When it comes to spending time with your family, many activities may cross your mind. And we are pretty sure that family kayaking is an outdoor activity that you consider. As a result, you stand between 2 options: let your children sit inside your kayak or buy them the best kayaks for kids.
The best kayaks for kids must be portable, safe, stable, and easy to paddle. As a first-time buyer, you may have difficulties in choosing suitable kayaks. Therefore, we have included the top 17 best kayaks for kids and a buying guide. Keep reading this review to understand some criteria that determine the best kayaks for kids.
Now, let’s jump into the reviews!
Best Kayaks For Kids Comparison 2021
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the best kayaks for kids, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
- Perfect for kids ages 5 and up, or up to 130 lbs.
- Molded finger handles on each side for easy transport; Only weighs 18 lbs.
- Sloped back end and swim-up step allow rider to easily re-enter kayak from the water
- Safe: Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards. This kayak holds a maximum weight capacity of 225 lb and if any water gets in, the scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak will help drain it out, which means more safety for the kids and peace of mind for the parents! This kayak also includes a safety flag.
- Stable: The twin tunnel hull offers superior stability for a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak.
- Lightweight: Made of an exceptionally durable high molecular weight polyethylene, our kayaks require less materials to be built. At 7 ft 9 in and weighing only 35 lb, this kayak is perfectly scaled down in size to suit smaller paddlers.
- Nimble, durable kayak is made of durable welded material with eye catching graphics for added safety on the lake or slow moving river
- Cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space, and inflatable I beam floors add stability. Removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- Cargo net to store extra gear, and grab line on both ends of kayak; inflatable seat with backrest
- Constructed of High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durability
- Molded Finger Handles on each side of kayak for easy transport to and from the water
- Swim-Up step allows rider to easily re-enter kayak from the water
- This kayak holds a maximum weight capacity of 100 lb and if any water gets in, the scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak will help drain it out, which means more safety for the kids and peace of mind for the parents! The SOLO kayak also includes a safety flag.
- The twin tunnel hull design offers excellent stability for a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak.
- Made of an exceptionally durable high molecular weight polyethylene, our kayaks require less materials to be built. At 6 ft and weighing only 20 lb, it's perfectly scaled down in size to suit smaller paddlers.
- Designed with an open cockpit, molded carrying handle for easy carrying, this lightweight kayak provides is the perfect first watercraft for your young ones.
- The Twin Tunnel makes it easily maneuverable and provides Ultra Stability which allows quick mastering of the kayak. This Self-bailing Sit-On kayak has a maximum capacity of 100 lb. / 45, 4 kg.
- Has a Swim-up rear deck with a handle so you can easily board the kayak from the water.
- Inspired by the Award-Winning Hi Life – All the fun of kayaking and stand up paddle boarding combined into one kid centric package
- Hybrid approach to Kids kayaking - It can be paddled standing or sitting
- Comes with a bright yellow, perfectly kid sized, 2- piece paddle that features smaller blades and handle diameter for small hands
- FREE CUSTOMIZATION; Each ornament will be personalized to your specific request and will look unique like each of us. We are very excited to bring our Christmas Market experience online with careful craftsmanship with LOVE. 💖
- HANDMADE ; All ornaments are made with Resin and hand painted. Each one comes with a ribbon loop for easy hanging on the tree. 🎄
- FAST SHIPPING: We prepare most orders in just 1 day to make sure they arrive on time! Our primary goal is to bring joyful moments this Magical Christmas Season! ✨
- Recommended for ages 5 and up with adult supervision
- Durable high-density polyethylene (HDPE) construction
- Multiple footrest positions for different size paddlers
- 3-piece Assembly for compact storage
- Heavy metal free and Phthalate free
- Kid-sized ribbed blades
Top 17 Best Kayaks For Kids Reviews 2021
Sevylor Quikpak K5 Kayak
- 5-minute setup lets you spend more time on the water
- Easy-to-carry backpack system turns into the seat
- 24-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
Another product from Sevylor we want to show you today is the model K5.
This kayak features the revolutionary backpack system that holds everything you need to get moving and, at the end of the day, folds into your kayak seat. Also, there are 24-gauge PVC construction, the rough tarpaulin base, and the heavy polyester cover comfortably withstand the rigors of the lake.
Moreover, just in case you encounter a snag, the multiple air chambers will help you get back to the sea. Spray covers will help keep you dry from splashing water. Finally, the D-Rings and bungee storage areas allow you to carry more easily accessible gear on your ride.
