you might like to these paddle strokes.
This can make it feel frustratingly like you are weaving through the water and can’t keep your kayak pointed where you want it to point. On inflatable kayaks, the solution to this issue is a removable skeg that attaches to the hull at the stern.
In our opinion, it is worth spending a little extra to get an inflatable kayak that comes with a removable skeg. In the best case, you can find a model that comes with two skegs to help you adapt to shallow and deep water paddling.
Can It Transition for Solo or Tandem Paddling?
If you know you are going to be paddling solo, there is no reason to bog yourself down with a larger inflatable kayak. If you occasionally paddle with a friend or partner, however, you will want a second seat and extra cockpit space.
Most two-person inflatable kayaks can be adapted to be paddling by one person. They allow you to remove one seat and then re-position the second to a more central location for more efficient paddling.
If you think there is even a remote possibility of paddling with one or two paddlers, we would recommend grabbing a tandem inflatable kayak that can be converted for solo paddling.
What Kind of Paddling Accessories Does it Come With?
The cool part about many inflatable kayaks is that they come with a lot of the paddling “extras” that beginners need to get started. This is in stark contrast to most traditional recreational kayaks that require you to purchase all of your extras separately.
This includes things like paddles, kayak seats, dry bags, repair kits, hand or foot-operated pumps, and more. Not all inflatable kayaks come with all of these add-ons, but you should evaluate the entire package when you are comparing models.
Like most sports, kayakers know all too well how easy it is to keep accumulating loads of gear once you get hooked on the sport. When you are starting out, however, it helps to choose an inflatable kayak that comes with nearly everything you need to get right out on the water.
Reviews of Inflatable Kayaks in Canada
1. Aquaglide Noyo 90
- Length: 2.74 meters (9 feet)
- Width: 88.9 cm (35”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 9.5 kilograms (21 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 113.4 kilograms (250 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 60.33 cm x 51.44 cm x 26.67 cm (23.75” x 20.25” x 10.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 5 minutes
The Aquaglide Noyo 90 is a one-person enclosed inflatable kayak that is great for paddling in adverse weather conditions.
It is one of the few inflatable kayak models that features an enclosed cockpit to keep you warmer and drier when the weather isn’t at its best.
It also features enclosed storage areas at the bow and stern that are accessible via zippered openings. In addition, there is ample bungee rigging at the bow that allows you to secure kayaking sandals or attach a kayaking deck bag.
2. Intex Excursion Pro K2
- Length: 3.84 meters (12’7”)
- Width: 93.98 cm (37”)
- Depth: 45.72 cm (18”)
- Weight: 17.69 kilograms (39.01 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 66.04 cm x 48.26 cm x 48.26 cm (26” x 19” x 19”)
- Average Inflation Time: 10-15 minutes
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 is the best tandem kayak on our list for couples that are into kayak fishing.
It includes fishing rod holders, integrated footrests for easier casting, and a few other fishing-specific features.
The longer dimensions of this kayak also provide extra storage space for things like a kayak cooler or tackle crate. If you need versatility, this kayak also allows you to remove one of the seats to set it up for a single paddler.
3. Sevylor Quikpak K1
- Length: 2.64 meters (8’8”)
- Width: 91.44 cm (36”)
- Depth: 59.7 cm (23.5”)
- Weight: 8.16 kilograms (18 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 78.49 cm x 43.94 cm x 24.13 cm (30.9” x 17.3” x 9.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 5 minutes
The Sevylor Quikpak K1 fits a single paddler and is one of the most transportable inflatable kayaks out there.
It even packs up into a backpack-style carrying case so that you can hike it into more remote lakes or launch several miles upstream from your favorite trailhead.
It is designed with multiple footrest positions to accommodate paddlers of varying heights and also includes multiple air chambers to prevent you from sinking if one chamber is compromised.
The Quikpak kayak also features a durable tarpaulin bottom to provide extra protection against punctures and abrasions.
4. Intex Challenger K1
- Length: 2.74 meters (9 feet)
- Width: 76.2 cm (30”)
- Depth: 33 cm (13”)
- Weight: 10.84 kilograms (23.9 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 58.75 cm x 41.28 cm x 21.59 cm (23.13” x 16.25” x 8.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 4 minutes
The Intex Challenger K1 is another great solo kayak for beginners. It takes less than five minutes to inflate and features an enclosed cockpit that provides extra protection from rain or splashing water.
This kayak features a bungee storage area on the bow that makes it easy to secure the kayaking gear that you don’t mind getting wet.
It also boasts a multi-chambered design that provides added flotation if a single chamber accidentally becomes compromised due to a heavy impact or scrape.
5. Hydro-Force Cove Champion
- Length: 2.75 meters (9 feet)
- Width: 81 cm (31.89”)
- Depth: 45.01 cm (17.72”)
- Weight: 8.64 kilograms (19.05 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 75 cm x 65 cm x 25 cm (29.53” x 25.59” x 9.84”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 8 minutes
The Hydro-Force Cove Champion is another inflatable kayak designed for solo use and it also happens to be one of the most affordable kayaks on our list.
