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10 Best Lightweight Kayak 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sea Eagle 437ps PaddleSki Inflatable 1-2 Person Catamaran Boat – Paddle, Motor, Fish, or Sail – 4-in-1 Inflatable Watercraft – Self Bailing (437ps PaddleSki Swivel Seat Package)

The Sea Eagle 437ps PaddleSki is a versatile inflatable catamaran boat that caters to a range of activities including paddling, motoring, fishing, and sailing. Weighing 88 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its category and easy to transport. The construction is robust, made from 1000 denier polyester PVC fabric, making it highly resistant to punctures, tears, and abrasions. This ensures a durable and long-lasting product.

Measuring 172 inches in length and 48 inches in width, it provides ample space for up to two people and can carry up to 855 pounds, making it suitable for camping, fishing, and exploring various water bodies like lakes, rivers, and bays. The boat also features five separate air compartments for added safety and stability, which is a significant advantage. One of its most appealing aspects is its 4-in-1 functionality, allowing users to switch between different modes of water activities with ease.

It can be packed up quickly and fits conveniently in a car trunk or a storage space, making it practical for users with limited storage options. However, its bulk and weight might be a bit cumbersome for some users when transporting it to and from the water. Despite being inflatable, it provides a sturdy platform for standing and casting, which is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. The swivel seat package included enhances comfort and usability. On the downside, the product's price point and the need for additional accessories like a motor (if opting for motoring) could be seen as drawbacks. This inflatable kayak is best suited for those looking for a multipurpose, durable, and portable watercraft.

#2

Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak - Premium Angler Kayak with Lawnchair seat, Granite - 10.5 Ft.

Rating
9.7
Weight
Capacity
Storage and Features

Most important from
375 reviews

Weight
Loading and unloading is quick and easy because it's light enough to handle with one hand.
Capacity
It's surprisingly stable, even with a combined weight of 320 lbs of user, dog, and gear.
Storage and Features
The kayak is laid out wonderfully, ticking every box with ideal rod holder and bungee placements.

The Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak is designed for anglers looking for a stable and comfortable ride. Weighing 67 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport to your favorite fishing spots. The kayak is made from durable high molecular weight polyethylene, ensuring longevity. Measuring 10.5 feet in length and 34.5 inches in width, the kayak offers a good balance between stability and maneuverability.

The wide and flat deck platform is a great feature, allowing you to stand and cast your line with ease, which is essential for fishing enthusiasts. The ERGOBOOST seating system provides enhanced comfort with an adjustable seat, EVA seat pad, and under-seat storage, making long fishing trips more enjoyable. Additionally, the kayak comes with multiple storage options, including front and rear tank wells and two bottle holders, which are practical for storing your gear and keeping essentials within reach.

It also features three flush mount rod holders and two paddle/rod tie-downs, adding convenience for serious anglers. Safety is a priority with its tunnel hull design that offers exceptional stability and additional flotation inside the hull, meeting ABYC standards. With a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds, it can accommodate most users comfortably. However, at 67 pounds, it may still be a bit heavy for some to handle alone. The inclusion of a rudder helps with steering, which can be particularly useful in maintaining direction while fishing. Some users might find the kayak's width a bit too wide for narrow water passages, but it provides much-needed stability for fishing activities. Ideal for both novice and experienced anglers, the Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak offers a solid mix of comfort, stability, and fishing-specific features.

Rating
9.7
Weight
Capacity
Storage and Features

Most important from
375 reviews

Weight
Loading and unloading is quick and easy because it's light enough to handle with one hand.
Capacity
It's surprisingly stable, even with a combined weight of 320 lbs of user, dog, and gear.
Storage and Features
The kayak is laid out wonderfully, ticking every box with ideal rod holder and bungee placements.
#3

Pelican Catch Classic 120 - Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak - Multiple Storage Option - 12 ft - Lightning

Rating
9.1
Storage and Features

Most important from
139 reviews

Storage and Features
Ample storage room and standing space, even with added gear, making it very practical.

