The Best Inflatable Canoes for Adventure Seekers

The Best Inflatable Canoes Buying Guide

Inflatable canoes are steadily becoming the norm for exploring calm and slightly choppy waters. They are different and better than the old hardshell kayaks, which take up a lot of space and are quite heavy. These inflatable watercrafts are portable and lightweight, and some models can house up to three people. A kayaker who selects the right inflatable canoe for the waters will enjoy a safe, easy, and fun adventure. To clarify things for you, we have compiled this buying guide that highlights everything you need to know about inflatable canoes and the factors to consider when making your selection.

Types of Inflatable Canoes

Inflatable canoes are perfect for all forms of cruising on calm and choppy waters, but some are better suited for certain conditions than others. There are different types of inflatable canoes based on what they are designed for, and you should consider this before making that inflatable canoe purchase. 

Touring inflatable canoes

These canoes feature a long, streamlined design suited for traveling on flat water. Most touring inflatable canoes come with rudders that boost steering, plus they can be used on both oceans and freshwater. 

Sea inflatable canoes

Sea inflatables are similar to touring inflatable canoes in terms of shape and design. However, they are custom-made for the seas. They feature extra elements like scupper holes for draining water. 

Sit-on-top kayaks

Just like the name suggests, sit-on-top kayaks will allow you to sit on top of the kayak rather than inside it. Its ergonomic design provides more comfort, especially if you have long legs, a large body, or limited movement. 

Tandem inflatable canoes

These canoes are built to hold you and one other paddler at a time. They also come as convertibles, which will give you more legroom and space for your gear.  

Solo inflatable canoes

Solo canoes are designed to hold one paddler at a time, so you will find them relatively shorter than their tandem counterparts. You can select from a range of solo inflatable canoes built for specific activities such as touring, fishing, and white water kayaking. 

White water kayaks

These should be at the top of your list if you will be paddling white waters. In contrast to touring and sea inflatable canoes, these kayaks feature a short, broad design with a limited weight capacity. This framework gives you extra buoyancy and maneuverability to swiftly steer clear of obstacles. 

Fishing kayaks

Choosing this canoe is a no-brainer if you want to go fishing. They are retrofitted with features such as bait buckets and anchor cleats that support fishing activities. You will find fishing kayaks available in long and short lengths, too. 

Different Sizes for Inflatable Canoes

The size directly affects the number of people you can paddle the canoe with at a time. If you will be paddling the waters as a lone wolf, a solo inflatable canoe is an ideal option, while tandem inflatables are built for paddling with one or two people or a pet. 

Portability

One of the selling points of inflatable canoes is how easy they are to transport when deflated. This feature varies between inflatable canoe models, but a general rule of thumb is that they should be portable enough to fit a storage bag.

Materials

Most inflatable canoes are made of one of three materials, namely, PVC, Nitrylon, or Hypalon. Each one has unique features and downsides, so pick the one you’re most comfortable with. 

PVC

PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride, and it is the material component of most inflatable canoes. PVC is a durable plastic material that can be welded, glued, or easily repaired. It is abrasion-resistant and highly economical. However, PVC material is susceptible to damage by extreme temperatures, UV rays, and chemicals. Plus, it has questionable impacts on the aquatic environment.  

Hypalon

This is the material found in many advanced inflatable canoes. This synthetic plastic is durable and highly resistant to damage by extreme temperatures, UV rays, and chemicals. However, it is not as resistant to abrasion as PVC. 

Nitrylon

Nitrylon was introduced as an eco-friendly alternative to PVCs. It is stronger and more puncture-resistant, but heavier than PVCs. Nitrylon inflatable canoes are perfect for cold waters, so consider this when you’re making your purchase. Now that you know the pros and cons of each of these materials, it should be fairly easy to choose the one you can roll with. 

Comfort

All the inflatable canoe perks and features in the world will not matter if you’re not comfortable inside it. An inflatable canoe is mostly a recreational vessel, and nothing about recreation says pain or discomfort. For maximum comfort in your canoe, you need to consider two factors: internal space and seats. 

Internal Space

A general rule of thumb is to select an inflatable canoe with more space than it is intended for. Selecting a kayak with enough legroom is vital, especially if you are a tall person. Tight spaces and knee cramps are not ideal for recreational trips, and you know what to do to avoid them now. 

Seats

Consider getting a canoe with adjustable seats. You can shift these seats forward or backward to positions that you feel comfortable in. You should also consider inflatable canoes with some elevation off the floor and other ergonomic features such as backrests. These features will make your kayaking adventure comfortable, safe, and fun. 

Stability

Inflatable canoes are generally stable and buoyant enough for amateur paddlers. However, if you are looking for more stability, go for something short and broad. The maneuverability potential will be limited, but it will feel stable and safer on water. If you’re a Pro or you simply want more canoe maneuverability, then long and thin canoes should be your choice. 

Weight

Inflatable canoes are generally lightweight, but some are heavier than others. If you will be hiking with your inflatable canoe, you might want to consider its weight before buying it. Check the material components and select the most lightweight if you will have to carry your canoe over some distance.