It is great for recreational paddling or lounging on the lake on a hot summer day.
That said, it does feature bungee rigging for deck gear storage and an anchor line for attaching to other kayaks or dropping an anchor.
If you are looking for an inflatable kayak that can handle casual lake days or class I river floats, this is a great affordable option.
6. Sevylor Fiji 2-Person Kayak
- Length: 3.17 meters (10’4”)
- Width: 83.82 cm (33”)
- Depth: 90.17 cm (35.5”)
- Weight: 10.8 kilograms (23.81 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: Unknown
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
The Sevylor Fiji kayak is a budget-friendly option for two paddlers. It is constructed with 22-gauge PVC material and it is made for recreational paddling on lakes, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal bays.
This tandem kayak comes with only one collapsible paddle, but it does include two inflatable kayak seats.
It also features double-locking valves for easier inflation and deflation without losing air pressure when you don’t want to.
- Length: 3.45 meters (11’4”)
- Width: 86.36 cm (34”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 17 kilograms (37.48 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 113.4 kilograms (250 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 62.23 cm x 57.15 cm x 27.94 cm (24.5” x 22.5”x 11”)
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
The Aquaglide Navarro 110 is the big brother to the Noyo 90 kayak that we mentioned above. IT is slightly longer, which lends itself well to longer-distance paddles even though it is still only suited to a single paddler.
The Navarro 110 still boasts many great comfort features that you won’t find on other inflatable kayaks.
That includes a quick-release fin, a drain valve in the cockpit, a footrest adjustment system, accessory straps, a paddle keeper, and molded handles for easier transportation.
8. Intex Excursion Pro K1
- Length: 3.05 meters (10 feet)
- Width: 91.44 cm (36”)
- Depth: 45.72 cm (18”)
- Weight: 15.4 kilograms (33.95 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 58.12 cm x 50.17 cm x 31.75 cm (22.88” x 19.75” x 12.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: 7-8 minutes
The Intex Excursion Pro K1 is the little cousin of the K2 model we mentioned above. Its smaller dimensions make it easier for single paddlers to handle, but it still boasts all of the fishing-specific features that make the Excursion Pro so attractive to kayak anglers.
This inflatable kayak comes with two removable skegs that allow you to maintain tracking ability in shallow and deep water.
It also comes with an adjustable GoPro and phone mount and a removable mounting bracket for securing additional kayak fishing accessories.
9. Sea Eagle 370 Pro
- Length: 3.81 meters (12’6”)
- Width: 86.36 cm (34”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 14.52 kilograms (32 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 294.84 kilograms (650 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 78.74 cm x 48.26 cm x 20.32 cm (31” x 19” x 8”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 8 minutes
The Sea Eagle 370 Pro is a great tandem inflatable kayak for recreational paddling and gentle whitewater adventures.
It is one of the best inflatable kayaks for whitewater paddling and it is rated for up to class III whitewater rapids.
The 370 Pro features inflatable I-beam construction that allows the floor to retain more rigidity than other inflatables. It is also made from 38-millimeter PolyKrylar material with high-frequency welded seams for added durability.
This kayak also offers one of the highest maximum weight capacities of any of the models on our list. That makes it ideally suited for carrying a third human passenger, kayaking with a furry paddle companion, or packing for an overnight kayak camping trip.
10. Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
- Length: 2.74 meters (12’3”)
- Width: 88.9 cm (37”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 9.5 kilograms (41 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 113.4 kilograms (490 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 60.96 cm x 45.72 cm x 25.4 cm (24” x 18” x 10”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 5 minutes
Although the Sea Eagle technically has a higher weight capacity, the Sevylor Big Basin kayak is the only one on our list that advertises a three-person carrying capacity. It features heavy-duty PVC construction and is bolstered with a reinforced tarpaulin bottom.
The Boston valves it is equipped with make it easier to inflate without losing air pressure and the airtight system is guaranteed not to leak once it is filled.
It also boasts multiple air chambers so that it retains buoyancy if a single chamber is compromised.
11. Intex Tacoma K2
- Length: 3.2 meters (10’6)
- Width: 91.44 cm (36”)
- Depth: 50.8 cm (20”)
- Weight: 16.7 kilograms (36.82 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 58.75 cm x 41.28 cm x 34.29 cm (23.13” x 16.25” x 13.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
The Intex Tacoma K2 is another affordable two-person kayak that is quick to set up and easy to paddle. It comes as part of a full package that includes two collapsible kayak paddles, a high-output hand pump, and a compact carrying bag.
The Tacoma K2 is made with an inflatable I-beam floor to improve its overall rigidity and puncture-resistant vinyl material for the body.
