Inflatable Kayak vs Hardshell

Kayaking is a great way to get outside and see things that are only accessible by water.  If you’re thinking about a new boat then you’ll have to consider one big decision, and that is inflatable kayak vs hardshell and below we’ll cover the pros and cons of both.

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When you’re buying a new kayak there are a few considerations to think about like what type of water you’ll be on and the capabilities of your boat.  There are kayaks out there for just about every type of activity on the water from oceans and lakes to big rapids with fast water and just about everything in between.

 

Kayak Types and Materials

Kayaks not only come in an array of styles but also materials, all of these have things they’re good at and things they’re not so good at.  Materials range from PVC-coated polyester, polyurethane, fiberglass, carbon fiber and wood.  Here we’ll cover what you can expect out of them and what they’re capable of.  Some things that you’ll need to think about are where you’re going to be paddling, how long, and how you plan to transport your boat.

Hardshell Kayaks

These are lots of different types of hardshell kayaks built for many different kinds of paddling.  There are recreational kayaks, touring and modular kayaks, sit-on-top and folding models and each of them perform really well in their own environments.  Some focus on stability, some on long distance, and others on big whitewater.  Hull shape, weight, and materials all play a part in what you can achieve with your boat.

Hardshell Kayak Types

 

Recreational Kayaks – For calm days on flat water or playing with family or friends

 

What are recreational kayaks for?  Recreational kayaks are good choices for new kayakers, for fishing, taking pictures and other activities where stability is key.  These boats are inexpensive, easy to use, and give novices a bump in confidence since they’re easy to maneuver and keep upright.  There are some instances where these boats run into trouble though.  Water with strong currents, wind and open water paddling can cause issues are not recommended for use with recreational kayaks.  Have no fear though there are kayaks built to excel in those exact conditions.

Check out our choice for the best recreational kayak for beginners.

Touring Kayaks – Great for traveling over long distances and also in rough conditions

 

What are touring kayaks for?  These kayaks are the marathoners of the kayak world. Built for the long haul with extra room for gear.  Typically more expensive than recreational kayaks these boats have better performance and more versatility that can get you to that awesome fishing spot or secluded cove.  Touring kayaks have bulkheads that trap air even if the cockpit fills with water enhancing safety and buoyancy.  These boats are long, about 12 to 17 feet, and that helps with lift in waves and rougher water.  The hull shape is also optimized for paddling efficiency so you can make sure you’ve got the boat to get you where you need to go.

Most touring kayaks have a rudder, skeg, or combination system.  These boats are made of plastic or lightweight materials and there both multi-day and single-day iterations.

Swing over and check out our selection for the best touring kayak for beginners.

 

Modular Kayaks – Built for easy storage and transport

What are modular kayaks for?  These boats break down into 2-3 pieces typically and can be handled by one person.  Their small pieces mean that they can fit inside of a vehicle and storage is a breeze.  If you have another person who wants to come just buy an additional cockpit, snap it into place, and you’re good to go.  Heck, why not make it three?

Sit-on-Top Kayaks – Built for warm water and recreational use

What are sit on top kayaks for?  These kayaks are awesome for swimmers, kids and newbies alike.  They’re easy to get on and off because of their wide base and make for an excellent choice if your in warm conditions.  Sit on top kayaks are typically wider and slower than traditional boats but that makes them more stable and forgiving making them a great choice for young ones and those looking to get in and out frequently.  These kayaks aren’t the top choice for cold climates because the paddler sits above and exposed to elements.

 

Folding Kayaks – Optimal for ease of storage, transport and touring

 

Similar to solid frame touring kayaks these boats save room and add a level of convenience for those looking for a boat that is easy to transport.  There rigid hull provides similar levels of performance when compared to their touring cousins.  Once you get the assembly process down it only takes 15 to 20 minutes to get the boat unpack and in the water.  These are some of the best the hardshell class has to offer on the convenience factor in the inflatable kayak vs hardshell debate

 

Whitewater Kayaks – Purpose built to run big water and for trick riding

 

These are the kayaks you see coming down the mountain rivers through big whitewater.  Typically shorter than other kayaks, these boats are built to be light, agile, and strong when in big, fast-moving water.  Once mastered these boats can flip, roll and dive, take on waterfalls and fit on top of your car so you can do it all over again.  Not for beginners these boats represent the evolution of kayaking.

Check out our choice for the best whitewater kayak for beginners.

 

Inflatable Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are purpose built for travel and transport.  Don’t be confused, these are not pool toys they can run with the other types and have advantages of their own.  Inflatable kayaks are more buoyant and can be more maneuverable than their hardshell counterparts.  Running about 10-15 feet long these kayaks, once deflated, can fit inside of a duffel bag and can give you tremendous options for use.  Now those lakes and rivers that were once out of reach with a hardshell boat are now within your range.

 

Dispelling Some Inflatable Kayak Myths

Myth #1
“They pop as soon as you hit something”

Typically these boats are made of PVC coated polyester and are built to withstand the demands typically placed on kayaks.  Sure, you don’t want to run a bony whitewater section (although, there are inflatables for just such purpose) but bouncing off a few rocks or the dock isn’t going hurt them at all.

Myth #2
“They’re slow and not very maneauverable”

While slower than a traditional hardshell kayak these boats can still get moving.  The modern inflatable kayaks can track well in the water and can handle quite well in the water.

Myth #3
“They take for ever to inflate”

We all know the feeling of plowing up the air mattress or camping pad until you’re red in the face and lightheaded but these boats are nothing like that.  With modern pumps air is pushed in on both the downward and upward motion of the pump.  Other system like electric pumps and fill bags can seriously limit the time it takes to inflate them.

Inflatable vs Hardshell Kayak Conclusion

What’s the best kayak?  The one that matches your style and ambitions as a boater.  Running whitewater?  There’s a kayak for that.  Want to go whale watching?  There’s a kayak for that.  Want to find that perfect fishing spot?  There’s a kayak for that.

The point being, examine your situation and what you want to accomplish with your kayak and how much room you have for storage.  Answering these questions will expedite your kayak shopping and help you find the best boat for your needs.