The Best Hard Shell Kayaks for the Finest Recreational Experience
Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your days off? Then you should consider trying out kayaking! Kayaking is a great way to explore both large and small bodies of water while feeling close to nature. However, before you start paddling away, you have an important decision to make: what type of kayak should you buy?
One of the finest types of kayaks available is hard-shell kayaks. Hard shell kayaks are strong and durable and can handle almost any water condition. Plus, they offer an additional layer of protection against the elements. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the ultimate hard shell kayaks of 2024, so you can make an informed decision. We’ve included options for every budget and need, so you’re sure to find the perfect kayak for you.
Our Top Picks
- Hard Shell Kayaks: A Buyer’s Guide
- People Also Asked
- What are the benefits of a hard shell kayak?
- How much do hard shell kayaks cost?
- Are hard shell kayaks durable?
- How easy is it to maneuver a hard shell kayak?
- What type of water is best for a hard-shell kayak?
- Are hard shell kayaks good for whitewater?
- What is the difference between a hard and soft shell kayak?
- Is it easy to transport a hard shell kayak?
- How stable are hard shell kayaks for fishing?
- Related Reviews
Detailing the Top Hard Shell Kayaks of 2024
Best Overall
The Driftsun Hard Shell Kayak is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fun kayaking experience. With the capacity to accommodate up to three people and 500 pounds of weight, this kayak is perfect for family trips or light fishing. It is also designed with durability, featuring a single-piece high-density polyethylene hull. The Adventure Ready features add more fun to any outing. The four flush-mounted capped rod holders and two mounting points for Scotty accessories provide plenty of storage, while a rear tank well with bungee offers even more space for storing gear.
The dual watertight storage hatches with inserts and built-in cup holders make it easy to bring snacks and drinks, while the molded center cockpit seat provides extra comfort. All kayakers have two adjustable EVA padded seats with high back support and two anodized aluminum performance kayak paddles with ergonomic grips. With its adjustable EVA padded seats, performance paddles, storage hatches, and more, this kayak is top-rated on our list.
Pros
- Fuselage designed to add a 3rd seat
- Solid, sturdy, durable construction
- Comfortable and easy to paddle
Cons
- Very heavy to handle on your own
Most Comfortable
The Wilderness Hard Shell Kayak provides excellent performance for tandem use and can easily convert to solo use, making it ideal for all paddlers. Its signature rounded hull allows the kayak to accelerate faster, which makes it easy to paddle long distances more quickly. The Phase 3 AirPro seats are adjustable and ergonomic, with ventilated mesh seating and thigh and knee padding for added support and a better day on the water. In addition, the large padded footrests provide extra comfort, and the easy-to-adjust locking lever accommodates paddlers of different heights.
For maximum storage and dryness, this pick also has a dry storage hatch in the rear and a stern bulkhead foam, which adds buoyancy to the water and is a great safety feature often not found in less expensive kayaks. Despite its 500 lb capacity, this relatively lightweight kayak (weighing only 72 lbs) is easy to transport to and from your favorite destinations.
Pros
- Glides effortlessly through the water
- Comfortable and adjustable seats
- Easily maneuverable/turns easily
Cons
- Doesn’t do well in choppy water
Lightweight Pick
The BKC Hard Shell Kayak is the perfect vessel for outdoor fun. With enough space to accommodate up to three people, it’s great for family adventures and fishing trips. Designed with stability in mind, this kayak is made from a single piece of high-density polyethylene that can support up to 770 lbs. It also has a 34-inch beam that provides superior balance even in choppy waters or currents. Plus, it has four built-in rod holders and two paddle parks, allowing you to keep your rods conveniently close at hand.
The kayak also has two ergonomic aluminum frame seats and two adjustable aluminum paddles, so you won’t have to worry about purchasing additional equipment. On top of that, it has two water-resistant storage hatches and a rear cargo space secured with a bungee cord, giving you plenty of room to store all your essentials securely. This pick is a great option for those looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience or a reliable fishing vessel.
