What kind of kayak should you buy for your child? Which type of kayak is best?
Here's an overview of each type of kayak, with reviews and suggestions below.
Inflatable Kayaks for kidsInflatable kayaks are the easiest kayak to travel with and are affordable. They are made of a very durable material. Inflatable kayaks work for not only kids, but for adults in the family as well. Inflatable kayaks can fit inside any vehicle and are easy to store in small spaces. They are appealing to college students, those who travel often, and city or apartment dwellers. They are the least expensive kayaks and can serve the needs of the whole family. Inflatable kayaks are the easiest way to try out the sport of kayaking for those who are hesitant or not sure how often they will use their new kayak. With inflatable kayaks, there is no commitment to store a bulky kayak and the intimidation factor is very low. However, if you have storage and will use your kayak often, you should consider the other kayak options as well. With an inflatable kayak there is the extra step of inflation that is avoided with the other two types of kayaks. If you have a river in your backyard like I do, you would not want to inflate a kayak when you can just throw one in the water everyday. For those without storage wanting to try a kayak, this is the clear winner.
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Sit-on-top kayaks for kidsSit-on-top kayaks are the easiest kayaks for all beginners and especially those with very young children. They are affordable, safe and they are fun. They are an all-around easy option. They don't need to be inflated or deflated, they are easy enough to travel with, they don't sink, you can't poke a hole in one, and they are easy to store. No previous experience or skill is needed to use a new sit-on-top kayak in calm water, making them really fun for families, friends, reunions, parties, etc. When they arrive, they are easy to throw in the water (or even a swimming pool for the smaller child-sized ones) to start paddling around. Sit-on-top kayaks come in sizes ranging from 6-feet for the youngest children and go up to sizes that fit teens and adults, 9 to 14-feet long. Some sit-on-top kayaks also can hold multiple paddlers, which are called tandem kayaks. Many sit-on-top kayaks are also used for fishing. For a more in-depth article about the different types of kayaks, click here and for a guide detailing what age kids can use different types of kayaks, click here. If your family is just getting into kayaking and you have no idea where to start, a sit-on-top kayak is always a great place to start. It's an easy entry into the world of paddling without a lot to buy or learn to get started. For casual family fun at the lake with kids and friends, the sit-on-top kayak is the clear winner.
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Traditional Kayaks for KidsTraditional sit-inside kayaks are nimble and efficient when you are paddling longer distances. They are also easier to stay dry in and have more space for storing things. They cost more than sit-on-top and inflatable kayaks, and range in quality from entry level (cheaper construction) to very high quality (more money). With a sit-inside kayak your child will need an experienced paddler to teach them paddling and safety skills, because unlike a sit-on-top kayak, sit-inside kayaks can tip over (capsize) and take on water, requiring a paddler to know how to safely get out of a flipped kayak, also called a wet-exit, use a spray skirt, bail out a kayak, and how to re-enter a flipped kayak. For families who plan to use their kayaks for more than casual lake outings, this kayak is the clear winner.
