Kayaking is a recreational sport that also happens to be a fun activity for family holidays. It is also great for kids. This fun activity boosts their body strength and develops their core muscles. However, you cannot sit in the same one-person kayak with your kid if they are older than 5. So for your kid’s 5th birthday, you must start looking for a kayak for kids.
To make the selection process easier for you, we have reviewed the top 10 kayaks for kids. Let’s weigh their pros and cons one by one.
1. Lifetime Youth 6′ Wave Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 6 feet
- Weight: 18 lb
- Weight Capacity: 130 lb
- Age Limit: 5+
- Colors: Orange and Green
Lifetime offers a full line of recreational kayaks perfect for kids. The Lifetime Youth 6′ Wave Kayak is constructed on an innovative design. It ensures a stable kayaking experience for your kids. It is made from high-density polyethylene; this kayak is durable and long-lasting. It is why it is a Lifetime kayak.
The reverse chine is one of the main features of this kayak that enhances stability. Its unique flat bottom hull design prevents this kayak from flipping over. Moreover, the swim-up design of this kayak makes it easy for the kids to re-enter.
There are more than one footrest molds for different-sized riders. You can rest your paddles on the molded paddle cradles. Kids can easily carry the kayak to and away from the water with the front t-carry handle. Above all, this kayak easily fits on roof racks, truck beds, or the back of a van.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Great maneuverability
- It comes with a paddle
Cons
- Not an ideal kayak for long trips
2. Intex Challenger Kayak Inflatable Set
Quick Specs
- Type: Inflatable Sit-Inside
- Length: 8.9 feet
- Weight: 25 lb
- Weight Capacity: 220.4 lb
- Colors: Green/Blue
Intex Challenger K1 is the best kayak for kids you can get at a low price. It is a cost-effective kayak with almost all premium features. Firstly, it comes with a pump and an aluminum paddle. As it is an inflatable kayak, it will not take much room for storage in your home.
Secondly, it has an inflatable seat. Your kid can sit in it for long hours of kayaking without getting tired. Thirdly, it is constructed from heavy-duty vinyl. This material is puncture-resistant and super durable. Therefore, this kayak will stay in the right shape for years and years.
Additionally, there is a skeg below the base. This skeg helps in multi-directional movements, and it also increases maneuverability.
The cargo net on this Challenger K1 kayak for kids is another excellent feature. Your kid can store extra gear in this net. So, it is a whole package.
Pros
- Takes less room.
- Budget-friendly.
- Specially designed cockpit for maximum comfort.
Cons
- There are no paddle cradles.
3. Old Town Kayak Heron Junior Kayak for Kids
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit-inside.
- Length: 7 feet
- Weight: 26 lb
- Weight Capacity: 115 lb
- Colors: Sunrise color (red, yellow, green)
Old Town is a world-famous company for manufacturing kayaks and canoes. The Heron Junior by Old Town is an ultra-lightweight kayak for kids. Kids can easily maneuver in this kayak due to its lightweight. Its haul is made from a single layer of polyethylene. Therefore, this kayak offers excellent maneuverability. Moreover, this kayak comes with a contoured seat that fits the kid’s body. As a result, your child can sit comfortably in this kayak for long hours.
Pros
- Includes bow and stern carry handles.
- Has a tag-along-tow system.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Does not come with paddles.
4. Best Choice Products Sports 6′ Kids Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 6 feet
- Weight: 18 lb
- Weight Capacity: 121 lb
- Color: Blue
Best Choice Products Sports 6′ is a kayak for kids aged above 4. This kayak weighs 18 lbs only. Therefore, your kid can easily drag and carry it towards the shore.
This kayak is made from HDPE. This material is UV-resistant and color-saving. As a result, your kayak will not fall prey to the process of wear and tear.
Thanks to the multiple molded footrests, your kid can use this kayak for years to come. Additionally, there is a foldable backrest. But if your child does not feel like using it, you can remove it quickly. The backrest makes this kayak even more comfortable.
This kayak also has a skeg wheel. Therefore, your child will have to put in less effort in paddling. And as a result, this kayak will be easy to keep on track.
Pros
- Includes bottle and cup holder.
- Gear storage.
- Abrasive-resistant.
Cons
- The paddle might be too short for some kids.
5. Sun Dolphin Aruba SS 8-Foot Sit-in Kayak for Kids
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit-inside.
- Length: 8 feet
- Weight: 30 lb
- Weight Capacity: 260 lb
- Color: Tangerine
The Aruba SS Kayak by Sun Dolphin is the best kayak for kids and even for adults. This kayak is made from rugged, HDPE material. Just like the other models we mentioned, this kayak has a T-shaped handle at the front. This handle makes kayak transportation easier.
There are paddle holders on each side of this kayak. Therefore, you can paddle easily by keeping the paddles in these indentations. This kayak for kids also includes an adjustable backrest. Your kid can sit comfortably in it for long trips in the lake. In conclusion, it is a very basic and very cheap kayak. As long as you are careful with it, it is an excellent kayak for kids.
Pros
- The backrest is adjustable.
- Space for storing gear.
- Cupholder.
Cons
- Not so stable.
6. Pelican Solo 6 Feet Youth Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 6 feet
- Weight: 23 lb
- Weight Capacity: 100 lb
- Color: Yellow
Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is one of the best kayaks for small paddlers. This kayak is built on a twin-tunnel design. As a result, this kayak allows super maneuverability and ultra stability. The rear deck has a swim-up design so that your kid can easily climb up.