Features:
Easy-to-be-carry backpack device transforms into a seat
Tarpaulin bottom and polyester cover provide durable protection against punctures
Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to remain inflated when one is punctured
Double Lock valves use two locking points for fast inflation and deflation.
Pros
- High-quality build
- Comfortable seat
- Easy to pack
- Perfect size
- Highly responsive maneuvering
- Easy to dry
Cons
- Too expensive for some people
- Badly-designed paddles
- You need to purchase separately other ones
Intex Challenger Kayak Series
- Nimble, durable kayak is made of durable welded material with eye catching graphics for added safety on the lake or slow moving river
- Cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space, and inflatable I beam floors add stability. Removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- Cargo net to store extra gear, and grab line on both ends of kayak; inflatable seat with backrest
If your children are newbies to the subject of kayaking, this could be the one for you!
This kayak is made of durable welded plastic with eye-catching graphics for added protection on the lake or slow-moving river. Moreover, the cockpit is designed for comfort and full space. Also, the inflatable beam floors add stability. For this feature, your children can enjoy kayaking and do not afraid that everything will go wrong if they make mistakes or do not handle the kayak well.
Also, there is a cargo net to store extra gear and to grab a line on both ends of a kayak. There is an inflatable seat with a backrest, adding comfort while sitting. Besides, it comes with an 84-inch aluminum oar, repair patch, hi-performance manual hand pump, and hardened vinyl construction.
Features:
A weight of 27.2 pounds and a maximum volume of 220 pounds.
Durable welded plastic with eye-catching graphics
The inflatable beam floors
A cargo net
84-inch aluminum oar
Repair patch
Hi-performance manual hand pump
Hardened vinyl construction
Pros
- Simple repair
- Sturdy
- Thick material
- Compact
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- Paddles are quite short
- Hull space is quite small
Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
- 5-minute setup lets you spend more time on the water
- Easy-to-carry backpack system turns into the seat
- 21-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
In case you want to find an easy-to-transport kayak, this could be the one for you!
Firstly, we have to congratulate you that this kayak requires little time to set up, only 5 minutes. In this way, you can spend more time on the water. Cool, right? Moreover, it includes an easy-to-be-carry backpack device that transforms into a seat. We think that this feature will bring convenience to you when you transport the kayak in your car. It will not take too much space from other kinds of stuff
Moreover, the 21-gauge PVC construction is rugged for use by the lake. Also, the tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection against punctures. Besides, multiple air chambers allow another chamber to remain inflated when one is punctured. Furthermore, an airtight device is guaranteed to prevent leakage.
Other features are double locking valves that use two locking points for fast inflation or deflation, backrest allows you to lean back and enjoy your journey, multi-position footrest helps you to find the most comfortable position. Finally, a secure storage area helps you to store products with bungees safely.
Features:
5 minutes set up
An easy-to-be-carry backpack device that transforms into a seat
The 21-gauge PVC construction
The tarpaulin bottom
Multiple air chambers
An airtight device
Double locking valves
Backrest
Multi-position footrest
A secure storage area
Pros
- Strong material
- Easy-to-use, dual-action pump
- Comfortable seat
- Sturdy
- Easy to maneuver
- Affordable
- Well-designed kayak
- Easy to inflate
- Paddles and tracks very well
Cons
- Slow
- Doesn’t have much room to carry anything along, especially if you have the air pump on board with you
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak
- Specifically designed for kids ages 5 and up; 130 LB weight capacity
- Lightweight 18 Lb. design with molded finger handles on each side for easy transport
- Sloped at the end with a swim-up step allowing rider to easily re-enter the kayak from the water
If this is the first time your kids have ever sit alone in a kayak, this could be a perfect choice for a new beginning.
This product is specially built for children aged 5 and up. We have to say that this kayak is suitable for a wide range of ages. Therefore, you don’t have to worry that your children may face danger. That’s not gonna happen, we can assure that! Moreover, it provides you with 130 Lb of weight capacity. We think it’s quite an outstanding number for a kayak for kids.
Furthermore, it is styled with shaped finger handles on each side for fast transport. Also, it contains a slope at the end with a swim-up move allowing the rider to quickly re-enter the kayak from the water. Now, your children don’t have to put a lot of effort into re-entering the kayak after a capsize. What a relief, right?
Additionally, this kayak is manufactured from high-density polyethylene for superior strength and longevity. As you know, durability is the top-priority factor that the manufacturers care about. And high-density polyethylene is the material that helps them express their concerns to their customers.
Finally, there are multiple footrest locations for various sizes of riders, which are backed by a restricted manufacturer warranty for 5 years.
