{"id":2318,"date":"2024-03-30T23:15:48","date_gmt":"2024-03-30T23:15:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/?p=2318"},"modified":"2024-03-30T23:15:50","modified_gmt":"2024-03-30T23:15:50","slug":"best-recreational-kayaks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/best-recreational-kayaks\/","title":{"rendered":"The 8 Best Recreational Kayaks [Honest Reviews]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Looking for a <strong>cheap but stable and reliable<\/strong> way to get on the water?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Few vessels offer easier access at a low price than a recreational kayak. Whether you\u2019re in the market for a <strong>sit-in or sit-on-top model <\/strong>or what water conditions you plan on exploring, there\u2019s a kayak that will fit your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But what\u2019s the <strong>best recreational kayak<\/strong>? In this article, we\u2019ll break down our favorite models in a variety of categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So if you\u2019re looking for the best budget option, a good kayak for beginners, or the best tandem, you\u2019ll find what you\u2019re looking for below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Recreational Kayaks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Recreational Kayak for Beginners: <a href=\"https:\/\/sundolphin.com\/aruba-10\/\">Sun Dolphin Aruba 10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"176\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10-.png\" alt=\"Picture of the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10\" class=\"wp-image-1433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10-.png 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Sun-Dolphin-Aruba-10--150x38.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Getting into a kayak for the first time can be a little intimidating. When you\u2019re looking to buy your first boat, <strong>supreme stability, and a comfortable seat <\/strong>will greatly improve your first few paddling experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Aruba 10 from Sun Dolphin does both of these<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ten-foot-long boat has a wide and reassuring beam so you can feel solid in the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since it\u2019s a sit-in, it\u2019s more streamlined than many sit-on-top recreational models so you can coax a bit more speed out of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This along with the comfortable seat and a <strong>couple of dry storage areas<\/strong>, one of which is accessible from the cockpit, make it a boat that you will soon be paddling with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Only 40 pounds for easy carrying<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tracking and performance can suffer in rough water<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Great maneuverability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/sun-dolphin-aruba-10-review\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1431\">Read our full Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Recreational Kayak for the Money: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dagger.com\/us\/kayaks\/zydeco-90\">Dagger Zydeco 9<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"201\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Dagger-Zydeco-705x201.png\" alt=\"Pic of Zydeco 9.0\" class=\"wp-image-2260\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Dagger-Zydeco-705x201.png 705w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Dagger-Zydeco-150x43.png 150w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Dagger-Zydeco.png 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A little shorter than the Aruba at nine-feet, the Zydeco 9 from Dagger <strong>handles like a sports car<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Capable of tight turns and very responsive, it\u2019s <strong>at home on both calm lakes and some more challenging rivers<\/strong> where that maneuverability can be a huge asset.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another sit-in design, the cockpit has a <strong>spacious cockpit<\/strong> for its size making it easy for paddlers to get in and out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The shorter keel does hamper the top speed and the sub-par load capacity of 220 pounds limits it to day trips. But you can\u2019t beat the price tag of this fun, sporty little boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Top-notch maneuverability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower load capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Comfortable and adjustable seat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Lightweight Recreational Kayak: <a href=\"https:\/\/eddyline.com\/kayak-model\/sky-10\">Eddyline Sky 10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"296\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/SKY-10-LIME-705x296.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Eddyline Sky 10 kayak\" class=\"wp-image-2320\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/SKY-10-LIME-705x296.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/SKY-10-LIME-150x63.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/SKY-10-LIME-1536x644.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/SKY-10-LIME.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Featuring a<strong> big cockpit and dry storage space<\/strong>, the Sky 10 packs a lot into its lightweight design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to sacrifice durability with its light, 32-pound frame though as the<strong> tough ASB laminate plastic<\/strong> can handle just about anything you throw at it (or run into).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At ten-feet long, you can get a bit more speed out of it than some boats on this list, and I love the streamlined design.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Dual dry storage compartments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>One of the easiest boats to transport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tracking lags in wind or inclement waves<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Sit-In Recreational Kayak: <a href=\"https:\/\/oldtowncanoe.johnsonoutdoors.com\/kayaks\/recreation\/vapor-10\">Old Town Vapor 10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/old-town-vapor-10.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Old Town Vapor 10 kayak\" class=\"wp-image-1611\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/old-town-vapor-10.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/old-town-vapor-10-150x105.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Many sit-in kayaks have cramped cockpits that make getting in and out hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a tall paddler, there are some boats that I simply can\u2019t fit in. I\u2019m happy to say the Vapor 10 from Old Town is not one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Vapor 10, you have a boat with an <strong>easy access cockpit<\/strong> that can accommodate paddlers of all sizes despite being just ten feet long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How much room is there? This is one of the few kayaks in the class where<strong> a medium-sized dog can fit comfortably<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need a large spray skirt to keep waves and water out, and even then it\u2019s more susceptible than sit-in boats with smaller cockpits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes it best on calmer water like lakes and protected bays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Large stern hatch is accessible from the cockpit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paddle included<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can fit in the back of some SUVs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Good combination of maneuverability and tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/old-town-vapor-10-review\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1606\">Read our full Old Town Vapor 10 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Lifetime-Daylite-8-ft-Sit-on-top-Kayak-Paddle-Included-90775\/151801297\">Lifetime Daylite Sit-On-Top<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"367\" height=\"208\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/lifetime.jpg\" alt=\"Pic of Lifetime Daylite kayak\" class=\"wp-image-2321\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/lifetime.jpg 367w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/lifetime-150x85.