Buying An Inflatable: Kayak Categories

September 8, 2016

by Clay Haller
Buying An Inflatable: Kayak Categories

Inflatable kayaks have been around since the 1960s, and with advancements in materials and design have grown to be a popular segment of the paddlesports market. Most people tend to favor inflatables for their portability – pack it in a duffel bag, throw it in the trunk, or check it on an airplane. Others like the stability, among other key factors. 

When choosing an inflatable kayak, first consider what type of paddling you’ll be doing and the water conditions. Inflatable kayaks can be categorized into several groups (some more broad than others) but in general, they tend to fall into one of six categories:

Whitewater, Recreational, Day Touring, Expedition, Crossover, and Angling

Once you have decided what your intended use will be, you’ll want to pick a kayak designed for that type of paddling. Some can be used in multiple conditions, but others are designed for very specific uses. 

The most obvious specific design is whitewater kayaks (Class III-V). These IKs are self-bailing, where water drains through holes in the floor. They have a tipped-up bow and stern, or “rocker,” to increase maneuverability. A whitewater IK is not designed to track straight, so they can be a lot of work to paddle on flatwater. 

Recreational inflatable kayaks are geared for casual paddling on lakes and slow moving rivers with calm conditions. They are typically a little wider than touring or expedition kayaks, as well as more stable. 

Day Touring kayaks, like the AdvancedFrame Kayak, are designed with better tracking performance. They’re intended for longer distance and to carry gear for a day, or more. They are not self-bailing, and often employ a “sit-in” design positioning you lower on the water.  

Expedition IKs are longer and narrower for faster hull speed and larger cargo capacity, ideal for multi-day trips and covering long distances. Typically, they include a coaming for attaching a spray skirt, and often incorporate features such as rigid frames and inflatable tubes to enhance performance and keep the hull narrow, as with the AirFusion Elite.

The Crossover category encompasses models that perform on whitewater and flatwater. They have self-bailing ports that can be opened or closed depending on conditions and a tracking-focused design for flat/open water. 

Growing in popularity over recent years, inflatable kayaks for Angling focus on tracking performance and are loaded with features. A good Angling IK has rod holders, and mounting positions to attach holders and other accessories, such as a fish finder, utility tray or cup holder. 

Regardless of your choice, always wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and be realistic about your skill level. Take the time to learn about the area where you are paddling (tides, currents, wind). There are paddling clubs all over the world that are great resources to find places to paddle, people to paddle with and most importantly, continued safety practices.

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