Features:
Suitable for a wide range of ages
130 Lb of weight capacity
Shaped finger handles on each side
A slope at the end with a swim-up move
High-density polyethylene
Multiple footrest locations
A restricted manufacturer warranty for 5 years
Pros
- Perfect for various ages
- Good for beginners
- Stable
- Fair price
- The weight and size are appropriate
- Sturdy
Cons
- Awful tracking for some people
Kayak Lifetime, 6′, Youth, with Bonus Paddle
- About this Item The 6 ft. Lifetime Wave Kayak is specifically designed for kids ages 5 and up, or up to 130 lbs. The wide stance provides a stable paddling platform to keep your child safely in the kayak. Its sloped back end and swim-up step allows the rider to easily re-enter the kayak from the water. With scupper holes, multiple footrest positions, and great stability, the Wave is perfect for kids recreational kayaking. Back
If you are trying to find a kayak that is simple in design and reliable on the water, this could be the one for you!
This product features 3 spots of the footrest, which is ideal for children aged 5 years with a loading weight of 130 lbs, and the height is 6′. Moreover, for tracing and surfing, this kayak includes molded paddles. Also, to sew the cockpit area, there are sewerage holes.
Furthermore, the grooved cockpit of the kayak secures the kids from every angle. With a backrest, the propelling is long and easy while providing the user with the highest level of comfortability. The ergonomic design will improve your children’s balancing skills and encourage them to experience the beautiful sceneries with a sense of curiosity.
Also, bungee cords and net fabric enclosure help hold bottles and individual kinds of stuff in positions to ensure healthy water fun. Additionally, the front carrying handle is designed for single-handed pulling and traveling. Finally, this kayak also comes with handy handles for different moving positions on each foot.
Features:
3 footrest positions
A maximum weight capacity of 130 lbs
Molded paddles
Drainage holes
Bungee straps and mesh fabric
The front carrying handle
Handy handles
Pros
- Comfortable seat
- Perfect size
- Stable
- Functional
- Comes with paddle
- Can be used in multi-scenario: can play in the pool, sea or lakes
Cons
- None
Perception Hi Five Sit on Top Kids Kayak
- Inspired by the award-winning Hi Life – all the fun of kayaking and stand up paddle boarding combined into one kid centric package
- Hybrid approach to Kids kayaking - It can be paddled standing or sitting
- Comes with a bright yellow, perfectly kid sized, 2- piece paddle that features smaller blades and handle diameter for small hands
Another product you want to introduce to you is the kayak from Perception.
With this product, you can paddle even when you sit or stand. This product features a vivid yellow, the size that is suitable for kids, featuring small hands diameter handle.
Also, the uplifted seat makes it easy to sit on the paddling. Additionally, the large cockpit is appropriate for children to paddle while standing. The swim-up deck makes the re-climbing on board easier and is great for pets and storage gear, kits. Finally, the kid hitch and a cord that anchors to a fixed point that allows kids to tie their boat to mom and dad’s and get a tow when they’re tired, or just for fun.
Features:
A bright yellow, perfectly kid-size
d, 2-piece paddle
Smaller bladesSmall hands diameter handle
The elevated seat
The large front deck area
The rear swim-up deck
The kid hitch and tether system
Pros
- Great quality product
- Lightweight
- Stable
- Easy to maneuver
- Paddle is included
- Fun color choices
Cons
- None
Pelican Solo 6 Feet Sit-on-top Youth Kayak
- Designed with an open cockpit, molded carrying handle for easy carrying, this lightweight kayak provides is the perfect first watercraft for your young Ones.
- The twin tunnel makes it easily maneuverable and provides ultra stability which allows quick mastering of the kayak. This self-bailing Sit-On kayak has a maximum capacity of 100 lb. / 45, 4 kg.
- Has a swim-up rear deck with a handle so you can easily board The kayak from the water.
If you intend to give your children an easy-to-handle kayak, this could be the one for you!
For your information, this kayak is a highly versatile six-foot kayak that is perfectly scaled down in size to accommodate smaller paddlers. It is built with an accessible cockpit, and an easy-carried handle, which is ideal for your young ones. Also, its loading capacity is 100 Lb.
Moreover, the twin-tube allows easy navigation and offers ultra stability that allows the kayak to be mastered quickly. Additionally, it comes with a swim-up back deck with a handle so you can quickly get a kayak out of the water. Now you don’t have to struggle with this situation anymore!
Furthermore, there are footrests to suit a comfortable propelling position, a paddle park to place your paddle when not in use, a cup holder in front of the seat, and a sewage plug to prevent water from infiltrating.
