10 Best Cheap Kayaks

The coexistence of man with the sea and rivers began thousands of years ago either for survival, transportation or trade. Sometimes he struggled. Sometimes he made great friendships. Sometimes friendship and struggle were intertwined during kayaking. The kayak is a long, narrow and lightweight treadmill that allows you to drive with a double-bladed paddle. It also expresses adventure, pleasure, peace and love for those who like kayaking.

Kayak has a long history earliest of them being dugouts. The most common societies using the kayak were the Vikings, the Indians, and the Eskimos. You may read more about the history of kayaks at the end of this review if you are interested. Materials and shapes of kayaks show differences between societies but the purpose is either to be used in sea, flat water or whitewater.

The kayaking is both a pleasure and an affordable sport. Those who like to spend time on the water can easily make the kayaking. There are shops selling sporting goods and cheap kayaks types on internet sites. You can purchase inflatable or fiber kayaks at affordable prices. Many users prefer fiber kayaks because they are lightweight. Inflatable kayaks are also light and not take up much space also many come with a special bags for easier transportation. After deflation some can be folded back to a bag shape again and easily carried around or stored. In sporting goods stores, kayak types are generally classified into three groups: fishing, sightseeing and rafting but they are also categorised in many other ways. For simplicity we won’t go into details since commercial ones are grouped in the seller's way of liking.

Today we still make kayaks out of wood but it would take a professional carpenter around 200 hours to construct a strip-build one. Therefore today we have more commercial built for sale rather than personal use make out of fiberglass or swelling materials. Although fiberglass is still one shall never forget that they are more vulnerable during impact and can get damaged easily and inflatable one much safer than they used to be thanks to new technologies.

The problem when buying a kayak is not to find the cheapest one but the safest for low cost. The cheapest kayak may seem to be the one that you would like to buy but kayaking may be dangerous if you can’t rely on your equipment in the middle of a lake or further away from land in sea. In fact we believe that not only safety but the comfort of the kayak will make your experience unforgettable so deciding on the best kayak for you might get complicated. The relatively low cost of the kayak is appealing and the equipment is easy to take care of. While choosing an affordable kayak and accessories you might consider reading the following.

Design: First of all you might have to decide where you want to paddle because the shape of the craft matters. There are three different designs and the bottom of the craft is shaped as its name; vees, flatbottoms and roundbottoms. If you decide on a flatbottom kayak which will be stable upon entry you may capsize easily in waves. So having a vee or roundbottom will be harder to control since it will be less stable and predictable but will be easier to control and safer in waves.

Today's modern kayaks typically do not have the tumblehome which increases efficiency but a flared bow that prevents waves from rolling into the craft. Although harder to use they are safer and more pleasant to use. Modern kayaks also have a floatation bag which will prevent them from filling with water and a foam knee pad and a foot peg for comfort. The kayak is weared but not kneeled upon like the canoe so you will want the knee pads protecting your knees and the foot peg to rest your feet. Since you sit in the kayak you will want to maximize your control over the craft as it embraces you.

Kayak: Inflatable kayaks are best suited for beginners since they are cheap and can be carried easily. They wary in one or two people sizes and most of the time come with paddles. If you prefer a solid sit-on-top kayak you can be sure that they are not sinkable but might tip over. Even if you tip over since it doesn’t have a cavity it won’t fill with water and sink. They might not provide the best comfort but are probably the safest and much easier to get in and out mostly suited for slow flows in rivers or beaches. On the other hand the sit-in kayaks are probably what you will want as you get more experienced. Inflatable sit-in kayaks are less common but they do exist but can be more expensive.

Paddle: As you sit in the kayak comfortably you will want to paddle it the best way too. Choose your paddle carefully since the kayak does not have an engine but the engine is you with the paddle. Do not forget that kayak paddles are long and double bladed. Canoe paddles single bladed should not be used in the kayak. Again depending on whether you want to go touring or whitewater choose the right paddle. The wide blades with a rigid shaft that are set at an angle to each other (feathered) are the whitewater paddles. With those paddles you will travel control in the rapids. On the other hand touring paddles have smaller blades and are narrow with flat or spoon shaped (cupped) blades since they are designed for comfort and efficiency. Kayak paddles are also designed for right or left hand control to maintain firmer grip. Most paddles are right-hand control but if you are left handed choose you paddle accordingly. The length of the kayak paddle depends on the width of the kayak and your torso length but an average sized person of 5’2”-6’2” (157 cm - 188 cm) in a solo boat uses a 80”-88” (200 cm - 220 cm) paddle.