The Pelican Catch Classic 120 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that offers a range of features tailored for anglers. At 12 feet long and 34 inches wide, it provides a stable platform for fishing. Constructed from polyethylene (PE), it is durable and suitable for various water conditions. The kayak has a weight of 68 pounds, which is relatively lightweight for its size, making it easier to transport and handle alone, though it may still be cumbersome for some users.

It offers a generous weight limit of 400 pounds, allowing for a single user and ample gear. The kayak includes multiple storage options, such as a front quick-lock hatch and a tank well with bungee cords, making it convenient to carry essential gear. Additional features like 4 flush mount rod holders, gear rails, adjustable footrests, and a molded-in paddle rest enhance its suitability for fishing. Scupper plugs are included to keep you dry, adding to your comfort.

While the kayak has a strong design and useful features, it may not be ideal for those seeking the lightest possible kayak due to its 68-pound weight. Additionally, its larger size may pose storage challenges for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Pelican Catch Classic 120 is a robust and feature-rich option, particularly for fishing enthusiasts.

Rating
9.1
Storage and Features

Most important from
139 reviews

Storage and Features
Ample storage room and standing space, even with added gear, making it very practical.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Kayak

Choosing the right lightweight kayak involves understanding your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're planning to paddle on calm lakes, navigate through rivers, or explore coastal waters, the right kayak can make all the difference in your experience. Lightweight kayaks are particularly appealing for their ease of transport and handling, but there are several key specifications to consider to ensure you select the best fit for your activities and skill level.
WeightThe weight of a kayak is crucial because it affects how easy it is to transport and handle both on and off the water. Lightweight kayaks typically range from 20 to 50 pounds. If you plan to carry your kayak over long distances or load it onto your car by yourself, a lighter model (20-30 pounds) would be ideal. For those who don't mind a bit more heft and want a more stable and durable kayak, models in the 30-50 pound range might be more suitable.
MaterialKayaks are made from various materials, each offering different benefits. Common materials include polyethylene, fiberglass, and composite. Polyethylene is durable and affordable but can be heavier. Fiberglass is lighter and offers better performance but can be more expensive and less durable. Composite materials, such as carbon fiber, are the lightest and offer the best performance but come at a higher cost. Choose a material based on your balance of weight, durability, and budget.
LengthThe length of a kayak affects its speed, stability, and maneuverability. Shorter kayaks (8-10 feet) are more maneuverable and easier to transport, making them great for beginners and those paddling in tight spaces like rivers. Medium-length kayaks (10-12 feet) offer a balance of speed and stability, suitable for recreational use on lakes and calm waters. Longer kayaks (12-16 feet) are faster and track better, ideal for long-distance paddling and open water. Consider where you'll be kayaking most often to determine the best length for you.
WidthThe width of a kayak influences its stability and speed. Wider kayaks (28-34 inches) are more stable and easier to balance, making them great for beginners and those who prioritize stability over speed. Narrower kayaks (22-28 inches) are faster and more efficient in the water but can be less stable, better suited for experienced paddlers. Think about your comfort level and the type of water you'll be navigating to choose the right width.
TypeThere are different types of kayaks designed for various activities, including recreational, touring, and sit-on-top kayaks. Recreational kayaks are versatile and user-friendly, perfect for casual paddling on calm waters. Touring kayaks are designed for longer trips and open water, offering better speed and storage. Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to get in and out of, making them great for warm climates and activities like fishing. Consider your primary use to select the right type of kayak.
CapacityThe capacity of a kayak refers to the maximum weight it can safely carry, including the paddler and any gear. It's important to choose a kayak with a capacity that exceeds your weight plus any additional gear you plan to bring. Lightweight kayaks typically have lower capacities, so ensure the model you choose can accommodate your needs. Overloading a kayak can affect its performance and safety.
Storage and FeaturesConsider the storage options and additional features of the kayak. Some kayaks come with built-in storage compartments, bungee cords, and mounts for accessories like fishing rods or cameras. Think about what you'll need to bring with you and how you'll store it. Features like adjustable seats, footrests, and paddle holders can also enhance your comfort and convenience on the water. Choose a kayak with the features that best match your intended use and personal preferences.

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