Finally, one of the exceptional features of this kayak is that it contains a safety flag so that you can keep your eyes on them while your children play on the water. Being a parent, keeping your children safe is the top-priority duty. Therefore, we know that this feature will help you a lot!
Features:
An open cockpit
Molded carrying handle
The loading capacity of 100 Lb
The twin tunnel
A swim-up back deck with a handle
Molded footrests
A paddle park
A bottle holder
A drain plug
A safety flag
Pros
- Sturdy
- Highly maneuverable
- Durable
- Easy-to-use
- Good value for the money
Cons
- Backrests and paddles are not included
Perception Prodigy XS Kayak For Kids
- The ultimate sit-inside kayak for kids and Petite paddlers - Made in USA
- Sets the standard for confidence-building stability, comfort, and performance
- Suitable Water Types: Flat, Slow-Moving, Calm Coastal
If you intend to bring your kid to the long kayaking trip, this could be the one for you!
For your information, this is the ultimate sit-in kayak for kids and petite paddlers, which is made in the USA. This kayak sets the standard for confidence-building stability, comfort, and efficiency. Therefore, you don’t have to worry too much about the quality. We are sure that you will be given a high-quality product, matching your expectation.
This kayak features integrated front and rear float for built-in buoyancy and enhanced protection, which is a feature not found in many children’s kayaks. Moreover, it’s lightweight and easy to carry with just 26 lbs featuring front and back carrying handles.
Furthermore, there is a high-quality comfort seat with dense padding and spurt adjustability. Also, there are quick-adjusted footrests for paddlers of all sizes. Additionally, there are bungee rope lashes in front hold the gear within easy reach. Finally, the leg padding around the cockpit edge is created to add comfort and support.
Features:
The boat’s length at 10 inches, the width at 23 inches
Boat Weight: 26 lbs
Integrated front and rear float
Front and back carrying handles
A high-quality comfort seat with dense padding and spurt adjustability
Quick-adjusted footrests
Bungee rope lashes in front hold the gear
The leg padding around the cockpit edge
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Stable
- Fast
- Comfortable
- Light and easy to carry
Cons
- None
Sun Dolphin Aruba SS 8-Foot Sit-in Kayak
- Great for rivers and lakes
- Adjustable padded seat back
- Light weight design easy to carry
Another Sun Dolphine product you want to introduce to you today is the Sun Dolphin Aruba SS.
If your children don’t want to get wet while kayaking, this could be a suitable kayak for your children because it’s a sit-inside kayak. The suitable environment for this kayak is lakes and rivers and for those excluded fishing spots. Therefore, keep in mind not to bring your kayak to unsuitable places, to avoid any punctures or hits.
Moreover, it can tracks and paddles with ease, providing maximum stability. And, there is a big, comfortable sitting area with an adjustable upholstered seat to keep you comfortable for the entire trip. Additionally, there are adjustable foot bracelets, carrying handles, built-in storage well for storing things for your journey, and shock cord rigging.
Features:
Tracks and paddles with ease
A big, comfortable sitting area with an adjustable upholstered seat
Adjustable foot bracelets
Carrying handles
Built-in storage well
Shock cord rigging
Pros
- Nicely built
- Comfortable seats
- Easy to maneuver
- Great for beginners
- Perfect size
- Easy to travel with
- Not heavy to haul
Cons
- The sides are too high
- No footrests
Airhead Montana Kayak
- 9-foot, 1-man inflatable kayak; designed for lakes and moderate white water
- All 3 air chambers are completely enclosed by rugged 840-denier nylon with
- Lightweight, compact, and portable
In case you want to find an inflatable kayak that is great for camping, vacations, discovering the outskirts, and sailing yachts, this could be the one for you!
About the environment, this kayak is designed for lakes and medium currents. Therefore, you need to remember to use the kayak in appropriate environments to avoid punctures or hits.
Moreover, it is crafted with inflated seats with flexible backrest and net pockets. Also, the 4 bottom fins provide low drag and exceptional tracing. Additionally, 3 air spaces are fully enclosed by a rate of 840-denier nylon, which indicates a strong, and thick fabric with UV and waterproof coatings.
Finally, the kayak is designed with highly visible orange for protection. Now you don’t have to worry about your children may face danger while on the water. The color orange is easy to spot and we are certain this color will help you keep an eye on your children.
In general, this kayak is lightweight, compact, and portable and if you have an eye for it, don’t hesitate and buy it now!