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Kayak Reviews
INFLATABLE KAYAKS
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Best high-quality inflatable kayak for the whole family to use - converts from tandem to solo
Advanced Element's AdvanceFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak An amazing combination of features making it the best of both worlds - an easy to store and transport inflatable kayak, yet it's also a substantial metal-framed kayak that can convert from solo to tandem. Stable, a roomy 15 feet, durable, easy to set up (open the box and inflate, the frame is preassembled), and comes with two comfortable seats. Weight limit generously goes all the way up to 550 lbs so you can pack the kids and dog into it for a fun day at the river or lake. Holds two adults or an adult and teen, child or dog, or an adult and two small kids. As is, it works great for all calm conditions, but the company also has many additions you can buy to upgrade it with stiffer floors and other accessories for tracking better through rougher waters. See current prices and pics here. Important note, you need to buy a paddle and pump separately. Advanced elements sells a pump and paddles, but for more paddle options, especially for kids and teens read paddle suggestions here. |
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Best entry-level inflatable kayak for a traveling family with teens
The Intex Challenger kayak is very affordable and great for children about 10 to 12 years old and up, though it can also work fine for younger children that are bigger/stronger than average. The Challenger consistently has thousands of positive reviews on Amazon. It enables anyone curious about kayaking to have a quality kayaking experience for very little money, even those without storage space. The Challenger includes a paddle and hand pump. It is a perfect first kayak for a family that may not kayak often, doesn't have space or want to worry about storing a traditional-sized kayak. It consistently gets incredibly high reviews and works for smaller sized adults as well, making it fun for family vacations. |
SIT-ON-TOP KAYAKS
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Best for kids age 4-12 brand new to kayaking
Lifetime Wave Kayak (with paddle) OR Lifetime Dash 66 (with paddle) Essentially the same kayak in different lengths. The Wave is 6 feet long and the Dash is 6 feet 6 inches. This is the first kayak my kids started with (Dash). Actually, we have two of them. The price is really affordable, the kayak is worth every penny. The company states that both can work with paddlers as young as 5-years-old, but my 4-year-old paddled it this summer on our calm pond and has been riding on the back as a passenger since he was 3 . My 11-year-old son and his friends also use it and will probably fit in it for a few more years. The weight limit is 130 lbs for the Wave and 150 lbs for the Dash. This kayak is easy to carry and loads of fun for young kids. It is very tough material, light enough for my 9-year-old to drag across the yard himself (it has a nice little built-in carrying handle). My kids love the bright colors they come in. You can get one in hot pink, lime green, bright orange, yellow or blue. Each kid gets their own color, and they think that is awesome. I've noticed that the price goes up and down throughout the year, and largely depends on color, so check here (Wave) and here (Dash) for current rates, colors, and to see better pictures of the top of the kayak. I have not met one parent who has regretted this purchase. Many of our neighbors and friends have bought the Lifetime Wave or Dash kid kayak for their child after kayaking with our family. They are cheap, durable, and so fun and easy to use. If your kids are tiny go with the Wave, otherwise we have loved the Dash and own multiple. The extra 6 inches hasn't seemed to make it any harder for my younger kids and I think it adds more room for towing siblings and to stretch your legs. |
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Best Entry-Level Sit-On-top Kayak for Teens
9.5 Foot Perception Tribe
This versatile entry-level kayak is the next size up from a 6 or 6.5 ft kids kayak in length, making it easy to navigate, but is also very unique in that it easily fits larger paddlers as well (up to 300 lbs). At 9.5 feet, some 10-year-olds and most 12-year-olds (and up) can enjoy using this kayak. It works well for teenagers and small adults. It has an adjustable seat back and cushy padded seat , but you will need to order your own paddle. For this width of kayak (31 1/4"), choose a 230 cm paddle for kids under 6 feet tall and 240 cm paddle for 6 feet and taller. Read my Paddle Guide and Reviews for a paddle to go with this kayak. 
Best For the Whole Family at the Lake
2-Pack Lifetime Tioga The Lifetime brand makes great entry-level kayaks that are dependable and well-designed for beginners. All of my first kayaks were Lifetime and because they were affordable we ended up with many stacked along the back of our yard near the bank of the river and were able to have many family and friends enjoy the river together. This 2-pack is great for a family day at the lake and they will work for everyone 12 and up. Also have a few Lifetime Wave kayaks on hand if you have any little ones under 12 -you won't regret it, and you have the makings of a perfect family reunion or outing. |
SIT-INSIDE KAYAKS
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Very Best Sit-Inside for Kids Age 7+
