Best Kayaks For Beginners: Full Product Guide (July 2022)
1. Pelican Argo 100X
(Best Overall)
Width: 28″ (71 cm)
Weight: 36 lbs. (16.3 kg)
Capacity: 275 lbs. (125 kg)
The most popular beginner-level kayak, mainly due to its wide availability and great pricing. At 36 lbs (16.3 kg), it is also very lightweight. You can literally grab it one-handed and carry it around.
2. Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
(Runner-Up Overall)
Length: 12’2” (371 cm)
Capacity: 325 lbs (147 kg)
Type: Sit in
The Pungo 120 features Wilderness Systems’ proprietary hull design which blends a wide base with a relatively flat bottom. Additionally, since the front and rear of the boat feature a slight chine, this kayak screams stability on the water without sacrificing its inherent tracking prowess over longer distances.
3. Intex Explorer K2
(Best Budget Kayak)
Width: 36” (91 cm)
Weight: 30.6 lb (13.9 kg)
Capacity: 400 lb (180 kg)
Intex Explorer K2 is best used for short recreational paddles on small, calm bodies of water. Its compact size, lightweight construction, and low price make it an easy first step into kayaking.
4. Perception Rambler 13.5
(Best Tandem Kayak)
Length: 13’6” (412 cm)
Capacity: 500 lbs (249 kg)
Type: Sit on top
Featuring a wide, mostly rounded hull that offers impeccable stability in calm conditions, the Rambler 13.5 is a solid choice for paddlers that enjoy sticking to sheltered waters. Its spacious deck area and high maximum weight capacity are able to accomodate 2 adult paddlers.
5. Lifetime Tamarack Pro 103
(Best Fishing Kayak)
Material: High-density, UV-protected polyethylene
Size: 12′ 3″ (312.42 cm) x 31″ (78.7 cm)
Weight: 57.5 lb (26 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)
Crafted from UV-protected high-density polyethylene, the Tamarack Angler is designed to be a rigid, durable kayak that performs well on the water. Many users report that the kayak offers enough stability to allow them to stand while fishing.
6. Perception Flash 9.5
(Best For Rivers)
Width: 28.5 in | 72.4 cm
Weight: 41 lbs
Best Use: Flatwater, slow-moving rivers, coasts
The Perception Flash 9.5 is a decent river kayak, especially for beginners that only plan to tackle slower-moving rivers. It is affordable and provides the value most beginners are looking for in a kayak, along with some versatility.
7. Pelican Sentinel 100X
(Best For Dogs)
Width: 30 in | 76.2 cm
Weight: 42 lbs
Best Use: Recreational kayaking, fishing
The Pelican Sentinel 100X kayak is a great beginner kayak whether you decide to bring your dog along for the ride or not. Sit on top kayaks often provide more space for an animal companion to ride along, and this model is stable enough to allow for some movement aboard without issue.
8. Old Town Heron 9XT
The Old Town Heron 9XT is one of the best beginner kayaks picks because of the overall value. It is an affordable option that provides a high level of versatility, allowing paddlers to enjoy lakes and slow-moving rivers. The cockpit, adjustable seat, and bracing system are pretty comfortable for the average person.