Features:
Is designed for lakes and moderate white water
Inflatable seats with adjustable support backrest and mesh pockets
4 bottom fins
3 air spaces
UV and waterproof coatings.
The color orange for extra safety on the water
Exceptional tracing grab handles for simple fitting and pull-out
This 9-foot travel kayak fits comfortably into the trunk of your vehicle, backpack, or suitcase.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact, portable
- Easy and quick to assemble/disassemble
- Comfortable and adjustable seat
- Durable
- Easy to inflate
- Affordable
- Good quality kayak
Cons
- Drying takes considerably longer
- The seat is only fine for short sessions
Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 Kayak
- Rigid bow and stern - Built-in rigid panels define the bow and stern and improve tracking.
- Tube cover - Inner tube cover adds stiffness and abrasion protection.
- Durable and light - Unique outer cover provides durability in a lightweight design.
If you are looking for a portable and easy to carry a kayak, this could be the one for you!
This kayak is suitable in some environments such as lakes, moderate rivers, bays, and more. Moreover, there are built-in rigid arrow and arrow panels to enhance tracking. Also, quick-inflating twist lock and high-flow spring valves are created for quick installation.
Additionally, there is a padded seat, molded rubber-grip handles, and a bungee deck lacing. Finally, the kayak comes with a 250-pound weight capacity, measurement at 8 feet 4 inches in length.
Features:
- Its bow and stern have fixed rigid shapes that help you cut through the waves and keep you on track.
- An inner tube cover for improved stiffness and longevity
- An inflatable seat rest
- Foam base
- Paddle loops
- A tracking fin
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
- Tough
- Stable
- Handles well
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- The level of customer satisfaction is relatively high so there’s nothing to worry about
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem KayakOcean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Kayak
- Enjoy sun and surf with a friend or a furry companion with the kayak's three seating positions, which support solo, tandem, or tandem paddling with a child or pet.
- A pair of Comfort Plus seats provide four-way adjustability, generating a custom fit and greater slip prevention over molded seats.
- Patented overlapping foot wells allow center-seated paddlers to settle in and brace their feet comfortably.
If you are searching for a tandem kayak for kids to paddle together, this could be the one for you!
With this product, you will be pleased with the sunshine and enjoy surfing with a mate or a kayak partner in three sitting positions that support a solo, a built-for-two adventure, and a built-for-two adventure with your children or even your pets. We think that this kayak will make the family adventure more enjoyable.
This kayak features two Comfort Plus seats that offer maneuverability in 4 styles, allow customization, and prevent the slipping of the subsequent materials from the substrate material of seats. Moreover, the overlaying foot wells allow the paddlers that sit in the center to fit in and get their legs comfortably inside the kayak. We see that this enables more space for paddles.
Finally, the free, sitting-on-top hull permits you to easily get inside and get out of the kayak. And there will be a hull’s unlimited warranty.
Features:
The full weight of 425 pounds; 12 feet long and 34 inches tall.
A pair of comfort plus seats
Patented overlapping footwells
The free, sit-on-top hull
A pair of molded handles and skid plates
A lifetime warranty on the hull
Pros
- Stable
- Nice colors, easy to spot
- Tracks well
- Easy to carry
- Simple to set up
- Comfortable seats
Cons
- Have some minor design flaws
Best Choice Products Kids Kayak
Another kayak we want to introduce to you today is the kayak from Best Choice Products.
This product is designed with an open cockpit, molded-in safety legs, and a front toggle handle with an easy-to-roll skeg wheel. Moreover, a 2-fin paddle is also included for easy rowing.
Furthermore, it’s made with a cup holder and a bottle holder. With this feature, your children can enjoy the drinks while kayaking. And they can remember to keep themselves always hydrated. Also, a rear cargo storage compartment protected by net lacing, and a front storage area with a bungee cord.
And now we will come to the gift from the manufacturers for parents. It’s the backrest. With this feature, children would be able to walk the water in maximum comfort, as the kayak is built with a padded backrest that can be easily folded down. Now, your children will not feel uncomfortable while kayaking. They will enjoy the fun in the water.
Also, it is made of durable, UV-resistant plastic, preserves its color, and guarantees years of use. You can leave your kayak under the sun without worrying that it may damage due to the sun rays.
Finally, you can take this lightweight kayak to the lake, beach, or shore, as built-in side handles provide no on-the-go hassle. Transportation is easy than ever!