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 367px) 100vw, 367px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve talked about a lot of sit-inside models thus far, so it\u2019s worth highlighting a sit-on-top kayak that is equally impressive\u2212the Lifetime Daylite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a stable kayak<strong> <\/strong>with several different footrest positions and<strong> a comfortable, adjustable seat<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Self-bailing drain holes keep water from pooling in choppy conditions and the boat is responsive and maneuverable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Paddle included<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sub-par top speed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Large open-air stern hatch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Budget Recreational Kayak: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Intex-Explorer-2-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum\/dp\/B00A7EXF4C\">Intex Explorer K2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"711\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/intex-explorer-K2.jpg\" alt=\"Pic of Intex Eplorer K2\" class=\"wp-image-1088\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/intex-explorer-K2.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/intex-explorer-K2-150x104.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Just because you\u2019re bargain hunting doesn\u2019t mean you should sacrifice quality. While this inflatable won\u2019t handle a collision as well as a boat made of solid plastic, the redundancy of <strong>multiple air tubes<\/strong> keeps it afloat even if you do puncture one and the nylon material is surprisingly tough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Able to be paddled by one or two people<\/strong>, the Intex Explorer K2 provides flexibility and easy transport and storage options with its svelte <strong>31-pound weight <\/strong>and the ability to keep it in a closet when not in use.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>backrests are adjustable and really comfortable<\/strong> while the boat handles well and is easy to maneuver, making it another good entry-level boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It <strong>does struggle in wind and waves<\/strong> and as such should be limited to calm lakes and easy-going rivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Comes with two paddles, a pump, and a carry bag<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Great stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can hold 400 pounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/intex-explorer-k2-kayak-review\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1299\">Read our full Intex Explorer K2 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best All-Around Recreational Kayak: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesssystems.com\/us\/kayaks\/pungo-120\">Wilderness Systems Pungo 120<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"147\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Pungo-120-705x147.png\" alt=\"Pic of Wilderness Systems Pungo 120\" class=\"wp-image-2322\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Pungo-120-705x147.png 705w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Pungo-120-150x31.png 150w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Pungo-120.png 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>You won\u2019t find many recreational kayaks that can handle as much as the Pungo 120.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wilderness Systems builds a range of boats from recreational to touring boats able to handle open ocean, and they\u2019ve managed to pack a lot into this model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a <strong>blend of speed, stability, and a comfortable seat<\/strong>, you can take the Pungo 120 on lakes, rivers, and protected ocean environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a load capacity and storage space to allow for quick overnight trips, <strong>it\u2019s a boat that can wear many hats <\/strong>for a cost-efficient price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Versatile boat with the ability for quick overnight trips<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Padded knee braces and adjustable foot pegs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Large watertight stern hatch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Tandem Recreational Kayak:<a href=\"https:\/\/oceankayak.johnsonoutdoors.com\/kayaking\/tandem\/malibu-two\"> Ocean Kayak Malibu Tandem<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"396\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-1-705x396.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4505\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-1-705x396.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-1-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/OCEAN-KAYAK-MALIBU-TWO-1.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A big beefy boat with tons of room, there aren\u2019t many recreational kayaks like this one that <strong>can blow through ocean waves with impunity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With room for two adults and a child, it\u2019s a <strong>great boat for families<\/strong> and the fantastic stability will give parents peace of mind.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The high backed seats are really comfortable with three different positions so you can find the perfect paddling posture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The plastic hull is plenty durable, but I\u2019m a big fan of the <strong>installed skid plate <\/strong>that allows you to drag it over some terrain, a nice feature for a boat that weighs 57 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Large 425 load capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Self-bailing scupper holes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Not much in the way of dry storage space<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Choose the Best Recreational Kayak for You<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comfort and Portability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"706\" height=\"889\" data-id=\"1081\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/man-having-fun-kayaking-706x889.jpg\" alt=\"man having fun kayaking\" class=\"wp-image-1081\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"706\" height=\"678\" data-id=\"777\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/How-to-choose-a-kayak-706x678.png\" alt=\"Man with a kayak in his hand.\" class=\"wp-image-777\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re just getting started, choosing a boat that\u2019<strong>s easy to move from place to place <\/strong>and <strong>comfortable to sit in<\/strong> is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Few things will drain the fun out of kayaking faster than lugging a heavy boat around or feeling a knot in your back.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you find a boat with<strong> strong, easy-grip handles, for easy carrying<\/strong>, preferably ones that aren\u2019t just solid plastic. These can dig into your fingers and get uncomfortable after a couple of minutes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Seats should be padded and adjustable<\/strong>. If possible, sit in your kayak before purchasing to make sure that you fit well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it\u2019s a sit-in model, <strong>check your leg room<\/strong>. You should be able to brace against the sides of the boat without feeling cramped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot pegs or foot wells <\/strong>are great additions that allow you to brace with your feet and will take some of the stress off of your back when you\u2019re paddling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sit-In Vs. Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The two main kayak designs, there are pros and cons to both of these.