Like many of its competitors, it is made with Boston valves for leak-proof inflation and multiple air chambers for buoyancy retention.
12. Intex Challenger K2
- Length: 3.54 meters (11.6”)
- Width: 76.2 cm (30”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 17.3 kilograms (38.14 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 63.5 cm x 43.18 cm x 24.13 cm (25” x 17” x 9.5”)
- Average Inflation Time: About 5 minutes
The Intex Challenger K2 is the two-person upgrade for folks that like the Challenger K1 but need additional carrying capacity.
It essentially features the exact same design but includes an elongated cockpit to provide extra legroom for two paddlers.
With the removable tracking skeg on the hull, this kayak offers decent tracking ability. That being said, it is primarily designed for short-distance paddling on calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and protected coastal waterways.
13. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
- Length: 3.32 meters (10’9”)
- Width: 100 cm (39.6”)
- Depth: 38.1 cm (15”)
- Weight: 17.1 kilograms (37.7 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 213.18 kilograms (470 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 60.96 cm x 91.44 cm (24” x 36”)
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
Aside from the Intex Excursion Pro kayaks, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is the best option on our list for kayak anglers. It is reinforced with an 840-denier nylon cover to protect it from punctures when you are casting sharp hooks or running aground on jagged coastlines.
It also features a 100-denier tarpaulin bottom and multiple quick-set fishing rod holders for hands-free fishing. The two kayak seats in this model simply clip into place to reduce setup time and there are also multiple mesh pockets for easy fishing gear storage.
It also happens to be one of the only kayaks on our list that can handle an external trolling motor. So if you think you might want to mount an electric motor to your inflatable kayak one day, this is your best bet.
14. Advanced Elements Lagoon 1
- Length: 2.54 meters (8’4”)
- Width: 86.36 cm (34”)
- Depth: Unknown
- Weight: 10.43 kilograms (23 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 113.4 kilograms (250 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 73.66 cm x 45.72 cm x 12.7 cm (29” x 18” x 5”)
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
The Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 kayak is one of the higher-performing sit-inside style inflatable kayaks you will find. It offers reasonable weight capacity and is best suited for kayakers under 6’2” in height.
This kayak handles class II whitewater, but it is best designed for calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
The landing plate and tracking fin designed on this kayak’s hull help to improve its tracking ability and overall performance on the water.
15. Intex Explorer K2
- Length: 3.12 meters (10’3”)
- Width: 91.44 cm (36”)
- Depth: 50.8 cm (20”)
- Weight: 13.88 kilograms (30.6 pounds)
- Weight Capacity: 181.44 kilograms (400 pounds)
- Deflated Dimensions: 59.8 cm x 42.3 cm x 35.5 cm (23.54” x 16.65” x 13.98”)
- Average Inflation Time: 5-10 minutes
The Intex Explorer K2 kayak is essentially the exact same design and build as the Tacoma K2.
The main advantage of this kayak is the added visibility that comes with its bright yellow coloring, which makes it a great choice for locations that experience heavy fog.
FAQs
Are inflatable kayaks safe to use on Canadian lakes?
Yes, quality inflatables with multiple air chambers are safe for calm lakes and slow rivers when used as intended. Always wear a properly fitted PFD, which is required under Canadian boating regulations, and check the weather before launching.
How long does an inflatable kayak typically last?
With proper care, a well-made inflatable kayak can last five to ten years or more. Rinsing after use, drying it completely before storage, and keeping it out of prolonged direct sunlight all extend its lifespan.
Can I use an inflatable kayak in cold Canadian water?
You can, but cold water adds real risk, so dress for immersion rather than air temperature and consider a wetsuit or drysuit. Enclosed-cockpit models like the Aquaglide Noyo 90 also help keep you drier during shoulder-season paddles.
Do inflatable kayaks puncture easily on rocks or branches?
Modern inflatables use tough PVC or tarpaulin materials that resist punctures from typical bumps and scrapes. Most include repair kits, and multi-chamber designs keep you afloat even if one chamber loses air.
What size inflatable kayak do I need?
Match the kayak’s weight capacity to your body weight plus at least 20 to 30 percent extra for gear. Solo paddlers do well with 9 to 10 foot models, while tandems and fishing setups benefit from 12 feet or more.
Our Pick – Sea Eagle 370 Pro
Our pick for the best inflatable kayak in Canada is the Sea Eagle 370 Pro because it is a great all-around kayak for beginners and intermediate paddlers.
It is also one of the most complete inflatable kayak packages out there.
If you choose this kayak, you will only need to pick up a couple of kayaking life vests in order to get right out on the water.
Plus, it is easy to remove one of the kayak seats in this kayak to set it up for a single paddler if you can’t convince your paddling partner to join you!
Enjoyed 15 Best Inflatable Kayaks In Canada? Share it with your friends so they too can follow the Kayakhelp journey.