Features:
An open cockpit
Molded-in safety legs
A front toggle handle with an easy-to-roll skeg wheel
A 2-fin paddle
Cup holder and a bottle holder
A rear cargo storage compartment
A front storage area with a bungee cord
Comfortable backrest
Durable, UV-resistant plastic
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- Portable
- Tracks well
- Great for the price
- Easy to pick up
- Great design
Cons
- Unusable paddle. You will need to purchase separately
Emotion 90245 Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak
- Constructed of High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durability; 240 lb. weight capacity
- ST Performance Hull offers execptional stability and tracking
- Front, rear, and side carry handles for easy transport
If you are looking for a high-performance and high-quality kayak, this could be the right fit for you. This kayak is constructed of high-density polyethylene for superior strength and durability. For your information, polyethylene is one of the most common materials when it comes to producing kayak. And it can ensure toughness for the kayak. Moreover, the loading capacity can be up to 240 Lb.
Furthermore, the ST performance hull provides outstanding stability and monitoring. Also, the hull is supported by a 5-year restricted manufacturer’s warranty. Center, rear, and side handles are created for fast transport.
Finally, there is a rear tank well with net cargo lacing for storage. Now your children can bring their belongings without worrying about where to put them while kayaking. And folded-in footwells are here for convenience and safe foot bracing.
In general, this kayak comes with a secure and sit-on-top configuration. If you have an eye on it, don’t hesitate and buy it right away!
Features:
High-density polyethylene
The loading capacity of 240 Lb
ST performance hull
Center, rear, and side handles
A rear tank well with net cargo lacing for storage
Folded-in footwells
A secure and sit-on-top configuration
Pros
- Highly maneuverable
- All-purpose kayak
- Perfect for adult and youth use
- Well worth the money
- Suitable shape and weight
Cons
- Some people receive damaged kayaks
Sun Dolphin Bali Sit-on-top Kayak
- Lightweight, easy to carry, great for all
- Tracks and paddles with ease while offering maximum stability
- Open cockpit allows the easiest of entry
If you are excited about the family water fun, this kayak could be the product that you’ve been looking for. This product tracks and paddles easily while offering maximum stability. Therefore, you don’t have to worry that your children may deal with dangerous situations while kayaking. We can be sure that they will have fun with safety.
Moreover, it is considered a flexible, lightweight, and perfect kayak for a wide range of ages. You can be relieved that you don’t have to put much effort into carrying the kayak around. We see that this is not a hard duty for you anymore!
Furthermore, an open cockpit makes the fastest entry and the graduated foot wells are molded to accommodate paddlers of any size. Also, there is a wide, comfortable seating area, and self-bailing. With this feature, you will enjoy hours under the water without feeling uncomfortable and awkward. Finally, there is a comfortable holder for the paddle.
Features:
Tracks and paddles easily
A flexible, lightweight, and perfect kayak for a wide range of ages
An open cockpit
The graduated footwells
A wide, comfortable seating area, and self-bailing
A comfortable holder
Pros
- Stable
- Bright colors and easy to spot
- Easily get in and out of the water
- Great price
- Deep seat
- High weight limit
- Sturdy
- Easy to paddle
Cons
- The included paddles are in poor quality
- The self-bailing feature does not go all the way through
Old Town Heron Junior Recreational Kayak
- Designed for kids, the Old Town Heron Junior Recreational Kayak has an ultra-lightweight single-layer polyethylene hull that's made to be nimble and maneuverable for the smaller paddler.
- Shaped to fit a child's body, the kayak's padded, contoured seat provides comfort and added control for a day of fun on the water. Featuring a lightweight foam billet, the Heron Junior is exceptionally stable and easy to handle.
- Bow and stern carry handles make transporting the Heron Junior to and from the water easy and quick.
If you want to find a sit-inside kayak for your children, we highly recommend this product. For your information, this kayak is made by Old Town, which is the oldest and largest maker of canoes and kayaks in the world. Looking through their products, we can see that the design remains true to its Northeast roots and a long tradition of quality craftsmanship. We think you see that from this mentioned kayak.
Built for youngsters, this kayak has an ultra-light single-layer polyethylene hull that is designed to be nimble and maneuverable for smaller paddlers. Moreover, the kayak’s padded, contoured seat offers support and added control over a day of water fun.
Furthermore, featuring a light foam billet, the Heron Junior is extremely stable and easy to manage for children. You don’t have to worry that your kids may face danger in this kayak. This kayak offers them maximum safety.
Also, bow and stern carrying handles make it easy and fast to move the Heron Junior to and from the water. Additionally, this kayak has a large maximum load capacity of 115-pound and has a limited lifetime warranty.