There are paddle holders in this kayak to put your paddles when not in use. This kayak package includes a three-piece paddle. So no need for separate purchase.
The backrest of this kayak is designed ergonomically. Therefore, your kid can sit comfortably in it without feeling fatigued. Moreover, there are multiple molded footrests for added comfort. It is a great kayak that helps cover long distances with minimum effort.
Pros
- Self-bailing design
- Cupholder
- Swim-up rear deck
- Twin tunnel hull design for maneuverability.
Cons
- The paddle included is of poor quality.
7. Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit-on-top.
- Length: 8 feet
- Weight: 18 lb
- Weight Capacity: 400 lb
- Color: Blue
Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak works just like your traditional kayak. However, it is portable and lightweight. This kayak folds up into its integrated backpack with padded shoulder straps. It can then fit inside any car or truck. Moreover, your kid can set up this kayak in just 5 minutes!
This kayak is explicitly designed to allow more comfort. Your kid can easily stretch their legs, arms, and back more quickly. You can keep the food and other gear in the cargo net on the front side. It also includes a cup holder to keep your drinks and bottles in place.
Moreover, you can easily carry it inside and out of the water with the help of a lift handle. The rigid floor, flat bottom, and three-chamber design offer added security.
Pros
- Multiple air chambers that help the kayak stay inflated.
- A comfortable backrest.
- Has a paddle and pump.
Cons
- Not the best-quality paddle.
8. Lifetime Lotus Kayak for Kids
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 8 feet
- Weight: 38 lb
- Weight Capacity: 250 lb
- Color: Blue
The Lifetime Lotus is the best kayak for kids and teens. It includes an adjustable backrest. As a result, you can adjust it depending on the comfort level of your kid.
This kayak has a unique design that increases stability and allows easy tracking. It has a multi-chine hull and twin skegs design for this purpose.
Additionally, there are multiple footrest molds in this kayak. Therefore, different-sized paddlers can use this kayak. It also includes a tank well area for storing gear. Your kids can place their shoes, food, or a backpack in this tank well.
Moreover, this kayak has drainage holes. These self-bailing holes prevent water from pooling inside the kayak.
Pros
- Adjustable backrest
- Easy to carry
- Self-bailing holes
- Includes a paddle
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not great at speed
9. Emotion Sparky Youth Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 6 feet
- Weight: 22 lb
- Weight Capacity: 140 lb
- Age Limit: 5+
- Color: Yellow
The Sparky by Emotion Kayaks is a kid-specific kayak. It is one of the best kayaks for kids, and the reason is its shorter and narrow design. Due to the shorter design, this kayak is very easy for the kids to maneuver in the water. Additionally, There is also a toggle handle in the front for easy maneuvering and transportation. This kayak is great for tracking.
Moreover, the sides of this kayak are also low. As a result, your kids will not face much difficulty while paddling in the river. The lower sides also increase stability.
This kayak has multiple footrest positions, which means your kid can grow with your kayak for years to come.
Pros
- Two scupper holes to prevent water pooling.
- Molded handles for easy transportation.
- Multiple footrests
Cons
- Does not include a paddle.
10. Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Recreational Kayak
Quick Specs
- Type: Sit on top.
- Length: 12 feet
- Weight: 57 lb
- Weight Capacity: 425 lb
- Age Limit: 10+
- Color: Sunrise
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is a versatile kayak designed for two persons. These two people can be your kids or two adults.
This kayak has a seat rests, backrests, front and side straps. So, it is an excellent purchase.
There are also multiple footrests. It means different-aged kids can comfortably sit in this kayak. Additionally, the backrests are adjustable. You can adjust these in four ways.
This kayak is 34 inches wide, so it is highly stable; 2 paddlers can easily mount on it. Therefore, you will feel completely safe on this kayak; it will not flip over. It also has some scupper holes in it. These holes drain water on their own so that you won’t face any inconvenience. So if your kid is afraid to go kayaking alone, you can now go with them on this fantastic 2-person kayak.
Pros
- It has a broad base for stability.
- The seats and backrests are adjustable and comfortable.
- Lifetime warranty on the hull.
Cons
- Not the ideal kayak for speed.
- The legroom is less for the person in the back.
Kayak for Kids: FAQ
What is the recommended age for kayaking for kids?
If your kid is five years old or more, you can allow them to kayak in a lake alone.
Should my kid wear a life jacket while kayaking?
Yes. Make sure your kid always wears a life jacket before sitting in a kayak. Even if your kid has been kayaking for a long and is experienced, they should still wear a life jacket.
How can I choose the best kayak for kids?
If you cannot decide the best kayak for your kid, here is a buying guide for you. This guide will thoroughly explain to you the selection process needed for a kids kayak.
Final thoughts
Based on the pros and cons, Lifetime Youth 6′ Wave Kayak is the best kayak for kids. It is lightweight, durable, and offers excellent stability. And because this kayak comes with a paddle, it is an ideal purchase for your kid. But, if you want to go easy on your wallet and buy something inexpensive, you should buy an Intex Challenger Kayak Inflatable Kayak. This kayak has some premium features that will make your kid’s kayaking experience comfortable and unforgettable.
Plus, if you will be fishing with your kid, check out these 12 must-have kayak fishing accessories.
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