Consider a Lightweight Kayak
Lightweight kayaks offer several compelling advantages that may appeal to you, whether you're a beginner or seasoned paddler
Here's a SENDY breakdown of the key benefits:
Advantages of Lightweight (vs hard-shell) Kayaks
Convenient Storage
Compact Folding Options: Origami-style kayaks like the Oru can fit in closets or under beds.
Inflatables: some models pack down to backpack size, perfect for apartments, RVs, or tiny homes.
Travel-Friendly
Flying or hiking with inflatable and folding kayaks is ideal for air travel or backcountry paddling.
No Roof Rack Needed: many fit in your trunk or backseat.
Quick Setup
Fast Assembly: folding and inflatable kayaks can often be set up in under 10 minutes!
Spontaneous Trips: their convenience makes it easier to say “yes” to a last-minute lake or river outing.
Lower Risk of Injury
Less Strain: reduced weight puts less stress on your back, shoulders, and knees — especially helpful for older paddlers or anyone with mobility limitations.
Eco-Friendly Exploration
Access Remote Waters: lightweight kayaks let you reach places motorized boats can’t, with a lighter environmental footprint.
Good Entry-Level Options
More Approachable for Beginners: many lightweight kayaks are stable and easy to maneuver, which helps build confidence.
A Few Trade-Offs to Consider
To give a complete picture, here are some common limitations of ultralight kayaks:
They’re less durable than hard-shells (especially in rocky or whitewater conditions)
There are performance trade-offs: shorter and lighter kayaks may not track as well in wind or waves
Weight limits: some ultralight models have a lower carrying capacity
Searching for the lightest kayaks available?
These options combine portability, performance, and ease of use, offering convenience without compromising quality.
Top Lightweight Kayaks
Oru Kayak Inlet – 20 lbs
Starter Bundle
Oru Kayak Lake – 18 lbs
Advanced Elements Packlite – 4 lbs
Aquaglide Cirrus Ultralight 110 – 14 lbs 12
Eddyline Sky 10 – 32 lbs
Considerations When Choosing a Lightweight Kayak
Portability: if you need to carry your kayak over long distances or have limited storage, consider foldable or inflatable models.
Durability: hard-shell kayaks generally offer more durability, but modern inflatables and foldables have improved significantly in this area, so check them out!
Performance: hard-shell kayaks typically provide better tracking and speed, while inflatables offer more flexibility and ease of transport.
Setup Time: inflatable and foldable kayaks require setup, so consider how much time you're willing to spend assembling your kayak.