Finally, when small arms get tired of paddling and splashing, the revolutionary Heron Junior tag-along tow system makes it easy to take a kayak to the shore if needed. You don’t have to afraid that your children may get stuck in the middle of nowhere. You’ve got the tool the rescue them!
Features:
An ultra-light single-layer polyethylene hull
A padded, contoured seat
A light foam billet
Bow and stern carrying handles
The load capacity of 115-pound
A limited lifetime warranty
The tag-along tow system
Pros
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Easy to maneuver
- Stable
- Easy to handle
- Easy to move the kayak to and from the water
Cons
- None
Ocean Kayak Banzai Kids’ Kayak
- The kayak's low-profile, kid-friendly contoured seat supports easy movement and added mobility for small bodies.
- An essential for parents, the Banzai's Tag Along System allows the towing of kids when they're too tired to paddle.
- Molded-in side handles and bow/stern toggle handles make the kayak easy to haul from the car to the water.
If you are searching for a kayak for your older children, this could be the one that you are looking for!
This kayak measures 9 feet 6 inches and weighs 36 pounds with a loading capacity of 230 pounds. With this number, we see that it’s suitable for older children.
Moreover, the low-profile, child-friendly contoured seat of the kayak facilitates simple movement and improved mobility for small bodies. Also, there are molded side handles and the bow/stern toggle handles make the kayak easy to move from the car to the water. Therefore, you don’t have to attempt too much to transport the kayak to the water.
Furthermore, there is another feature that we think you – as a parent, will like this. It’s the Banzai Tag Along Device that allows children to be towed when they’re too tired to paddle. We think this helps to solve your concern that you may not find ways to rescue your children while they’re exhausted.
Finally, with the molded cup holder, your children will always keep themselves hydrated. We think it’s a great feature because you don’t have to remind them too much about drinking water. The cup holder has helped you!
Feature:
Measurement: 9 feet 6 inches in length, 36 pounds weight, a loading capacity of 230 pounds
The low-profile, child-friendly contoured seat
Molded side handles and the bow/stern toggle handles
The Banzai Tag Along Device
The molded cup holder
Pros
- Relatively light-weight
- Turns easily, which makes it easier for kids to control
- Enjoyable kayak
- Great quality for the price
- Also suitable for adults with an average size
Cons
- Food rests are quite far
Buying Guide: How To Pick The Best Kayaks For Kids In 2021
After reading our top 17 best kayaks for kids, some of you may feel overwhelmed, like you don’t know where to begin or what to begin. We completely understand this concern and we are sure that many parents out there have been through this before. As a parent, you want your children to have as much fun as possible. In contrast, you also want to keep them safe and prevent any dangerous situation they may encounter. When it comes to kayaking, a watery activity, your worry may level up. To some of you, choosing the best kayaks for kids is also a difficult task for you.
Knowing your concern, below here, we’ve made a list of important criteria you need to pay maximum attention to when deciding to buy a kayak for your children. Please take this section into serious consideration because it will be a big help for you for your future purchase.
Now, let’s jump to the buying guide and clear your worry
Length
If you are familiar with buying adult kayaks, you will see that it is easy for you to choose a kayak because every kayak comes with a specific length. However, it’s different from kid kayaks. The kid kayaks are quite short. In our opinion, short kayaks are more suitable for children than long kayaks. The reason is that it is easier for kids to track, paddle, and to transport, carry. Many kayaks are even designed to be able to fit with most kids, therefore, it doesn’t have the length measurement.
We think that the factor you need to consider more is the loading capacity, which is the factor we will discuss right below here.
Loading Capacity
As you can see above our reviews, we’ve mentioned the loading capacity in almost every product. You can also see this piece of information is the product’s description. You will choose a suitable kayak based on information about the range of adequate users’ weight.
If your children’s weight is below the range, we highly recommend you to wait for a little time because your children may not properly fit in the kayak. This may cause danger or some troubles while kayaking. Additionally, if your children’s weight is in the range, you’re good to go! Nothing to be worried about!
In contrast, if your kids’ weight is above the range, you may consider buying them a full-size kayak because the kid kayak maybe not appropriate for them anymore. They are ready to upgrade!
Includes A Tow Rope
Some of you may find this criterion is strange. However, when your kids have kayaks and you have to deal with them, you will thank us later.
During kayaking, your children must be tired, exhausted after hours under the water. Unlike adults, who will keep kayaking until they reach the land, kids can give up right away. If your kids are in that circumstance, and you don’t equip the kayak with a tow rope, it’s hard to save or help them get out of the water.
