capacity, and allows your lower half a chance to take it easy. Its perfect for those active

The Eddyline Skylark’s sleek shape works well for beginner and experienced kayakers alike; making it a vessel you can grow into as your skills progress. The hull is crafted from durable ABS laminate, which is why it’s so lightweight for its length.

There are water-tight stow compartments at the bow and stern, plus plenty of bungee storage space on deck. The cockpit is roomier than it looks, making it a great pick for taller paddlers.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun on the water. Ideal for families, paddlers on a budget, or those short on storage space, the Explorer K2 Kayak can be set up as a single or tandem kayak with adjustable inflatable seats.

Nearly every element of the kayak is inflatable, and while it takes a few attempts to inflate it to just the right pressure, it’s a nice ride in calm conditions. The kayak comes with two paddles, a carrying bag, and hand pump, but you’ll want to get an electric air pump to speed along the set up.

If you’ll be paddling with a partner, the Perception Tribe 13.5 is ideal for flatwater paddling. This sit-on-top kayak has adjustable framed seats and staggered foot rests, making for a more comfortable ride than standard sit-on-top models. It’s stable, easy to maneuver, and scupper holes keep water from pooling in the seat areas.

There’s enough room to bring along day trip supplies with three bungee-secured stowage sections and two small sealed (but not waterproof) storage compartments.

Foldable kayaks are quickly rising in the ranks of portable kayak popularity. The Oru Beach LT sit-in kayak is made from flexible sheets of plastic that cinch together to form the body of the kayak. It assembles within 5 minutes, though this takes a few attempts to fine-tune. The kayak carries up to 300 pounds and has plenty of storage space for day trips out on calm water.

The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a recreational sit-in kayak that paddles fast, smooth, and straight. It stays stable in slightly choppy conditions. The seat is adjustable, comfortable, and has a mesh panel to help paddlers stay cool in hot or humid conditions.

Details like a dry hatch at the stern, a removable dry box, cup holders, and a place to add an external battery for charging devices make this kayak feel much more modern and practical than the summer camp kayaks you might’ve rented in the past.

Sit-on-top kayaks are typically better choices for new paddlers as they tend to be more stable and don’t take on much water. The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 offers beginner-friendly features and a solid performance.

This kayak paddles straight and efficiently. There are multiple storage compartments, bungee straps, and accessory areas throughout the kayak. Plus, the adjustable seat is on the comfier end of the spectrum.

Old Town’s Loon 106 Angler is a stable sit-in kayak that paddles smoothly in calm conditions. Comfort and practicality take priority in this craft, with a supportive seat and extra padding around the cockpit. Features also include two rod holders, an anchor point, a storage compartment, and bungee straps to secure tackle.

Although fishing is an ideal offline activity, this kayak comes with a work deck complete with a USB port and battery compartment—perfect for charging a phone or action camera.

With email access via your phone so close by, who’s to say you can’t catch a fish on company time?

Best Kayak for Fishing paddleboard with kayak capabilities, ideal for those who enjoy getting out into the water any way they can. At 19 pounds, it’s one of the most portable vessels and is ideal for paddlers with a lack of storage space—it folds into a suitcase-sized backpack when deflated.

Configure the bungy cords, chairs, footrests, and storage compartments any way you like. Add one seat for a solo excursion or two for tandem paddling. It’s neither the fastest nor the most agile vessel on the market, but it’s fun for cruising on flat water.

The Delta 16 is one of the most popular touring kayaks for good reason; it’s an all-rounder that works great in rough conditions. The low profile makes it stable and less susceptible to being pushed off course by the wind. Plenty of storage space both at the stern and bow means it’s great for multi-day trips.

In the cockpit, there’s room to stretch out with neoprene padding for comfort around the knees. There’s an option to add a skeg or retractable rudder, though most paddlers find the Delta 16 tracks fine in choppy waters without it.

For a low-impact leg workout, peddle instead of paddle the Hobie Mirage Revolution 13. This kayak uses a pedal-powered propulsion system, freeing your hands for fishing, photography, or, if you’re so inclined, cold drinks and snacks.

The latest edition of this kayak now has reverse pedal power—an upgrade from past models. Two rod holders, three hatches, and an option to swap to paddle power make it one versatile kayak. There’s an option to add a bimini for sun protection or a sail for wind-powered propulsion (at extra cost).

The Eddyline Whisper CL is a two-person kayak that’s ultra-stable in the water. The seats are more comfortable than many of its competitors, and each seat has access to bungee storage on deck. There’s a storage compartment on the bow and stern, though it might not be enough for two people on a multi-day trip.

The deep keel keeps the kayak tracking straight. Made from durable ABS plastic, the hull is lightweight yet able to handle some bumps against rock and reef.