Clothing: Deciding on the best clothing is as important as choosing the best kayak. It really might change your fun filled kayaking experience into a miserable one. When choosing the clothing do not get tricked by the air temperature, choose your dress by checking the water temperature. Also the accessories you bring with you will keep you safe. Here is what we suggest;

bring a personal floating device in case there is an accident and you find yourself in water, most of the time it's also required by law but wear it even if it’s not, accidents can happen even in shallow water
wear a hat since it protect from sun in hot weather and keeps your head warm in cold weather
sunglasses will help you keep your vision and protect your eyes, still water can be very bright
synthetic and wool clothes in layers will keep the heat in, can be added or shed and finally will dry much quicker than cotton
shoes to protect your feet and also slipping
a helmet especially if you are kayaking in rivers
a wet suit will help if you have one

Practice: If you are a starter we advice you to start your experience with kayaking on a lake. Even with the best equipment a mild current in a river might be challenging. It takes time to learn how to paddle. Yes, there are styles that you need to learn for smooth kayaking that won’t get you tired too quickly. In fact there are long articles just written to teach how to paddle the right way for beginners. After you feel comfortable you may start your river adventures. There are outdoor sport groups that you may sign up to not only for safety but also for the pleasure of having a fun group activity while enjoying the scenery.

As we mentioned earlier dress properly and bring the necessary equipment. Take a lot of water, snacks stored in sealable bags and a sunscreen depending on the season. If you are planning to go out to the sea you will have extra storage on those kayaks made for the sea. It's also a good idea to store everything in waterproof bags especially your phone or other electronic equipment so invest in them to prevent accidental costs. Having a duct tape with you is also a very good idea, it’s one of those miracle products thats so easy to use but will even fix your kayak if there is any need.

History of Kayaks

In North America, the Indians used kayaks as a means of transport in shallow waters. In Africa, Europe and Greenland, kayaks have been used for years as well.

The Indians made their canals by covering the wooden frame with birch trees. Eskimos joined the whale bones to make kayaks and covered with seal oil to make them light. The natives of Africa and the Pacific are carved logs to make kayaks. Nowadays, kayaks produced from swelling and fiber materials are widely used.

The Vikings and the Indians have built their kayaks so that they can overcome long ways. Eskimo’s kayaks can progress in the stream, may go in the frozen, narrow and rough water. Their maneuverability is also very high.

With these kayaks, it is possible to go faster in still water. They were developed from Indian kayaks. Their length is 5-5.5 m and widths range from 80 to 85 cm and depth ranges from 30 to 40 cm. The person using the kayak extends his legs toward the floor. When rowing, the back stands upright. Face is turning towards the direction he is going. The paddles are double sided. The paddle must be used in both directions in order for the kayak to proceed smoothly. If two people use the kayak, one should paddle from left and other from the right.

Xylove Co

XYLOVE CO All Skill Levels Everything Included with Stand Up Paddle Board (White, 11)

Product Highlights

Summer Time Sale!!XYLOVE CO Paddle Boards premium inflatable paddle board is made of the highest quality military grade material. We provide the most durable lightweight board on the market.
Our extra wide design creates an incredible Touring board for people of all skill level. These kits can be used in the ocean, fresh water lakes, and rivers. Our boards are an industry-leading weight of only 17 pounds—that’s 20% lighter than competitors’. Board dimensions are 11’ long by 33” wide and 6” thick with a weight limit of 350 pounds.
Our premium paddle board package has everything you need to enjoy your day on the water including: your board, collapsible aluminum paddle, safety leash, hand pump, and an upgraded backpack to hold everything. Comfortable and convenient, this complete elite package will get you anywhere you want to paddle.
SAFETY & CONVENICE - 33'' board width and 3 removable fins construction achieved amazing balance ability.

$218.00 View Deal

Intex

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

Product Highlights

Comfortable for anyone: Kayak includes an adjustable inflatable seat with backrest; Cockpit designed for comfort and space
Dimensions: Inflated size 10 feet 3 x 3 feet x 1 feet 8 inch; Maximum weight capacity: 400 pounds
Directional stability: Removable SKEG for directional stability
Increased visibility: In case of emergency, bright yellow color helps visibility
Made for smaller bodies of water: Explorer k2 is made for smaller bodies of water including lakes and mild rivers

$145.88 View Deal

Intex

Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air-Pump, Grey/Blue (68306NP)

Product Highlights

The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling
The bright green color and sporty graphics make the kayak highly visible in the water
2 86 inch aluminum paddles and an Intex high output pump for easy inflation and deflation
Made of company's rugged, super tough vinyl that's puncture and UV damage resistant for long term durability
Measures 30 by 15 by 138 inches (W x H x D) inflated, with 400 pound maximum weight limit; Includes 2 86 inch aluminum oars, high capacity pump, and repair patch kit

