Inflatable kayaks have been booming in popularity. They’re cost-effective, fun, and due to modern manufacturing, more reliable than ever before.
However, if you’re just now getting into them, there are a few things you need to know to get the most out of your new inflatable kayak.
We’re going to go over three of those things to help you keep your kayak in good shape, prevent safety issues, and overall, keep the good times rolling.
Let’s get started with 3 things you should know about inflatable kayaks.
1: Proper Storage is Key
Inflatable kayaks are a lot more reliable nowadays, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. They can still suffer punctures, and if that happens, you’re going to be pretty disappointed.
Most people think they’ll spring a leak while paddling around, but the truth is, the majority of punctures happen when your kayak isn’t even in use.
This is due to improper storage. It is not enough to deflate the kayak, pack it up, and chuck it in the garage. Several environmental factors can create hull integrity problems that way.
First, it needs to be vermin-proof. You can do this by storing it in a sealed plastic container. If you leave it in a box or something else that is penetrable, mice, insects, and other pests can get to your kayak and eat a hole through it. If that happens, you’ll get your kayak out to the water, try to air it up, and realize you’ll be hanging out on the bank after all. That, or a small hole will leak air until you find yourself swimming in the middle of the lake.
Storing it around sharp objects is also a bad idea. If there are sharp objects in the container it’s in, and that container gets jostled, you could puncture the kayak.
2: Price Reflects Quality
If you find a super-cheap inflatable kayak, there’s usually a reason it’s that cheap. Now, don’t make that convince you to go out and grab the most expensive thing you see. The return you’ll see gets less substantial as the price goes up. The difference between a $120 kayak and a $500 kayak is enormous, but the difference between a $700 kayak and a $1000 kayak tends to be a bit less impressive.
As a rule of thumb, you should probably choose one that falls into the middle of the pricing spectrum for your first kayak. This will get you a solid kayak, but you won’t be paying a massive premium for little features you might or might not need.
3: Features Matter
You need to buy an inflatable kayak that correlates with the activities you plan on doing. Kayaks are made differently depending on their purpose. If you buy a fishing kayak, it will have extra protection to compensate for the risk of hook punctures. A racing kayak will have a more streamlined design. A general-use kayak will have a good mix of features without specializing in anything.
Keep this in mind when you purchase yours and don’t just focus on the price.
Get on the Water and Have Some Fun
These are just a few basic warnings that will help you get the most out of your inflatable kayak. Don’t let them scare you away from the activity. Inflatables are more accessible than ever before, and they’re more reliable. Buy one today, and get into the world of recreational kayaking.