Perception Prodigy XS Kid Kayak 10 feet long, 23" wide with a weight limit of 150 lbs. These are FAST boats because they weigh only 26 lbs. Quick and easily maneuverable, they are also very stable. At 26 lbs they are light enough for 7-12-year-olds to move around and to help load. They are narrow enough that the kids can use appropriately kid-sized paddles without banging their fingers on the sides. They have real, adjustable foot pegs, which is a huge plus. Petite women also enjoy using this kayak. It comes in a few different colors. For this size of kayak (23" wide) consider a paddle between 190 and 210 cm. (see our paddle guide for kids paddle sizing.) |
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Entry-level Sit-Inside for kids 9 and up
Sun Dolphin Aruba (8 feet) This is great for an entry-level sit-inside kayak for kids. If you read reviews on the 10-foot versions of the same kayak, it gets higher reviews than the 8 foot because these are all silly adults trying to use this smaller kayak that works much better for young people. It is great for kids and teenagers who are just starting out. Believe me, they will have a blast. For 9-year-olds and up, go with the 8 foot. For kids 12 and up, go with the 10-foot (below). Check here for colors and current prices on the 8-foot. (Note: you will also need to purchase a paddle.) For this width of kayak (28"), choose a 220 cm paddle for kids under 6 feet tall and 230 cm paddle for 6 feet and taller. Read my Paddle Guide and Reviews article for the right paddle to go with this kayak. |
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Entry-level Sit-Inside for kids age 12 +
Sun Dolphin Aruba (10 feet) This kayak works great for any kids in the 11 or 12 age range and up. It is well known that this brand is probably one of the cheapest sit-inside kayaks you can buy. Once your child becomes proficient, you can upgrade to high-priced and higher-quality kayak if you want to. I promise that your tween/teen will have a blast with this and won't care or know that you didn't spend big bucks to get their first kayak. Click here to see more photos and the different color options; prices tend to vary by color and season. (Note: the Sun Dolphin Aruba also comes in an 8-foot length; see review above. Also, you will need to purchase a paddle.) For this width of kayak (30"), choose a 230 cm paddle for kids under 6 feet tall and 240 cm paddle for 6 feet and taller. |
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Quality sit-inside for kids best for ages 7 to 8 up to 10 or 11 year olds
Old Town Heron Junior This kid-sized sit-inside is 7 feet and 5 inches long and can hold kids up to 115 lbs. One fun feature of the Heron Junior is that you can tow your tired kid back if they get too tired. The Heron Junior feels like a mini version of your kayak rather than a toy kayak. Choose this sit-inside if you are already a kayaking family that competently uses sit-inside kayaks and want a shorter kayak truly for little ones. This kayak is great quality, but for the price it doesn't last very long because of its size and weight limit. Consider the Perception Prodigy XS listed above if you want a kayak that will last a few more years. The Heron is 7'5" and goes up to 115 lbs while the Prodigy is 10' and goes up to 150 lbs. Both are quality sit-inside kid kayaks. |
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Quality Sit-Inside for age 12+
Old Town Heron 9XT Recreational The Heron 9XT is a dependable and well-loved sit-inside kayak that both you and your older child can use. Kids age 12 and up can certainly paddle it, and some kids who are 10 or 11 may be able to paddle this as well, depending on their size and physical ability. It is 9.5 feet long with a 300 lb weight capacity and it is easy to use for beginners. For some families, it makes more sense to have a kayak that can fit kids and adults, especially if you have an older child or teen. You will need to purchase paddles that will fit whichever family members you plan on using it (see my Paddle Guide and Reviews). For this width of kayak (28.5"), I would suggest choosing a 230 cm paddle for kids under 6 feet tall and 240 cm paddle for 6 feet and taller. |
Generally, if the parents don't already kayak I recommend beginning by purchasing sit-on-tops for the kids and the whole family. There is very little to learn with a sit-on-top kayak, little stress, and no risk of the kayak taking on water. They are a great way to cheaply and quickly get into a paddling sport and it is easy to progress from there to sit-insides or tandems or whatever. For recreational lakes and slow rivers, kids tend to be less intimidated and have more fun with sit-on-tops. However it depends on the type of water you will be paddling in and the type of family you are. Sit-inside kayaks certainly have more potential for more advanced kayaking skills and touring trips in the future. For entry-level family play there is no intimidation factor with sit-on-tops. Whatever you choose, remember life jackets and paddles. HAPPY PADDLING!
Bonus: HYBRID KAYAK/PADDLEBOARD for kids
Perception Hi Five
So fun! This new concept is perfect after a year we have all been inside due to covid. This takes away the decision of whether to try a paddleboard or a kayak. It just makes it easy to get the kids to the lake or pond and have fun being outside. This is on my Christmas list this year for my three boys!
So fun! This new concept is perfect after a year we have all been inside due to covid. This takes away the decision of whether to try a paddleboard or a kayak. It just makes it easy to get the kids to the lake or pond and have fun being outside. This is on my Christmas list this year for my three boys!
(For an in-depth discussion about each type of kids kayak, please read my post KAYAK OPTIONS FOR KIDS)