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sit-in kayaks<\/strong> have a defined cockpit that protects your legs and lower torso from the elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can be further closed off by wearing a <strong>spray skirt<\/strong> that secures to the perimeter of the cockpit and<strong> prevents waves and rain from flooding it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes them great for cold weather paddlers, although it does limit your leg room and you have less space to move and adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sit-in models tend to place the paddler lower to the water giving you a better center of gravity and more stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This allows them to be <strong>more streamlined without the threat of capsizing<\/strong>, meaning they\u2019re swifter and better at covering long distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While there are many recreational sit-in kayaks, they\u2019re also the preferred model for touring and whitewater paddlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sit-on-top kayaks<\/strong> make up the bulk of recreational and angling kayak models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They offer the luxury of <strong>plenty of leg space and room to move around<\/strong> without fear of getting cramped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To keep the waves off you, the <strong>seats are placed higher above the waterline<\/strong> and many have scupper holes to keep them from flooding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This gives them a higher center of gravity, so in order to match a sit-in kayak\u2019s stability, they have <strong>wider beams <\/strong>to keep you upright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This does make them<strong> less efficient and slower<\/strong> than their counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inflatable or Hard-Sided Recreational Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"486\" data-id=\"1317\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/intex-explorer-K2-having-fun.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1317\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/intex-explorer-K2-having-fun.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/intex-explorer-K2-having-fun-150x104.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"514\" data-id=\"1412\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/sun-dolphin-aruba-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/sun-dolphin-aruba-10.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/sun-dolphin-aruba-10-150x110.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of options in both categories in the world of recreational kayaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inflatables<\/strong> are more durable than their reputation would suggest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They\u2019re made of <strong>tough nylon that is hard to puncture<\/strong>. Most have multiple inflation tubes so even if one does get punctured you can make it back to shore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But they <strong>don\u2019t have the same performance as a hard-sided kayak<\/strong> and their limited storage means they\u2019re usually just day boats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hard-sided kayaks<\/strong> tend to be <strong>higher performing<\/strong> thanks to their rigidity with<strong> better top speed and greater versatility<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are more logistically challenging, however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They must be transported in a truck bed or on top of your vehicle and while an inflatable can live in your hallway closet, a hard-sided boat will need dedicated space in a garage or other covered shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tandem or Single Recreational Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>There are a few tandem kayaks that can be paddled by either solo or tandem<\/strong>, but in most cases, tandems are too big for a solo paddler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tandems can move faster <\/strong>than singles thanks to their longer keel and tend to be more stable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two singles give you more flexibility to paddle on your own if you want, and if you\u2019re planning on doing longer trips, two singles hold more than most tandems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Extra Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" data-id=\"1086\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-pump-300x300.png\" alt=\"included pump\" class=\"wp-image-1086\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-pump-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-pump-768x768.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" data-id=\"1087\" src=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-paddle-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1087\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-paddle-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/included-paddle-768x768.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Recreational kayaks and other entry-level boats often come with some <strong>bonus accessories<\/strong> to sweeten the deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some companies will <strong>include paddles<\/strong> with their boat, especially if the boat is marketed as a beginner boat.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re buying an <strong>inflatable<\/strong>, see if the boat comes with <strong>a pump and carrying case<\/strong>. Since inflatables usually have multiple air tubes, these may require multiple air nozzles to inflate them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re going the hard-sided,<strong> sit-on-top kayak<\/strong> route, see if the boat comes with <strong>scupper holes <\/strong>that keep the boat from swamping and if the <strong>scupper plugs<\/strong> are included for rough water paddling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Recreational Kayak &#8211; Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The recreational kayak field is filled with different makes and models depending on your climate and ambitions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The<strong> Pungo 120 from Wilderness Systems<\/strong> is my favorite. I value versatility in my recreational kayaks and this boat definitely has that with speed, stability, and storage space. It\u2019s big enough to give you a taste of kayaking without breaking the bank.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>Ocean Kayak Tandem from Malibu <\/strong>is another worthwhile choice, especially if you plan on paddling on the ocean or have a family.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What do you think of our list? Do you agree? What boats would you add? Let us know in the comments below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Looking for a cheap but stable and reliable way to get on the water? Few vessels offer easier access at a low price than a recreational kayak. Whether you\u2019re in the market for a sit-in or sit-on-top model or what water conditions you plan on exploring, there\u2019s a kayak that will fit your needs. But [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1317,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_titles_title":"8 Best Recreational Kayaks in %%currentyear%% - Our HONEST Reviews","_seopress_titles_desc":"Avoid getting RIPPED OFF. These recreational kayaks are the ABSOLUTE BEST in their respective category... tried and tested by experts!","_seopress_robots_index":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2318"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2318"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2318\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5826,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2318\/revisions\/5826"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1317"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2318"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2318"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2318"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}