Are you searching for the best kayak for kids?
Kids can have tremendous fun and learning experiences on a kayak. Whether paddling with friends or exploring the local river, your child will love spending time in nature. We've compiled our top seven picks of the best kid-friendly kayaks on the market today, so all you have to do is pick which fits your budget and needs!
From small sit-on-top designs to stable touring boats, we've got something that suits everyone's needs. Our list of highest-rated inflatable models makes it easy to find quality options that are simple to transport and store away when not in use. Each model has features like adjustable foot pedals, covered storage hatches, built-in handles, and more – what young adventurers need!
Check out our Top 7 Best Kayak For Kids list today to find the perfect fit for your child!
The Top 7 Picks
How Prolific Picks Choose the Best Kayak For Children?
Choosing the best kayak for your children can take time and effort. With so many different models, brands, and sizes, knowing which is best suited for your child takes time.
You want to ensure you get a safe, durable kayak, age-appropriate and comfortable. You don't want to spend a fortune on something your child might outgrow quickly.
Prolific Picks makes it easy with their carefully curated selection of the best kayaks for kids. We do all the research and testing for you, so you can rest assured knowing you're getting the perfect kayak for your little adventurer.
1. Intex Challenger Kayak
Why We Love It
The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is an ideal option for kids looking to get out onto the lake or slow-moving river. This nimble, durable kayak is made of welded material with eye-catching graphics for added safety. The cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space, and inflatable I-beam floors add stability. A removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement, while a cargo net can store extra gear, and grab lines are located on either end of the kayak. This package includes an inflatable seat with a backrest and 84-inch aluminum oar, a repair patch, and Hi output manual hand pump. At 108" x 30" x 13" in size and 27.2 pounds in weight, the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak can support up to 220 pounds and is perfect for paddling in lakes and rivers.
This kayak is an excellent option for kids looking for an affordable, easy-to-use kayak with plenty of features to get them out on the water. The eye-catching graphics make it easy to spot from a distance, and its small size makes it easier to transport than full-sized models. It also has an inflatable seat with a backrest for extra comfort and a removable skeg that provides exceptional directional movement. Lastly, the cargo net allows you to store extra gear while grabbing lines at either end, providing added safety and stability when getting in or out of the kayak.
Overall, the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is ideal for kids looking to get out onto the lake or slow-moving river. It is easy to transport and store, has plenty of features, and is lightweight yet stable.
Things You Want To Know
- Durable and welded material
- Eye-catching graphics for added safety
- The cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space
- Inflatable I-beam floors add stability
- A removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- A cargo net can store extra gear
- Grab lines located on either end of the kayak
- Inflatable seat with backrest and 84-inch aluminum oar included
- Supp
- Supports up to 220 pounds
2. Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak Blue
Why We Love It
The Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak has various features that make it an ideal choice for those looking to get out onto the lake or slow-moving river. This kayak has multiple air chambers that allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured and double lock valves that use two locking points for easy inflation/deflation. It also has a backrest and multi-position footrest to find your most comfortable position and a secure storage area with bungees to store items safely. Lastly, the pump and paddle are included for added convenience.
Things You Want To Know
- Durable 21-gauge PVC construction
- The Tarpaulin bottom protects from punctures
- Multiple air chambers for safety
- Double lock valves for easy inflation/deflation
- Backrest and multi-position footrest for added comfort
- Secure storage area with bungees for extra gear
Pump and paddle included
3. Explorer K2 Kayak
Why We Love It
The Explorer K2 Kayak is an excellent option for two people who want to explore lakes and mild rivers. Its adjustable inflatable seat with a backrest makes it comfortable enough for anyone to use. The cockpit is also designed with comfort and space in mind, so there's plenty of room for both paddlers. This kayak also features a removable skeg for directional stability and bright yellow color, which helps with visibility in an emergency. And the best part? It comes with aluminum oars and manual and electric pumps so you can quickly have fun on the water.
Things You Want to Know
- Durable polypropylene (PP) construction
- Inflated size 10 feet 3 x 3 feet x 1 feet 8 inch
- Maximum weight capacity 400 pounds
- Removable skeg for directional stability
- Bright yellow color helps visibility
- Includes aluminium oars, manual and electric pumps
4. Intex Explorer Inflatable Boat Series
Why We Love It
The Intex Explorer Inflatable Boat Series is an exceptional one-person vessel designed for recreational use. This boat has a maximum weight capacity of 120 pounds and is recommended for ages 6+. With its welded-on oar locks, two air chambers with double valves, and a removable skeg for directional stability, this boat is perfect for those looking to spend a day on the water. Additionally, it's bright yellow helps visibility so you can always stay safe while on the water. The package also includes aluminum oars and manual and electric pumps to get your adventure going quickly.
This boat is incredibly durable and can easily take on the choppiest waters. Its soft inflatable floor provides comfort and rigidity so you can enjoy your time out on the water however you like. The Intex Explorer Inflatable Boat Series also includes a repair patch in case of any punctures or rips, helping keep this vessel operational for years.
Things You Want to Know
• Maximum weight capacity of 120 lbs
• Safety, Quality, and Value
• Durable and Easy to Store
• Includes: Grab rope on the bow, oar locks, repair patch, two air chambers with double valves, aluminum oars, and manual/electric pumps
5. Hydro-Force Ventura Elite
Why We Love It
The Hydro-Force Ventura Elite X1 Inflatable Kayak Set is an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the lake, river, or ocean in comfort and safety. Built with quality and value in mind. It is made with sturdy 30 gauge vinyl material. It boasts an inflatable floor for both ease and rigidity. It includes valuable features like grab ropes on the bow, oar locks, a repair patch, two air chambers with double valves, aluminum oars, and manual/electric pump. The design also lets it comfortably fit up to 1 adult ( 275 lbs weight capacity).