Pros
- Very stable, easy to paddle
- Lightweight for easy transport
- Comfortable mesh seats that dry easily
Cons
- Shipping estimate not accurate
Adjustable Pick
The Lifetime Hard Shell Kayak is a must-have for any water enthusiast. Its hull design provides both ultra stability and great tracking, making it perfect for long treks through the lake and rivers. The multiple footrest positions offer comfortable, secure support for different-size paddlers, and the included adjustable hard backrest gives great lumbar support. The scupper holes allow water to drain from the cockpit area and make room for the molded paddle cradle, so you won’t have to worry about it slipping away.
The durable high-density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction means that this kayak won’t fade, crack, or peel due to UV rays, and the lightweight 38 lb design makes it easy to transport. The tank well storage features a bungee cord lacing system designed to secure all loose items in place. This pick is excellent for those looking for a durable, lightweight kayak for hours of uninterrupted fun on the water. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty, and its incredible design will give you peace of mind to explore even the most remote waterways.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Comes with adjustable backrest and footrests
- Easy to maneuver and control
Cons
- Seat straps may slide and require re-tightening
Stable Pick
The Pelican Hard Shell Kayak is designed to be a great recreational two-person kayak, measuring 13 feet long. It offers many upgraded features, including a quick lock hatch and tanks well equipped with bungee cords, molded footrests, two bottle holders, and four accessory eyelets for your convenience. The twin-arched multi-chine hull offers excellent stability and easy entry, making it a safe and steady ride. Plus, the unique manufacturing process allows for additional flotation, meeting or surpassing ABYC standards, and can hold a maximum capacity of 500 pounds.
The adjustable ERGOFIT G2 seating system provides targeted cushioning and better airflow, with molded middle seat for extra room for a small child, pet, or extra gear. Plus, this tandem kayak is constructed with exceptionally durable high molecular density polyethylene, which makes it lightweight yet extremely durable. Weighing in at 73 lbs., this boat is lighter than competitors for easy transportation. Plus, the added scupper holes help drain any excess water that might get into your watercraft.
Pros
- Allows transport of two or three children
- Stable and easy to handle
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- Paddles not included with purchase
Hard Shell Kayaks: A Buyer’s Guide
Several important factors must be considered when selecting a hardshell kayak for recreational or competitive use. After deciding on a budget and the type of water you plan to paddle in, the features outlined below should be considered when purchasing.
Factors To Consider Before Purchasing Hard Shell Kayaks
Stability
Stability is important in a kayaking experience as it enables greater comfort and control. Generally, wider and longer kayaks will offer the greatest stability, although narrower and shorter models can be surprisingly stable if designed with a sufficient rocker and the correct hull shape. Stability is also affected by a kayak’s weight capacity and how much weight is carried inside the craft.
Materials used
The materials used in a hardshell kayak are key to its overall performance and durability. Kayaks manufactured using rotomolded polyethylene are generally very durable and reliable (with an industry-standard 5-year warranty on average) since it is abrasion resistant and unreactive with water. Fiberglass/carbon fiber models offer superior speed while being much lighter than their polyethylene counterparts —- but often with a higher price tag.
Seating configuration
Most recreational hardshell kayaks have two seats — one for the paddler at the stern and one for a passenger up front —- although some models feature adjustable seating for added comfort during long excursions. Touring kayaks may incorporate a traditional sit-in cockpit design rather than open seating, allowing greater control for more challenging maneuvers such as surfing waves or performing rolls during whitewater conditions.
Tips for Maintaining Hard Shell Kayaks
- Clean your kayak after every use: After each trip, rinse your kayak thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or debris. If your kayak has any stubborn stains or dirt, gently scrub it away with a mild detergent and a soft brush.
- Store your kayak properly: Always store your kayak in a dry and cool place away from direct sunlight. Make sure to support the kayak’s weight evenly on its side or upside down to prevent any deformities.
- Protect your kayak from scratches and dents. Avoid dragging it on rough surfaces, and always handle it carefully. Consider using kayak covers or padding to protect it during transportation.