$141.35 View Deal

Emotion Kayaks

Emotion Kayaks Guster 10 Sit-in Kayak, Lightning

Product Highlights

Adjustable padded seat back and seat pad for comfort
St performance hull for tracking and stability - 275 lb. Weight capacity
Front and rear shock cord straps to secure loose items
Oval hatch for added storage beneath the deck
Front and rear handles for easy Transport

N/A View Deal

Sevylor

Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak Blue, 8'7" x 3'

Product Highlights

5-minute setup lets you spend more time on the water
Easy-to-carry backpack system turns into the seat
21-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures
Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured

$127.49 View Deal

Pelican

Pelican Sit-in Kayak -10 Feet Lightweight one Person Kayak (Argo 100X, Fade deep Blue White, Recreational, KFF10P300-00)

Product Highlights

Built using our Twin Arched Multi Chine Hull these kayaks provide excellent stability and combined with our spacious cockpits getting in-and-out of a kayak has never been easier!
At only 36 lb the ARGO 100X is incredibly easy to transport
The ARGO 100X also includes upgraded features geared to making your experience comfortable with inclusions like adjustable footrests an adjustable Ergoform padded backrest with seat cushion
There is a front storage hatch with bungee cord and a rear tank well equipped with mesh deck cover as well as a cockpit table with bottle holder and convenient compartments
To ensure you stay well hydrated there is a second bottle holder built-into the seat

$913.99 View Deal

Lucky

LUCKY Portable Fish Finder Handheld Kayak Fish Finders Wired Fish Depth Finder Sonar Sensor Transducer for Boat Fishing Sea Fishing

Product Highlights

☀ The portable fish finder, with updated 2.4inch TFT color LCD screen(more clear to display), can detect and display underwater contour, water depth, water temperature and fish size(big/middle/small) and fish depth. It has two user modes: TRANSDUCER/SIMULATION. Try all functions in simulation mode and go fishing in transducer mode.
☀ Lucky fish finder portable provides you 26FT wired operating distance and 328FT depth detection. Kayak fish finders has 45° beam angle with 200Khz in detection.
☀ The fish finder portable is rechargeable. Come with USB cable for charging. The fish depth finder can work continuously about 5 hours with full charge. The brightness of the display can be adjusted. Read the data either at night or in the sunlight easily.
☀ Various features settings: Lucky portable fish finder is with updated underwater contour display(3 kinds of display. You can choose, more clear and professional). Also, set up sensitivity, screen brightness, depth range, zoom, depth alarm, fish alarm, fish icon, units(FT/M ℃/℉)alter and language by yourself.
☀ Go fishing with the fish depth finder in different ways, such as ice fishing, river fishing, sea fishing, shore fishing, kayak fishing, etc. The bracket allows you to attach the sensor transducer to your boat or kayak.

$80.89 View Deal

Lifetime

Lifetime Cruze 100 Sit-in Kayak, Orchid Fusion, 10-Foot

Product Highlights

Adjustable Quick Release Seat Back and Seat Pad for Comfort
Deep Hull Channels for Tracking Performance and Chine Rails for Stability
Multiple Footrest Positions for Different Size Paddlers
Oval Hatch for Added Storage Beneath the Deck
Stable Flat Bottom Hull Design; Front and Rear Toggle Handles for Easy Transport

$499.00 View Deal

Intex

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Product Highlights

Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core: Light weight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
High pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with high pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
Includes 2 removable skews for deep and shallow water, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable bucket seats
Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories, such as GPS systems, fish finders, swivel fishing rod holders etc. Includes a carry bag and repair patch
Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear; Kayak total weight capacity: 400 pounds

$314.19 View Deal

Pelican

Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak - Sentinel 100X - 9.5 Feet - Lightweight one Person Kayak (Fade Black Green/Light Khaki, Angler/Fishing) (MBF10P100-00)

Product Highlights

A multi chine flat bottom hull ensures the stability needed when casting lines and reeling in fish.
Measuring 9'6"" and weighing only 44 lb, the SENTINEL 100X ANGLER is incredibly easy to transport and store
Made using our patented Ram-X materials, the SENTINEL 100X ANGLER will be around for years of exciting experiences.The best way to clean your kayak is by using a mixture of mild soap and warm water
Comes equipped with the ExoPak, a removable storage compartment that fits perfectly into the tank well.
Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC Standards. Maximum capacity of 275 lb.

$519.99 View Deal