This kayak is perfect for those who want the convenience of collapsing and storing their vessel when not in use while still maintaining high quality and performance. Whether looking for a fun day on the lake or a severe exploration mission, this craft can provide both easily.
Things You Want To Know
- Durable 30 gauge vinyl construction
- Inflatable floor for comfort and rigidity
- Includes aluminium oars, manual/electric pump, grab ropes & oar locks
- Double air chambers with dual valves
- Repair patch included
- 275 lbs weight capacity
6. Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle
Why We Love It
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle is the perfect choice for kids of all ages. Its lightweight design and 130 LB weight capacity make it easy to transport, while its durable HDPE construction ensures it will not fade, crack or peel over time. The ergonomic cockpit design enhances balance and motor skills, while the twin fin design assists in tracking and surf riding. The sloped end of the kayak is also equipped with a swim-up step to make it easy for riders to reenter the water. With multiple footrest positions and a 5-year limited warranty, this kayak will indeed be enjoyed by kids of all ages!
Another great feature of this kayak is its lightweight design. At just 18 pounds, it's easy to carry and move around. It also has molded finger handles on either side, making transporting it even easier. The polyethylene construction ensures that the kayak won't fade, crack or peel over time, ensuring your child can enjoy it for years!
Overall, the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle is an excellent choice for any adventurous young water enthusiast. It's durable construction, and lightweight design will provide your child with hours of fun on the lake or river!
Things You Want to Know
- Durable HDPE construction with UV-protection
- Ergonomic cockpit design enhances balance & motor skills
- Twin fin design assists in tracking & surf riding
- A sloped end with a swim-up step allows the rider to reenter the kayak from the water easily
- Multiple footrest positions for different-size riders
7. Pelican Solo Youth Kayak
Why We Love It
The Pelican SOLO six-foot kayak is the perfect watercraft for young ones. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry, and its twin tunnel hull design provides superior stability and maneuverability. The swim-up rear deck with a handle allows easy boarding from the water, so your little ones can be as safe as possible while playing. Additionally, it has molded footrests to fit a comfortable paddling position, a paddle park to store their paddle when not in use, a bottle holder in front of the seat, and a drain plug preventing water infiltration. Finally, this youth kayak also comes with a safety flag which lets you keep an eye on them at all times.
This kayak's safety and comfort are key benefits, as it is made explicitly for smaller paddlers. The footrests fit various sizes, and the swim-up rear deck with a handle allows easy re-entry from the water. Moreover, its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport, perfect for families on vacation or just heading out for a day trip.
Overall, the Pelican SOLO 6 Feet Sit-on-top Youth Kayak is an excellent choice for young paddlers who want to stay safe while having fun on the lake or beach. This incredibly versatile kayak can grow with your child as they improve their skills.
Things You Want to Know
- Lightweight construction for easy transportation
- Twin tunnel hull design provides superior stability & maneuverability
- Swim-up rear deck with handle allows for easy boarding from the water
- Molded footrests fit a comfortable paddling position
- Paddle Park stores paddle when not in use
- Bottle holder in front of the seat
Best Kayaks for Kids FAQS
What is a kid's kayak?
A kids kayak is a smaller, lighter kayak explicitly designed for young paddlers. Most kids kayaks are designed to be more stable and easy to maneuver than adult kayaks, making them ideal for young children just starting.
What are the best kids' kayaks on the market?
Many great kids kayaks are available, but some of the best options include the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak, the Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Heron Junior Kayak, and the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak. Inflatable kayaks are also an excellent option for kids as they are easy to store and transport. Additionally, tandem kayaks can be fun for parents and kids to paddle together.
Can kids use adult kayaks?
While children can undoubtedly use adult kayaks, it is generally not recommended as adult kayak may be too large and challenging for young paddlers to handle. Children's kayaks are specifically designed with young paddlers in mind, with features like a swim-up deck and a more durable design. Recreational kayaks are also a good option for families as they are easy to use and can accommodate a range of ages and skill levels.
What should I look for in a youth kayak?
When selecting a youth kayak, it is essential to consider factors like the size and weight of the kayak and the skill level and experience of the young paddler. Look for a kayak with a comfortable seat, adjustable footrests, and an appropriately sized paddle for the young paddler. Additionally, a swim-up deck can be a great safety feature for young paddlers.
Can children have their own kayak?
Yes, many young paddlers enjoy having their kayaks. However, it is important to ensure that the kayak is appropriately sized for the child and that they are properly trained and supervised when using their kayak. It may also be a good idea to start with a tandem or youth kayak that can be shared with an adult or sibling.
What are the benefits of kayaking for kids?
Kayaking can be an excellent activity for young children, helping to develop their physical fitness, coordination, and confidence on the water. It can also be a fun family activity and a great way to explore the outdoors. Follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate safety gear when kayaking with kids.
What age is a youth kayak for?
A youth kayak is typically designed for children between 6 and 12, depending on their size and skill level. It is important to select a kayak that is appropriately sized for the child and that they are adequately trained and supervised when using it. Some youth kayaks may also be suitable for more miniature adults or paddling with a child in a tandem configuration.
Which Kayak Is Best For Kids?
The best kayak for kids depends on factors like the child's age, size, skill level, and intended use of the kayak. Some popular options for kids include the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak, the Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Heron Junior Kids Kayak, and the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak.
Inflatable kayaks can also be a great option for kids as they are easy to store and transport. Additionally, a tandem kayak can be a fun option for parents and kids to paddle together. Selecting a kayak that is appropriately sized and equipped for the child's needs and abilities is important.
Do click on the below links we provided to buy the best kayak for your kids!
Happy Kayaking!
The Prolific Pick Team