Things To Consider Before Buying Hard Shell Kayaks
Tracking performance
The shape of a hardshell kayak’s hull directly affects its tracking performance —- longer lengths usually perform better than shorter ones since they provide greater directional control over longer distances without too much effort from the paddler. Additionally, keel-style designs enhance tracking ability by reducing yaw (side-slippage) while improving stability in choppy waters compared to flat-bottom hull shapes.
Comfort design
Comfort should be essential when selecting a hardshell kayak since it impacts how much fun you can have when exploring rivers or out on open waters! Ergonomics is the study of people in their working environments, and most models now feature adjustable seating ergonomics that can help optimize posture. This results in comfortable and efficient paddling positions depending on trip duration. So look out for adjustable seat backs/paddles with multiple height/angle settings or built-in foam cushioning/support along hull sides and molded thigh braces/foot braces where available.
Hull design
This feature directly affects performance characteristics such as speed vs. maneuverability/agility, so selecting one that best suits your needs is important. Flat-bottomed designs are best suited towards flatter water conditions, while V-shaped designs reduce drag and provide additional stability at higher speeds or when tackling technical rapids, etc.
Benefits of Using Hard Shell Kayaks
- Durability: Hardshell kayaks are typically made of sturdy materials such as plastic, fiberglass, or Kevlar, which make them highly resistant to wear and tear. They can withstand rocks, logs, and other obstacles that could damage other types of kayaks.
- Speed and Efficiency: The rigid hull of a hard shell kayak allows it to glide through the water with ease, offering greater speed and efficiency than inflatable or folding kayaks. This makes them a good choice for kayakers who want to cover more distance in less time.
- Stability: Hard shell kayaks are generally more stable than other kayaks, providing a solid base for paddlers to control and maneuver their craft. This stability can be especially important in rough water or windy conditions, where other types of kayaks might struggle to maintain control.
People Also Asked
What are the benefits of a hard shell kayak?
The main benefits of a hard shell kayak are its durability, stability, and improved tracking performance. Hardshell kayaks are also often lighter than inflatable or softshell kayaks, making them easier to transport and maneuver. They are typically more resistant to punctures and can handle heavier loads.
How much do hard shell kayaks cost?
The price of hard shell kayaks varies greatly depending on the size, material, features, and brand. Generally, a basic model starts at around $600, while more advanced models can cost over $2,000 or more.
Are hard shell kayaks durable?
Hard shell kayaks are extremely durable and can last years with proper care and maintenance. They are made from high-grade plastics or fiberglass composites that are designed to withstand impacts and handle heavier loads than other kayaks.
How easy is it to maneuver a hard shell kayak?
Hard shell kayaks are usually very easy to maneuver due to their lightweight and the shape of the hulls. They have excellent tracking performance and respond well to paddling strokes, making them great for beginner and experienced paddlers alike.
What type of water is best for a hard-shell kayak?
Since hard shell kayaks are designed for stability and tracking performance, they typically perform best on flat, calm water such as lakes or slow-moving rivers. However, some models may be able to handle moderate whitewater on certain rivers.
Are hard shell kayaks good for whitewater?
It depends on your hard shell kayak model; some models may handle moderate whitewater on certain rivers, while others may not suit that kind of water. It is best to research the different models available before deciding which one is right for you.
What is the difference between a hard and soft shell kayak?
Hard shell kayaks are typically made from rigid materials like plastic or fiberglass composites. In contrast, softshells are made of flexible materials like fabrics or rubberized material stretched over a steel frame or air chamber. Hard shells tend to be faster and more efficient in tracking straighter lines, while softshells offer better maneuverability due to their flexibility and lighter weight.
Is it easy to transport a hard shell kayak?
It is relatively easy to transport a hard-shell kayak since they are usually much lighter than inflatable or soft-shell models. Most models come with carrying handles or straps that make transporting them easier, although larger models may require an additional cart or trailer for portability purposes.
How stable are hard shell kayaks for fishing?
Hard shell kayaks can be very stable due to their design, which allows them to sit low in the water and provide increased stability when paddling, even in rough waters. Many anglers prefer hard shells for comfort when fishing from the deck with minimal rocking motion compared to other boats or rafts.