Therefore, remember to tie the tow rope in front of the kayak. Next time your children are fatigue, you can tow them out of the brush, out of the river, the lake, or tow them along with you.
Believe us, once you own tow ropes, you will find a thousand ways to use them to keep children safe.
Price
This is one of the most important factors you have to consider before buying kayaks. We are certain that your financial situation is limited and you want to find affordable kayaks. We think that this also depends on your children’s preferences.
You may want to buy a cheaper kayak for your children with fewer features, simply a basic kayak if you think your children will grow fast and you want to make sure that they will pursue kayaking in the long-term before investing more.
On the other hand, you will choose the more expensive model with a few features if you want to give your children the best experience they could have ever tried.
In general, this solely depends on you so remember to choose wisely.
Style
About the style, you need to make a decision based on what’s suitable for both you and your children. You may think that solid kayaks are more durable than inflatable kayaks. We have to tell you that this is not entirely true. Nowadays, inflatable kayaks are more and more durable, stable, and sturdy. Another good thing is that they take up little storage space. Therefore, you don’t have to worry that it’s hard to transport. The truth is the opposite!
However, every style has its benefits and drawbacks. The question you need to ask yourself is that do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks and encourage you to choose it. If the answer is yes, go for it! After all, it only depends on your children and yourself.
Stability
Your children are newbies in kayaking so this could be the most important factor you need to consider. Your children will surely need a kayak that doesn’t easily capsize, or balances well while paddling.
If the kayak is unstable, they may feel terrified, clumsily attempt to control the boat, which may lead to capsizing. Consequently, they may fear kayaking and don’t want to enter the kayak again.
Therefore, in our opinion, the best kayaks for kids should be the ones to ensure safety and stability for them. In this way, they can enjoy the art of kayaking and have fun!
Durability
While kayaking, your children can be pretty tough. Because of this, you need to find a kayak with extra durability. Make sure to check whether the kayak you have an eye for is resistant to some punctures or hits. The easiest way to check is to carefully read reviews from previous customers. They are the ones that will give you valuable information because they have directly used the product so they will provide realistic reviews. Don’t simply believe the brands’ advertisements.
FAQ: How To Prepare For An Amazing Kayaking With Your Children
Before The Trip
You need to make a list of necessary tools and kinds of stuff to bring along. For clothing, you surely need to bring the lifesize jacket, the most important things to keep you and your children safe. With children under 7 years old, bring extra clothes would be necessary because they may accidentally make themselves wet. Remember to wear waterproof clothes to avoid uncomfortable while kayaking.
For food, you should bring healthy, easy-to-carry food like nuts, apples, hard-boiled eggs, and some veggies. And you have to remind your children drinking water throughout the journey to always keep themselves hydrated. And you too, remind yourself that!
During The Trip
On the day of the trip, remember to fully eat, drink, and put on some sunscreen. You surely don’t want your skin to be burned after the trip.
While on the water, firstly, you should straightly provide them the rules, and the consequences they may face if they don’t follow the rules.
Secondly, you should teach them some basic techniques such as drawing in the eddy, bracing against the surge, and controlling the currents.
After providing rules and teaching, give them the opportunities to practice. You could exchange turn, you the first turn, and your children the second turn. In this way, your children can both practice what they have learned and feel relaxed while enjoying beautiful sceneries.
After The Trip
Make comments about some mistakes your children still make when paddling. Remember to only criticize them after the trip. Nobody wants to hear negative feedback during the journey. This will put your children into a stressful situation where they don’t fully express themselves because they have already lacked confidence.
If you want to spend more weekends with your children kayaking, don’t be too harsh on them. After all, this is only an outdoor activity, which is an occasion for you to get closer to your children and enjoy the scenery. Don’t ruin it.
For the first-time buyer, we think that this video can be a great help to you:
Final Thoughts Of The Best Kayaks For Kids
After reading our reviews and a buying guide, we are sure that some of you here may decide on the best kayaks for kids. However, most of you here still feel overwhelmed, and confused, like there is a lot of information that you need to process in a short time. Don’t worry about that, we are certain that many people out there have struggled with this situation like you.
The first thing you need to do right now is to do more research about kayaks. Understand their specifications, crucial factors when determining the best kayaks for your children. After some time, you can re-read our articles and easily understand everything we have talked about in this review.
And who knows, you may accidentally find the best kayaks for kids that matches your needs and budget. I hope this guide will be helpful to you in finding the best kayaks for kids for your budget, needs, and preference. If you would like to comment or require further information, please use my contact form to get in contact.
Good luck with your research
Goodbye and see you in our next review.
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